SECTION 7. wildlife and fisheries [7-1](#wildlife-and-fisheries)

7.A Wildlife [7-1](#wildlife)

7.A.1 Cover Type and Wildlife Habitat
[7-1](#cover-type-and-wildlife-habitat)

7.A.1.a Upland Forest [7-3](#upland-forest)

7.A.1.b Early Successional/Clear-cut [7-5](#early-successionalclear-cut)

7.A.1.c Wetlands [7-6](#wetlands)

7.A.1.d Develolped Areas - Residential, Commercial, and Industrial
[7-10](#develolped-areas---residential-commercial-and-industrial)

7.A.2 Significant or Sensitive Wildlife Habitats
[7-11](#significant-or-sensitive-wildlife-habitats)

7.A.2.a Federal Law [7-12](#federal-law)

7.A.2.b State Law [7-13](#state-law)

7.A.2.c Significant Wildlife or Rare Species Habitats Crossed by the
Proposed Route
[7-16](#significant-wildlife-or-rare-species-habitats-crossed-by-the-proposed-route)

7.A.3 Impacts and Effects on Habitats and Associated Wildlife
[7-20](#impacts-and-effects-on-habitats-and-associated-wildlife)

7.A.3.a Permanent Vegetation and Habitat Impacts
[7-20](#permanent-vegetation-and-habitat-impacts)

7.A.3.b Temporary Effects [7-26](#temporary-effects)

7.A.4 Impacts and Effects on Significant or Sensitive Wildlife Habitats
[7-27](#impacts-and-effects-on-significant-or-sensitive-wildlife-habitats)

7.A.4.a Bald Eagle Nest Sites [7-27](#bald-eagle-nest-sites)

7.A.4.b Sedge Wren Habitat [7-28](#sedge-wren-habitat-1)

7.A.4.c Deer Wintering Areas [7-28](#deer-wintering-areas-1)

7.A.4.d Waterfowl and Wading Bird Habitats
[7-28](#waterfowl-and-wading-bird-habitats-1)

7.A.4.e Rare Mussel Habitat - Brook Floater
[7-29](#rare-mussel-habitat---brook-floater-1)

7.B Fisheries [7-29](#fisheries)

7.B.1 Waterbody Crossings and Associated Fisheries
[7-29](#waterbody-crossings-and-associated-fisheries)

7.B.1.a Atlantic salmon [7-32](#atlantic-salmon)

7.B.1.b Shortnose Sturgeon [7-35](#shortnose-sturgeon)

7.B.1.c Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act
[7-35](#fish-and-wildlife-coordination-act)

7.B.2 Impacts and Effects on Waterbodies and Associated Fisheries
[7-36](#impacts-and-effects-on-waterbodies-and-associated-fisheries)

7.B.2.a ASC Waters of Special Concern
[7-38](#asc-waters-of-special-concern)

7.B.2.b Other Potential Salmon Streams
[7-39](#other-potential-salmon-streams)

7.B.2.c American Eel, Alewife and Blueback Herring
[7-39](#american-eel-alewife-and-blueback-herring)

7.C References [7-40](#references)

**T**ABLES

7-1. Wildlife Habitat Summary [7-3](#__RefHeading___Toc102437508)

7-2. Significant Wildlife or Rare Species Habitats Along Route
[7-16](#__RefHeading___Toc102437509)

7-3. List of Potential Fish Species in the Project Area
[7-31](#__RefHeading___Toc102437510)

**APPENDICES**

APPENDIX 7-1: OBSERVED AND POTENTIAL WILDLIFE SPECIES ASSOCIATED WITH
THE PROJECT

APPENDIX 7-2: AGENCY CORRESPONDENCE

APPENDIX 7-3: SIGNIFICANT WILDLIFE HABITAT MAPS FOR THE PROJECT AREA

APPENDIX 7-4: WATERBODIES CROSSED BY THE NRI PROJECT

#  wildlife and fisheries

## Wildlife

### Cover Type and Wildlife Habitat

The composition, structure, and distribution of plant communities in an
area constitute a large part of the cover and food components of
wildlife habitat. As a result, areas with similar vegetative
characteristics tend to have similar assemblages of wildlife species.
Some wildlife species have very specific habitat requirements and are
found in only a few habitats while other species have broader habitat
requirements and are ubiquitous. This section briefly describes the
major wildlife habitat types in the vicinity of Bangor Hydro-Electric
Company's (BHE) proposed Northeast Reliability Interconnect (NRI)
rights-of-way (ROW) and lists representative wildlife species that may
occur in these habitats. Additional, more site-specific information on
species occurring in these habitats is identified in Sections 7.A.2 and
7.A.3 and a more comprehensive list of wildlife species that may be
found in each habitat is provided in Appendix 7-1.

[]{.mark}

Approximately 84 percent (70 miles) of the proposed 84.25 mile ROW is
adjacent to existing, cleared electric transmission line ROW, gas
pipeline ROW, and logging roads. There are three areas where the
proposed route diverges from existing ROWs. The first and longest is
approximately 13.5 miles in length, beginning just after the Blackman
Stream crossing in Bradley and traveling cross country to a point where
the route joins the Stud Mill Road and rejoins the Maritimes & Northeast
Pipeline, LLC (Maritimes) ROW east of Sunkhaze Stream in Myra (T32 MD)
(herein after the "Pickerel Pond Reroute"). This reroute is proposed to
avoid potential visual impact to a section of the Sunkhaze Meadows
National Wildlife Refuge and the Maine Youth Conservation Wildlife
Management Area at Pickerel Pond and homeowner impacts along the
Maritimes pipeline and Maine Electric Power Company (MEPCO) ROWs.

The second section of the route that deviates from existing ROW is
located entirely within T32 MD near an area known as Myra, and is known
as the "Myra Camp Reroute." This segment is approximately one mile long,
and is proposed to avoid several privately-owned camps near Crocker Turn
Road.

[]{.mark}

The last segment of the route that does not parallel existing ROW is
located at the end of the line in Baileyville. It is approximately 0.8
mile long, beginning east of the Maritimes Baileyville Compressor
Station and Sprague Meadow Brook, and travels through recently harvested
woodlands to the St. Croix River crossing. This section of virgin ROW is
needed to make the NRI interconnection with the Canadian project.

[]{.mark}

Cover types along the proposed NRI ROW were interpreted from aerial
photographs (scale: 1 inch = 200 feet) taken in the Fall of 2003 for the
project Plan and Profile drawings (provided separately as Attachment 1
to this application). Determination of the various cover types was
supplemented by field surveys conducted primarily in 2004 along the
entire proposed route. Features such as major waterbodies and roads were
located through review of the aerial photography and field notes.

The cover types along the proposed ROW can be classified into four broad
categories: upland forest (coniferous and hardwood), early
successional/clear-cut, wetland (forested, scrub-shrub, and emergent),
and developed (residential, commercial and industrial). The predominant
cover type is then used to define and describe the associated wildlife
habitat. Natural cover types, such as upland forests and wetlands, are
classified based on MNAP's *Natural Landscapes of Maine: A
Classification of Ecosystems and Natural Communities* (MNAP 2004). The
majority of the route can be characterized as forested and early
successional/clear-cut habitats.

Descriptions of each of the four major cover/wildlife habitat types
identified along the proposed route are provided in the following
sections. Table 7-1, below, provides a summary of existing land use and
the major cover/habitat types present along the area crossed by the ROW.
Additional information related to potential wildlife habitat impacts is
also presented. Site-specific information on Significant Wildlife
Habitats and other sensitive habitat identified by the Maine Department
of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW) is provided in Section 7.A.2.

+----------------+-----------------+----------------+-----------------+
| []{            |                 |                |                 |
| #__RefHeading_ |                 |                |                 |
| __Toc102437508 |                 |                |                 |
| .anchor}TABLE  |                 |                |                 |
| 7-1. Wildlife  |                 |                |                 |
| Habitat        |                 |                |                 |
| Summary        |                 |                |                 |
+----------------+-----------------+----------------+-----------------+
| **Existing     | **Cover/Habitat | **Wetland      | **Conversion of |
| Land Use\      | Type\           | Acreage within | Forested        |
| (acres)**      | (acres)**       | Maintained ROW | Habitat to      |
|                |                 | (acres)**      | Scrub/Shrub     |
|                |                 |                | Habitat         |
|                |                 |                | (acres)**       |
+----------------+-----------------+----------------+-----------------+
| Utility        | Upland Forest:  | Forested:      | Wetland: 175.83 |
| Corridor:      | 686.46          | 175.86         |                 |
| 41.63          |                 |                | Upland: 686.46  |
|                | Early Success:  | Scrub/Shrub:   |                 |
| Comm. Forest:  | 425.15          | 117.03         |                 |
| 1433.12        |                 |                |                 |
|                | Wetland: 338.31 | Emergent:      |                 |
| Urban^1^: 3.16 |                 | 43.56          |                 |
|                | Developed:      |                |                 |
| Cropla         | 68.26           | Unconsolidated |                 |
| nd/Pasture^1^: |                 |                |                 |
| 23.65          |                 | Bottom: 1.86   |                 |
|                |                 |                |                 |
| Shrub/brush    |                 |                |                 |
|                |                 |                |                 |
| Rang           |                 |                |                 |
| eland^1^:16.62 |                 |                |                 |
+----------------+-----------------+----------------+-----------------+
| Notes:         |                 |                |                 |
|                |                 |                |                 |
| ^1^ United     |                 |                |                 |
| States         |                 |                |                 |
| Geological     |                 |                |                 |
| Survey. 1990.  |                 |                |                 |
| Land Use and   |                 |                |                 |
| Land Cover Map |                 |                |                 |
| Data.          |                 |                |                 |
+----------------+-----------------+----------------+-----------------+

#### Upland Forest

The upland forest cover type is assumed to occur on lands that have a
tree-crown areal density of at least 10 percent or more and are stocked
with trees capable of producing timber or wood products (Anderson et al.
1976). Harvested areas, other than clear-cuts, from which trees have
recently been removed to less than 10 percent but have not been
developed for other purposes are also included. Approximately 45.2
percent of the project route consists of upland forest. The majority of
upland forests adjacent to the proposed route are currently owned by
corporations such as Kennebec West Forest, LLC (Kennebec West) (lands
formerly owned by International Paper (\[IP\]), Gardner Land Company,
H.C. Haynes, Wagner Forest Management (Wagner), and others. These
forests are currently managed for production of commercial forest
products.

The upland forest areas found along the route consist of the
spruce-fir/northern hardwood forest ecosystem (MNAP 2004). In this
ecosystem, conifer-dominated and hardwood-dominated forests intergrade
into one another. The conifer forest communities are typically found in
the lowlands and northern hardwoods communities are found on
mid-elevation hillsides or ridges.

Hardwood dominated forest is fairly common along the proposed route.
This cover type requires relatively good moisture conditions and richer
soil conditions than the spruce-fir community and is typically found on
the ridges and slopes along the route. Representative areas of this
hardwood cover type exist on ridges and knolls east of The Horseback in
Myra and are located sporadically along the route from Blackman Stream
to Baileyville. These areas are dominated by American beech (*Fagus
grandifolia*), sugar maple (*Acer saccharium*), red maple (*A.rubrum*),
and yellow birch (*Betula alleghaniensis*). Balsam fir (*Abies
balsamea*), eastern hemlock *(Tsuga canadensis*), and, to a lesser
extent, northern red oak (*Quercus rubra*) are also common within this
community. Although the canopy tends to be relatively dense, common
understory shrubs include sugar maple, striped maple (*Acer.
pensylvanicum*), hobblebush (*Viburnum alnifolium*), and balsam fir. The
herbaceous layer, though typically sparse, consists of spinulose
woodfern (*Dryopteris spinulosa*), bunchberry (*Cornus canadensis*),
partridgeberry (*Mitchella repens*), and shining clubmoss (*Lycopodium
lucidulum*).

Spruce-fir forests along the proposed route are generally located in
lower elevation sites with relatively thin, poorly drained and acidic
soil conditions. Balsam fir, red spruce (*Picea rubens*), and white
spruce (*P. glauca*) are the dominant overstory trees. Common associates
include white pine (*Pinus strobus*), eastern hemlock and red maple. The
shrub layer predominantly consists of balsam fir. The sparse herbaceous
layer consists of goldthread (*Coptis groenlandica*), wild sarsaparilla
(*Aralia nudicaulis*), and Canada mayflower (*Maianthemum canadense*).
Representative spruce-fir forests are located in the lower elevations
throughout the Pickerel Pond Reroute and scattered intermittently along
the entire route.

Because of the structural diversity found in the spruce-fir-northern
hardwoods ecosystem, these areas tend to have a high diversity of
wildlife species both in the understory and canopy. The herpetile (i.e.,
amphibians and reptiles) diversity in this habitat (especially the
northern hardwood type) is greater than any other habitat type. Commonly
found amphibian species include the redback salamander (*Plethodon
cinereus*), spotted salamander (*Ambystoma maculatum*), wood frog (*Rana
sylvatica*), gray treefrog (*Hyla versicolor*), and American toad (*Bufo
americanus*). Reptile species that can occur include the northern
redbelly snake (*Storeria occipitomaculata*) and eastern garter snake
(*Thamnophis sirtalis*).

Bird species represented in the forested habitat include ground or shrub
nesting species such as the ruffed grouse (*Bonasa umbellus*), winter
wren (*Troglodytes troglodytes*), Swainson's thrush (*Catharus
ustulatus*), ovenbird (*Seiurus aurocapillus*), and Canada warbler
(*Wilsonia canadensis*). Cavity nesting birds typically include the
black-capped chickadee (*Parus atricapillus*), white-breasted nuthatch
(*Sitta carolinensis*), and hairy woodpecker *(Picoides villosus*).
Canopy/mid-story nesting birds include the golden-crowned kinglet
(*Regulus satrapa*), blue-headed vireo (*Vireo solitarius*), American
redstart (*Setophaga ruticilla*), and the black-throated green warbler
(*Dendroica virens*). Raptor species encountered include the barred owl
(*Strix varia*), broad-winged hawk (*Buteo platypterus*), and
sharp-shinned hawk (*Accipiter striatus*). Avian species more frequently
encountered in the spruce-fir forests include the spruce grouse
(*Dendragapus canadensis*), raven (*Corvus corax*), red-breasted
nuthatch (*Sitta canadensis*), bay-breasted warbler (*Dendroica
castanea*), red crossbill (*Loxia curvirostra*), and evening grosbeak
(*Coccothraustes vespertinus*).

The white-tailed deer (*Odocoileus virginianus*), moose (*Alces alces*),
black bear (*Ursus americanus*), and fisher (*Martes pennanti*) are
common mammal species along the route. Other representative mammal
species include southern red-backed vole (*Clethrionomys gapperi*), deer
mouse (*Peromyscus maniculatus*), red squirrel (*Tamiasciurus*
*hudsonicus*), porcupine (*Erethizon dorsatum*), and snowshoe hare
(*Lepus americanus*).

