Pages_from_Part_6-5_Part1.pdf

Russell Road: MCCDC toward Dunlap Circle WO# 862898 MCB Quantico, Virginia P-572

PART SIX - ATTACHMENTS

Attachment 14

Wetland Delineation Report

This Sheet Intentionally Left Blank

WETLAND DELINEATION SURVEY

FINAL REPORT

Widening of Russell Road from MCCDC Head Quarters to Catlin Avenue

Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia

Prepared For

Patton Harris Rust & Associates, Inc.

14532 Lee Road, Chantily, Virginia 20151-1679

Prepared By

Tidewater, Inc.

7161 Columbia Gateway Drive, Suite C

Columbia, Maryland 21046

Tidewater Job No. 5102

August 2012

Russell Road Widening Project, Marine Corps Base, Quantico, Virginia

August 2012 i

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Tidewater, Inc. (Tidewater) performed a wetland delineation survey for the widening of a segment of the Russell Road within the Marine Corps Base (MCB) in Quantico, Prince William County, Virginia. Field investigations were conducted on April 30 through May 4, 2011 to investigate and determine the boundaries of all wetlands within the survey limits of the project site. The presence of wetlands was documented based upon procedures prescribed in the Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual, and its regional supplement for the Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain region.

The survey revealed the presence of 10 wetlands in the survey limits of the project site. Among the wetlands identified and delineated, five are located north of the Russell Road, while the remaining five are located in the south. According to the Cowardin classification of wetlands, all five wetlands delineated in the northern area of the project site, and one wetland in the south belong to Palustrine, Forested wetland type. Four wetlands delineated in the southern area are linked to the Chopawamsic creek, and include a mixture of Palustrine and Riverine wetland types. Based on the final stage of design development plans, small areas of five of the delineated wetlands are located within the Limits of Disturbance (LOD) established for the proposed development activity. The total area of wetlands within the LOD is approximately 0.2 acres. Therefore, a Joint Permit Application (JPA) will need to be submitted to the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) at this stage of the design. The wetlands identified, however, are subject to an official Jurisdictional Determination by the Corps of Engineers.

August 2012 ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................................. i ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ...................................................................................... iii

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

1.2 Methodology

2.0 PROJECT SITE DESCRIPTION

2.1 Geology and Geomorphology

2.2 Soils

2.3 Hydrology

2.4 Vegetation

3.0 DELINEATION RESULTS

3.1Palustrine Forested Wetland NW1

3.2 Palustrine Forested Wetland NW2

3.3 Palustrine Forested Wetland NW3

3.4 Palustrine Forested Wetland NW4

3.5 Palustrine Forested Wetland NW5

3.6 Palustrine and Riverine Wetland SW1

3.7 Palustrine and Riverine Wetland SW2

3.8 Palustrine and Riverine Wetland SW3

3.9 Palustrine and Riverine Wetland SW4

3.10 Palustrine Wetland SW5

4.0 CONCLUSIONS

6.0 REFERENCES

LIST OF TABLES

Table 3.1 Summary of delineated wetland in the project site

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.1 Project site location Figure 1.2 Boundaries of survey area Figure 2.1 Aerial view of project site

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix A Data Sheets Appendix B Photolog Appendix C List of plants identified in the survey area Appendix D Map of the soil types in the survey area Appendix E Survey designs with limits of disturbance and location of delineated wetlands

August 2012 iii

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

FAC Facultative FACW Facultative Wetland FACU Facultative Upland GPS Global Positioning System

JPA

LOD

Joint Permit Application Limits of Disturbance

MCB Marine Corps Base MCCDC Marine Corps Combat Development Command NAVFAC Naval Facilities Engineering Command NRCS National Resources Conservation Service NWI National Wetland Inventory OBL Obligate USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service

USGS

VMRC

United States Geological Survey Virginia Marine Resources Commission

August 2012 1

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Tidewater, Inc. (Tidewater) was sub-contracted by Patton Harris Rust & Associates, Inc.

(PHR+A) under its Consulting Services Agreement with the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC), Contract # N40080-11-D-0496, Work Order # 862898, Widening of Russell Road, to investigate and delineate the presence of wetlands in the proposed development area within the Marine Corps Base (MCB) in Quantico, Prince William County, Virginia (Figure 1.1). The existing Russell Road is constrained in handling the increased traffic load created by the newly constructed facilities, and the planned future development along Route 1 will further aggravate the prevailing traffic conditions. The proposed project is intended to widen the Russell Road from two lanes to four lanes from the Marine Corps Combat Development Command Head Quarters (MCCDCHQ) to Catlin Avenue. The survey limits established for the proposed development on either side of the road segment range from 100 ft to 150 ft from the center of the road (Figure 1.2). The proposed development area within the MCB is referred to herein as the project site.

1.2 Methodology

A review of relevant secondary information was conducted prior to field investigations. The information reviewed included the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) satellite imagery (1992), USGS topographic maps (1998), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) soil data for MCB (2002), and National Wetland Inventory (NWI) maps.

