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Environmental Policy Act Review
03-8 !-10 io:6/u LJ Drash Co nsulting Engineers, Inc. NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT REVIEW VARSITY FORD TOWER SITE SITE NUMBER K021A COLLEGE STATION, BRAZOS COUNTY, TEXAS Prepared for: T- Mobile Houston, Texas Prepared by: Drash Consulting Engineers, Inc. San Antonio, Texas DCE Project N 202H1377 November 26, 2002 J1 Drash Consulting ■ Engineers, Inc. /•■ D rash Consulting Engineers, Inc. Geotechnical • Construction Materials Testing • Environmental November 26, 2002 SUBJECT Ms. Nickie Shelton NEPA Review T- Mobile Varsity Ford Tower Site 2 Greenway Plaza, Suite 1100 Site N K021A Houston, Texas 77046 College Station, Brazos County, Texas DCE Project N 202H1377 Dear Ms. Shelton: Drash Consulting Engineers, Inc. (DCE) performed a National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Review for a 75 -foot by 75 -foot tract of land located at 1351 Earl Rudder Freeway South (Highway 6) in College Station, Brazos County, Texas. Our scope of services was performed in accordance with a Professional Service Agreement Dated July 9th 2002. This work is based on a limited review of specified and reasonably obtainable data associated with NEPA issues. We have observed the standard of care generally exercised by the profession under similar circumstances and conditions to complete this NEPA review. The information collected for this project is confidential and will not be released to anyone other than to those shown on the distribution without your authorization. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We appreciate the opportunity to perform this service for you. Very Truly Yours, Drash Consulting Engineers, Inc. --.61/1/](//v1 0.6/Y)> Susan A. Harris e A. L bert Project Biologist Manager Environmental Division vironmental Division SAH /JAL /sjl — 202H1377 Copies Submitted: (3) Ms. Nickie Sheldon, T- Mobile San Antonio 4926 Research Drive • San Antonio, Texas 78240 PO. Box 781208 • San Antonio, Texas 78278 -1208 (210) 641-2112 • (800) 332 -1728 • Fax: (210) 641 -2124 Email drash @drashce com Brownsville • Harlingen • Laredo • Pharr • San Antonio TABLE OF CONTENTS CONCLUSIONS 1 NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT (NEPA) REVIEW 1 Wilderness Areas and Wildlife Preserves 1 Threatened Species, Endangered Species and Critical Habitat Review 1 Cultural Resources Review 5 Floodplains Information 5 Wetlands Review 5 Surface Features 6 Wild and Scenic Rivers 6 Coastal Dunes, Beaches and Barriers 6 Sole Source Aquifers 6 Natural Landmarks 6 Residential Neighborhood 6 NEPA CHECKLIST 6 FIGURES Figure 1: Vicinity Map Figure 2: Site Layout Figure 3: Topographic Map Figure 4: FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map Figure 5: USFWS National Wetlands Inventory Map APPENDIX A — Threatened Species, Endangered Species and Critical Habitat Review APPENDIX B — Pictures of Threatened and Endangered Species APPENDIX C — Texas Historical Commission Responses APPENDIX D— NEPA Checklist �, Project N 202H1377 Drash Consulting `�� Engineers, Inc. CONCLUSIONS Based upon the available data gathered for this NEPA Review, there does not appear to be evidence that would suggest NEPA environmental concerns exist at the site. According to information obtained from GeoSearch, one federally and state endangered and one globally and state imperiled species were identified with the potential of occurring within the site vicinity. The federally and state endangered species is identified as the Navasota Ladies' - tresses (Spiranthes parksii) plant. The site contains tall grasses and weeds and the environmental specialist that completed the fieldwork did not observe the species at the site. Although this species was not identified, suitable habitat may exist at the site. Therefore, DCE recommends that caution be exercised during construction activities. If this species is observed, construction activities should be halted and DCE notified immediately, at which time a DCE biologist will contact the USFWS to ensure proper measures are taken to secure the safety of this species. The globally and state imperiled species is identified as Branched Gay- Feather (Liatris cymosa) plant. The environmental specialist that completed the fieldwork did not observe the species at the site. The Branched Gay- Feather is not federally or state ranked at this time. NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT (NEPA) REVIEW Site Information. The 75 -foot by 75 -foot tract of land, herein referred to as the "site ", is located at 1351 South Earl Rudder Freeway (Highway 6) in College Station, Brazos County, Texas. The site is the proposed location of a 115 -foot monopole tower and prefabricated equipment building. A Vicinity Map (Figure 1), Site Layout (Figure 2), Topographic Map (Figure 3), FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map (Figure 4), and USFWS National Wetland Inventory Map (Figure 5) are included at the end of this report. NEPA environmental assessments procedures are provided in 47 CFR 1.1307. The following NEPA issues were reviewed for the site: Wilderness Areas and Wildlife Preserves. The site is not located on a federal or state wilderness area or wildlife preserve according to a review of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the United States Forest Service, the United States Bureau of Land Management, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and the United States National Park Service databases conducted by GeoSearch. A copy of this report is provided in the appendices. Threatened Species, Endangered Species and Critical Habitat Review. The site is not in an area determined to be critical habitat according to our review of 50 CFR 17.94 through 17.96. A threatened species, endangered species, and critical habitat review was conducted by GeoSearch. A review of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department databases (TPWD) and the Texas Biological 417 C Project N° 202111377 Drash onsulting Page 1 4 Engineers, Inc. and Conservation Data System (TBCDS) indicated that no endangered species have been documented at the site. According to information obtained from GeoSearch, one federally and state listed endangered species has the potential of occurring within the site vicinity. This species is identified as the Navasota Ladies' - tresses (Spiranthes parksii) plant species. Although the environmental specialist that completed the fieldwork did not observe the species at the site, suitable habitat may exist at the site. Therefore, DCE recommends