**Sparrows Point Project**

**Environmental Construction Plan**

***Based on:***

***Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)***

***Upland Erosion Control, Revegetation and Maintenance Plan***

***and***

***FERC Wetland and Waterbody Construction***

***and Mitigation Procedures***

**Bold text indicates additions or modifications to the FERC's Plan**

**and Procedures based on:**

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

Office of Water Management

Erosion and Sediment Pollution Control Program Manual, April 15, 2000

and

Maryland Department of the Environment

Water Management and Administration

Maryland Standards and Specifications for Soil Erosion and Sediment
Control, 1994

**\_\_\_\_**

###############  {#section .unnumbered}

###############  {#section-1 .unnumbered}

############### LIST OF FIGURES {#list-of-figures .unnumbered}

###############  {#section-2 .unnumbered}

**[[No. Description]{.underline}]{.smallcaps}**

1 Typical Pipeline Construction Sequence

2.  Typical Construction Right-of-Way Cross Sections

3.  ROW Topsoil Segregation Techniques

4.  Temporary Road Entrance -- Rock Pads

5.  Temporary Road Entrance -- Terra Mats

6.  Interceptor Diversion Typical Details

7.  Filter Fence Typical Details

8.  Reinforced Silt Fence

9.  Baled Straw Filter Detail

10. Rock Filter Outlet

11. Trench Breaker Typical Details

12. Runoff Ditch

13. Typical Paved Road Crossing Control Measures (Open Cut)

14. Typical Paved Road Crossing Measures (Bored)

15. Typical Equipment Crossing (Timber Mat Bridge)

16. Typical Equipment Crossing (Rock/Flume)

17. Typical Dam and Pump Stream Crossing

18. Typical Flumed Stream Crossing

> 18a Typical Details Cofferdam Crossing

19. Typical Open Cut Stream Crossing

20. Dewatering Filter Bag Typical Details

21. Streambank Stabilization (Erosion Control Fabric) Typical Details

22. Streambank Stabilization (Rip Rap) Typical Details

23. Typical Wetland Crossing (Conventional)

24. Typical Wetland Crossing (Push Pull)

25. Pipe Test Energy Dissipater

26. Typical Construction Techniques in Residential Areas

27. Typical Construction Techniques in Restricted Residential Areas

# 

**FERC UPLAND EROSION CONTROL, REVEGETATION, AND MAINTENANCE PLAN
(1/17/2003 Version)**

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. APPLICABILITY [1](#i.-applicability)

II\. SUPERVISION AND INSPECTION [2](#ii.-supervision-and-inspection)

A. ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTION [2](#a.-environmental-inspection)

B. RESPONSIBILITIES OF ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTORS
[2](#b.-responsibilities-of-environmental-inspectors)

III\. PRECONSTRUCTION PLANNING [4](#iii.-preconstruction-planning)

A. CONSTRUCTION WORK AREAS [4](#a.-construction-work-areas)

B. DRAIN TILE AND IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
[4](#b.-drain-tile-and-irrigation-systems)

C. GRAZING DEFERMENT [4](#c.-grazing-deferment)

D. ROAD CROSSINGS AND ACCESS POINTS
[4](#d.-road-crossings-and-access-points)

E. DISPOSAL PLANNING [5](#e.-disposal-planning)

F. AGENCY COORDINATION [5](#f.-agency-coordination)

G. STORMWATER POLLUTION PREVENTION PLAN
[5](#g.-stormwater-pollution-prevention-plan)

IV\. INSTALLATION [5](#iv.-installation)

A. APPROVED AREAS OF DISTURBANCE [5](#a.-approved-areas-of-disturbance)

B. TOPSOIL SEGREGATION [6](#b.-topsoil-segregation)

C. DRAIN TILES [7](#c.-drain-tiles)

D. IRRIGATION [7](#d.-irrigation)

E. ROAD CROSSINGS AND ACCESS POINTS
[8](#e.-road-crossings-and-access-points)

F. TEMPORARY EROSION CONTROL [8](#f.-temporary-erosion-control)

1\. Temporary Slope Breakers **(see figure Plan-3)**
[8](#temporary-slope-breakersdiversion-ditches-see-figure-6)

2\. Sediment Barriers [9](#sediment-barriers-see-figures-7-8-9-and-10)

3\. Mulch [9](#mulch)

V. RESTORATION [10](#v.-restoration)

A. CLEANUP [10](#a.-cleanup)

B. PERMANENT EROSION CONTROL DEVICES
[11](#b.-permanent-erosion-control-devices)

1\. Trench Breakers **(see figure Plan-6)**
[11](#trench-breakers-see-figure-11)

2\. Permanent Slope Breakers **(see figure Plan-3)**
[12](#permanent-slope-breakersdiversion-ditches-see-figure-6)

C. SOIL COMPACTION MITIGATION [13](#c.-soil-compaction-mitigation)

D. REVEGETATION [13](#d.-revegetation)

1\. General [13](#general)

2\. Soil Additives [14](#soil-additives)

3\. Seeding Requirements [14](#seeding-requirements)

VI\. OFF-ROAD VEHICLE CONTROL [15](#vi.-off-road-vehicle-control)

VII\. POST-CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES
[15](#vii.-post-construction-activities)

A. MONITORING AND MAINTENANCE [15](#a.-monitoring-and-maintenance)

B. REPORTING [16](#b.-reporting)

***Proposed additions or modifications presented within text in bold --
based on Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Environmental
Protection, Office of Water Management, Erosion and Sediment Pollution
Control Program Manual, April 15, 2000 and Maryland Department of the
Environment, Water Management and Administration, Maryland Standards and
Specifications for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control, 1994*.**

**FERC's UPLAND EROSION CONTROL, REVEGETATION, AND MAINTENANCE PLAN
(1/17/2003 Version)**

# 

##### [I. APPLICABILITY]{.underline}

> A. The intent of this Plan is to assist applicants by identifying
> baseline mitigation measures for minimizing erosion and enhancing
> revegetation. The project sponsors should specify in their
> applications for a FERC Certificate (Certificate) any individual
> measures in this Plan they consider unnecessary, technically
> infeasible, or unsuitable due to local conditions and to fully
> describe any alternative measures they would use. Applicants should
> also explain how those alternative measures would achieve a comparable
> level of mitigation.
>
> Once a project is certificated, further changes can be approved. Any
> such changes from the measures in this Plan (or the applicant's
> approved plan) will be approved by the Director of the Office of
> Energy Projects (Director), upon the applicant's written request, if
> the Director agrees that an alternative measure:
>
> 1\. provides equal or better environmental protection;
>
> 2\. is necessary because a portion of this Plan is infeasible or
> unworkable based on project-specific conditions; or
>
> 3\. is specifically required in writing by another Federal, state, or
> Native American land management agency for the portion of the project
> on its land or under its jurisdiction.
>
> Any requirements in this Plan to file material with the Secretary of
> the FERC (Secretary) do not apply to projects undertaken under the
> provisions of the blanket certificate program. This exemption does not
> apply to a request for alternative measures.
>
> Project-related impacts on wetland and waterbody systems are addressed
> in the staff's Wetland and Waterbody Construction and Mitigation
> Procedures (Procedures).

##### [II. SUPERVISION AND INSPECTION]{.underline}

###### A. ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTION

> 1\. At least one Environmental Inspector is required for each
> construction spread during construction and restoration (as defined by
> section V). The number and experience of Environmental Inspectors
> assigned to each construction spread should be appropriate for the
> length of the construction spread and the number/significance of
> resources affected.
>
> 2\. Environmental Inspectors shall have peer status with all other
> activity inspectors.
>
> 3\. Environmental Inspectors shall have the authority to stop
> activities that violate the environmental conditions of the
> Certificate, state and Federal environmental permit conditions, or
> landowner requirements; and to order appropriate corrective action.