A field reconnaissance was carried out at the project site on December 15, 2011. During the reconnaissance, any apparent or potential wetlands encountered were noted for closer inspection and delineation. Field investigations were conducted on April 30 through May 4, 2012 to investigate and determine the boundaries of all wetlands within the survey limits of the project site. The presence of wetlands was documented based upon procedures prescribed in the Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (Environmental Laboratory, 1987), and its regional supplement for the Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain region (USACE, 2010). As defined in the manual, wetlands are those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. The manual describes three parameters to determine the occurrence of jurisdictional wetlands; hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and wetland hydrology. An area is identified as a wetland only if it meets all three wetland parameters. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) regulates development in wetlands pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 CFR, Parts 320- 330). A summary of the parameters for determining the occurrence of jurisdictional wetlands are as follows:

August 2012 2

Hydrophytic Vegetation - Macrophytic plant life growing in water or on a substrate that is periodically deficient of oxygen as a result of excessive water content.

Hydrology - Permanent or periodic inundation or soil saturation to the surface for sufficient duration during the growing season to support hydrophytic vegetation.

Hydric Soil - A soil that formed under saturation, flooding, or ponding long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions in the upper part.

Field surveys consisted of identifying the vegetation, soils, and hydrology of potential wetland areas, and marking the boundaries of the wetlands using blue and white striped flagging chronologically numbered in the field for accurate survey retrieval. A data point (i.e., a circular plot with a radius of 30 ft) was established in potential wetlands to check for indicators of hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and wetland hydrology in conformance with the Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual.

At each data point, vegetation was identified and the indicator status of each species was noted, in accordance with the National List of Plant Species that Occur in Wetlands: Northeast (Region

1) (Reed, 1988). Percents of dominant vegetation with an indicator status of OBL (Obligate), FACW (Facultative Wetland), FAC (Facultative) were determined. The plant species were identified in the field using field guides such as Silberhorn (1999), and Tiner (1993). Specimens of a few plant species that could not be identified in the field were collected for further study and verification using other published resources.

For hydrology, primary indicators, including saturation, water marks, drift lines, oxidized root channels, water-stained leaves, and sediment deposits etc., were identified. Secondary indicators, such as drainage patterns, crayfish burrows, and moss trim lines were also noted.

Using an auger, a soil sample was taken from each data point to a maximum depth of 18 inches from the soil surface. Indicators of hydric soils, including Gleyed Matrix, Depleted Matrix, and Redox Dark Surface etc., were noted. Hydric soils were identified using the Munsell® Soil Color Chart. For soils lacking concentrations and depletions, if the chroma of the matrix (i.e., the dominant soil color) was one or less, the soil was considered hydric. For soils with concentrations and depletions, the soil was considered hydric if the matrix chroma was two or less. Soils were classified as hydric according to Hydric Soils of the United States (Soil Conservation Service, 1987).

Based on the observations made, the USACE wetland determination data forms for the three wetland parameters were completed in the field. For each potential wetland identified, a similar exercise was carried out at a nearby upland area in close proximity, in order to compare and contrast the parameters, and determine the boundary of the wetland. The location of each wetland and upland data points were obtained with a Magellan® hand held Global Positioning System (GPS) devise.

Following the above procedure, all jurisdictional wetlands occurring within the survey limits of the project site were delineated. The wetland areas associated with the Chopawamsic creek

August 2012 3 located in close proximity to the southern survey boundary of the project site were also delineated. Each wetland identified in the project site was classified according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Classification of Wetlands and Deep Water Habitats of the United States (Cowardin, et. al., 1979). Completed wetland determination data forms for each wetland are included in Appendix A. Photographs taken at data points and related wetland/upland boundaries are provided in Appendix B. The plants recorded from data points are listed in Appendix C.

August 2012 4

1.1 Project Site Location

Russell Road Widening Area Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia Tidewater Project No. 09-5102

Tidewater, Inc.

7161, Columbia Gateway Drive, Suite C Columbia, Maryland 21046 Source: USGS 7.5-Minute Topographic Map Quantico Quadrangle

Project Site

August 2012 5

2.0 PROJECT SITE DESCRIPTION

The project site is composed of a segment of the Russell Road, and adjoining undeveloped areas towards the north and the south (Figure 2.1). The MCCDCHQ and Catlin Avenue are located north of Russell Road, while the Chopawamsic Creek is located to the south. The extent of the survey area is approximately 16.56 acres, along a segment of 3, 545 ft of the Russell Road from east to the west.

2.1 Geology and Geomorphology

The project site is located in the Atlantic Coastal Physiographic Province. A review of the area geology from the available literature (Geologic Map of The QuanticoQuadrangle Prince William and Stafford Counties, Virginia and Charles County, Maryland, VA-MD U.S. Geological Survey, 1972) suggests that the project site is underlain by Alluvium (Qal), Terrace Deposits bordering tidal creeks and minor streams (Qt4) and Potomac Group (kp). The Alluvium is described as mud, sand, and gravel forming flood plains of minor streams and swamp and marsh land bordering tidal tributaries of the Potomac River. Terrace deposits bordering tidal creeks and minor streams consist of mostly sand and pebble to cobble gravel. The Potomac Group is described as very light gray to pinkish-gray, medium to very coarse feldspathic quartz sand;

green montmorillonite-illite clay and clayey sand; and dark yellowish brown to olive gray lignitic sandy silt and clay containing abundant poorly preserved leaf and stem impressions of ferns, cycads, and gymnosperms and rare silicified tree trunks. Coarse sand units are characterized by trough crossbedding and quartz and clay pebble conglomerates. Locally boulder size clay fragments are as much as 2 to 3 ft in maximum dimension. Unit thickness in the vicinity of Quantico is approximately 500 ft.