that caution be exercised during construction activities. Also, a federally and state rare and globally imperiled species also has the potential of occurring within the site vicinity. This species is identified as Branched Gay- Feather (Liatris cymosa) plant. The environmental specialist that completed the fieldwork did not observe the species at the site. This species is not federally or state ranked. Federally and state listed threatened or endangered species known to occur in Brazos County include the Houston Toad (Bufo houstonensis), Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), Navasota ladies' - tresses (Spiranthes parksii), and the Whooping Crane (Grus americana). A copy of the review is provided in the appendices. • Houston Toad (Bufo houstonensis) The Houston Toad is a federally and state listed endangered species occurring in Brazos County. These medium sized amphibians are generally brown and speckled and have a slightly reddish, yellowish, or grayish hue. These toads have dark bands across their legs, and two dark bands extending from each eye down to the mouth. Houston Toads are found in pine and/or oak woodlands underlain by pockets of deep sandy soils, with temporary pools of water available for breeding. This habitat type occurs within narrow bands of geologic formations in south central Texas. The soil at the site consists of a sandy clay loam and is covered in grasses and shrubs. Based on available information, it is unlikely that suitable habitat exists for the Houston Toad at the site. • Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) The Bald Eagle is a federally and state listed threatened species occurring in Brazos County. They are large birds primarily associated with coasts, rivers, and lakes, usually nesting near bodies of water where they feed. Large, tall trees used for nesting and roosting include loblolly pine, bald cypress, various oaks, cottonwood, and sycamore. Three elements seem to be consistent among nest site selection and include: (1) the proximity of water (usually within one -half mile) (2) the largest living tree in a span and (3) an open view of the surrounding area. No trees are located on the site. Based on available information, it is unlikely that suitable habitat exists for the Bald Eagle at the site. • Whooping Crane (Grus americana) Whooping cranes are a federally endangered species potentially migrating through Brazos County. These large five -foot tall, birds inhabit marshes and prairie potholes in the summer. In winter, they are found in coastal marshes and prairies. Whooping cranes breed and nest in isolated areas along lake margins, rushes, sedges, marshes, meadows and other wetland communities. The site is undeveloped land covered in grasses and weeds. No lakes or marshes are located on the property. Based on this information, no evidence of suitable habitat for nesting Whooping cranes was observed on the site. • Navasota ladies'- tresses ( Spiranthes parksii) �, Project N° 202H1377 7 Drash Page 2 Consulting `. Engineers, Inc. The Navasota ladies'- tresses is a federally and state endangered species found in Brazos County. This plant is found in margins and openings of post oak woodlands and in sandy loams along intermittent tributaries of rivers. This species flowers in late October and early November. The site contains tall grasses and weeds and the environmental specialist that completed the fieldwork did not observe the species at the site. Although this species was not identified, suitable habitat may exist at the site. Therefore, DCE recommends that caution be exercised during construction activities. If this species is observed, construction activities should be halted and DCE notified immediately, at which time a DCE biologist will contact the USFWS to ensure proper measures are taken to secure the safety of this species. State listed threatened and endangered species occurring in Brazos County include the Artic Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus tundrius), Wood Stork (Mycteria americana), Blue Sucker (Cycleptus elongates), Rafinesque's Big -Eared Bat (Corynorhinus rafinesquii), Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macroclemys temminckii), Texas Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma Cornutum), and the Timber /Canebrake Rattlesnake (Crotalus Horridus). Additional information on these species is provided below. • Artic Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus tundrius) The Artic Peregrine Falcon is a state listed threatened species occurring in Brazos County. These birds can be differentiated from the American Peregrine Falcon by their lighter color and smaller size. The Arctic Peregrine Falcon is found in mountainous areas near water sources. Based on this information, it is unlikely that suitable habitat exists for the Artic Peregrine Falcon at the site. • Wood Stork ( Mycteria americana) The Wood Stork is a state listed threatened species occurring in Brazos County. These large wading birds are found in shallow ponds and sloughs. These birds nest on islands or in tall trees over water, usually in the treetops of cypress or mangrove swamps. Based on this information, it is unlikely that suitable habitat exists for the Wood Stork at the site. • Blue Sucker (Cycleptus elongates) The Blue Sucker is a state listed threatened species occurring in Brazos County. They are gregarious fish that have an elongate body with a small head and a blue back with a white underside. Blue Suckers are bottom feeders and prefer large, deep rivers and deep zones of reservoirs with moderate to swift currents of narrow channels. The Blue Sucker spawns from late April to early May at water temperatures of 50 -60 degrees Fahrenheit. Based this information, no suitable habitat exists for the Blue Sucker at the site. • Rafinesque's Big -Eared Bat ( Corynorhinus rafinesquii) The Rafinesque's Big -Eared Bat is a state listed threatened species occurring in Brazos County. This species roosts in cavity trees of bottomland hardwoods, concrete culverts, and abandoned man -made structures. Based on this information, it is unlikely that suitable habitat for the Rafinesque's Big -Eared Bat exists at the site. Project N° 202111377 7 Drash Page 3 Consulting Engineers, Inc. • Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macroclemys temminckii) The Alligator Snapping Turtle is a state threatened species occurring in Brazos County. The Alligator snapping turtle is the largest freshwater turtle in Texas. Their large, triangular head with strongly hook beak easily identifies these turtles. They have a