(FERC PROJECT
NO. 1494)
DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
AMENDMENT TO LICENSE – SHORELINE
MANAGEMENT PLAN
DECEMBER 2006
Prepared by:
![]()
(FERC PROJECT NO. 1494)
DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
AMENDMENT TO LICENSE – SHORELINE
MANAGEMENT PLAN
DECEMBER 2006
Prepared by:
![]()
(FERC PROJECT NO. 1494)
DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
AMENDMENT TO LICENSE - SHORELINE
MANAGEMENT PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS LIST
1.0...... Proposed
action and PURPOSE OF ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
2.0...... AGENCY
CONSULTATION AND PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
2.1 Agency/Stakeholder Consultation
4.0...... environmental
analysis
4.1.3 Effects of Implementing the SMP
4.2.1.1 Temperature and Dissolved Oxygen
4.2.1.4 Sediments and Heavy Metals
Contamination
4.2.2.2 Seasonal Target Lake Elevations
4.2.3 Effects of Implementing the SMP
4.3 Fish, Wildlife and Botanical
4.3.1 Fish and Aquatic Species
4.3.2.3 Reptiles and Amphibians
4.3.5 Threatened and Endangered Species
4.3.6 Effects of Implementing the SMP
4.4 Historical and Archaeological
4.4.1.1 Known Cultural Properties
4.4.2.1 Known Historic Properties
4.4.3 Effects of Implementing the SMP
4.5.1 Recreation Sites and Public Access
4.5.4 Effects of Implementing the SMP
4.6.3 Effects of Implementing the SMP
4.7 Additional Shoreline Management
Policies
4.7.1 Habitable Structures Policy
4.7.2 Vegetation Management and Shoreline
Stabilization Policies
4.7.4 Other Policies and Provisions
4.8 Agency Consultation and
Enforcement
4.9 SMP Monitoring and Amendment
4.10.3 Effects of Implementing the SMP
4.11.1 Lands of Tribal Significance
4.11.2 Effects of Implementing the SMP
LIST OF TABLES
Table
5.2.1-1:....... Dissolved
Oxygen and Temperature Criteria to Protect Fish and Wildlife
Table
5.2.2-1:....... Summary
of Hydraulic Characteristics of Grand Lake
Table
5.3.4-1:....... Wetland
Cover Types (in acres) by Elevation Zone at Grand Lake,
Oklahoma
Table
5.6.1-1:....... Land
Uses Within the Project Boundary
Table
5.6.3-1:....... Allowable
Commercial Uses Within Shoreline Management
Classifications
Table
5.6.3-2:....... Allowable
Residential Uses Within Shoreline Management
Classifications
Table
5.10.2-1: Employment
by Industry in Craig, Delaware, Mayes and Ottawa
Counties, 2000a
Table
5.3.3-1:....... Botanical
Species Typical of the Grand Lake Vicinity
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure
3.2-1:... Location
Map for the Pensacola Hydroelectric Project
Figure 3.2-2:... Project
Boundary Map for the Pensacola Hydroelectric Project
Figure 5.2-1:... Location
of Oklahoma PDES Sites in the Vicinity of Grand Lake
Figure 5.2-1:... Annual
Mean Streamflow at Grand River near Langley, OK
Figure 5.3-1:... Wetlands
Mapping for Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees
Figure 5.5-1:... Public
Recreation Sites at Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees
Figure 5.6-1:... Land
Use Within the Project Boundary
Figure 5.6-2:... Vegetation
Patterns around Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees
LIST OF
APPENDICES
Appendix __: Draft ER Comments
Appendix __: Grand
Appendix __: GRDA’s
Existing Permit Program
(FERC
PROJECT NO. 1494)
DRAFT
ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
AMENDMENT
TO LICENSE - SHORELINE MANAGEMENT PLAN
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS LIST
BMP Best
Management Practice
BOD Biological
Oxygen Demand
cfs Cubic
feet per second
Commission
or FERC Federal
Energy Regulatory Commission
DO Dissolved
oxygen
EPA Environmental
Protection Agency
ER Environmental
Report
ESA Endangered
Species Act
GIS Geographic
Information System
GRDA
kW Kilowatts
Licensee
mg/L Milligrams
per liter
msl Mean
sea level
MW Megawatt
National Register
NGOs Non-Governmental
Organizations
NGVD National
Geodetic Vertical Datum
NHPA National
Historic Preservation Act
NRHP National
Register of Historic Places
NWS National
Weather Service
oF Degrees
Fahrenheit
OK
OKCC
OKDEQ Oklahoma
Department of Environmental Quality
OKDNR Oklahoma
Department of Natural Resources
OKDOC Oklahoma
Department of Commerce
OKDWC Oklahoma
Department of Wildlife Conservation
OKSU
OKTRD
OKWRB
PD
PDES 27/96
PWC Personal
Water Craft [e.g. jet skis]
RM River
Mile, numbered from mouth to source
SHPO State
Historic Preservation Office
SMC Shoreline
Management Classification
SMP Shoreline
Management Plan
Stakeholders Federal
and state resource agencies, NGOs, and other interested parties
TDS 28/96
TMDL Total
Maximum Daily Load
TNC The
Nature Conservancy
USACE
USFWS
USGS
(FERC PROJECT NO. 1494)
DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
AMENDMENT TO LICENSE - SHORELINE
MANAGEMENT PLAN
af Acre-foot, the amount of water needed to cover one acre to a depth of one foot.
APE Area of Potential Effect as pertaining to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.
base flow Sustained, low flow in a stream; ground-water discharge is the source of base flow in most places.
bedload Sediment that moves on or near the streambed and is in almost continuous contact with the bed.
bedrock General term for consolidated (solid) rock that underlies soils or other unconsolidated material.
benthic invertebrates Insects, mollusks, crustaceans, worms, and other organisms without a backbone that live in, on, or near the bottom of lakes, streams, or oceans.
benthic Refers to plants or animals that live on the bottom of lakes, streams, or oceans.
confluence The flowing together of two or more streams; the place where a tributary joins the main stream.
cubic foot per second Rate of water discharge representing a volume of 1 cubic foot passing a given point during 1 second, equivalent to approximately 7.48 gallons per second or 448.8 gallons per minute or 0.02832 cubic meter per second.
cumulative impact The impact on the environment that results from the incremental impact of the action when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions. Cumulative impacts can result from individually minor but collectively significant actions taking place over a period of time.
direct effect Direct effects are caused by the action and occur at the same time and place.
drawdown The difference between the water level in a reservoir before pumping and the water level in the reservoir during pumping. Also, the act of discharging of water to lower reservoir storage levels.
flashboards Removable boards installed seasonally in reservoir spillways to temporarily increase storage capacity.
flood plain The relatively level area of land bordering a stream channel and inundated during moderate to severe floods.
indirect effects Indirect effects are caused by the action and are later in time or farther removed in distance, but are still reasonably foreseeable. Indirect effects may include growth-inducing effects and other effects related to induced changes in the pattern of land use, population density or growth rate, and related effects on air and water and other natural systems, including ecosystems.
instream use Water use taking place within the stream channel for such purposes as hydroelectric power generation, navigation, water-quality improvement, fish propagation, and recreation. Sometimes called nonwithdrawal use or in-channel use.
license application Application for a new license; submitted to FERC no less than two years in advance of expiration of an existing license.
mean discharge The arithmetic mean of individual daily mean discharges during a specific period, usually daily, monthly, or annually.
mouth The place where a stream discharges to a larger stream, a lake, or the sea.
noncontact water recreation Recreational activities, such as fishing or boating that does not include direct contact with the water.
Nonpoint source A pollution source that cannot be defined as originating from discrete points such as pipe discharge. Areas of fertilizer and pesticide applications, atmospheric deposition, manure, and natural inputs from plants and trees are types of nonpoint source pollution.
normal operating capacity The maximum MW output of a generator or group of generators under normal maximum head and flow conditions.
peaking Operation of generating facilities to meet maximum instantaneous electrical demands.
penstock An inclined pressurized pipe through which water flows from a forebay or tunnel to the powerhouse turbine.
point source A source at a discrete location such as a discharge pipe, drainage ditch, tunnel, well, concentrated livestock operation, or floating craft.
Project Area Project Area is defined as the zone of potential, reasonably direct Project impacts, typically extending 0 to 100 feet from the Project Boundary.
Project Boundary The area defined in the license issued by FERC for the Project as needed for Project operations. For the Pensacola Project, the real boundary is described by a metes and bounds description. For the purposes of this ER, elevation 750 feet PD is identified as the approximate Project Boundary.
Project Drainage Basin The Project’s Grand (
Project Region The area around the
Project at the County level to include
Project roads Roads within Project Boundary primarily used for Project purposes excluding Federal, state, county, and non-Licensee private roads.
Project Vicinity The area extending to about five miles from the Project Boundary.
Project viewshed The area from which the Project is visible. The land base from which the Project may be seen.
Project
ramping The act of increasing or decreasing stream flows from a powerhouse, dam or division structure.