2.2 Soils

The soils occurring on MCB in Quantico were initially mapped by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) of U.S. Department of Agriculture in 1966 and were updated in 1995. The project site contains the following soil mapping units: Lunt Loam (34C,D), Kempsville Fine Sandy Loam (KfB), Alluvial Land (Ae), Freshwater Swamp (Fs), Aura- Galestown-Sassafras Complex (AwD), Caroline-Sassafras Complex (CdE), Sassafras Fine Sandy Loam (SfB, SfC), Woodstown Fine Sandy Loam (WoB), and Tidal Marsh (Tm). The Lunt Loam occurs in areas with 7-25% slope, and described as well drained soils occurring in hill slopes. The Kempsville Fine Sandy Loam occurs in areas with 2-6% slope, and described as well drained soils occurring in marine terraces. The Alluvial Land soil type occurs in areas with 0-6% slope, and described as poorly drained soils occurring in flood plains. The Freshwater Swamp soil type occurs in areas with 0-2% slope, and described as poorly drained soils occurring in swamps. The Aura-Galestown-Sassafras Complex soil type occurs in areas with 6-15% slope, and described as well drained soils occurring in marine terraces. The Caroline-Sassafras Complex soil type occurs in areas with 15-30% slope, and described as well drained soils occurring in marine terraces. The Sassafras Fine Sandy Loam occurs in areas with 2-10% slope, and described as well drained soils occurring in marine terraces. The Woodstown Fine Sandy Loam soil type occurs in areas with 2-6% slope, and described as moderately well drained soils occurring in marine terraces. The Tidal Marsh soil type occurs in areas with tidal marshes, and

August 2012 6 described as very poorly drained soils. Among these soil types, Alluvial, Freshwater Swamp, and Tidal Marsh are subjected to frequent flooding. A map of the soil types in the survey area is provided in Appendix D.

August 2012 7

2.1 Aerial Photograph

Russell Road Widening Area Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia

Tidewater Project No. 09-5102

Tidewater, Inc.

7161, Columbia Gateway Drive, Suite C Columbia, Maryland 21046

Source: Google Earth® 2012

Project Site

Chopawamsic Creek

August 2012 8

2.3 Hydrology

Major perennial streams near the project site include the Chopawamsic Creek to the south. An unnamed perennial stream to the east of the project site flows into the Chopawamsic Creek.

Similarly, an unnamed ephemeral stream to the west of the project site also flows into the Chopawamsic Creek. The project site is located within the Lower Potomac watershed in the Chopawamsic Creek sub watershed. Hydrology in the project site eventually flows into the Potomac River, and ultimately to the Chesapeake Bay. Two storm water management ponds are located north of the Russell Road, in the premises of the MCCDC HQ, and the Marsh Center, respectively.

The undeveloped area south of the Russell road is within a 100-year floodplain according to FEMA, Flood Insurance Rate Map.

Based upon the topographic information from the USGS 7.5-Minute Map (Figure 1.1) and the existing surface features, groundwater in the project site is presumed to flow in a southern direction towards the Chopawamsic Creek.

The National Wetlands Inventory Map of the Quantico, Virginia Quadrangle, produced by the the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) using high altitude aerial photographic analysis, indicate the presence of 28 mapped wetlands within a one-mile radius of the project site. All the mapped wetlands are located south of the Russell Road.

2.4 Vegetation

The MCB is located within the Eastern Deciduous Forest biome of North America. The primary forest habitat types at MCB include mast-producing hardwoods, nonmast-producing hardwoods, mixed pine-hardwoods, and conifers (MCBQ, 2001). The dominant plant communities at the project site include mast producing hardwood forests, non-mast producing hardwood forests, coniferous forests, and palustrine forested wetlands.

Mast producing hardwood forests with White Oak (Quercus alba), Northern Red Oak (Q. rubra), Southern Red Oak (Q. falcata), Pignut Hickory (Carya glabra), and American Beech (Fagus grandifolia), exist to the north of Russell road.

Non-mast producing hardwood forests occur mostly towards the south of Russell road. Principal tree species include Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), red maple (Acer rubrum), and tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), as well as smaller trees or shrubs such as Pawpaw (Asimina triloba), Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida), Ironwood (Carpinus caroliniana), and Spicebush (Lindera benzoin). This forest type occurs in most palustrine forested wetlands at MCB.

Coniferous forests dominated by Loblolly Pine (Pinus taeda) and/or Virginia Pine (P.

virginiana) occur towards the southwest and northeast corner of the project site. The coniferous forest patches are associated with historic human occupation in the area. These forest stands have developing understories of Oak, Hickory, Beech, Dogwood, Red Maple, and Sweetgum.