#### Early Successional/Clear-cut

This cover type classification includes upland areas that are in
transition from cleared areas back to forest. These areas typically were
mature forests before being cut. Also included are cover types within
maintained utility corridors (Anderson et al. 1976). Approximately 28.0
percent of the proposed project route consists of early
successional/clear-cut cover type. Typically, the vegetational
composition and structure associated with this classification gradually
changes over time due to natural succession. In the case of maintained
ROW, the early successional cover type is permanently maintained due to
periodic cutting of trees and saplings within the transmission ROW.
Depending on the maintenance schedule, the ROW is kept in a stage
ranging from herbaceous field to shrub dominated cover. The dominant
shrubs within this cover type include red raspberry (*Rubus idaeus*),
sweet fern (*Comptonia peregrina*), and sheep laurel (*Kalmia
angustifolia*). Bracken fern (*Pteridium aquilinum*), wintergreen
(*Gaultheria procumbens*), hay-scented fern (*Dennstaedtia
punctilobula*), gray goldenrod (*Solidago nemoralis*), and bunchberry
are the common herbs. This is the cover type that would be maintained
along the NRI route.

Due to the dense herbaceous and shrub vegetation that is typically
located in early successional areas, ground nesting and shrub nesting
species of birds are relatively common. These bird species include the
chestnut-sided warbler (*D. pensylvanica*), Nashville warbler
(*Vermivora ruficapilla*), common yellowthroat (*Geothlypis trichas*),
song sparrow (*Melospiza melodia*), indigo bunting (*Passerina cyanea*),
and the white-throated sparrow (*Zonotrichia albicollis*). The
red-tailed hawk (*Buteo jamaicensis*) and American kestrel (*Falco
sparverius*) are also commonly observed in these habitats.

Herpetiles, though less frequently encountered in these exposed areas,
consist of redback salamander, American toad, and eastern garter snake.
The lower moisture content and the comparatively high ground
temperatures limit many of the amphibian species such as the spotted
salamander and wood frog.

Mammals frequently encountered in these areas include the
edge-associated species such as the southern red-backed vole, meadow
vole (*Microtus pennsylvanicus*), short-tailed shrew (*Blarina
brevicauda*), ermine (*Mustela erminea*), and coyote (*Canis latrans*).
White-tailed deer and moose also frequent these habitats for foraging
and bedding opportunities.

#### Wetlands

Many palustrine wetlands exist within the proposed route. The vast
majority of these include the forested, scrub-shrub, and emergent
wetland cover types. As shown in Table 7-1, a very small fraction of the
wetlands identified along the proposed ROW fall within a fourth wetland
type: palustrine unconsolidated bottom wetlands. These wetlands consist
primarily of open water with less than 30 percent vegetative cover.
Appendix 11-6 in Section 11, Soils lists all of the wetlands traversed
by the proposed route. Provided below is a discussion of each of the
three major wetland types that have been mapped along the route.

##### Forested Wetlands

Forested wetlands are characterized by woody vegetation that is at least
six meters tall (Cowardin et al. 1979). Forested wetlands are the most
common wetland type found along the proposed route, encompassing
approximately 52 percent of the total wetland acreage crossed. Forested
wetlands make up approximately 11.6 percent of the entire proposed ROW.
Most of these are classified as broad-leaved deciduous and/or
needle-leaved evergreen forested wetlands. Examples of this wetland type
occur at Birch Stream in T 32 MD, Main Stream in Great Pond, Fifth
Machias Lake in T 35 MD, and along many small, unnamed perennial
streams. Common tree species include red maple, white pine, yellow
birch, eastern hemlock, American elm (*Ulmus americana*), tamarack
(*Larix laricina*), northern white cedar (*Thuja occidentalis)*, and
black spruce (*Picea mariana*). Common shrub species include highbush
blueberry (*Vaccinium corymbosum*), northern arrowwood (*Viburnum
recognitum*), common winterberry (*Ilex verticillata*), and silky
dogwood (*Cornus amomum*). Herbaceous species common to forested
wetlands include sensitive fern (*Onoclea sensibilis*), cinnamon fern
(*Osmunda cinnamomea*), skunk cabbage (*Symplocarpus foetidus*), spotted
jewelweed (*Impatiens capensis*), and sphagnum mosses (*Sphagnum* spp).

A number of mammal species utilize forested wetland habitat. Examples
include moose, white-tailed deer, snowshoe hare, mink (*Mustela vison*),
black bear, raccoon (*Procyon lotor*), bobcat (*Felis rufus*), beaver
(*Castor canadensis*), and woodland jumping mouse (*Napaeozapus
insignis*). In addition, herpetiles such as the wood frog, spotted
salamander, blue-spotted salamander (*Ambystoma laterale)*, northern
spring peeper (*Pseudacris crucifer*), American toad, and eastern garter
snake use forested wetland habitat for breeding, cover, and/or foraging.
Bird species known to utilize forested wetland habitat include wood duck
(*Aix sponsa*), pileated woodpecker (*Dryocopus pileatus*), northern
waterthrush (*Seiurus noveboracensis*), northern parula warbler (*Parula
americana*), and Canada warbler.

[]{.mark}

##### Scrub-Shrub Wetlands

Scrub-shrub wetlands are characterized by woody vegetation less than 6
meters tall (Cowardin et al. 1979). These areas are typically dominated
by shrubs and young trees, but may also include older trees that are
stunted due to environmental conditions. Scrub-shrub wetlands within the
proposed project corridor occur as three general types; scrub-shrub
wetlands associated with small streams, scrub-shrub wetlands associated
with large streams, and peatland bogs. Approximately 35 percent of the
total wetland acreage within the proposed project corridor consists of
the scrub-shrub wetland cover type. Approximately 7.7 percent of the
entire route is scrub-shrub wetland.

Many of the scrub-shrub wetlands associated with small streams have
historically been altered by beaver, and many are currently occupied by
beaver (as documented through field investigations). Dams constructed by
beavers raise water levels that can inundate roots and subsequently kill
many of the shrubs. Many of these active beaver dams are eventually
abandoned, resulting in deterioration of the dams and subsequent
draining of the impoundments. Dewatered areas are rapidly colonized by
grasses, sedges, herbs, and shrubs. This type of scrub-shrub wetland is
common within the proposed corridor, especially along Stud Mill Road
where culverts facilitate the creation of dams by beaver. Examples of
this wetland type occur at Little Birch Stream in Bradley, Wiley Brook
in T 32 MD, Hinckley Brook in Great Pond, an unnamed tributary to Lower
Sabao Lake, and Scott Brook in No. 21 Township.

A second type of scrub-shrub wetland occurs along the larger streams
traversed by the proposed project corridor. Rather than being influenced
by beaver activity, these areas are maintained by annual springtime
inundations and/or groundwater discharge. Examples of this type of
wetland occur at Great Works Stream in Bradley, Sunkhaze Stream in T 32
MD, Narraguagus River in T 34 MD, Machias River in T 37 MD BPP, Clifford
Stream in T 27 EDD BPP, and Huntley Brook in No. 21 Township.

The third type of scrub-shrub wetland that occurs within the proposed
project corridor is the peatland bog. The substrate is composed of
sphagnum moss and species diversity of the plant community is limited by
high acidity. As a result, the shrub layer is typically composed of
acid-tolerant shrubs and trees. Peatland bogs within or near the
proposed project corridor occur at Jimmie's Pond eskers in T 34 MD,
Haycock Pond in T 34 MD, a raised heath located along the Narraguagus
River in T 34 MD, a raised heath in Baileyville, and the oxbow and
Sawtelle Heath in Baileyville. Other significant peatlands occur
throughout the general project area, including Sunkhaze Meadows, along
the Horseback in T 32 MD (along Birch Stream on the west side, and
Dollar Pond on the east), and near the west end of Great Pond.

Within the proposed project area, shrub and tree species common to
scrub-shrub wetlands associated with small and large streams include
common elderberry (*Sambucus canadensis*), northern wild raisin
(*Viburnum cassinoides*), northern arrowwood, red osier dogwood (*Cornus
stolonifera*), common winterberry, speckled alder (*Alnus incana*),
broad-leaved meadowsweet (*Spiraea latifolia*), willows (*Salix* spp),
highbush blueberry, and red maple. Herbaceous species include sensitive
fern, cinnamon fern, skunk cabbage, spotted jewelweed, and sedges
(*Carex* spp). The peatland bogs within the proposed project area are
dominated by plants adapted to the cold environment and saturated,
acidic, and nutrient poor substrates. These plant species include black
spruce, tamarack, northern white cedar, cranberry (*Vaccinium
macrocarpon*), leatherleaf (*Chamaedaphne calyculata*), Labrador tea
(*Ledum groenlandicum*), sphagnum mosses, round-leaved sundew (*Drosera
rotundifolia*), and pitcher plant (*Sarracenia purpurea*).

Scrub-shrub wetlands are structurally similar to early successional
habitats. However, they generally have a greater diversity and abundance
of wildlife species due to the seasonal presence of water. Scrub-shrub
wetlands, especially those with inundated depressions, provide breeding
habitat and cover for herpetiles including wood frog, American toad,
gray treefrog, spring peeper, and eastern garter snake. Bird species
known to inhabit these areas include woodcock (*Scolopax minor*), alder
flycatcher (*Empidonax alnorum*), olive-sided flycatcher (*Contopus
virens*), yellow warbler (*Dendroica petchia*), common yellowthroat,
song sparrow, and red-winged blackbird (*Agelaius phoenicus*).

Small mammals are generally abundant in scrub-shrub wetlands due to the
thick understory and ground cover. Mammal species that are common to
this wetland type include beaver, muskrat (*Ondatra zibethicus*), mink,
masked shrew (*Sorex cinereus*), water shrew (*Sorex palustris*),
snowshoe hare, meadow vole, and southern red-backed vole. Other mammals
that utilize that habitat type include moose, white-tailed deer, and
raccoon. Insectivorous species such as masked shrew and water shrew are
often abundant in bogs.

##### Emergent Wetlands

Emergent wetlands are characterized by erect, rooted, herbaceous
hydrophytes, excluding mosses and lichens (Cowardin et al. 1979).
Emergent wetlands include areas commonly referred to as marshes and wet
meadows. The proposed project route crosses very few areas that could be
classified solely as emergent wetlands because they are often associated
with scrub-shrub wetlands. Approximately 13 percent of the total wetland
acreage within the proposed transmission line corridor consists of the
emergent wetland cover type. Approximately 2.9 percent of the total
acreage within the proposed ROW consists of emergent wetlands. One of
the largest emergent wetlands crossed occurs at Felts Brook in Brewer,
which is already crossed by the existing MEPCO 345 kilovolt (kV) line.

Beaver activity often results in the development of extensive emergent
wetlands that form in flooded areas. Muskrat are also common in shallow
and deepwater marshes and feed on the abundant emergent vegetation.
Other mammals that utilize emergent wetland habitat include little brown
myotis (*Myotis lucifugus*), raccoon, mink, and white-tailed deer.
Herpetiles common to emergent wetlands include northern spring peeper,
pickerel frog (*Rana palustris*), green frog (*R. clamitans*), eastern
garter snake, and painted turtle (*Chrysemys picta*). Bird species that
are frequently observed in emergent wetlands include great blue heron
(*Ardea herodias*), American black duck (*Anas rubripes*), red-winged
blackbird, tree swallow (*Tachycineta bicolor*), yellow warbler, and
swamp sparrow (*Melospiza georgiana*).

#### Develolped Areas - Residential, Commercial, and Industrial

Much of the land located along the proposed route is undeveloped,
particularly the area east of the existing MEPCO 345 kV line. The cities
of Bangor and Brewer have the largest concentration of developed area,
which is made up of residential, commercial, and industrial facilities.
Less densely developed areas occur in communities north of Bangor along
the Penobscot River and I-95 corridor. Industrial development is
primarily forest products businesses. Some commercial development is
located within the small towns located adjacent to the proposed route
and is generally associated with services for local communities, the
timber industry, and recreational activities.

Residential areas along the proposed route are primarily restricted to
areas near road crossings from Orrington north along the existing MEPCO
transmission line up to Blackman Stream. Because vegetation composition
and structural diversity is generally reduced in these areas, only those
species that are habitat-generalists or adapted to this type of habitat
tend to be present. Herpetile species that may be found in these areas
can include the eastern garter snake and American toad. The house
sparrow (*Passer domesticus*), mourning dove (*Zenaida macroura*),
American robin (*Turdus migratorius*), song sparrow, and black-capped
chickadee (*Poecile atricapilla*) are frequently observed avian species.
Mammal species found in this community type are typically
habitat-generalists, and include the white-tailed deer, striped skunk
(*Mephitis mephitis*), ground hog (*Marmota monax*), and coyote.

### Significant or Sensitive Wildlife Habitats

Significant or sensitive wildlife habitat is protected by both state and
federal law. BHE consulted with the MDIFW, the U. S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (USFWS) and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA
Fisheries) to identify significant or sensitive wildlife habitats in or
near the proposed project route. MDIFW supplied BHE with Geographic
Information System (GIS) data within one-mile of the proposed route.
This data included Biological Conservation Database (BCD) point, buffer,
and polygon data; Deer Wintering Areas (DWAs), Waterfowl and Wading Bird
Habitat (WWH) polygons, and Eagle Nesting Sites with ¼-mile buffers.
Discussion of the federal and state law and agency consultations follow.
Copies of all correspondence with USFWS, NOAA Fisheries, the Atlantic
Salmon Commission (ASC), and MDIFW are provided in Appendix 7-2. The
Significant Wildlife Habitat Maps created from the MDIFW GIS data are
included as Appendix 7-3.

#### Federal Law 

##### The Endangered Species Act {#the-endangered-species-act .Style-Heading-5-+-Left:--0\"}

The Endangered Species Act, 16 U.S.C. § 1531 et seq. (ESA), is the major
federal law that is relevant to the proposed project. The ESA's primary
aim is the protection of wildlife habitat. The USFWS and NOAA Fisheries
are the federal agencies that are responsible for administering the ESA.
Typically, the USFWS is the lead agency in issues dealing with wildlife
species and habitat, while NOAA Fisheries often takes the lead with
marine fish species and habitat.

Consultation with the USFWS identified three species listed or
identified as a species of concern under the federal ESA that are found
in vicinity of the proposed route: the bald eagle (*Haliaeetus
leucocephalus*), Atlantic salmon (*Salmo salar*), and brook floater
mussel (*Alasmidonta varicose*). NOAA Fisheries also identified the
Atlantic salmon and shortnose sturgeon (*Acipenser brevirostrum*).

The bald eagle is federally-listed as threatened. In addition to
protections afforded by the ESA, bald eagles and their nests are also
protected by the Bald Eagle Protection Act, 16 U.S.C. §§ 668-668d. The
USFWS states that the proposed route does not impact any bald eagle nest
sites (see USFWS letter dated December 29, 2004 in Appendix 7-2).
However, BHE and the USFWS recognize that there is breeding and foraging
habitat for the bald eagles in the vicinity of the proposed route. A
discussion of the presence of bald eagles and the brook floater and
associated habitat protection in Maine is provided in subsections
7.A.2.b, 7.A.2.c, 7.A.4.a and 7.A.4.e. Atlantic salmon and shortnose
sturgeon are discussed in Section 7.B Fisheries.

The USFWS also identified the potential presence of one state-listed
species, the sedge wren, near Great Works Stream in Bradley. Information
regarding the sedge wren is included in subsections 7.A.2.b and 7.A.4.b.

