Alderberry_EA_Final_with_Appendices_(1).pdf

Alderberry Rd - 90 Ac +/- Page 1 of 10

Environmental Assessment Report

Alderberry Road Parcel Walton County, Florida

Prepared for:

Barrett Brooks

Via email Bbrooks@brookscompany.net

Prepared by:

Amy Douglas

Red Oak Farms Consulting

Date: 17 May 2024

Appendices:

Appendix 1: Exhibits

Appendix 2: USFWS Listed Species List

Appendix 3: Cultural Resource Master Site File Search Results

Alderberry Rd - 90 Ac +/- Page 2 of 10

1.0 Introduction

An Environmental Assessment was completed by Red Oak Farms Consulting professional ecologists in April 2024 for a 90.5 +/- acre property on Alderberry Road (Parcels 20-2S-20- 33300-000-0090, 20-2S-20-33300-000-0050, and 20-2S-20-33300-000-0052) located in Section 20, Township 2 South, Range 20 West, Walton County, Florida (Exhibit 1. Project Location). The approximate central coordinates are 30°23'36.03"N, 86°16'23.13"W (Exhibit 2.

USGS Topographic Quadrangle).

2.0 Site Conditions

2.1 Florida Land Use Land Cover (FLUCCS)

The site is currently forested with a mowed understory (Exhibit 3. Current Aerial Imagery).

The adjacent lands include Choctawhatchee Bay to the north, undeveloped conservation land to the west, Eagle Bay Subdivision the east and Alderberry Road with undeveloped residential forested properties to the south. Exhibit 4. Florida State Land Use Land Cover Classification shows that there are 7 classifications within the project boundary.

4110: Xeric Pine Flatwoods This Flatwoods category includes a wide variety of species found in drier soils including saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), sand live oak (Quercus geminate), myrtle oak (Quercus myrtifolia), yaupon (Ilex vomitoria), sand pine (pinus clausea), slash pine (pinus elliottii), false rosemary (Conradina canescens), runner oak (Quercus pumila), shiny blueberry (Vaccinium myrsinites), hairy wicky (Kalmia hirsuta). This habitat is common in drier soils with limited moisture availability.

4110: Pine Flatwoods Onsite review concludes that the canopy species present in this upland area included slash pine (Pinus elliottii), scattered longleaf pine (Pinus palustris), Southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), with an open, owed subcanopy and shrub layer and scattered understory species including saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), rusty staggerbush (Lyonia ferrugenea) and gallberry (Ilex glabra). Groundcover species included bracken fern (Pteridium aqualinum), shiny blueberry (Vaccinium myrsinites), hairy wicky (Kalmia hirsuta), and dwarf huckleberry (Gaylussacia frondosa).

5410: Embayments opening directly into the Gulf of Mexico or Atlantic Ocean This area represents the portion of land directly adjacent to the Choctawhatchee Bay.

6250: Hydric Pine Flatwoods Onsite review concludes that the canopy species present in this wetland area include a moderate density of spindly slash pine (Pinus elliottii), sweetbay magnolia (Magnolia virginiana), and tupelo (Nyssa sp.), with a subcanopy and shrub layer of black titi (Cliftonia monophylla), white titi (Cyrilla racemiflora), swamp bayberry (Morella heterophylla) and tall gallberry (Ilex coriacea). Understory species include wax myrtle (Morella cerifera), gallberry (Ilex glabra), with limited vine coverage by poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans).

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6300: Wetland Forested Mixed This classification includes mixed wetland forest communities in which neither hardwoods or conifers achieve a 66% dominance of the crown canopy composition. A small area of this occurs in the northwest portion of the site. Canopy consists of scattered slash pine (Pinus elliottii), black titi (Cliftonia monophylla), white titi (Cyrilla racemiflora), swamp bayberry (Morella heterophylla) and tall gallberry (Ilex coriacea).

6420: Saltwater Marshes This salt water marsh community is predominated by needlerush (Juncus roemerianus), cordgrasses (Spartina patens), seashore saltgrass (Distichlis spicata). Two saltwater marshes occur on the property, one in the northeast corner where a slough drains into the Choctawhatchee Bay and the other in the northwest corner where the land begins to slope downward into the Bay.

6460: Mixed Scrub-shrub Wetland These wetlands are dominated by low, woody wetland shrubs, primarily black titi (Cliftonia monophylla) or white titi (Cyrilla racemiflora). Habitat with this classification occurs through the site.

2.2 Elevations and Hydrology

The site is relatively flat, ranging from 0 feet to 10 feet according to the Florida Department of Environmental Management’s (FDEM) 1-ft contours. Exhibit 5. USGS Lower Choctawhatchee 2017 1-m DEM along with FDEM’s 1-ft contours show the project area sloping from the south towards Choctawhatchee Bay.

2.3 Soils

Soils are classified by the Natural Resource Conservation service section of the U.S.

Department of Agriculture (NRCS). The site includes 3 soil types: 0-2% slopes; Mandarin sand, 0-2% slopes, and Rutlege fine sand, 0-2% slopes (Exhibit 6. NRCS Soil Survey).

Leon sand, 0-2% slopes This soil series consists of very deep, very poorly drained, and moderately rapid to moderately slowly permeable soils on upland flats, depressions, stream terraces, and tidal areas. They formed in marine sediments of the Eastern Gulf Coast Flatwoods. The high water table occurs at a depth of 10 to 40 inches for periods of more than 9 months during most years. The available water capacity is very low in the surface and subsurface layers and low in the subsoil. Permeability is rapid in the surface and subsurface layers and moderate to moderately rapid in the subsoil, and very rapid below that. The organic matter content is low to moderate.