very long tail and the carapace is oval shaped and gray to brownish black in color. Scales on their back form three, high peaked rows. These turtles live in rivers, sloughs, oxbows and lakes; they sometimes enter brackish waters. They are most at home in deep rivers and lakes with muddy bottoms. Based on this information, it is unlikely that suitable habitat exists for the Alligator Snapping Turtle at the site. • Texas Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma cornutum) The Texas Horned Lizard is a state listed threatened species occurring in Brazos County. These small lizards are found in arid and semiarid habitats in open areas with sparse plant coverage throughout. These lizards prefer loose sand or loamy soils for nesting and insulation purposes. Based on this information, it is unlikely that suitable habitat exists for the Texas Horned Lizard at the site. • Timber /Canebrake Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) The Timber /Canebrake Rattlesnake is state listed threatened species occurring in Brazos County. These poisonous snakes are equipped with a broad triangular head, vertical pupils, and may be yellow, gray, dark brown or black with V- shaped crossbands across the back. The preferred habitat includes dense forests with a thick understory for foraging. The mating season occurs in the summer or fall, and females give birth from mid - August through September. Based on this information, it is unlikely that suitable habitat exists for the Timber /Canebrake Rattlesnake at the site. Our observations indicate that the site is undeveloped land covered in tall grass and weeds. Based on visual observations, topographic maps, and publicly available information, it is DCE's opinion that: 1. The proposed site may contain suitable habitat for the federally endangered Navasota Ladies'- tresses (refer to point No. 2 below). Habitat for federally threatened or endangered plants is not protected. Although this species was not observed during the site reconnaissance, DCE recommends that caution be exercised during construction activities. The site does not likely contain suitable habitat for the remaining federally and state threatened or endangered species listed for Brazos County. If any of the species listed for the county are observed, construction activities should be halted and DCE notified immediately, at which time a DCE biologist will contact the USFWS to ensure proper measures are taken to secure the safety of these species. 2. According to information obtained from GeoSearch, one federally and state listed endangered species has the potential of occurring within the site vicinity. This species is identified as the Navasota Ladies'- tresses (Spiranthes parksii) plant. The site contains tall grasses and weeds and the environmental specialist that completed the fieldwork did Project N 202H1377 Drash Page 4 Consulting ` * Engineers, Inc. not observe the species at the site. Although this species was not identified, suitable habitat may exist at the site. Therefore, DCE recommends that caution be exercised during construction activities. If this species is observed, construction activities should be halted and DCE notified immediately, at which time a DCE biologist will contact the USFWS to ensure proper measures are taken to secure the safety of this species. 3. According to GeoSearch, one federally and state rare and globally imperiled species has the potential of occurring within the site vicinity. This species is identified as Branched Gay- Feather (Liatris cymosa) plant. The environmental specialist that completed the fieldwork did not observe the species at the site. The Branched Gay- Feather is not federally or state ranked. 4. Due to the small size of land, proximity to Highway 6, and minimal construction period, DCE concluded that 115 -foot monopole tower and associated prefabricated equipment building are not likely to adversely affect the continued existence of state and federally threatened or endangered species. Cultural Resources Review. The site was submitted to the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) of the Texas Historical Commission for their review of cultural resources. According to a letter dated October 9, 2002 from the SHPO Office, an Archaeological Survey of the site is required. Therefore, an Archaeological Survey of the site was performed and submitted to the SHPO Office on November 1, 2002. Based on SHPO responses dated November 21, 2002, the site is not eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Place. No further review of the site as it affects this property is required. A copy of the SHPO responses are included in the appendices. While no Native American religious grounds or archeological deposits are known to be in the area of the site, buried cultural materials may be present. If such materials are encountered during construction or disturbance activities, work should cease in the immediate area. Work may continue in the area of the site where no archeological deposits are present. In such a situation, the Advisory Council on Historical Preservation, Western Officer of Project Review, should be contacted at (303) 231 -5320, in accordance with 36 CFR 800.11(b)(2). Please also notify the State Historical Preservation Officer at (512) 463 -6096. Floodplains Information. The site is designated Zone X according to the FEMA National Flood Insurance Program Flood Insurance Rate Map, Panel 142 of 250, for Brazos County, Texas and Incorporated Areas, Community Panel Number 48041C0142 C, effective July 2, 1992. Zone X is determined to be an area of outside the 500 -year floodplain. Wetlands Review. The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) define wetlands as follows: Those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water 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. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas. Project N° 202H1377 Drash Page 5 IN Consulting * Engineers, Inc. The USACOE uses three characteristics when making wetland determinations: • hydrophytic vegetation • hydric soils • hydrology indicators Based on our site visit, the site does not exhibit the above wetlands characteristics. The USACOE is responsible for administering Section 404 of the Clean Water Act permitting process for alterations of wetlands. The appropriate USACOE Office makes the final determination of whether an area is a wetland. The Bryan East, Texas USFWS National Wetlands Inventory Map, 1993, indicates the site is not located in a mapped wetland area. A copy USFWS National Wetlands Inventory Map is provided in the appendices. Surface Features. Construction at this site will not impose significant change to the surface features of the area, according to the information provided by the client to DCE. Wild and Scenic Rivers. No wild and scenic rivers are located on the site according to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Database, which is maintained by the United States National Park Service. Coastal Dunes, Beaches and Barriers. No undeveloped dunes, beaches, or coastal barriers are located on the site according to the Coastal Barriers Resource System, which is maintained by the USFWS. Sole Source Aquifers. The site is not located over a sole source aquifer, according to the EPA Region VI, Sole Source Aquifer Office, Dallas, Texas. The EPA has designated the Edwards Aquifer as the only sole source aquifer in Texas. Natural Landmarks. No registered natural landmarks are located on the site according to the National Registry of Natural Landmarks maintained by the United States National Park Service. Residential Neighborhood. High intensity lights are not anticipated at this time according to the information provided by the client to DCE. For the above NEPA review, DCE has documented specific sources or provided source documentation in the appendices of this report. NEPA CHECKLIST The provided NEPA Checklist is included in the appendices of this report. The checklist has been completed based on information contained in this report. , Project N 202H1377 Drash Page 6 % Consulting Engineers, Inc FIGURES Figure 1: Vicinity Map Figure 2: Site Layout Figure 3: Topographic Map Figure 4: FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map Figure 5: USFWS National Wetlands Inventory Map J/•- Drash Project N° 202H1377 " Consulting ` �� Engineers, Inc. % " - e ,. 4 ie ..-TED Cc 91 1117-1*Y ‘' '''t , 4211-,,,_ c \ n Qty cp • B ra �Q- N•1■ v44 _, 19pr ' ' .- t ** \11\1\ 1100 ' r ' 3 I 42.4,r �� ■ \` N n • A 1� 1pZ0$ y`1 _C' 0 / Ck2S O Maki. • a ,o, rY tu IED ci CC L 't�� o o .40. ' arvey o a fe V y • \�d `�? c, J o :I' ! \ \ 17 , .', , I i ll i‘t, .. S . ,�f+� \ 6. 10 k tun, PROJECT SITE C',e I °Loom �` . \� Q 9 �� o q9 Y • " .t . ... op .014 �VE�`s� oR . 5 Q` °P ., , Q9 ui r ..,- ,s,,,N, 2, .\\ _ • • L, I- - Q-- cp 0 4 4.:,‘ , 1 - . '*. 4 . 1;°! ' l'Ofy Z " * (4 , m ,..: . 9). v . 4, ...:i. .14,cc e 1 144 II\ A* cl 4411 1111k c , /tyr , ‘ . <4, . N c. k o. lik. � M i �•• O` f Pen Creek q $ ACT:s, • 4:' \> i&t. Illro.„ • e 13 c G , 4 4i . .4 00,,,47 7 . Mori , o ff Pen . ee. \\ .li 4,V Ave, (2:' 4 \ .c." . coJ :or* � &M n' sf G f Cou • e r �° , s"c P � o 00 , c*V; ,.* ' N .. Illith,1/4 ' ' ' .. . .--e- Au g. .\ ,,C, Q c p A lii, \ , , , oz. ' AIN' * „ h. I. Alia°.■ dr G 0. AlWilltS4' 0'4 % . Alkilie L______-----. N fr.= Drash FIGURE y, 3 Consulting 1 VI ff Engineers, Inc. 14 sik VICINITY MAP NEPA Review Varsity Ford College Station, Brazos County, Texas SOURCE DRAWING DEVELOPED FROM DELORME STREET ATLAS CDROM. 2001. Project No. 202H1377 SPECIAL Scale: 1" = 2500' Drawn by: DMR ALL LOCATIONS ARE APPROXIMATE. ` NOTES Date: 10/04/02 Checked by: JAL I N. ♦ - ...--".-1 � 1 � i '�- ` c� R d 1 \ 1 N G 0 6 f SITE 4 (1 4, 14 o,� HOLLYWOOD CINEMA SAMS CLUB 'y am s CS •G L N) ,44 0P CHEVRON 14 '�� RESIDENTIAL 0� AREA d RESIDENTIAL AREA ^ RESIDENTIAL / \ AREA N �� Drash FIGURE y 7 Consulting 2 a , ; i:5 . Engineers, Inc. >n .,,,,,g SITE LAYOUT NEPA Review Varsity Ford College Station, Brazos County, Texas SOURCE DRAWING DEVELOPED FROM SITE SKETCH. Project No. 202H1377 SPECIAL Scale: NOT TO SCALE Drawn by: DMR ALL LOCATIONS ARE APPROXIMATE. ` NOTES Date: 10/04/02 Checked by: JAL / ) ' . Y s . Na •C *i). ' ./ _ ., ' -- ' :. L ,"? '. . 1 / 4 , \\ ■___ , c" r" ,f � , � / 7 A \ ' 7)` e �.., • \ \ JI,O rry `/ \\ p ll ) \ r ' �$ ��\ `(p' N tit t:: .* 2 1 r ;r9 r ,' '' / \ • ''.'s * ‘ 't if \ \\ , N>i ' ■ \ P. \o t ga. 3 00 � \, \ \ y y • ,� \ / \ \ 3 0 \ N, O � a ` yd 9 I ME -- A � � � � , v \ / ■ 11 D ? 6 r • r• �� \ / / \ \ 1 \, 1 (� � , \ A / \ O ,.- \ \s ?65 Li� / `c / r J ' � - �; � , `� / • a 1 � r- a s',.. \ ‘.. / ,;....\, ,./-' „....., / .% . , o o , 0. 7 1 / ) : ' ,.' s '''' ' :' .2 ./: . \ \ • © 0 D �odI . � i s f - , PROJ ECT SITE • ; \ ./ ,,..- ,ion-- ' ' - , , o. ikt ' ''.‘-'' /' K \ • 4 ; , . , i _ . , ,, \ , . ,, , _,,, 10 0 /-\\ N, -.N -, , , 7-1-1 ,_;;,, ..r.. , IF_ ,T . ; , ,- „ .*,_ , /7 ,'\ ,__,.., .- ---,----) '\-\ • . .. '''. \:/.... '1 . / Vii'` ° p �s � . ,� ■ �, / / • y .. \ W �. \ , /, N. N 41 ,.. Drash FIGURE yit Consulting 3 ;,, ,, Engineers, Inc. 0 6 TOPOGRAPHIC MAP NEPA Review Varsity Ford U.S.G.S. 7.5 MINUTE TOPOGRAPHIC MAP OF BRYAN EAST QUADRANGLE, College Station, Brazos County, Texas SOURCE BRAZOS COUNTY, TEXAS. 1962; PHOTOREVISED 1980. Project No. 202H1377 i•• SPECIAL ALL LOCATIONS ARE APPROXIMATE. Scale: 1" = 2000' Drawn by: DMR ` NOTES Date: 10/04/02 Checked by: JAL [ . ry y ` k7 ZONE X 0 6 ,,, 1 r i , • . 7 . , , . ENE X , . . JMIT OF STUDY ■ \ ZONE X F i PROJECT SITE ZONE l 1 X ZONE X 9 9 O , \ t C? N j ,,,----: „./.— . PLANTATION OAKS 9 0 DRIVE 9� 9Q , . ■ N �� Drash FIGURE Consulting 4 ;e= Engineers, Inc. III III FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAP NEPA Review Varsity Ford College Station, Brazos County, Texas SOURCE FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAP OF BRAZOS COUNTY, TEXAS 1992. Pro eCt No. 202H 1377 PANEL NUMBER 4804IC0142 C. SPECIAL Scale: 1" = 500' Drawn by: DMR ALL LOCATIONS ARE APPROXIMATE. ` NOTES Date: 10/04/02 Checked by: JAL T DO 4 J ,.. \ .....„,\,), _ h ~ POW h } —PR:AA • ■:� ` 1 � G ,/,'1` � \\ 8 P Nh POY ih —0 a. \ ttr ��� \� I, v , .- 4, J b-- POWhh.;�„ 'N �� � , FWIA G ( PO . v _ ., d 1 40 It N ` \ ; O W Nf/ ' 0 A % t , P.F:OI A , ` PO lib ` •` � PFOIA \~\ l' et, /7 --- r i - i \ \ 7 il; \ , �, \r c, �ye, 'POWMh--0 x �• w / " R� • P 'OIA ! 1 \\ v\ ! POW > xglcm d R2 fili <f› ,,,/ N, - \ ‘'<, i' 4 1\/ rj -, . \ '� ° rx>sa PEMIP -� . /�� a ,+ \, PROJECT SITE j Ns\ \ ,,,,r \ 1 .1\., • F• I / POW lkh hx\ „AO. , sf 1 . � � / , h � �� , �,v j, ,� C,^ POWNII — POWIth \ - IA :, ST .TIO , 7 \ y ` / P OWO . / vo• ,,- 1 ‘ 14 \\-:% . ',, / • „, POWt4h A i „ ,,,, o f � `' / • / � ,. \ PFOtA - , , \ Drash N � Consulting FIGURE y �� � Engineers, Inc. 5 AI: NATIONAL WETLANDS INVENTORY MAP NEPA Review Varsity Ford College Station, Brazos County, Texas SOURCE U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE NATIONAL WETLANDS INVENTORY MAP OF Project No. 202H 1377 BRYAN EAST QUADRANGLE, BRAZOS COUNTY, TEXAS. 