August 2012 9

3.0 DELINEATION RESULTS

A total of 10 wetlands were identified and delineated in survey area of the project site. Among the wetlands delineated, five (NW1, NW2, NW3, NW4, and NW5) are located north of the Russell Road, while five (SW1, SW2, SW3, SW4, and SW5) are located in the South (see Table 3.1). According to the Cowardin classification of wetlands, all five wetlands delineated in the northern area of the project site belong to Palustrine, Forested wetland type. Among the five wetlands delineated in the southern area, one (SW5) consist of Palustrine, Forested wetland type.

The remaining four wetlands in the south (SW1, SW2, SW3, and SW4) that are subjected to the tidal influence of the Chopawamsic creek consist of Palustrine, Forested Wetlands towards the Russell Road, and Riverine Tidal/Intertidal Emergent wetlands bordering the Chopawamsic creek. Based on the final stage of design development plans, small areas of three wetlands (NW2, NW3, and NW5) towards the north of Russell Road, and two wetlands (SW1 and SW5) towards the south are located within the Limits of Disturbance (LOD) established for the proposed development activity (Appendix E). The total area of wetlands located within the LOD is approximately 0.2 acres.

Table 3.1: Summary of Delineated Wetlands in the Project Site

Wetland

ID

Coordinates Wetland Type (Cowardin Classification) Approximate

Extent (Acres)

NW1 38°30.85’ N;

077°19.88’ W Palustrine, forested, broad- leaved, deciduous >1

NW2 38°30.67’ N;

077°19.49’ W

Palustrine, forested, broad- leaved, deciduous <1

NW3 38°30.70’ N;

077°19.14’ W

Palustrine, forested, broad- leaved, deciduous <1

NW4 38°30.71’ N;

077°19.07’ W

Palustrine, forested, broad- leaved, deciduous <1

NW5 38°30.71’ N;

077°18.94’ W

Palustrine, forested, broad- leaved, deciduous >1

SW1 38°30.81’ N;

077°19.89’ W

Palustrine, forested, broad- leaved, deciduous;

Riverine, tidal/intertidal emergent

>1

SW2 38°30.65’ N;

077°18.91’ W

Palustrine, forested, broad- leaved, deciduous;

Riverine, tidal/intertidal emergent

>5

SW3 38°30.64’ N;

077°19.13’ W

Palustrine, forested, broad- leaved, deciduous;

Riverine, tidal/intertidal emergent

>3

SW4 38°30.65’ N;

077°19.49’ W

Palustrine, forested, broad- leaved, deciduous;

Riverine, tidal/intertidal emergent

>3

SW5 38°30.70’ N;

077°19.68’ W

Palustrine, forested, broad- leaved, deciduous 0.1

August 2012 10

3.1Palustrine Forested Wetland NW1 This is a Palustrine Forested (broad-leaved, deciduous) wetland located in a narrow valley on either side of a branched perennial stream channel in the north-western area of the project site.

The dominant tree species in this wetland were Red Maple (Acer rubrum) and Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua); the dominant sapling and shrub was Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua); and the dominant herbaceous plants were Arrowleaf Tearthumb (Polygonum sagittatum), and Nepalese Browntop (Microstegium vimineum). The dominant plant species in tree, sampling and shrub strata of this wetland are facultative (FAC) indicators, while the herbaceous Arrowleaf Tearthumb facultative wetland (FACW) indicator. The dominance test result for hydrophytic vegetation in this site is 100%.

The soils mapped for the site include soils from the Ae – Alluvial Land, Wet, Soil Series (USDA NRCS). A description of soils sampled in the wetland data plot follows. A peaty root mat was present from 0 to 1 inch below ground surface (bgs). The soil interval from 0 to 6 inches bgs was observed as 80 % Gley 1 4/5G and 20% 5YR 5/3; wet, sandy silt. The soil from 6 to 18 inches bgs was noted as 95 % Gley 1 4/5G and 5% 5YR 5/3; wet, silty sand. Based on the soil characteristics, and reduced conditions indicated by glaying, these are hydric soils. Evidence of seasonal inundation, saturated very soft soils, was noted.

Wetland hydrology within wetland NW1 is due to alluvial flow and precipitation. The wetland is bounded on the east and west by hillsides. Russell Road creates a southern boundary to the wetland and retains subsurface groundwater within the wetland. A perennial stream flows north to south through the wetland toward Chopawamsic Creek. Precipitation adds to the localized seasonally increased inundation and saturated soils within the wetland. A pipe culvert crosses Russell Road from north to south and is set at an elevation that retains groundwater in the subsurface soils within the wetland. The flow in the stream channel contributes to lateral groundwater movement within the wetland. Water flowing and remaining in the stream channel flows through the pipe culvert under Russell Road and is proportional to the seasonal rainfall, to include the upstream watershed area.

