Document: NRC Regulatory Guide
Document ID: f0baf50b-5bb7-4783-b2f9-9586e09c97e1
Document Type: regulatory_guide
Title: Preparation of Environmental Reports for Nuclear Power Stations + HISTORY - HISTORY 02/2017 – DG-4026 , Proposed Revision 3 09/2014 – Periodic Review of Revision 2 – Revise (Rev. 3)
Source: NRC Regulatory Guide Division 4
Source URL: https://www.nrc.gov/docs/ML1611/ML16116A068.pdf
Revision Date: 2023-06
Chapter: 
Section ID: RG-4.2
CFR Part: 
CFR Title: 

Content:
of modeled groundwater withdrawal isopleths over terrestrial habitat maps may be helpful if withdrawals could be capable of causing substantial habitat modifications. Information should be consistent with similar information presented in the aquatic ecology and hydrology sections of the ER. Wetlands Operating a nuclear power plant does not normally involve filling wetlands. However, wetlands are a habitat type that should be addressed together with upland (non-wetland) terrestrial habitat types. Particular attention should be paid to the possibility that groundwater withdrawals could affect the hydrology of nearby wetlands and that surface-water withdrawals could affect nearby shorelines and wetlands fringing water sources. Wildlife The ER should include a discussion of the following potential effects on terrestrial wildlife during operations: • Effects of operational noise (e.g., mechanical noise, vehicular noise, and noise from cooling towers) on terrestrial wildlife. Estimated noise isopleth overlays may be helpful if noise levels exceeding 85 dBA are anticipated in areas of high-quality habitat. • Loss or injury of wildlife caused by traffic. Wildlife movement and migration patterns over the surrounding landscape should be considered. The discussion should remain consistent with traffic-related discussions presented elsewhere in the ER. • Effects on terrestrial wildlife from maintaining transmission-line rights-of-way and other exterior areas and corridors. • Injury to birds and bats colliding with tall structures (e.g., natural draft cooling towers, communication towers, and electric transmission lines). • Electrocution of birds and other wildlife by transmission lines and other electrical facilities. DG-4026, Page 85 • Effects on terrestrial wildlife from electromagnetic radiation generated at switchyards and along electric transmission lines. Important Species and Habitats Applicants should carefully consider which species and habitats that meet