1993. J SPECIAL Scale: 1" = 2000' Drawn by: DMR ALL LOCATIONS ARE APPROXIMATE. ` NOTES Date: 10/04/02 Checked by: JAL APPENDIX A THREATENED SPECIES, ENDANGERED SPECIES AND CRITICAL HABITAT REVIEW Drash Project N 7 Consulting `�� Engineers, Inc. Search Endangered Species Report (Job #6372) Property Address: Varsity Ford 1351 Earl Rudder FWS. S. College Station, Texas Project #: 202H1377 Prepared For: Stephanie Lee Drash Consulting 4926 Research Dr San Antonio, Texas 78240 510 S. CONGRESS AVE. SUITE 103 • AUSTIN, TEXAS 78704 • 866 - 396 -0042 • TEL. 412 - 472 -9966 • FAX 512 - 472 -9967 WWW.GEO - SEARCH.NET Endangered Species Protocol GeoSearch has researched the Texas Biological and Conservation Data System (BCD) and topographic maps from the Texas Parks & Wildlife Diversity Branch for any special species and natural communities that are endangered, threatened, and/or critical documented in the BCD within the vicinity of the subject site. Although the Endangered Species Location Map displays a lh mile radius, GeoSearch researches the entire 7.5 minute quad(s) in which the site is located due to mapping precision. Any mapped species and/or natural communities that can possibly be located within a'/ mile of the site are reported. Keep in mind that these species may or may not be located within the 1/2 mile radius due to mapping precision. The information included in this report is based on the best public data currently available to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department regarding threatened, endangered, or otherwise sensitive species. However, this data does not include a representative inventory of rare resources in the state. The Texas Parks & Wildlife Department are responsible for maintaining and updating the maps and database. Although this report does not guarantee that there is a presence or lack of special species and/or natural communities within the area in review, it will provide information to help assist in avoiding harm to species that may occur on your site. Therefore, this report cannot replace the on -site evaluation from a qualified biologist. Attached with each report is a county listing of endangered or threatened species. The species on this list do not all share the same probability of occurrence within the county. Certain species on the list are migrants and may live in the county only part of the year and some may be historic or considered extirpated within a county. The list's sole purpose is to give a general overview of the rare species throughout the county. This report does not consist of a review of fish and wildlife impacts that might occur on the subject site, if an impact review of this type is needed please contact the Habitat Assessment Program of the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. +' / 1 ,, �. 1i ,�• - /./ ! \\ c „. ♦� / %,::\%,:..., Ji ," , \\ ,. `1/2 MILE RADIU f ... 'j I'� —J \` ♦ ( ;;: :: 7. " ^1r '4., \; ■ if �`-', �'. t —4" •\ \\ ` c ` — ..:t ' \. _mil / s.� N. l ---.„, > wage/ _ { -{ \' \ \ .. S �c - \ -, ( 300 ' / 1 � ! ` \ •` , ` • ' �` - .. - . _I* • : ' ?. �`:.� ' - .. •_ _ ` , . \ '� \-/-:\ ; S. .. I \\ P n•- \ 1 i N -... \ • 4. ?.;,' .,,,*•,...... . - ... ' � ; Z f • • r~ �G. * / � � _ :_ .� a f .... `•• '. \\ ` � / � N - . O/ � \ \ mod ' � 31.4 . (` .�.. f; �l. \'i \\1/4, i /;'''\ \ 0 P .. ' . \ t '; / , • • . i . • s % l • 4 % �.. � • -r ors / + ` .2 P C, ':.- .: -, ' ,' / - ./' ® /-•--- y \ / •,, .:......;, I , i \ j „ r PROPERTY LOCATION MANAGED AREAS: ENDANGERED SPECIES • ANIMAL " 'N" , 40„' FEDERAL LOCATION MAP O PLANT STATE VARSITY FORD C • NATURAL PLANT COMMUNITY LOCAL 1351 EARL RUDDER FWS. S. • OTHER NATURAL FEATURES ,.:+.. i is ^: ?' PRIVATE COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS Search EORS: PROJECT #: 202H1377 Q ANIMAL N PLANT 0' eoo' 1200' 1800' 510 S. Congress Ave. Suite 103 NATURAL PLANT COMMUNITY N' E 1•••••••■ = Austin, Texas 78704 `J OTHER NATURAL FEATURE (EX: ROOKERY) S SCALE: 1' = 1200' 866-396 -0042 `JOB #: ES6372 DATE: 09/04/02 / �,.�. ���� �� 7 . : � l ea ease � *�4 z ��.� ,A tr r a 3 � � { n a � c� r� a � « � . � ^� � � �'', r l^� � '�$� �... , ; ' ��;° "'�'" � F a ` ��� ENDANGERED SPECIES4 Report } i `" s ,,, ^ „. y c *' ar fi &$-s� r S * � c', ° ' a �s r # �€ REPORT DETAIL OFE VDANGE3ED SPECIES SITES { , * NOTE: THIS SPECIES IS NOT LOCATED WITHIN THE' /z MILE RADIUS NOR ON THIS MAP, BUT SHOULI) BE CONSIDERED DUE TO PROXIMITY AND MAPPING PRECISION. ID Number: 000146 Name: LIATRIS CYMOSA Common Name: BRANCHED GAY - FEATHER Federal Status: RARE, BUT WITH NO REGULATORY LISTING STATUS State Status: RARE, BUT WITH NO REGULATORY LISTING STATUS Global Rank: IMPERILED GLOBALLY, VERY RARE, 6 TO 20 OCCURRENCES State Rank: IMPERILED IN STATE, VERY RARE, VULNERABLE TO EXTIRPATION, 6 TO 20 OCCURRENCES Precision: MINUTE: ACCURACY WITHIN 1- MINUTE RADIUS OF LATITUDE/LONGITUDE, APPROX. 2 KILOMETERS OR 1.5 MILE RADIUS Tracking: YES Occurrence: 013 Last Observed: 10/01/1972 First Observed: 1972 Surveyed: NOT REPORTED Notations: IN FLOWER AND FRUIT 2 . r, e ^ ',a°"'e " ^r {ae, v fi r-.^ ^.a - .za s - ., f � x� �t l.sY a Via., - # . ^ ., S f ; ; a ; ra".r` s # i ' x * ''� t , - '74 11- 11,'44 , k i s ENDANGERED R epor t , a, r & u E . �s . 14 ' REPORT DETAIL FENDANGERED SPECIES SITES ... * NOTE: THIS SPECIES IS NOT LOCATED WITHIN THE 1/2 MILE RADIUS NOR ON THIS MAP, BUT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED DUE TO PROXIMITY AND MAPPING PRECISION. ID Number: 000077 Name: LIATRIS CYMOSA Common Name: BRANCHED GAY - FEATHER Federal Status: RARE, BUT WITH NO REGULATORY LISTING STATUS State Status: RARE, BUT WITH NO REGULATORY LISTING STATUS Global Rank: IMPERILED GLOBALLY, VERY RARE, 6 TO 20 OCCURRENCES State Rank: IMPERILED IN STATE, VERY RARE, VULNERABLE TO EXTIRPATION, 6 TO 20 OCCURRENCES Precision: MINUTE: ACCURACY WITHIN 1- MINUTE RADIUS OF LATITUDE/LONGITUDE, APPROX. 2 KILOMETERS OR 1.5 MILE RADIUS Tracking: YES Occurrence: 011 Last Observed: 09 /13/1975 First Observed: 1975 Surveyed: NOT REPORTED Notations: IN FLOWER 1 g ,?