##### The Magnuson Stevens Fishery Management and Conservation Act

NOAA Fisheries provided a list of several streams in five watersheds
that are crossed by the proposed ROW that are designated Essential Fish
Habitat (EFH) for the Atlantic salmon under the Magnuson Stevens Fishery
Management and Conservation Act (MSA) (see NOAA Fisheries letter dated
January 21, 2005, Appendix 7-2). A discussion of the MSA and EFH for
Atlantic salmon is provided in Section 7.B.

##### The Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act

NOAA Fisheries also indicated the proposed route may affect potential
habitat for three fish species that are regulated under the Fish and
Wildlife Coordination Act (FWCA): the American eel, alewife, and
blueback herring. A discussion of the FWCA and potential presence of
habitat for these three species is also provided in Section 7.B.

#### State Law 

##### The Natural Resources Protection Act

Pursuant to state law, significant wildlife habitat in Maine is
protected under the Natural Resources Protection Act (NRPA), 38 M.R.S.A.
§ 480-A, et seq. The NRPA is administered by the Maine Department of
Environmental Protection (MDEP).

The NRPA recognizes the state-wide significance of natural resources in
terms of educational, historical, and environmental value to present and
future generations. The intent of the NRPA is to prevent any
unreasonable impact, degradation, or destruction of natural resources
and encourages their protection and enhancement. The NRPA protects
natural resources such as: coastal wetlands and sand dunes; freshwater
wetlands; great ponds; rivers, streams and brooks; fragile mountain
areas; and significant wildlife habitat. Significant Wildlife Habitat,
as defined by the NRPA, is identified and mapped by the MDIFW.
Significant Wildlife Habitat, to the extent that it has been mapped by
MDIFW, includes:

-   Habitats for state and federally listed endangered and threatened
    species;

-   High and moderate value DWAs and travel corridors;

-   High and moderate value WWH, including nesting and feeding areas;

-   Critical spawning and nursery areas for Atlantic salmon (as defined
    by the Atlantic Salmon Commission);

-   Shorebird nesting, feeding, and staging areas;

-   Seabird nesting islands; and

-   Significant vernal pools.

##### The Maine Endangered Species Act

An additional protection for wildlife habitat is the Maine Endangered
Species Act (Maine ESA), 12 M.R.S.A Ch. 713 subchapter 5, which is
administered by the MDIFW.

The Maine ESA also has provisions that provide for protection of habitat
of state-listed endangered and threatened species. The Maine ESA gives
authority to MDIFW to designate species as endangered or threatened,
designate "Essential Habitat" for those listed species, develop
guidelines for the protection of these species, and establish programs
that are necessary for the conservation of any endangered or threatened
species. These programs may include acquisition of land/habitat,
propagation, live trapping, and/or transplantation. The statute also
prohibits the import, export, harassment, hunting, take, trapping, or
possession of state-listed species. MDIFW may allow an incidental take
of listed-species as long as the take is incident to and not the purpose
of carrying out an otherwise lawful activity, the take will not impair
the recovery of the species, and an incidental take plan is approved by
the commissioner.

Based on the information received from federal and state agencies,
possible significant or sensitive habitats regulated under the NRPA and
Maine ESA that may be present along the proposed route consist of five
major categories of habitats/areas:

-   Bald Eagle Essential Habitat;

-   Sedge Wren Habitat;

-   DWAs;

-   WWH; and

-   Rare Mussel Habitat.

##### Bald Eagle Essential Habitat

The bald eagle is currently listed as a threatened species under both
the federal ESA and the Maine ESA. Maine has the only substantial
population of bald eagles in the northeastern U.S. Maine's bald eagle
population continues to grow, and annual increases in the census of
nesting pairs on average has increased 8 percent each year since 1990,
when Essential Habitat regulations were adopted in Maine (MDIFW 2004).

Based on existing information from the 2004 MDIFW endangered species
database, several bald eagle nests have been identified in proximity to
the proposed project, as shown on the Significant Wildlife Habitat
mapping in Appendix 7-3. The areas within ¼ mile of these sites have
been designated as Bald Eagle Essential Habitat. However, the project
construction area does not cross any of these known Bald Eagle Essential
Habitat areas. In accordance with previous consultations with MDIFW and
as recommended by the USFWS, BHE will perform an aerial survey of the
proposed route in the spring of 2005 and/or 2006 to identify any new
bald eagle nests that may be established within ¼ mile of the corridor.
The MDIFW and the USFWS will be consulted regarding the design and
extent of the surveys and will be provided the results. Should new eagle
nests be identified, BHE will consult with MDIFW and USFWS to determine
appropriate mitigation for potential impacts.

Additionally, the USFWS noted that riverine corridors such as the
Narraguagus, Machias and St. Croix Rivers may be used by bald eagles for
perching, feeding and movement. They requested that construction of
these corridors include raptor-friendly construction techniques. As
discussed further in subsection 7.A.4., BHE will provide mitigation to
reduce the potential for raptor and other avian species collisions with
the power lines at these river crossings.

##### Sedge Wren Habitat

The sedge wren (*Cisthorus platensis*) is a state-listed endangered
species. It was formerly a widespread breeder in Maine, and was often
found in breeding colonies. Recently only singing males have been
observed sporadically at scattered localities in Kennebec, Penobscot,
Washington, Somerset, Franklin, Sagadahoc, Lincoln, and Hancock
Counties. The preferred breeding habitat is dense stands of sedges and
grasses in wet meadows. The sedge wren has been listed in Maine because
of low population size, a declining population trend, and a population
distribution at fewer than five discreet sites.

Correspondence received from the USFWS reported an occurrence the sedge
wren at Great Works Stream in Bradley. BHE consulted with the MDIFW
about this occurrence and it was determined that the location at which
the sedge wren was observed in Bradley was more than one mile away from
the NRI crossing of Great Works Stream. As a result, this occurrence of
the sedge wren was not included in the GIS data received from MDIFW. It
was also noted, however, that the sedge and grassy wet meadow habitat
preferred by the sedge wren does extend to the proposed crossing
location. Therefore, the potential for the sedge wren to be present in
this portion of the project area can not be ruled out.

#### Significant Wildlife or Rare Species Habitats Crossed by the Proposed Route 

Based upon the review of GIS information received from MDIFW, 44 areas
that are crossed by the proposed project route have been identified as
Significant Wildlife Habitat: 42 are WWHs and two are DWAs. In addition,
the brook floater mussel and associated rare mussel habitat occur at the
Machias River crossing. Each of these categories is described below.
Table 7-2 provides the locations of these areas along the proposed
project route.

  ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  []{#__RefHeading___Toc102437509                                                         
  .anchor}TABLE 7-2. Significant                                                          
  Wildlife or Rare Species Habitats                                                       
  Along Route                                                                             
  --------------------------------- --------------------- ------------------ ------------ ------------
  **Town**                          **Habitat Type/Name** **Value/Status**   **Acreage    **Length of
                                                                             Impacted**   Crossing**

  Brewer                            WWH 13641/050340      high               10.07        \~3513 ft.

  Holden                            WWH 13433             moderate           2.30         \~982 ft.

  Eddington                         WWH 13060             moderate           2.83         \~1020 ft.

  Bradley                           WWH 12718             moderate           5.66         \~1954 ft.

  Bradley                           WWH 12642             moderate           6.72         \~2350 ft.

  Bradley                           WWH 12445/110241      moderate           2.70         \~695 ft.

  Bradley                           WWH 12239/110269      moderate           0.02         \~80 ft.

  Bradley                           WWH 12239/110269      moderate           5.20         \~1347 ft.

  Bradley                           WWH 12028             moderate           2.91         \~752 ft.

  Bradley                           WWH 12061             high               7.40         \~1988 ft.

  Milford                           WWH 12089             moderate           5.68         \~1467 ft.

  Bradley                           WWH 12088             moderate           0.01         \~110 ft.

  Milford                           WWH 12088             moderate           0.001        \~55 ft.

  T32 MD                            WWH 12043             moderate           1.28         \~379 ft.

  T32 MD                            WWH 11795             moderate           2.65         \~681 ft.

  T32 MD                            WWH 11892             moderate           4.68         \~1209 ft.

  T32 MD                            WWH 11679/111104      moderate           2.37         \~616 ft.

  T32 MD                            WWH 11679/111104      moderate           0.96         \~304 ft.

  T32 MD                            WWH 11679/111104      moderate           4.54         \~1091 ft.

  T32 MD                            WWH 11679/111104      moderate           1.74         \~456 ft.

  T32 MD                            WWH 11682             moderate           0.03         \~450 ft.

  T32 MD                            WWH 11682             moderate           5.1          \~1436 ft.

  Great Pond PLT                    DWA 040064            indeterminate      5.02         \~1413 ft.

  T34 MD                            WWH 11569             moderate           3.85         \~1085 ft.

  T34 MD                            WWH 11569             moderate           5.20         \~1523 ft.

  T34 MD                            WWH 11569             moderate           2.25         \~642 ft.

  T35 MD                            WWH 11569             moderate           3.94         \~1124 ft.

  T35 MD                            WWH 11569             moderate           2.89         \~819 ft.

  T35 MD                            WWH 11569             moderate           3.80         \~1071 ft.

  T35 MD                            WWH 11569             moderate           2.17         \~618 ft.

  T35 MD                            WWH 11658             moderate           2.55         \~712 ft.

  T35 MD                            WWH 11635             moderate           0.12         \~250 ft.

  T35 MD                            WWH 11541             high               1.38         \~449 ft.

  T35 MD                            WWH 11093             moderate           1.46         \~424 ft.

  T36 MD BPP/\                      WWH 11238             moderate           3.94         \~1112 ft.
  T37 MD BPP                                                                              

  T36 MD BPP                        WWH 11256             moderate           3.42         \~1094 ft.

  T37 MD BPP                        WWH 11238             moderate           3.53         \~996 ft.

  T37 MD BPP                        IMBIV02100\*079\*ME   special concern    None         \~ 500 ft.
                                    (rare mussel                                          
                                    species)^1^                                           

  No. 21 TWP                        WWH 10517             moderate           2.21         \~615 ft.

  Princeton                         WWH 9996/999          moderate           3.74         \~1051 ft.

  Princeton                         WWH 9881              moderate           2.54         \~755 ft.

  Princeton                         WWH 9792              moderate           4.65         \~1191 ft.

  Princeton                         WWH 9803              high               3.00         \~849 ft.

  Baileyville                       DWA 040454            indeterminate      2.26         \~ 659 ft.

  Baileyville                       WWH 9765              moderate           3.42         \~967 ft.

  ^1^ Denotes the occurrence of the                                                       
  brook floater mussel and                                                                
  associated habitat, but is not                                                          
  considered Significant Wildlife                                                         
  Habitat under the NRPA.                                                                 
  ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

##### Deer Wintering Areas 

During winter, deer in northern climates often subsist on limited
quantities of low quality foods, while simultaneously coping with low
temperatures, chilling winds, and high energy requirements to stay warm
(MDIFW 1990). In Maine, the preferred winter cover for deer is found in
stands of red spruce and hemlock, which provide optimum cover and snow
carrying capacity. These areas are critical for the survival of deer
during the snowy cold winters of interior Maine.

MDIFW is responsible for identifying and protecting deer wintering
areas. DWAs are identified by MDIFW personnel by observation of deer
congregation, deer tracks, current or past browsing, pellet piles, and
bedding sites (Title 12 § 10107). The DWAs assessed by MDIFW are ranked
as high, moderate, indeterminate, or low value based upon deer
populations, shelter quality, browse availability, relationship to other
DWAs, size, and access. Those DWAs that have been identified but have
not been evaluated are classified as unknown.

The proposed transmission line crosses two deer wintering areas of
indeterminate value (Table 7-2). DWA 040064 is found near the
intersection of Main Stream and Alligator Stream in Great Pond
Plantation and is approximately 226 acres in size. The proposed crossing
would be located generally along the edge of the DWA and impacts
approximately 5.02 acres of the DWA. The other DWA crossed by the
project is DWA 040454 in Baileyville. The proposed route would impact
approximately 2.26 acres of this 56.3-acre DWA.

##### Waterfowl and Wading Bird Habitats

Waterfowl and wading birds are a diverse assemblage of species which
make significant, but not exclusive use of wetland habitats. Waterfowl
are defined in Maine statute as species of the family Anatidae, which
includes ducks, geese, and mergansers. Wading birds are considered to
include bitterns, herons, egrets, ibis, rails, coots, and moorhens
(MDIFW 1990).

Waterfowl habitats can be divided seasonally into three categories:
breeding habitats, migration and staging habitats, and wintering
habitats (MDIFW 1990). Wading bird habitats consist of breeding,
feeding, roosting, loafing, and migration stopover areas. Similar to
DWAs, WWHs are ranked as high, moderate, indeterminate or low value
based upon species use, dominant wetland type, diversity of wetland
types, and habitat size. Those that have not been evaluated are
classified as unknown.

MDIFW has designated 42 WWHs that are crossed by the proposed route
(Table 7-2). Thirty-eight of these are ranked as moderate value and four
are ranked as high value habitats.

##### Rare Mussel Habitat - Brook Floater

One federal species of concern was identified by USFWS that occurs or
could potentially occur along the proposed route. The brook floater
mussel is also a state species of special concern that is known to occur
in the Machias River in T37 MD BPP. The brook floater was last observed
in the Machias River in September of 1997. The mussel is classified as
S3 (state rank) and G3 (global rank).

The brook floater is found in streams and rivers of the Atlantic coastal
region, from South Carolina to Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. In Maine
it is known from nearly all of the rivers that historically supported
runs of Atlantic salmon, including the St. George, Sheepscot, Marsh
Stream, several rivers and streams in the Penobscot River watershed, and
most Down East salmon rivers (McCollough et al. 1995). The brook floater
inhabits flowing-water habitats from small streams to large rivers. It
is found in a range of flow conditions, but does not inhabit
high-gradient streams with very fast water flow and coarse substrate
(cobble and boulders), nor is it usually found in slow water. In
general, it is thought to prefer stable habitats such as coarse sand and
gravel. In Maine, it is often found in association with rooted aquatic
vegetation. It is frequently found in streams that have low calcium
levels and are nutrient-poor, a trait shared with some other members of
the genus *Alasmidonta* as well as the eastern pearshell (McCollough et
al. 1995).

### Impacts and Effects on Habitats and Associated Wildlife

The construction and maintenance of the proposed transmission line will
have both permanent and temporary effects on the existing habitats and
associated ecological communities. Permanent effects result primarily
from the conversion of forested habitat to emergent and scrub shrub
habitat. Temporary effects can include minor changes in existing
habitats due to removal of taller, woody vegetation and temporary ground
disturbance during construction, and the short-term effect of ongoing
construction activity on wildlife species that may cause them to leave
the immediate area until construction activities cease.

#### Permanent Vegetation and Habitat Impacts

Construction and long-term maintenance of the project will convert
approximately 686.46 acres of upland forest to shrub or herbaceous
covers. In addition, approximately 175.83 acres of forested wetland will
be converted to a scrub-shrub cover type. Although 43.53 acres of
emergent wetland and 116.95 acres of scrub-shrub wetland are located
within the proposed ROW, minimal clearing impacts will occur to these
wetlands. There will be essentially no impact to the very small amount
of unconsolidated bottom wetlands present (1.66 acres) because they are
primarily open water and the limited amount of vegetation present will
be unaffected by clearing or ROW maintenance. Table 7-1 provides a
summary of projected permanent impacts on wildlife habitat.