3.2 Palustrine Forested Wetland NW2

This is a Palustrine Forested (broad-leaved, deciduous) wetland on either side of a perennial stream channel in the north-central area of the project site. The dominant tree species in this wetland were Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua) and Chestnut Oak (Quercus prinus); the dominant sapling were Red Maple (Acer rubrum) and Tulip Poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera); and the dominant herbaceous plant was New York Fern (Thelypteris noveboracensis). No Shrubs and/or woody vines were observed. Three dominant plant species (Sweet Gum, Red Maple, and New York Fern) in three strata of this wetland are facultative (FAC) indicators. The Chestnut Oak is an upland species, while the Tulip Poplar is a Facultative Upland species. The dominance test result for hydrophytic vegetation in this site is 60%.

The soils mapped for the site include soils from the Ae – Alluvial Land, Wet, Soil Series (USDA NRCS). A description of soils sampled in the wetland data plot follows. The soil interval from 0 to 3 inches bgs was observed as 100 % 10R 2.5/1; wet, silty loam. The soil from 3 to 6 inches

August 2012 11 bgs was noted as 70 % 10YR 4/2 and 30% 10YR 2.5/1; wet, sandy silt. The soil from 6 to 12 inches bgs was reported as 90% Gley 1 5/10FY and 10% 5YR 4/3; wet, sandy silt. The soil from 12 to 18 inches bgs was reported as 100% Gley 1 5/10FY; wet, sandy silt. Based on the soil characteristics, low chroma, hydrogen sulfide odor and glaying, these are hydric soils. Evidence of seasonal inundation, saturated very soft soils, was noted.

Wetland hydrology within wetland NW2 is due to alluvial flow and precipitation. The wetland is bounded on the east and west by hillsides. Russell Road creates a southern boundary to the wetland and retains subsurface groundwater within the wetland. A perennial stream flows north to south through the wetland toward Chopawamsic Creek. Precipitation adds to the localized seasonally increased inundation and saturated soils within the wetland. A pipe culvert crosses Russell Road from north to south and is set at an elevation that retains groundwater in the subsurface soils within the wetland. The flow in the stream channel contributes to lateral groundwater movement within the wetland. Water flowing and remaining in the stream channel

3.3 Palustrine Forested Wetland NW3

This is a Palustrine Forested (broad-leaved, deciduous) wetland on either side of a perennial stream channel in the northern area of the project site. The dominant tree species in this wetland were Red Maple (Acer rubrum) and Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis); the dominant shrub was Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua); the dominant herbaceous plant was Nepalese Browntop (Microstegium vimineum); and the dominant vine was Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica). No saplings were observed. Four dominant plant species (Sweet Gum, Red Maple, Nepalese Browntop, and Japanese Honeysuckle) in the four strata of this wetland are facultative (FAC) indicators. The other dominant tree species (Sycamore) is a facultative wetland (FACW) indicator. The dominance test result for hydrophytic vegetation in this site is 100%.

The soils mapped for the site include soils from the Ae – Alluvial Land, Wet, Soil Series (USDA NRCS). A description of soils sampled in the wetland data plot follows. The soil interval from 0 to 6 inches bgs was observed as 60 % 10YR 3/2 and 40% Gley 1 3/10Y; wet, silty loam. The soil from 6 to 12 inches bgs was noted as 100 % Gley 1 3/10Y; wet, sandy loam. The soil from 12 to 18 inches bgs was reported as 100% Gley 1 4/10Y; wet, sandy loam. Based on the soil characteristics, low chroma, and reduced iron conditions indicated by glaying, these are hydric soils. Evidence of seasonal inundation, saturated very soft soils, was noted.

Wetland hydrology within wetland NW3 is due to alluvial flow and precipitation. The wetland is bounded on the east and west by hillsides. Russell Road creates a southern boundary to the wetland and retains subsurface groundwater within the wetland. A perennial stream flows north to south through the wetland toward Chopawamsic Creek. Precipitation adds to the localized seasonally increased inundation and saturated soils within the wetland. A pipe culvert crosses Russell Road from north to south and is set at an elevation that retains groundwater in the subsurface soils within the wetland. The flow in the stream channel contributes to lateral groundwater movement within the wetland. Water flowing and remaining in the stream channel

August 2012 12

3.4 Palustrine Forested Wetland NW4

This is a Palustrine Forested (broad-leaved, deciduous) wetland on an elongated depression below Russell Road, associated with an ephemeral stream channel in the northern area of the project site. The dominant tree, sapling, and shrub species in this wetland were Red Maple (Acer rubrum) and Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua); the dominant herb was Softrush (Juncus effusus); and the dominant vine species were Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) and Greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia). Sweet Gum, Red Maple, Greenbrier, and Japanese Honeysuckle in four strata of this wetland are facultative (FAC) indicators. The dominant Softrush in the herb stratum is a facultative wetland (FACW) indicator. The dominance test result for hydrophytic vegetation in this site is 100%.

The soils mapped for the site include soils from the WoB – Woodstown Fine Sandy Loam, Soil Series (USDA NRCS). A description of soils sampled in the wetland data plot follows. The soil interval from 0 to 6 inches bgs was observed as 80 % 5Y 4/1 and 20% 5Y 6/1; wet, silty loam.

The soil from 6 to 18 inches bgs was noted as 90 % Gley 2 5/5BG and 10% 5YR 5/8; wet, sandy silt. Based on the soil characteristics, low chroma, reduced iron conditions indicated by glaying, and strong hydrogen sulfide odor, these are hydric soils. Evidence of seasonal inundation, saturated very soft soils, was noted.