###### B. RESPONSIBILITIES OF ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTORS

> At a minimum, the Environmental Inspector(s) shall be responsible for:
>
> 1\. Ensuring compliance with the requirements of this Plan, the
> Procedures, the environmental conditions of the Certificate
> authorization, the mitigation measures proposed by the applicant (as
> approved and/or modified by the Certificate), other environmental
> permits and approvals, and environmental requirements in landowner
> easement agreements.
>
> 2\. Identifying, documenting, and overseeing corrective actions, as
> necessary to bring an activity back into compliance;
>
> 3\. Verifying that the limits of authorized construction work areas
> and locations of access roads are properly marked before clearing;
>
> 4\. Verifying the location of signs and highly visible flagging
> marking the boundaries of sensitive resource areas, waterbodies,
> wetlands, or areas with special requirements along the construction
> work area;
>
> 5\. Identifying erosion/sediment control and soil stabilization needs
> in all areas;
>
> 6\. Ensuring that the location of dewatering structures and slope
> breakers will not direct water into known cultural resources sites or
> locations of sensitive species;
>
> 7\. Verifying that trench dewatering activities do not result in the
> deposition of sand, silt, and/or sediment near the point of discharge
> into a wetland or waterbody. If such deposition is occurring, the
> dewatering activity shall be stopped and the design of the discharge
> shall be changed to prevent reoccurrence;
>
> 8\. Ensuring that subsoil and topsoil are tested in agricultural and
> residential areas to measure compaction and determine the need for
> corrective action;
>
> 9\. Advising the Chief Construction Inspector when conditions (such as
> wet weather) make it advisable to restrict construction activities to
> avoid excessive rutting;
>
> 10\. Ensuring restoration of contours and topsoil;
>
> 11\. Verifying that the soils imported for agricultural or residential
> use have been certified as free of noxious weeds and soil pests,
> unless otherwise approved by the landowner;
>
> 12\. Determining the need for and ensuring that erosion controls are
> properly installed, as necessary to prevent sediment flow into
> wetlands, waterbodies, sensitive areas, and onto roads;
>
> 13\. Inspecting and ensuring the maintenance of temporary erosion
> control measures at least:
>
> a\. on a daily basis in areas of active construction or equipment
> operation;
>
> b\. on a weekly basis in areas with no construction or equipment
> operation; and
>
> c\. within 24 hours of each 0.5 inch of rainfall;
>
> 14\. Ensuring the repair of all ineffective temporary erosion control
> measures within 24 hours of identification;
>
> 15\. Keeping records of compliance with the environmental conditions
> of the FERC certificate, and the mitigation measures proposed by the
> project sponsor in the application submitted to the FERC, and other
> Federal or state environmental permits during active construction and
> restoration; and
>
> 16\. Identifying areas that should be given special attention to
> ensure stabilization and restoration after the construction phase;

##### [III. PRECONSTRUCTION PLANNING]{.underline}

> The project sponsor shall do the following before construction:

###### A. CONSTRUCTION WORK AREAS

> 1\. Identify all construction work areas (e.g., construction
> right-of-way, extra work space areas, pipe storage and contractor
> yards, borrow and disposal areas, access roads, etc.) that would be
> needed for safe construction. The project sponsor must ensure that
> appropriate cultural resources and biological surveys have been
> conducted.
>
> 2\. Project sponsors are encouraged to consider expanding any required
> cultural resources and endangered species surveys in anticipation of
> the need for activities outside of certificated work areas.

###### B. DRAIN TILE AND IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

> 1\. Attempt to locate existing drain tiles and irrigation systems.
>
> 2\. Contact landowners and local soil conservation authorities to
> determine the locations of future drain tiles that are likely to be
> installed within 3 years of the authorized construction.
>
> 3\. Develop procedures for constructing through drain-tiled areas,
> maintaining irrigation systems during construction, and repairing
> drain tiles and irrigation systems after construction.
>
> 4\. Engage qualified drain tile specialists, as needed to conduct or
> monitor repairs to drain tile systems affected by construction. Use
> drain tile specialists from the project area, if available.

###### C. GRAZING DEFERMENT

> Develop grazing deferment plans with willing landowners, grazing
> permittees, and land management agencies to minimize grazing
> disturbance of revegetation efforts.

###### D. ROAD CROSSINGS AND ACCESS POINTS

> Plan for safe and accessible conditions at all roadway crossings and
> access points during construction and restoration. **See Figures 13
> and 14 for Typical Paved Road Crossing Control Measures (Open Cut and
> Bored).**

###### E. DISPOSAL PLANNING

> Determine methods and locations for the disposal of construction
> debris (e.g., timber, slash, mats, garbage, drilling fluids, excess
> rock, etc). Off-site disposal in other than commercially operated
> disposal locations is subject to compliance with all applicable
> survey, landowner permission, and mitigation requirements.

###### F. AGENCY COORDINATION

> The project sponsor must coordinate with the appropriate local, state,
> and Federal agencies as outlined in this Plan and in the Certificate.
>
> 1\. Obtain written recommendations from the local soil conservation
> authorities or land management agencies regarding permanent erosion
> control and revegetation specifications.
>
> 2\. Develop specific procedures in coordination with the appropriate
> agency to prevent the introduction or spread of noxious weeds and soil
> pests resulting from construction and restoration activities.

###### G. STORMWATER POLLUTION PREVENTION PLAN

> Make available on each construction spread the Stormwater Pollution
> Prevention Plan prepared for compliance with the U.S. Environmental
> Protection Agency\'s National Stormwater Program General Permit
> requirements.

##### [IV. INSTALLATION]{.underline}

###### A. APPROVED AREAS OF DISTURBANCE

> 1\. Project-related ground disturbance shall be limited to the
> construction right-of-way, extra work space areas, pipe storage yards,
> borrow and disposal areas, access roads, and other areas approved in
> the Certificate. Any project-related ground disturbing activities
> outside these Certificated areas, except those needed to comply with
> the Plan and Procedures (e.g., slope breakers, energy-dissipating
> devices, dewatering structures, drain tile system repairs) will
> require prior Director approval. All construction or restoration
> activities outside of the Certificated areas are subject to all
> applicable survey and mitigation requirements.
>
> **Construction of a natural gas pipeline consists of distinct phases:
> clearing, grading, ditching, lowering-in, backfilling, hydrostatic
> testing and restoration, as shown in Figure 1.**
>
> 2\. The construction right-of-way width for a project shall not exceed
> 75 feet or that described in the FERC application unless otherwise
> modified by a Certificate condition. However, in limited, non-wetland
> areas, this construction right-of-way width may be expanded by up to
> 25 feet without Director approval to accommodate full construction
> right-of-way topsoil segregation and to ensure safe construction where
> topographic conditions (such as side-slopes) or soil limitations
> require it. Twenty-five feet of extra construction right-of-way width
> may also be used in limited, non-wetland or non-forested areas for
> truck turn-arounds where no reasonable alternative access exists.
>
> **Figures 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d are typical ROW configurations showing
> how construction activities will be organized within the construction
> right-of-way.**
>
> Project use of these additional limited areas is subject to landowner
> approval and compliance with all applicable survey and mitigation
> requirements. When such additional areas are used, each one should be
> identified and the need explained in the weekly or biweekly
> construction reports to the FERC, if required. The following material
> should be included in the reports:
>
> a\. the location of each additional area by station number and
> reference to a previously filed alignment sheet, or updated alignment
> sheets showing the additional areas;
>
> b\. identification of where the Commission\'s records contain evidence
> that the additional areas were previously surveyed; and
>
> c\. a statement that landowner approval has been obtained and is
> available in project files.
>
> Prior written approval of the Director is required when the
> Certificated construction right-of-way width would be expanded by more
> than 25 feet.

###### B. TOPSOIL SEGREGATION

> **Figure 3 shows the typical construction right-of-way configuration
> during topsoil segregation.**
>
> 1\. Unless the landowner or land management agency specifically
> approves otherwise, prevent the mixing of topsoil with subsoil by
> stripping topsoil from either the full work area or from the trench
> and subsoil storage area (ditch plus spoil side method) in:
>
> a\. actively cultivated or rotated croplands and pastures ;
>
> b\. residential areas;

c\. hayfields; and

> d\. other areas at the landowner\'s or land managing agency's request.
>
> 2\. In residential areas importation of topsoil is an acceptable
> alternative to topsoil segregation.
>
> 3\. In deep soils (more than 12 inches of topsoil), segregate at least
> 12 inches of topsoil. In soils with less than 12 inches of topsoil
> make every effort to segregate the entire topsoil layer.
>
> 4\. Where topsoil segregation is required, maintain separation of
> salvaged topsoil and subsoil throughout all construction activities.
>
> 5\. Segregated topsoil may not be used for padding the pipe.

###### C. DRAIN TILES

> 1\. Mark locations of drain tiles damaged during construction.
>
> 2\. Probe all drainage tile systems within the area of disturbance to
> check for damage.
>
> 3\. Repair damaged drain tiles to their original or better condition.
> Do not use filter-covered drain tiles unless the local soil
> conservation authorities and the landowner agree. Use qualified
> specialists for testing and repairs.
>
> 4\. For new pipelines in areas where drain tiles exist or are planned,
> ensure that the depth of cover over the pipeline is sufficient to
> avoid interference with drain tile systems. For adjacent pipeline
> loops in agricultural areas, install the new pipeline with at least
> the same depth of cover as the existing pipeline(s).

###### D. IRRIGATION

> Maintain water flow in crop irrigation systems, unless shutoff is
> coordinated with affected parties.

###### E. ROAD CROSSINGS AND ACCESS POINTS

> **Figures 4 and 5 show typical temporary entrance pads (rock pads and
> terra/tire mats) used where the right-of-way crosses roads to minimize
> the tracking of mud onto public roadways.**
>
> 1\. Maintain safe and accessible conditions at all road crossings and
> access points during construction.
>
> 2\. If crushed stone access pads are used in residential, or active
> agricultural areas, place the stone on synthetic fabric to facilitate
> removal.

###### F. TEMPORARY EROSION CONTROL

> **Figures 6 through 11 show typical erosion control devices used
> during clearing, grading, and ditching phases of construction (i.e.,
> Diversion Ditches \[Water Bars/Slope Breakers\], Filter \[Silt\]
> Fence, Reinforced Silt Fence, Hay Bales, Rock Filter Outlet, and
> Runoff Ditch.**
>
> Install temporary erosion controls immediately after initial
> disturbance of the soil. Temporary erosion controls must be properly
> maintained throughout construction (on a daily basis) and reinstalled
> as necessary (such as after backfilling of the trench) until replaced
> by permanent erosion controls or restoration is complete.