RD Recreation Day, which equals a visit by a person to a Project development for recreation purposes during any portion of a 24-hour period.
recreation day Each visit by a person to a development for recreational purposes during any portion of a 24 hour period.
relicensing The process of acquiring a new FERC license for an existing hydroelectric project upon expiration of the existing FERC license.
Reservoir Useable Capacity A volume measurement of the amount of water that can be stored for generation, down to a minimum level.
RM River mile as measured along the river course, measured from the headwaters of the river to its mouth.
RT&E Species Rare, threatened, endangered and special status species, which for purposes of this PAD is defined to include (1) all species (plant and animal) listed, proposed for listing, or candidates for listing under the Federal and state Endangered Species Acts and the California Native Plant Protection Act, and (2) all species (plant and animal) listed by the USFS as sensitive, special status or watch list.
run-of-river A hydroelectric project that uses the flow of a stream with little or no reservoir capacity for storing water.
spillway A passage for releasing surplus water from a reservoir or canal.
tailrace Channel through which water is discharged from the powerhouse turbines.
trash rack A mechanism, found on a dam or intake structure, which clears the water of debris before the water passes through the structure.
tributary A river or stream flowing into a larger river, stream or lake.
turbine A machine
that converts the energy of a stream of water into the mechanical energy of
rotation. This energy is then used to
turn an electrical generator or other device.
Also called a “water wheel”.
(FERC PROJECT NO. 1494)
DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
AMENDMENT TO LICENSE - SHORELINE
MANAGEMENT PLAN
Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA), licensee for the Pensacola
Project (Project) (FERC No. 1494), filed a long-term recreation plan for the
Project with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC or Commission) on
GRDA is proposing to implement a SMP for the Pensacola Project. The proposed SMP includes the following:
1) An inventory of existing shoreline resources;
2) A description of GRDA’s existing permitting system;
3) Shoreline management guidelines for Project lands;
4) A process for the evaluating new shoreline uses under the SMP;
5) Monitoring and enforcement strategies;
6) An amendment process; and
7) Land use classifications and allowable uses of the shoreline.
In addition to the SMP, GRDA is filing a Revised
Recreation Management Plan (RMP) and a Carrying Capacity Study (CCS) of
The purpose of this Draft ER is to provide a summary of
the existing resources at the Project and to assess the effects of implementing
the SMP on those resources.
Specifically, this Draft ER addresses the 503 miles of shoreline[1] for
In preparing the SMP, GRDA consulted with
Federal, state, and local government agencies, non-governmental organizations
(NGOs), and members of the public. Federal
and state agencies included the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE),
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), Oklahoma Conservation Commission
(OKCC), Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (OKDEQ), Oklahoma Tourism
and Recreation Department (OKTRD), Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OKWRB), the Oklahoma
Department of Wildlife Conservation (OKDWC), the Oklahoma State Historic
Preservation Office (SHPO) and the Oklahoma Archaeological Survey (OAS).
GRDA held three public Shoreline Management Issues Workshops in October 2005 to solicit information from residents’ and visitors’ about issues affecting shoreline development, water quality, recreation, and lake management. From those meetings, a Stakeholder Working Group was formed to provide input on the components of the SMP. The members of the Stakeholder Working Group included individual homeowners, homeowners associations, commercial interests and agency personnel. Details regarding the Stakeholder Working Groups may be found in the SMP. The initial Stakeholder Working Group meeting was held in December 2005 in which three smaller working groups were formed: Allowable Uses, Land Use Classifications, and Permitting. The Allowable Uses and Land Use Classifications working groups met five times in 2006; the Permitting working group met four times in 2006. The groups provided their views of the issues and potential management strategies for the SMP. They also provided valuable information regarding the lakes resources from their perspective as local residents or regular users of the Project.
On
|
AGENCY/STAKEHOLDER |
DATE FILED |
|
INSERT
LIST OF AGENCIES |
INSERT
DATES FILED |
|
|
|
NOTE TO STAKEHOLDERS: THIS SECTION WILL BE COMPLETED
AFTER WE RECEIVE COMMENTS ON THE DECEMBER DRAFT SMP & ER.
A summary of comments on the Draft ER is found in Appendix __, along with GRDA’s response to those comments. Comments received on the Draft SMP that affected the Draft ER are also summarized in Appendix __. As appropriate, changes were made throughout the Draft ER to address those comments.
The Pensacola Project is located on the
Grand River, a tributary of the Arkansas River, and begins as the
After passing Pensacola Dam, the river flows
south for approximately 150 miles to its confluence with the Arkansas River near
Normal daily temperatures in the Project Vicinity
average approximately 57°F and range from 21°F in January to 91°F in July and
August. Total annual rainfall in the Project
Vicinity is approximately 44 inches with an average snowfall of approximately 6
inches at the project (NWS, 2005).
Land use in the
Construction on the Pensacola Project, which was the first
hydroelectric project in
The Project consists of a dam, two auxiliary spillways,
an intake structure, a powerhouse containing six turbine generator units, and
appurtenant equipment and facilities.
The Project also includes
The existing Pensacola Project consists of:
1. A main dam, which has a maximum height of 147 feet, and is comprised of (a) a 53.5 foot long non-overflow abutment section on the west end, (b) a 4,284 foot long multiple-arch section with a crest elevation of 757 feet PD, (c) an 861 foot long main spillway section, which has a crest elevation of 730 feet PD and is controlled by 21 Taintor gates each 36 feet long by 25 feet high, (d) a 451 foot long non-overflow gravity section on the east end, and (e) a 300 foot long non-overflow abutment section consisting of a concrete core wall;
2. Two auxiliary spillways with approximate lengths of 464 feet and 422 feet about 1.0 mile east of the main dam, which consist of concrete gravity overflow type spillways with crest elevations of 740 feet PD controlled by a total of 21 Taintor gates each 37 feet long by 15 feet high;
3. Grand Lake, which has a surface area of 46,500 acres and a storage volume of 1,680,000 acre-feet at the maximum power pool of 745 feet PD;
4. A 27-foot by 246 foot intake structure;
5. A powerhouse with dimensions of 87.75 feet by 279.0 feet, located immediately downstream of the western end of the dam, which contains seven turbine-generator units with a total nameplate capacity of 86,900 kilowatts (kW); and,
6. Appurtenant equipment and facilities.
The existing Project Boundary is defined by metes and bounds, but generally follows the 750 foot PD contour elevation[3]. The Project extends approximately from just downstream of the Pensacola Dam (RM 77) to RM 143. GRDA also owns title to some lands adjacent to the Project Boundary (see Figure 3.2-2).
The GRDA operates the Project according to its existing
operating rule curve, approved by a
|
PERIOD |
RESERVOIR ELEVATION |
|
May 1 – May 31 |
Spring fill - Raise elevation from 742 to 744
feet PD |
|
Jun 1 – Jul 31 |
Elevation 744 feet PD |
|
Aug 1 – Aug 15 |
First summer drawdown - Lower elevation from
744 to 743 feet PD |
|
Aug 16 – Aug 31 |
Second summer drawdown - Lower elevation from
743 to 741 feet PD |
|
Sep 1 – Oct 15 |
Elevation at 741 feet PD |
|
Oct 16 – Oct 31 |
Fall fill - Raise elevation from 741 to 742
feet PD |
|
Nov 1 – Apr 30 |
Elevation at 742 feet PD |
GRDA shares operations with the USACE as part of a basin wide system of flood control and navigation projects. At the Pensacola Project, GRDA controls all operations below elevation 745 feet, and USACE controls operations (flood storage) above 745 feet. Flood storage at the Project is provided between elevations 745 and 755 feet PD. Under the terms of the 1992 Letter of Understanding and Water Control Agreement between the USACE and GRDA, the USACE directs the water releases from the dam whenever the reservoir elevation is within the limits of the flood pool (i.e., 745-755 feet PD) (USACE 1992).
In this section, each resource
potentially affected by implementing GRDA’s proposed SMP is first described by
its existing conditions and then analyzed to disclose any effects—beneficial or
adverse—that may occur on or to that resource as a result of the measures
contained in the SMP.
The Project Vicinity (i.e., the area extending to about five miles from the Project Boundary) contains several unique geologic features and supports several industrial interests associated with mineral extraction. As mentioned in Section 3.1, coal, clay, lead, zinc, lime, and petroleum and natural gas are mined in the basin.
The Project is located in northeastern
The southern and eastern portions of the Project Vicinity (the lower portion of the reservoir) contain deep ravines and narrow valleys separated by broad, gently rolling uplands. The shorelines of the lower portions of the reservoir are mostly limestone bluffs and steep rocky beaches (FERC, 1991; GRDA, 2004).
The northern and western portions of the Project Vicinity lie in the Prairie Plains, which are typified by gently rolling plains with occasional hills and ridges. The shorelines in these portions of the reservoir generally have gentler slopes. Wetlands are confined to inlets and coves along the numerous small tributaries that enter the reservoir, and are more abundant along the upper, shallower reaches of the reservoir. Extensive cave systems occur in some of the limestone formations along the reservoir (FERC, 1991; GRDA, 2004)
The shores of
Substantial shoreline erosion has occurred in certain
areas of the
Implementing the SMP would likely improve shoreline protection and stability due to the shoreline management classification (SMC) system and the restrictions and regulations identified in the SMP (see Section 1.2).