Mandarin sand, 0-2% slopes These soils are somewhat poorly drained, nearly level, and occur in slightly elevated areas on flatwoods and marine terraces. They formed from marine sediments of the lower coastal plain. The high water table occurs at a depth of 20 to 40 inches for 4 to 6 months during most

Alderberry Rd - 90 Ac +/- Page 4 of 10 years and below a depth of 40 inches for 6 to 8 months. The available water capacity is very low or low in the surface and subsurface layers and moderate or low in the subsoil.

Permeability is rapid in the surface and subsurface layers, and moderate in the upper part of the subsoil and rapid below that. The organic matter content is very low to moderate.

Rutlege fine sand, 0-2% slopes These soils are nearly level and very poorly drained. They are typically found in shallow depressions and on stream or creek flood plains and upland flats. They formed from marine or fluvial sediments in the lower and middle coastal plain. Rutlege soils have a water table near the surface for long periods during the year and shallow ponding is common. The available water capacity is high in the surface layer and low in the underlying material.

Permeability is rapid through, although internal drainage is slow when impeded by the high water table. The organic matter content is high or very high.

2.4 Wetland Delineation

A wetland delineation was completed on the subject parcel by professional wetland ecologists in March and April 2024. Jurisdictional wetlands were found on the property (Exhibit 7.

Wetland Delineation). The wetland delineation is based on soils data, wetland indicators, historical aerial imagery and field inspection, and is subject to agency review. Approximately

25.4 acres of wetlands exist on the property 23.5 acre of jurisdictional wetlands and 1.9 acres of isolated wetlands.

3.0 Resource Protections

In order to protect, conserve and enhance Walton’s County’s natural and historical features, the Land Development Code requires protective buffers for Wetlands Resource Protection; Coastal Resource Protection; Shoreline Protection; Groundwater and Wellheads; and Wildlife Habitat, Open Space, and Unique Natural Areas.

3.1 Wetland Protection

Wetland protection zones were created to preserve the value and function of existing wetland systems in Walton County as animal and plant habitat, natural flood storage, and buffers between surface water bodies and activities on adjacent uplands. Primary and secondary wetland zones defined in Walton County’s Land Development Code (4.01.00). Primary wetland zones are the actual jurisdictional wetland, and the secondary wetland zone is the 25 foot buffer surrounding the primary wetland zone. Primary wetland zones occur on the subject parcel based on the wetland delineation, and the wetland area is subject to change with agency review.

3.2 Coastal Resource Protection

The Coastal Resource Protection section (4.02.00) in Walton County’s Land Development Code regulates the development in coastal areas to protect and enhance the resources that are unique to the dune systems and dune lake systems. This section includes three protection

Alderberry Rd - 90 Ac +/- Page 5 of 10 zones: Coastal Protection Zones, Coastal Dune Lake Protection Zone, and Coastal High Hazard Zone.

3.2.1 Coastal Protection Zone

The Coastal Protection Zone is defined as an area that extends 50 feet seaward of the landward toe of the primary dune or ridge; or the area seaward of a line 50 feet landward of the crest of the primary dune when the toe cannot be determined; or 25 feet landward of the top of the higher bluff regions where no primary dune exists. The subject parcel is not located within the coastal protection zone.

3.2.2 Coastal Dune Lake Protection Zone

The Coastal Dune Lake Protection Zone is defined as being all lands within an area beginning at the mean of ordinary high water line of the coastal dune lakes and their tributaries and extending 300 feet landward. The subject parcel is not located within the Coastal Fune Lake Protection Zone.

3.2.3 Coastal High Hazard Zone

The Coastal High Hazard Zone extends from offshore to the inland limit of the primary frontal dune or any other area subject to damage caused by wave action and/or high velocity water during the 1% annual-chance flood. The subject parcel is not located within this zone.

3.3 Shoreline Protection

The Shoreline Protection section was created to regulate development of areas adjacent to surface water bodies in Walton County and to protect and enhance the quality and function of the natural systems which are unique to shoreline areas. Buffering and clearing restrictions have been implemented to preserve and enhance the County’s water quality. This zone is defined as all land within 50 feet of the mean high water line of each inlet, creek, natural non-manmade lake, and river within Walton County. Man-made canals and ditches are subject to a 25 foot buffer. The shoreline protection zone within the Bay encompasses the Bay itself and all area within 50 feet landward of the mean high water line of Choctawhatchee Bay and bayous directly connected to the Bay. The subject property is located within the Shoreline Protection for the Choctawhatchee Bay (Exhibit 8. Shoreline Protection Zone). Please see section 4.03.03 of Walton County’s Land Development Code for specific restrictions within this zone.

3.4 Groundwater and Wellheads

Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Wellhead Protection Rule (62-521, F.A.C.)

established a 500-foot radius circular protection area around all wells which serve community and non-transient non-community public water systems. Well data obtained from the Florida Department of Health on all active community and non-transient non-community public water systems were mapped. The project is located approximately 1.2 miles from the nearest wellhead protection zone (Exhibit 9. Wellhead Protection Zone).

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3.5 Wildlife Habitat, Open Space, and Unique Natural Areas

3.5.1 Threatened and Endangered Species

A list of species that have ranges overlapping the geographic area of the Project site was obtained from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC) services (included as Appendix 2). Table 1 provides a list of the protected wildlife species the USFWS states could potentially occur within the project area. No federally threatened or endangered wildlife or plant species were located within the site boundaries during the preliminary field survey. There is critical habitat within the project area for one species: the Gulf sturgeon. A Bald Eagle Nest Buffer Area occurs on the project site, a map of which is included in the Exhibits package. Suitable habitat for gopher tortoises exists onsite, and a tortoise survey of suitable habitat should be conducted prior to development.