####### 1. Temporary Slope Breakers**/Diversion Ditches (see Figure 6)**

> a\. Temporary slope breakers are intended to reduce runoff velocity
> and divert water off the construction right-of-way. Temporary slope
> breakers may be constructed of materials such as soil, silt fence,
> staked hay or straw bales, or sand bags.
>
> b\. Install temporary slope breakers on all disturbed areas, as
> necessary to avoid excessive erosion. Temporary slope breakers must be
> installed on slopes greater than 5 percent where the base of the slope
> is less than 50 feet from waterbody, wetland, and road crossings at
> the following spacing (closer spacing should be used if necessary):

[Slope (%)]{.underline} [Spacing (feet)]{.underline}

5 - 15 300

\>15 - 30 200

\>30 100

> c\. Direct the outfall of each temporary slope breaker to a stable,
> well vegetated area or construct an energy-dissipating device at the
> end of the slope breaker and off the construction right-of-way.
>
> d\. Position the outfall of each temporary slope breaker to prevent
> sediment discharge into wetlands, waterbodies, or other sensitive
> resources.

####### 2. Sediment Barriers **(see Figures 7, 8, 9, and [10]{.mark})**

> a\. Sediment barriers are intended to stop the flow of sediments and
> to prevent the deposition of sediments into sensitive resources. They
> may be constructed of materials such as silt fence, staked hay or
> straw bales, compacted earth (e.g., driveable berms across
> travelways), sand bags, or other appropriate materials.
>
> b\. At a minimum, install and maintain temporary sediment barriers
> across the entire construction right-of-way at the base of slopes
> greater than 5 percent where the base of the slope is less than 50
> feet from a waterbody, wetland, or road crossing until revegetation is
> successful as defined in this Plan. Leave adequate room between the
> base of the slope and the sediment barrier to accommodate ponding of
> water and sediment deposition.
>
> c\. Where wetlands or waterbodies are adjacent to and downslope of
> construction work areas, install sediment barriers along the edge of
> these areas, as necessary to prevent sediment flow into the wetland or
> waterbody.
>
> **d. If any section of silt fence or straw bale barrier has been
> undermined or topped, install a rock filter outlet to replace the
> section (see Figure 10).**

####### 3. Mulch

> a\. Apply mulch on all slopes (except in actively cultivated cropland)
> concurrent with or immediately after seeding, where necessary to
> stabilize the soil surface and to reduce wind and water erosion.
> Spread mulch uniformly over the area to cover at least 75 percent of
> the ground surface at a rate of 2 tons/acre of straw or its
> equivalent, unless the local soil conservation authority, landowner,
> or land managing agency approves otherwise in writing.
>
> b\. Mulch can consist of weed-free straw or hay, wood fiber
> hydromulch, erosion control fabric, or some functional equivalent.
>
> c\. Mulch [before]{.underline} seeding if:
>
> \(1\) final grading and installation of permanent erosion control
> measures, will not be completed in an area within 20 days after the
> trench in that area is backfilled (10 days in residential areas), as
> required in section V.A.1; or
>
> \(2\) construction or restoration activity is interrupted for extended
> periods, such as when seeding cannot be completed due to seeding
> period restrictions.
>
> d\. If mulching [before]{.underline} seeding, increase mulch
> application on all slopes within 100 feet of waterbodies and wetlands
> to a rate of 3 tons/acre of straw or equivalent.
>
> e\. If wood chips are used as mulch, do not use more than 1 ton/acre
> and add the equivalent of 11 lbs/acre available nitrogen (at least 50
> percent of which is slow release).
>
> f\. Ensure that mulch is adequately anchored to minimize loss due to
> wind and water.
>
> g\. When anchoring with liquid mulch binders, use rates recommended by
> the manufacturer. Do not use liquid mulch binders within 100 feet of
> wetlands or waterbodies.
>
> h\. Install erosion control fabric on waterbody banks at the time of
> final bank recontouring. Anchor the erosion control fabric with pegs,
> staples or other appropriate devices.

##### [V. RESTORATION]{.underline}

###### A. CLEANUP

> 1\. Commence cleanup operations immediately following backfill
> operations. Complete final grading, topsoil replacement, and
> installation of permanent erosion control structures within 20 days
> after backfilling the trench (10 days in residential areas). If
> seasonal or other weather conditions prevent compliance with these
> time frames, maintain temporary erosion controls (temporary slope
> breakers and sediment barriers) until conditions allow completion of
> cleanup.
>
> The project sponsor should file with the Secretary for the review and
> written approval of the Director, a winterization plan if construction
> will continue into the winter season when conditions could delay
> successful decompaction, topsoil replacement, or seeding until the
> following spring.
>
> 2\. A travel lane may be left open temporarily to allow access by
> construction traffic if the temporary erosion control structures are
> installed as specified in section IV.F. and inspected and maintained
> as specified in sections II.B.12 through 14. When access is no longer
> required the travel lane must be removed and the right-of-way
> restored.
>
> 3\. Rock excavated from the trench may be used to backfill the trench
> only to the top of the existing bedrock profile. Rock that is not
> returned to the trench should be considered construction debris,
> unless approved for use as mulch or for some other use on the
> construction work areas by the landowner or land managing agency.
>
> 4\. Remove excess rock from at least the top 12 inches of soil in all
> actively cultivated or rotated cropland and pastures, hayfields, and
> residential areas, as well as other areas at the landowner\'s request.
> The size, density, and distribution of rock on the construction work
> area should be similar to adjacent areas not disturbed by
> construction. The landowner may approve other provisions in writing.
>
> 5\. Grade the construction right-of-way to restore pre-construction
> contours and leave the soil in the proper condition for planting.
>
> 6\. Remove construction debris from all construction work areas unless
> the landowner or land managing agency approves otherwise.
>
> 7\. Remove temporary sediment barriers when replaced by permanent
> erosion control measures or when revegetation is successful.

###### B. PERMANENT EROSION CONTROL DEVICES

####### 1. Trench Breakers **(see Figure 11)**

> a\. Trench breakers are intended to slow the flow of subsurface water
> along the trench. Trench breakers may be constructed of materials such
> as sand bags or polyurethane foam. Do not use topsoil in trench
> breakers.
>
> b\. An engineer or similarly qualified professional shall determine
> the need for and spacing of trench breakers. Otherwise, trench
> breakers shall be installed at the same spacing as and upslope of
> permanent slope breakers.
>
> c\. In agricultural fields and residential areas where slope breakers
> are not typically required, install trench breakers at the same
> spacing as if permanent slope breakers were required.
>
> d\. At a minimum, install a trench breaker at the base of slopes
> greater than 5 percent where the base of the slope is less than 50
> feet from a waterbody or wetland and where needed to avoid draining a
> waterbody or wetland.

####### 2. Permanent Slope Breakers**/Diversion Ditches (see Figure 6)**

> a\. Permanent slope breakers are intended to reduce runoff velocity,
> divert water off the construction right-of-way, and prevent sediment
> deposition into sensitive resources. Permanent slope breakers may be
> constructed of materials such as soil, sand bags, or some functional
> equivalent.
>
> b\. Construct and maintain permanent slope breakers in all areas,
> except cultivated areas and lawns, using spacing recommendations
> obtained from the local soil conservation authority or land managing
> agency.
>
> In the absence of written recommendations, use the following spacing
> unless closer spacing is necessary to avoid excessive erosion on the
> construction right-of-way:

[Slope (%)]{.underline} [Spacing (feet)]{.underline}

5 - 15 300

\>15 - 30 200

\>30 100

> **Note: Pennsylvania erosion control specifications call for closer
> spacing for [permanent]{.underline} slope breakers, as indicated on
> Figure 6:**

**[Slope (%)]{.underline} [Spacing (feet)]{.underline}**

**5 - 15 150**

**\>15 - 30 100**

**\>30 50**

> c\. Construct slope breakers to divert surface flow to a stable area
> without causing water to pool or erode behind the breaker. In the
> absence of a stable area, construct appropriate energy-dissipating
> devices at the end of the breaker.
>
> d\. Slope breakers may extend slightly (about 4 feet) beyond the edge
> of the construction right-of-way to effectively drain water off the
> disturbed area. Where slope breakers extend beyond the edge of the
> construction right-of-way, they are subject to compliance with all
> applicable survey requirements.

e.  **Runoff ditches also may be used to reduce the velocity of surface
    water runoff (see Figure 12).**

###### C. SOIL COMPACTION MITIGATION

> 1\. Test topsoil and subsoil for compaction at regular intervals in
> agricultural and residential areas disturbed by construction
> activities. Conduct tests on the same soil type under similar moisture
> conditions in undisturbed areas to approximate preconstruction
> conditions. Use penetrometers or other appropriate devices to conduct
> tests.
>
> 2\. Plow severely compacted agricultural areas with a paraplow or
> other deep tillage implement. In areas where topsoil has been
> segregated, plow the subsoil before replacing the segregated topsoil.
>
> Alternatively, make arrangements with the landowner to plant and plow
> under a \"green manure\" crop, such as alfalfa, to decrease soil bulk
> density and improve soil structure. If subsequent construction and
> cleanup activities result in further compaction, conduct additional
> tilling.
>
> 3\. Perform appropriate soil compaction mitigation in severely
> compacted residential areas.