The SMP contains measures that would protect geologic features such as steep slopes, cliffs, caves, wetlands and other sensitive areas from long term development through its SMC system. Areas of steep slopes, identified as slopes of greater than 100 percent and which are at least 20 feet in height, as well as wetlands and shallow areas would be classified as “Sensitive Resources”. As such, the SMP affords protection from unnecessary development through GRDA’s policy to discourage and/or limit development proposals for lands within this classification. Also, the permit program and SMP require a potential permittee to include with their permit application, extensive additional application support and justification of development in the sensitive resource classification, along with appropriate protection, mitigation and enhancement measures. These procedures provide a mechanism to ensure that if GRDA determines that development could occur in the sensitive resource area, a permittee would be required to mitigate adverse impacts.
The SMP contains measures that promote retention and maintenance of shoreline vegetation to stabilize shorelines and to reduce erosion and runoff of soils. Measures include requiring landowners to obtain permits to modify the existing shoreline vegetation or to remove vegetation to allow reasonable and safe access paths to docks and/or shoreline.
Construction that is permitted on Project lands could cause temporary disturbance to soils and could potentially cause sediments or silt to be released downstream; however, permits require the use of control measures during construction. GRDA would require erosion and sedimentation control plans and the proper permits (i.e., USACE permits, etc) to ensure that any construction impacts are minimized.
The SMP supports and promotes applications for consolidated shoreline uses (e.g., community docks). The SMP also supports the voluntary use of Best Management Practices (BMPs) for purposes of stabilizing soils during construction and using vegetation to minimize erosion and slope failure on or from non-Project lands.
Point sources of pollution into the Grand Lake watershed
include nutrient input from residential development around the Lake, from 22
wastewater treatment plants in the watershed in Oklahoma plus more in portions
of the watershed in Arkansas, Kansas, and Missouri, and acidic mine drainage
with associated heavy metal contaminants from several sources in the Neosho and
Spring River watersheds. Much of the
nonpoint source pollution in the watershed comes from agricultural activities,
lakeside recreation, and possible trace metal contamination in the surface
runoff from mining operations (OKWRB and OKSU, 1995; OK Office of the Secretary
of the Environment, 2004). Figure 5.2-1
shows the location of all PDES sites near
Figure 5.2-1: Location of
(Source:
Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality)

Various portions of the
State standards have been established for Warm Water Aquatic Communities and are provided in Table 5.2.1-1.
Table 5.2.1-1: Dissolved Oxygen and Temperature Criteria to Protect Fish and Wildlife
|
FISHERY
CLASS |
DATES
APPLICABLE |
MINIMUM
D.O. CRITERIA (mg/L) |
SEASONAL
TEMP (C) |
|
Early Life Stages |
04/01
- 06/15 |
6.0a |
25b |
|
Other Life Stages - Summer Conditions |
06/16
- 10/15 |
5.01 |
32 |
|
Other Life Stages - Winter Conditions |
10/16
- 03/31 |
5 |
18 |
a Because of
natural diurnal dissolved oxygen fluctuation, a 1.0 mg/l dissolved oxygen
concentration deficit shall be allowed for not more than eight (8) hours during
any twenty-four (24) hour period.
b Discharge
limits necessary to meet summer conditions will apply from June 1 of each year.
However, where discharge limits based on Early Life Stage (spring) conditions
are more restrictive, those limits may be extended to July 1.
Surface temperatures at
Locations in the downstream portions of the Lake display
stronger stratification than locations in the upstream portions of the
From November 2003 through August 2004, the Beneficial Use
Monitoring Program (OKWRB, 2004) sampled
Another result from agricultural practices in the watershed is increased sedimentation with stormwater runoff. Runoff containing high concentrations of sediments also results from construction sites and paved or unpaved roads. Sediments present in the upstream portion of the reservoir additionally contain heavy metals including lead, zinc and cadmium.
A primary source of heavy metals in the upstream part of the
reservoir is abandoned mines. Mining
operations in the watershed ceased in the 1970s and mines were abandoned. Over time, the mines filled with water
resulting in low pH water with associated heavy metals flowing into tributaries
of
As a result of mine drainage, heavy metals are now bound to
sediments in the upper portion of the reservoir. No metal toxicity has been found in the water
column, but fish species collected downstream of
In a study conducted during the recreational season of May
through September of 2004, five locations in
Table 5.2.2-1: Summary of Hydraulic Characteristics of
(OKWRB and OKSU, 1995)
|
SOURCE |
DRAINAGE
AREA |
DISCHARGE
CFS |
|
|
5,879 |
3,652 |
|
|
2,510 |
2,050 |
|
|
872 |
803 |
|
Sum of Above |
9,258 |
6,505 |
|
Below Dam |
10,298 |
7,208 |
A USGS gage (No. 07190500) is located near
Figure 5.2-1: Annual Mean Streamflow at Grand River near Langley, OK
Data recorded at the
Table 5.2.2-2: Mean Monthly Streamflow Recorded at the Grand River Gauge (No.
07190500) near
|
MONTH |
MEAN
MONTHLY STREAMFLOW
(CFS) |
|
January |
4,844 |
|
February |
6,087 |
|
March |
8,899 |
|
April |
11,120 |
|
May |
12,070 |
|
June |
11,130 |
|
July |
8,909 |
|
August |
4,354 |
|
September |
4,866 |
|
October |
5,939 |
|
November |
6,673 |
|
December |
5,620 |
The Project generally is operated in load following mode,
with generation dependent on the availability of water and the demand for
power. The Project has six turbines
having a total hydraulic capacity of 10,200 cfs. Project discharge varies based on inflows and
power demands. There is no FERC
requirement for minimum flow, although when the Project is not generating, a
downstream gage records a base flow of approximately 25 cfs. The base flow is likely due to a combination
of leakage from the Project and from a small tributary upstream from the gage.
The
Project is currently operated to meet seasonal
Water in
The SMP includes several actions that, if implemented, may
affect the water quality of
Erosion of the shoreline may contribute to high sediment
levels in the
As part of the SMP, GRDA outlines a series of guidelines, training requirements, and permit processes for the Project lands to reduce erosion of the shoreline. The Vegetation Management guidelines would allow GRDA to regulate use of heavy equipment to remove large shoreline debris like logs or driftwood through permits. Footpaths providing access to the shore could be cleared and maintained, but must be conformed to SMP specifications and be sited so that disturbance of trees and other vegetation is minimized. GRDA would also encourage stabilization of banks using native vegetation or natural materials to deflect wave action and stabilize the shoreline as part of the SMP.
GRDA would require that anyone working with debris
management or vegetation removal acquire proper training so that water quality
standards are met. For example, within
two years of the issuance of the SMP, any contractor performing dredging
activities would need to acquire training of environmental issues relating to
dredging in order to work in
Because some sediment in the reservoir contains
contaminants, the SMP would require that dredging over 250 cubic feet of
material requires testing for heavy metals, PCBs and other contaminants. This requirement as well as mandating
training of contractors would likely decrease the likelihood of sediment-bound
contaminants entering the
GRDA addresses point-source nutrient load to
Water Quantity
While the SMP would limit the location of commercial
water withdrawals to zones classified for “Commercial Uses”, the SMP does not specifically
limit or encourage water withdrawals.
The SMP would not affect Project operations or seasonal
Water Use
The SMP would not affect Project operations or seasonal
The fish community in
Another species of particular interest is the paddlefish,
a pelagic, filter-feeder, planktivore, that makes long spawning migrations up
river to find clean gravel bars to deposit eggs (OKDWC, 2005b). The numbers of paddlefish migrating
up the Grand/Neosho River in the springtime make this river system one of the
top five paddlefish fisheries in the nation (OKDWC, 2005a). Special regulations in
Another filter-feeding species recently discovered in
Current management of this fishery is limited to creating
juvenile habitat by flooding mudflats seeded with Japanese millet,
stocking/regulation of fishery, and lake level manipulation (GRDA 2003c).
The millet-seeding program has low annual success and only seasonal
benefits (OKWRB, 2005). On going
research into the feasibility of establishing aquatic plants in the littoral
zone of
Current fishing regulations are designed to increase the
total abundance and quality size of crappie and bass. OKDWC has never stocked crappie in the
The rule curve for
Currently, GRDA has no plan to contain or manage the risk of zebra mussel. Zebra mussels can reproduce and colonize new areas very quickly. A population of zebra mussels would likely out compete filter feeding fish (i.e. paddlefish, herring, and shad) and disrupt the natural food chain.
Raptors, such as barred owl, red-tailed hawk, and
red-shouldered hawk occur in both upland and bottomland forests. Song birds of the wooded lots include
tanagers, nuthatches, warblers, and woodpeckers typical of the eastern
deciduous forests. Grassland birds
present in the prairie habitat include horned lark, grasshopper sparrow,
meadowlark, dickcissel, and bobolink.