Table 1. Protected species that may occur within the project area.

Common Name Species Name Listing Agency Status

Tricolored Bat Perimyotis subflavus Federal Proposed Endangered

West Indian Manatee Trichechus manatus Federal Threatened

Eastern Black Rail Laterallus jamaicensis ssp.

jamaicensis

Federal Threatened

Red-Cockaded Woodpecker Picoides borealis Federal Endangered

Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus Federal BGPA*

Alligator Snapping Turtle Macrochelys temminckii Federal Proposed

Threatened

Eastern Indigo Snake Drymarchon couperi Federal Threatened

Gopher Tortoise Gopherus polyphemus State Threatened

Gulf sturgeon Acipenser oxyrinchus (=oxyrhynchus) desotoi

Federal Threatened

Monarch Butterfly Danaus plexippus Federal Candidate

*Federally protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act

Tricolored bat This tiny, insectivorous bat species is uncommonly encountered but occurs in all of peninsular Florida, and is commonly mistaken for a moth. The tricolored bat hibernates almost exclusively in caves, in Spanish moss, old buildings and tree cavities. There are no caves or structures onsite, and snags and Spanish moss are limited. Species not observed or expected onsite.

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West Indian Manatee The West Indian manatee is known to occur within Choctawhatchee Bay, north of the project site.

Eastern Black Rail The eastern black rail is a secretive, sparrow-sized marsh bird that is found in a variety of marsh habitats with low, dense vegetation. Saltmarsh habitat exists onsite. No black rail calls were noted during limited surveys onsite.

Red-Cockaded Woodpecker Red-cockaded woodpeckers (RCWs) are black and white birds that reach around 9” in size. RCWs nest exclusively in self-made cavities in large, living pine trees that are typically 70+ years in age. No RCW calls were noted and no tree cavities were noted during preliminary surveys. Species not observed onsite.

Alligator Snapping Turtle Alligator snapping turtles are the largest freshwater turtle in North America, growing to 250 lbs., and have an almost prehistoric appearance with a spined shell, long tail and curved beak. This species is found primarily in rivers and backwater swamps but occasionally in brackish waters. Limited creek and habitat saltmarsh habitat exists onsite, species not observed onsite during preliminary surveys.

Eastern Indigo Snake The eastern indigo snake is a heavy bodied black snake that is locally extirpated and not known to exist in Walton County. The species inhabits a variety of ecosystems but is primarily known to coexist with gopher tortoise burrows. A gopher tortoise burrow survey was not completed as part of this preliminary survey. If indigo snakes do exist on the project site, they are likely to travel to adjacent parcels. Standard Protection Measures from USFWS will be utilized during construction.

Gulf sturgeon Gulf sturgeon are known to occur within Choctawhatchee Bay, north of the project site.

Monarch Butterfly The monarch butterfly is an orange and black butterfly that is often found in conjunction with native milkweed (Asclepias spp.) populations, none of which were noted onsite. It is possible that monarchs may pass through the site, but the limited amount of milkweed limits their potential utilization.

Additional Protected Species Not Included in USFWS IPaC:

Bald Eagle United States Fish and Wildlife Services regulates bald eagle nest trees (regardless of occupancy status), and sets forth requirements and limitations for activities that may occur within 660 feet and 330 feet (depending on time of year) of a nest. Although the bald eagle is no longer federally endangered, it remains protected by the Federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Full eagle nest surveys were not completed as part of this preliminary review, but literature review (using publicly available data from Florida Fish

Alderberry Rd - 90 Ac +/- Page 8 of 10 and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Audubon Eaglewatch) shows the existence of a bald eagle nest to the east, outside of the parcel boundary. The offsite nest location and nest buffers are shown in Exhibit 10. Bald Eagle Nest Location with buffers.

Gopher Tortoise Gopher tortoises are found in well drained, sandy soils, as well as along pastures, rights of way and roadways. A full gopher survey was not conducted as part of this preliminary review, but suitable habitat was identified during surveys. It is our recommendation that a full gopher tortoise survey of suitable habitats be conducted within 90 days of commencement of clearing.

Florida Pine Snake This stocky, fossorial snake prefers burrowing in dry sandy soils within sandhills, sand pine scrub and oldfields, coexisting with other burrowing wildlife like pocket gopher and gopher tortoises. Although no pine snakes were noted onsite during preliminary surveys, the species is known to exist in Walton County.

3.5.2 Outstanding Florida Waters

All waters of the state fall into one of five surface water classifications (62-302.400, F.A.C.).

An Outstanding Florida Water (OFW) is designated worth of special protection because of its natural attributes and the designation is applied to protect existing good water quality (62-302.700, F.A.C.). This project is not located within the boundaries of an OFW (Exhibit 11. Outstanding Florida Waters). The nearest OFW is adjacent to the property, and is designated as a portion of the Point Washington OFW.

3.5.3 Wildlife Conservation Zone

Walton County’s Ordinance Number 2009-03 establishes a Wildlife Conservation Zone that encompasses the area extending from the mean high water line (MHWL) to a line 750 feet landward of MHWL along the Gulf of Mexico from the Okaloosa County line to the Bay County line. The project is not located within this zone.

