preserving our last unspoiled waters s pristine rivers ... · this pollution occurs when rain hits...

Fall 2006

North Carolina’s Pristine Rivers: Preserving our last unspoiled waters

North Carolina’s Pristine Rivers:

Preserving our last unspoiled waters

Christine WunscheEnvironment North Carolina Research & Policy Center

Fall 2006

Environment North Carolina Research & Policy Center gratefully acknowledges Mary Alsentzer, Executive Director of Pamlico-Tar River Foundation for peer review. We also would like to thank Jeffrey Clark and Stephen Craig for producing the maps in this report and for editing as-sistance.

This report was made possible by generous grants from the Beldon Fund and Educational Foun-dation of America.

The author alone bears responsibility for any factual errors. The recommendations are those of Environment North Carolina Research & Policy Center. The views expressed in this report are those of the author and do not necessarily express the views of our funders.

© Environment North Carolina Research & Policy CenterIn 2006, Environment North Carolina Research & Policy Center became the new home of North Carolina Public Interest Research Group (NCPIRG) Education Fund’s environmental work.

Environment North Carolina Research & Policy Center is a 501(c)(3) organization. We are dedi-cated to protecting North Carolina’s air, water and open spaces. We investigate problems, craft solutions, educate the public and decision makers, and help North Carolinians make their voices heard in local, state and national debates over the quality of our environment and our lives.

For more information about Environment North Carolina and Environment North CarolinaResearch & Policy Center, see our Web site at www.environmentnorthcarolina.org or contact our offices at (919) 833-0015 or by email at [email protected].

Cover photos (clockwise): Rich Stevenson, www.ncwaterfalls.com; David Nichols; Rich Steven-son, www.ncwaterfalls.com

Additional copies of this report can be obtained online at www.environmentnorthcarolina.org or in print by sending $10 per copy to:

Environment North Carolina112 S. Blount StreetSuite 102Raleigh, NC 27601

Table of Contents Executive Summary.................................................................. 3Introduction............................................................................... 4Threats to Water Quality............................................................ 5 Development and Polluted runoff.................................. 5The Importance of Protecting North Carolina’s Pristine Waters............................. 7 Recreation and Tourism................................................. 7 Clean Drinking Water.................................................... 7 Economic Impact........................................................... 7Available Protections................................................................. 8 High Quality Waters....................................................... 8 Outstanding Resource Waters........................................ 8Recommendations..................................................................... 9River Profiles............................................................................. 10 Broad River Basin: North Fork First Broad River and Walnut Creek...................................... 11 French Broad Basin: Jonathans Creek........................... 14 Little Tennessee River Basin: West Buffalo Creek, Cheoah River, Forney Creek and Hazel Creek.............. 16 Neuse River Basin: Eno River....................................... 21 Savannah River Basin: Horsepasture River................... 23 Tar-Pamlico River Basin: Tar River............................... 25Appendix A............................................................................... 27Appendix B............................................................................... 28Appendix C................................................................................ 29End Notes.................................................................................. 33

credit: Rich Stevenson, www.ncwaterfalls.com

Executive Summary

From the Little Tennessee River in the West to the Tar River in the East, North Carolina is home to breathtaking rivers, lakes, and streams, important for drinking water, fishing, swimming, and recre-ation. Unfortunately, our waters are at risk. North Carolina is developing at the fifth fastest rate in the nation. As this development increases, so do the de-mands and stresses placed on our rivers and streams.

The primary threat facing our waters is pollut-ed runoff. This pollution occurs when rain hits paved surfaces and carries pollutants including oil, gas, pesticides, and sediment into our rivers and streams. This runoff smothers wildlife, erodes stream banks, and degrades water quality. Polluted water means a loss of clean drinking water, clear swimming holes, healthy fish, and recreational tourism. Fortunately, North Carolina has the ability to protect our remaining pristine rivers and streams.

Unspoiled waters can be safeguarded by imple-menting special classifications aimed at preserving water quality. There are over 80 rivers and streams in the state that qualify for these designations, but are still left unprotected. This report highlights the beauty and importance of several of these unspoiled rivers.

Recommendations

There are a number of important steps North Car-olina should take to protect our waters, including improving enforcement of existing laws, protecting our open spaces, and requiring more safeguards on development. Perhaps the most powerful tool avail-able to citizens, however, is the reclassification of pristine rivers and streams.

Classifying rivers and streams as “High Quality Waters” and “Outstanding Resource Waters” is an important means of preserving the health and beau-ty of our waters. To ensure the protection of our pristine waters, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) should:

• Propose rules to the Environmental Manage-ment Commission for the protection of pristine waters as quickly as possible.

• Put a hold on permits for discharges into these rivers and streams until the rule making process for individual waterways is complete.

• Develop a timetable for the protection of the state’s remaining unspoiled waterways.

There are many beautiful rivers and streams need-ing protection—this report highlights some of the most pristine waters in the state, all needing pub-lic support to ensure their unspoiled nature is pre-served.

Executive Summary 3

Introduction

From the Little Tennessee River in the West to the Tar River in the East, North Carolina is home to breathtaking rivers, lakes, and streams, important for drinking water, fishing, swimming, and recre-ation. In the mountains, rivers supply drinking wa-ter to thousands of residents while visitors flock to the area for whitewater rafting, trout fishing, and hiking. This region includes the Horsepasture Riv-er, arguably one of North Carolina’s most beautiful rivers. Known for its spectacular waterfalls, por-tions of the river have been designated as both a State Natural and Scenic River and a National Wild and Scenic River. Traveling into the eastern part of the state, the Eno River, located in the Triangle, is an excellent site for canoeing and fishing. The Eno River is also home to nationally significant fresh-water mussels, fish and other aquatic species.

These are just a few examples of the beautiful, un-spoiled rivers that exist in our state. Unfortunately, these waters are at risk. North Carolina is develop-ing at the fifth fastest rate in the nation.1 As this de-velopment increases, so do the demands and stress-es placed on our rivers and streams.

The primary threat facing our waters is polluted run-off. This pollution occurs when rain hits paved sur-faces and carries pollutants, including oil, gas, pes-ticides, and sediment, into our rivers and streams. The more parking lots, roads, and buildings pro-duced, the more our waters are polluted. Polluted runoff smothers wildlife, erodes stream banks, and degrades water quality. Polluted runoff has been cited as the primary source of impairment of over 1,300 miles of waterways, responsible for nearly

40% of all known impaired stream miles state-wide.2

All of this pollution threatens the beauty and health of our waterways. Our rivers, lakes, and streams are essential to our recreation, our health, and our econ-omy. Polluted water means a loss of clean drinking water, clear swimming holes, healthy fish, and rec-reational tourism. Fortunately, North Carolina has the ability to protect our remaining pristine rivers and streams.

Unspoiled waters can be safeguarded by imple-menting special classifications aimed at preserving water quality, called High Quality Water and Out-standing Resource Waters. According to the most recent water quality reports from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, there are over 80 rivers and streams in the state with segments that qualify for these designations, but are still left un-protected. Environment North Carolina Research & Policy Center has worked with several local orga-nizations to file requests to reclassify rivers across the state as Outstanding Resource Waters and High Quality Waters. We look forward to protecting wa-ter quality in these areas and pursuing new reclassi-fication requests in the future.There are many beau-tiful rivers and streams needing protection and this report highlights some of the most pristine waters in the state—all needing public support to ensure that they remain unspoiled. Stretching from Graham County in the western corner of the state to Edge-combe County in the east, these rivers illustrate the importance of maintaining the health and beauty of our waters.