Permanent habitat effects will result from unavoidable conversion of
forested cover types to shrub or herbaceous types due to initial
clearing and periodic maintenance of the vegetation in these newly
cleared areas in an early successional stage throughout the life of the
project. It is expected that herbaceous and small woody plants such as
meadowsweet, alder, viburnum species, goldenrod species (*Solidago*
spp.), asters (*Aster* spp.), raspberries and blackberries (*Rubus*
spp.), and several grass species (*Gramineae*) will dominate the ROW.
This long-term conversion of forested cover types to shrub or herbaceous
types can offer certain benefits to some wildlife species, including
succulent grasses and flowering plants for grazing animals, the
production of more fruit for wildlife consumption from berry producing
species, and the direct benefits of food, cover and nesting sites for
species dependant on early successional habitats.

Maintained ROW's can provide habitat for early successional species such
as chesnut-sided warbler (*Dendroica pensylvanica*), yellow warbler,
common yellowthroat, alder flycatcher (*Empidonax alnorum*), eastern
kingbird (*Tyrannus tyrannus*), song sparrow, and indigo bunting
(*Passerina cyanea*). Wide-ranging habitat-generalist species such as
coyote and red fox (*Vulpes vulpes*) may use the ROW as travel
corridors. In addition, maintained utility ROW's are also used for
foraging by several important game species such as white-tailed deer,
moose, black bear, and wild turkey (*Meleagris gallopavo*). On the other
hand, white-tailed deer, which take advantage of the cover during harsh
winter months, could be affected by the loss of canopy if the deer
wintering area were bifurcated. This could in turn affect the region's
capacity by effectively isolating the now separate areas. As such, the
ROW was sited to traverse the edge of the two deer wintering areas
affected by the project. Impacts to forested wetlands may be somewhat
greater than to other wetlands, as the loss of tree canopy may locally
alter the plant communities and affect wildlife. Many year-round native
bird species are most abundant in coniferous swamps during winter.

Impacts to scrub-shrub and emergent wetlands will be less than forested
wetlands, because the vegetation is low and need not be cut. In areas
where vegetation is cleared, for example alders, the light and water
regimes are such that regeneration will consist of species identical
with those already growing. Many of these wetlands are fringes along
streams, where buffer zones and judicious structure placement on nearby
upland will allow the conductors to easily span the wetland area without
any impact to the wetlands and riparian vegetation. Within all affected
wetland habitat, the entire ROW will be maintained in the emergent or
scrub-shrub wetland type. Because the hydrology of the wetlands along
the project route will not be altered (i.e., no inflow/outflow
restrictions), no permanent impact to the principal functions such as
groundwater discharge or sediment stabilization are expected.

##### Mammalian Impacts

It is anticipated that mammals in the general area will not be adversely
affected by the proposed transmission line. With initial clearing of the
project route and construction of the line, larger mammals will likely
be displaced to adjacent forest habitats. The original or historic
carrying capacity of these habitats has previously been altered by the
forest management practices in use for many years, resulting in a
patchwork, dynamic forest. The cleared ROW will be similar in nature and
aspect to the transitory clearcuts and adjacent, cleared ROWs that are
such a prominent feature of the environment in this region of Maine.
Shifting patterns of vegetation in the cleared ROW will likely result in
small changes in mammal populations which will stabilize over time.

The following benefits will likely occur as a result of constructing the
proposed transmission line:

-   Populations of most small mammals will increase, likely benefiting
    predators and the upper food chain;

-   Increased mobility for some larger mammals, including hares, deer,
    moose, and bear, which at times may prefer to travel along the edge
    of the ROW will benefit those species;

-   Long‑term changes in vegetation in the ROW, which will increase
    graminoid food resources, may benefit deer, turkeys, woodchucks, and
    hares; and

-   Improved balance of early successional habitat in the overall
    landscape.

##### Avian Impacts

The greatest impacts to bird populations from the project will result
from the permanent conversion of forest land to open land in the
proposed ROW. The effective loss of forest diminishes the available
habitat for tree‑dependent species. Cavity‑nesters such as hairy
woodpecker, downy woodpecker, pileated woodpecker, black‑capped
chickadee, red‑breasted nuthatch, and brown creeper will likely be
impacted. Populations of these species will be displaced to forests
adjacent to the project ROW where suitable nest sites and areas for
foraging occur. In addition, these species are among the most common
native residents, with large healthy populations.

Other species, dependent on suitable cover, although not cavity‑nesters,
will also be displaced. Red‑eyed vireo, ovenbird, rose‑breasted grosbeak
(*Pheucticus ludovicianus*), scarlet tanager (*Piranga olivacea*),
redstart, chestnut‑sided warbler, and other migrant species which are
forest nesters will move to adjacent habitat.

Many bird species will benefit from the increased open area and from the
creation of edge habitats, especially in upland areas. Among these may
be included white‑throated sparrow, chestnut‑sided warbler, redstart,
chipping sparrow (*Spizella passerine*), ruby‑throated hummingbird
(*Archilochus colubris*), gray catbird (*Dumetella carolinensis*), and
purple finch (*Carpodacus purpureus*). These species nest in brushy
areas that will occur along the edges of the ROW. Wetland dependent
songbirds, including common yellowthroat, red‑winged blackbird, song
sparrow, and yellow‑rumped warbler (*Dendroica coronata*) will also
benefit from cover left in the buffer zones along the streams. It is
likely they will increase in other wetland areas due to the creation of
the ecotone (i.e., edge) habitat. One concern, however, is that
brown‑headed cowbird, a species preferring open land, will increase at
the expense of wood warblers. Cowbirds parasitize wood warbler nests,
causing failure of the brood.

Recent studies of northeastern raptors have shown that habitat diversity
is well tolerated by most species. Brooks (1989) concludes that "a
landscape of interspersed forest and open‑habitat types would best
support the majority of raptor species." In this study of the amount of
ecotone habitat in the northeast, he also concludes that Maine "has the
least diverse landscape of the eight states for which data are
available." Forest openings are used for hunting and foraging, and may
provide greater prey base than contiguous forests.

Among raptors most likely to benefit from increased opening of the
forest is the broad-winged hawk (Titus and Mosher 1981), already the
most abundant raptor in the project area. Kestrels, also abundant
throughout, will likely benefit from increased hunting opportunities,
and may nest on the ROW edge. Other forest‑dwelling raptors, including
red‑tailed hawks, great horned owl, and long‑eared owl should also
benefit from increased diversity. One species, the northern harrier, a
ground nester limited to open wetland areas, may benefit from increased
habitat.

Only northern goshawks, red‑shouldered hawks and barred owls have been
identified as raptors that require large, remote forest tracts (Falk and
Stauffer 1989; Speiser 1989). These species were confirmed breeders in
approximately 20 percent of survey blocks in the project area (Adamus
1987). It is probable that the project will have some negative impact on
populations of these species.

The removal of trees from the ROW may decrease nesting opportunities for
raptors, although no nest sites were observed on the ROW during field
work. The likelihood of ospreys utilizing transmission towers for nest
sites may be assessed in comparison with the existing MEPCO line, where
a number of towers were colonized as observed during field work
conducted previously for the NRI. Most existing sites along the MEPCO
line were observed at streams. Similar situations will likely occur
along the proposed power line.

##### Bird Collisions with Power Lines

Another potential impact on bird populations could result from
collisions with the conductors or shield wire. Bird mortality associated
with electric transmission lines has been extensively studied and bird
mortality rates appear to be influenced by the location of the
transmission line (i.e., lines located near bird concentration areas or
along migration routes result in greater mortality), the species of bird
(physical features), and visibility conditions (low light/fog). Thomspon
(1978) concludes that "the most consistent victims of wire strikes are
large migratory water birds" and that "raptors, due to their great
visual acuity, are rarely victims of wire strikes." Crowder and Rhodes
(2002) found that species of birds that are at greatest risk for
collision are those that show a high wing loading and low wing aspect
ratio. NUS Corporation (1979) reviewed studies of bird interactions with
power lines and also concluded that species with larger appendages
(necks and legs) collided more often with power lines. Examples of such
species include cormorants, coots, ducks, swans, herons, and doves.

Many human structures and activities, including electric transmission
lines, can cause mortality among birds. However, available statistics
indicate the overall estimated mortality due strictly to high voltage
electric transmission line strikes by birds is below that associated
with other structures and activities such as building window strikes,
communication tower strikes, cars, pesticides, and cats (USFWS 2002).
Kroodsma (1978) suggests that avian mortality due to larger transmission
lines (such as the NRI transmission line) should be distinguished from
mortality rates from collisions with smaller distribution lines and
concludes that "deaths caused by transmission lines would appear to have
had no significant impact on waterfowl populations".

Nevertheless, BHE is sensitive to this concern and is proposing to
install markers at two crossings of high value WWH and at the
Narraguagus, Machias and St. Croix River crossings to minimize the
potential of collisions in these areas with concentrated avian activity.
A number of different types of markers have been used with varying
degrees of success (Bridges et al. 2004). Based on discussions with
USFWS and MDIFW biologists, BHE proposes to install markers called
"flappers" on the shield wires at these crossings. The flappers that are
proposed for use utilize motion, reflectivity, and light emissions to
alert birds of an upcoming obstruction. However, anything placed on a
power line has a tendency to accumulate ice and snow in northern
latitudes. The bigger the device placed on the line, the more weight
this will add to the line. Therefore, ice- and wind-loading potential
need to be evaluated before attaching anything to conductors or shield
wires. Clamps that attach a devise to the line may also slip and/or wear
the wire, which may result in damage and failure of the wire. Corona
discharge may also be associated with a device placed on a line, which
can create noise, radio or television interference, create safety
issues, or impede the flow of electricity (Bridges et al. 2004). Once
these evaluations are completed, BHE will consult with the USFWS, MDIFW
and MDEP to finalize the details of this mitigation measure to help
prevent bird strikes.

In addition, colored aviation ball markers will be placed on the shield
wires to increase their visibility to birds as well as aircraft. The
ball markers will be placed on the transmission line crossing of the St.
Croix, the Narraguagus, and the Machias Rivers, and Great Works Stream.
Specific sizes and spacing of the aviation ball markers will be in
accordance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements and
recommendations.

##### Consolidated Corridors Route

It is important to note that [by design]{.underline}, through the
completion of an extensive evaluation of route alternatives that
included the participation of a broad-based stakeholders group, the
majority of the proposed route for the NRI project co-locates impacts
with the adjacent, existing early successional ROW along the MEPCO and
Maritimes pipeline, and along the Stud Mill Road. Co-locating the
vegetation changes that result from the proposed NRI transmission line
with existing cleared ROW and roads will minimize potential habitat
fragmentation to the greatest extent practicable. Special procedures to
minimize vegetation impacts from initial clearing, construction and
follow-up ROW vegetation maintenance within waterbody and other buffers
and the associated benefits to water quality, wildlife and fisheries are
provided in Section 7.B.2, below; Section 10, Buffers; and the Northeast
Reliability Project Post-Construction Vegetation Maintenance Plan (NRI
Vegetation Maintenance Plan), located in Appendix 10-1.

#### Temporary Effects

Other impacts to wildlife habitat from construction of the project, such
as temporary ground disturbance and the associated potential for erosion
and sedimentation of wetlands and streams and temporary changes in
vegetation, will be minimized by completing construction and ROW
restoration activities in accordance with the Northeast Reliability
Project Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan (NRI E&S Plan or Plan),
located in Section 14, Erosion and Sedimentation Control, Appendix 14-1.
The long-term health of vegetation on the ROW and other components of
wildlife habitat, such as water quality, will be enhanced by the
procedures and restrictive measures for cutting of vegetation and
herbicide use set forth in the NRI Vegetation Maintenance Plan (Appendix
10-1). Adherence to these measures to minimize the removal of
vegetation, control and repair disturbed ground, protect riparian areas,
and promote the growth of vigorous, dense vegetative cover, in
compliance with conductor clearance safety requirements, will ensure
that these temporary impacts are localized and short-term in nature.

### Impacts and Effects on Significant or Sensitive Wildlife Habitats

#### Bald Eagle Nest Sites

The proposed construction corridor does not cross any known Bald Eagle
Essential Habitat areas. As a result, no impacts are anticipated and no
mitigation is currently proposed. BHE will perform an aerial survey of
the proposed route in the spring of 2005 and/or 2006 to identify any new
bald eagle nests that may be established within ¼ mile of the corridor.
Should new eagle nests be identified, BHE will consult with MDIFW and
USFWS to determine appropriate mitigation for potential impacts.
Typically, disturbance to eagle nests is avoided by prohibiting
construction activity within the Essential Habitat during the time of
year when breeding and nesting activities occur (generally February 1
though May 15, continuing until August 31 if the nest is occupied).

[]{.mark}

As mentioned previously, pending completion of engineering evaluations
to ensure that the integrity and reliability of the NRI transmission
line will not be compromised, BHE is proposing to install flappers that
utilize motion, reflectivity, and light emissions to alert birds of the
presence of a power line or other obstructions. As recommended by the
USFWS, the flappers will be installed at the power line crossings of the
Narraguagus, St. Croix, and the Machias Rivers, and Great Works Stream
because these riverine corridors are likely used by bald eagles for
perching, feeding and movement. Flappers will also be installed at all
high value WWH crossings along the route. Specific sizes, color and
spacing of the flappers will be determined in accordance with the
results of the engineering evaluation and recommendations by the State
Non-Game Biologist. In addition, colored aviation ball markers will be
placed on the shield wires at the transmission line crossings of the St.
Croix, the Narraguagus, and the Machias Rivers and Great Works Stream to
increase their visibility to eagles and other raptors and birds, as well
as aircraft. Specific sizes and spacing of the aviation ball markers
will be in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
requirements.

#### Sedge Wren Habitat 

[]{.mark}

There are no known occurrences of the sedge wren within over one mile of
NRI project construction areas. Suitable sedge wren habitat (dense sedge
and grass wet meadows) does occur at the Great Works Stream crossing in
Bradley. However, no structures will be located within the sedges and
grasses bordering Great Works Stream, and other construction or
operation activities for the NRI transmission line will not require
cutting or alteration of this habitat. Since no alteration of the amount
or type of vegetation will be required in this potential sedge wren
habitat, no impacts to the sedge wren are expected at the Great Works
Stream crossing or elsewhere along the proposed route.

[]{.mark}

#### Deer Wintering Areas 

[]{.mark}

The proposed transmission line crosses two deer wintering areas listed
as indeterminate value. During BHE consultations with MDIFW regarding
the need for mitigation of project impacts to these DWA areas, MDIFW has
indicated that no mitigation is required as the project was sited to
'skirt' the edges of the two deer wintering areas. Vegetation
maintenance during on-going operation of the NRI ROW will create a
considerable amount of new browse habitat for deer.