3.6 White Sand Protection Restrictions

Restrictions shall apply to the area located south of Scenic Gulf Drive (Old 98) eastward from the Okaloosa County line to its intersection with US 98, thence south of US98 to County Road 30A, thence south of County Road 30A eastward to the juncture of U.S. Highway 98 and the Bay County Line. The restricted area shall also include any lakes and adjoining land surrounding said lake, when it abuts County Road 30A (4.07.00). The project is not located within the White Sand Protection Zone.

3.7 Scenic Corridor Overlays

U.S 98 and U.S. 331 Scenic Corridor Overlay The purpose of this overlay is to limit the quantity of curb cuts; encouraging the use of cross-access corridors and joint-use driveways to increase safe access to commercial entities;

retaining natural vegetation and establishing a vegetative street-front canopy; creating and preserving green space between development; encouraging safe pedestrian and vehicular

Alderberry Rd - 90 Ac +/- Page 9 of 10 travel and parking in side and rear areas; and limiting the number and size of signs to maintain the natural beauty of the area The U.S. 98 Scenic Corridor width extends 400 feet north and 400 feet south of the outward edges of U.S. 98 right-of-way from the from the Okaloosa/Walton County line east to the Walton/Bay County line. The U.S. 331 Scenic Corridor width extends 400 feet east and 400 feet west of the outward edges of the U.S. 331 right-of-way from U.S.

98 north to the south end of the bridge at Choctawhatchee Bay (6.11.00). The subject parcel lies approximately 0.9 miles north of the U.S. 98 and U.S. 331 Scenic Corridor (Exhibit

12. Scenic Corridor Overlay).

Route 30A Scenic Corridor Overlay The purpose of this overlay is to preserve and maximize views of the Gulf of Mexico and to enhance the visual characteristics of the north and south sides of Route 30A right-of-way as well as the east and west rights-of-way of the connector roadways. A 20 foot scenic corridor setback from the adjacent outward edge of the existing right-of-way is required, except for properties designated Mixed Use for their Future Land Use (6.10.00). The subject parcel lies adjacent to Route 30A (Exhibit 10. Scenic Corridor Overlay), please see section 6.10.00 of Walton County’s Land Development Code for specific regulations within this zone. The subject parcel lies approximately 1.1 miles north of the Route 30A Scenic Corridor (Exhibit 12. Scenic Corridor Overlay).

4.0 Historical Resources Protections

The Florida Master Site File (FMSF) contains an inventory of Florida’s historical and cultural resources. A database search was requested for the subject parcel and submitted to the Florida Department of State, Division of Historical Resources to determine if any known recorded archaeological and cultural resources are located on or in the vicinity of the project. Appendix 3 includes information on the review of the FMSF Database, which includes a known archaeological resource onsite (WL02040 Eagle Creek 1), and a second resource within Choctawhatchee Bay.

5.0 Flood Zones

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides flood zone mapping to identify and map a community’s flood risk. As of October 2018, Walton County holds a rating of Class 6 as defined by FEMA’s Community Rating System (CRS). Exhibit 13. FEMA Flood Zone Map outlines the Flood Zones on the subject parcel. The majority of the site is categorized as FEMA Flood Zone AE and A. Approximately 40.0 acres are mapped as AE, 24.6 acres as A, 16.0 acres as X, 3.1 acres as VE, and 6.8 acres as 0.2% annual chance of flooding. The Limit of Moderate Wave Action line is shown on Exhibit 13 and delineates the inland limit of the 1.5-ft breaking wave height during the base flood. The site

6.0 Hazardous Substances

A preliminary investigation was conducted on the subject parcel to determine if there are any potential or existing hazardous substances that may have contaminated the property. Florida

Alderberry Rd - 90 Ac +/- Page 10 of 10

Department of Environmental Protections Map Direct Gallery was evaluated to determine if any documented information has been recorded for sites of concern including solid waste test sites, wastewater facility regulation (residual application), PFAS sites, emergency response staging sites, brownfield sites and areas, DEP cleanup sites, and site investigation section sites. No FDEP-designated Hazardous Sites are recorded on the subject parcel. Historical aerial imagery from the University of Florida’s Digital Collections were evaluated and no structures appear to be present on the parcel dating back to 1941 (Exhibit 12. 1941 Historical Aerial Imagery, Exhibit 13. 1969 Historical Aerial Imagery, and Exhibit 14. 2004 Historical Aerial Imagery). A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ASTM E 1527-13) was not completed on the property, but based on information found in the preliminary investigation and site review, it is unlikely that any hazardous materials are located on the property.

7.0 Summary of Findings

• Approximately 25.4 acres of wetlands occur on the property including State (25.4 ac) and

Federal (23.5 ac) Jurisdiction.

• Primary and secondary wetland zones occur on the subject parcel.

• The subject parcel is not located within the Coastal Protection Zone.

• The subject parcel is not located within the Coastal Dune Lake Protection Zone.

• The subject parcel is not located within the Coastal Hazard Zone.

• The subject property is located within a Shoreline Protection Zone.

• The project is located approximately 1.2 mile from the nearest wellhead protection zone.

• No listed species were located during the field survey and no critical habitats are located within the project area.

• This project does not include any Outstanding Florida Waters, the nearest OFW lies adjacent to the property (Point Washington).

• The project is not located within the Wildlife Conservation Zone.

• The project is not located within the White Sand Protection Zone.

• The subject parcel is approximately 0.9 miles north of the U.S. 98 and U.S. 331 Scenic

Corridor and 1.1 miles north of the Route 30A Scenic Corridor.

• Two known archaeological sites, historical structures or other resources have been previously surveyed on this property.