° I f'7 r."'7u 771,17 rF" " v77 -' " 7 A l 44 �, GeoSearch � � `� $ z=4. � :SA, '' $ �' an .._ ' w ✓. ; s `X ; :§" . :,�` s pa ` " § x q-a r E : $' ENDANGERED SPECIES REPORT REPORT DETAIL OF ENDANGERED SPECIES SITES UNMAPPABLE: *NOTE: THIS SPECIES IS NOT LOCATED ON THE MAP BECAUSE IT IS MAPPED ACCORDING TO QUAD NAME. HOWEVER, PLEASE NOTE THE POSSIBILITY OF THE SPECIES BEING LOCATED IN YOUR AREA. ID Number: 000026 Name: SPIRANTHES PARKSII Common Name: NAVASOTA LADIES' TRESSES Federal Status: LISTED ENDANGERED State Status: LISTED AS ENDANGERED BY THE STATE OF TEXAS Global Rank: VERY RARE AND LOCAL THROUGHOUT RANGE OR FOUND LOCALLY IN RESTRICTED RANGE, 21 TO 100 OCCURRENCES State Rank: RARE OR UNCOMMON IN STATE, 21 TO 100 OCCURRENCES, NOT RANKED TO DATE OR RANK QUALIFIER DENOTING UNCERTAIN RANK Precision: GENERAL: OCCURRENCE MAPPED TO USGS QUADRANGLES OR PLACE NAME PRECISION ONLY, PRECISION WITHIN ABOUT 8 KILOMETERS OR 5 MILES RADIUS Tracking: YES Occurrence: 001 Last Observed: 10/21/1946 First Observed: 1946 Surveyed: NOT REPORTED Notations: COLLEGE STATION 1 • Texas Parks & Wildlife Last Revision: 06/17/02 Annotated County Lists of Rare Species Page 1 of 2 BRAZOS COUNTY Federal State Status Status * ** AMPHIBIANS * ** Houston Toad (Bufo houstonensis) — endemic; species sandy substrate, water in pools, LE E ephemeral pools, stock tanks; breeds in spring especially after rains; burrows in soil when inactive; breeds February June; associated with soils of the Sparta, Carrizo, Goliad, Queen City, Recklaw, Weches, and Willis geologic formations * ** BIRDS * ** Arctic Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus tundrius) - due to similar field characteristics, DL T treat all Peregrine Falcons as federal listed Endangered; potential migrant Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) - found primarily near seacoasts, rivers, and large LT -PDL T lakes; nests in tall trees or on cliffs near water; communally roosts, especially in winter; hunts live prey, scavenges, and pirates food from other birds Henslow's Sparrow (Ammodramus henslowir) - wintering individuals (not flocks) found in weedy fields or cut -over areas where lots of bunch grasses occur along with vines and brambles; a key component is bare ground for running /walking Whooping Crane (Grus americana) — potential migrant LE E Wood Stork (Mycteria americana) — forages in prairie ponds, flooded pastures or fields, T ditches, and other shallow standing water, including salt- water; usually roosts . communally in tall snags, sometimes in association with other wading birds (i.e. active heronries); breeds in Mexico and birds move into Gulf States in search of mud flats and other wetlands, even those associated with forested areas; formerly nested in Texas, but no breeding records since 1960 * ** FISHES * ** Blue Sucker (Cycleptus elongatus) — usually inhabits channels and flowing pools with a T moderate current; bottom type usually consists of exposed bedrock, perhaps in combination with hard clay, sand, and gravel; adults winter in deep pools and move upstream in spring to spawn on riffles Smalleye Shiner (Notropis buccula) — endemic to upper Brazos River system and its C1 tributaries; apparently introduced into adjacent Colorado River drainage; medium to large prairie streams with sandy substrate and turbid to clear warm water; presumably eats small aquatic invertebrates * ** MAMMALS * ** Plains Spotted Skunk (Spilogale putorius interrupta) - catholic; open fields, prairies, croplands, fence rows, farmyards, forest edges, and woodlands; prefers wooded, brushy areas and tallgrass prairie Rafinesque's Big -Eared Bat (Corynorhinus rafinesquh) - roosts in cavity trees of T bottomland hardwoods, concrete culverts, and abandoned man -made structures Southeastern Myotis (Myotis austroriparius) - roosts in cavity trees of bottomland hardwoods, concrete culverts, and abandoned man -made structures Texas Parks (Sc Wildlife Last Revision: 6/17/02 Annotated County Lists of Rare Species Page 2 of 2 BRAZOS COUNTY, cont'd Federal State Status Status * ** REPTILES * ** Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macroclemys temminckir) - deep water of rivers, canals, T lakes, and oxbows; also swamps, bayous, and ponds near deep running water; sometimes enters brackish coastal waters; usually in water with mud bottom and abundant aquatic vegetation; may migrate several miles along rivers; active March - October; breeds April- October Louisiana Pine Snake (Pituophis melanoleucus ruthveni) - mixed deciduous- longleaf C1 T pine woodlands; breeds April- September Texas Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis annectens) - wet or moist microhabitats are conducive to the species occurrence, but is not necessarily restricted to them; hibernates underground or in or under surface cover; breeds March - August Texas Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma cornutum) - open, arid and semi -arid regions with T sparse vegetation, including grass, cactus, scattered brush or scrubby trees; soil may vary in texture from sandy to rocky; burrows into soil, enters rodent burrows, or hides under rock when inactive; breeds March - September Timber /Canebrake Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) - swamps, floodplains, upland pine T and deciduous woodlands, riparian zones, abandoned farmland; limestone bluffs, sandy soil or black clay; prefers dense ground cover, i.e. grapevines or palmetto * ** VASCULAR PLANTS * ** , ranched gayfeather (Liatris cymosa) - somewhat barren grassland openings in post oak woodlands on tight clay, chalky, or gravelly soils, sometimes over Catahoula Formation; flowering July- October Navasota ladies'- tresses (Spiranthes parksii) - endemic; margins of and openings within LE E post oak woodlands in sandy loams along intermittent tributaries of rivers; flowering late October -early November Small - headed pipewort (Eriocaulon kornickianum) - wet acid sands of upland seeps and bogs, often on sphagnum mats with little other vegetative cover; flowering /fruiting late May -late June Texas meadow rue (Thalictrum texanum) - endemic; mesic woodlands or forests, including wet ditches on partially shaded roadsides; flowering March -May Texas windmill -grass (Chloris texensis) - endemic; sandy to sandy loam soils in open to sometimes barren areas in prairies and grasslands, including ditches and roadsides; flowering in fall LE,LT - Federally Listed Endangered /Threatened PE,PT - Federally Proposed Endangered /Threatened E /SA,T /SA - Federally Endangered /Threatened by Similarity of Appearance C1 - Federal Candidate, Category 1; information supports proposing to list as endangered /threatened DL,PDL - Federally Delisted /Proposed Delisted E,T - State Endangered /Threatened "blank" - Rare, but with no regulatory listing status II ,species appearing on these lists do not all share the same probability of occurrence. Some species are II migrants or wintering residents only, or may be historic or considered extirpated. TEXAS TEXAS Notes for PARKS & County Lists of PARKS & WILDLIFE Texas' Special Species WILDLIFE The Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPWD) county lists include: Vertebrates, Invertebrates, and Vascular Plants on the special species lists of the Texas Biological and Conservation