[]{.mark}

#### Waterfowl and Wading Bird Habitats

[]{.mark}

MDIFW has designated 42 WWHs that are crossed by the proposed route.
Forty of these are ranked as moderate value and two are ranked as high
value habitats. WWHs are typically open water/floating leaved aquatic
and emergent habitats that will not change as a result of project
construction or operation. As determined through consultations with
MDIFW, BHE is proposing to prohibit all clearing and construction
activity, as well as follow-up routine vegetation maintenance in these
WWH areas between April 15 and July 15 each year. The restriction on
activity within the WWHs will minimize the potential disruption of avian
breeding and nesting activity. MDIFW concurrence with this mitigation
proposal is documented in the minutes of a meeting held with MDIFW
biologists on January 20, 2005. The meeting minutes are located in
Appendix 7-2.

In addition, because WWH areas are typically located within wetland
areas, the use of herbicides for vegetation maintenance will be
prohibited within most of the areas mapped as WWH (see the NRI
Vegetation Maintenance Plan in Appendix 10-1). The NRI E&S Plan, located
in Appendix 14-1, also contains additional measures to prevent erosion
and sedimentation within all wetland areas on or adjacent to the ROW in
general.

[]{.mark}

#### Rare Mussel Habitat - Brook Floater

[]{.mark}

The brook floater mussel is known to occur in the Machias River.
However, no impacts to the brook floater are expected to result from
construction or operation of the NRI project because no in-stream
activities are required. The crossing of all streams will utilize
existing crossings or temporary equipment crossings that span the
streams. To avoid impacts to potential brook floater habitat (as well as
other impacts on the Machias River), the existing Stud Mill Road bridge
that spans the river at the NRI crossing will be used. Proposed
restrictions on clearing prior to construction and ROW vegetation
maintenance following construction will mitigate for potential affects
on water quality or temperature, given that the Machias River is already
exposed to direct sunlight in this area (see the NRI E&S Plan and the
NRI Vegetation Maintenance Plan).

The NRI E&S Plan includes other measures to protect water quality from
sedimentation and the NRI Vegetation Maintenance Plan includes a
prohibition on the use of herbicides within at least 25 feet of the
Machias River and its associated wetlands. The wetlands at the Machias
River crossing extend out approximately 100 feet on the west side and
150 feet on the east side of the river.

## Fisheries

### Waterbody Crossings and Associated Fisheries

The proposed NRI project will cross a total of 119 waterbodies
consisting of two major crossings (over 100 feet in width) and 117 minor
crossings. The two major waterbody crossings are Great Works Stream in
Bradley, and the St. Croix River/Woodland Flowage in Baileyville. The
minor crossings include both perennial and intermittent waterbodies. A
table titled "Waterbodies Crossed by the NRI Project," which lists all
waterbody crossings required for the project with pertinent name,
location, size and water quality and fishery type classifications, is
provided in Appendix 7-4.

Fishery types in these waterbodies have been characterized as coldwater,
warmwater, coldwater/warmwater, or unknown, based on the primary fish
species found in them and the management objectives for the stream as
identified by the MDIFW. The most recognized species comprising
coldwater fisheries are members of the family Salmonidae (trout and
salmon). Coldwater species that may occur in the project area include
brook trout (*Salvelinus fontinalis*) and Atlantic salmon. Brook trout
are essentially ubiquitous in the project area and may be found in some
portion of many of the waterbodies. Species that comprise warmwater
fisheries include smallmouth bass (*Micropterous dolomieu*), chain
pickerel (*Esox niger*), and sunfish (*Lepomis* spp.). For some
waterbodies, the fishery is most accurately described as
coldwater/warmwater because one classification does not predominate over
the other. The "unknown" classification for some of the waterbodies
results from a lack of specific knowledge by the resource management
agencies. These lesser waterbodies have not been studied because there
has been low priority for extending research to the large number of
minor waterbodies in Maine considering the abundance of larger and more
significant streams and lakes. Some of the minor crossings classified as
unknown probably support brook trout, albeit they are likely small
and/or seasonal populations. Intermittent waterbodies may provide only
extremely short-term fishery habitat value, if any.

Table 7-3, provided on the following page, is a comprehensive listing of
fish species potentially present in the waterbodies crossed by the NRI
project.

  -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  []{#__RefHeading___Toc102437510                                     
  .anchor}TABLE 7-3. List of                                          
  Potential Fish Species in the                                       
  Project Area                                                        
  --------------------------------- ----------------- --------------- ---------------
  **Scientific Name**               **Common Name**   **Warmwater**   **Coldwater**

  *Anguilla rostrata^1^*            American eel      X               X

  *Couesius plumbeus*               Lake chub         X               X

  *Luxilus cornutus*                Common shiner     X               

  *Notemigonus crysoleucas*         Golden shiner     X               

  *Notropis hudsonius*              Spottail shiner   X               

  *Phoxinus eos*                    N. redbelly dace  X               X

  *Rhinichthys atratulus*           Blacknose dace                    X

  *Rhinichthys cataractae*          Longnose dace                     X

  *Margariscus margarita*           Pearl dace        X               X

  *Semotilus corporalis*            Fallfish                          X

  *Semotilus atromaculatus*         Creek chub                        X

  *Catostomus catostomus*           Longnose sucker                   X

  *Catostomus commersoni*           White sucker      X               X

  *Erimyzon oblongus*               Creek chubsucker  X               

  *Ameiurus nebulosus*              Brown bullhead    X               

  *Salmo salar^1^*                  Atlantic salmon                   X

  *Salvelinus fontinalis^1^*        Brook trout                       X

  *Osmerus mordax^1^*               Rainbow smelt                     X

  *Esox niger^1^*                   Chain pickerel    X               

  *Lota lota*                       Burbot                            X

  *Cottus cognatus*                 Slimy sculpin                     X

  *Morone americana^1^*             White perch       X               

  *Micropterus dolomieu^1^*         Smallmouth bass   X               

  *Lepomis auritus*                 Redbreast sunfish X               

  *Lepomis gibbosus*                Pumpkinseed       X               

  *Perca flavescens^1^*             Yellow Perch      X               

  ^1^ Sport or commercial species                                     
  -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

#### Atlantic salmon

Pursuant to the MSA, 16 U.S.C. § 1801 et seq., NOAA Fisheries, fishery
management councils, along with other federal and state agencies and the
fishing community are charged with identifying habitats essential to
managed species, including the Atlantic salmon. These habitats are known
as EFH. All waters currently or historically accessible to Atlantic
salmon in New England have been designated as EFH for Atlantic salmon.
NOAA Fisheries has identified numerous streams within five watersheds
crossed by the proposed ROW that are considered EFH for Atlantic salmon.
The MSA mandates that NOAA Fisheries coordinate with other federal
agencies to avoid, minimize, mitigate, or otherwise offset effects on
EFH that could result from federal actions or other proposed activities.
NOAA Fisheries has indicated that an EFH assessment will be required
during federal permitting of the project.

The Atlantic salmon is also federally-listed as endangered pursuant to
the ESA, as the Gulf of Maine Distinct Population Segment of Atlantic
salmon. The project will cross portions of three watersheds that fall
within potential habitat for this Distinct Population Segment: the
Narraguagus, Machias and East Machias River watersheds. The Atlantic
salmon is jointly listed by the USFWS and NOAA Fisheries; however, the
USFWS has lead agency status for ESA Section 7 consultations for those
projects that occur within the freshwater habitat of Atlantic salmon.

Through consultation with USFWS, and the Maine Atlantic Salmon
Commission (ASC), nine of the waterbodies crossed by the proposed route
in the three watersheds are considered to be of "special environmental
concern" with regard to providing potential habitat for Atlantic salmon
(as identified on the project plan and profiles drawings as "ASC Water
of Special Concern"). The consultation included a site visit to the
areas of the route that cross the three watersheds. The nine waterbodies
identified are the Narraguagus River, two unnamed tributaries to Fifth
Machias Lake, an unnamed tributary to Fletcher Brook, the Machias River,
Dead Stream, Lanpher Brook, Huntley Brook, and Joe Brook. Correspondence
related to the fisheries consultations under the ESA are included in
Appendix 7-2. Descriptions of each of these streams that may have the
potential to provide "salmon habitat" follow.

##### Narraguagus River (Project Survey Station 2218+80)

The Narraguagus River is a perennial stream, approximately 50 feet wide
at the location of the proposed crossing. The State Water Quality Class
is AA and it is designated as a coldwater fishery. The Narraguagus River
may contain small numbers of naturally-reproducing Atlantic salmon.
Habitat at the location of the crossing is not considered prime habitat
as it is slow flowing with sand and silt substrate. Juvenile and adult
salmon may, however, move through this area. The banks are low and are
vegetated primarily by grasses and shrubs.

##### Tributary to Fifth Machias Lake (Project Survey Station 2270-15)

This tributary to Fifth Machias Lake is a perennial stream approximately
five feet wide at the location of the proposed crossing. The State Water
Quality Class is A. The stream is considered coldwater fish habitat and
contains potential juvenile (parr) Atlantic salmon habitat.

##### Tributary to Fifth Machias Lake (Project Survey Station 2273+05)

This tributary to Fifth Machias Lake is a perennial stream approximately
five feet wide at the location of the proposed crossing. The State Water
Quality Class A. The stream is considered coldwater fish habitat and has
the potential to provide habitat for juvenile (parr) Atlantic salmon.

##### Tributary to Fletcher Brook (Project Survey Station 2913+02)

This tributary to Fletcher Brook is a perennial stream approximately
four feet wide at the location of the proposed crossing. The State Water
Quality Class is A. The fishery type for the stream is unknown. There is
potential for this stream to provide habitat for juvenile (parr)
Atlantic salmon present in the area of the proposed crossing.

##### Machias River (Project Survey Station 2963+21)

The Machias River is a perennial stream, approximately 72 feet wide at
the location of the proposed crossing. The State Water Quality Class is
AA, and it is considered to be a coldwater/warmwater fishery. The
Machias River may contain small numbers of naturally-reproducing
Atlantic salmon and is also actively stocked with Atlantic salmon.
Salmon spawning and rearing habitat is located in the vicinity of the
crossing location and this section of the river is important run habitat
for adult salmon accessing upstream spawning habitat or for smolts and
adults as they migrate downstream to the ocean. The bottom substrate in
this area is mostly gravel and sand. The banks are relatively steep and
are vegetated with alders and red maples along the water and white pines
higher on the banks. This segment of the Machias River is also on the
National Rivers Inventory.

##### Tributary to Dead Stream (Project Survey Station 3042+52)

This tributary to Dead Stream is a perennial stream, approximately 3½
feet wide at the location of the proposed crossing. The State Water
Quality Class is A. The stream is considered coldwater fish habitat, and
has the potential to provide habitat for juvenile (parr) Atlantic
salmon. Dead Stream is a tributary to First Lake, which is a headwater
of Old Stream, a major tributary of the Machias River.

##### Lanpher Brook (Project Survey Station 3113+39)

Lanpher Brook is a perennial stream, approximately two feet wide at the
location of the proposed transmission line crossing. The State Water
Quality Class is A. The stream is considered coldwater fish habitat, and
has the potential to provide habitat for juvenile (parr) Atlantic
salmon. Lanpher Brook is a tributary to Third Lake, which is a headwater
of Old Stream, a major tributary of the Machias River. The proposed
transmission line crossing is 1.4 miles upstream from Third Lake.

##### Huntley Brook (Project Survey Station 3702+97)

Huntley Brook is a perennial stream, approximately 20 feet wide at the
location of the proposed crossing. The State Water Quality Class is A.
The stream is considered coldwater fish habitat, and has the potential
to provide habitat for juvenile (parr) Atlantic salmon. Stream bottom
substrate in this area is gravel/cobble. Huntley Brook is a tributary to
Crawford Lake, which is approximately 4 miles downstream from the
proposed crossing. The main stem of the East Machias River flows out of
Crawford Lake.

##### Joe Brook (Project Survey Station 3831+68)

Joe Brook is a perennial stream, approximately 10 feet wide at the
location of the proposed crossing. The State Water Quality Class is A.
The stream is considered coldwater fish habitat, and has the potential
to provide habitat for juvenile (parr) Atlantic salmon. It is rocky with
a boulder riffle, woody debris, and gravel/cobble substrate in the area
of the proposed crossing. The proposed crossing is approximately 2.2
miles upstream from the confluence of Joe Brook with Allen Stream. Allen
Stream flows into the Maine River. The Maine River is a major tributary
to Crawford Lake. The East Machias River flows out of Crawford Lake.

#### Shortnose Sturgeon 

The shortnose sturgeon is also federally-listed as endangered pursuant
to the ESA. The shortnose sturgeon is an anadromous fish that spawns in
large coastal rivers along the east coast of North America from the St.
John River in New Brunswick, Canada, to the St. Johns River in Florida.
It prefers the nearshore marine, estuarine, and riverine habitat of
large river systems. Shortnose sturgeon are found in the main stem of
the Penobscot River. The proposed project does not cross the Penobscot
River; therefore, no impacts to shortnose sturgeon or its habitat are
anticipated from the construction or operation of the project. NOAA
Fisheries concurred with this assessment reporting that shortnose
sturgeon are not known to occur within the area affected by the proposed
project.

#### Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act 

NOAA Fisheries reported that portions of the proposed route may affect
habitat suitable for American eel, alewife, and blueback herring,
particularly the areas near the Machias, Narraguagus, and St. Croix
Rivers. These species are regulated under the FWCA, 16 U.S.C. §§
661-667e. The statute requires federal agencies to take into
consideration the effect that water-related projects would have on fish
and wildlife resources, prevent loss or damage to these resources, and
provide for the development and improvement of these resources. Typical
actions that fall under the jurisdiction of the FWCA include:

-   discharges of pollutants including industrial, mining, municipal
    wastes, dredging, and placing fill material into a water body or
    wetland; or

-   projects involving construction of dams, levees, impoundments,
    stream relocation, and water-diversion structures.

If the proposed project is being constructed, licensed, or permitted by
a federal agency and involves any of these activities or any activity
resulting in the control or modification of any waterbody for any
purpose, then the federal agency must consult with the USFWS and NMFS,
and state fish and wildlife agency to develop measures to mitigate for
project-related losses of fish and wildlife resources.

[]{.mark}

### Impacts and Effects on Waterbodies and Associated Fisheries

Erosion and sedimentation during construction and locally increased
stream insolation (exposure to sunlight) are typical impacts associated
with the construction of utility corridors (Peterson 1993).
Sedimentation can result in reduced light penetration, smothering of
aquatic feeding and spawning areas, and impairment of aquatic
respiration. Increased water temperature due to solar exposure can also
pose problems for coldwater fisheries. Peterson (1993) has reported that
the removal of tree canopy (on new ROWs) increases stream insolation
during the short term, but within two years the areas are bordered by
dense shrubs and emergent vegetation and water temperatures are not
significantly greater when compared with upstream forested reaches.