Wetland hydrology within wetland NW4 is due surface water accumulation, alluvial flow and precipitation. The wetland is bounded on the west and north by hillsides. Russell Road creates a southern boundary to the wetland and retains subsurface groundwater within the wetland. An ephemeral stream flows north to south through the wetland toward Chopawamsic Creek.

Precipitation adds to the localized seasonally increased inundation and saturated soils within the wetland. A pipe culvert crosses Russell Road from north to south and is set at an elevation that retains groundwater in the subsurface soils within the wetland. The flow in the stream channel contributes to lateral groundwater movement within the wetland. Water flowing and remaining in the stream channel flows through the pipe culvert under Russell Road and is proportional to the seasonal rainfall, to include the upstream watershed area.

3.5 Palustrine Forested Wetland NW5

This is a Palustrine Forested (broad-leaved, deciduous) wetland on a concave and elongated depression below Russell Road, associated with an ephemeral stream channel in the north-eastern area of the project site. The dominant tree species were Red Maple (Acer rubrum), and Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica). Red Maple (Acer rubrum) was the dominant sapling. The dominant shrub species in this wetland was Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua). The herb stratum was dominated by Nepalese Browntop (Microstegium vimineum), and Mannagrass (Glyceria striata). Three species dominated the vine stratum; Greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia), Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron rotundifolia) and Summergrape (Vitis aestivalis). Sweet Gum, Red Maple, Greenbrier, Nepalese Browntop, and Poison Ivy in this wetland are facultative (FAC)

August 2012 13 indicators. Green Ash is a facultative wetland (FACW) indicator. The dominant Mannagrass in the herb stratum is an obligate wetland (OBL) indicator. The Summergrape vine is a facultative upland (FACU) indicator. The dominance test result for hydrophytic vegetation in this site is 88.9%.

The soils mapped for the site include soils from the WoB – Woodstown Fine Sandy Loam, Soil Series (USDA NRCS). A description of soils sampled in the wetland data plot follows. The soil interval from 0 to 6 inches bgs was observed as 90 % 5YR 5/4 and 10% Gley 2 3/10B; wet, silty loam. The soil from 6 to 18 inches bgs was noted as 90 % Gley 2 4/5BG and 10% 2.5YR 5/4;

wet, silty clay. Based on the soil characteristics, and reduced iron conditions indicated by glaying, these are hydric soils. Evidence of seasonal inundation, saturated very soft soils, was noted.

Wetland hydrology within wetland NW5 is due surface water accumulation, alluvial flow and precipitation. The wetland is bounded on the north by hillsides, and on the east by Catlin Avenue. Russell Road creates a southern boundary to the wetland and retains subsurface groundwater within the wetland. A perennial stream flows north to south through the wetland toward Chopawamsic Creek. Precipitation adds to the localized seasonally increased inundation and saturated soils within the wetland. A pipe culvert crosses Russell Road from north to south and is set at an elevation that retains groundwater in the subsurface soils within the wetland. The flow in the stream channel contributes to lateral groundwater movement within the wetland.

Water flowing and remaining in the stream channel flows through the pipe culvert under Russell Road and is proportional to the seasonal rainfall, to include the upstream watershed area.

3.6 Palustrine and Riverine Wetland SW1

This wetland starts as a Palustrine Forested (broad-leaved, deciduous) closer to the Russell Road end, and gradually transforms into a Riverine Tidal/Intertidal Emergent wetland type towards the Chopawamsic Creek. It is linked to NW1 wetland in the North through a perennial stream channel that flows into the Chopawamsic creek. The dominant tree species in this wetland was Red Maple (Acer rubrum); the dominant shrub was Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua); the dominant herbaceous plants were Nepalese Browntop (Microstegium vimineum) and Mannagrass (Glyceria striata); and the dominant woody vine was Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron radicans).

Among the dominant plant species, Mannagrass is an Obligate (OBL) indicator, while the remaining ones are facultative (FAC) indicators. The dominance test result for hydrophytic vegetation in this site is 100%.

The soils mapped for the site include soils from the Ae – Alluvial Land, Wet, Soil Series (USDA NRCS). A description of soils sampled in the wetland data plot follows. The soil interval from 0 to 6 inches bgs was observed as 50 % 10YR 4/4, and 50% 2.5YR 4/2; moist, mottled sandy silt.

The soil from 6 to 18 inches bgs was noted as 50% Gley 1 4/10GY, and 50% 2.5YR 4/3; moist, gleyed, silty sand. Based on the soil characteristics, sandy gleyed matrix, low chroma and presence of mottles, the surface soils are hydric soils.

Wetland hydrology within wetland SW1 is due to seasonal precipitation and the contribution

August 2012 14 from a perennial stream on the north side of Russell Road, which is piped under Russell Road into the wetland area. The effluent storm water from the pipe endwall fans out over the wetland area. Patches of surface water puddles was observed in the wetland. Subsurface low permeability soils inhibit percolation and contribute to sustaining this wetland. The wetland towards the edge of the Chopawamsic creek is subjected to daily tidal influence.