###### D. REVEGETATION

####### 1. General

> a\. The project sponsor is responsible for ensuring successful
> revegetation of soils disturbed by project-related activities, except
> as noted in section V.D.1.b.
>
> b\. Restore all turf, ornamental shrubs, and specialized landscaping
> in accordance with the landowner\'s request, or compensate the
> landowner. Restoration work must be performed by personnel familiar
> with local horticultural and turf establishment practices.

####### 2. Soil Additives

> Fertilize and add soil pH modifiers in accordance with written
> recommendations obtained from the local soil conservation authority,
> land management agencies, or landowner. Incorporate recommended soil
> pH modifier and fertilizer into the top 2 inches of soil as soon as
> possible after application.

####### 3. Seeding Requirements

> a\. Prepare a seedbed in disturbed areas to a depth of 3 to 4 inches
> using appropriate equipment to provide a firm seedbed. When
> hydroseeding, scarify the seedbed to facilitate lodging and
> germination of seed.
>
> b\. Seed disturbed areas in accordance with written recommendations
> for seed mixes, rates, and dates obtained from the local soil
> conservation authority or the request of the landowner or land
> management agency. Seeding is not required in actively cultivated
> croplands unless requested by the landowner.
>
> **[See Attachment A for proposed seed mixes.]{.underline}**
>
> c\. Perform seeding of permanent vegetation within the recommended
> seeding dates. If seeding cannot be done within those dates, use
> appropriate temporary erosion control measures discussed in section
> IV.F. and perform seeding of permanent vegetation at the beginning of
> the next recommended seeding season. Lawns may be seeded on a schedule
> established with the landowner.
>
> d\. In the absence of written recommendations from the local soil
> conservation authorities, seed all disturbed soils within 6 working
> days of final grading, weather and soil conditions permitting, subject
> to the specifications in section V.D.3.a-c.
>
> e\. Base seeding rates on Pure Live Seed. Use seed within 12 months of
> seed testing.
>
> f\. Treat legume seed with an inoculant specific to the species using
> the manufacturer's recommended rate of inoculant appropriate for the
> seeding method (broadcast, drill, or hydro).
>
> g\. In the absence of written recommendations from the local soil
> conservation authorities, landowner, or land managing agency to the
> contrary, a seed drill equipped with a cultipacker is preferred for
> seed application.
>
> Broadcast or hydroseeding can be used in lieu of drilling at double
> the recommended seeding rates. Where seed is broadcast, firm the
> seedbed with a cultipacker or roller after seeding. In rocky soils or
> where site conditions may limit the effectiveness of this equipment,
> other alternatives may be appropriate (e.g., use of a chain drag) to
> lightly cover seed after application, as approved by the Environmental
> Inspector.

##### [VI. OFF-ROAD VEHICLE CONTROL]{.underline}

> To each owner or manager of forested lands offer to install and
> maintain measures to control unauthorized vehicle access to the
> right-of-way. These measures may include:
>
> A. Signs;
>
> B. Fences with locking gates;
>
> C. Slash and timber barriers, pipe barriers, or a line of boulders
> across the right-of-way; and
>
> D. Conifers or other appropriate trees**/**or shrubs across the
> right-of-way.

##### [VII. POST-CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES]{.underline}

###### A. MONITORING AND MAINTENANCE

> 1\. Conduct follow-up inspections of all disturbed areas after the
> first and second growing seasons to determine the success of
> revegetation.
>
> 2\. Revegetation in non-agricultural areas shall be considered
> successful if upon visual survey the density and cover of non-nuisance
> vegetation are similar in density and cover to adjacent undisturbed
> lands. In agricultural areas, revegetation shall be considered
> successful if crop yields are similar to adjacent undisturbed portions
> of the same field.
>
> Continue revegetation efforts until revegetation is successful.
>
> 3\. Monitor and correct problems with drainage and irrigation systems
> resulting from pipeline construction in active agricultural areas
> until restoration is successful.
>
> 4\. Restoration shall be considered successful if the right-of-way
> surface condition is similar to adjacent undisturbed lands,
> construction debris is removed (unless requested otherwise by the land
> owner or land managing agency), revegetation is successful, and proper
> drainage has been restored.
>
> 5\. Routine vegetation maintenance clearing shall not be done more
> frequently than every 3 years. However, to facilitate periodic
> corrosion and leak surveys, a corridor not exceeding 10 feet in width
> centered on the pipeline may be maintained annually in a herbaceous
> state. In no case shall routine vegetation maintenance clearing occur
> between April 15 and August 1 of any year.
>
> 6\. Efforts to control unauthorized off-road vehicle use, in
> cooperation with the landowner, shall continue throughout the life of
> the project. Maintain signs, gates, and vehicle trails as necessary.

###### B. REPORTING

> 1\. The project sponsor shall maintain records that identify by
> milepost:
>
> a\. method of application, application rate, and type of fertilizer,
> pH modifying agent, seed, and mulch used;
>
> b\. acreage treated;

c\. dates of backfilling and seeding;

> d\. names of landowners requesting special seeding treatment and a
> description of the follow-up actions; and
>
> e\. any problem areas and how they were addressed.
>
> 2\. The project sponsor shall file with the Secretary quarterly
> activity reports documenting problems, including those identified by
> the landowner, and corrective actions taken for at least 2 years
> following construction.

**FERC's WETLAND AND WATERBODY CONSTRUCTION AND MITIGATION PROCEDURES
(1/17/2003 Version)**

# 

**TABLE OF CONTENTS**

I. APPLICABILITY [1](#i.-applicability-1)

II\. PRECONSTRUCTION FILING [2](#ii.-preconstruction-filing)

III\. ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTORS [3](#iii.-environmental-inspectors)

IV\. PRECONSTRUCTION PLANNING [3](#iv.-preconstruction-planning)

V. WATERBODY CROSSINGS [5](#v.-waterbody-crossings)

A. NOTIFICATION PROCEDURES AND PERMITS
[5](#a.-notification-procedures-and-permits)

B. INSTALLATION [5](#b.-installation)

1\. Time Window for Construction [5](#time-window-for-construction)

2\. Extra Work Areas [5](#extra-work-areas)

3\. General Crossing Procedures [6](#general-crossing-procedures)

4\. Spoil Pile Placement and Control
[6](#spoil-pile-placement-and-control)

5\. Equipment Bridges [7](#equipment-bridges)

6\. Dry-Ditch Crossing Methods [8](#dry-ditch-crossing-methods)

7\. Crossings of Minor Waterbodies (see figure Proc-8)
[9](#crossings-of-minor-waterbodies)

8\. Crossings of Intermediate Waterbodies
[10](#crossings-of-intermediate-waterbodies)

9\. Crossings of Major Waterbodies [10](#crossings-of-major-waterbodies)

10\. Temporary Erosion and Sediment Control
[10](#temporary-erosion-and-sediment-control)

11\. Trench Dewatering [11](#trench-dewatering)

C. RESTORATION [11](#c.-restoration)

D. POST-CONSTRUCTION MAINTENANCE [12](#d.-post-construction-maintenance)

VI\. WETLAND CROSSINGS [13](#vi.-wetland-crossings)

A. GENERAL [13](#a.-general)

B. INSTALLATION [14](#b.-installation-1)

1\. Extra Work Areas and Access Roads
[14](#extra-work-areas-and-access-roads)

2\. Crossing Procedures [15](#crossing-procedures)

3\. Temporary Sediment Control [16](#temporary-sediment-control)

4\. Trench Dewatering [17](#trench-dewatering-1)

C. RESTORATION [17](#c.-restoration-1)

D. POST-CONSTRUCTION MAINTENANCE
[18](#d.-post-construction-maintenance-1)

VII\. HYDROSTATIC TESTING [19](#vii.-hydrostatic-testing)

A. NOTIFICATION PROCEDURES AND PERMITS
[19](#a.-notification-procedures-and-permits-1)

B. GENERAL [19](#b.-general)

C. INTAKE SOURCE AND RATE [19](#c.-intake-source-and-rate)

D. DISCHARGE LOCATION, METHOD, AND RATE
[20](#d.-discharge-location-method-and-rate)

***Proposed additions or modifications presented within text in bold --
based on Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Environmental
Protection, Office of Water Management, Erosion and Sediment Pollution
Control Program Manual, April 15, 2000 and Maryland Department of the
Environment, Water Management and Administration, Maryland Standards and
Specifications for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control, 1994.***