Data System. These special species lists are comprised of all species, subspecies, and varieties that are federally listed; proposed to be federally listed; have federal candidate status; are state listed; or carry a global conservation status indicating a species is imperiled, very rare, or vulnerable to extirpation. Colonial Waterbird Nesting Areas and Migratory Songbird Fallout Areas are contained on the county lists for coastal counties only. The TPWD county lists exclude: Natural Plant Communities such as Little Bluestem- Indiangrass.Series (native prairie remnant), Water Oak- Willow Oak Series (bottomland hardwood community), Saltgrass- Cordgrass Series (salt or brackish marsh), Sphagnum - Beakrush Series (seepage bog). Other Significant Features such as non - coastal bird rookeries, migratory bird information, bat roosts, bat caves, invertebrate caves, and prairie dog towns. The revised date on each county list reflects the last date any changes or revisions were made for that county and reflects current listing statuses and taxonomy. Species that appear on county lists do not all share the same probability of occurrence within a county. Some species are migrants or wintering residents only. Additionally, a few species may be historic or considered extirpated within a county. Species considered extirpated within the state are so flagged on each list. Revised: 01 -03 -15 TEXAS TEXAS The Texas Biological PARKS & and Conservation Data System PARKS & WILDLIFE WILDLIFE The Texas Biological and Conservation Data System (TXBCD), established in 1983, is the state's most comprehensive source of information on rare, threatened, and endangered plants and animals, exemplary natural communities, and other significant features. The TXBCD is constantly updated, providing current information on statewide status and locations of these unique elements of natural diversity. The TXBCD gathers biological information from museum and herbarium collection records, publications, experts in the scientific community, organizations, individuals, and on -site field surveys conducted by TPWD staff on public lands or private lands with written permission. TPWD staff botanists, zoologists, and ecologists perform field surveys to locate and verify specific occurrences of high - priority biological elements and collect accurate information on their condition, quality, and management needs. The TXBCD can be used to help evaluate the environmental impact of routing and siting options for development projects. It also assists in impact assessment, environmental review, and permit review. Given the small proportion of public versus private land in Texas, the TXBCD includes less than a representative inventory of rare resources in the state. Although it is based on the best data available to TPWD regarding rare species, these data cannot provide a definitive statement as to the presence, absence, or condition of special species, natural communities, or other significant features in any area. Nor can these data substitute for on - site evaluation by qualified biologists. The TXBCD information is intended to assist the user in avoiding harm to species that may occur. Please use the following citation to credit the TXBCD as the source for this county level information: Texas Biological and Conservation Data System. Texas Parks and Wildlife, Wildlife Diversity Branch. County Lists of Texas' Special Species. [county name(s) and revised date(s)]. For information on obtaining a project review form or a site - specific review of a project area for rare species, please call (512) 912 -7011. Revised: 01 -03 -15 APPENDIX B PICTURES OF THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES Drash ProjectN°202H1377 7 Consulting `�� Engineers, Inc. i 1 1 111 / ,.. ,- , .. .- , iet - 8, 4 ''''. . ii . . , _ 1 , 40011r , - . , ,. ,. - - t , , - ,„,,, -* - , ,-,_ __,,;,_-, .4 . , . - - , ---,,, ,.., 4 41... js._ N�r i!ullrJjr Houston Toad Bald Eagle Wood Stork , i lir 44 li Whooping Crane Navosta Ladies'- tresses , Peregrine Falcon Alligator Snapping Turtle t/ 1 J, Blue Sucker Rafinesque's Big -Eared Bat i ' l , . I., •.4 1 Nit ,...... - v- . , , vph , iii, , 1 ,,,,,,,, ,„,-,..::,.., _ _., ,, ,,, • . _ i --, 1 1 Texas Horned Lizard Timber /Canebrake Rattlesnake APPENDIX C TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION RESPONSES ■ J Drash Project N `` Consulting Engineers, Inc. 481E () , A ' TEXAS �o y !1 RICK PERRY, GOVERNOR H ip\ HISTORICAL J � JOHN L. NAU, III, CHAIRMAN C OMMISSION F. LAWERENCE OAKS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR The State Agency for Historic Preservation October 9, 2002 Stephnie J. Lee Environmental Technician Drash Consulting Engineers, Inc. P.O. Box 781208 San Antonio, TX 78278 -1208 Re: Project review under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 Communications tower, Varsity Ford Tower site, Brazos County, Texas (FCC) Dear Ms. Lee: Thank you for allowing us to review the above referenced project. This letter serves as comment on the proposed undertaking from the State Historic Preservation Officer, the Executive Director of the Texas Historical Commission. The review staff, led by Bill Martin, has examined our records. According to our maps, no archeological sites are recorded on the tract proposed for development, but a professional archeologist has never examined this specific tract. Since the tower will be built on vacant land along Carters Creek, we recommend that a qualified professional archeologist survey all construction areas prior to any ground disturbance. The survey should be conducted using a methodology that conforms to the enclosed survey standards. A report of investigations should be produced in conformance with the Secretary of the Interior's Guidelines for Archaeology and Historic Preservation, and submitted to this office for review. In addition, any buildings 50 years old or older that are located anywhere on the tract should be documented with photographs and included in the report. Thank you for your cooperation in this federal review process, and for your efforts to preserve the irreplaceable heritage of Texas. If you have any questions concerning our review or if we can be of further assistance, please contact Bill Martin at 512/463 -5867. Sincerely, for F. Lawerence Oaks, State Historic Preservation Officer FLO /wam Enclosures P.O. BOX 12276 • AUSTIN, TX 78711 -2276 • 512/463 -6100 • FAX 512/475 -4872 • TDD 1-800/735-2989 www.thc.state.tx.us TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION ARCHEOLOGICAL SURVEY STANDARDS FOR TEXAS Archeological survey standards identify the minimum amount of work considered acceptable for intensive archeological surveys of 200 acres or less. These standards are not intended to limit additional work (i.e. more shovel tests or backhoe trenches) that may be deemed necessary to identify archeological sites on the basis of the Area of Potential Effect, anticipated impacts, or the likelihood of encountering significant cultural resources. Survey methodologies for project areas larger than 200 acres should be discussed with the Texas Historical Commission (THC) Archeology Division prior to implementing the survey. 