3.7 Palustrine and Riverine Wetland SW2

end, and gradually transforms into a wide Riverine Tidal/Intertidal Emergent wetland type towards the Chopawamsic Creek. It is linked to NW5 wetland in the North through a perennial stream channel that flows into the Chopawamsic creek. The dominant tree, sapling, and shrub species in this wetland was Red Maple (Acer rubrum); the dominant herbaceous plants was Nepalese Browntop (Microstegium vimineum); and the dominant woody vine species were Greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia), Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), and Summergrape (Vitis aestivalis). Among the dominant plant species, Summergrape is a facultative upland (FACU) species, while the remaining ones are facultative (FAC) indicators. The dominance test result for hydrophytic vegetation in this site is 85.7.

The soils mapped for the site include soils from the WoB – Woodstown Fine Sandy Loam, and Tm – Tidal Marsh Soil Series (USDA NRCS). A description of soils sampled in the wetland data plot follows. A layer of organic matter was present in the soil from 0 to 1 inch bgs. The soil from 1-6 inches bgs was observed as 50 % Gley 1 3/5GY, and 50% 10YR 3/3; wet, gleyed sandy loam. The soil from 6 to 12 inches bgs was noted as 80% 5 YR 5/8, and 20% Gley 1 3/5 GY;

moist, gleyed, silty sand. The soil from 12 to 18 inches bgs was noted as 100% Gley 2 4/10B;

moist, gleyed, sandy silt. Based on the soil characteristics, sandy gleyed matrix, low chroma, and presence of organic bodies, the surface soils are hydric soils.

Wetland hydrology within wetland SW2 is due to seasonal precipitation and the contribution from two perennial streams on the north side of Russell Road, which are piped under Russell Road into the wetland area. The effluent storm water from the pipe endwall fans out over the wetland area. Patches of surface water puddles was observed in the wetland. Subsurface low permeability soils inhibit percolation and contribute to sustaining this wetland. The wetland towards the edge of the Chopawamsic creek is subjected to daily tidal influence.

3.8 Palustrine and Riverine Wetland SW3

end, and gradually transforms into a narrow Riverine Tidal/Intertidal Emergent wetland type along the edge of the Chopawamsic Creek. It is linked to NW4 wetland in the North through a perennial stream channel that flows into the Chopawamsic creek. The dominant tree, and sapling species in this wetland was Red Maple (Acer rubrum); the dominant shrub was Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua); the dominant herbaceous plants were Nepalese Browntop (Microstegium vimineum), and New York Fern (Thelypteris noveboracensis); and the dominant woody vine species was Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica). All the dominant plant

August 2012 15 species observed are facultative (FAC) indicators. The dominance test result for hydrophytic vegetation in this site is 100.

The soils mapped for the site include soils from the SfC2 – Sassafras fine sandy loam, and Ae – Alluvial Land, Wet Soil Series (USDA NRCS). A description of soils sampled in the wetland data plot follows. The soil from 0-3 inches bgs was observed as 95 % 2.5 4/3, and 5% 5YR 6/6;

wet, mottled silty loam. The soil from 3 to 6 inches bgs was noted as 80% Gley 2 5/10B, and 20% 5YR 6/6; moist, mottled, sandy silt. The soil from 6 to 12 inches bgs was noted as 60% Gley 2 5/10B, and 40% 5YR 6/6; moist, mottled, sandy silt. The soil from 12 to 18 inches bgs was noted as 100% Gley 2 5/10B; moist, gleyed, sandy silt. Based on the soil characteristics, sandy gleyed matrix, and mottling, the surface soils are hydric soils.

Wetland hydrology within wetland SW3 is due to seasonal precipitation, the contribution of a perennial streams on the north side of Russell Road, and the tidal influence of the Chopawamsic creek. Subsurface low permeability soils inhibit percolation and contribute to sustaining this wetland. The wetland towards the edge of the Chopawamsic creek is subjected to daily tidal influence.

3.9 Palustrine and Riverine Wetland SW4

end, and gradually transforms into a narrow Riverine Tidal/Intertidal Emergent wetland type along the edge of the Chopawamsic Creek. It is linked to NW2 wetland in the North through a perennial stream channel that flows into the Chopawamsic creek. The dominant tree species in this wetland was Red Maple (Acer rubrum); the dominant sapling were Red Maple (Acer rubrum), Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua), and Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica); the dominant shrub as well as herbaceous species was Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis); and the dominant woody vine species were Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), and Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica). Among the dominant plants, Buttonbush is an Obligate (OBL) wetland indicator, and the Virgina Creeper is a facultative upland (FACU) indicator. The remaining dominant plant species observed are facultative (FAC) indicators. The dominance test result for hydrophytic vegetation in this site is 87.5.

The soils mapped for the site include soils from Ae – Alluvial Land, Wet Soil Series (USDA NRCS). A description of soils sampled in the wetland data plot follows. The soil from 0-3 inches bgs was observed as 95 % 10YR 3/3, and 5% 10YR 4/4; wet, silty sand. The soil from 3 to 18 inches bgs was noted as 100% Gley 2 5/10B; moist, gleyed, sandy silt. Based on the soil characteristics, and sandy gleyed matrix, these soils are hydric soils.