Predatory birds in the grasslands consisted of short-eared owl, northern
harrier, and rough-legged hawk. Bald
eagles over-winter at
White-tailed deer, striped skunk, raccoon, fox squirrel,
A variety of frogs, toads, salamanders, lizards, turtles,
and snakes comprise the local herpetofauna.
The amphibians include species such as the American toad, spadefoot
toad, tree frogs, narrow-mouthed. The
turtle community includes snapping turtles, mud turtles, softshell turtles, and
a diversity of slider, map, and box turtles.
With the exception of the box turtles, most of the turtle community is
highly aquatic. Representative lizard
species include the western slender glass lizard, collard lizard,
Currently, waterfowl production and waterfowl food availability
are primary concerns of resource managers.
Article 411 of the Project license provided a plan to annually seed
1,000 acres of mudflats along
In the extreme
northern portion of project, primarily the
Botanical species
typical of the
Table 5.3.4-1: Wetland Cover Types (in acres) by Elevation
Zone at
|
|
ELEVATION ZONES |
|
||
|
WETLAND COVER
TYPES |
735-742a |
742-755 |
755+b |
Totals |
|
Palustrine Forested Wetlandsc |
1,720 |
5,555 |
4,374 |
11,649 |
|
Emergent Wetlands |
34 |
145 |
55 |
234 |
|
Scrub/Shrub Wetlands |
194 |
268 |
64 |
526 |
|
Mudflats |
4,994 |
645 |
23 |
5,662 |
|
Ponded Water |
89 |
70 |
88 |
247 |
|
Totals |
7,031 |
6,683 |
4,604 |
18,318 |
|
Steep Rocky Shoreline (miles)d |
138 |
|
|
|
(Source: Adapted from Erickson and Leslie, 1988)
a Elevations
735 to 742 are included because the study was conducted under the pre-1992 rule
curve when these elevations were occasionally exposed. Since then, many of these areas have become
permanently inundated.
b To
1/4 mile from 755 foot PD elevation.
c Referred
to as Bottomland or
d A
linear measurement (miles) due to zone being too narrow to accurately digitize.
The Ozark cavefish (Amblyosis rosae), Neosho madtom
(Noturus placidus), and bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) are documented as
occurring in the Project Vicinity and are listed as threatened under the Endangered
Species Act (ESA) and by the State of Oklahoma.
The gray bat (Myotis grisescens), which is state- and federally-listed
as endangered, also occurs in the Project Vicinity. According to the Oklahoma Biological
Inventory (2006), no other state-listed species are documented as occurring in
the Project Vicinity or within the Project Area.
Ozark cavefish
This Ozark cavefish is sightless cave obligate that requires
clean-flowing, permanently dark cave streams, often with rubble bottom
(Masters, 1993). A commensal association
exists between this species and the federally-endangered gray bat, as there is
some evidence that Ozark cavefish feed directly on gray bat guano (USFWS,
1989). The Ozark cavefish is found in
pools in two caves,
The Neosho madtom is endemic to the Neosho (Grand) River
system in
Gray bat
Gray bats inhabit limestone karst areas of the southeastern
Bald Eagle
Bald eagles are found throughout
Aquatic Resources
The SMP would potentially increase protection to both
water quality and fish habitat at
Fish habitat would likely be maintained along the shores
where Sensitive Areas are located. These
Sensitive Areas would provide overhead cover for both juvenile and adult
fish. In addition, aquatic vegetation would
likely establish along the shoreline and provide cover and macroinvertebrate
fish forage. Dead trees that fall into
The SMP is designed to regulate construction activities
at
Shoreline debris management is designed to limit soil disturbance and erosion by regulating the use of heavy equipment to remove driftwood and debris from the Project shoreline.
Ozark Cavefish
Since neither of the caves where Ozark Cavefish occur are within the Project Area, implementation of the proposed SMP would likely result in no effect on this species.
Due to the Neosho Madtom’s intolerance of impounded conditions, implementation of the proposed SMP in areas surrounding the reservoir would likely have no effect on this species.
Gray Bat
Gray bats are known to use two caves in the Project Vicinity,
Bald Eagle
While bald eagles are not known to nest in the Project Vicinity,
the
Botanical
Palustrine wetlands[4] represent approximately 83%[5] of total Project wetlands; thus designation of these areas as “sensitive resources” would significantly enhance protection for wetlands in the Project Area. Further, maintenance by GRDA’s Office of Ecosystem Management of a current GIS database showing all SMCs and other significant resources, including wetlands, would likely increase public awareness of wetlands surrounding the Project and foster protective land use decisions by GRDA during the shoreline permitting process.
Prehistoric peoples, Native Americans in the historic
period, and Euro-American settlers in the modern period leading up to
Archaeologists have identified evidence for human
occupation in what is now
In the early sixteenth century, there were at least three
Native American language stocks suggesting a growing complexity and diversity
to the population. The Project Vicinity
was occupied primarily by Quapaw-speaking tribes that were located in the area
from the Arkansas River into eastern
American settlers began moving into
At the same time, more Native Americans were relocated
from the eastern states into the
As more and more non-Native Americans discovered the rich
farmland of
In addition to the historical evidence for the likelihood
of intact archaeological deposits, the topography of the region lends itself to
the preservation of archaeological resources.
While much of the land in the downstream portion of the Project near the
dam rises in steep bluffs from the shoreline, the upriver portions of
In a letter dated
The Pensacola Dam was the first hydroelectric facility in
the State of
The Pensacola Dam hydroelectric project was listed on the
National Register of Historic Properties (NRHP) in 2003. It is one of three dams in
The SMP states that GRDA would assist the permit
applicant in determining whether consultation with the State Historic
Preservation Office (SHPO) or the OAS is required. The SMP requires further that it would be the
responsibility of the applicant to have the appropriate investigations carried
out prior to any ground-disturbing activity.
The SMP notes GRDA has added a non-public database of known
archaeological sites to the GIS data base for the
Other than referencing the archaeological data base, the SMP provides no guidelines regarding how GRDA would make a determination regarding when a proposed action has the potential to affect historic properties, and thus when consultation with the SHPO is required. Article 409 of the Project License states that the Licensee will consult with the SHPO before starting any land-clearing or ground-disturbing activities within the Project Boundary. In addition, Article 409 requires that all land-clearing and land-disturbing activities would be stopped in the case that previously unidentified archaeological or historic properties are discovered during the course of construction at the Project. The SMP requires permittees to comply with Article 409. These existing license requirements are sufficient to provide protection for historic properties at the Project.
The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department (OKTRD)
operates and manages five state parks around
·
·
· Disney/Little Blue State Park
·
·
All of these parks provide boat ramps, campsites, picnic
tables, and restroom facilities.
Disney/Little Blue, Honey Creek, and
In addition, local communities and municipalities provide
beaches, picnic areas, boating access, and other recreation facilities. Municipal and community parks include
On the lower section of the Lake, below
There are also numerous private and commercial recreation
facilities and opportunities at the Project such as commercial marinas, resorts,
RV parks, and campgrounds. Presently,
there are approximately 4,000 permitted private docks, located mostly in the
lower section of the
Public access to
GRDA operates a tourist center at the dam and provides
guided tours from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Although GRDA does not own, operate nor
maintain any recreation facilities at
The highest concentration of recreational use occurs on the
lower section of the Lake, south of
GRDA generally owns title to the shoreline up to
elevation 750 feet PD[7] and has the
authority to prescribe and enforce rules and regulations for commercial and
recreational development and use of the
Implementing the Grand Lake SMP would likely promote increased public knowledge of existing recreation resources; identify locations for potential future recreational development; preserve and enhance aesthetics and passive recreation opportunities; and promote continued and responsible shoreline development that supports private and public access for recreational purposes and safe boating opportunities in near-shore and high congestion areas.
The SMP would likely provide a single comprehensive source of information for existing and future public access opportunities within the Project Boundary, identified by the proposed SMP. Further, this information would be periodically updated each time the SMP is reviewed, thereby resulting in a document that can be used as a reference by the public during the life of the Project license.
Implementation of the SMP would also likely enhance protection of existing and potential future public access opportunities to the Project. The proposed SMP would identify the amount and location of lands available for various recreational purposes, such as for county and regional parks, and undeveloped Project lands available for passive recreation activities. To the extent that the SMP identifies shoreline areas for potential future public access, the SMP would benefit long term recreational use by accommodating potential increased recreational demand at the Project.
Adoption of the proposed SMP may limit development in areas identified as “sensitive resource areas”. Limiting development would likely encourage opportunities for bird watching, nature viewing or other types of passive recreation experiences dependent on natural shorelines. It would also aid in maintaining and enhancing shoreline aesthetics by limiting development in these locations, and thereby enhancing the Project’s attractiveness for tourism and recreation activities.
It is important to note that although private and commercial dock facilities are limited in size and location by the existing permitting program, there are no restrictions under the existing program or within the SMP to limit the density of such structures. However, GRDA does encourage property owners to develop cluster docks, where appropriate, to reduce environmental impact. Unlimited dock/pier construction could cause excessive noise, congestion, or increased wave action which would have direct negative implications to recreational use and potential indirect effects to other environmental resources such as water quality and aquatic and terrestrial habitats. To the extent that the protection of water quality and aquatic, terrestrial, and cultural resources may be achieved through the land use regulations of the SMP, recreational use of the Project would be also enhanced.