**FERC's WETLAND AND WATERBODY CONSTRUCTION AND MITIGATION PROCEDURES
(1/17/2003 Version)**

## [I. APPLICABILITY]{.underline}

> A. The intent of these Procedures is to assist applicants by
> identifying baseline mitigation measures for minimizing the extent and
> duration of project-related disturbance on wetlands and waterbodies.
> The project sponsors should specify in their applications for a FERC
> Certificate (Certificate) any individual measures in these Procedures
> they consider unnecessary, technically infeasible, or unsuitable due
> to local conditions and to fully describe any alternative measures
> they would use. Applicants should also explain how those alternative
> measures would achieve a comparable level of mitigation.
>
> Once a project is certificated, further changes can be approved. Any
> such changes from the measures in these Procedures (or the applicant's
> approved procedures) will be approved by the Director of the Office of
> Energy Projects (Director), upon the applicant's written request, if
> the Director agrees that an alternative measure:
>
> 1\. provides equal or better environmental protection;
>
> 2\. is necessary because a portion of these Procedures is infeasible
> or unworkable based on project-specific conditions; or
>
> 3\. is specifically required in writing by another Federal, state, or
> Native American land management agency for the portion of the project
> on its land or under its jurisdiction.
>
> Any requirements in these Procedures to file material with the
> Secretary of the FERC (Secretary) do not apply to projects undertaken
> under the provisions of the blanket certificate program. This
> exemption does not apply to a request for alternative measures.
>
> Project-related impacts on non-wetland areas are addressed in the
> staff's Upland Erosion Control, Revegetation, and Maintenance Plan
> (Plan).
>
> B. DEFINITIONS
>
> 1\. \"Waterbody\" includes any natural or artificial stream, river, or
> drainage with perceptible flow [at the time of crossing]{.underline},
> and other permanent waterbodies such as ponds and lakes:
>
> a\. \"minor waterbody\" includes all waterbodies less than or equal to
> 10 feet wide at the water\'s edge [at the time of
> construction]{.underline};
>
> b\. \"intermediate waterbody\" includes all waterbodies greater than
> 10 feet wide but less than or equal to 100 feet wide at the water\'s
> edge [at the time of construction]{.underline}; and
>
> c\. \"major waterbody\" includes all waterbodies greater than 100 feet
> wide at the water\'s edge [at the time of construction]{.underline}.
>
> 2\. \"Wetland\" includes any area that is not in actively cultivated
> or rotated cropland and that satisfies the requirements of the current
> Federal methodology for identifying and delineating wetlands.

## [II. PRECONSTRUCTION FILING]{.underline}

V.  The following information shall be filed with the Secretary prior to
    the beginning of construction:

> 1\. the hydrostatic testing information specified in section VII.B.3.
> and a wetland delineation report as described in section VI.A.1., if
> applicable; and
>
> 2\. a schedule identifying when trenching or blasting would occur
> within each waterbody greater than 10 feet wide, or within any
> designated coldwater fishery. The project sponsor shall revise the
> schedule as necessary to provide FERC staff at least 14 days advance
> notice. Changes within this last 14-day period must provide for at
> least 48 hours advance notice.
>
> B. The following site-specific construction plans required by these
> Procedures must be filed with the Secretary for the review and written
> approval by the Director:
>
> 1\. plans for extra work areas that would be closer than 50 feet from
> a waterbody or wetland;
>
> 2\. plans for major waterbody crossings;
>
> 3\. plans for the use of a construction right-of-way greater than 75
> feet wide in wetlands; and
>
> 4\. plans for horizontal directional drill (HDD) \"crossings\" of
> wetlands or waterbodies.

## [III. ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTORS]{.underline}

> A. At least one Environmental Inspector having knowledge of the
> wetland and waterbody conditions in the project area is required for
> each construction spread. The number and experience of Environmental
> Inspectors assigned to each construction spread should be appropriate
> for the length of the construction spread and the number/significance
> of resources affected.
>
> B. The Environmental Inspector\'s responsibilities are outlined in the
> Upland Erosion Control, Revegetation, and Maintenance Plan (Plan).

## [IV. PRECONSTRUCTION PLANNING]{.underline}

> A. A copy of the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) prepared
> for compliance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency\'s (EPA)
> National Stormwater Program General Permit requirements must be
> available in the field on each construction spread. The SWPPP shall
> contain Spill Prevention and Response Procedures that meet the
> requirements of state and Federal agencies.
>
> 1\. It shall be the responsibility of the project sponsor and its
> contractors to structure their operations in a manner that reduces the
> risk of spills or the accidental exposure of fuels or hazardous
> materials to waterbodies or wetlands. The project sponsor and its
> contractors must, at a minimum, ensure that:
>
> a\. all employees handling fuels and other hazardous materials are
> properly trained;
>
> b\. all equipment is in good operating order and inspected on a
> regular basis;
>
> c\. fuel trucks transporting fuel to on-site equipment travel only on
> approved access roads;
>
> d\. all equipment is parked overnight and/or fueled at least 100 feet
> from a waterbody or in an upland area at least 100 feet from a wetland
> boundary. These activities can occur closer only if the Environmental
> Inspector finds, in advance, no reasonable alternative and the project
> sponsor and its contractors have taken appropriate steps (including
> secondary containment structures) to prevent spills and provide for
> prompt cleanup in the event of a spill;
>
> e\. hazardous materials, including chemicals, fuels, and lubricating
> oils, are not stored within 100 feet of a wetland, waterbody, or
> designated municipal watershed area, unless the location is designated
> for such use by an appropriate governmental authority. This applies to
> storage of these materials and does not apply to normal operation or
> use of equipment in these areas; and
>
> f\. concrete coating activities are not performed within 100 feet of a
> wetland or waterbody boundary, unless the location is an existing
> industrial site designated for such use.
>
> 2\. The project sponsor and its contractors must structure their
> operations in a manner that provides for the prompt and effective
> cleanup of spills of fuel and other hazardous materials. At a minimum,
> the project sponsor and its contractors must:
>
> a\. ensure that each construction crew (including cleanup crews) has
> on hand sufficient supplies of absorbent and barrier materials to
> allow the rapid containment and recovery of spilled materials and
> knows the procedure for reporting spills;
>
> b\. ensure that each construction crew has on hand sufficient tools
> and material to stop leaks;
>
> c\. know the contact names and telephone numbers for all local, state,
> and Federal agencies (including, if necessary, the U. S. Coast Guard
> and the National Response Center) that must be notified of a spill;
> and
>
> d\. follow the requirements of those agencies in cleaning up the
> spill, in excavating and disposing of soils or other materials
> contaminated by a spill, and in collecting and disposing of waste
> generated during spill cleanup.
>
> B. AGENCY COORDINATION
>
> The project sponsor must coordinate with the appropriate local, state,
> and Federal agencies as outlined in these Procedures and in the
> Certificate.

## [V. WATERBODY CROSSINGS]{.underline}

### A. NOTIFICATION PROCEDURES AND PERMITS

> 1\. Apply to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), or its delegated
> agency, for the appropriate wetland and waterbody crossing permits.
>
> 2\. Provide written notification to authorities responsible for
> potable surface water supply intakes located within 3 miles downstream
> of the crossing at least 1 week before beginning work in the
> waterbody, or as otherwise specified by that authority.
>
> 3\. Apply for state-issued waterbody crossing permits and obtain
> individual or generic section 401 water quality certification or
> waiver.
>
> 4\. Notify appropriate state authorities at least 48 hours before
> beginning trenching or blasting within the waterbody, or as specified
> in state permits.

### B. INSTALLATION

#### 1. Time Window for Construction

> Unless expressly permitted or further restricted by the appropriate
> state agency in writing on a site-specific basis, instream work,
> except that required to install or remove equipment bridges, must
> occur during the following time windows:
>
> a\. coldwater fisheries - June 1 through September 30; and
>
> b\. coolwater and warmwater fisheries - June 1 through November 30.

#### 2. Extra Work Areas

> a\. Locate all extra work areas (such as staging areas and additional
> spoil storage areas) at least 50 feet away from water's edge, except
> where the adjacent upland consists of actively cultivated or rotated
> cropland or other disturbed land.
>
> b\. The project sponsor shall file with the Secretary for review and
> written approval by the Director, a site-specific construction plan
> for each extra work area with a less than 50-foot setback from the
> water\'s edge, (except where the adjacent upland consists of actively
> cultivated or rotated cropland or other disturbed land) and a
> site-specific explanation of the conditions that will not permit a
> 50-foot setback.
>
> c\. Limit clearing of vegetation between extra work areas and the edge
> of the waterbody to the certificated construction right-of-way.
>
> d\. Limit the size of extra work areas to the minimum needed to
> construct the waterbody crossing.

#### 3. General Crossing Procedures

> a\. Comply with the COE, or its delegated agency, permit terms and
> conditions.
>
> b\. Construct crossings as close to perpendicular to the axis of the
> waterbody channel as engineering and routing conditions permit.
>
> c\. If the pipeline parallels a waterbody, attempt to maintain at
> least 15 feet of undisturbed vegetation between the waterbody (and any
> adjacent wetland) and the construction right-of-way.
>
> d\. Where waterbodies meander or have multiple channels, route the
> pipeline to minimize the number of waterbody crossings.
>
> e\. Maintain adequate flow rates to protect aquatic life, and prevent
> the interruption of existing downstream uses.

f.  Waterbody buffers (extra work area setbacks, refueling restrictions,
    etc.) must be clearly marked in the field with signs and/or highly
    visible flagging until construction-related ground disturbing
    activities are complete.