Introduction 4

Threats to Water Quality 5

Threats to Water Quality

Development and Polluted runoff

Development is one of the greatest threats to clean water. North Carolina is in the midst of a develop-ment boom that outpaces even the state’s population growth. Within the past 20 years, North Carolina’s population has increased by 42%, while developed acreage has increased by 82% (2 million acres).3 Roads, highways, and bridges now cover approxi-mately 1% of the state’s total landmass.4

This rapid development harms North Carolina’s waters because development increases the quantity and decreases the quality of stormwater runoff5. Polluted runoff, or stormwater, is created when rain falls on paved surfaces and washes pollutants such as fertilizer, pesticide, dirt, oil, grease, bacteria, and sediment into waterways. This polluted runoff is the greatest single threat to North Carolina’s rivers and streams, causing degradation of water quality and the impairment of waters statewide. Polluted runoff has been cited as the primary source of impairment of over 1,300 miles of waterways, responsible for nearly 40% of all known impaired stream miles statewide.6

Polluted runoff has already severely harmed our state’s waters. More than seven percent of the state’s streams are listed as impaired and runoff is the leading source of impairment.7

A serious decline in the quality of receiving waters can result when as little as 10%-15% of a watershed is covered by impervious surfaces such as roads, roof-tops and parking lots.8

North Carolina receives roughly 48 inches of pre-cipitation each year—more along the coast and in the mountains and less in the piedmont. In unde-veloped areas rainfall is absorbed wherever it hits the ground. Developed areas, because they are comprised of many impervious surfaces, do not al-low the same amount of rainfall to be absorbed into the ground. Curb and gutter systems, common in urban areas, compound polluted runoff’s ill effects because these systems trap pollutants on road sur-faces and channel them directly to surface waters without filtering out the pollutants. These pollutants poison fish and wildlife, reduce water quality, and degrade drinking water sources.

In addition to carrying pollutants into our waters, polluted runoff flows off of paved surfaces at a faster speed, scouring stream banks. The eroded sediment smothers fish and shellfish, coats river bottoms in silt and ooze, and fills in river channels, increasing flooding downstream.

Sediment, often produced by agricultural, forestry, and construction activities, is a widespread cause of pollution in North Carolina’s streams and lakes.9 In-state construction activities that involve clearing land for development, including highways and

Polluted runoff is a leading cause of shellfish bed closures.

credit: North Carolina Coastal Federation

The leading threat to our water is runoff from development.

credit: DENR, Division of Water Quality

Threats to Water Quality 6

shopping malls, expose and make vulnerable thou-sands of acres of soil every year to erosion caused by wind and rain.10

Unless erosion control methods are employed, tons of soil can be lost from just one cleared acre of land during a heavy rainstorm. The soil picked up dur-ing storms is carried to lakes and streams. In great quantities, eroded soil ruins the aquatic environ-ment, eliminates fish populations, buries aquatic organisms, clogs fish gills, reduces water clarity, blocks aquatic plants’ light sources, increases flood-ing, and reduces reservoir storage capacity.11

Another problem exasperated by runoff is nutrient pollution. Nutrient concentrations, increased by nutrients carried in polluted runoff, can cause al-gae overgrowth, increased cloudiness and fish kills. When fertilizers and pesticides are used in agricul-tural operations, nutrients are carried from the land surface and drain into surface waters. Animal waste from livestock operations and grazing areas, as well as human waste from poorly functioning on-site

Nutrient pollution, transported via runoff, is a cause of fish kills.

credit: Larry Baldwin, Lower neuse Riverkeeper

wastewater systems, can also contaminate our wa-ters with nutrients, bacteria and pathogens.12 Fecal coliform contamination, another common cause of impairment, is often deposited into waterways by urban and suburban runoff.

The Importance of Protecting North Carolina’s Pristine Waters

From the Little Tennessee River in the West to the Tar River in the East, North Carolina is home to breathtaking rivers, lakes, and streams, important for drinking water, fishing, swimming, and recre-ation. Clean water is vital to our health, our com-munities, and North Carolina’s economy.

Recreation and Tourism

North Carolinians enjoy their state’s natural beauty, with millions participating in outdoor activities each year.13 Clean water is an essential part of maintain-ing the state’s natural landscape and necessary for recreational activities like swimming, fishing, and boating.

Out-of-staters appreciate North Carolina’s beauty too; North Carolina was the eighth most visited state in the country in 2004.14 Many people are vis-iting North Carolina for outdoor recreation—it was the primary reason 9% of all tourists traveled to the state in 2004.15 Furthermore, among all visitors to the state, the most popular type of activities, after shopping and social/family events were beach ac-tivities and rural sightseeing.16

These visitors are an integral part of North Caroli-na’s economy. Tourism dollars help support hotels, restaurants, airports, gas stations, gift shops, and recreation-based businesses such as charter fish-ing companies, bike stores, and kayak rental shops. Businesses that thrive on tourism also pump money in the local economy; they buy supplies from other local businesses and their employees’ wages help sustain other establishments. Tourists spent $13.3 billion in our state in 2004, supporting 182,950 jobs. The tourism industry also generated over $710 mil-lion in state tax revenue and more than $437 million in local tax revenue.17

Clean Drinking Water

High quality water is vitally important to all North Carolinians. Clean water is not only essential for recreation and our economy, but also for drinking water. Eighty-three percent of North Carolina’s drinking water comes from surface waters, and 3 million people depend on these surface waters for clean drinking water.18

Economic Impact

Clean water is important not only for human life, but wildlife as well. The state’s $144 million com-mercial fishing industry is dependent on fish popu-lations that need clean water.19 Furthermore, North Carolina’s waters are home to rare and endangered species whose survival depends on the preservation of their habitat. North Carolina’s rivers are places of beauty that are important for swimming, boat-ing and fishing, as drinking water sources, and as economic resources. Unfortunately, development throughout the state is growing at an alarming rate, encroaching on North Carolina’s pristine rivers and streams.

Between 1982 and 2002, developed land in North Carolina increased by 1,849,800 acres while the state lost 2,568,700 acres of cropland and forest-land.20 As the state continues to grow, our waters are increasingly threatened. Fortunately, the state has mechanisms in place for protecting our pristine waters from degradation.

NC’s Pristine Waters 7

Outdoor recreation, such as fishing, is a leading draw for tourism in the state.

credit: NC Department of Commerce

Available Protections

North Carolina has strong laws on the books aimed at protecting these waters in the face of rapid de-velopment.

All surface waters in North Carolina are assigned a primary classification by the Department of En-vironment and Natural Resource’s (DENR) Divi-sion of Water Quality (DWQ). These primary clas-sifications label waters for their appropriate usage, whether that is for various levels of recreation or as drinking water. In addition to the primary classifi-cations, supplemental classifications can be added by DWQ to provide further protection to waters with special uses or values. Two of these protec-tive classifications, High Quality Waters (HQW) and Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW), are only applied to waterways found to have excellent wa-ter quality. These two classifications are important tools in ensuring that North Carolina’s pristine riv-ers and streams are not spoiled.

High Quality Waters

High Quality Waters (HQW) is a supplemental classification intended to protect waters with qual-ity higher than state water quality standards. A wa-terway can be named HQW by definition or can be designated as HQW. The following are High Qual-ity Waters by definition:21

• Water Supply I or II waters;• Shellfishing waters;• Outstanding Resource Waters;• Waters designated as Primary Nursery Areas

or other functional nursery areas by the Marine Fisheries Commission; or

• Native and Special Native (wild) Trout Waters as designated by the Wildlife Resources Com-mission.