Development along the shoreline of the
Within 500 feet of the shoreline of
The popularity of water-based recreation has resulted in
significant economic development around
Construction of private and commercial boat docks by
adjacent landowners is allowed within the GRDA Project Boundary by application
through GRDA’s existing permit program.
Approximately 3,962 private and 331 commercial boat docks have been
permitted by GRDA, primarily on the lower section of the Lake below
A total of approximately 77 square miles of land are contained within the Project Boundary. The majority of lands within the Project Boundary are deciduous forest lands, approximately 50 percent. Residential, commercial, and other development accounts for approximately 11 percent of total land area within the Project Boundary. Land uses within the Project Boundary are shown on Figure 5.6-1 and Table 5.6.1-1.
Table 5.6.1-1: Land Uses Within the Project Boundary
|
LAND USE |
PERCENT OF TOTAL LAND USE |
|
Commercial and Services |
0.3% |
|
Cropland and Pasture |
35.0% |
|
Deciduous |
49.1% |
|
Mixed Urban or Developed |
0.7% |
|
Non-forested Wetland |
0.4% |
|
Other Agricultural Land |
0.0% |
|
Other Urban or Developed |
0.1% |
|
Residential |
9.3% |
|
Streams and Canals |
4.4% |
|
Transportation, Commercial,
and Utilities |
0.2% |
|
Transitional Areas |
0.5% |
Approximately 53 percent of lands adjacent to the Project
boundary are undeveloped forestlands. In
addition, approximately 31 percent of lands adjacent to the Pensacola Project
shoreline is designated as agricultural/crop lands. The majority of the agricultural areas are
found in Ottawa County, where over 35 percent of the total land area was used
to plant field crops in 2001 (NASS, 2001d). In
GRDA has an existing permitting system designed to cover many shoreline activities including vegetation cutting and removal, dredging, commercial and residential docks and other structures, domestic irrigation and water withdrawals, etc. (see Appendix E for the existing regulations).
The Project encompasses an area of 49,024 acres, or 76.6
square miles. The lands adjacent to the
northern and western shores of the Project are characterized by rolling plains
with occasional hills and ridges. The shoreline
of
The Lake varies considerably in the extent of development
along the shoreline between the upper and lower sections of the
GRDA currently manages shoreline development on lands within the Project Boundary through its existing permit policy. The existing policy requires GRDA approval and consultation with resource agencies, and necessary state and federal permits, as appropriate for the following activities:
· Residential docks
· Commercial docks
· Clean Up/Cut A Tree/Clear Shoreline activities
· Domestic and irrigation water withdrawals
· Breakwaters
· Dredging
· Marine and special events
· Hazardous tree removal
· Buoys
GRDA proposes to continue a permitting program with enhanced policies but does not seek FERC approval of the permit system in order to maintain GRDA’s flexibility to modify permit requirements over time as necessary to maximize efficiency of managing the permit program.
Implementing the proposed SMP would have a beneficial effect on land use practices at the Project. The SMCs would define (a) the types of uses and development allowed within each classification and assist GRDA in managing permitting decisions; (b) consolidate GRDA’s existing land use policies and guidelines, including its permitting program; (c) agency consultation and enforcement; and (d) a review process for SMP updates.
GRDA’s proposed SMP, which includes both existing and new protection measures, would both directly and indirectly benefit the various resource areas affected by land management actions, such as the development and construction of new commercial and residential facilities, such as marinas, docks, breakwaters, etc., and land-clearing activities near the shore of the Lake.
Shoreline
Management Classifications and Permitting Program
The SMP includes
allowable uses and certain development restrictions for its defined SMCs for
· Multi-purpose Areas – These areas will continue to support a mix of residential and commercial development with emphasis placed on consolidating development to minimize effects to natural resources.
· Limited Development Areas – These areas will continue to support primarily residential development or undeveloped lands, with limited commercial development.
· Sensitive Resource Areas – Those undeveloped or heavily rural areas that contain significant aesthetic values or sensitive environmental resources such as wetlands, bluffs, wildlife habitat, etc. that will be managed to protect the sensitive resources contained therein and, while existing uses will be allowed to continue, new uses will be considered only under special circumstances.
· Public/Municipal Use Areas – These areas are currently employed by municipalities, agencies, and others for public uses and administration activities such as parks, municipal water withdrawals, utilities, roads, etc. As part of the SMP, GRDA will generally not allow any new uses in these areas that are not consistent with existing uses.
· Project Operation Areas – These are lands required by GRDA for current and potential future project operations including dams, spillways, transmission facilities, etc.
GRDA proposes to implement development restrictions and guidelines unique to each proposed land use classification, and in this way, would guide future development. Most commercial development would be considered appropriate within the Multi-purpose SMC, and would be generally restricted within the Limited Use and Sensitive Resource SMCs. Residential uses would be allowed within the Multi-purpose and Limited Use SMCs but would also be limited in Sensitive Resource SMCs. Only activities that are consistent with existing uses in the Public/Municipal and Project Operation SMCs would be allowed. The restrictions and guidelines specified for each SMC would be enforced through GRDA’s revised permitting program. Tables 5.6.3-1 and 5.6.3-2 provide a summary of the allowable uses and a description of what activities would likely be permitted in each SMC.
Table 5.6.3-1: Allowable Commercial Uses Within Shoreline Management Classifications
|
|
Multi Purpose |
Limited2 |
Public/ Municipal
Areas |
Sensitive Resource3 |
Project Operations |
|
|
COMMERCIAL
FACILITIES1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Construction of Commercial Dock |
YES |
GENERALLY NOT
ALLOWED |
YES - if meets GRDA permitting standards and is
within the objectives of the managing entity YES - if
meets GRDA permitting standards and is within the objectives of the
managing entity |
NO |
NO |
|
|
Repair in kind of Commercial Facility or Use (Less
than 50 %) |
YES-if structure
has existing permit from GRDA; |
YES-if structure
has existing permit from GRDA; |
||||
|
Repair/Replacement of Commercial Facility (Greater
than 50%) |
YES but requires
permit review under new SMP standards |
GENERALLY NOT
ALLOWED |
GENERALLY NOT
ALLOWED |
NO |
||
|
New Full Service |
YES |
GENERALLY NOT
ALLOWED |
GENERALLY NOT
ALLOWED |
NO |
||
|
Floating
Restaurant/ Hotel/Casino |
YES |
GENERALLY NOT ALLOWED |
GENERALLY NOT
ALLOWED |
NO |
||
|
Water
Withdrawal (e.g. municipalities/golf
courses/commercial irrigation) |
YES |
YES |
YES |
YES |
||
|
Recreation/Water
Parks w/ Shorefront Facilities |
YES |
GENERALLY NOT ALLOWED |
NO |
NO |
||
|
Dredging4 |
YES |
YES |
NO |
AS NEEDED FOR PROJECT OPERATIONS |
||
|
Commercial Marine Railways & Trams |
YES |
GENERALLY NOT ALLOWED |
NO |
AS NEEDED FOR PROJECT OPERATIONS |
||
|
Boat Ramps5 |
YES |
GENERALLY NOT ALLOWED |
NO |
NO |
||
|
Floating Breakwaters |
YES |
YES |
YES |
NO |
||
1All new
Commercial uses will require some form of permitting and/or review by GRDA;
Please refer to GRDA permitting handbooks for further details.
2 Commercial
uses are most appropriate it Multi Purpose areas, proponents of such uses
within a Limited Development area are required to provide additional support
and justification for their permit applications.
3GRDA
strongly discourages proposals for commercial uses within Sensitive Resource
areas; GRDA cautions proponents that it requires proof of extreme mitigating
circumstances, extensive additional permit application support and
justification, and mitigation measures for consideration of such uses.
4Dredging is
generally limited to 2000 cy and only allowed during drawdown events. GRDA does not allow any channel dredging.
5 No ramp
may be constructed unless at least twenty-five (25) homeowners or the public at
large may access the ramp.