#### 4. Spoil Pile Placement and Control

> a\. All spoil from minor and intermediate waterbody crossings, and
> upland spoil from major waterbody crossings, must be placed in the
> construction right-of-way at least 10 feet from the water\'s edge or
> in additional extra work areas as described in section V.B.2.
>
> b\. Use sediment barriers to prevent the flow of spoil or heavily
> silt-laden water into any waterbody.

#### 5. Equipment Bridges

> a\. Only clearing equipment and equipment necessary for installation
> of equipment bridges may cross waterbodies prior to bridge
> installation. Limit the number of such crossings of each waterbody to
> one per piece of clearing equipment.
>
> b\. Construct equipment bridges to maintain unrestricted flow and to
> prevent soil from entering the waterbody. Examples of such bridges
> include:
>
> \(1\) equipment pads and culvert(s) **(see Figure 15)**;
>
> \(2\) equipment pads or railroad car bridges without culverts **(see
> Figure 15)**;
>
> \(3\) clean rock fill and culvert(s) **(see Figure 16)**; and
>
> \(4\) flexi-float or portable bridges.
>
> Additional options for equipment bridges may be utilized that achieve
> the performance objectives noted above. Do not use soil to construct
> or stabilize equipment bridges.
>
> c\. Design and maintain each equipment bridge to withstand and pass
> the highest flow expected to occur while the bridge is in place. Align
> culverts to prevent bank erosion or streambed scour. If necessary,
> install energy dissipating devices downstream of the culverts.
>
> d\. Design and maintain equipment bridges to prevent soil from
> entering the waterbody.
>
> e\. Remove equipment bridges as soon as possible after permanent
> seeding unless the COE, or its delegated agency, authorizes it as a
> permanent bridge.
>
> f\. If there will be more than 1 month between final cleanup and the
> beginning of permanent seeding and reasonable alternative access to
> the right-of-way is available, remove equipment bridges as soon as
> possible after final cleanup.

#### 6. Dry-Ditch Crossing Methods

> a\. Unless approved otherwise by the appropriate state agency, install
> the pipeline using one of the dry-ditch methods outlined below for
> crossings of waterbodies up to 30 feet wide (at the water\'s edge at
> the time of construction) that are state-designated as either
> coldwater or significant coolwater or warmwater fisheries.

b\. Dam and Pump **(see Figure 17)**

> \(1\) The dam-and-pump method may be used without prior approval for
> crossings of waterbodies where pumps can adequately transfer
> streamflow volumes around the work area, and there are no concerns
> about sensitive species passage.
>
> \(2\) Implementation of the dam-and-pump crossing method must meet the
> following performance criteria:
>
> \(i\) use sufficient pumps, including on-site backup pumps, to
> maintain downstream flows;
>
> \(ii\) construct dams with materials that prevent sediment and other
> pollutants from entering the waterbody (e.g., sandbags or clean gravel
> with plastic liner);
>
> \(iii\) screen pump intakes;
>
> \(iv\) prevent streambed scour at pump discharge; and
>
> \(v\) monitor the dam and pumps to ensure proper operation throughout
> the waterbody crossing.
>
> c\. Flume Crossing **(see Figure 18)**
>
> The flume crossing method requires implementation of the following
> steps:
>
> \(1\) install flume pipe after blasting (if necessary), but before any
> trenching;
>
> \(2\) use sand bag or sand bag and plastic sheeting diversion
> structure or equivalent to develop an effective seal and to divert
> stream flow through the flume pipe (some modifications to the stream
> bottom may be required in to achieve an effective seal);
>
> \(3\) properly align flume pipe(s) to prevent bank erosion and
> streambed scour;
>
> \(4\) do not remove flume pipe during trenching, pipelaying, or
> backfilling activities, or initial streambed restoration efforts; and
>
> \(5\) remove all flume pipes and dams that are not also part of the
> equipment bridge as soon as final cleanup of the stream bed and bank
> is complete.
>
> d\. Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) **(see separate site specific
> drawings, as applicable)**
>
> To the extent they were not provided as part of the pre-certification
> process, for each waterbody or wetland that would be crossed using the
> HDD method, provide a plan that includes:
>
> \(1\) site-specific construction diagrams that show the location of
> mud pits, pipe assembly areas, and all areas to be disturbed or
> cleared for construction;
>
> \(2\) a description of how an inadvertent release of drilling mud
> would be contained and cleaned up; and
>
> \(3\) a contingency plan for crossing the waterbody or wetland in the
> event the directional drill is unsuccessful and how the abandoned
> drill hole would be sealed, if necessary.

#### 7. Crossings of Minor Waterbodies

> Where a dry-ditch crossing is not required, minor waterbodies may be
> crossed using the open-cut crossing method **(see Figure 19)**, with
> the following restrictions:
>
> a\. except for blasting and other rock breaking measures, complete
> instream construction activities (including trenching, pipe
> installation, backfill, and restoration of the streambed contours)
> within 24 hours. Streambanks and unconsolidated streambeds may require
> additional restoration after this period;
>
> b\. limit use of equipment operating in the waterbody to that needed
> to construct the crossing; and

c\. equipment bridges are not required at minor waterbodies that do not
have a state-designated fishery classification (e.g., agricultural or
intermittent drainage ditches). However, if an equipment bridge is used
it must be constructed as described in section V.B.5.

#### 8. Crossings of Intermediate Waterbodies

> Where a dry-ditch crossing is not required, intermediate waterbodies
> may be crossed using the open-cut crossing method **(see Figure 19)**,
> with the following restrictions:
>
> a\. complete instream construction activities (not including blasting
> and other rock breaking measures) within 48 hours, unless
> site-specific conditions make completion within 48 hours infeasible;
>
> b\. limit use of equipment operating in the waterbody to that needed
> to construct the crossing; and
>
> c\. all other construction equipment must cross on an equipment bridge
> as specified in section V.B.5.

#### 9. Crossings of Major Waterbodies

> Before construction, the project sponsor shall file with the Secretary
> for the review and written approval by the Director a detailed,
> site-specific construction plan and scaled drawings identifying all
> areas to be disturbed by construction for each major waterbody
> crossing (the scaled drawings are not required for any offshore
> portions of pipeline projects). This plan should be developed in
> consultation with the appropriate state and Federal agencies and
> should include extra work areas, spoil storage areas, sediment control
> structures, etc., as well as mitigation for navigational issues.
>
> The Environmental Inspector may adjust the final placement of the
> erosion and sediment control structures in the field to maximize
> effectiveness.

#### 10. Temporary Erosion and Sediment Control

> Install sediment barriers (as defined in section IV.F.2.a. of the
> Plan, **see Figures 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10**) immediately after initial
> disturbance of the waterbody or adjacent upland. Sediment barriers
> must be properly maintained throughout construction and reinstalled as
> necessary (such as after backfilling of the trench) until replaced by
> permanent erosion controls or restoration of adjacent upland areas is
> complete. Temporary erosion and sediment control measures are
> addressed in more detail in the Plan; however, the following specific
> measures must be implemented at stream crossings:
>
> a\. install sediment barriers across the entire construction
> right-of-way at all waterbody crossings, where necessary to prevent
> the flow of sediments into the waterbody. Removable sediment barriers
> (or driveable berms) must be installed across the travel lane. These
> removable sediment barriers can be removed during the construction
> day, but must be re-installed after construction has stopped for the
> day and/or when heavy precipitation is imminent;
>
> b\. where waterbodies are adjacent to the construction right-of-way,
> install sediment barriers along the edge of the construction
> right-of-way as necessary to contain spoil and sediment within the
> construction right-of-way; and
>
> c\. use trench plugs at all waterbody crossings, as necessary, to
> prevent diversion of water into upland portions of the pipeline trench
> and to keep any accumulated trench water out of the waterbody.

#### 11. Trench Dewatering

> Dewater the trench (either on or off the construction right-of-way) in
> a manner that does not cause erosion and does not result in heavily
> silt-laden water flowing into any waterbody. Remove the dewatering
> structures as soon as possible after the completion of dewatering
> activities.
>
> **See Figure 20 for details on Filter Bag dewatering structures.**

### C. RESTORATION

> **See Figures 21 and 22 for streambank restoration/stabilization
> measures involving erosion control fabric and rip rap.**
>
> 1\. Use clean gravel or native cobbles for the upper 1 foot of trench
> backfill in all waterbodies that contain coldwater fisheries.
>
> 2\. For open-cut crossings, stabilize waterbody banks and install
> temporary sediment barriers within 24 hours of completing instream
> construction activities. For dry-ditch crossings, complete streambed
> and bank stabilization before returning flow to the waterbody channel.
>
> 3\. Return all waterbody banks to preconstruction contours or to a
> stable angle of repose as approved by the Environmental Inspector.
>
> 4\. Application of riprap for bank stabilization must comply with COE,
> or its delegated agency, permit terms and conditions.
>
> 5\. Unless otherwise specified by state permit, limit the use of
> riprap to areas where flow conditions preclude effective vegetative
> stabilization techniques such as seeding and erosion control fabric.
>
> 6\. Revegetate disturbed riparian areas with conservation grasses and
> legumes or native plant species, preferably woody species.
>
> 7\. Install a permanent slope breaker across the construction
> right-of-way at the base of slopes greater than 5 percent that are
> less than 50 feet from the waterbody, or as needed to prevent sediment
> transport into the waterbody. In addition, install sediment barriers
> as outlined in the Plan.
>
> In some areas, with the approval of the Environmental Inspector, an
> earthen berm may be suitable as a sediment barrier adjacent to the
> waterbody.
>
> 8\. Sections V.C.3. through V.C.6. above also apply to those perennial
> or intermittent streams not flowing at the time of construction.