There are also waters that can be given supplemen-tal designation as High Quality Waters. These in-clude:• Waters for which DWQ has received a petition

for reclassification to either WS-I or WS-II, or• Waters rated as Excellent by DWQ.

HQW places restrictions on development and con-tains a low density option that limits development to 1 dwelling unit per acre or 12% built upon area. While there are no high-density option limitations, development must include controls for stormwater runoff from the first one inch of rainfall. HQW also requires stream buffers for low density for projects that require a Sedimentation and Erosion and Con-trol Plan. Agricultural and forestry best manage-ment practices, as well as stricter erosion controls for transportation projects, also apply. HQW also requires stricter treatment standards for new or ex-panded wastewater discharges and may restrict new discharging landfills.

Outstanding Resource Waters

Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) is a classifi-cation intended to protect unique and special waters having excellent water quality and of exceptional state or national ecological or recreational signifi-cance. To qualify, waters must be rated as having excellent water quality and also have an “outstand-ing resource value.” This resource value must be one of the following:22

• Outstanding fish habitat or fisheries;• Unusually high level of water-based recreation;• Some special designation, such as North Caroli-

na or National Wild/Scenic/Natural/Recreational River, National Wildlife Refuge, etc.;

• Be an important component of a state or nation-al park or forest; or

• Be of special ecological significance.

Like HQW, ORW places limitations on allowable development activities by creating a low density option that limits development to 1 dwelling unit per acre or 12% built upon area. ORW also requires controls for stormwater runoff from the first one inch of rainfall as well as stream buffers for low density for projects requiring a Sedimentation and Erosion and Control Plan. ORW also includes the same ap-plication of agricultural and forestry best manage-ment practices and applies stricter erosion controls for transportation projects. If the water body is des-ignated ORW, no new or expanded wastewater dis-charges are permitted. An ORW classification also has more stringent requirements concerning land



Recommendations

There are a number of important steps North Carolina’s policy makers should take to protect our waters, including improving enforcement of existing laws, protecting our open spaces, and requiring more safe-guards on development. Perhaps the most powerful tool available to citizens, however, is the reclassifica-tion of pristine rivers and streams.

Classifying rivers and streams as “High Quality Waters” and “Outstanding Resource Waters” is an im-portant means of preserving the health and beauty of our waters. These designations protect waterways from many sources of pollution. There are several important things that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) can do to ensure the preservation of our pristine waters:

• Propose rules to the Environmental Management Commission for the protection of pristine waters as quickly as possible. The process for reclassifying a water body is lengthy, often taking years. It is impor-tant that any requests for reclassification proceed through the rulemaking process as quickly as possible; the longer the delay in reclassifying a river, the more polluted the river becomes.

• Put a hold on permits for discharges into these rivers and streams until the rule making process for individual waterways is complete. Because the reclassification process does take such a long time, it is important for DENR to take all steps necessary to protect rivers being examined. If the rivers are not protected from new sources of pollution, they will fail to retain their water quality and the reclassification process will be less effective.

• Develop a timetable for the protection of the state’s remaining unspoiled waterways. Currently, there are approximately 80 rivers and streams in excellent condition needing reclassification. While DENR does not have the staff and resources necessary to reclassify all of these rivers immediately, steps need to be taken to ensure that these waters will not be neglected and will be protected as soon as possible.

Steps have been taken by several local groups to preserve their favorite rivers and streams. This report highlights some of the most pristine waters in the state—all needing public support to ensure they remain unspoiled.

fills, not allowing any new discharging landfills. Therefore, although both HQW and ORW clas-sifications aim to preserve water quality, an ORW classification is in many ways more restrictive than HQW.

However, these strong protections are tied to water

classifications and many of the state’s pristine wa-ters have not been assigned classifications that pro-tect their outstanding level of water quality. Pristine waters will only receive the protections needed if the state classifies them as HQW or ORW or if con-cerned citizens request that their local waterway be reclassified.

River Profiles 10

River Profiles

North Carolina is home to some of the nation’s last great waterways, from the rapids of the mountains to the peaceful sounds of the coast. Unfortunately, development is encroaching on our remaining pristine rivers, lakes, and streams. This section highlights the beauty and importance of pristine rivers across the state and examines the threats facing these waters.Currently there are approximately 80 unspoiled waters lacking the protections that High Quality Waters and Outstanding Resource Waters designations provide. Environment North Carolina is working to protect these waters and the following profiles are just a sam-pling of the beautiful rivers in our state. Each of these rivers and streams has portions of the river that exhibit excellent water quality and are outstanding examples of rivers that can still be spared the effects of pollution. These unspoiled waterways are:

• North Fork First Broad River • Walnut Creek • Jonathans Creek • West Buffalo Creek• Forney Creek

• Cheoah River• Eno River• Horsepasture River • Tar River • Hazel Creek

Broad River Basin: North Fork First Broad River and Walnut Creek

The Broad River Basin begins in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, the waters then run through the state’s foothills and piedmont before entering South Carolina and flowing into the Atlantic Ocean. The Broad River’s major tributaries in North Caro-lina are the Green, Second Broad, First Broad and North Pacolet Rivers. Several manmade lakes are also located in the basin, including Lake Lure, Lake Summit, Lake Adger and Moss Lake (Kings Moun-tain Reservoir).23

The Broad River Basin, like much of the state, is experiencing rapid population growth and increased development. In 2000, the Basin’s population was estimated at 342,282, but is projected to grow by 23 percent by 2020. Although only two percent of the basin’s landmass is urban, and whereas most of the basin is either forested (74%) or pasture (22%)24, developed land increased by 72,200 acres between 1982 and 2002.25

This growth presents a danger to the species that

call the Broad Basin home. Fifteen rare aquatic and wetland animal and plant species live in the basin and a large portion of the biologically-rich South Mountains lies within the basin. Sadly, the signif-icant range of habitats within the basin is threat-ened. Habitat degradation (including sedimenta-tion) is the most prevalent water quality problem in the Broad River basin. Other water quality issues within the basin include fish tissue contamination, population growth and urbanization.26

Broad River Basin 11

Concerned Citizens of Rutherford County has request-ed North Fork First Broad be reclassifies as HQW.

credit: Jeff DeBerardinis, North Carolina Division of Water Quality


South Mountains GamelandsThe South Mountains, containing forest in parts of Burke, Cleveland, McDowell, and Rutherford coun-ties, includes mountains reaching elevations of almost 3,000 feet. The South Mountains Game Lands stretch 17,829 acres, spanning more than 14 miles along the ridge of the South Mountains. These mountains are rich in biodiversity--rare natural communities located in the mountains such as cove for-ests and old-growth forests provide habitats for black bears, bobcats, minks, brook trout, and migratory songbirds. Twenty-two rare plant species are also found in the South Mountains. The Gamelands also provide excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, and hunting.27

The South Mountains Gameland shelters habit for many species, including brook trout

credit: NC Department of Commerce, Division of Tourism, film & Sports Development

Flowing through Rutherford County in the Broad River Basin, the North Fork First Broad River trav-els through an area that has recently become part of the South Mountains Game Land. The 17,000 acre South Mountains Natural Area is of national ecological significance--containing an impressive range of natural communities, and rare animal and plant populations. The North Fork First Broad River itself is home to endemic crayfish species. The forested area surrounding the river also shel-ters the watershed supplying the Town of Shelby with drinking water.28 Based on a request from the Concerned Citizens of Rutherford County, the Di-vision of Water Quality is now taking comments on a proposal to classify the river as an Outstanding Resource Water.