Table 5.6.3-2: Allowable Residential Uses Within Shoreline Management Classifications
|
|
Multi Purpose |
Limited |
Public/ Municipal
Areas |
Sensitive
Resource2 |
Project
Operations |
|||
|
Private
Residential/ Multi-Family Uses1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|||
|
Docks
|
Yes |
Yes |
YES - if
meets GRDA permitting standards and is within the objectives of the
managing entity |
GENERALLY NOT ALLOWED |
No |
|||
|
Breakwaters, |
YES |
YES |
NO |
|||||
|
Boat
Houses |
YES |
YES |
NO |
|||||
|
Decks
&Patios |
YES |
YES |
NO |
|||||
|
Repair/Replacement
of Residential Uses (less than 50%) |
YES-if structure has existing permit from GRDA; |
|||||||
|
Repair/Replacement
of Residential Uses (greater than 50%) |
YES but requires permit review under new SMP
standards |
YES but requires permit review under new SMP
standards |
YES - if
meets GRDA permitting standards and is within the objectives of the
managing entity |
GENERALLY NOT ALLOWED |
NO |
|||
|
Multi-boat
slips (<10) |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
|||||
|
Multi-boat
slips (>10) |
YES |
Yes with no commercial trade |
No |
|||||
|
Marine Railways & Trams |
YES |
YES |
NO |
|||||
|
Boat
Ramps4 |
YES |
YES |
As necessary for Project Operations |
|||||
|
Vegetation
Management |
YES-within vegetation management plan guidelines |
YES-within vegetation management plan guidelines |
||||||
|
Floatable
Debris Management |
YES |
YES |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|||
|
Water
Withdrawal |
YES |
YES |
YES - if
meets GRDA permitting standards and is within the objectives of the
managing entity |
YES |
Yes w/FERC Review |
|||
|
Retaining
Walls |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
||||
|
Dredging |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
As Necessary For
Project Operations |
||||
|
Beaches/Common
Use Areas |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
||||
|
Picnic/Event
Facilities |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
||||
|
Agricultural
Activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|||
|
||||||||
1All new Residential uses will require some form of
permitting and/or review by GRDA; Please refer to GRDA permitting handbooks for
further details.
2GRDA strongly discourages proposals for commercial uses
within Sensitive Resource areas; GRDA cautions project proponents that it
requires proof of extreme mitigating circumstances, extensive additional permit
application support and justification, and mitigation measures for
consideration of such uses.
3Dredging is
generally limited to 2000 cy and only allowed during drawdown events. GRDA does not allow any channel dredging.
4 Ramp may
not be constructed unless at least twenty-five (25) homeowners or the public at
large may access the ramp.
Implementation of
SMC development activity restrictions and other proposed SMP protection,
enhancement and education programs discussed in greater detail below, in
conjunction with GRDA’s permitting program, are likely to provide additional
protection and benefits to shoreline resources over the existing
condition. The effects of development
activities on the environmental and aesthetic resources of the
The SMP would protect shoreline resources by requiring development permit applications to be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, with particular scrutiny for certain activities and SMC designations. Though residential development is allowed in most of the proposed SMC classifications, land disturbance and construction in certain areas would be subject to restrictions, such as prohibiting construction of boat houses and docks in shallow coves and limiting or restricting new uses in areas considered congested. Municipal or public use areas proposed for locations outside the designated SMCs would need to be demonstrated to be in the public interest before approval by GRDA. Likewise, applicants proposing new uses in Sensitive Resource areas would be required to demonstrate necessity and public interest and provide required protection, mitigation, and enhancement (PM&E) measures necessary to minimize the effects of the proposed development.
Furthermore,
permits for commercial activities must address the proposed Project’s
environmental effects including those on fish and wildlife, threatened and
endangered species, vegetation, cultural resources, water quality and existing
recreation uses, including any unavoidable adverse effects and PM&E
measures to address those effects.
Applicants must provide, among other things, a statement supporting that
the project is consistent with approved recreation, dredging, cultural resource
and wildlife protection plans, statutory mandates or project management
requirements and describing why the project is in the public interest. Issues of boating safety during and after
construction, as well as a statement of measures proposed to protect adjacent
property owners’ access to the shoreline and
Implementing the
SMP may result in a slight decrease in the rate of residential and commercial
development along the shoreline.
Commercial and, to a lesser degree, residential development may be
reduced due to restrictions and guidelines that limit development in selected
SMCs. However, because development is not
expressly prohibited by the proposed SMP, it is not likely that the rate of
development would be substantially reduced from current conditions. As such, shoreline resources (i.e., riparian
vegetation, fisheries, recreational use, etc.)
would likely continue to be affected by shoreline development activities. Because these shoreline resources would be
considered by GRDA in any permit application, the proposed SMP and associated
programs are expected to benefit land use, aesthetics, and the natural,
cultural and recreational resources of
The SMP contains additional shoreline management policies
designed to protect and enhance the environmental, cultural, recreational, and
aesthetic resources of the
· Habitable Structures;
· Vegetation Management and Shoreline Stabilization;
· Dredging; and
· Derelict docks.
Each policy, and associated benefits to land use
management and the environmental, cultural, and recreational resources of the
Of increasing interest at
Existing habitable structures have the potential to
contribute to deteriorating water quality in the Project due to non-existent or
faulty gray water, septic or other waste disposal systems (see Section 5.2.3). Their location, over the water, is a
particular challenge for proper waste disposal.
In addition, to sanitation issues, these structures may inhibit
navigation in near shore areas, block views of boaters and shoreline residents,
present a different waterfront aesthetic and can present a safety issue for
access. Closed and covered structures
block line of sight for boats entering the
Due to the existence of these structures on the
GRDA proposes a policy for the management, removal, and planting of vegetation within the Project Boundary. The Vegetation Management Policy would generally prohibit the use of herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers; require a permit for live vegetation removal but allow dead trees to be removed; generally not allow mowing; allow the construction of foot paths; and prohibit vegetable gardens within the Project Boundary. The policy would also encourage the planting of trees, shrubs, wildflowers, native grasses, and ground covers within GRDA lands to create, improve, or enhance the vegetative cover.
The proposed SMP also includes a Shoreline Stabilization Policy, wherein GRDA would issue permits allowing shoreline property owners to stabilize eroding shorelines within the Project Boundary. Through this policy, GRDA would recommend shoreline stabilization methods, such as biostabilization, riprap, or retaining walls. GRDA would conduct site inspections of the eroded areas to determine the most appropriate methods for stabilization.
Neither policy expressly prohibits vegetation removal or requires shoreline stabilization in areas where erosion is identified; therefore, shoreline erosion may not be adequately addressed in the SMP. However, GRDA would consider effects on soils in permit applications submitted for vegetation removal and would approve the most appropriate measure with emphasis on biostabilization techniques for shoreline stabilization. Hazardous tree removal, with a permit, is already allowed under GRDA’s existing permitting policy. The Vegetative Management and Shoreline Stabilization Policies are not likely to significantly change existing land use patterns and trends, though stricter scrutiny for certain land clearing and ground disturbance activities may shift landscape management schemes. Shoreline property owners may be required to choose alternative landscape and shoreline stabilization methods if proposed measures in applications were deemed by GRDA to be inappropriate or inconsistent with the environmental and aesthetic protection goals of the SMP.
Dredging is a highly regulated activity under the
proposed SMP. All dredging must conform
to GRDA’s existing approved Dredging Management Plan (cite). Additionally the SMP imposes restrictions on
dredging in Sensitive Resource areas.
The current plan provides comprehensive regulations and guidelines for
dredging, excavation and fill activities.
Among the protective measures that would be imposed under the SMP are:
wetland delineation studies, limitations on the amount of material removed,
regulations on the disposal of spoil material, and potential soil testing
requirements. In addition, GRDA would
require completion of a training program for all contractors wishing to undertake
dredging activities at
Because dredging is primarily conducted for on-water
navigational purposes, the effects of the policy on land use is negligible. However, some dredging occurs to provide improved
or additional access to Project waters at residential or commercial access facilities. To the extent that this policy would impose
more stringent regulations for dredging activities which may directly affect
the construction of access support facilities, there could be a slight decline
in new access facility construction, particularly in shallower areas of the
The SMP contains provisions to address derelict docks and other unimproved and unmaintained structures. This provision would likely benefit the safety of dock users, prevent floating debris associated with dilapidated on-water structures, and preserve the aesthetic integrity of the Project shoreline. It is unlikely that enforcement of building standards would result in a decrease or leveling-off of new dock permit applications.
GRDA proposes to use GIS as a tool to assist shoreline management activities. A database would geospatially identify existing land uses, designate SMCs, and parcels of recreation areas, wetlands and other natural resources. This database would form the basis of the existing condition descriptions and manage permit and ownership information on a parcel basis for each shoreline property. To the extent that the GIS database would assist GRDA with administration of its permitting system, enforcement of development restrictions, management of SMCs, and identification of environmental, cultural and recreational resources, and land use management within the Project Boundary would be significantly enhanced.
Implementation of the SMCs, the aforementioned land management policies, and additional development restrictions imposed through the permitting process would likely afford protection of shoreline resources. However, the potential remains that fish and wildlife resources, especially those with limited habitat and water quality would be affected, as development activities on adjacent properties are not regulated through GRDA’s permitting process and the provisions of the proposed SMP would not apply to these lands. Though GRDA has no control over lands outside of the Project Boundary, the SMP promotes Best Management Practices (BMPs) for preserving and protecting natural resources on lands adjacent to the Project. The goal of promoting shoreline BMPs is to assist in the conservation and protection of valuable shoreline resources and help to reduce potential impacts to shoreline resources and water quality. BMPs are voluntary guidelines and, as such, are effective in protecting resources to the extent that shoreline property owners adopt and adhere to them. However, adverse impacts to environmental, cultural, recreational or aesthetic resources by construction activities outside of the Project Boundary are largely beyond the control of GRDA.