To minimize any potential for negative impacts to stream habitat and
fisheries, BHE is proposing a minimum 75-foot-wide buffer, as measured
from the top of both banks, for all waterbodies crossed by the project
that are not adjacent to the MEPCO line and a minimum 25-foot-wide
buffer for all waterbodies crossed by the project that are adjacent to
the MEPCO line. As described in greater detail in Section 10, Buffers,
waterbody buffers will be wider than 25/75 feet where site-specific
conditions allow for a wider buffer without undue hindrance to required
maintenance activity or increasing the potential for disturbing soils or
remaining vegetation in order to complete required vegetation
maintenance. Clearing prior to construction and follow-up vegetation
maintenance during operation within standard waterbody buffers will be
restricted to the removal of "capable species" that are greater than 8
to 10 feet tall, dead or dying trees only. Capable species are defined
as those plant species that are capable of growing tall enough to reach
within the required clearance between conductors and vegetation that is
established by the New England Power Pool (NEPOOL) Vegetation
Maintenance Standard. The NEPOOL Vegetation Maintenance Standard for the
NRI transmission line requires 15 feet of clearance between vegetation
and conductors. Compliance with the NEPOOL Vegetation Maintenance
Standard within waterbody buffers will be achieved by maintaining the
height of capable species at 8 to 10 feet, due to the sag in power lines
and to allow for tree growth until the next maintenance cycle (typically
3-4 years for stream buffers). Removal of capable species, where
required, will be conducted by hand cutting or reaching into the buffer
with mechanized tree harvesting equipment located outside the buffer.

No other vegetation will be removed or disturbed within the stream
buffers other than that necessary to install temporary equipment
crossings, where needed. Otherwise, stream side vegetation will not be
disturbed during construction or during future maintenance activities
and the buffer will continue to function in a similar manner as before
construction. No structures will be installed within the stream buffers
and no work will take place within the stream channels. Existing access
roads will be used to cross all streams to the extent practicable. If a
temporary crossing is required, all crossings will span the stream
channel. Appropriate erosion and sedimentation controls will be
installed and maintained throughout construction to minimize the
potential for sedimentation of waterbodies from disturbed soils or other
construction activity. The use of herbicides will not be allowed in any
stream buffer areas.

Section 10, Buffers describes typical vegetation maintenance procedures
within waterbody buffer zones. Detailed descriptions and drawings of the
erosion and sedimentation control measures that will be used during
construction of the line and final stabilization of the ROW, and the
restrictions and procedures to be employed during post-construction
vegetation maintenance are provided in the NRI E&S Plan and the NRI
Vegetation Maintenance Plan, located in Appendices 14-1 and 10-1,
respectively. It is important to note that existing understory
vegetation will remain on the entire ROW during and following
construction, except in localized areas where structures are required.
The only areas where soil disturbance is likely is at structure
locations. Installation of structures is typically completed within less
than a day and the area is restored and stabilized. Appropriate erosion
and sedimentation control measures will be installed at these locations
to prevent sedimentation of wetlands and waterbodies. As a result, the
overall potential for erosion and sedimentation is minimal.

The proposed buffers are greater than MDIFW prior recommendations to
protect waterbodies from sedimentation and surface runoff, as confirmed
in emails received from MDIFW Fisheries Biologists on February 4, 2005,
and to minimize adverse effects on wildlife habitat (see agency
correspondence and January 20, 2005 meeting minutes in Appendix 7-2).

#### ASC Waters of Special Concern

BHE is proposing to provide the tallest vegetated buffer possible,
within the constraints of the NEPOOL Vegetation Maintenance Standard,
for those streams that have been identified in the field to contain
potential salmon habitat. To accomplish this, initial clearing and
post-construction vegetation maintenance will consist of removing only
those capable species that are likely to grow within 15 feet of a
conductor (the smallest separation allowed by NEPOOL) within the next 3
to 4 year maintenance cycle. Topping of trees is the preferred method of
vegetation maintenance within salmon habitat stream buffers, unless the
tree is dead or dieing, or topping will leave insufficient vegetation to
sustain the tree. In addition, individual structure (pole) locations on
either side of salmon habitat streams will be sited as close to the
stream buffer as practical (but not in the buffer). The closer the pole
is to the stream the higher the conductor will be over the stream and
buffer. This will create a conductor height that will preserve as much
shading as possible. BHE consultations with fishery management agencies
indicated concurrence with this mitigation proposal (see meeting minutes
dated January 19, 2005 located in Appendix 7-2\]. Section 10, Buffers
describes the proposed vegetation maintenance practices in the salmon
habitat stream buffer zones.

The Machias and Narraguagus Rivers are designated Outstanding River
Segments under the NRPA and high value recreational resources. Due to
special concerns about providing an effective visual buffer to screen
the ROW and structures at these two river crossings, BHE is proposing to
restrict the initial cutting of vegetation and follow-up maintenance
trimming to only those species that are likely to encroach on the NEPOOL
conductor safety zone within the next maintenance cycle far beyond the
typical 25-foot buffer width. As a result of providing visual screening,
the effective buffer width at the Narraguagus River will be
approximately 290 feet on the west side and approximately 500 feet on
the east side. At the Machias River, the effective buffer width will be
approximately 210 feet on the west side and approximately 360 feet on
the east side.

All other erosion and sedimentation control procedures and requirements
and vegetation maintenance restrictions that apply in all waterbody
buffers will also apply in the salmon habitat stream buffers.

#### Other Potential Salmon Streams 

As discussed previously in this section, the Distinct Population Segment
of Atlantic salmon associated with the Narraguagus, Machias and East
Machias Rivers has been listed as endangered under the ESA. In
accordance with the recommendation of the ASC (see ASC letter dated
January 24, 2005 in Appendix 7-2), BHE will apply the salmon habitat
stream buffer clearing and maintenance restrictions described above at
all streams located in these three watersheds. Most of these additional
streams are less than 10 feet wide. Accordingly, the potential for
additional vegetation height along these streams should minimize
potential warming that might otherwise result from removal of adjacent
vegetation.

#### American Eel, Alewife and Blueback Herring 

American eel, alewife and, possibly, blueback herring may be present in
rivers and streams within the Narraguagus, Machias and St. Croix River
watersheds. Nevertheless, potential adverse impacts to these migratory
species are not expected to result from construction or operation of the
NRI project. No in-stream work is required. The main stem of the
Narraguagus, Machias and St. Croix Rivers will be crossed using existing
bridges. Any temporary stream crossings that are needed in these
watersheds, or elsewhere, will span the stream and appropriate erosion
and sedimentation controls will be applied. As described previously in
Section 7.B, the proposed restrictions on cutting of vegetation,
herbicide and petroleum use within waterbody buffers will help ensure
that water quality and temperature are not affected.

## References

Adamus, P.R. 1987. Atlas of Breeding Birds in Maine. 1978-1983. Maine
Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Augusta, Maine, 366 pp.

Anderson, J.R., E.E. Hardy, J.T. Roach, and R.E Witmer. 1976. Land Use
and Land Cover Classification System for Use with Remote Sensor Data.
Geological Survey Professional Paper 964. U.S. Geological Survey,
Washington D.C. 28 pp.

Anderson, W. L. 1978. Waterfowl Collisions with Power Lines at a
Coal-Fired Power Plant. Wildlife Society Bulletin 6:77-83.

Banasiak, C.F. 1964. Deer in Maine. Maine Department of Inland Fisheries
and Wildlife, Augusta, Maine. 163 pp.

Bridges, J.M., T.R. Anderson, D. Shulund, L. Spiegel, and T. Chervick.
Minimizing bird collisions: What works for the birds and what works for
the utility?

Brooks, R. T. 1989. Status and Trends of Raptor Habitat in the
Northeast. Pp 123-132 *in* Proc. Northeast Raptor Management Symposium
and Workshop (B. Pendleton, Ed). Washington, D.C., National Wildlife
Federation.

Cowardin, L.M., V. Carter, F.C. Golet, and E.T. LaRoe. 1979.
Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States.
Office of Biological Services, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
FWS/OBS-79/31.

Crowder, M.R. and O.E. Rhodes, Jr. 2002. Relationships between wing
morphology and behavioral responses to unmarked power transmission
lines. In: Proceedings of the Seventh International Symposium on
Environmental Concerns in Rights-of-Way Management. ed. J.W.
Goodrich-Mahoney, D. Mutrie, and C. Guild. Elsevier Science Ltd. pp.
403-410.

DeGraaf, R.M., and M. Yamasaki. 2001. New England Wildlife: Habitat,
Natural History, and Distribution. University Press of New England,
Hanover, NH. 482 pp.

DeGraaf, R.M., M. Yamasaki, W.B. Leak, and J.W. Lanier. 1992. New
England Wildlife: Management of Forested Habitats. Gen. Tech. Rep.
NE-144. U.S. Dept. of Agric., Forest Service, Northeastern Forest Exp.
Stat. 271 pp.

Detrich, P.J. 1987. Behavior of Wintering Bald Eagles Near a 110kV
Transmission Line in Lake County, CA*.* Unpubl. Rep. VS Bureau of Land
Management, Sacramento, CA. 17 pp.

Hunter, M.L., J. Albright, and J. Arbuckle (editors). 1992. The
Amphibians and reptiles of Maine. Maine Agric. Exp. Stat. Bulletin 838.
188 pp.

Johnsgard, P.A. 1990. Hawks, Eagles, and Falcons of North America.
Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington, D.C. 403 pp.

Kricher, J.C. 1988. A Field Guide to Eastern Forests. Houghton Mifflin
Co., Boston, Mass. 368 pp.

Kroodsma, R.L. 1978. Evaluation of a Transmission line's Impact on
Waterfowl and Eagles. In*:* Impacts of transmission lines on birds in
flight. M.L. Avery (ed.). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Biological
Services Program, Washington D.C. 69-76 pp.

Kusler, J.A., and Kentula, M.E (editors). 1990. Wetland Creation and
Restoration, the Status of the Science. Island Press. Washington, D.C.
594 pp.

Lee Rue III, Leonard. 1997. The Deer of North America. New York, N.Y.
544 pp.

Magee, D.W., and Ahles, H.E. 1999. Flora of the Northeast, A Manual of
the Vascular Flora of New England and Adjacent New York. University of
Massachusetts Press. 1213 pp.

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. 1990. Conservation of
Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Habitat. Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries
and Wildlife. Augusta, Maine. 17 pp.

Maine Natural Areas Program. 2004. Natural landscapes of Maine: A
Classification of Vegetated Natural Communties and Ecosystems*.*
Department of Conservation. Augusta, Maine. 349 pp.

McCollough, M., B. Swartz, M. Siebenmann, and J. Haskins. 1995. A Survey
of the Freshwater Mussels of Eastern and Southern Maine. Maine Dept. of
Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Endangered and Threatened Species Group.
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Meyer, J.R., and J.M. Lee, Jr. 1981. Effects of Transmission Lines on
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Peterson, A.M. 1993. Effects of Electric Transmission Rights-of Way on
Trout in Forested Headwater Waterbodiess in New York. N. Am. J. Fish
Manage. 13(3): 581-585.

Savereno, A.J., L.A. Savereno, R. Boettcher, and S.M. Haig. 1996. Avian
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Stanton, D. C. 1963. A History of the White-Tailed Deer in Maine. Maine
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Steenhoof, K. 1977. Management of Wintering Bald Eagles*.* U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, Columbia, MI. 59 pp.

Stout, I. J. and G. W. Cornwell. 1976. Nonhunting Mortality of Fledged
North American Waterfowl. Journal of Wildlife Management, 40:681-693.

Titus, K. and J.A. Mosher. 1981. Nest-Site Habitat Selected by Woodland
Hawks in the Central Appalachians. Auk 98:270-281.

Thompson, L.S. 1978. Transmission Line Wire Strikes: Mitigation through
Engineering Design and Habitat Modification. In: M.L. Avery (editor).
Impacts of Transmission Lines on Birds in Flight: Proceedings of a
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Human-Caused Threats Afflict our Bird Populations, USFWS Pamphlet,
Arlington, Virginia. 2 pp.

**APPENDIX 7-1**

**OBSERVED AND POTENTIAL WILDLIFE SPECIES ASSOCIATED WITH THE PROJECT
AREA**

The following table provides information on the wildlife resources that
occur or potentially occur in the Northeast Reliability Interconnect
project area. The table was compiled from information in DeGraaf and
Yamasaki 2001 and through field observation. DeGraaf et. al. and Hunter
et. al. 1992 provide a species list, relative abundance, habitat, and
general impact information.