• The majority of the site is located within FEMA flood zone AE and A.

Appendix 1: Exhibits

Exhibit 1. Project Location

Exhibit 2. USGS Topographic Quadrangle

Exhibit 3. Current Aerial Imagery

Exhibit 4. Florida State Land Use Land Cover Classification

Exhibit 5. USGS Lower Choctawhatchee 2017 1-m Digital Elevation Model

Exhibit 6. NRCS Soil Survey

Exhibit 7. Wetland Delineation

Exhibit 8. Shoreline Protection Zone

Exhibit 9. Wellhead Protection Zone

Exhibit 10. Bald Eagle Nest Location

Exhibit 11. Outstanding Florida Waters

Exhibit 12. Scenic Corridor Overlay

Exhibit 13. FEMA Flood Zones

Exhibit 14. 1941 Historical Aerial Imagery

Exhibit 15. 1969 Historical Aerial Imagery

Exhibit 16. 2004 Historical Aerial Imagery

Exhibit 1.

Location Map Alderberry Road Walton County, Florida

F County Boundary

Walton County

Project Location Prepared By:

Red Oak Farms Consulting

Project Boundary

0 0.5 Mi

Parcel Numbers:

20-2S-20-33300-000-0090, 20-2S-20-33300-000-0050, 20-2S-20-33300-000-0052

Exhibit 2.

USGS Topographic Quadrangle Alderberry Road Walton County, Florida

F County Boundary

Walton County

Project Location Prepared By:

Red Oak Farms Consulting

Project Boundary

Project Centroid Coordinates

0 100 Ft

Parcel Numbers:

20-2S-20-33300-000-0090, 20-2S-20-33300-000-0050, 30°23'36.03"N, 86°16'23.13"W

Exhibit 3.

Current Aerial Imagery (02/24) Alderberry Road Walton County, Florida

F County Boundary

Walton County

Project Location Prepared By:

Red Oak Farms Consulting

Project Boundary

0 200 Ft

Parcel Numbers:

20-2S-20-33300-000-0090, Exhibit 4.

FLUCCS

Alderberry Road Walton County, Florida

F County Boundary

Walton County

Project Location Prepared By:

Red Oak Farms Consulting

Project Boundary

Land Use Classification 4110: Xyric Flatwoods 4110: Pine Flatwoods

5410: Embayments opening directly into the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic Ocean 6250: Hydric Pine Flatwoods

6300: Wetland Forested Mixed

6420: Saltwater Marshes

6460: Mixed Scrub-shrub Wetland

0 200 Ft

Parcel Numbers:

20-2S-20-33300-000-0090, Exhibit 5.

USGS Lower Choctawhatchee 2017 1-m Digital Elevation Model Alderberry Road Walton County, Florida

F County Boundary

Walton County

Project Location Prepared By:

Red Oak Farms Consulting

Project Boundary

FDEM Contours 1ft

0 200 Ft

Parcel Numbers: 20-2S-20-33300-000-0090, 20-2S-20-33300-000-0050, 20-2S-20-33300-000-0052

Exhibit 6.

NRCS Soil Survey Alderberry Road Walton County, Florida

F County Boundary

Walton County

Project Location Prepared By:

Red Oak Farms Consulting

Project Boundary

NRCS Soil Survey

HURRICANE SAND, 0 TO 5 PERCENT SLOPES

LEON SAND, 0 TO 2 PERCENT SLOPES

MANDARIN SAND, 0 TO 2 PERCENT SLOPES

RUTLEGE FINE SAND, 0 TO 2 PERCENT SLOPES

WATERS OF THE GULF OF MEXICO 0 200 Ft

Parcel Numbers:

20-2S-20-33300-000-0090, Exhibit 7.

Wetland Delineation Alderberry Road Walton County, FL

F Project Boundary

Types

Wetland (+/- 23.5 ac)

Isolated Wetland (+/- 1.9 ac)

County Boundary

Walton County

Project Location0 200 Ft Prepared By:

Red Oak Farms Consulting

Parcel Numbers:

20-2S-20-33300-000-0090, Exhibit 9.

Wellhead Protection Zone Alderberry Road Walton County, FL

F Project Boundary

Wellhead Protection Zone

Wellhead Location

County Boundary

Walton County

Project Location0 0.25 Mi Prepared By:

Red Oak Farms Consulting

Parcel Numbers:

20-2S-20-33300-000-0090, Exhibit 10.

Bald Eagle Nest Locations Alderberry Road Walton County, FL

F Project Boundary

660-ft Buffer Around Bald Eagle Nest

330-ft Buffer Around Bald Eagle Nest

Bald Eagle Nest Location

County Boundary

Walton County

Project Location0 200 Ft Prepared By:

Red Oak Farms Consulting

Parcel Numbers:

20-2S-20-33300-000-0090, Exhibit 11.

Outstanding Florida Waters Alderberry Road Walton County, FL

F Project Boundary

OFW

POINT WASHINGTON State Lands

County Boundary

Walton County

Project Location0 200 Ft Prepared By:

Red Oak Farms Consulting

Parcel Numbers:

20-2S-20-33300-000-0090, F Project Boundary

Scenic Coridor Name

Route 30A Scenic Corridor

U.S. 98 and U.S. 331 Scenic Corridor

County Boundary

Walton County

Project Location0 500 Ft

Exhibit 12.

Scenic Corridor Overlay Alderberry Road Walton County, FL Parcel Numbers:

20-2S-20-33300-000-0090, 20-2S-20-33300-000-0050, 20-2S-20-33300-000-0052

Prepared By:

FIRM 2020 LiMWA Flood Zones

0.2% Annual Chance Flood Hazard A

AE

VE

X

County Boundary

Walton County

Project Location0 200 Ft

Exhibit 13.