Agency consultation provisions of the proposed permitting program may also offer additional limited protection for resources, depending upon the particular resource and level of consultation required (notification vs. agency permit requirements). For example, any development that affects wetland areas is subject to the terms of the 401 water quality certification issued by the OKDNR, a 404 permit approved by the Corps, and, other local, county, state and federal permit certifications. SHPO notification is required for any land disturbing activities and items of cultural significance discovered during land disturbing activities. Although consultation is currently required under GRDA’s permit program, the proposed SMP would better ensure protection of resources from adverse effects of development by clarifying for the public who may be submitting a permit application, when agency consultation is required.
GRDA also has a law enforcement division that enforces GRDA rules and regulations on Project lands and waters. The SMP does not propose any changes over the existing condition as the enforcement division was created as part of GRDA’s enabling legislation (see Section 4.1). GRDA’s enforcement division would be responsible for enforcing the provisions of the SMP, once approved by FERC.
GRDA proposes to review the SMC designations, mapping, SMP policies, and its permitting program every six years. Review and update of the SMP would help to ensure the applicability and relevance of the SMP provisions, review any new shoreline management issues and address new land uses and shoreline development trends in the future, and provide for responsible land management.
The Project is bordered by
Table 5.10-1: Selected Demographic and Economic Characteristics for
|
|
Population (2000)a |
Population Projection 2030a |
Per Capita Income (2000)a |
Labor Force (2005)b |
Unemployment Rate (11/2005)b |
|
Craig |
14,950 |
20,000 |
$16,593 |
6,770
|
4.20% |
|
|
37,077 |
56,200 |
$15,424 |
17,390
|
4.00% |
|
Mayes |
38,369 |
50,300 |
$15,350 |
16,270
|
4.50% |
|
|
33,194 |
39,600 |
$14,478 |
16,130
|
4.60% |
|
a b LAUS |
|||||
The 2000 population of the four county region was approximately123,590
(Table 3.10-1).
More recent annual population estimates suggest that the
populations of Craig and
Table 5.10.1-1: Annual Population Estimates for
|
|
CENSUS |
PROJECTIONS |
PERCENT CHANGE |
|||
|
COUNTY |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2000-2004 |
|
Craig |
14,950 |
14,800 |
14,800 |
14,900 |
14,900 |
-0.52 |
|
|
37,077 |
37,700 |
38,000 |
38,600 |
39,100 |
5.42 |
|
Mayes |
38,369 |
38,500 |
38,800 |
39,000 |
39,300 |
2.36 |
|
|
33,194 |
33,200 |
32,900 |
32,800 |
32,700 |
-1.38 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
126,000 |
|
|
(Source:
Oklahoma Department of Commerce, 2005c.) |
||||||
Construction of
Vinita is hailed as the second oldest town in
Many seasonal businesses are established to capitalize on
the tourism industry and support the interests and needs of the visitors and
permanent and seasonal residents alike.
These businesses include fast food establishments, gas stations,
waterfront shops, marinas, retail, etc., all providing employment opportunities
and contribute to economic stability of the area.
It is generally acknowledged that property values are, in
part, a function of location, and that includes proximity to water bodies. In
The primary industries contributing to employment in the
region are educational, health and social services; and manufacturing (Table 5.10.2-1). Recreation and tourism industry plays an
important role, but only ranks among the top three industries in terms of
employment in
Table 5.10.2-1: Employment by Industry in
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Employed Population |
6,366 |
14,745 |
16,520 |
14,172 |
|
|
|
|||
|
|
Percent of Employed Workers by County |
|||
|
Educational, health and social
services |
23.5 |
17.2 |
17.4 |
23.9 |
|
Manufacturing |
14.9 |
21.3 |
25.1 |
17.7 |
|
Retail trade |
11.3 |
12 |
11 |
10.3 |
|
Transportation and warehousing,
and utilities |
9.2 |
5.2 |
7.2 |
5 |
|
Arts, entertainment,
recreation, accommodation and food services |
6.3 |
8.1 |
6 |
10.5 |
|
Agriculture, forestry, fishing
and hunting, mining |
6.2 |
5 |
3.9 |
4.9 |
|
Construction |
5.9 |
9.8 |
8.5 |
6.3 |
|
Public administration |
5.1 |
3.4 |
3.4 |
4.3 |
|
Professional, scientific,
management, administrative, and waste management services |
4.4 |
4.1 |
4.5 |
3.4 |
|
Other services |
3.9 |
4.9 |
4.5 |
6.2 |
|
Wholesale trade |
3.9 |
2.4 |
3.4 |
2.7 |
|
Finance, insurance, real
estate, and rental and leasing |
3.5 |
4.9 |
3.5 |
3.9 |
|
Information |
1.8 |
1.5 |
1.7 |
0.9 |
|
a |
|
|
|
|
Under GRDA’s proposed SMP, there are no set limits on
development at the
No tribal lands are located within the Project Boundary. No cultural resources have been specifically
identified as sites of traditional cultural or religious significance to any
tribe. However, the
There are no known effects of implementing the SMP on tribal resources. As described in Section 5.4.3, any archaeological and historic resources would be addressed through consultation with the SHPO, Advisory Council and appropriate Native American tribes.
Caneday,
Lowell, Brandon Neal, Susie Ruby, and Clarence Ruby. 1996.
Recreation Management Plan:
Cowardin, L. M., V.
Carter, F. Golet and E. LaRoe. 1979. Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater
Habitats of the
EPA. 2002.
303(d) State Impaired Waters list.
[Online] URL: http://oaspub.epa.gov/pls/tmdl/enviro.control?p_list_id=OK121600030020&p_cycle=2002. (Accessed
Erickson, N.E. and D.M.,
Leslie Jr. 1988. Shoreline vegetation and general wildlife values
around
Federal
Energy Regulatory Commission. 1991. Environmental Assessment for Hydropower
License:
Federal
Energy Regulatory Commission. 1992. Order Issuing New License,
Federal
Energy Regulatory Commission. 1996. Order Amending License,
Federal
Energy Regulatory Commission. 1998. Order Approving Recreation Plan.
Gibson,
A.M. 1984. The History of
Gough,
G.A., J.R. Sauer, and M. Iliff. 1998. Patuxent Bird Identification Infocenter.
Version 97.1.
Grove Area Chamber of
Commerce, 2006. [Online] URL: http://groveok.org. (Accessed
Hoagland
B.W., Buthod A.K.,
Kletke, D. 2003.
LAUS
LAUS/2005/Nov/Counties.htm.
(Accessed
LaVal, R.
K., R. L. Clawson, M.L. LaVal, and W. Caire. 1977. Foraging
Behavior and Nocturnal Activity Patterns of Missouri Bats, With Emphasis on the
Endangered Species Myotis grisescens
and Myotis sodalis. J. Mammal. 58:592-599.
Lish, J.W. 1987. Diet,
Population Size, and Location of High Use Areas for Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus
leucocephalus) Wintering on
Masters, R. E. 1993.
National
Agricultural Statistics Service. 2001a.
Field Crops in 2001,
National
Agricultural Statistics Service.
2001b. Field Crops in 2001,
National
Agricultural Statistics Service.
2001c. Field Crops in 2001,
National
Agricultural Statistics Service.
2001d. Field Crops in 2001,
National
Weather Service Forecast Office.
2005.
Oklahoma
Department of Commerce. 2005a.
Census 2000 Community Profiles.
[Online] URL: http://busdev3.odoc5.odoc.state.ok.us/servlet/page?_pageid=1470&_dad
=portal30&_schema=PORTAL30&cwr=68.
(Accessed
Oklahoma
Department of Commerce. 2005b.
Census 2000
option=com_docman&task=view_category&Itemid=99&subcat=7&catid=64&limitstart=0&limit=20. (Accessed
Oklahoma
Department of Commerce. 2005c.
Annual Estimates of the Population for Counties of
Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality. 2003. Fish Tissues Metal Analysis in the Tri-State Mining Area. Final Report.
Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality. 2002.
Water Quality Assessment Integrated Report. Prepared Pursuant to Section 303(d) and
Section 305(b) of the Clean Water Act by the Oklahoma Department of
Environmental Quality.
Oklahoma
Department of Wildlife Conservation.
2005a.
Oklahoma
Department of Wildlife Conservation.
2005b.
Oklahoma
Department of Wildlife Conservation.
2005c. Spring Electrofishing Survey Results.
Oklahoma
Department of Wildlife Conservation.
2005d. Fishing Restrictions on
/fishregs/specialrestrict.htm.
(Accessed
Polite, C. and J. Pratt.
2002. Bald Eagle.
Pryor Area Chamber of
Commerce, 2006. [Online] URL: http://www.pryorok.com. (Accessed
Stancill,
W.J., D.M. Leslie, Jr., and R.F. Raskevitz.
1989. Waterfowl Production on
Stancill,
W.J., S.B. Haggard, R.F. Raskevitz, and D.M. Leslie Jr. 1988.
Waterfowl Use and Hunting Opportunities on
Tuttle, M.D. 1976. Population Ecology of the Gray Bat (Myotis grisescens): Factors Influencing Growth and Survival of Newly Volant Young. Ecology. 57:587-595.
US
Census. 2000a. Craig County General Demographic
Characteristics, 2000.