**Wildlife Species That Occur or Potentially Occur in the Project Area**

+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| **        | **         | **Rel | *   | **Habitat**                  |
| Species** | Scientific | ative | *St |                              |
|           | Name**     | Abun  | atu |                              |
|           |            | dance | s^2 |                              |
|           |            | ^1^** | ^** |                              |
+===========+============+=======+=====+==============================+
| **HER     |            |       |     |                              |
| PETILES** |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Blu       | *Ambystoma | R     |     | Moist areas such as vernal   |
| e-spotted | laterale*  |       |     | pools and forested wetlands  |
| S         |            |       |     |                              |
| alamander |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Spotted   | *Ambystoma | C     |     | Moist forested areas, vernal |
| S         | maculatum* |       |     | pools, marshy areas, mixed   |
| alamander |            |       |     | woods                        |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Re        | *Not       | C     |     | Juveniles (red efts) in      |
| d-spotted | ophthalmus |       |     | moist forested areas, adults |
| Newt      | vi         |       |     | in slow moving waters        |
|           | ridescens* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| N. Dusky  | *De        | C     |     | Cool running waters at       |
| S         | smognathus |       |     | forest margin                |
| alamander | fuscus*    |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Redback   | *Plethodon | A     |     | Mixed deciduous woodlands;   |
| Sal       | cinereus*  |       |     | under decaying logs, rocks   |
| amander\* |            |       |     | and litter                   |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Four-toed | *Hem       | R     |     | Wet forested areas with      |
| S         | idactylium |       |     | sphagnum moss, bogs          |
| alamander | scutatum*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| N.        | *Eurycea   | C     |     | Floodplains, moist forests   |
| Two-lined | b          |       |     | near seeps                   |
| S         | islineata* |       |     |                              |
| alamander |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| E.        | *Bufo      | C     |     | Forested habitats, existing  |
| American  | a          |       |     | ROW                          |
| Toad\*    | mericanus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| N. Spring | *          | C to  |     | Wetlands such emergent and   |
| Peeper    | Pseudacris | A     |     | scrub-shrub, edges of        |
|           | crucifer*  |       |     | waterbodies                  |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Gray Tree | *Hyla      | C     |     | Forested areas, scrub-shrub  |
| frog\*    | v          |       |     | swamps                       |
|           | ersicolor* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Bullfrog  | *Rana      | C     |     | Shorelines of large          |
|           | ca         |       |     | waterbodies                  |
|           | tesbeiana* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Green     | *Rana      | C     |     | Riparian areas along         |
| Frog\*    | clamitans* |       |     | waterbodies and shallow      |
|           |            |       |     | pools                        |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Mink Frog | *Rana      | C     |     | Margins of ponds,            |
|           | septen     |       |     | waterbodies                  |
|           | trionalis* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Wood Frog | *Rana      | C     |     | Forested areas, vernal pools |
|           | sylvatica* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| N.        | *Rana      | C     |     | Wet open fields, emergent    |
| Leopard   | pipiens*   |       |     | wetlands                     |
| Frog\*    |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Pickerel  | *Rana      | C     |     | Wet open areas, waterbodies  |
| Frog\*    | palustris* |       |     | and pond margins             |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Snapping  | *Chelydra  | C     |     | Permanent waterbodies        |
| Turtle    | s          |       |     |                              |
|           | erpentina* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Wood      | *Clemmys   | U to  |     | Slow-moving sandy/gravel     |
| Turtle    | insculpta* | C     |     | bottom waterbodies, fields   |
|           |            |       |     | and woods                    |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| E.        | *Chrysemys | C     |     | Slow, quiet waterbodies      |
| Painted   | picta*     |       |     |                              |
| Turtle    |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| N. Water  | *Nerodia   | C     |     | Permanently flooded          |
| Snake     | sipedon*   |       |     | wetlands, waterbodies        |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| N.        | *Storeria  | C     |     | Moist woodlands, bogs with   |
| Redbelly  | occipit    |       |     | sphagnum                     |
| Snake     | omaculata* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| E. Garter | *          | A     |     | Variety of terrestrial       |
| Snake\*   | Thamnophis |       |     | habitats                     |
|           | sirtalis*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| N.        | *Diadophis | C     |     | Shady woodlands and under    |
| Ringneck  | punctatus* |       |     | logs, rocks                  |
| Snake     |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| E. Smooth | *Opheodrys | U     |     | Upland areas, scrublands,    |
| Green     | vernalis*  |       |     | existing ROW                 |
| Snake     |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| E. Milk   | *La        | U     |     | Variety of habitats such as  |
| Snake     | mpropeltis |       |     | scrublands, woodlands and    |
|           | t          |       |     | ROW edge                     |
|           | riangulum* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| **        |            |       |     |                              |
| MAMMALS** |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Masked    | *Sorex     | U to  |     | Damp woodlands with          |
| Shrew     | cinereus*  | C     |     | structures                   |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Water     | *Sorex     | U     |     | Riparian and wetland areas   |
| Shrew     | palustris* |       |     | in coniferous areas          |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Smoky     | *Sorex     | U     |     | Moist, bouldery upland areas |
| Shrew     | fumeus*    |       |     | with moss, clear cuts        |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Lo        | *Sorex     | R     |     | Deep coniferous/mixed        |
| ng-tailed | dispar*    |       |     | forests, with moss covered   |
| Shrew     |            |       |     | rocks                        |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Sho       | *Blarina   | C     |     | Variety of open wooded       |
| rt-tailed | b          |       |     | habitats                     |
| Shrew\*   | revicauda* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Pygmy     | *Sorex     | R to  |     | Variety of wooded habitats   |
| Shrew     | hoyi*      | U     |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Hai       | *P         | C     |     | Open wooded areas, fields    |
| ry-tailed | arascalops |       |     |                              |
| Mole      | breweri*   |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| S         | *Condylura | U to  |     | Moist, open areas            |
| tar-nosed | cristata*  | C     |     |                              |
| Mole      |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Little    | *Myotis    | C     |     | Near waterbodies and         |
| Brown     | lucifugus* |       |     | wetlands, tree cavities      |
| Myotis    |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Northern  | *Myotis    | U to  |     | Mixed forested landscapes    |
| (Keen's)  | septen     | C     |     |                              |
| Myotis    | trionalis* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Silv      | *Las       | U to  |     | Wooded areas with loose bark |
| er-haired | ionycteris | C     |     | near waterbodies, tree       |
| bat       | no         |       |     | cavities                     |
|           | ctivagans* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Big Brown | *Eptesicus | C     |     | Wooded areas, tree cavities  |
| Bat       | fuscus*    |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Red Bat   | *Lasiurus  | R     |     | Edge of wooded areas         |
|           | borealis*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Hoary Bat | *Lasiurus  | R     |     | Wooded coniferous areas      |
|           | cinereus*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Snowshoe  | *Lepus     | A to  |     | Woodlands with dense cover,  |
| Hare\*    | a          | C     |     | clear cuts, regeneration     |
|           | mericanus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| E.        | *Tamias    | A     |     | Deciduous woodlands, ROW     |
| C         | striatus*  |       |     | edge                         |
| hipmunk\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Wo        | *Marmota   | C     |     | Woodland edges, open areas   |
| odchuck\* | monax*     |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Gray      | *Sciurus   | U     |     | Deciduous and mixed forest   |
| Squirrel  | car        |       |     |                              |
|           | olinensis* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Red       | *Ta        | A to  |     | Coniferous forests           |
| S         | miasciurus | C     |     |                              |
| quirrel\* | h          |       |     |                              |
|           | udsonicus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| N. Flying | *Glaucomys | U     |     | Deciduous and mixed forest   |
| Squirrel  | sabrinus*  |       |     | above 1,000 feet             |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Beaver\*  | *Castor    | C     |     | Slow moving waterbodies,     |
|           | c          |       |     | wetlands                     |
|           | anadensis* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Deer      | *          | C     |     | Coniferous or mixed forests, |
| Mouse     | Peromyscus |       |     | edges and clear cuts         |
|           | ma         |       |     |                              |
|           | niculatus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| S.        | *Cle       | C     |     | Cool , moist forest with     |
| R         | thrionomys |       |     | mossy rocks, clear cuts      |
| ed-backed | gapperi*   |       |     |                              |
| Vole\*    |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Meadow    | *Microtus  | C     |     | Open areas such as fields,   |
| Vole\*    | penns      |       |     | marshes and clear cuts       |
|           | ylvanicus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Muskrat   | *Ondatra   | U to  |     | Marshes and slow waterbodies |
|           | z          | C     |     | with cattail                 |
|           | ibethicus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| S. Bog    | *          | U     |     | Marshes, meadows and mixed   |
| Lemming   | Synaptomys |       |     | woodlands with duff          |
|           | cooperi*   |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| N. Bog    | *          | R     |     | Sphagnum bogs, black spruce  |
| Lemming   | Synaptomys |       |     | and hemlock areas            |
|           | borealis*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Norway    | *Rattus    | C     |     | Industrial, farm and         |
| Rat\*     | n          |       |     | residential areas            |
|           | orvegicus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| House     | *Mus       | C     |     | Buildings, fields, corncribs |
| Mouse     | musculus*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Meadow    | *Zapus     | C     |     | Moist, open meadows, shrub   |
| Jumping   | hudsonius* |       |     | swamps and wooded uplands    |
| Mouse\*   |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Woodland  | *N         | C     |     | Meadows, marshes, clear cuts |
| Jumping   | apaeozapus |       |     | and wooded areas             |
| Mouse     | insignis*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Porcupine | *Erethizon | C     |     | Mixed or coniferous forest   |
|           | dorsatum*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Coyote\*  | *Canis     | C     |     | Forest edge, existing ROW    |
|           | latrans*   |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Red Fox\* | *Vulpes    | U to  |     | Forest edge, existing ROW,   |
|           | vulpes*    | C     |     | meadows                      |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Black     | *Ursus     | U     |     | Mixed Forest and swamps      |
| Bear\*    | a          |       |     |                              |
|           | mericanus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Raccoon\* | *Procyon   | C     |     | Wooded areas along           |
|           | lotor*     |       |     | waterbodies                  |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Pine      | *Martes    | U     |     | Deciduous and coniferous     |
| Marten    | martes*    |       |     | forest                       |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Fisher\*  | *Martes    | U     |     | Mixed and coniferous forest  |
|           | pennanti*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Ermine    | *Mustela   | U     |     | Variety of brushy, wooded    |
|           | erminea*   |       |     | habitats, close to           |
|           |            |       |     | waterbodies                  |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Lo        | *Mustela   | U     |     | Open areas, forest edge,     |
| ng-tailed | frenata*   |       |     | existing ROW                 |
| weasel\*  |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Mink      | *Mustela   | U     |     | Riparian and wetland areas   |
|           | vison*     |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Striped   | *Mephitis  | C     |     | Open woodlands, meadows      |
| Skunk     | mephitis*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| River     | *Lutra     | U     |     | Riparian areas and wetlands  |
| Otter     | c          |       |     |                              |
|           | anadensis* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Lynx      | *Felis     | R     |     | Extensive forest             |
|           | lynx*      |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Bobcat    | *Lynx      | U     |     | Mixed and deciduous forest,  |
|           | rufus*     |       |     | brushy fields, swamps        |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Whi       | *          | C     |     | Forest edge, coniferous      |
| te-tailed | Odocoileus |       |     | swamps                       |
| deer      | vi         |       |     |                              |
|           | rginianus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Moose     | *Alces     | C     |     | Emergent wetlands,           |
|           | alces*     |       |     | waterbodies edges, forest    |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| **BIRDS** |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Common    | *Gavia     | U     | B   | Large waterbodies            |
| Loon      | immer*     |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Pi        | *          | U     | B   | Ponds, marshes with heavy    |
| ed-billed | Podilymbus |       |     | emergent vegetation          |
| Grebe     | podiceps*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| American  | *Botaurus  | U     | B   | Marshes, bogs, and           |
| Bittern   | len        |       |     | waterbodies                  |
|           | tiginosus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Great     | *Ardea     | C     | B   | Shallow shores of marshes    |
| Blue      | herodias*  |       |     | and waterbodies              |
| Heron\*   |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Green     | *Butorides | U     | B   | Waterbodies and shrub        |
| Heron     | virescens* |       |     | wetlands                     |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Canada    | *Branta    | U     | PR  | Wetlands and waterbodies     |
| Goose\*   | c          |       |     |                              |
|           | anadensis* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Wood      | *Aix       | U to  | B   | Shallow water ponds, lakes   |
| Duck\*    | sponsa*    | C     |     | and wetlands near wooded     |
|           |            |       |     | areas                        |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Gre       | *Anus      | U     | B   | Ponds, lakes and marshes     |
| en-winged | crecca*    |       |     |                              |
| Teal      |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| American  | *Anus      | C     | PR  | Emergent and shrub wetlands, |
| Black     | rubripes*  |       |     | flowages, rivers and lakes   |
| Duck\*    |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Mallard\* | *Anus      | C     | PR  | Emergent and shrub wetlands, |
|           | plat       |       |     | rivers and lakes             |
|           | yrhynchos* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Ri        | *Aythya    | C     | B   | Marshes, bogs, and flowages  |
| ng-necked | collaris*  |       |     |                              |
| Duck      |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Common    | *Bucephala | C     | B   | Ponds, lakes and rivers near |
| Go        | clangula*  |       |     | wooded areas                 |
| ldeneye\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Hooded    | *          | U     | B   | Wooded ponds, lakes and      |
| Merganser | Lophodytes |       |     | rivers                       |
|           | c          |       |     |                              |
|           | ucullatus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Common    | *Mergus    | C     | B   | Rivers and lakes             |
| Me        | merganser* |       |     |                              |
| rganser\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Red       | *Mergus    | C     | B   | Rivers and lakes             |
| -breasted | serrator*  |       |     |                              |
| Me        |            |       |     |                              |
| rganser\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Osprey\*  | *Pandion   | C     | B   | Near large waterbodies       |
|           | haliaetus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Bald      | *          | U     | B   | Near large waterbodies       |
| Eagle\*   | Haliaeetus |       |     |                              |
|           | leuc       |       |     |                              |
|           | ocephalus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Northern  | *Circus    | U     | B   | Meadows, emergent wetlands,  |
| Harrier   | cyaneus*   |       |     | bogs                         |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Shar      | *Accipiter | U     | B   | Isolated forested areas,     |
| p-shinned | striatus*  |       | to  | edges                        |
| Hawk      |            |       | PR  |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Cooper's  | *Accipiter | U     | B   | Extensive forests            |
| Hawk      | cooperii*  |       | to  |                              |
|           |            |       | PR  |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Northern  | *Accipiter | R     | B   | Extensive forests            |
| Goshawk   | gentilis*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Red-s     | *Buteo     | U     | B   | Woodlands, forested wetlands |
| houldered | lineatus*  |       |     |                              |
| Hawk      |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Bro       | *Buteo     | U     | B   | Woodlands, forested wetlands |
| ad-winged | pl         |       |     |                              |
| Hawk\*    | atypterus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| R         | *Buteo     | U     | B   | Woodlands, ROW corridors,    |
| ed-tailed | ja         |       | to  | old fields                   |
| Hawk\*    | maicensis* |       | PR  |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Rou       | *Buteo     | R     | W   | Open fields, marshes         |
| gh-legged | lagopus*   |       |     |                              |
| Hawk      |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| American  | *Falco     | U     | B   | ROW edges, old fields near   |
| Kestrel   | s          |       |     | tree cavities                |
|           | parverius* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Merlin    | *Falco     | U to  | B   | Open forests adjacent to     |
|           | co         | C     |     | open areas for foraging      |
|           | lumbarius* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Peregrine | *Falco     | U     | B   | Rocky cliffs with ledges     |
| Falcon    | p          |       |     | overlooking waterbodies,     |
|           | eregrinus* |       |     | lakes, with a abundance of   |
|           |            |       |     | birds                        |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Wild      | *Meleagris | C     |     | Varied: wooded areas for     |
| Turkey    | gallopavo* |       |     | roosting, open areas for     |
|           |            |       |     | foraging                     |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Ruffed    | *Bonasa    | C     | PR  | Forested areas with          |
| Grouse\*  | umbellus*  |       |     | herbaceous openings, ROW     |
|           |            |       |     | edges                        |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Spruce    | *F         | U     | PR  | Dense interior coniferous    |
| Grouse\*  | alcipennis |       |     | forest, cedar bogs           |
|           | c          |       |     |                              |
|           | anadensis* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Virginia  | *Rallus    | U     | B   | Marshes and cattail swamps   |
| Rail      | limicola)* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Sora      | *Porzana   | U     | B   | Marshes and cattail swamps   |
|           | carolina*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Spotted   | *Actitis   | C     | B   | Edges of lakes and rivers    |
| Sa        | macularia* |       |     |                              |