A second pristine waterway in the Broad River basin is Walnut Creek, which flows through Polk County. In addition to having excellent water qual-ity, the creek also has been given an excellent fish community rating. This rating reflects the abun-dance of fish species in the creek—during testing by the Division of Water Quality, more fish species were collected here than at any other site.29

Tests conducted on the portions of both the North Fork First Broad River and Walnut Creek have shown that these waterways have still retained ex-cellent water quality.30 As the Broad River basin continues to grow, however, the need to preserve the quality of these rivers increases.


Walnut Creek is home to a remarkable nmber of fish species.credit: Division of Water Quality - Environmental Sciences Section

Pristine Walnut Creek flows through Polk County.credit: Division of Water Quality - Environmental Sciences Section

French Broad River Basin 14

concern.33 Bank erosion and sedimentation, loss of riparian vegetation, polluted runoff, development, and livestock grazing are threats to water quality throughout the entire basin.34 As development con-tinues, the remaining pristine waters will fall victim to increases in sedimentation, erosion and polluted runoff.

The French Broad Basin’s major waterways, the French Broad River, the Pigeon River, and the No-lichucky River, flow northeast to Tennessee and eventually drain into the Gulf of Mexico.31 A large portion of the basin lies within the Pisgah National Forest or Pisgah Game Lands, while a section of the basin located in Haywood County is part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Mount Mitchell, the highest point in the country east of the Mississippi River is also located in the basin. Agricultural and developed lands tend to be concen-trated in the basin’s river valleys because steep ter-rain is not as suitable for development. Over time, the agricultural land has been overcome by develop-ment. Between 1982 and 2002, croplands decreased by about 46,700 acres, while urban and developed lands increased approximately 108,600.32

Generally, water quality is good in the basin—many waters are classified as HQW or ORW and trout wa-ters are common—but there are several issues of

Located in Haywood County, Jonathans Creek is threatened by development.

credit: Environment North Carolina Staff Photo

French Broad Basin: Jonathans Creek

French Broad River Basin 15

Smoky Mountains National ParkSmoky Mountains National Park draws 9 million visitors a year—more than any other national park. The park is located along the North Carolina-Tennessee border and is home to one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. In fact, the park contains more than 4,000 plant species, 130 trees, 65 mam-mals, 230 birds, and more species of salamander than are found anywhere else on the planet.41 The 520,976 acre park gets its name from the bluish mist, seen along mountainsides and throughout valleys. The highest elevation in the park is 6,643 feet at the summit of Clingmans Dome, and the lowest eleva-tion is 840 feet at the mouth of Abrams Creek.42

Jonathans Creek originates above the town of Mag-gie Valley, with a population of less than 80035, and flows through a heavily commercialized and agri-cultural area, which includes many dairy farms. The site furthest downstream flows through a residential area, where manicured lawns are found along the creek’s banks.36

In Haywood County, several sections of Jonathans Creek have been found to have excellent water quality.37 For years, the town of Maggie Valley has celebrated the creek by hosting the annual Great Smoky Mountain Trout Festival. This celebration includes environmental and educational programs, giving children time in the creek to learn about

aquatic ecology and how to fish.38 This concern for their environment, however, has not been enough to protect Jonathans Creek. In 2000, the Division of Water Quality reported that degradation from nonpoint sources has already been found in Jonathans Creek, noting that the creek drains Maggie Valley.39 Not surprisingly, the Haywood Waterways Association Watershed Action Plan cites increased development and “careless” mountainside development as long-term risks to the health of the Jonathans Creek Watershed.40 As more and more people move to the mountains, irresponsible development will put the health of Jonathans Creek at risk.

The beauty of the Smoky Mountains make it the most visited national park.

cred

it: N

C D

epar

tmen

t of C

omm

erce

, Div

isio

n of

Tou

rism

, film

& S

port

s Dev

elop

men

t

Little Tennessee River Basin 16

The Little Tennessee River begins its run in the mountains of northeastern Georgia and then flows through North Carolina be-fore entering Tennessee and joining the Tennessee River. The river’s path through North Carolina stretches between seven mountain ranges. The 1,800 square mile Little Tennessee Riv-er basin contains 2,500 miles of streams and rivers and 18,000 acres of lakes. The concentration of water bodies in this basin is remarkable when you consider that the basin contains more stream miles than the Roanoke and Tar-Pamlico River basins, which are two and three times larger than the Little Tennessee basin. Major tributaries of the Little Tennessee River include the Cullasaja, Nantahala, Tuckasegee and Cheoah Rivers. Lakes found within the basin include Fontana, Santeetlah, Nantahala and Glenville.43 The mountainous and mostly rural basin saw a population of about 79,493 in 2000, but also has experienced a boost in popu-lation due to recreation and tourism. Less than 5 percent of the basin is developed, and 89 percent remains forested44 and more than half of the basin is publicly owned and part of either the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or the Nantahala National Forest. Water quality in the basin is generally excellent and many streams are classified HQW or ORW and trout waters are also abundant. Development is potentially a threat to the basin’s water quality as the basin’s population is projected to increase 31 percent by the year 2020.45 From 1982-2002, the basin saw an increase of 35,500 acres of developed land.46 Throughout the basin, water quality threats include habitat degradation, including sedimenta-tion due to land clearing and rural roads, loss of riparian vegeta-tion, and polluted runoff. To a lesser degree, water quality and aquatic life impacts from dams and golf courses have also been identified as problems facing the basin’s water bodies.47 Flowing into Santeetlah Lake and running through Graham Coun-ty, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the entire reservation of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, West Buffalo Creek is one of the most scenic in the state. This beauty, however, is being threatened by nutrient pollution.48

According to the Division of Water Quality’s Basin Management Plan, nutrients from trout farming operations have caused im-pairment in the West Buffalo Creek arm of Santeetlah Lake. A special Santeelah Lake study in 1998 and 1999 found that trout

Little Tennessee River Basin: West Buffalo Creek, Cheoah River, Forney Creek and Hazel Creek

The beautiful Cheoah River travels through Craham County.

credit: Brad Claybon, High Frontier Cabins


farms located in the watersheds of the Snowbird Creek and West Buffalo Creek arms of the lake were causing accelerated eutrophication in those arms. Eutrophication is a process whereby water bodies are exposed to excessive nutrients that in turn lead to excessive plant growth (including algae and nuisance plants weeds). This enhanced plant growth reduces dissolved oxygen in the water when dead plant material decomposes and can cause oth-er organisms to die.49 The blue-green algae that can result from the excessive nutrients can release algal toxins in the lake and adversely affect the taste and odor of drinking water. Nutrient pollution is a threat to water quality as well as the species that live in

The Nantahala National ForestThe Nantahala National Forest includes mountains that surpass 5,000 feet (including Lone Bald’s summit at 5,800 feet), waterfalls, hardwood forests and rivers with whitewater rapids. The forest takes its name from the Indian word Nantahala, which means “land of the midday sun.”50 The forest is also the largest of North Carolina’s four national forests. Some of the aesthetic highlights of this spectacular forest include Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest which contains 400-year old trees, and Whitewater Falls—the highest falls east of the Rocky Mountains.51

the water. The West Buffalo Creek arm of the lake as been listed as impaired and only partly support-ing its uses for swimming and biological integrity.