Vinita
Wagner, Steve. 1992. The
prehistoric paddlefish. Outdoor
Wikipedia
Online Encyclopedia. 2005. The Grand (
Woods,
A.J., Omernik, J.M.,
APPENDIX __
DRAFT ER COMMENTS
APPENDIX __
REPRESENTATIVE BOTANICAL SPECIES
Table 5.3.3-1: Botanical Species Typical of the Grand
|
FAMILY |
SCIENTIFIC
NAME |
COMMON NAME |
|
Acanthaceae |
branched foldwing |
|
|
|
American water-willow |
|
|
Aceraceae |
boxelder |
|
|
|
red maple |
|
|
|
silver maple |
|
|
|
sugar maple |
|
|
Alismataceae |
American water plantain |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
hooded arrowhead |
|
|
Anacardiaceae |
fragrant sumac |
|
|
|
prairie sumac |
|
|
Annonaceae |
pawpaw |
|
|
Apiaceae |
prairie bishop |
|
|
|
stiff cowbane |
|
|
|
Nuttall's prairie parsley |
|
|
Aquifoliaceae |
possumhaw |
|
|
Araceae |
green dragon |
|
|
|
Jack in the pulpit |
|
|
Asclepiadaceae |
milkweed |
|
|
Asteraceae |
common yarrow |
|
|
|
prairie sunflower |
|
|
|
pinnate prairie coneflower |
|
|
|
blackeyed Susan |
|
|
|
cutleaf coneflower |
|
|
|
smooth violet prairie aster |
|
|
Balsaminaceae |
jewelweed |
|
|
Berberidaceae |
mayapple |
|
|
Betulaceae |
river birch |
|
|
|
American hazelnut |
|
|
|
hophornbeam |
|
|
Bignoniaceae |
trumpet creeper |
|
|
|
southern catalpa |
|
|
|
northern catalpa |
|
|
Caprifoliaceae |
yellow honeysuckle |
|
|
|
common elderberry |
|
|
Cornaceae |
roughleaf dogwood |
|
|
|
flowering dogwood |
|
|
Cupressaceae |
eastern redcedar |
|
|
Cyperaceae |
glomerate sedge |
|
|
|
limestone meadow sedge |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
marsh flatsedge |
|
|
|
common spikerush |
|
|
|
softstem bulrush |
|
|
|
green bulrush |
|
|
Dryopteridaceae |
brittle bladderfern |
|
|
|
bluntlobe cliff fern |
|
|
Fabaceae |
silktree |
|
|
|
honeylocust |
|
|
|
Glycine max |
soybean |
|
|
Medicago spp. |
Alfalfa hay |
|
|
black locust |
|
|
Fagaceae |
white oak |
|
|
|
southern red oak |
|
|
|
bur oak |
|
|
|
blackjack oak |
|
|
|
chinkapin oak |
|
|
|
pin oak |
|
|
|
northern red oak |
|
|
|
Shumard's oak |
|
|
|
post oak |
|
|
|
black oak |
|
|
Juglandaceae |
Carya spp. |
hickory |
|
|
mockernut hickory |
|
|
|
bitternut hickory |
|
|
|
pecan |
|
|
|
shellbark hickory |
|
|
|
red hickory |
|
|
|
black hickory |
|
|
|
black walnut |
|
|
Juncaceae |
tapertip rush |
|
|
|
common rush |
|
|
|
grassleaf rush |
|
|
Lamiaceae |
yellow giant hyssop |
|
|
|
spearmint |
|
|
|
peppermint |
|
|
|
pitcher sage |
|
|
|
hoary skullcap |
|
|
Lauraceae |
northern spicebush |
|
|
|
sassafras |
|
|
Moraceae |
osage orange |
|
|
|
white mulberry |
|
|
|
red mulberry |
|
|
Nelumbonaceae |
American lotus |
|
|
Nymphaeaceae |
American white waterlily |
|
|
Nyssaceae |
blackgum |
|
|
Oleaceae |
eastern swampprivet |
|
|
|
white ash |
|
|
|
green ash |
|
|
Onagraceae |
broadleaf enchanter's nightshade |
|
|
|
seedbox |
|
|
|
marsh seedbox |
|
|
|
common evening-primrose |
|
|
Ophioglossaceae |
rattlesnake fern |
|
|
Orchidaceae |
|
|
|
|
tuberous grasspink |
|
|
Phytolaccaceae |
American pokeweed |
|
|
Pinaceae |
shortleaf pine |
|
|
Plantaginaceae |
largebracted plantain |
|
|
|
common plantain |
|
|
Poaceae |
jointed goatgrass |
|
|
|
big bluestem |
|
|
|
silver bluestem |
|
|
|
splitbeard bluestem |
|
|
|
broomsedge bluestem |
|
|
|
prairie threeawn |
|
|
|
switchgrass |
|
|
|
little bluestem |
|
|
|
marsh bristlegrass |
|
|
|
Indiangrass |
|
|
|
Sorghum spp. |
Sorghum |
|
|
prairie cordgrass |
|
|
|
prairie wedgescale |
|
|
|
eastern gamagrass |
|
|
|
common wheat |
|
|
|
sixweeks fescue |
|
|
Polemoniaceae |
wild blue phlox |
|
|
Polygalaceae |
procession flower |
|
|
|
purple milkwort |
|
|
Polygonaceae |
prostrate knotweed |
|
|
|
marshpepper knotweed |
|
|
|
swamp smartweed |
|
|
|
common sheep sorrel |
|
|
|
bitter dock |
|
|
Portulacaceae |
|
|
|
|
little hogweed |
|
|
Potamogetonaceae |
waterthread pondweed |
|
|
Primulaceae |
western rockjasmine |
|
|
|
pride of |
|
|
|
fringed loosestrife |
|
|
Pteridaceae |
northern maidenhair |
|
|
|
powdery false cloak fern |
|
|
|
Wright's cliffbrake |
|
|
Ranunculaceae |
|
|
|
|
tall thimbleweed |
|
|
|
red columbine |
|
|
|
satincurls |
|
|
|
pale leather flower |
|
|
|
early buttercup |
|
|
|
bristly buttercup |
|
|
Rhamnaceae |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rosaceae |
soft agrimony |
|
|
|
common serviceberry |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
prairie crabapple |
|
|
|
American plum |
|
|
|
black cherry |
|
|
|
white prairie rose |
|
|
|
multiflora rose |
|
|
|
Rubus spp. |
blackberry |
|
Rubiaceae |
common buttonbush |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
stickywilly |
|
|
|
shining bedstraw |
|
|
Rutaceae |
common hoptree |
|
|
Salicaceae |
coastal plain willow |
|
|
|
prairie willow |
|
|
|
black willow |
|
|
Scrophulariaceae |
roundstem false foxglove |
|
|
|
prairie false foxglove |
|
|
|
disk waterhyssop |
|
|
|
American bluehearts |
|
|
|
scarlet Indian paintbrush |
|
|
|
violet blue eyed Mary |
|
|
|
butter and eggs |
|
|
|
yellowseed false pimpernel |
|
|
|
sharpwing monkeyflower |
|
|
Smilacaceae |
saw greenbrier |
|
|
|
cat greenbrier |
|
|
Tiliaceae |
American basswood |
|
|
Typhaceae |
narrowleaf cattail |
|
|
|
broadleaf cattail |
|
|
Ulmaceae |
sugarberry |
|
|
|
netleaf hackberry |
|
|
|
common hackberry |
|
|
|
dwarf hackberry |
|
|
|
winged elm |
|
|
|
American elm |
|
|
|
slippery elm |
|
|
Urticaceae |
smallspike false nettle |
|
|
|
stinging nettle |
|
|
Verbenaceae |
American lopseed |
|
|
|
swamp verbena |
|
|
Violaceae |
eastern greenviolet |
|
|
|
arrowleaf violet |
|
|
|
common blue violet |
|
|
Vitaceae |
heartleaf peppervine |
|
|
|
Virginia creeper |
|
|
|
Vitis vulpina |
frost grape |
(Source:
Hoagland et al., 2004)
APPENDIX __
GRDA’S EXISTING PERMIT
PROGRAM
[1]
The 503 miles of shoreline within the Project Boundary is referenced from
GRDA’s GIS system used to develop the SMP.
Traditionally, GRDA has used an estimate of 1200miles of shoreline based
upon original surveys and metes and bounds descriptions of GRDA’s properties at
[2] Pensacola Datum (PD) is 1.07 feet higher than National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD), which is a national standard for measuring elevations above sea level.
[3]
The elevation 750 feet PD is identified as the approximate Project
boundary. The real boundary is described
by a metes and bounds description. A
legal survey should be consulted for any detailed
[4] Referred to as Bottomland or
[5] Between elevations 742 and 755 PD; See Erickson and Leslie, 1988.
[6] FERC defines “recreation day” as each visit by
a person to a development for recreational purposes during any portion of a 24
hour period.
[7]
The elevation 750 feet PD is identified as the approximate project
boundary. The real boundary is described
by a metes and bounds description. A
legal survey should be consulted for any detailed work or for identifying
activities on a specific parcel.