### D. POST-CONSTRUCTION MAINTENANCE

> 1\. Limit vegetation maintenance adjacent to waterbodies to allow a
> riparian strip at least 25 feet wide, as measured from the
> waterbody\'s mean high water mark, to permanently revegetate with
> native plant species across the entire construction right-of-way.
> However, to facilitate periodic pipeline corrosion/leak surveys, a
> corridor centered on the pipeline and up to 10 feet wide may be
> maintained in a herbaceous state. In addition, trees that are located
> within 15 feet of the pipeline that are greater than 15 feet in height
> may be cut and removed from the permanent right-of-way.
>
> 2\. Do not use herbicides or pesticides in or within 100 feet of a
> waterbody except as allowed by the appropriate land management or
> state agency.

## [VI. WETLAND CROSSINGS]{.underline}

### A. GENERAL

> 1\. The project sponsor shall conduct a wetland delineation using the
> current Federal methodology and file a wetland delineation report with
> the Secretary before construction. This report shall identify:
>
> a\. by milepost all wetlands that would be affected;
>
> b\. the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) classification for each
> wetland;
>
> c\. the crossing length of each wetland in feet; and
>
> d\. the area of permanent and temporary disturbance that would occur
> in each wetland by NWI classification type.
>
> The requirements outlined in this section do not apply to wetlands in
> actively cultivated or rotated cropland. Standard upland protective
> measures, including workspace and topsoiling requirements, apply to
> these agricultural wetlands.
>
> 2\. Route the pipeline to avoid wetland areas to the maximum extent
> possible. If a wetland cannot be avoided or crossed by following an
> existing right-of-way, route the new pipeline in a manner that
> minimizes disturbance to wetlands. Where looping an existing pipeline,
> overlap the existing pipeline right-of-way with the new construction
> right-of-way. In addition, locate the loop line no more than 25 feet
> away from the existing pipeline unless site-specific constraints would
> adversely affect the stability of the existing pipeline.
>
> 3\. Limit the width of the construction right-of-way to 75 feet or
> less. Prior written approval of the Director is required where
> topographic conditions or soil limitations require that the
> construction right-of-way width within the boundaries of a federally
> delineated wetland be expanded beyond 75 feet. Early in the planning
> process the project sponsor is encouraged to identify site-specific
> areas where existing soils lack adequate unconfined compressive
> strength that would result in excessively wide ditches and/or
> difficult to contain spoil piles.
>
> 4\. Wetland boundaries and buffers must be clearly marked in the field
> with signs and/or highly visible flagging until construction-related
> ground disturbing activities are complete.
>
> 5\. Implement the measures of sections V. [and]{.underline} VI. in the
> event a waterbody crossing is located within or adjacent to a wetland
> crossing. If all measures of sections V. and VI. cannot be met, the
> project sponsor must file with the Secretary a site-specific crossing
> plan for review and written approval by the Director before
> construction. This crossing plan shall address at a minimum:

a\. spoil control;

> b\. equipment bridges;
>
> c\. restoration of waterbody banks and wetland hydrology;
>
> d\. timing of the waterbody crossing;
>
> e\. method of crossing; and
>
> f\. size and location of all extra work areas.
>
> 6\. Do not locate aboveground facilities in any wetland, except where
> the location of such facilities outside of wetlands would prohibit
> compliance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations.

### B. INSTALLATION

#### 1. Extra Work Areas and Access Roads

> a\. Locate all extra work areas (such as staging areas and additional
> spoil storage areas) at least 50 feet away from wetland boundaries,
> except where the adjacent upland consists of actively cultivated or
> rotated cropland or other disturbed land.
>
> b\. The project sponsor shall file with the Secretary for review and
> written approval by the Director, a site-specific construction plan
> for each extra work area with a less than 50-foot setback from wetland
> boundaries (except where adjacent upland consists of actively
> cultivated or rotated cropland or other disturbed land) and a
> site-specific explanation of the conditions that will not permit a
> 50-foot setback.
>
> c\. Limit clearing of vegetation between extra work areas and the edge
> of the wetland to the certificated construction right-of-way.
>
> d\. The construction right-of-way may be used for access when the
> wetland soil is firm enough to avoid rutting or the construction
> right-of-way has been appropriately stabilized to avoid rutting (e.g.,
> with timber riprap, prefabricated equipment mats, or terra mats).
>
> In wetlands that cannot be appropriately stabilized, all construction
> equipment other than that needed to install the wetland crossing shall
> use access roads located in upland areas. Where access roads in upland
> areas do not provide reasonable access, limit all other construction
> equipment to one pass through the wetland using the construction
> right-of-way.
>
> e\. The only access roads, other than the construction right-of-way,
> that can be used in wetlands without Director approval, are those
> existing roads that can be used with no modification and no impact on
> the wetland.

#### 2. Crossing Procedures

> **Figures 23 and 24 show typical "conventional" and "push pull"
> wetland crossing procedures.**
>
> a\. Comply with COE, or its delegated agency, permit terms and
> conditions.
>
> b\. Assemble the pipeline in an upland area unless the wetland is dry
> enough to adequately support skids and pipe.
>
> c\. Use \"push-pull\" or \"float\" techniques to place the pipe in the
> trench where water and other site conditions allow. **(See Figure
> 24.)**
>
> d\. Minimize the length of time that topsoil is segregated and the
> trench is open.
>
> e\. Limit construction equipment operating in wetland areas to that
> needed to clear the construction right-of-way, dig the trench,
> fabricate and install the pipeline, backfill the trench, and restore
> the construction right-of-way.
>
> f\. Cut vegetation just aboveground level, leaving existing root
> systems in place, and remove it from the wetland for disposal.
>
> g\. Limit pulling of tree stumps and grading activities to directly
> over the trenchline. Do not grade or remove stumps or root systems
> from the rest of the construction right-of-way in wetlands unless the
> Chief Inspector and Environmental Inspector determine that
> safety-related construction constraints require grading or the removal
> of tree stumps from under the working side of the construction
> right-of-way.
>
> h\. Segregate the top 1 foot of topsoil from the area disturbed by
> trenching, except in areas where standing water is present or soils
> are saturated or frozen. Immediately after backfilling is complete,
> restore the segregated topsoil to its original location.
>
> i\. Do not use rock, soil imported from outside the wetland, tree
> stumps, or brush riprap to support equipment on the construction
> right-of-way.
>
> j\. If standing water or saturated soils are present, or if
> construction equipment causes ruts or mixing of the topsoil and
> subsoil in wetlands, use low-ground-weight construction equipment, or
> operate normal equipment on timber riprap, prefabricated equipment
> mats, or terra mats.
>
> k\. Do not cut trees outside of the approved construction work area to
> obtain timber for riprap or equipment mats.
>
> l\. Attempt to use no more than two layers of timber riprap to support
> equipment on the construction right-of-way.
>
> m\. Remove all project-related material used to support equipment on
> the construction right-of-way upon completion of construction.

#### 3. Temporary Sediment Control

> Install sediment barriers (as defined in section IV.F.2.a. of the
> Plan, **see Figures 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10**) immediately after initial
> disturbance of the wetland or adjacent upland. Sediment barriers must
> be properly maintained throughout construction and reinstalled as
> necessary (such as after backfilling of the trench). Except as noted
> below in section VI.B.3.c., maintain sediment barriers until replaced
> by permanent erosion controls or restoration of adjacent upland areas
> is complete. Temporary erosion and sediment control measures are
> addressed in more detail in the Plan.
>
> a\. Install sediment barriers across the entire construction
> right-of-way immediately upslope of the wetland boundary at all
> wetland crossings where necessary to prevent sediment flow into the
> wetland.
>
> b\. Where wetlands are adjacent to the construction right-of-way and
> the right-of-way slopes toward the wetland, install sediment barriers
> along the edge of the construction right-of-way as necessary to
> prevent sediment flow into the wetland.
>
> c\. Install sediment barriers along the edge of the construction
> right-of-way as necessary to contain spoil and sediment within the
> construction right-of-way through wetlands. Remove these sediment
> barriers during right-of-way cleanup.