FEMA Flood Zones Alderberry Road Walton County, FL Parcel Numbers:

20-2S-20-33300-000-0090, 20-2S-20-33300-000-0050, 20-2S-20-33300-000-0052

Exhibit 14.

1941 Aerial Imagery Alderberry Road Walton County, FL

F Project Boundary

County Boundary

Walton County

Project Location0 200 Ft Prepared By:

Red Oak Farms Consulting

Parcel Numbers:

20-2S-20-33300-000-0090, Exhibit 15.

1969 Aerial Imagery Alderberry Road Walton County, FL

F Project Boundary

County Boundary

Walton County

Project Location0 200 Ft Prepared By:

Red Oak Farms Consulting

Parcel Numbers:

20-2S-20-33300-000-0090, County Boundary

Walton County

Project Location0 200 Ft

Exhibit 16.

2004 Aerial Imagery Alderberry Road Walton County, FL Parcel Numbers:

20-2S-20-33300-000-0090, 20-2S-20-33300-000-0050, 20-2S-20-33300-000-0052

Appendix 2: USFWS Official Species List

05/01/2024 21:47:53 UTC

United States Department of the Interior

FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE

Florida Ecological Services Field Office

777 37th St Suite D-101

Vero Beach, FL 32960-3559 Phone: (352) 448-9151 Fax: (772) 562-4288

Email Address: fw4flesregs@fws.gov https://www.fws.gov/office/florida-ecological-services

In Reply Refer To:

Project Code: 2024-0084735 Project Name: Alderberry Road

Subject: List of threatened and endangered species that may occur in your proposed project location or may be affected by your proposed project

To Whom It May Concern:

The enclosed species list identifies threatened, endangered, proposed and candidate species, as well as proposed and final designated critical habitat, that may occur within the boundary of your proposed project and/or may be affected by your proposed project. The species list fulfills the requirements of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) under section 7(c) of the Endangered Species Act (Act) of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).

New information based on updated surveys, changes in the abundance and distribution of species, changed habitat conditions, or other factors could change this list. Feel free to contact us if you need more current information or assistance regarding the potential impacts to federally proposed, listed, and candidate species and federally designated and proposed critical habitat.

Please include your Project Code, listed at the top of this letter, in all subsequent correspondence regarding this project. Please note that under 50 CFR 402.12(e) of the regulations implementing section 7 of the Act, the accuracy of this species list should be verified after 90 days. This verification can be completed formally or informally as desired. The Service recommends that verification be completed by visiting the IPaC website at regular intervals during project planning and implementation for updates to species lists and information. An updated list may be requested through the IPaC system by completing the same process used to receive the enclosed list.

The purpose of the Act is to provide a means whereby threatened and endangered species and the ecosystems upon which they depend may be conserved. Under sections 7(a)(1) and 7(a)(2) of the Act and its implementing regulations (50 CFR 402 et seq.), Federal agencies are required to utilize their authorities to carry out programs for the conservation of threatened and endangered mailto:fw4flesregs@fws.gov https://www.fws.gov/office/florida-ecological-services

Project code: 2024-0084735 05/01/2024 21:47:53 UTC species and to determine whether projects may affect threatened and endangered species and/or designated critical habitat.

A Biological Assessment is required for construction projects (or other undertakings having similar physical impacts) that are major Federal actions significantly affecting the quality of the human environment as defined in the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2) (c)). For projects other than major construction activities, the Service suggests that a biological evaluation similar to a Biological Assessment be prepared to determine whether the project may affect listed or proposed species and/or designated or proposed critical habitat. Recommended contents of a Biological Assessment are described at 50 CFR 402.12.

If a Federal agency determines, based on the Biological Assessment or biological evaluation, that listed species and/or designated critical habitat may be affected by the proposed project, the agency is required to consult with the Service pursuant to 50 CFR 402. In addition, the Service recommends that candidate species, proposed species and proposed critical habitat be addressed within the consultation. More information on the regulations and procedures for section 7 consultation, including the role of permit or license applicants, can be found in the "Endangered Species Consultation Handbook" at:

https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/endangered-species-consultation-handbook.pdf

Migratory Birds: In addition to responsibilities to protect threatened and endangered species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), there are additional responsibilities under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA) to protect native birds from project-related impacts. Any activity, intentional or unintentional, resulting in take of migratory birds, including eagles, is prohibited unless otherwise permitted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (50 C.F.R. Sec. 10.12 and 16 U.S.C. Sec. 668(a)). For more information regarding these Acts see https://www.fws.gov/program/migratory-bird-permit/what-we-do.

The MBTA has no provision for allowing take of migratory birds that may be unintentionally killed or injured by otherwise lawful activities. It is the responsibility of the project proponent to comply with these Acts by identifying potential impacts to migratory birds and eagles within applicable NEPA documents (when there is a federal nexus) or a Bird/Eagle Conservation Plan (when there is no federal nexus). Proponents should implement conservation measures to avoid or minimize the production of project-related stressors or minimize the exposure of birds and their resources to the project-related stressors. For more information on avian stressors and recommended conservation measures see https://www.fws.gov/library/collections/threats-birds.

In addition to MBTA and BGEPA, Executive Order 13186: Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds, obligates all Federal agencies that engage in or authorize activities that might affect migratory birds, to minimize those effects and encourage conservation measures that will improve bird populations. Executive Order 13186 provides for the protection of both migratory birds and migratory bird habitat. For information regarding the implementation of Executive Order 13186, please visit https://www.fws.gov/partner/council-conservation-migratory-birds.