The Cheoah River, also found in the Little Tennes-see Basin, is notable not only because of its high quality water, but also because of the unique habi-tats it provides. The Cheoah River’s floodplain is considered a state significant natural heritage area because of the rare and endangered species it con-tains. Most notably, this area is home to the Ju-naluska Salamander, a rare species endemic to Gra-ham County and neighboring Tennessee and that

cred

it: N

C D

epar

tmen

t of C

omm

erce

, Div

isio

n of

Tou

rism

, film

& S

port

s Dev

elop

men

t

is also a candidate for federal listing. Sections of the river are also home to the Appalachian Elktoe52, known only from the mountain streams of western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. Wastewater discharges and the runoff of fertilizers, pesticides, and other pollutants from poorly implemented land-use activities all have contributed to the de-cline and loss of populations of the Appalachian Elktoe and threaten the remaining populations.53

Much of the Cheoah River and significant sections of most of the river’s tributaries lie within the Nan-tahala National Forest, so they have been largely protected from the effects of development. Lower sections of the river and some of the river’s tribu-taries, however, are not within the forest, leaving them more open to pollution from land-disturbing activities.54

Located in Swain County, Forney Creek and Hazel Creek are nestled within the Great Smoky Moun-tains National Park, with Bryson City, Cherokee,

The Cheoah River is a favorite for white-water rafting. credit : Chris Bell, www.boatingbeta.com


Sylva, and Cullowhee the largest towns in the sub-basin. Due in part to their sheltered location, For-ney Creek and Hazel Creek are some of the most pristine streams in the state, with abundant trout populations. In fact, Hazel Creek and Forney Creek are known well beyond the borders of our state as a haven for trout fishing and are visited by fly-fishing enthusiasts from all over.

Unspoiled Forney and Hazel Creeks are also just two of the many waters that drain into the north side of Fontana Lake. Not only is the lake a favorite place for recreation, it is also an important drink-ing water source for communities—preserving the condition of the streams will also help protect water quality in Fontana Lake. Legislation passed by the General Assembly in the summer of 2005 recog-nizes the importance of these creeks and the impor-tance of clean water.55 The bill calls for the

Hazel Creek is one of the most unspoiled waters in the state. credit: David Nichols

initiation of the rulemaking process to declare For-ney Creek, Hazel Creek, and other tributaries of Fontana Lake as Outstanding Resource Waters.

Although the streams are unspoiled now, it is im-portant that they be given immediate protection. It is predicted that from the year 2000 to 2020, Swain County will see 22% growth.56 Growth manage-ment in this area will remain important to preserv-ing water quality. While both Forney Creek and Hazel Creek have consistently been given excellent ratings, threats remain throughout the sub-basin. The primary problem is pollution from non-point sources such as polluted runoff, which increases the amounts of sediment and nutrients in the water. De-velopment through the region is often located along the streams—new developments typically appear alongside waterways, often without buffer zones necessary to protect water quality.57


Formey Creek is a favorite fly -fishing destination. Credit: Kevin Adams, Kadamsphoto.com


The Neuse River flows from Person and Orange counties down to New Bern, where the river wid-ens and becomes a tidal estuary until it reaches the Pamlico Sound.58 Located entirely within the state, the Neuse River Basin is the state’s third largest.

The Neuse River Basin is developing rapidly. Be-tween 1982 and 2002, urban and built-up land cover increased by 313,100 acres. During this same peri-od, the basin also lost 226,700 acres of cropland and 154,100 acres of forestland.59 Between 1900 and 2000, counties that are wholly or partly contained within the basin grew by over 414,000 residents. By 2020, the county populations are predicted to swell by more than 867,000 to nearly three million people.

Durham, Johnston, Wake and Pitt Counties are among the fastest growing counties. As these coun-ties grow, so will the demand for drinking water and wastewater discharges throughout the Neuse River

Basin. Population growth will lead to more devel-opment in this basin, meaning natural areas will be-come scarce and impervious surfaces that increase the amount of polluted runoff will become more common.60

The Eno River plays an important role in the lives of many North Carolinians. The river is the heart of the Eno River State Park and several public park-lands such as the West Point on the Eno City Park. The river provides a sanctuary where people enjoy canoeing, fishing and hiking and is a main source stream for the Falls Lake reservoir, providing drink-ing water to communities including Raleigh, Dur-ham, and Hillsborough. The Eno River not only sus-tains local communities, but also sustains a number of rare and intolerant species habitats.

The Eno River’s corridor contains some of the most scenic and biologically important natural areas within the entire Eastern Piedmont. According to

Neuse River Basin: Eno River

Neuse River Basin 21

The Eno river is a haven for many Triangle residents.credit: Eno River Association

the Division of Water Quality, these portions of the Eno River are significant to biodiversity conserva-tion because they are home to many rare and intol-erant species. The area’s diverse wildlife includes nationally significant mussels, snails, salamanders, fish and other species.61

Much of the Eno is already protected, yet un-spoiled portions in Orange and Durham counties still remain vulnerable. Tests done on segments of the Eno River in Orange and Durham Counties have indicated that the river has excellent water quality.62 Without protection, however, this water

Eno River State ParkThe Eno River State Park covers 2,600 acres along the Eno River and offers five access areas into the largely unspoiled river. Visitors to the park enjoy camping, canoeing, fishing, hiking, picnicking, and special events like the Festival for the Eno. The park’s beautiful natural landscape includes slopes and bluffs covered with beautiful mountain laurel, Catawba rhododendron and ferns. Wildflowers and green-brier, grape and trumpet flower vines are also found in the park and wildlife is abundant as well. The park is also home to many animals; even beavers, once nearly extinct because of excessive trapping, can be seen along the river.64

Neuse River Basin 22


quality is threatened by impending growth. This concern has led Environment North Carolina Research & Policy Center to file a request to reclas-sify unprotected sections of the river as Outstand-ing Resource Water.

Development within the central part of the state, especially in the Triangle area, will only increase in the coming years. It has been estimated that by the year 2020, the Triangle will see a 64% increase in developed areas, adding over 356,000 developed acres.63

Savannah River Basin: Horsepasture RiverThe secluded upper Savannah River watershed is located in southwestern North Carolina and is the smallest basin in the state at 172 square miles. Rivers in the basin include the Tullulah, Chattooga, Horsepasture, and Toxaway. Ap-proximately two percent of the Savannah Riv-er basin is in North Carolina, and the remain-der is located in Georgia and South Carolina.65

Part of the basin is within the Nantahala National Forest, some 3,000 acres of the basin are Wildlife Resources Commission Game Lands, and Gorges State Park includes 7,000 basin acres. About 17 miles of the Chattooga River and 4.5 miles of the Horsepasture River have been designated as Na-tional Wild and Scenic Rivers; the designated seg-ment of the Horsepasture is the shortest in the Na-tional System. Sections of the Horsepasture have also been designated as a State Natural and Scenic

River. Flowing out of forests, there are five major waterfalls within two miles--Rainbow Falls is the largest of the five, with a vertical drop of approxi-mately 125 feet.66 The basin is also home to trout waters, and many rare and endangered species.