#### 4. Trench Dewatering

> Dewater the trench (either on or off the construction right-of-way) in
> a manner that does not cause erosion and does not result in heavily
> silt-laden water flowing into any wetland. Remove the dewatering
> structures as soon as possible after the completion of dewatering
> activities.
>
> **See Figure 20 for details on Filter Bag dewatering structures.**

### C. RESTORATION

> 1\. Where the pipeline trench may drain a wetland, construct trench
> breakers and/or seal the trench bottom as necessary to maintain the
> original wetland hydrology. **See Figure 11 for trench breaker typical
> details.**
>
> 2\. For each wetland crossed, install a trench breaker at the base of
> slopes near the boundary between the wetland and adjacent upland
> areas. Install a permanent slope breaker across the construction
> right-of-way at the base of a slope(s) greater than 5 percent where
> the base of the slope is less than 50 feet from the wetland, or as
> needed to prevent sediment transport into the wetland. In addition,
> install sediment barriers as outlined in the Plan. In some areas, with
> the approval of the Environmental Inspector, an earthen berm may be
> suitable as a sediment barrier adjacent to the wetland.
>
> 3\. Do not use fertilizer, lime, or mulch unless required in writing
> by the appropriate land management or state agency.
>
> 4\. Consult with the appropriate land management or state agency to
> develop a project-specific wetland restoration plan. The restoration
> plan should include measures for re-establishing herbaceous and/or
> woody species, controlling the invasion and spread of undesirable
> exotic species (e.g., purple loosestrife and phragmites), and
> monitoring the success of the revegetation and weed control efforts.
> Provide this plan to the FERC staff upon request.
>
> 5\. Until a project-specific wetland restoration plan is developed
> and/or implemented, temporarily revegetate the construction
> right-of-way with annual ryegrass at a rate of 40 pounds/acre (unless
> standing water is present).
>
> 6\. Ensure that all disturbed areas successfully revegetate with
> wetland herbaceous and/or woody plant species.
>
> 7\. Remove temporary sediment barriers located at the boundary between
> wetland and adjacent upland areas after upland revegetation and
> stabilization of adjacent upland areas are judged to be successful as
> specified in section VII.A.5. of the Plan.

### D. POST-CONSTRUCTION MAINTENANCE

> 1\. Do not conduct vegetation maintenance over the full width of the
> permanent right-of-way in wetlands. However, to facilitate periodic
> pipeline corrosion/leak surveys, a corridor centered on the pipeline
> and up to 10 feet wide may be maintained in a herbaceous state. In
> addition, trees within 15 feet of the pipeline that are greater than
> 15 feet in height may be selectively cut and removed from the
> permanent right-of-way.
>
> 2\. Do not use herbicides or pesticides in or within 100 feet of a
> wetland, except as allowed by the appropriate land management agency
> or state agency.
>
> 3\. Monitor and record the success of wetland revegetation annually
> for the first 3 years after construction or until wetland revegetation
> is successful. At the end of 3 years after construction, file a report
> with the Secretary identifying the status of the wetland revegetation
> efforts. Include the percent cover achieved and problem areas (weed
> invasion issues, poor revegetation, etc.). Continue to file a report
> annually until wetland revegetation is successful.
>
> 4\. Wetland revegetation shall be considered successful if the cover
> of herbaceous and/or woody species is at least 80 percent of the type,
> density, and distribution of the vegetation in adjacent wetland areas
> that were not disturbed by construction. If revegetation is not
> successful at the end of 3 years, develop and implement (in
> consultation with a professional wetland ecologist) a remedial
> revegetation plan to actively revegetate the wetland. Continue
> revegetation efforts until wetland revegetation is successful.

## [VII. HYDROSTATIC TESTING]{.underline}

### A. NOTIFICATION PROCEDURES AND PERMITS

> 1\. Apply for state-issued water withdrawal permits, as required.
>
> 2\. Apply for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
> or state-issued discharge permits, as required.
>
> 3\. Notify appropriate state agencies of intent to use specific
> sources at least 48 hours before testing activities unless they waive
> this requirement in writing.

### B. GENERAL

> 1\. Perform 100 percent radiographic inspection of all pipeline
> section welds or hydrotest the pipeline sections, before installation
> under waterbodies or wetlands.
>
> 2\. If pumps used for hydrostatic testing are within 100 feet of any
> waterbody or wetland, address the operation and refueling of these
> pumps in the project's Spill Prevention and Response Procedures.
>
> 3\. The project sponsor shall file with the Secretary before
> construction a list identifying the location of all waterbodies
> proposed for use as a hydrostatic test water source or discharge
> location.

### C. INTAKE SOURCE AND RATE

> 1\. Screen the intake hose to prevent entrainment of fish.
>
> 2\. Do not use state-designated exceptional value waters, waterbodies
> which provide habitat for federally listed threatened or endangered
> species, or waterbodies designated as public water supplies, unless
> appropriate Federal, state, and/or local permitting agencies grant
> written permission.
>
> 3\. Maintain adequate flow rates to protect aquatic life, provide for
> all waterbody uses, and provide for downstream withdrawals of water by
> existing users.
>
> 4\. Locate hydrostatic test manifolds outside wetlands and riparian
> areas to the maximum extent practicable.

### D. DISCHARGE LOCATION, METHOD, AND RATE

> 1\. Regulate discharge rate, use energy dissipation device(s), and
> install sediment barriers, as necessary, to prevent erosion, streambed
> scour, suspension of sediments, or excessive streamflow **(see Figure
> 25)**.
>
> 2\. Do not discharge into state-designated exceptional value waters,
> waterbodies which provide habitat for federally listed threatened or
> endangered species, or waterbodies designated as public water
> supplies, unless appropriate Federal, state, and local permitting
> agencies grant written permission.

**[ATTACHMENT A]{.underline}**

**SEED MIXES**

***(as recommended in:***

***Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection,
Office of Water Management, Erosion and Sediment Pollution Control
Program Manual, April 15, 2000)***

**SEED MIXES**

The following recommended seed mixes for utility rights-of-way were
obtained from "Erosion Control & Conservation Plantings on Noncropland,"
(1997, Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences).

**[Temporary Seed Mix]{.underline}** **(for temporary stabilization of
areas where additional soil disturbance is anticipated):**

  ---------------------------------- ------------------------------------
  **Species**                        **Rate**

  Annual ryegrass                    40 pounds per acre

  Hay or Straw Mulch                 3 tons per acre
  ---------------------------------- ------------------------------------

# 

# [Permanent Seed Mixes:]{.underline}

Well Drained Areas:

+----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| **Species**                      | **Rate (pounds per acre, based on |
|                                  | pure live seed)**                 |
+----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Annual ryegrass                  | 10                                |
|                                  |                                   |
| Crownvetch                       | 10                                |
|                                  |                                   |
| Tall fescue or perennial         | 20                                |
| ryegrass                         |                                   |
+----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| **OR**                           |                                   |
+----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Annual ryegrass                  | 10                                |
|                                  |                                   |
| Flatpea                          | 20                                |
|                                  |                                   |
| Tall fescue or perennial         | 20                                |
| ryegrass                         |                                   |
+----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+

Variable Drainage Areas (i.e., where well drained soils and poorly
drained soils are intermingled):

+----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| **Species**                      | **Rate (pounds per acre, based on |
|                                  | pure live seed)**                 |
+----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Annual ryegrass                  | 10                                |
|                                  |                                   |
| Birdsfoot trefoil                | 6                                 |
|                                  |                                   |
| Tall fescue                      | 30                                |
+----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| **OR**                           |                                   |
+----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Annual ryegrass                  | 10                                |
|                                  |                                   |
| Birdsfoot trefoil                | 6                                 |
|                                  |                                   |
| Crownvetch                       | 10                                |
|                                  |                                   |
| Tall fescue                      | 20                                |
+----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+

Well Drained Areas for Grazing/Hay:

+----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| **Species**                      | **Rate (pounds per acre, based on |
|                                  | pure live seed)**                 |
+----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Annual ryegrass                  | 10                                |
|                                  |                                   |
| **PLUS:**                        | 60 (tall fescue) or 25 (fine      |
|                                  | fescue)                           |
| a\) Tall fescue or fine fescue   |                                   |
|                                  | 25                                |
| **OR**                           |                                   |
|                                  | 3                                 |
| b\) Kentucky bluegrass and       |                                   |
|                                  | 15                                |
| Redtop (3 lbs/ac)                |                                   |
|                                  |                                   |
| **OR**                           |                                   |
|                                  |                                   |
| c\) Perennial ryegrass           |                                   |
+----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+

Wetlands:

+----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| # Species                        | **Rate**                          |
+----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Annual ryegrass                  | 40 pounds per acre                |
+----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+

Recommended seeding dates: Before August 15 for legumes (require 10-12
weeks to become hardy). For better success after this time, select
legume seedlots with high content (30% to 35%) of hard seed.

> Liming and Fertilization: Lime and fertilize in accordance with soil
> test recommendations. If soil test results are not available, apply at
> least 6 tons of agricultural grade limestone and 100-200-200 (100 lbs
> N, 200 lb P~2~0~5~, and 200 lbs K~2~0) per acre. Do not apply lime or
> fertilizer in wetlands or waterbodies.