We appreciate your concern for threatened and endangered species. The Service encourages Federal agencies to include conservation of threatened and endangered species into their project planning to further the purposes of the Act. Please include the Consultation Code in the header of this letter with any request for consultation or correspondence about your project that you submit to our office.

Attachment(s):

Official Species List USFWS National Wildlife Refuges and Fish Hatcheries Bald & Golden Eagles Migratory Birds Marine Mammals Wetlands

OFFICIAL SPECIES LIST

This list is provided pursuant to Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, and fulfills the requirement for Federal agencies to "request of the Secretary of the Interior information whether any species which is listed or proposed to be listed may be present in the area of a proposed action".

This species list is provided by:

Florida Ecological Services Field Office 777 37th St Suite D-101 Vero Beach, FL 32960-3559

(352) 448-9151

PROJECT SUMMARY

Project Code: 2024-0084735 Project Name: Alderberry Road Project Type: Residential Construction Project Description: Environmental Assessment Project Location:

The approximate location of the project can be viewed in Google Maps: https:// www.google.com/maps/@30.39343595,-86.27314248568265,14z

Counties: Walton County, Florida https://www.google.com/maps/@30.39343595,-86.27314248568265,14z https://www.google.com/maps/@30.39343595,-86.27314248568265,14z

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ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT SPECIES

There is a total of 8 threatened, endangered, or candidate species on this species list.

Species on this list should be considered in an effects analysis for your project and could include species that exist in another geographic area. For example, certain fish may appear on the species list because a project could affect downstream species.

IPaC does not display listed species or critical habitats under the sole jurisdiction of NOAA Fisheries , as USFWS does not have the authority to speak on behalf of NOAA and the Department of Commerce.

See the "Critical habitats" section below for those critical habitats that lie wholly or partially within your project area under this office's jurisdiction. Please contact the designated FWS office if you have questions.

NOAA Fisheries, also known as the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), is an office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration within the Department of Commerce.

https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/

MAMMALS

NAME STATUS

Tricolored Bat Perimyotis subflavus No critical habitat has been designated for this species.

Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/10515

Proposed Endangered

West Indian Manatee Trichechus manatus There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location does not overlap the critical habitat.

This species is also protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and may have additional consultation requirements.

Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/4469

Threatened

BIRDS

NAME STATUS

Eastern Black Rail Laterallus jamaicensis ssp. jamaicensis No critical habitat has been designated for this species.

Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/10477

Threatened

Red-cockaded Woodpecker Picoides borealis No critical habitat has been designated for this species.

Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/7614

Endangered

REPTILES

NAME STATUS

Alligator Snapping Turtle Macrochelys temminckii No critical habitat has been designated for this species.

Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/4658

Proposed Threatened

Eastern Indigo Snake Drymarchon couperi No critical habitat has been designated for this species.

Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/646

Threatened

FISHES

NAME STATUS

Gulf Sturgeon Acipenser oxyrinchus (=oxyrhynchus) desotoi There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location overlaps the critical habitat.

Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/651

Threatened

INSECTS

NAME STATUS

Monarch Butterfly Danaus plexippus No critical habitat has been designated for this species.

Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9743

Candidate https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/10515 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/4469 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/10477 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/7614 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/4658 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/646 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/651 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9743

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CRITICAL HABITATS

There is 1 critical habitat wholly or partially within your project area under this office's jurisdiction.

NAME STATUS

Gulf Sturgeon Acipenser oxyrinchus (=oxyrhynchus) desotoi https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/651#crithab

Final

USFWS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE LANDS

AND FISH HATCHERIES

Any activity proposed on lands managed by the National Wildlife Refuge system must undergo a 'Compatibility Determination' conducted by the Refuge. Please contact the individual Refuges to discuss any questions or concerns.

THERE ARE NO REFUGE LANDS OR FISH HATCHERIES WITHIN YOUR PROJECT AREA.

BALD & GOLDEN EAGLES

Bald and golden eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act .

Any person or organization who plans or conducts activities that may result in impacts to bald or golden eagles, or their habitats , should follow appropriate regulations and consider implementing appropriate conservation measures, as described in the links below. Specifically, please review the "Supplemental Information on Migratory Birds and Eagles".

The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940.

The Migratory Birds Treaty Act of 1918.

50 C.F.R. Sec. 10.12 and 16 U.S.C. Sec. 668(a)

There are likely bald eagles present in your project area. For additional information on bald eagles, refer to Bald Eagle Nesting and Sensitivity to Human Activity

For guidance on when to schedule activities or implement avoidance and minimization measures to reduce impacts to migratory birds on your list, see the PROBABILITY OF PRESENCE SUMMARY below to see when these birds are most likely to be present and breeding in your project area.

https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/651#crithab http://www.fws.gov/refuges/ https://www.fws.gov/media/supplemental-information-migratory-birds-and-bald-and-golden-eagles-may-occur-project-action https://www.fws.gov/law/bald-and-golden-eagle-protection-act https://www.fws.gov/law/migratory-bird-treaty-act-1918 https://www.fws.gov/Alaska-eagle-nesting no data survey effort breeding season probability of presence

NAME BREEDING SEASON

Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus This is not a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) in this area, but warrants attention because of the Eagle Act or for potential susceptibilities in offshore areas from certain types of development or activities.

https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1626

Breeds Sep 1 to Jul 31

PROBABILITY OF PRESENCE SUMMARY

The graphs below provide our best understanding of when birds of concern are most likely to be present in your project area. This information can be used to tailor and schedule your project activities to avoid or minimize impacts to birds. Please make sure you read "Supplemental Information on Migratory Birds and Eagles", specifically the FAQ section titled "Proper Interpretation and Use of Your Migratory Bird Report" before using or attempting to interpret this report.