While most of the basin and the area surrounding the Horsepasture remains forested, there are areas of intense residential and golf course development. Development was heaviest in the 1980s, but con-tinues today, especially along some of the river’s tributaries. During the period from 1982 to 2002, development in the basin increased by 2,800 acres.67 Impacts from development were observed in the 1980s, and impacts from nonpoint source pollution are also evident. Development is still occurring in the river’s watershed, especially on tributaries. Commercial resorts and retirement and vacation home developments are being built and significant

Savannah River Basin 23

National Wild and Scenic River System and the North Carolina Natural and Scenic River System The landmark 1968 Wild and Scenic Rivers Act says “certain selected rivers” have “outstandingly remark-able” values and should be preserved in their free-flowing condition. Approximately 300 rivers, less than 1% of the country’s river miles, are designated Wild and Scenic Rivers. Only four North Carolina rivers have this designation: the Horsepasture, Lumber, and New rivers, and Wilson Creek. The designation pro-tects rivers against federally licensed dams, diversions, and other river development. It also restricts devel-opment on public land within a quarter-mile-wide riparian corridor. Wild and Scenic Rivers are classified as wild, scenic, or recreational—classifications that correspond to the level of preexisting development.71

Rivers within the North Carolina Natural and Scenic River System are designated as natural, scenic or recreational. The four rivers with this designation are the Horsepasture, Linville, Lumber, and New. This designation puts restrictions on projects like dams, reservoirs, and water resource projects but it does not place additional restrictions on wastewater discharge, forestry or agricultural activities, or development.72

Savannah River Basin 24

Horsepasture Creek, which runs through Transylvania County is one of the most beautiful in North Carolina.

credit: Rich Stevenson, www.ncwaterfalls.com


growth is expected in the near future.68

Although DWQ has not collected water quality for smaller streams in the watershed, further develop-ment in this area presents the potential for habitat degradation. Water quality concerns throughout the basin are habitat degradation, such as sedimentation (mostly due to land clearing activities, loss of ripar-ian vegetation, rural roads and trails) and polluted runoff from developed areas.69 Land use activities have contributed to lower bioclassifications in the Horsepasture in the past, therefore, smaller tributar-ies could be more heavily impacted. If water qual-ity in these smaller tributary streams deteriorates, eventually the Horsepasture will be impacted.70 It is important that steps be taken now to protect the river while it still remains unspoiled.The Pisgah Group of the Sierra Club has filed a request to re-classify the river as an Outstanding Resource Water.

Tar-Pamlico River Basin: Tar RiverThe Tar-Pamlico Basin is the fourth largest in the state. The Tar River and Pamlico River actually compose a single 180-mile river. The freshwater Tar River begins in the Piedmont, near Roxboro, and then becomes the brackish Pamlico between Washington and the Pamlico Sound. Major tributar-ies of the river include: Swift, Fishing, and Tranters creeks, the Cokey Swamp, and the Pungo River.73

The basin is 55% forest or wetland, and about 25% cultivated cropland and pasture/managed herba-ceous land cover.74 From 1982-2002, the basin has seen an increase in 117,900 acres of developed land while it lost 80,700 acres of forestland and 190,600 acres of cropland.75

The Tar River is home to many rare and endangered species. The most significant of these species is the Tar River Spinymussel. The Lower Tar Aquatic Habitat also provides habitat for the yellow lance, Atlantic pigtoe, yellow lampmussel, green floater,

triangle floater, Roanoke Bass, Carolina madtom, dwarf wedgemussel, and Neuse River waterdog, all of which are federally listed as “cause for con-cern.”76

Nestled in a bend of the Tar River, Tarboro was a historically important river port, the head of navi-

The Tar River is home to many threatened and endangered species.

credit: Pamlico-Tar River Foundation

Tar-Pamlico River Basin 25

gation on the Tar. As early as the 1730’s the small community formed due to this natural asset. The Tar River has always been an essential resource for Edgecombe County and the town of Tarboro, providing its citizens with abundant drinking water, transport of goods, and a favorite recreation spot. As historian Monika Fleming writes, “The Tar Riv-er flowing thorough the county has forever changed its landscape and people. It has nourished the land, provided a trade route, and offered entertainment...” Edgecombe County’s high regard for the river is re-flected in the excellent water quality that remains

in the region.The Pamlico Tar River Foundation has filed a request to reclassify portions of the Tar River as Outstanding Resource Waters.

Upstream developmental pressures from the Rocky Mount area will continue to stress the Tar River as more of the watershed is converted to pavement and aquatic habitats are smothered by sediment loads. Nutrient and sediment loads from forestry opera-tions and agriculture also add to the stress on natu-ral waterways in the region.

Tar River Spinymussel Twelve rare freshwater mussels live in the upper basin. Among these mussels is the Tar River Spiny-mussel, found only in five short sections of the Tar River and its tributaries and nowhere else in the world. The Tar River Spinymussel also has unique spines on its outer shell--only two other freshwater mussels have spines.77 The spinymussel now occupies only about 1% of its probable historical range.78 The best spinymussel populations are associated with areas composed mainly of woodlands, stable stream banks with extensive root systems, and limited pollution.79

Tar-Pamlico River Basin 26

cred

it: N

C D

epar

tmen

t of C

omm

erce

, Div

isio

n of

Tou

rism

, film

& S

port

s Dev

elop

men

t

Appendix A

River Selection Process

The first step in identifying waters needing protection was to identify rivers and streams with excellent water quality that were not already given High Quality Waters or Outstanding Resource Waters designa-tions. Excellent water quality is determined by the Department of Environment and Natural Resource’s (DENR) Division of Water Quality (DWQ). One way of testing water quality is through the study of benthic mac-roinvertebrates. Benthic macroinvertebrates (mostly aquatic insects that live at least part of their life cycle on the bottom of streams and rivers) have been shown to be very sensitive to the effects of water pollution. When waters are polluted, intolerant benthic macroinvertebrates are eliminated and are replaced by tolerant forms. Bioclassification criteria have been developed that are based on the number of organisms present and the relative pollution tolerance of each. Stream and river reaches are then given a final bioclassification rating ranging from Excellent to Poor. The division also conducts fish community monitoring. Fish community monitoring involves assessing a stream’s biological integrity by looking at the structure and health of fish communities. This assessment accounts for factors such as species richness and composition, trophic composition, fish abundance and fish condition. For a number of reasons, it was decided that the best way of determining water quality is to use the benthic macroinvertebrate results. Most rivers and streams have been given a benthic rating, while fish community monitoring is limited to streams wadeable from one shoreline to the other for a distance of 600 feet. Also, after examining the department’s description of the two programs, benthic scores appear to be more closely correlated with actual water quality than are the fish community ratings. Using data from the individual Basinwide Water Quality Plans available on the Division of Water Quality’s web site (http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/), a list was created of waterways receiving excellent benthic macroinvertebrate scores. This list was then cross referenced with the department’s stream classification reports listing waters already designated as High Quality Waters or Outstanding Resource Waters to ensure the creation of a list of waters without protective designations already in place (or which are tributaries to such waters and receive comparable protections).80

From this list, priority was given to those waters containing an important resource needing protection (in-cluding endangered/rare species habitat; significant part of a state park or forest; or named a state or na-tional scenic river). From there rivers located in a variety of locations were chosen. Due to the fact that the majority of rivers on our initial list of rivers with excellent water quality were located in the western part of the state, many of the final candidates are located in western North Carolina counties. From this smaller list of rivers, final selections were made based on feedback from the Division of Water Quality, either through communication with individuals or statements made in the Basinwide Water Quality Plans, indicating that the individual waterway was a good candidate for reclassification.

Appendix A 27

Appendix B

Use Designations:All North Carolina surface waters are assigned a primary classification by NCDWQ. State surface waters must, at a minimum, meet Class C standards. Class C waters are fishable and swimmable. The remaining primary classifications provide higher levels of protection for primary water contact recreation (Class B) and drinking water (Water Supply I through V).

1. C: Class C waters are protected for agricultural uses, fishing, wildlife, aquatic life reproduction and survival, and secondary recreation, encompassing activities like wading and boating. Class C waters have no restrictions on watershed development or types of discharges.

2. B: Class B waters are protected for primary recreation activities and other uses permitted in Class C waters. Primary recreational activities include swimming, skin diving, and water skiing. Class B waters have no restrictions on watershed development or types of discharges.

3. WS-I: WS-I waters are used as water supply sources for drinking, culinary, and food processing purposes. These waters are also protected for Class C uses. WS-I waters are within publicly-owned natural and unde-veloped watersheds that do not permit point source (wastewater) discharges. All WS-I waters are HQW by definition.

4. WS-II: WS-II waters are potable and protected for Class C uses, but are not as highly protected as WS-I waters. Generally, WS-II waters are in predominantly undeveloped watersheds. Only general permits for discharges are allowed. All WS-II waters are HQW by definition.

5. WS-III: WS-III waters are potable and are protected for Class C uses. WS-III waters are generally located in low to moderately developed watersheds. Only general discharge permits are allowed near the water sup-ply intake, however, domestic and nonprocess industrial discharges are allowed in the remaining portion of the water supply watershed.

6. WS-IV: WS-IV waters are used as sources of potable water where a WS-I, II or III classification is not feasible. These waters are also protected for Class C uses. WS-IV waters are generally in protected areas or moderately to highly developed watersheds and have no categorical restrictions on discharges.

7. WS-V: WS-V waters are protected as water supplies. These waters are also protected for Class C uses. WS-V waters include no categorical restrictions on watershed development or wastewater discharges. Lo-cal governments are not required to adopt watershed protection laws. [All water quality rating info from http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/csu/swc.html]

Appendix B 28

Appendix CWaterways with Excellent Benthos sample ratings*

Alamance CountyStinking Quarter Creek Cape Fear Basin

Alleghany CountyL Glade Branch New Basin Meadow Fork New BasinReeves Branch New Basin

Ashe CountyBig Laurel Creek New BasinBuffalo Creek New BasinCranberry Creek New Basin Helton Creek New BasinHoskins Fork New BasinRich Hill Creek New BasinRoan Creek New Basin

Avery CountyRoaring Creek French Broad Basin

Buncombe CountyBoyds Branch French Broad BasinBent Creek French Broad BasinFlat Creek French Broad BasinReems Creek French Broad Basin

Cherokee CountyBrasstown Creek Hiwassee BasinBeaverdam Creek Hiwassee BasinHanging Dog Creek Hiwassee BasinHyatt Creek Hiwassee Basin Owl Creek Hiwassee BasinPeachtree Creek Hiwassee BasinPersimmon Creek Hiwassee BasinShuler Creek Hiwassee BasinTatham Creek Hiwassee Basin Welch Mill Creek Hiwassee Basin

Cumberland CountyJumping Run Creek Cape Fear Basin

Durham CountyLittle River Neuse BasinDeep River Cape Fear Basin

Appendix C 29

Gaston CountyLeepers Creek Catawba Basin

Graham CountyCheoah River Little Tennessee BasinHooper Mill Creek Little Tennessee BasinL Snowbird Creek Little Tennessee Basin

Haywood CountyCold Springs Creek French Broad BasinE Fork Pigeon R. French Broad BasinW. Fork Pigeon River French Broad Basin

Henderson CountyBroad River Broad BasinHarper Creek French Broad BasinJoe Creek Broad Basin

Jackson CountyCullowhee Creek Little Tennessee BasinMoses Creek Little Tennessee Basin

Lincoln CountyLeepers Creek Catawba Basin

Macon CountyBig Choga Creek Little Tennessee Basin Brush Creek Little Tennessee BasinBurningtown Creek Little Tennessee BasinCoweeta Creek Little Tennessee BasinCullasaja River Little Tennessee BasinEllijay Creek Little Tennessee BasinTellico Creek Little Tennessee BasinTurtle Pond Creek Little Tennessee Basin

Madison CountyE Prong Hickory Fork French Broad BasinHickory Fork French Broad BasinPuncheon Fork French Broad BasinShelton Laurel Creek French Broad BasinSpring Creek French Broad BasinW. Prong Hickory Fork French Broad Basin

Mitchell CountyBig Crabtree Creek French Broad BasinBig Rock Creek French Broad BasinPigeonroost Creek French Broad BasinR Fork Cane Creek French Broad Basin

Appendix C 30

Moore CountyNicks Creek Cape Fear Basin

Montgomery CountyUwharrie River Yadkin-Pee Dee BasinW. Fork Little River Yadkin-Pee Dee Basin

Person CountyDeep River Cape Fear Basin

Rockingham CountyDan River Roanoke Basin

Stokes CountyArchies Creek Roanoke BasinPeters Creek Roanoke Basin

Swain CountyConley Creek Little Tennessee BasinForney Creek Little Tennessee BasinHazel Creek Little Tennessee BasinNoland Creek Little Tennessee BasinStecoah Creek Little Tennessee Basin

Transylvania CountyCarson Creek French Broad BasinDavidson River French Broad BasinFrench Broad River French Broad BasinM Fork French Broad French Broad Basin Thompson River Savannah Basin

Watauga CountyBeech Creek Watauga BasinLance Creek Watauga BasinNorris Fork New BasinPine Orchard Creek New Basin

Yancey CountyBald Mountain Creek French Broad BasinCane River French Broad Basin

*according to DWQ’s Basinwide Assessment Reports and Basinwide Water Quality Plans

Appendix C 31

Endnotes

1 U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service, Natural Resources Inventory, Preliminary Data, http://www.nhq.nrcs.usda.gov/CCS/NRIrlse.html. Cited in Brookings Institution, Adding It Up: Growth Trends and Policies in North Carolina, July 2000, http://www.brookings.edu/dybdocroot/es/ urban/ncreport.pdf. The four states that developed more land than North Carolina are Texas, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Florida.

2 Polluted Runoff in North Carolina: The effect of polluted runoff on North Carolina’s waters, NCPIRG Education Fund, Fall 2005, pg. 8.

3 Losing Our Natural Heritage: North Carolina’s Disappearing Open Spaces, William Coyne, Elizabeth Ouzts, Fall 2003, pg 5. 4 Ibid. 5 Division of Water Quality, WQ Citizen Guide on the Web. Downloaded from http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/ WQ%20citizen%20guide%20on%20the%20web.pdf, June 30, 2004 (page 4). 6 Sum of impaired stream miles in North Carolina river basins, as reported in North Carolina Department of Natural Resources, 303(d) Impaired Waters List, prepared for US EPA under the federal Clean Water Act. 7 North Carolina Water Quality Assessment and Impaired Waters List (2004 Integrated 305(b) and 303(d) Report), pg. 42, avail-

able at http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/tmdl/General_303d.htm. 8 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, Citizen’s Guide to Water Quality, p.4 (citing Schueler, Tom. 1994. The Importance of

Imperviousness. Watershed Protection Techniques. Vol. 1, No. 3. Fall 1994). http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/WQ%20citizen%20guide%20on%20the%20web.pdf 9 http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/WQ%20citizen%20guide%20on%20the%20web.pdf 10 For information on sources of sedimentation and other nonpoint source pollution, see the Division of Water Quality’s Nonpoint

Source Management Program at http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/nps/whatisnps.htm 11 Department of Environment and Natural Resources, http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/nps/What_is_NPS/const.htm 12 Department of Environment and Natural Resources, http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/nps/What_is_NPS/urban.htm 13 NCPIRG Education Fund, The Value of Open Space: How Preserving North Carolina’s Natural Heritage Benefits Our Econo-

my and Quality of Life (June 2004), p. 12. 14 http://www.nccommerce.com/tourism/econ/FastFactsEI_04v2.pdf. 15 http://www.nccommerce.com/tourism/econ/FastFactsVisitor_04.pdf 16 Ibid. 17 http://www.nccommerce.com/tourism/econ/FastFactsEI_04v2.pdf. 18 http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/wswp/mapping.htm 19 “...the commercial fishing-harvesting sector generated 578 full-time equivalent jobs and had a total economic impact of $144

million in 2001.” An Economic Profile Analysis of the Commercial Fishing Industry of North Carolina Including Profiles for the Coastal Fishing Counties, Alan Bianchi, September 2003, pg. 27. Available at: http://www.ncfisheries.net/download/EconomicProfile1.PDF

20 Our Lakes at Risk: The Impact of Growth On North Carolina’s Water Quality, NCPIRG Education Fund, Summer 2005, pg. 7. 21 http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/csu/swc.html 22 http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/csu/swc.html 23 North Carolina Division of Water Quality 2003 Broad River Basinwide Water Quality Plan, Executive Summary,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/Broad/2002/plan.htm. 24 Ibid. 25 Our Lakes at Risk: The Impact of Growth On North Carolina’s Water Quality, NCPIRG Education Fund, Summer 2005, pg. 13. 26 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2003 Broad River Basinwide Water Quality Plan, Chp. 4, p. 1,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/Broad/2002/plan.htm 27 Foothills Land Conservancy, http://www.foothillsconservancy.org/somoco.html 28 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2003 Broad River Basinwide Water Quality Plan,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/Broad/2002/plan.htm. 29 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, Basinwide Assessment Report, Broad River Basin, 2001,

http://www.esb.enr.state.nc.us/Basinwide/BRD2001.pdf. 30 Excellent water quality was found in the North Fork First Broad as recently as 2005, memo from Elizabeth Kountis to Alan

Clark, “Proposed Reclassification of the North Fork First Broad River from Class C TR to Class C Tr ORW, found at: http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/admin/emc/2005/documents/11wqc03a.doc. Walnut Creek was found to have excellent water quality in 2003; http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/Broad/2002/documents/B2_Broad_03.pdf.

Endnotes 32

31 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2005 French Broad Basinwide Water Quality Plan, Executive Summary, http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/FrenchBroadRiverBasin.htm.

32 Our Lakes at Risk: The Impact of Growth On North Carolina’s Water Quality, NCPIRG Education Fund, Summer 2005, pg. 17. 33 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2000 French Broad Basinwide Water Quality Plan, Chp. 4, p. 1,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/french/frenchbroad_wq_management_plan.htm. 34 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2000 French Broad Basinwide Water Quality Plan, Executive Summary,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/french/frenchbroad_wq_management_plan.htm. 35 North Carolina State Demographics, http://demog.state.nc.us/. Reported population in April 2000 was 607 and estimated popula-

tion for July 2003 was 787. 36 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2000 French Broad Basinwide Water Quality Plan,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/french/frenchbroad_wq_management_plan.htm.. 37 Ibid. 38 www.gsmtroutfestival.org 39 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2000 French Broad Basinwide Water Quality Plan,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/french/frenchbroad_wq_management_plan.htm. 40 Haywood Waterways Association Watershed Action Plan, pg. 39, http://www.pagemanager.com/haywoodwaterways/watershed.

htm 41 http://gorp.away.com/gorp/resource/us_national_park/tn_great.htm. 42 http://www.imagesbuilder.com/gsmnp/ 43 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2002 Little Tennessee River Basinwide Water Quality Plan, Executive Summary,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/Little_Tennessee/2002/2002_plan.htm 44 Ibid. 45 Ibid. 46 Our Lakes at Risk: The Impact of Growth On North Carolina’s Water Quality, NCPIRG Education Fund, Summer 2005, pg. 19. 47 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2002 Little Tennessee River Basinwide Water Quality Plan, Chp. 4, p. 1,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/Little_Tennessee/2002/2002_plan.htm. 48 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2002 Little Tennessee River Basinwide Water Quality Plan,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/Little_Tennessee/2002/2002_plan.htm. 49 USGS Toxic Substances Hydrology Program, http://toxics.usgs.gov/definitions/eutrophication.html. 50 http://gorp.away.com/gorp/resource/us_national_forest/nc_nanta.htm 51 NC Natural, http://ncnatural.com/NCUSFS/Nantahala/index.html. 52 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2002 Little Tennessee River Basinwide Water Quality Plan,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/Little_Tennessee/2002/2002_plan.htm. 53 US Fish & Wildlife Service, http://nc-es.fws.gov/mussel/appelk.html. 54 Ibid. 55 2005 House Bill 1189 56 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, Little Tennessee Basinwide Water Quality Plan, 2002,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/Little_Tennessee/2002/2002_plan.htm. 57 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, Basinwide Assessment Report, Little Tennessee 2005,

http://www.esb.enr.state.nc.us/Basinwide/LTN2005.pdf. 58 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2002 Neuse River Basinwide Water Quality Plan, Executive Summary,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/Neuse/2002/plan.htm. 59 Our Lakes at Risk: The Impact of Growth On North Carolina’s Water Quality, NCPIRG Education Fund, Summer 2005, pg. 22. 60 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2002 Neuse River Basinwide Water Quality Plan, Executive Summary,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/Neuse/2002/plan.htm. 61 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, Basinwide Assessment Report, Neuse River Basin, 2001,

http://www.esb.enr.state.nc.us/Basinwide/NEU2001.pdf. 62 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2002 Neuse River Basinwide Water Quality Plan, Executive Summary, Chapter 1,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/Neuse/2002/Section%20B%20Chapter%201.pdf. 63 Losing Our Natural Heritage: North Carolina’s Disappearing Open Spaces, Coyne, William, & Ouzts, Elizabeth, NCPIRG Educa-

tional Fund, Fall 2003. 64 NC Division of Parks and Recreation, Eno River State Park, http://ils.unc.edu/parkproject/visit/enri/home.html.

Endnotes 33

65 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2002 Savannah River Basinwide Water Quality Plan, http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/savannah/2002/SAV%20Sec%20A%20Chap%202.pdf.

66 National Wild and Scenic River System, Horsepasture River, http://www.nps.gov/rivers/wsr-horsepasture.html. 67 Our Lakes at Risk: The Impact of Growth On North Carolina’s Water Quality, NCPIRG Education Fund, Summer 2005, pg. 26. 68 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2002 Savannah River Basinwide Water Quality Plan, Executive Summary,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/savannah/2002/SAV%20Sec%20A%20Chap%202.pdf. 69 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2002 Savannah River Basinwide Water Quality Plan. Chp. 4, p.1,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/savannah/2002/SAV%20Sec%20A%20Chap%202.pdf. 70 Ibid. 71 River Network, http://www.rivernetwork.org/library/index.cfm?doc_id=158 72 NC Division of Parks and Recreation, NC Natural and Scenic Rivers Program,

http://www.ils.unc.edu/parkproject/resource/river.html. 73 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2004 Tar-Pamlico Basinwide Water Quality Plan, Executive Summary,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/tarpam_draft_dec2003.html. 74 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2004 Tar-Pamlico Basinwide Water Quality Plan, Executive Summary,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/tarpam_draft_dec2003.html. 75 Our Lakes at Risk: The Impact of Growth On North Carolina’s Water Quality, NCPIRG Education Fund, Summer 2005, pg. 27. 76 North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 2004 Tar-Pamlico Basinwide Water Quality Plan,

http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/basinwide/tarpam_draft_dec2003.html. 77 Discover North Carolina’s River Basins, NCDENR Office of Environmental Education (2002). 78 NatureServe. 2004. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available

http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: July 27, 2004 ). 79 NatureServe. 2004. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available

http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: July 27, 2004 )(citing North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Database containing location information and habitat characteristics of freshwater mussels).

80 These classification reports can be found using DWQ’s Basinwide Information Management Systems [BIMS] at http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/bims/Reports/reports.html

Endnotes 34

preserving our last unspoiled waters s pristine rivers ... · this pollution occurs when rain hits...

Documents