Guidelines for Mountain Stream Relocations in North Carolina

https://doi.org/10.21949/14038881979PDFTech ReportStreamsNatural resourcesEnvironmental impactsRoad constructionNorth CarolinaRelocationNorth Carolina. Division of HighwaysWingate, P.J.Bonner, W.R.Brown, R.J.Buff, B.M.Davies, J.H.Mickey, J.H.Ratledge, H.M.North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Division of Inland FisheriesNTL-HIGHWAY/ROAD TRANSPORTATION-Construction and MaintenanceNTL-ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT-Environment ImpactsUS Transportation CollectionRelocations of North Carolina's mountain trout streams traditionally have beena routine practice during road construction. This practice has been extremelydestructive to the state's fishery, wildlife and recreational sources, because proper environmental consideration was not given to these values during project designs. These values, however, must be included in future stream location decisions. It is recognized that some stream relocation is unavoidable, but damage to the abeam and its associated riparian vegetation can be mitigated with careful planning. Studies have shown that fish and wildlife resources can be maintained and even enhanced over those existing in the original channel, If careful planning and certain design criteria are utilized in relocating stream section. The following criteria constitute the recommendations of the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and are based on reviews of pertinent literature, field experience and consultation with representatives of appropriate stale and federal agencies. This report present standard guidelines for stream relocations which will facilitate road project reviews by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and assist engineers in designing projects. These guidelines only cover normal relocation projects. Those projects which have unavoidable engineering problems, or involve highly productive or important trout waters will require special review and recommendations by trained fishery biologists. To identify the proper person for consultation, contact the Division of Inland Fisheries, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611, phone 919-733-3633.84