1. Professional Qualifications: Archeological investigations must be supervised by an archeologist who meets the U.S. Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualification Standards for Archeology (48FR 22716 or 36 CFR Part 61); or meets the requirements for Principal Investigator defined in Title 13, Part II of the Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 26. 2. Background Research: Archeologists must conduct a background literature search prior to field investigations. At a minimum this shall include searches of the Texas Historical Commission and the Texas Archeological Research Laboratory (TARL) records or the equivalent Texas"Archeological Sites Atlas Database for previously recorded archeological sites and historic properties, and previous archeological work in the vicinity. 3. Submerged Archeological Sites: Projects crossing navigable state or federal waters may require an underwater survey. 4. Deeply Buried Cultural Deposits: Archeologists must assess the potential for deeply buried cultural deposits within the Area of Potential Effect prior to starting field investigations. At a minimum, this shall include a review of the USDA soil surveys and geologic maps. If there is a potential for deeply buried cultural deposits within the depth of impacts, deeper subsurface investigations (such as backhoe trenches, or other method acceptable to the THC) will be required. 5. Site Forms: Texas Archeological Site Data Forms must be completed for all archeological sites revisited or discovered during survey. These forms are submitted in TXSITE database and paper form to the Texas Archeological Research Laboratory, The University of Texas at Austin. 6. Survey Report: Archeologists are required to submit the results of their investigations in a report to the THC that follows the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Archeological Documentation or the Council of Texas Archeologists Guidelines for Cultural Resource Management Reports. The THC normally will complete its review within 30 days. Comments from the THC must be addressed in the final report and 20 copies of the final report must be submitted to the THC. 7. Curation: Archeological field notes, photographs and artifacts must be curated in accordance with the Council of Texas Archeologists guidelines. NOV -25 -2002 MON 12:57 PM SWCA AUSTIN FAX NO. 5124760893 P. 02 _ • r' q'c Iry ID 'Its ,a 4 .• 1 • ) 1 - 1712 Rio Grande, Sui +e C V ik - . T ' i • i fi c , . \ Austin, Texas 78701 v 1 , !T '\ \ ' Tel 512.476.0591 Fax 512.476 0691 i ., L ( www.5wcu.corn ENJ%I' ONAAEN� CO SUITA 7 --1 (∎ , J �c ,� . R ECEivEo 1 November 2002 Mr. Bill Martin NOV 0 4 2002 Archeology Division TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION Texas Historical Commission 1511 Colorado St. Austin, TX 78701 Re: Draft Report Entitled A Cultural Resources Survey of the Varsity Ford Cellular Tower Site, City of College Station, Brazos County, Texas Dear Mr. Martin: We are pleased to submit a preliminary draft report of the results of our cultural resource survey of a proposed cellular tower site in College Station, Texas. 1 have enclosed one copy of the report for your review, along with a copy of your original letter dated October 9, 2002 requesting an archaeological survey. The background review revealed that no surveys had been conducted in the area and no previously recorded sites were within or adjacent to the project area. The field survey revealed disturbances throughout the project area, including recent cultural landscaping and various flood - control measures, as the tower site is located on a flood terrace of Carters Creek. The surface exhibits evidence of recent ground- disturbing activities, such as silt fencing for flood control and ground leveling. The subsurface investigation consisted of the excavation of two shovel tests that revealed mottled clay loam with evidence of repeated flooding to 75 cm below the surface. No historic or prehistoric cultural materials were found during the survey. Based on the results of these investigations, archaeological clearance is recommended for the project area Once you have had an opportunity to review this draft, please contact me with any corrections, changes, or additions. Please contact me or Kevin Miller at 512- 476 -0891 if you have any questions. . ___.. Sincerely, PRG9i:FiTir'S . AFFECTED f :, Pr , � ' PROCEED fi; ' JI .:), Kerri S. Bartle for F. La +.V y • ni %fi "36%r, i •'Y- w .- ..� % ' s! - ^'!/►.._' principal Investigator clalC• H i�(E1S'I .. 1. i .1.!11.2 lox- F. r e`�1bI; .0. • • APPENDIX D NEPA CHECKLIST Drash Project N° 202H1377 7 Consulting Engineers, Inc. NEPA Land Use Screening Checklist Site Varsity Ford Site N K021A LAND USE SCREENING Yes No 1. Is the proposed facility located in an officially designated wilderness area. ❑ 2. Is the proposed facility located in an officially designated wildlife preserve. ❑ 3. May the proposed facility affect threatened or endangered species or designated critical habitats. ❑ 4. Will the proposed facility likely jeopardize the continued existence of any proposed endangered or threatened species. ❑ 5. Will the proposed facility likely result in the destruction or adverse modification of proposed critical habitats (as determined by the Endangered Species of 1974). ❑ 6. Will the facility affect districts, sites, buildings, structures or objects significant in American history, architecture, archeology, engineering or culture, that are listed (or eligible for listing) in the National Register of Historic Places. ❑ 7. Will the facility affect Indian Religious site(s). ❑ 8. Is the facility located in a flood plain. ❑ 9. Will the construction of the proposed facility involve significant change in surface features (e.g. wetland fill, deforestation, or water diversion). ❑ 10. Is the proposed facility located in a residential neighborhood and is required to be equipped with high intensity white lights. ❑ 11 Drash Consulting Engineers, Inc. *NI tION. .111. *wee