| ndpiper\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Killdeer  | *          | U     | B   | Barren areas, pastures,      |
|           | Charadrius |       |     | gravel pits                  |
|           | vociferus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Common    | *Gallinago | C     | B   | Marshes, emergent bogs       |
| Snipe     | gallinago* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| American  | *Scolopax  | C     | B   | Moist woodlands, alder       |
| W         | minor*     |       |     | thickets                     |
| oodcock\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Herring   | *Larus     | U     | B   | Large waterbodies            |
| Gull\*    | a          |       |     |                              |
|           | rgentatus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Rock      | *Columba   | C     | PR  | Near human dwellings         |
| Dove\*    | livia*     |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Mourning  | *Zenaida   | C     | B   | ROW corridors, open          |
| Dove\*    | macroura*  |       | to  | woodlands, backyards         |
|           |            |       | PR  |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Bla       | *Coccyzus  | U     | B   | Brushy areas, open woodlands |
| ck-billed | erythr     |       |     |                              |
| Cuckoo    | opthalmus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Great     | *Bubo      | U     | PR  | Interior woodlands, forest   |
| Horned    | vi         |       |     |                              |
| Owl       | rginianus* |       |     | edges, wetlands              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Barred    | *Strix     | U     | PR  | Forested wetlands,           |
| Owl       | varia*     |       |     | bottomlands                  |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| L         | *Asio      | U     | B   | Dense (usually coniferous)   |
| ong-eared | otus*      |       |     | forests or groves            |
| Owl       |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Boreal    | *Aegolius  | U     | W   | Dense coniferous and mixed   |
| Owl       | funereus*  |       |     | hardwood forests             |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Northern  | *Aegolius  | U     | PR  | Woodlands, edges             |
| Saw-whet  | acadicus*  |       |     |                              |
| Owl       |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Common    | *          | U     | B   | Open woodlands, railroad     |
| nighthawk | Chordeiles |       |     | beds, clearings              |
|           | minor*     |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Chimney   | *Chaetura  | U to  | B   | Near human dwellings         |
| Swift\*   | pelagica*  | C     |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Ruby      | *A         | C     | B   | Woodlands, edges, swamps     |
| -throated | rchilochus |       |     |                              |
| Hu        | colubris*  |       |     |                              |
| mmingbird |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Belted    | *Ceryle    | C     | B   | Waterbodies, banks of        |
| Kin       | alcyon*    |       |     | waterbodies                  |
| gfisher\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Yello     | *S         | C     | B   | Woodlands, edges             |
| w-bellied | phyrapicus |       |     |                              |
| Sa        | varius*    |       |     |                              |
| psucker\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Downy     | *Picoides  | C     | PR  | Forests                      |
| Woo       | pubescens* |       |     |                              |
| dpecker\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Hairy     | *Picoides  | C     | PR  | Forests                      |
| W         | villosus*  |       |     |                              |
| oodpecker |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| T         | *Picoides  | R     | PR  | Coniferous forest, clear     |
| hree-toed | dorsalis*  |       |     | cuts with dead timber        |
| W         |            |       |     |                              |
| oodpecker |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Bla       | *Picoides  | R     | PR  | Coniferous forest, clear     |
| ck-backed | arcticus*  |       |     | cuts with dead timber        |
| W         |            |       |     |                              |
| oodpecker |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Northern  | *Colaptes  | C     | B   | Open woodlands, edges, clear |
| Flicker\* | auratus*   |       |     | cuts                         |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Pileated  | *Dryocopus | U     | PR  | Interior second growth       |
| Woo       | pileatus*  |       |     | forest, forested wetlands    |
| dpecker\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Ol        | *Contopus  | U     | B   | Spruce forests, bog edges    |
| ive-sided | cooperi*   |       |     |                              |
| Fly       |            |       |     |                              |
| catcher\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Eastern   | *Contopus  | U     | B   | Forest interior              |
| Wood      | virens*    |       |     |                              |
| Pewee     |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Alder     | *Empidonax | U     | B   | Shrub wetlands with openings |
| F         | alnorum*   |       |     |                              |
| lycatcher |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Least     | *Empidonax | U     | B   | Deciduous woodlands, edges,  |
| Fly       | minimus*   |       |     | forested wetlands            |
| catcher\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Eastern   | *Sayornis  | U     | B   | Wooded or shrub areas near   |
| Phoebe    | phoebe*    |       |     | waterbodies                  |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Great     | *Myiarchus | U     | B   | Woodlands, forested swamps   |
| crested   | crinitus*  |       |     |                              |
| F         |            |       |     |                              |
| lycatcher |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Eastern   | *Tyrannus  | U     | B   | Open woodlands, shrub        |
| Kingbird  | tyrannus*  |       |     | wetlands                     |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Horned    | *          | U     | W   | Open areas, fields, pastures |
| Lark      | Eremophila |       |     |                              |
|           | alpestris* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Tree      | *T         | C     | B   | Open areas near water,       |
| Swallow\* | achycineta |       |     | beaver flowages              |
|           | bicolor*   |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Bank      | *Riparia   | U     | B   | Riverbanks, gravel pits      |
| Swallow\* | riparia*   |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Barn      | *Hirundo   | C     | B   | Near farms, pastures         |
| Swallow\* | rustica*   |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Blue      | *          | C     | PR  | Woodlands, towns             |
| Jay\*     | Cyanocitta |       |     |                              |
|           | cristata*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Gray      | *          | U     | PR  | Coniferous forest, cedar     |
| Jay\*     | Perisoreus |       |     | bogs                         |
|           | c          |       |     |                              |
|           | anadensis* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| American  | *Corvus    | C     | PR  | Woodlands, ROW corridors     |
| Crow\*    | brach      |       |     |                              |
|           | yrhynchos* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Common    | *Corvus    | C     | PR  | Open woodlands, clear cuts   |
| Raven\*   | corax*     |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Bla       | *Poecile   | C     | PR  | Woodlands, towns             |
| ck-capped | atr        |       |     |                              |
| Ch        | icapillus* |       |     |                              |
| ickadee\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Boreal    | *Poecile   | U     | PR  | Coniferous forest, spruce    |
| Chickadee | h          |       |     | bogs                         |
|           | udsonicus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| White     | *Sitta     | C     | PR  | Deciduous woodlands          |
| -breasted | car        |       |     |                              |
| N         | olinensis* |       |     |                              |
| uthatch\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Red       | *Sitta     | C     | PR  | Coniferous Forest            |
| -breasted | c          |       |     |                              |
| N         | anadensis* |       |     |                              |
| uthatch\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Brown     | *Certhia   | U     | B   | Dense woodlands              |
| Creeper   | americana* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| House     | *T         | U     | B   | Near human dwellings, brushy |
| Wren      | roglodytes |       |     | clearings                    |
|           | aedon*     |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Winter    | *T         | C     | B   | Dense coniferous             |
| Wren      | roglodytes |       |     | undergrowth, bog edges       |
|           | tr         |       |     |                              |
|           | oglodytes* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Marsh     | *C         | U     | B   | Marshes                      |
| Wren      | istothorus |       |     |                              |
|           | palustris* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Golde     | *Regulus   | C     | B   | Coniferous forest            |
| n-crowned | satrapa*   |       |     |                              |
| Kinglet\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Rub       | *Regulus   | U     | B   | Coniferous forest, edges     |
| y-crowned | calendula* |       |     |                              |
| Kinglet   |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Eastern   | *Sialia    | U     | B   | Open woodlands, clearings,   |
| Bluebird  | sialis*    |       |     | edges                        |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Veery\*   | *Catharus  | U     | B   | Moist deciduous woodlands    |
|           | f          |       |     |                              |
|           | uscescens* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| S         | *Catharus  | U     | B   | Coniferous forest, near      |
| wainson's | ustulatus* |       |     | water                        |
| Thrush    |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Hermit    | *Catharus  | U     | B   | Wooded swamps, coniferous    |
| Thrush    | guttatus*  |       |     | edges                        |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| American  | *Turdus    | C     | B   | Open woodlands, clearings    |
| Robin\*   | mi         |       |     | pastures                     |
|           | gratorius* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Gray      | *Dumetella | C     | B   | Brushy edges, shrub          |
| Catbird\* | car        |       |     | wetlands, clear cuts         |
|           | olinensis* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Northern  | *Mimus     | U     | PR  | Near towns in brush          |
| Mo        | po         |       |     |                              |
| ckingbird | lyglottos* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Cedar     | *          | C     | B   | Open woodlands, open         |
| Waxwing\* | Bombycilla |       |     | orchards, towns              |
|           | cedrorum*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Northern  | *Lanius    | R     | W   | Open woodlands, brushy areas |
| Shrike    | excubitor* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| European  | *Sturnus   | C     | PR  | Towns, farms and fields      |
| S         | vulgaris*  |       |     |                              |
| tarling\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Bl        | *Vireo     | C     | B   | Mixed woodlands with dense   |
| ue-Headed | s          |       |     | understory                   |
| (         | olitarius* |       |     |                              |
| Solitary) |            |       |     |                              |
| Vireo\*   |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Warbling  | *Vireo     | U     | B   | Open woodlands               |
| Vireo     | gilvus*    |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Phi       | *Vireo     | U     | B   | Forests, edges, ROW          |
| ladelphia | phila      |       |     | corridors                    |
| Vireo     | delphicus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Red-eyed  | *Vireo     | C     | B   | Open deciduous forest        |
| Vireo     | olivaceus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Tennessee | *Vermivora | C     | B   | ROW edges, open woodlands,   |
| Warbler\* | peregrina* |       |     | dense shrubs                 |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Nashville | *Vermivora | C     | B   | Moist deciduous forest,      |
| Warbler   | ru         |       |     | edges                        |
| \*        | ficapilla* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Northern  | *Parula    | C     | B   | Mix forest with old man's    |
| Parula    | americana* |       |     | beard, forested wetlands     |
| Warbler\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Yellow    | *Dendroica | C     | B   | Shrub and emergent wetlands, |
| Warbler\* | petechia*  |       |     | brushy areas along           |
|           |            |       |     | waterbodies                  |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Chest     | *Dendroica | C     | B   | Regeneration areas, clear    |
| nut-sided | pen        |       |     | cuts, ROW corridors          |
| Warbler\* | sylvanica* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Black     | *Dendroica | U     | B   | Mixed or deciduous forests   |
| -throated | cae        |       |     | with dense undergrowth       |
| Blue      | rulescens* |       |     |                              |
| Warbler   |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Yell      | *Dendroica | C     | B   | Coniferous forest, edges     |
| ow-rumped | coronata*  |       |     |                              |
| Warbler\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Black     | *Dendroica | C     | B   | Mixed forest, forested       |
| -throated | virens*    |       |     | wetlands                     |
| Green     |            |       |     |                              |
| Warbler\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Palm      | *Dendroica | U     | B   | Bogs and bog edges           |
| Warbler   | palmarum*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Bay       | *Dendroica | U     | B   | Coniferous forest,           |
| -breasted | castanea*  |       |     | coniferous shrub areas       |
| Warbler   |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Bl        | *Mniotilta | C     | B   | Forest and second growth     |
| ack-white | varia*     |       |     |                              |
| Warbler\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| American  | *Setophaga | C     | B   | Deciduous woodlands,         |
| Redstart  | ruticilla* |       |     | forested wetlands            |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| O         | *Seiurus   | C     | B   | Mature deciduous forest, no  |
| venbird\* | au         |       |     | undergrowth                  |
|           | rocapilla* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Northern  | *Seiurus   | U     | B   | Forested wetlands near       |
| Wa        | noveb      |       |     | waterbodies                  |
| terthrush | oracensis* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Mourning  | *Oporornis | C     | B   | ROW corridors, clear-cuts    |
| Warbler\* | Phi        |       |     |                              |
|           | ladelphia* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Common    | *          | C     | B   | Shrub wetlands, brushy areas |
| Yello     | Geothlypis |       |     |                              |
| wthroat\* | trichas*   |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Wilson's  | *Wilsonia  | U     | B   | Bogs, shrub wetlands         |
| Warbler\* | pusilla*   |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Canada    | *Wilsonia  | U     | B   | Moist forest with            |
| Warbler   | c          |       |     | undergrowth, forested        |
|           | anadensis* |       |     | wetlands                     |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Rose      | *          | C     | B   | Deciduous forest             |
| -breasted | Pheucticus |       |     |                              |
| G         | lud        |       |     |                              |
| rosbeak\* | ovicianus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Indigo    | *Passerina | C     | B   | Forest edges and openings,   |
| Bunting\* | cyanea*    |       |     | ROW corridors                |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Ruf       | *Pipilo    | U     | B   | Forest edges and openings,   |
| ous-sided | erythro    |       |     | ROW corridors                |
| Towhee    | phthalmus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Chipping  | *Spizella  | C     | B   | Towns, farms, fields         |
| Sparrow   | passerina* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Savannah  | *P         | U     | B   | Meadows, fields              |
| Sparrow   | asserculus |       |     |                              |
|           | sandwiche* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Song      | *Melospiza | C     | B   | Brushy fields, shrub         |
| Sparrow\* | melodia*   |       |     | wetlands, towns              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Swamp     | *Melospiza | U     | B   | Shrub and emergent wetlands, |
| Sparrow\* | georgiana* |       |     | waterbodies edges            |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| White     | *Z         | C     | B   | Brushy areas, clear-cuts,    |
| -throated | onotrichia |       |     | bogs                         |
| Sparrow\* | a          |       |     |                              |
|           | lbicollis* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Dark-eyed | *Junco     | C     | PR  | Forest, clearings, ROW edges |
| Junco\*   | hyemalis*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Snow      | *Ple       | U     | W   | Fields, open areas           |
| Bunting\* | ctrophenax |       |     |                              |
|           | nivalis*   |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Bobolink  | *          | U     | B   | Hay fields, meadows          |
|           | Dolichonyx |       |     |                              |
|           | o          |       |     |                              |
|           | ryzivorus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| R         | *Agelaius  | C     | B   | Marshes, swamps, hay fields  |
| ed-winged | p          |       |     |                              |
| Bl        | hoeniceus* |       |     |                              |
| ackbird\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Rusty     | *Euphagus  | U     | B   | Shrub wetlands, bogs         |
| Blackbird | carolinus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Common    | *Quiscalus | C     | B   | Open areas, farms, wetlands  |
| Grackle\* | quiscula*  |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Bro       | *Molothrus | U     | B   | Open woodlands, ROW          |
| wn-headed | ater*      |       |     | corridors                    |
| Cowbird   |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Eastern   | *Sturnella | U     | B   | Fields, farmland             |
| M         | magna*     |       |     |                              |
| eadowlark |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Baltimore | *Icterus   | U     | B   | Open woodland near           |
| Oriole    | galbula*   |       |     | waterbodies                  |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Pine      | *Pinicola  | U     | W   | Coniferous forest and forest |
| Grosbeak  | e          |       |     | edges                        |
|           | nucleator* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Purple    | *          | C     | PR  | Coniferous forest edge,      |
| Finch\*   | Carpodacus |       |     | parks, towns                 |
|           | purpureus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Red       | *Loxia     | C     | PR  | Coniferous forest            |
| Cr        | cu         |       |     |                              |
| ossbill\* | rvirostra* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Whi       | *Loxia     | C     | PR  | Coniferous forest            |
| te-winged | l          |       |     |                              |
| Cr        | eucoptera* |       |     |                              |
| ossbill\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Common    | *Carduelis | U     | W   | Alder swamps, birches,       |
| Redpoll   | flammea*   |       |     | fields                       |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Hoary     | *Carduelis | R     | W   | Fields, birch and alder      |
| Redpoll   | h          |       |     | thickets                     |
|           | ornemanni* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| Pine      | *Carduelis | C     | PR  | Coniferous forest, fields    |
| Siskin\*  | pinus*     |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| American  | *Carduelis | C     | PR  | Fields, alder and birches    |
| Go        | tristis*   |       |     |                              |
| ldfinch\* |            |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| EveningG  | *Cocc      | C     | PR  | Coniferous forest            |
| rosbeak\* | othraustes |       |     |                              |
|           | ve         |       |     |                              |
|           | spertinus* |       |     |                              |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+
| House     | *Passer    | C     | PR  | Villages, farms, cities,     |
| Sparrow\* | d          |       |     | parks, avoids heavily        |
|           | omesticus* |       |     | forested areas               |
+-----------+------------+-------+-----+------------------------------+

^1^ A=Abundant; C=Common; U=Uncommon; R=Rare

^2^ B=Breeding in Project Area; PR=Permanent Resident; W=Wintering in
Project Area

\* Observed in the vicinity of the Project during 2002, 1997 and 1996
field surveys

**APPENDIX 7-2**

**AGENCY CORRESPONDENCE**

**APPENDIX 7-3**

**SIGNIFICANT WILDLIFE HABITAT MAPS FOR THE PROJECT AREA**

**APPENDIX 7-4**

**WATERBODIES CROSSED BY THE NRI PROJECT**