Wetland hydrology within wetland SW3 is due to seasonal precipitation, the contribution of a perennial stream on the north side of Russell Road, and the tidal influence of the Chopawamsic creek. The wetland towards the edge of the Chopawamsic creek is subjected to daily tidal influence.

August 2012 16

3.10 Palustrine Wetland SW5

This is a small and narrow Palustrine Forested (broad-leaved, deciduous) wetland associated with an ephemeral stream channel below Russell Road. Unlike other wetlands identified in the South, this wetland does not extend into the Chopawamsic Creek. The dominant tree species in this wetland were Red Maple (Acer rubrum), White Oak (Quercus alba), and Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua); the sapling stratum was dominated by American Holly (Ilex opaca), Dogwood (Cornus florida), and Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua). The dominant shrub was American Hornbeam/ Ironwood (Carpinus caroliniana), The herb stratum was dominated by Small-spike False Nettle (Boehmeria cylindrica), Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis), and Hillside Blueberry (Vaccinium pallidum); and the dominant vine species are Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) and Greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia). The White Oak, American Holly, and Dogwood are Facultative Upland (FACU) indicators, while the Small- Spike False Nettle and Sensitive Fern are Facultative Wetland (FACW) indicators. The remaining dominant are facultative (FAC) indicators.The dominance test result for hydrophytic vegetation in this site is 72.7%. .

The soils mapped for the site include soils from the 34C–Lunt Loam, 7-15% slopes, and KfB- Kempsville Fine Sandy Loam Soil Series (USDA NRCS). A description of soils sampled in the wetland data plot follows. The soil interval from 0 to 3 inches bgs was observed as 100 % 10YR 4/2; wet, silty sand. The soil from 3 to 6 inches bgs was noted as 100 % Gley 1 4/5/GY; moist sandy silt. The soil from 6 to 18 inches bgs was noted as 70 % Gley 1 4/5/GY, and 5YR 6/8;

moist, mottled sandy silt. Based on the soil characteristics, reduced iron conditions indicated by glaying, and redox features indicated by mottling, these are hydric soils.

Wetland hydrology within wetland NW5 is due to intermittent surface water accumulation, alluvial flow and precipitation. The wetland is bounded on the west and east by hillsides.

Russell Road creates a northern boundary to the wetland

August 2012 17

4.0 CONCLUSIONS

Potential jurisdictional wetlands were delineated at the project site consistent with the Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual, and its regional supplement for the Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain region. These wetlands were characterized by a predominance of hydrophytic vegetation, the presence of hydric soil indicators, and evidence of wetland hydrology. The wetlands identified, however, are subject to an official Jurisdictional Determination by the Corps of Engineers.

Of the 10 wetlands identified and delineated within the project site, five wetlands (NW2, NW3, NW5, SW1, SW5) have areas which occur within the Limits of Disturbance (LOD) established at the final stage of design development plans for the proposed development work. The total area of wetlands within the LOD is approximately 0.2 acres. Therefore, a Joint Permit Application (JPA) will need to be submitted to the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) at this stage of the design.

August 2012 18

6.0 REFERENCES

Environmental Laboratory. 1987. “Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual.” Technical Report Y-87-1, U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 2010. Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region (Version 2.0), ed. J.S. Wakeley, R.W. Lichvar, and C.V. Noble. ERDC/EL TR-10-20. Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center.

Reed, P.B., Jr.1988. National list of plant species that occur in wetlands: national summary. U.S.

Fish Wildl. Serv. Biol. Rep. 88(24). 244 pp.

Cowardin, L.M., V. Carter, F.C. Golet, E.T. LaRoe. 1979. Classification of wetlands and deepwater habitats of the United States. U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington, D.C.

MCBQ (2001). Marine Corps Base Quantico. Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan – Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia.

Gleason, H. A. and Cronquist, A. 1991. Manual of Vascular Plants of the Northeastern United States and Adjacent Canada. 2nd Edition. New York Botanical Garden. New York, New York.

Godfrey, R.K. and Wooten, J.W. 1979. Aquatic and wetland plants of southeastern United States: Monocotyledons. University of Georgia Press. Athens, Georgia.

Harvill Jr, A.M., Bradley, T.R., Stevens, C.E., Wieboldt, T.F., Ware, D.M.E., Ogle, D.W., Ramsey, G.W. and Fleming, G.P. 1977. Atlas of Virginia Flora. Virginia Botanical Associates.

Farmville, Virginia.

Silberhorn, G. E. 1999. Common Plants of the Mid-Atlantic Coast: A Field Guide. John Hopkins University Press. Baltimore, Maryland.

Tiner, R. W. 1993. Field Guide to Coastal Wetland Plants of the Southeastern United States.

University of Massachusetts Press. Amherst, Massachusetts.

United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service. 2011.

PLANTS Database. http://plants.usda.gov/java/

United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service. Web Soil Survey 2012. http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/WebSoilSurvey.aspx

Virginia Department of Forestry. 2010. Common Native Trees of Virginia. Tree Identification Guide.

APPENDIX A

Data Forms