Probability of Presence ( )

Green bars; the bird's relative probability of presence in the 10km grid cell(s) your project overlaps during that week of the year.

Breeding Season ( ) Yellow bars; liberal estimate of the timeframe inside which the bird breeds across its entire range.

Survey Effort ( ) Vertical black lines; the number of surveys performed for that species in the 10km grid cell(s) your project area overlaps.

No Data ( ) A week is marked as having no data if there were no survey events for that week.

SPECIES JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Bald Eagle Non-BCC Vulnerable

Additional information can be found using the following links:

Eagle Management https://www.fws.gov/program/eagle-management Measures for avoiding and minimizing impacts to birds https://www.fws.gov/library/ collections/avoiding-and-minimizing-incidental-take-migratory-birds https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1626 https://www.fws.gov/media/supplemental-information-migratory-birds-and-bald-and-golden-eagles-may-occur-project-action https://www.fws.gov/media/supplemental-information-migratory-birds-and-bald-and-golden-eagles-may-occur-project-action https://www.fws.gov/program/eagle-management https://www.fws.gov/library/collections/avoiding-and-minimizing-incidental-take-migratory-birds https://www.fws.gov/library/collections/avoiding-and-minimizing-incidental-take-migratory-birds

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Nationwide conservation measures for birds https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/ documents/nationwide-standard-conservation-measures.pdf Supplemental Information for Migratory Birds and Eagles in IPaC https://www.fws.gov/ media/supplemental-information-migratory-birds-and-bald-and-golden-eagles-may-occur-project-action

MIGRATORY BIRDS

Certain birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act .

Any person or organization who plans or conducts activities that may result in impacts to migratory birds, eagles, and their habitats should follow appropriate regulations and consider implementing appropriate conservation measures, as described in the links below. Specifically, please review the "Supplemental Information on Migratory Birds and Eagles".

The Migratory Birds Treaty Act of 1918.

The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940.

50 C.F.R. Sec. 10.12 and 16 U.S.C. Sec. 668(a)

For guidance on when to schedule activities or implement avoidance and minimization measures to reduce impacts to migratory birds on your list, see the PROBABILITY OF PRESENCE SUMMARY below to see when these birds are most likely to be present and breeding in your project area.

NAME

BREEDING

SEASON

Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus This is not a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) in this area, but warrants attention because of the Eagle Act or for potential susceptibilities in offshore areas from certain types of development or activities.

https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1626

Breeds Sep 1 to Jul 31

Black Scoter Melanitta nigra This is not a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) in this area, but warrants attention because of the Eagle Act or for potential susceptibilities in offshore areas from certain types of development or activities.

https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/10413

Breeds elsewhere

Black Skimmer Rynchops niger This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.

https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/5234

Breeds May 20 to Sep 15 https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/nationwide-standard-conservation-measures.pdf https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/nationwide-standard-conservation-measures.pdf https://www.fws.gov/media/supplemental-information-migratory-birds-and-bald-and-golden-eagles-may-occur-project-action https://www.fws.gov/media/supplemental-information-migratory-birds-and-bald-and-golden-eagles-may-occur-project-action https://www.fws.gov/media/supplemental-information-migratory-birds-and-bald-and-golden-eagles-may-occur-project-action https://www.fws.gov/media/supplemental-information-migratory-birds-and-bald-and-golden-eagles-may-occur-project-action https://www.fws.gov/law/migratory-bird-treaty-act-1918 https://www.fws.gov/law/bald-and-golden-eagle-protection-act https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1626 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/10413 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/5234

NAME

BREEDING

SEASON

Brown Pelican Pelecanus occidentalis This is not a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) in this area, but warrants attention because of the Eagle Act or for potential susceptibilities in offshore areas from certain types of development or activities.

https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/6034

Breeds Jan 15 to Sep 30

Brown-headed Nuthatch Sitta pusilla This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) in the continental USA https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9427

Breeds Mar 1 to Jul 15

Cerulean Warbler Setophaga cerulea This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.

https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/2974

Breeds Apr 26 to Jul 20

Chimney Swift Chaetura pelagica This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.

https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9406

Breeds Mar 15 to Aug 25

Chuck-will's-widow Antrostomus carolinensis This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) in the continental USA https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9604

Breeds May 10 to Jul 10

Coastal (waynes) Black-throated Green Warbler Setophaga virens waynei This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) in the continental USA https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/11879

Breeds May 1 to Aug 15

Common Loon gavia immer This is not a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) in this area, but warrants attention because of the Eagle Act or for potential susceptibilities in offshore areas from certain types of development or activities.

https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/4464

Breeds Apr 15 to Oct 31

Double-crested Cormorant phalacrocorax auritus This is not a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) in this area, but warrants attention because of the Eagle Act or for potential susceptibilities in offshore areas from certain types of development or activities.

https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/3478

Breeds Apr 20 to Aug 31

Eastern Whip-poor-will Antrostomus vociferus This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.

https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/10678

Breeds May 1 to Aug 20 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/6034 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9427 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/2974 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9406 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9604 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/11879 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/4464 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/3478 https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/10678

NAME

BREEDING

SEASON

Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.

https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9501

Breeds May 1 to Jul 31

Kentucky Warbler Geothlypis formosa This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental…