ML25297A167
| ML25297A167 | |
| Person / Time | |
|---|---|
| Site: | 05000614, 99902117 |
| Issue date: | 10/24/2025 |
| From: | Long Mott Energy, Sargent & Lundy |
| To: | Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation |
| Shared Package | |
| ML25297A164 | List: |
| References | |
| 2025-PLM-NRC-012 | |
| Download: ML25297A167 (1) | |
Text
This document contains confidential or proprietary information. It shall not be reproduced, discussed, reviewed, or released, in whole or in part, to any party other than the intended recipient(s) and their agents with a need to know such information unless Sargent & Lundy, L.L.C. has provided written permission otherwise. ©Sargent & Lundy, L.L.C. 2024 ISSUE
SUMMARY
AND APPROVAL PAGE Project No. A13766.119 Transmittal No. SL-XEN-2024-135 August 20, 2024 X-energy LLC Proposed Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report August 2024 This Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 for the proposed site at the Union Carbide Corporation Seadrift Operations site (the Dow Chemical Corporation Facility) in Seadrift, Calhoun County, Texas has been reviewed for compliance with applicable technical and contractual documents and is approved for use.
The report was prepared by WSP USA Environment and Infrastructure, Inc. (WSP) under WSP project number 325223319.
Document No.
Rev. Purpose Date Sections Affected TC#: 009793 WSPDC#: WSP-XES-09 1
Updated with Spring 2024 aquatics survey data 08/05/2024 All Reviewed by Julianna Crumlish Senior Environmental Associate Approved by Greg Boswell Consultant I Julianna Crumlish Digitally signed by Julianna Crumlish Date: 2024.08.20 11:51:31 -05'00' Digitally signed by Greg Boswell Date: 2024.08.20 13:26:06
-04'00'
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report Revision 1 Prepared for:
X-energy, LLC Submitted to:
Sargent & Lundy, LLC Prepared by:
WSP USA Environment & Infrastructure Inc.
15933 Clayton Road Suite 110 Ballwin, Missouri 63011 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 August 2024
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 i
REPORT APPROVAL Project Name:
Project Long Mott Licensing Project Project Number:
325223319 Site:
Long Mott Site Location:
Calhoun County, Texas We have reviewed and approve of the Ecological Resources Technical Report for the above referenced project. Changes to this technical memorandum shall be documented in writing and approved.
WSP Subject Matter Technical Lead Matthew Basler Date:
8/5/2024 WSP ER Project Manager William Elzinga Date:
8/5/2024 M tth B
l
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 ii REVISION LOG Project Name:
Project Long Mott Licensing Project Project Number:
325223319 Site:
Long Mott Site Location:
Calhoun County, Texas Revision Number Revision Date Nature of Revision Approved by 0
3/25/2024 Issued for use W. Elzinga 1
8/5/2024 Inclusion of spring 2024 aquatics survey data and updated 2024 IPac/TPWD lists W. Elzinga
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 iii T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S REVISION LOG.......................................................................................... ii Abbreviations and Acronyms................................................................viii 1
Introduction........................................................................................9 1.1 Project Site................................................................................................................9 1.2 Purpose................................................................................................................... 10 1.3 Regulatory Basis..................................................................................................... 10 1.4 Scope...................................................................................................................... 10 2
Methods and Technical Approach....................................................12 2.1 Desktop Analysis.................................................................................................... 12 2.2 Terrestrial Resources.............................................................................................. 12 2.2.1 Vegetation Assessment.................................................................................................12 2.2.2 Terrestrial Wildlife Assessment......................................................................................12 2.3 Aquatic Resources.................................................................................................. 14 2.3.1 Fish Sampling................................................................................................................14 2.3.2 Macroinvertebrate Sampling..........................................................................................14 2.4 Important Species and Habitats.............................................................................. 14 3
Results.............................................................................................16 3.1 Terrestrial Resources.............................................................................................. 16 3.1.1 Vegetation.....................................................................................................................16 3.1.2 Wildlife...........................................................................................................................28 3.2 Aquatic Resources.................................................................................................. 41 3.2.1 Fish...............................................................................................................................41 3.3 Important Species and Habitats.............................................................................. 51 3.3.1 State and Federally Listed Species................................................................................51 3.3.2 Additional Important Species and Habitats....................................................................56
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 iv 4
Summary.........................................................................................59 5
References......................................................................................61
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 v
T A B L E S Table 3-1 Land Cover within the Project Long Mott Project Site and Vicinity.............................16 Table 3-2 Vascular Plant Species of the Project Long Mott Project Site....................................18 Table 3-3 Avifaunal Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Winter 2023........................................................................................................................31 Table 3-4 Avifaunal Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Spring 2023........................................................................................................................33 Table 3-5 Avifaunal Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Summer 2023..........................................................................................................35 Table 3-6 Avifaunal Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Fall 2023........................................................................................................................37 Table 3-7 Mammal Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Winter 2023........................................................................................................................39 Table 3-8 Mammal Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Spring 2023........................................................................................................................39 Table 3-9 Mammal Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Summer 2023........................................................................................................................39 Table 3-10 Mammal Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Fall 2023........................................................................................................................40 Table 3-11 Herpetofauna Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Spring 2023.............................................................................................................40 Table 3-12 Herpetafauna Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Summer 2023..........................................................................................................41 Table 3-13 Herpetafauna Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Fall 2023..................................................................................................................41 Table 3-14 Fish Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Summer 2023........................................................................................................................42 Table 3-15 Fish Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Fall 2023.....43 Table 3-16 Fish Species Observed in or near the Long Mott Project Site, Winter 2024.............44 Table 3-17 Fish Species Observed in or near the Long Mott Project Site, Spring 2024.............46 Table 3-18 Macroinvertebrates Encountered in the Vicinity of the Long Mott Project Site by Water Body, Fall 2023.............................................................................................47 Table 3-19 Macroinvertebrates Encountered in the Vicinity of the Long Mott Project Site by Water Body, Spring 2024.........................................................................................49 Table 3-20 Shellfish Species Encountered in Aquatic Ecology Sampling..................................51
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 vi Table 3-21 Protected Species Potentially Occurring within or near the Project Long Mott Project Site..............................................................................................................51 Table 3-22: Species for which Essential Fish Habitat Exists in Guadalupe Bay within the Vicinity of the Long Mott Project Site.......................................................................56
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 vii F I G U R E S Figure 1-1 Project Site Figure 2-1 Land Cover within the Project Area Figure 2-2 Ecological Resources Survey Routes Figure 2-3 Aquatic Ecology Resource Survey Locations Figure 3-1 Land Cover within the Project Vicinity Figure 3-2 Delineated WOTUS Features within the Project Area A P P E N D I C E S Appendix A Figures Appendix B Photographic Log
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 viii A B B R E V I A T I O N S A N D A C R O N Y M S CFR Code of Federal Regulations EFH Essential Fish Habitat EIS Environmental Impact Statement ER Environmental Report ESA Endangered Species Act GBRA Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority IPaC Information for Planning and Conservation NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NLCD National Landcover Database NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NRC U.S Nuclear Regulatory Commission Project Site Project Long Mott Site QAPD Quality Assurance Project Document RPCT Rare Plant Communities of Texas SDO Dow Seadrift Operations SOP Standard Operating Procedure TPWD Texas Parks and Wildlife Department TCEQ Texas Commission on Environmental Quality m
micrometer USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service WOTUS Waters of the U.S.
WSP WSP USA Environment & Infrastructure Inc.
X-energy X energy, LLC
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 9
1 Introduction WSP USA Environment & Infrastructure Inc. (WSP), was contracted by X-energy, LLC (X-energy) to perform a series of studies in support of the Environmental Report (ER) for the Proposed Project Long Mott. Project Long Mott is applying for a construction permit under Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 50 to construct a 4-unit Xe-100 plant configured for cogeneration of steam and electricity. The U.S Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is expected to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in support of the NRCs decision to issue a license for the proposed facility.
The technical analyses summarized in this report were conducted in support of the preparation of the ER for Project Long Mott. This report summarizes analyses and measurements to document terrestrial and aquatic vegetation and wildlife at the proposed facility. Field investigations conducted within the Project Site were performed in accordance with the requirements of the following guiding documents:
Project Long Mott Environmental Report, Standard Operating Procedures for Field Data Collection Revision 2 (WSP 2023a).
Project Long Mott Environmental Report, Quality Assurance Project Document Revision
- 2. (WSP 2023b).
WSP field studies included in the ER standard operating procedures intend to sufficiently characterize baseline conditions for certain resources to allow for a complete and thorough environmental review relevant to the proposed action, as outlined in NUREG-1555 and Regulatory Guide 4.2, Revision 3 - "Preparation of Environmental Reports for Nuclear Power Stations.
1.1 Project Site The Project Long Mott Site (Project Site) consists of approximately 1,548 acres in Calhoun County, Texas and is adjacent to the existing Dow Seadrift Operations (SDO) site (Figure 1-1).
The Project Site is located within the Northern Humid Gulf Coastal Prairies Ecoregion within the Western Gulf Coastal Plain of southeast Texas. Northern Humid Gulf Coastal Prairies include gently sloping coastal plain underlaid by quaternary-aged deltaic clays, silts, and sands.
Originally, dominant vegetation consisted of maritime woodlands and grasslands supporting switchgrass, brownseed paspalum, little bluestem, yellow Indiangrass, and gulf muhly.
However, much of the area is currently dominated by farmland (Griffith et al., 2007).
Much of the Project Site was in corn production at the time of the field review. The western portion of the Project Site included areas within the existing Dow SDO site, and the eastern portion of the Project Site consists of cultivated crops.
NUREG-1555 defines "vicinity" as a radius of 6 miles from the site, and "Region" as a 50-mile radius of the site, excluding the "the site and vicinity. For the purposes of the field ecology investigations and the resulting ER, the vicinity constitutes the area within a 6-mile radius from
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 10 the site center point, and the region will consist of the area within a 50-mile radius from the site center point.
1.2 Purpose The purpose of this report is to summarize the methodologies and results of the studies undertaken in the Project Site and Project Vicinity in conjunction with the preparation of the ER for Project Long Mott. Specifically, surveys were conducted to document terrestrial vegetation and wildlife, including threatened and endangered species and the potential occurrence of their preferred habitats, resident plant communities, and wildlife populations (including important species and their habitats).
1.3 Regulatory Basis The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires federal agencies to integrate environmental values into their decision-making processes by considering the environmental impacts of their proposed actions and reasonable alternatives to those actions. The NRC Staff is required by portions of 10 CFR 51 (Environmental Protection Regulations for Domestic Licensing and Related Regulatory Functions) Subpart A (NEPA - Regulations Implementing Section) to assess project environmental impacts.
Project Long Mott is applying for a Construction Permit from the NRC for construction and operation of the proposed commercial Xe-100 small Modular Reactor Regulatory Guide 4.2 Revision 3. Revision 3 provides guidance to applicants for the format and content of ERs that are submitted as part of an application for a permit, license, or other authorization to site, construct, and/or operate a new nuclear power plant. NUREG-1555, Environmental Standard Review Plan: Standard Review Plans for Environmental Reviews for Nuclear Power Plants, is used by applicants to further inform the content of the ER and provides the criteria used by the NRC staff for reviewing ERs submitted with nuclear power plant license applications. Pursuant to the NRCs review of the ER, NRC may prepare an EIS in support of the agencys decision to issue a permit for the proposed facility.
1.4 Scope Ecological work elements performed are required to satisfy regulatory requirements for documenting and characterizing environmental conditions of the Project Area and Project Vicinity, and in evaluating potential construction, operational, and decommissioning phase effects.
Work conducted consisted of the collection of seasonal ecological field data descriptive of threatened and endangered species and the potential occurrence of their preferred habitats, resident plant communities and wildlife populations (including important species and habitats as defined in NUREG-1555 Section 2.4). The results of the field surveys will be used to characterize terrestrial and aquatic wildlife and terrestrial vegetative communities in the Project Site and Project Vicinity to provide a basis for evaluating potential project impacts due to construction and operation of Project Long Mott.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 11 This report presents the findings of terrestrial field surveys from winter, spring, summer, and fall 2023. To support the timely submittal of the ER, aquatic ecology field surveys included in Revision 0 of this report were findings from summer 2023 and a portion of fall 2023. This version, Revision 1, includes the remaining results from fall 2023, winter 2024, and spring 2024 aquatic ecology surveys.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 12 2
Methods and Technical Approach 2.1 Desktop Analysis Prior to the terrestrial ecological field surveys, biologists reviewed existing literature including the Victoria Early Site Permit ER, and information from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Information for Planning and Conservation (IPaC) system, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Calhoun County rare species list, USFWS National Wetland Inventory, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and National Landcover Database (NLCD).
2.2 Terrestrial Resources 2.2.1 Vegetation Assessment The vegetation assessment included pedestrian surveys to record plant species encountered in the Project Site, characterize plant communities present, and verify land cover. To account for seasonal variability of the vegetation within the site, surveys were conducted in the spring (May 22-25, 2023), summer (August 15-17, 2023), and fall (November 7-8, 2023). No vegetation surveys were conducted during the dormant winter months.
In order to effectively characterize plant communities in the Project Site, the relative abundance of each species occurring within each distinctive NLCD landcover type was assessed. Within individual landcover types, each unique plant community observed was described. Plant community descriptions were based on dominant and characteristic species observed.
Landcover types and parcels assessed as part of the vegetation assessment are illustrated in Figure 2-1. Relative abundance of each species recorded through a terrestrial meandering approach within the Project Site was assessed qualitatively. The terrestrial meandering approach provided characterization of plant communities within available on-site habitats. Plant species abundance was visually scored for each vegetation layer (overstory, midstory, herbaceous, woody vine) based on the professional judgement of the field biology team using the following commonly used relative abundance:
x A: abundant (the dominant plants throughout the study area) x C: common (locally abundant or frequently encountered) x O: occasional (occasionally encountered, or locally common but absent or infrequent across much of the study area) x U: uncommon (infrequently encountered) x R: rare (very few plants encountered)
Qualitative characteristics of habitats near the Project Site and their associated flora were also recorded opportunistically via windshield surveys where accessible. Particular attention was given to identifying important species and habitats as defined in NUREG-1555 Section 2.4.
2.2.2 Terrestrial Wildlife Assessment Seasonal wildlife surveys are prescribed herein to document bird, mammal, and herpetofauna use of the Project Site to satisfy NUREG-1555 and NRC Regulatory Guide 4.2 requirements.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 13 The desktop analysis conducted prior to field investigations identified twenty-two migratory birds of conservation concern that have the potential to occur within the Project Site: American golden plover (Pluvialis dominica), bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), black skimmer (Rynchops niger), chimney swift (Chaetura pelagica), dickcissel (Spiza americana), Forsters tern (Sterna forsteri), gull-billed tern (Gelochelidon nilotica), king rail (Rallus elegans), least tern (Sternula antillarum antillarum), lesser yellowlegs (Tringa flabipes), long-billed curlew (Numenius americanus), marbled godwit (Limosa fedoa), painted bunting (Passerina ciris), pectoral sandpiper (Calidris melanotos), prairie loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus excubitorides),
prothonotary warbler (Protonotaria citrea), reddish egret (Egretta rufescens), sandwich tern (Thalasseus sandvicensis), swallow-tailed kite (Elanoides forficatus), short-billed dowitcher (Limnodromus griseus), whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus hudsonicus), and willet (Tringa semipalmata) (USFWS, 2024). Of these migratory birds of conservation concern, bald eagle, chimney swift, dickcissel, lesser yellowlegs, painted bunting, prothonotary warbler, and short-billed dowitcher were previously documented in the vicinity as part of the Victoria Early Site Permit ER (Exelon, 2012) and are likely to inhabit or use nearby habitats of the Project Site during migration and/or the breeding season. As such, these species and their habitat requirements have been given special consideration during the implementation of seasonal field surveys in the Project Site.
To document seasonal wildlife use of the Project Site and the immediate Project Vicinity, seasonal pedestrian surveys were conducted during winter (February 13-15, 2023), spring (May 22-25, 2023), summer (August 15-17, 2023), and fall (November 6-9, 2023). Pedestrian surveys were conducted using a semi-quantitative meandering approach along an established walking route to record encountered terrestrial faunal species presence (visual, audible, or other signs such as tracks, scat, nests) within each of the on-site habitats (Figure 2-2). The established walking route was selected to document wildlife use across the site within each of the on-site habitats near proposed construction activities. A general pedestrian site reconnaissance was also conducted each season for other portions of the Project Site outside of the established walking routes. The field studies for wildlife included surveys for avifauna, mammals, and herpetofauna.
Additionally, a semi-quantitative roadside survey approach was used to make observations of terrestrial faunal species along prescribed stops of existing roads within the Project Vicinity (Figure 2-2). At each of the 41 stops, field biologists recorded birds observed (visible and audible cues) during a 3-minute period for two mornings per seasonal survey period with observations initiated within one hour of sunrise each day. The distances between prescribed stops were generally 0.5 miles with some stopping points focused on potential habitat features (i.e., vegetation changes, stream corridors, waterbodies) and ranged from 1,701 to 4,108 feet.
Notable wildlife travel corridors (if any) were also documented.
Incidental observations of wildlife species and habitats outside the Project Site were also recorded opportunistically through general reconnaissance within the vicinity. Climatic conditions for each survey event were recorded, such as estimated wind intensity (no wind, slight, gusty, strong wind), temperature (degrees Fahrenheit), and cloud cover.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 14 2.3 Aquatic Resources Seasonal aquatic surveys were conducted to document aquatic resources and associated ecological communities at the Project Site and in the Project Vicinity. Fish surveys were conducted during summer (August 15 to 17) and fall (November 6 to 10) 2023 as well as winter (January 9 to 11) and spring (May 21 to 23) 2024. Macroinvertebrate surveys were conducted during fall (November 6 to 10) 2023 and spring (May 21 to 23) 2024. Sampling was conducted at locations identified in Figure 2-3.
2.3.1 Fish Sampling Fish sampling occurred at nine aquatic ecology sampling locations indicated in Figure 2-3.
Semi-qualitative seining or backpack electrofishing techniques were employed for fish sampling in wadable streams. In those locations that are non-wadable or in which seining or backpack electrofishing was not possible, boat electrofishing methodology was employed.
2.3.2 Macroinvertebrate Sampling Qualitative macroinvertebrate samples were collected at the nine aquatic ecology sampling locations using a D-frame kicknet with 500 micrometer (m) mesh or an Ekman or petite ponar dredge, as determined by field conditions. Samples were field sieved through a 500 m mesh and preserved for laboratory identification. Macroinvertebrate sampling was conducted in fall 2023 and spring 2024.
2.4 Important Species and Habitats NUREG-1555 defines important species as:
x Species listed as threatened or endangered in 50 CFR 17.11 (fish and wildlife) and 50 CFR 17.12 (plants) by the USFWS.
x Species proposed for listing as threatened or endangered or is a candidate for listing in the most current list of such species as published in the Federal Register.
x Species listed as threated, endangered, or other species of concern by the State in which the proposed facility is located.
x Commercially or recreationally valuable species.
x Species essential to the maintenance and survival of rare or commercially or recreationally valuable species.
x Species critical to the structure and function of local terrestrial ecosystems.
x Species that could serve as biological indicators to monitor the effects of the facilities on the terrestrial environment.
NUREG-1555 defines important habitats as:
x Wildlife sanctuaries, refuges, or preserves.
x Habitats identified by State or Federal agencies as unique, rare, or of priority for protection.
x Wetlands (Executive Order 11990), floodplains (Executive Order 11988), or other resources specifically protected by Federal regulations or Executive Orders.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 15 x
Land areas identified as critical habitat for species listed as threatened or endangered by the USFWS.
Based on these definitions, these species can include those that are popular for hunting and fishing, the main predators and prey of those species, and other species that are sensitive to changes in the environment. During the pedestrian surveys, any observations of such plant or wildlife species considered important and the habitat that supports them were noted.
A desktop analysis (see Section 2.1.2) was performed prior to field surveys to identify important species and habitats that may be present in the Project Site. These include state and federal listed species and critical habitats in addition to the NUREG-1555 defined important species and habitats identified above.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 16 3
Results 3.1 Terrestrial Resources 3.1.1 Vegetation Results of supplemental field studies are used in part to characterize the assemblage of terrestrial plant species and to aid in the identification of federally listed threatened or endangered species or Texas-listed threatened, endangered, or special concern species potentially occurring within and in proximity to the Project Site.
The land cover in the approximately 1,548-acre Project Site is characterized predominantly by cultivated crops (730 acres), which is the most prevalent land cover type, followed by herbaceous (428 acres), developed, medium intensity land (192 acres), and shrub-scrub (91 acres) (Table 3-1 and Figure 2-1). As depicted on Figure 3-1 and Table 3-1, the NLCD indicates that the most prevalent land cover type found within the Project Vicinity is cultivated crops (34,863 acres), followed by hay/pasture (19,496 acres), open water (11,567 acres), and emergent herbaceous wetlands (9,716 acres). The NLCD mapped landcover within the 6-mile Project Vicinity, as identified in Figure 3-1, was ground-verified utilizing drive-by and selected pedestrian surveys.
The dominant land cover type within the Project Site is cultivated crops (regularly planted in corn), which comprise the majority of lands within the interior of the site. These areas lack natural vegetation, except for agricultural weeds with some resistance to herbicides and an affinity for disturbance which are typically only found along the field margins. Herbaceous lands, which are the next most prevalent landcover, are a mix of pasture lands, infrequently maintained old fields, and maintained turfgrass found around the developed SDO Property, roadsides, and along canal levees. Vegetation within on-site herbaceous lands is dominated by non-native old world bluestem species (Dichanthium spp. and Bothriochloa ischaemum) and Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon). Developed, medium intensity lands are found within the SDO Property and are largely unvegetated except for small patches of maintained Bermuda grass turf. Shrub-scrub is typically found along fencelines or in heavily grazed cattle and goat pastures and includes species typical of Texas-Louisiana Coastal Prairie (NatureServe 2022b) systems where natural disturbance regimes have been disrupted and non-native species have invaded.
Table 3-1 Land Cover within the Project Long Mott Project Site and Vicinity Land Cover Class Project Site(a)
(acres) 6-mile Vicinity(b)
(acres)
Barren Land 123.0 Deciduous Forest 0.5 281.3 Herbaceous 428.1 352.5 Evergreen Forest 0.7 426.6 Developed, High Intensity 430.8
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 17 Land Cover Class Project Site(a)
(acres) 6-mile Vicinity(b)
(acres)
Woody Wetlands 3.3 479.0 Developed, Medium Intensity(c) 192.1 572.4 Mixed Forest 754.8 Developed, Low Intensity 1,159.8 Developed, Open Space 1,832.5 Shrub/Scrub 91.1 2,886.2 Emergent Herbaceous Wetlands 23.5 9,715.7 Open Water 78.5 11,566.7 Hay/Pasture 19,496.2 Cultivated Crops 730.3 34,862.7 Total 1,548.1 84,940.2 a) Source: NLCD data (Dewitz, 2021) modified based on field observations.
b) Source: NLCD data (Dewitz, 2021).
c) Medium Intensity Developed land cover types occur in the Project Area but have no associated vegetation.
The plant communities found throughout the Project Site are common and well represented throughout the local region. These communities contain substantial populations of non-native plant species and successional communities, which indicate significant past anthropogenic disturbance, non-native species invasion, and a disruption to natural disturbance patterns (i.e.,
fire). Vegetation in the Project Site is contained within the Texas-Louisiana Coastal Prairie (CES203.550) (NatureServe 2022b) ecological system concept. This system is typical of the Pleistocene aged Beaumont Formation which underlies the local region, and in its natural state, is tall grass prairie. While remnant indicator species of intact coastal prairie structure remain in some cases within the Project Site to a very limited extent, existing vegetation reflects significant human-driven land use change and habitat degradation. While significantly disturbed and invaded by non-native species, the rectangular pasture south of the railyard in the east portion of the Project Site represents the most intact natural vegetation community on-site (Figure 2-1).
Vegetation descriptions are contextualized within NLCD land cover types of the Project Site modified based on field observations (Table 3-1). Representative photographs of vegetation communities are included in Appendix B. Species observed during the pedestrian surveys are summarized in Table 3-2. Qualitative descriptions of plant communities are included below, including dominant (abundant or common relative abundance) species occurring in any of the strata (tree, shrub, and herb layers).
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 18 Table 3-2 Vascular Plant Species of the Project Long Mott Project Site Scientific Name Common Name Relative Abundance(a) within Landcover Types(b) 1 2
3 4
5 6
7 Project Site Overall Tree Layer Celtis laevigata sugarberry C
R C
U O
Fraxinus berlandieriana Mexican ash R
R Gleditsia triacanthos honey locust U
R Melia azerbach Chinaberry R
R Prosopis glandulosa honey mesquite U
U U
Quercus fusiformis live oak U
U U
Salix interior sandbar willow U
R Salix nigra black willow U
U Triadica sebifera Chinese tallow R
R Vachellia farnesiana huisache O
U Shrub Layer Baccharis halimifolia groundseltree U
O U
C O
Broussonetia papyrifera paper mulberry U
R Callicarpa americana beautyberry R
R Celtis ehrenbergia spiny hackberry R
R Celtis laevigata sugarberry C
R C
U O
Cephalanthus occidentalis buttonbush R
R Forestiera angustifolia Texas swamp privet U
U R
Gleditsia triacanthos honey locust U
R Ilex decidua possumhaw R
R Ilex vomitoria yaupon C
C R
C C
Melia azerbach Chinaberry R
R Morus alba white mulberry U
R Prosopis glandulosa honey mesquite U
U Quercus fusiformis live oak A
O Rosa bracteata McCartney rose C
O O
A U
C A
Salix interior sandbar willow U
R Salix nigra black willow U
U Sideroxylon lanuginosum gum bumelia U
R Smilax bona-nox saw greenbriar U
U Smilax rotundifolia common greenbriar U
O U
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 19 Scientific Name Common Name Relative Abundance(a) within Landcover Types(b) 1 2
3 4
5 6
7 Project Site Overall Toxicodendron radicans poison ivy U
R Triadica sebifera Chinese tallow R
O U
Ulmus crassifolia cedar elm R
R Vachellia farnesiana huisache O
O R
U O
Zanthoxylum clava-herculis Hercules club R
R R
Zanthoxylum fagara lime prickly ash R
R R
Herbaceous Layer Agalinis heterophylla prairie false foxglove U
U Agalinis strictifolia stiffleaf false foxglove R
R Amaranthus palmeri Palmer amaranth R
R Ambrosia psilostachya western ragweed O
O U
O O
Ampelopsis arborea peppervine A
U Amphiachyris dracunculoides prairie broomweed R
R Anagallis arvensis false pimpernell U
R Andropogon glomeratus bushy bluestem R
U U
U Aristida oligantha prairie three awn U
R Asclepias viridis green antelopehorn U
R Baccharis halimifolia groundseltree O
O C
O Bacopa monnieri water hyssop C
O Borrichia frutescens sea oxeye U
U U
Bothriochloa bladhii Caucasian bluestem R
R Bothriochloa ischaemum yellow bluestem O
R U
Bothriochloa laguroides silver bluestem U
U Bothriochloa longipaniculata longspike beardgrass O
R U
U Bouteloua rigidiseta Texas grama U
R Bromus catharticus rescuegrass O
U Callicarpa americana beautyberry R
R Callirhoe involucrata winecup U
U Calyptocarpus vialis straggler daisy U
U Caperonia palustris Texasweed R
U U
Cardiospermum halicacabum balloon vine U
O U
Carex tetrastachya Britton's sedge R
R Chenopodium album lambsquarters R
R Chloris canterae Paraguayan windmill grass U
U Chloris cucullata hooded windmill grass O
U U
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 20 Scientific Name Common Name Relative Abundance(a) within Landcover Types(b) 1 2
3 4
5 6
7 Project Site Overall Chromolaena odorata blue mistflower U
U R
Cirsium horridulum yellow thistle R
R Cooperia sp.
R R
Coreopsis tinctoria plains coreopsis C
O O
Croton lindheimeri Wooly croton O
C U
O O
Croton monanthogynus prairie tea U
U Cucumis melo musk melon R
R U
Cyclospermum leptophyllum marsh parsley R
U R
Cynanchum racemosum talayote R
U U
Cynodon dactylon scutch C
O C
C C
Cyperus articulatus jointed flatsedge U
O U
Cyperus entrerianus deeprooted sedge O
U U
O Cyperus retrorsus pine barren flatsedge U
R U
Cyperus rotundus purple nutsedge R
R Cyperus virens green flatsedge U
U U
Diaperia verna spring pygmy cudweed R
R Dichanthium annulatum Kleberg's bluestem C
A A
A Dichanthium aristatum angleton grass U
C C
O C
Dichanthium sericeum Queensland bluegrass R
R Dichondra sp.
R R
Dinebra nealleyi Nealley's sprangletop R
R Dinebra panicea mucronate sprangletop R
R Distichlis spicata inland saltgrass U
O U
U Dysphania pumilo clammy goosefoot R
R Eleocharis cellulosa Gulf Coast spikerush O
U Eleocharis montevidensis sand spikerush U
U O
A O
Elymus virginicus Virginia wildrye R
R R
Eriochloa punctata Louisiana cupgrass R
R R
R Eryngium hookeri Hooker's eyrngo U
U U
Eupatorium serotinum late thoroughwort U
U U
Euthamia gymnospermoides Texas goldentop R
R Evolvulus sericeus dwarf silver morning glory R
R Fimbristylis puberula hairy fimbry R
U U
Fraxinus berlandieriana Mexican ash R
R Galium tinctorium stiff marsh bedstraw R
R Gomphrena nealleyi Nealley's globe amaranth U
R
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 21 Scientific Name Common Name Relative Abundance(a) within Landcover Types(b) 1 2
3 4
5 6
7 Project Site Overall Helenium amarum bitterweed U
O U
O Helianthus annuus annual sunflower U
U U
Heliotropium curassavicum salt heliotrope R
R Herbertia lahue prairie nymph O
U Hibiscus laevis halberdleaf rosemallow U
U Hordeum pusillum little barley R
U U
Ipomoea heptaphylla Wright's morning glory R
R Iva angustifolia narrowleaf marshelder R
U U
Iva annua sumpweed R
U O
O O
Juncus interior inland rush U
R Juncus marginatus grassleaf rush U
U U
Kyllinga odorata fragrant spikesedge U
R Lantana x strigocamara common lantana R
U R
U Leersia monandra bunch cutgrass R
R Lepidium virginicum Virginia pepperweed U
U U
Limnosciadium pumilum prairie dogshade U
R Linum berlandieri Berlandier's yellow flax U
U Ludwigia peploides floating primrose willow R
R Lycium carolinianum Carolina wolfberry U
R R
Lythrum alatum winged loosestrife O
C O
Lythrum californicum California loosestrife R
R Malachra capitata yellow leafbract U
U Malviscus drummondii Turk's cap U
R Marsilea sp.
U R
Mecardonia procumbens baby jump-up R
R Melochia pyramidata pyramidflower U
R Mimosa strigilosa powderpuff R
R Monarda punctata spotted beebalm U
U Nassella leucotricha Texas wintergrass O
U Neptunia lutea yellow sensitive flower U
U Neptunia pubescens tropical puff U
R Nothoscordum bivalve crow poison U
U Oenothera curtiflora velvety gaura R
R Oenothera laciniata cutleaf evening primrose C
U Oenothera speciosa pink ladies U
R Oxalis corniculata creeping woodsorell C
U U
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 22 Scientific Name Common Name Relative Abundance(a) within Landcover Types(b) 1 2
3 4
5 6
7 Project Site Overall Panicum dichotomiflorum fall witchgrass U
U Panicum hallii Hall's panicgrass R
U U
Panicum virgatum switchgrass U
U Parkinsonia aculeata Jerusalem thorn R
R Parthenium hysterophorus Santa Maria feverfew U
U U
Paspalidium geminatum Egyptian panicgrass U
U Paspalum denticulatum longtom O
C O
O Paspalum dilatatum dallisgrass O
U Paspalum langei rustyseed paspalum U
R Paspalum notatum bahia grass U
U U
Paspalum pubiflorum hairyseed paspalum U
R U
Paspalum setaceum hairy beadgrass R
R Paspalum urvillei Vaseygrass R
R Passiflora foetida stinking passionflower U
R Pediomelum rhombifolium gulf indian breadroot U
R Phalaris caroliniana Carolina canarygrass U
U U
Phoradendron leucocarpum American mistletoe R
R Phragmites australis common reed U
U Phyla nodiflora Texas frogfruit O
U O
Phyllanthus evenescens birdseed leaf R
R Phyrhopappus pauciflorus smallflower desert chicory O
O Phytolacca americana pokeweed R
R Plantago aristata bracted plantain R
R Pluchea odorata marsh fleabane U
R R
Polypremum procumbens juniper leaf R
R Polytaenia texana Texas prairie parsley R
R Ratibida columnifera Mexican hat R
R Rhynchosia minima least snoutbean U
U Rhynchospora cauduca anglestem beaksedge R
R Rhynchospora indianolensis*
Indianola beaksedge R
U R
Rivina humilis pigeonberry U
R Rosa bracteata McCartney rose O
C O
Rubus trivialis southern dewberry C
O O
U O
Rudbeckia hirta black eyed Susan O
U U
Ruellia nudiflora violet ruellia U
R Rumex chrysocarpus amamastla U
R
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 23 Scientific Name Common Name Relative Abundance(a) within Landcover Types(b) 1 2
3 4
5 6
7 Project Site Overall Rumex pulcher fiddle dock O
R U
U Sabal minor dwarf palmetto R
R R
Sabatia campestris Texas star O
U O
Sagittaria longiloba longbarb arrowhead R
R R
Schizachyrium scoparium little bluestem R
U U
Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani softstem bulrush R
R Sesbania drummondii rattlebox U
U U
O Sesbania herbacea coffeeweed U
U O
O O
Setaria magna giant bristlegrass R
R Setaria parviflora marsh bristlegrass O
O R
O Sida ciliaris bracted fanpetals R
R Solanum elaeagnifolium silverleaf nightshade U
U U
Solanum ptycanthum eastern black nightshade R
R Solanum triquetrum Texas nightshade R
R Solidago altissima tall goldenrod O
U R
O O
Solidago sempervirens seaside goldenrod O
U U
Sorghum halepense Johnsongrass O
O U
O Spartina spartinae Gulf cordgrass R
U U
Sporobolus indicus smutgrass U
U Stachys crenata mousesear R
R Steinchisma hians gaping grass U
O O
O Symphyotrichum divaricatum southern annual saltmarsh aster O
C O
O Teucrium cubense small coastal germander R
R Torilis nodosa knotted hedgeparsley R
R Toxicodendron radicans poison ivy R
R Triadica sebifera Chinese tallow R
R Tridens strictus longspike tridens R
R Typha domingensis Southern cattail C
O O
Urochloa fusca browntop signalgrass O
U U
Urochloa platyphylla broadleaf signalgrass A
U O
Vachellia farnesiana huisache O
U U
Verbena brasiliensis Brazilian vervain U
U U
O Verbena halei Texas vervain A
O O
Vigna luteola hairy cowpea R
R Xanthium strumarium cocklebur R
R Zea mays corn A
A
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 24 Scientific Name Common Name Relative Abundance(a) within Landcover Types(b) 1 2
3 4
5 6
7 Project Site Overall Woody Vine Layer Ampelopsis arborea peppervine U
U A
U C
Smilax bona-nox saw greenbriar U
O O
O Smilax rotundifolia common greenbriar U
U Vitis mustangensis mustang grape U
O U
a) Relative abundance (qualitative) for occurrence in the Project Site:
A = Abundant; C = Common; O = Occasional; U = Uncommon; R = Rare b) Landcover Types: 1 = Cultivated Crops; 2 = Deciduous Forest; 3 = Evergreen Forest; 4 = Herbaceous; 5 = Shrub/Scrub; 6 = Emergent Herbaceous Wetlands; 7 = Woody Wetlands State Vulnerable (S3) (TPWD 2011)
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 25 The key characteristics of landcover types and the diversity of plant associations found within each type identified within the site are described in the following:
Cultivated Crops:
Cropland (730.3 acres) is the most extensive landcover type found with the Project Site and is generally positioned within large open upland plains within the interior of the site. Row crops of corn occur as a monoculture within actively cropped areas of agricultural fields. However, along the fringes of cropped corn fields, a frequently disturbed ruderal herbaceous community can be sporadically found. Within these naturally vegetated areas, weedy species like Brazilian vervain (Verbena brasiliensis), broadleaf signalgrass (Urochloa platyphylla), browntop signalgrass (Urochloa fusca), Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense), creeping woodsorrel (Oxalis corniculata), cutleaf evening primrose (Oenothera laciniata), and plains coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria) dominate.
Evergreen Forest:
Evergreen forest (0.7 acres) is present within portions of the southeastern corner of the Project Site where scattered patches of live oak (Quercus fusiformis) mottes are found within a scrub-shrub dominated matrix of cattle-and goat-grazed lands. This vegetation community is positioned along a low swale at the toe of West Coloma Creeks east flanking levee within a naturally vegetated scrub-scrub community. Live oak dominates the overstory and sugarberry (Celtis laevigata) can be found to a lesser extent, while the shrub layer is occupied by yaupon (Ilex vomitoria), beautyberry (Callicarpa americana), and McCartney rose (Rosa bracteata). The herb layer is sparsely occupied by angleton grass (Dichanthium aristatum), blue mistflower (Chromolaena odorata), Texas goldentop (Euthamia gymnospermoides), and rustyseed paspalum (Paspalum langei). Scrambling vines are found growing up into the mid-story, including saw greenbriar (Smilax bona-nox), common greenbriar (Smilax rotundifolia) and poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans). This vegetation community seems to be associated with less disturbed, slightly wetter upland conditions underlain by Dacosta-Contee complex soils.
Deciduous Forest:
A small fringe of deciduous forest totaling 0.5 acres was identified along a hedgerow bordering the west levee of West Coloma Creek at the eastern edge of an actively cultivated crop field.
The tree canopy is dominated by sugarberry, which grows over shrubs of McCartney rose, yaupon, saw greenbriar, and common greenbriar. The herb layer is influenced by vegetation found on the nearby levee and includes Klebergs bluestem (Dichanthium annulatum) and angleton grass (Dichanthium aristatum).
Shrub-Scrub and Woody Wetlands:
NLCD shrub-scrub and woody wetland landcovers (94.4 acres) are found throughout the Project Site and are represented by several different vegetation types, varying by local disturbance, water availability, and soil conditions. Shrub-scrub (upland) (91.1 acres) is the most extensive type found within the site although woody wetland (3.3 acres) is also represented. Shrubs are evident in the woody wetlands of the Project Site. WOTUS-delineated wetlands and features are described below with emergent wetlands and in the project WOTUS report (WSP, 2023c).
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 26 Within actively or formerly grazed pasture in dry sites located within the hydric soil map series, Dacosta-Contee complex (NRCS 2023), shrub-scrub patches form around thickets of McCartney rose, sugarberry, yaupon, or huisache (Vachellia farnesiana). The herb layer can be crowded out by thickets of shrub-scrub, as seen north of the rail yard in the northeastern corner of the Project Site, but in areas still heavily grazed, it is typically dense where it grows between scrub thickets and is dominated by species that include Klebergs bluestem, angleton grass, Bermuda grass, bitterweed (Helenium amarum), fiddle dock (Rumex pulcher), Santa Maria feverfew (Parthenium hysterophorus), and plains coreopsis. Within heavily grazed pasture in slightly wetter upland sites of the same soil map series, the same shrub species are found; however, huisache falls out to a large extent and is replaced by live oak. In the herb layer, dominant species found in dry shrub-scrub sites are also found, in addition to dallisgrass (Paspalum dilatatum), marsh bristlegrass (Setaria parviflora), gaping grass (Steinchisma hians),
gulf cordgrass (Spartina spartinae), and the state sensitive S3 species, Indianola beaksedge (Rhynchospora indianolensis).
Shrub-scrub wetland and wetter upland sites found north of the two wetland basins (SD-WET-03 and SD-WET-04) between the wetland ditch (SD-WET-05) and crop fields along the southwestern edge of the Project Site represent another community assemblage found on-site.
Hydric soils of Laewest clay, 0 to 1 percent slope (NRCS 2023) underlie low scrub thickets of groundseltree (Baccharis halimifolia) and McCartney rose that are interspersed by herbaceous vegetation dominated by Bermuda grass, winged loosestrife (Lythrum alatum), and groundseltree. Wetland basin and ditch features referenced above can be found in Figure 3-2 and the project WOTUS report (WSP, 2023c).
Bordered by crop field to the south and east, within a naturally vegetated parcel along the eastern edge, in the central part of the Project Site, a final shrub-scrub vegetation association is found within the hydric, Edna Loam, 0 to 1 percent slopes soil map series (NRCS 2023). A small pocket of honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos) trees is found in the corner of the parcel, while the rest of the area is dominated by impenetrable thickets of shrub-scrub, except for a few paths created by cattle, deer, and brush-hogging which allow ingress. Thickets of McCartney rose, groundseltree, yaupon, and huisache grow over an herbaceous layer dominated by prairie agalinis (Agalinis heterophylla), western ragweed (Ambrosia psilostachya), Klebergs bluestem, fall panicum (Panicum dichotomiflorum), coffeeweed (Sesbania herbacea), and Brazilian vervain. This vegetation community seems to be partially influenced by its proximity to agricultural fields, as several weedy species found along crop field margins were also found here.
Herbaceous:
Herbaceous landcover (428.1 acres) found throughout the Project Site can be classified as maintained turf, pasture, or ruderal old field.
Herbaceous landcover in the western part of the Project Site located around the Dow plant consists entirely of maintained turf dominated by Bermuda grass. Elsewhere, along the mowed or grazed canal and irrigation ditch berms, Bermuda grass can be found along the low slopes and longtom (Paspalum denticulatum) in dewatered portions of the channels, while Klebergs bluestem, angleton grass, and broadleaf signalgrass dominate the upper slopes.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 27 Overgrazed herbaceous pasture lands found in the southeastern portion of Project Site mixed with shrub-scrub and are dominated by mowed grasses including Klebergs bluestem, angleton grass, Bermuda grass, Texas grama (Bouteloua rigidiseta), and hooded windmill grass (Chloris cucullata). Forbs are present to a lesser extent; plains coreopsis, prairie tea (Croton monanthogynus), Berlandiers yellow flax (Linum berlandieri), and Texas star (Sabatia campestris) were most commonly observed. A few stems of the state sensitive (S3) Indianola beaksedge were recorded here (TPWD 2011).
Herbaceous landcover found in the northeast portion of the Project Site north of the railyard is no longer grazed or maintained by mowing and has become overgrown, especially by weedy forbs. Within this ruderal, old field community, grasses including Bermuda grass, Klebergs bluestem, and hairyseed paspalum (Paspalum pubiflorum) are still found but are often over-topped and shaded out by luxuriant growth of forbs and woody species including Santa Maria feverfew, Brazilian vervain, southern dewberry (Rubus trivialis), western ragweed (Ambrosia psilostachya), talayote (Cynanchum racemosum), balloonvine (Cardiospermum halicacabum),
and rattlebox (Sesbania drummondii). Bermuda grass is dominant within lands underlain by Edna loam, while herbaceous vegetation growing in soils Contee-Dacosta and Dacosta-Contee complexes (NRCS 2023) is more diverse and possesses greater affinity here to upland conditions.
A large rectangular pasture south of the railyard, in the northeast portion of the Project Site represents the most diverse herbaceous community found within the Project Site (Figure 2-1).
Although the presence of non-native species is abundant, partially intact short-grassland structure and some native coastal prairie species diversity here is likely maintained by occasional cattle grazing, at an intensity and periodicity that perhaps mimics the natural disturbance patterns historically maintained by native ungulate herbivory in the region. Common grass and forb species include bahia grass (Paspalum notatum), Klebergs bluestem, angleton grass, Bermuda grass, rescuegrass (Bromus catharticus), Texas wintergrass (Nassella leucotricha), marsh bristlegrass, blackeyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), Texas star, western ragweed, green antelopehorn (Asclepias viridis), winecup (Callirhoe involucrata), pine barren flatsedge (Cyperus retrorsus), creeping woodsorell, Hookers eryngo (Eryngium hookeri), prairie nymph (Hebertia lahue), fragrant spikesedge (Kyllinga odorata), and spotted beebalm (Monarda punctata). Scattered shrubs of McCartney rose, huisache, and honey mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa) are interspersed throughout.
Emergent Wetlands:
A total of 23.5 acres of emergent wetlands was identified during Waters of the United States (WOTUS) delineations in the spring and summer surveys (WSP, 2023c). WOTUS delineated features can be found in Figure 3-2.
Twin basin wetlands (SD-WET-03 and SD-WET-04) located in southwest corner of the Project Site include seasonally saturated/inundated wetlands around more permanently inundated areas that hold standing water for much of the year (WSP, 2023c). In the seasonally wet flats, Bermuda grass, longtom, desert saltgrass (Distichlis spicata), tropical puff (Neptunia pubescens), sand spikerush (Eleocharis montevidensis), jointed flatsedge (Cyperus articulatus),
and Gulf Coast spikerush (Eleocharis cellulosa) are dominant. In or around the more
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 28 permanently inundated features, water hyssop (Bacopa monnieri) was found growing as a submerged aquatic and southern cattail (Typha domingensis) was found fringing the features as an emergent.
To the north of the SDO operating basins in the northwest corner of the Project Site, the emergent wetland SD-WET-11 is a depressional feature bordering the edge of an active crop field (Figure 3-2, WSP, 2023c). Small trees and shrubs including black willow, sandbar willow, Chinese tallow (Triadica sebifera), and Mexican ash (Fraxinus berlandieriana) are scattered throughout the depressional basin which is largely vegetated by ruderal herbaceous vegetation.
Egyptian panicgrass (Paspalidium geminatum), yellow leafbract (Malachra capitata),
Texasweed (Caperonia palustris), and winged loosestrife (Lythrum alatum) are found in the herbaceous layer along with scrambling and vining forbs and woody species including balloon vine (Cardiospermum halicacabum), peppervine (Ampelopsis arborea), and southern dewberry.
SD-WET-07 is a depressional emergent wetland that is supported by a low area located in the southwestern corner of the Project Site (Figure 3-2, WSP, 2023c). Common herbaceous species recorded within the wetland included sandspike rush, annual marsh elder (Iva annua),
and bermudagrass. SD-WET-09 is another depressional emergent wetland that is supported by a depressional area which drains adjacent cropland (Figure 3-2, WSP, 2023c). Common herbaceous species recorded within the wetland included sandspike rush, winged loosestrife, and southern cattail. Both wetlands contained low plant diversity.
Emergent wetlands associated with ditch features were found throughout the site (Figure 3-2, WSP, 2023c). Ditches which hold water semi-permanently include hydrophytic species like southern cattail and water hyssop along with other hydrophytic terrestrial species, including black willow (Salix nigra), sandbar willow (Salix interior), common reed (Phragmites australis),
possumhaw (Ilex decidua), halberdleaf rosemallow (Hibiscus laevis), winged loosestrife, dwarf palmetto, buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis), and Chinese tallow. Ditches which remain dry for much of the year were typically less diverse and were largely dominated by longtom.
3.1.2 Wildlife The terrestrial ecology of the Project Site and vicinity were characterized in a series of seasonal field studies. Seasonal surveys were conducted in the winter (February 13-15, 2023), spring (May 22-25, 2023), summer (August 15-17, 2023), and fall (November 6-9, 2023). The field studies for wildlife included surveys for avifauna, mammals and herpetofauna. In general, study methods within the Project Site included a review of available mapping and databases, information from the USFWS IPaC system, and TPWD Calhoun County rare species list. A map of the site with the ecological survey locations is provided in Figure 2-2. The subsections below summarize relevant information obtained from each of these surveys and provide other data and descriptions of the terrestrial ecology in the area.
3.1.2.1 Avifauna Field studies for avian species included pedestrian meandering and general field reconnaissance and roadside survey methods. Figure 2-2 depicts the ecological survey locations during the seasonal surveys. Detailed methodology can be found in Section 2.2.2.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 29 A total of 56 species were observed during the winter 2023 surveys, including 17 species as part of the surveys within the Project Site, 46 species observed along vicinity driving routes, and 27 species as part of the vicinity general reconnaissance (Table 3-3). Abundant and common bird species observed during the winter 2023 Project Site field surveys included red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) and turkey vulture (Cathartes aura).
A total of 72 bird species were observed during the spring 2023 surveys, including 36 species as part of the surveys within the Project Site, 58 species observed along vicinity driving routes, and 30 species as part of the vicinity general reconnaissance (Table 3-4). Abundant and common bird species observed during spring 2023 Project Site field surveys included red-winged blackbird, Northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), turkey vulture, Northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos), brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater), and cave swallow (Petrochelidon fulva).
A total of 60 species were observed during the summer 2023 surveys, including 33 species as part of the surveys within the Project Site, 42 species observed along vicinity driving routes, and 37 species as part of the vicinity general reconnaissance (Table 3-5). Abundant and common bird species observed during summer 2023 Project Site field surveys included red-winged blackbird, turkey vulture, and mourning dove (Zenaida macroura).
A total of 57 bird species were observed during the fall 2023 surveys, including 20 species as part of the surveys within the Project Site, 46 species observed along vicinity driving routes, and 43 species as part of the vicinity general reconnaissance (Table 3-6). Abundant and common bird species observed during fall 2023 Project Site field surveys included red-winged blackbird, Northern cardinal, killdeer (Charadrius vociferus), black vulture (Coragyps atratus), brown-headed cowbird, savannah sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis), great-tailed grackle (Quiscalus mexicanus), northern rough-winged swallow (Stelgidopteryx serripennis), European starling (Sturnus vulgaris), and mourning dove.
Large trees typically used for raptor nesting are limited within the Project Site; as such, no raptor nests were observed within the Project Site during seasonal ecology field surveys. Waterfowl and water dependent bird species were observed in close association with the vicinity wetland complexes near Green Lake and Mission Lake.
The complete list of birds observed within the Project Site and Project Vicinity for each seasonal survey are recorded in Tables 3-3, 3-4, 3-5, and 3-6. The white-tailed hawk (Buteo albicaudatus), state listed as threatened by TPWD, was observed on-site and within the vicinity during spring 2023 surveys and in the vicinity during summer and fall 2023. Since the white-tailed hawk was only observed perched on a transmission line tower and as a flyover to these areas and no raptor nests were observed, the white-tailed hawk likely uses the site and vicinity to forage. The wood stork (Mycteria americana), state listed as threatened by TPWD, was observed in the vicinity during summer 2023. The wood stork was not observed on-site. Bald eagle, identified by USFWS as a migratory bird of conservation concern and protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, was observed within the Project Vicinity during winter 2023, but no raptor nests were observed.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 30 No federally listed bird species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) were observed during field surveys in the Project Site or Project Vicinity. Northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus), and mourning dove (Zenaida macroura) were species observed within the Project Site that are recreationally valuable since they are game species as listed by TPWD hunting regulations (2023a). Species observed in the Project Vicinity that are recreationally valuable as game species by TPWD hunting regulations (2023) include Northern pintail (Anas acuta), green-winged teal (Anas crecca), sandhill crane (Antigone canadensis), Northern bobwhite, black-bellied whistling-duck (Dendrocygna autumnalis), American coot (Fulica americana), Wilsons snipe (Gallinago delicata), common gallinule (Gallinula galeata), gadwall (Mareca strepera), wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), red-breasted merganser (Mergus serrator), Northern shoveler (Spatula clypeata), blue-winged teal (Spatula discors), and mourning dove.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 31 Table 3-3 Avifaunal Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Winter 2023 Scientific Name Common Name On-site Surveys Abundance1 Driving Route Abundance2 Vicinity General Reconnaissance3 Agelaius phoeniceus Red-winged blackbird A
A X
Anas acuta Northern pintail X
Anas crecca Green-winged teal X
Antigone canadensis Sandhill crane U
Ardea alba Great egret R
O X
Ardea herodias Great blue heron U
U Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed hawk U
O Buteo lineatus Red-shouldered hawk R
Butorides virescens Green heron R
Caracara cheriway Crested caracara U
O X
Cardinalis cardinalis Northern cardinal C
X Cathartes aura Turkey vulture C
C X
Charadrius vociferus Killdeer O
Circus hudsonius Northern harrier R
U X
Columba livia Rock pigeon R
Coragyps atratus Black vulture C
X Dumetella carolinensis Gray catbird R
Egretta thula Snowy egret R
Egretta tricolor Tricolored heron R
Eudocimus albus White ibis C
Falco sparverius American kestrel R
C X
Fulica americana American coot A
X Gallinago delicata Wilson's snipe R
Gallinula galeata Common gallinule R
Haemorhous mexicanus House finch R
Haliaeetus leucocephalus Bald eagle R
Himantopus mexicanus Black-necked stilt X
Hydroprogne caspia Caspian tern R
Lanius ludovicianus Loggerhead shrike U
X Leucophaeus atricilla Laughing gull R
X Limnodromus griseus Short-billed dowitcher X
Mareca strepera Gadwall X
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 32 Scientific Name Common Name On-site Surveys Abundance1 Driving Route Abundance2 Vicinity General Reconnaissance3 Megaceryle alcyon Belted kingfisher R
Melospiza melodia Song sparrow O
O Mimus polyglottos Northern mockingbird O
O X
Molothrus ater Brown-headed cowbird R
Nannopterum auritum Double-crested cormorant R
Parkesia noveboracensis Northern waterthrush R
Passerculus sandwichensis Savannah sparrow O
Pelecanus occidentalis Brown pelican R
X Pipilo erythrophthalmus Eastern towhee R
Platalea ajaja Roseate spoonbill R
Plegadis falcinellus Glossy ibis R
X Podilymbus podiceps Pied-billed grebe R
X Quiscalus mexicanus Great-tailed grackle R
A X
Sayornis phoebe Eastern phoebe R
R Setophaga coronata Yellow-rumped warbler R
R Spatula clypeata Northern shoveler X
Spatula discors Blue-winged teal X
Streptopelia decaocto Eurasian collared-dove O
A X
Sturnella magna Eastern meadowlark C
Sturnus vulgaris European starling U
X Tringa flavipes Lesser yellowlegs X
Vireo griseus White-eyed vireo U
Zenaida macroura Mourning dove R
X Zonotrichia albicollis White-throated sparrow R
U Species Richness 17 46 27 1Species identified during on-site pedestrian surveys.
2Species identified along the bird transect routes at designated vicinity stopping points.
3X = Observed during opportunistic field reconnaissance.
Abundance Categories: A=abundant; C=common; O=occasional; U=uncommon; R=rare
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 33 Table 3-4 Avifaunal Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Spring 2023 Scientific Name Common Name On-site Surveys Abundance1 Driving Route Abundance2 Vicinity General Reconnaissance3 Agelaius phoeniceus Red-winged blackbird A
A X
Ardea alba Great egret U
O X
Bubulcus ibis Cattle egret U
Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed hawk R
X Butorides virescens Green heron U
Calidris minutilla Least sandpiper R
U Caracara cheriway Crested caracara U
U Cardinalis cardinalis Northern cardinal C
C X
Cathartes aura Turkey vulture C
C Charadrius vociferus Killdeer O
C X
Chlidonias niger Black tern U
Chordeiles minor Common nighthawk R
X Coccyzus americanus Yellow-billed cuckoo U
O Colinus virginianus Northern bobwhite U
O Columba livia Rock pigeon R
R Contopus virens Eastern wood-pewee U
R Coragyps atratus Black vulture R
C Cyanocitta cristata Blue jay U
Dendrocygna autumnalis Black-bellied whistling-duck C
Egretta caerulea Little blue heron U
U X
Egretta thula Snowy egret U
A Egretta tricolor Tricolored heron U
X Eudocimus albus White ibis X
Fulica americana American coot U
Gallinula galeata Common gallinule U
Geothlypis trichas Common yellowthroat U
Geranoaetus albicaudatus White-tailed hawk R
U Himantopus mexicanus Black-necked stilt X
Hirundo rustica Barn swallow X
Icteria virens Yellow-breasted chat R
Lanius ludovicianus Loggerhead shrike R
U X
Leucophaeus atricilla Laughing gull U
X Melanerpes carolinus Red-bellied woodpecker U
Meleagris gallopavo Wild turkey X
Mergus serrator Red-breasted merganser C
X Mimus polyglottos Northern mockingbird A
A X
Molothrus aeneus Bronzed cowbird U
Molothrus ater Brown-headed cowbird A
A
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 34 Scientific Name Common Name On-site Surveys Abundance1 Driving Route Abundance2 Vicinity General Reconnaissance3 Myiarchus crinitus Great crested flycatcher U
U X
Myiarchus tyrannulus Brown-crested flycatcher R
Nannopterum auritum Double-crested cormorant R
U X
Nyctanassa violacea Yellow-crowned night-heron R
U Passer domesticus House sparrow U
Passerina caerulea Blue grosbeak R
Passerina ciris Painted bunting U
Pelecanus occidentalis Brown pelican X
Petrochelidon fulva Cave swallow A
A X
Petrochelidon pyrrhonota Cliff swallow X
Phalaropus tricolor Wilson's phalarope R
Platalea ajaja Roseate spoonbill X
Plegadis falcinellus Glossy ibis U
Podilymbus podiceps Pied-billed grebe R
Poecile carolinensis Carolina chickadee U
Progne subis Purple martin R
Quiscalus mexicanus Great-tailed grackle U
A X
Quiscalus quiscula Common grackle R
Setophaga coronata Yellow-rumped warbler R
Spinus tristis American goldfinch U
Spiza americana Dickcissel U
C Sterna forsteri Forster's tern R
R Sterna hirundo Common tern R
U X
Streptopelia decaocto Eurasian collared-dove O
U X
Sturnella magna Eastern meadowlark U
O Sturnus vulgaris European starling O
U X
Thalasseus maximus Royal tern X
Thryothorus ludovicianus Carolina wren U
Tringa flavipes Lesser yellowlegs X
Tringa semipalmata Willet R
X Tyrannus forficatus Scissor-tailed flycatcher U
U X
Vireo griseus White-eyed vireo U
Vireo olivaceus Red-eyed vireo U
Zenaida macroura Mourning dove U
A Species Richness 36 58 30 1Species identified during on-site pedestrian surveys.
2Species identified along the bird transect routes at designated vicinity stopping points.
3X = Observed during field reconnaissance.
Abundance Categories: A=abundant; C=common; O=occasional; U=uncommon; R=rare
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 35 Table 3-5 Avifaunal Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Summer 2023 Scientific Name Common Name On-site Surveys Abundance1 Driving Route Abundance2 Vicinity General Reconnaissance3 Agelaius phoeniceus Red-winged blackbird A
A X
Ammodramus savannarum Grasshopper sparrow R
Anhinga anhinga Anhinga R
X Ardea alba Great egret R
A X
Ardea herodias Great blue heron C
X Bubulcus ibis Cattle egret O
A X
Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed hawk R
R Butorides virescens Green heron R
X Caracara cheriway Crested caracara U
U X
Cardinalis cardinalis Northern cardinal O
C Cathartes aura Turkey vulture C
A X
Charadrius vociferus Killdeer U
R X
Chlidonias niger Black tern A
X Chordeiles minor Common nighthawk O
X Circus hudsonius Northern harrier R
R Columba livia Rock pigeon R
X Contopus virens Eastern wood-pewee R
Coragyps atratus Black vulture O
O X
Dendrocygna autumnalis Black-bellied whistling duck C
X Dumetella carolinensis Gray catbird U
Egretta caerulea Little blue heron C
X Egretta thula Snowy egret R
A X
Egretta tricolor Tricolored heron U
U X
Eudocimus albus White ibis U
A X
Fulica americana American coot A
X Gallinula galeata Common gallinule U
X Geranoaetus albicaudatus White-tailed hawk R
Himantopus mexicanus Black-necked stilt U
A X
Lanius ludovicianus Loggerhead shrike R
O X
Leucophaeus atricilla Laughing gull X
Limnodromus griseus Short-billed dowitcher X
Megaceryle alcyon Belted kingfisher X
Melanerpes carolinus Red-bellied woodpecker R
Mimus polyglottos Northern mockingbird O
C X
Molothrus ater Brown-headed cowbird R
C X
Mycteria americana Wood stork U
Myiarchus crinitus Great crested flycatcher R
Nannopterum auritum Double-crested cormorant R
U X
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 36 Scientific Name Common Name On-site Surveys Abundance1 Driving Route Abundance2 Vicinity General Reconnaissance3 Pelecanus occidentalis Brown pelican X
Petrochelidon fulva Cave swallow A
Petrochelidon pyrrhonota Cliff swallow U
U Piranga rubra Summer tanager R
Platalea ajaja Roseate spoonbill U
Plegadis falcinellus Glossy ibis U
Podilymbus podiceps Pied-billed grebe X
Quiscalus mexicanus Great-tailed grackle A
A X
Sayornis phoebe Eastern phoebe R
Setophaga petechia Yellow warbler R
Spinus tristis American goldfinch U
O Spiza americana Dickcissel U
Spizelloides arborea American tree sparrow U
Stelgidopteryx serripennis Northern rough-winged swallow R
X Sterna forsteri Forster's tern X
Streptopelia decaocto Eurasian collared-dove U
O Sturnus vulgaris European starling O
Thalasseus maximus Royal tern X
Thalasseus sandvicensis Sandwich tern R
X Tringa semipalmata Willet X
Vireo griseus White-eyed vireo U
Zenaida macroura Mourning dove A
A X
Species Richness 33 42 37 1Species identified during on-site pedestrian surveys.
2Species identified along the bird transect routes at designated vicinity stopping points.
3X = Observed during field reconnaissance.
Abundance Categories: A=abundant; C=common; O=occasional; U=uncommon; R=rare
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 37 Table 3-6 Avifaunal Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Fall 2023 Scientific Name Common Name On-site Surveys Abundance1 Driving Route Abundance2 Vicinity General Reconnaissance3 Agelaius phoeniceus Red-winged blackbird A
A X
Anas acuta Northern pintail R
Anhinga anhinga Anhinga R
X Antigone canadensis Sandhill crane O
Ardea alba Great egret R
O X
Ardea herodias Great blue heron O
Botaurus lentiginosus American bittern X
Bubulcus ibis Cattle egret C
Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed hawk R
C X
Buteo lineatus Red-shouldered hawk R
Calidris minutilla Least sandpiper X
Caracara cheriway Crested carcara U
X Cardinalis cardinalis Northern cardinal C
U X
Cathartes aura Turkey vulture U
A X
Charadrius vociferus Killdeer C
C X
Chordeiles minor Common nighthawk R
Circus hudsonius Northern harrier R
X Coragyps atratus Black vulture A
A X
Dumetella carolinensis Gray catbird R
Egretta caerulea Little blue heron X
Egretta thula Snowy egret C
X Egretta tricolor Tricolored heron R
X Eudocimus albus White ibis R
X Falco sparverius American kestrel U
X Fulica americana American coot A
X Geranoaetus albicaudatus White-tailed hawk U
Hirundo rustica Barn swallow R
Lanius ludovicianus Loggerhead shrike U
C X
Leucophaeus atricilla Laughing gull X
Megaceryle alcyon Belted kingfisher U
X Melanerpes carolinus Red-bellied woodpecker R
Melospiza melodia Song sparrow U
X Mimus polyglottos Northern mockingbird U
U X
Molothrus ater Brown-headed cowbird C
A X
Nannopterum auritum Double-crested cormorant R
U X
Pandion haliaetus Osprey R
X Passerculus sandwichensis Savannah sparrow C
C X
Pelecanus occidentalis Brown pelican X
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 38 Scientific Name Common Name On-site Surveys Abundance1 Driving Route Abundance2 Vicinity General Reconnaissance3 Plegadis falcinellus Glossy ibis X
Podilymbus podiceps Pied-billed grebe X
Polioptila caerulea Blue-gray gnatcatcher R
X Quiscalus mexicanus Great-tailed grackle A
A X
Sayornis phoebe Eastern phoebe U
U X
Sialia sialis Eastern bluebird R
Spatula clypeata Northern shoveler X
Spinus tristis American goldfinch R
Stelgidopteryx serripennis Northern rough-winged swallow A
A Sterna forsteri Forster's tern U
U X
Streptopelia decaocto Eurasian collared-dove C
X Sturnella magna Eastern meadowlark C
X Sturnella neglecta Western meadowlark X
Sturnus vulgaris European starling C
A X
Tringa semipalmata Willet X
Troglodytes aedon House wren U
O X
Tyrannus forficatus Scissor-tailed flycatcher R
X Vireo griseus White-eyed Vireo R
Zenaida macroura Mourning dove C
A X
Species Richness 20 46 43 1Species identified during on-site pedestrian surveys.
2Species identified along the bird transect routes at designated vicinity stopping points.
3X = Observed during field reconnaissance.
Abundance Categories: A=abundant; C=common; O=occasional; U=uncommon; R=rare 3.1.2.2 Mammals Field studies for mammal species included general field reconnaissance and incidental observations during pedestrian surveys. Figure 2-2 depicts the ecological survey locations during the seasonal surveys. Detailed methodology can be found in Section 2.2.2.
Mammal species observed in the Project Site included coyote (Canis latrans), opossum (Didelphis virginiana), white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), raccoon (Procyon lotor), feral hog (Sus scrofa), eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus), groundhog (Marmota monax), and striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis). Mammal occurrence in the Project Site is likely driven by various habitats (developed lands, cultivated crops, herbaceous, scrub/shrub, open water, and fragmented forest) and previous disturbance within and surrounding the Project Site. Within the Project Vicinity, additional mammal species of beaver (Castor canadensis), armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus), and nutria (Myocastor coypus), were observed. The list of mammals observed within and near the Project Site is recorded in Table 3-7 (winter 2023) Table 3-8 (spring 2023),
Table 3-9 (summer 2023), and Table 3-10 (fall 2023). White-tailed deer are recreationally
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 39 valuable as game species, while coyotes and eastern cottontails are nongame species in Texas. Opossum, nutria, raccoon, and striped skunk are recreationally valuable as furbearers as listed by TPWD hunting regulations. Feral hogs and coyotes are also hunted in Texas (TPWD 2023a).
Tracks of wildlife species, such as white-tailed deer, raccoon, opossum, and coyote, were observed throughout much of the Project Site habitats during the seasonal field surveys. These common species do not appear to be impacted by the current level of human and industrial activities occurring near the site. These mobile species along with others observed on-site, such as eastern cottontail, groundhog, striped skunk, and feral hog and other terrestrial mammals not observed but likely to occur such as rodents, collectively create and use travel corridors across various biotic communities on the site and to and from adjacent properties. The longest and most complex travel corridors are typically established by white-tailed deer. Other species may use portions of these regularly traveled trails.
Table 3-7 Mammal Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Winter 2023 Scientific Name Common Name On-site Vicinity Canis latrans Coyote X
Didelphis virginiana Opossum X
Odocoileus virginianus White-tailed deer X
X Procyon lotor Raccoon X
X Sylvilagus floridanus Eastern cottontail X
Marmota monax Groundhog X
X Mephitis mephitis Striped skunk X
Table 3-8 Mammal Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Spring 2023 Scientific Name Common Name On-site Vicinity Canis latrans Coyote X
Castor canadensis Beaver X
Dasypus novemcinctus Armadillo X
Marmota monax Groundhog X
Mephitis mephitis Striped skunk X
Odocoileus virginianus White-tailed deer X
X Procyon lotor Raccoon X
X Sus scrofa Feral hog X
X Sylvilagus floridanus Eastern cottontail X
X Table 3-9 Mammal Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Summer 2023 Scientific Name Common Name On-site Vicinity Dasypus novemcinctus Armadillo X
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 40 Myocastor coypus Nutria X
Odocoileus virginianus White-tailed deer X
X Procyon lotor Raccoon X
X Sylvilagus floridanus Eastern cottontail X
Table 3-10 Mammal Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Fall 2023 Scientific Name Common Name On-site Vicinity Canis latrans Coyote X
Didelphis virginiana Opossum X
Odocoileus virginianus White-tailed deer X
X Procyon lotor Raccoon X
X Sylvilagus floridanus Eastern cottontail X
3.1.2.3 Herpetofauna Herpetofauna were recorded based on general field reconnaissance and incidental observations during the ecological surveys. Figure 2-2 depicts the ecological survey locations during the seasonal surveys. Detailed methodology can be found in Section 2.2.2.
Herpetofauna species encountered on the Project Site included American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis), gulf coast toad (Incilius nebulifer), American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus), diamondback watersnake (Nerodia rhombifer), five-lined skink (Plestiodon fasciatus), Gulf Coast ribbon snake (Thamnophis proximus orarius), garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis), and red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans). Within the Project Vicinity, additional herpetofaunal species of water moccasin (Agkistrodon piscivorus), spiny softshell turtle (Apalone spinifera), Texas spiny lizard (Sceloporus olivaceus), and common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) were observed. The list of herpetofauna observed within and near the Project Site is recorded in Table 3-11 (spring 2023), Table 3-12 (summer 2023), and Table 3-13 (fall 2023). Alligators, freshwater turtles (snapping turtles), and frogs (bullfrogs) are nongame species hunted and/or trapped in Texas (TPWD 2023a).
Table 3-11 Herpetofauna Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Spring 2023 Scientific Name Common Name On-site Vicinity Alligator mississippiensis American alligator X
X Apalone spinifera Spiny softshell turtle X
Incilius nebulifer Gulf coast toad X
Lithobates catesbeianus American bullfrog X
X Nerodia rhombifer Diamondback watersnake X
Plestiodon fasciatus Five-lined skink X
Sceloporus olivaceus Texas spiny lizard X
Thamnophis sirtalis Garter snake X
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 41 Trachemys scripta elegans Red-eared slider X
X Table 3-12 Herpetafauna Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Summer 2023 Scientific Name Common Name On-site Vicinity Alligator mississippiensis American alligator X
X Apalone spinifera Spiny softshell turtle X
Chelydra serpentina Common snapping turtle X
Incilius nebulifer Gulf coast toad X
Nerodia rhombifer Diamondback watersnake X
Trachemys scripta elegans Red-eared slider X
Table 3-13 Herpetafauna Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Fall 2023 Scientific Name Common Name On-site Vicinity Agkistrodon piscivorus Cottonmouth X
Alligator mississippiensis American alligator X
Apalone spinifera Spiny softshell turtle X
Nerodia rhombifer Diamondback watersnake X
Thamnophis proximus orarius Gulf Coast ribbon snake X
3.2 Aquatic Resources 3.2.1 Fish In summer 2023, a total of 19 fish species were observed during fish surveys. Abundant species observed included sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna), western mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis),
and sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus). A summary of fish species observed in summer surveys by waterbody is shown in Table 3-14. A total of 15 fish species were observed within West Coloma Creek during the summer survey, the most abundant of which was sailfin molly. Within the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority (GBRA) canal, a total of 10 species were observed, with the most abundant species being western mosquitofish. In the drainage outfall, a total of 6 species were observed, with the most abundant species being sheepshead minnow.
One site in West Coloma Creek (WCC-01) was not sampled as no water was present at this location during the summer sampling event.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 42 Table 3-14 Fish Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Summer 2023 Location Common Name Scientific Name Number Weight (g)
Collection Method*
Dow Drainage Canal Sheepshead minnow Cyprinodon variegatus 30 20.9 SE Striped mullet Mugil cephalus 9
172.4 SE Western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis 7
2.3 SE Threadfin shad Dorosoma petenense 3
17.0 SE Plains killifish Fundulus zebrinus 2
1.3 SE Sailfin molly Poecilia latipinna 1
0.5 SE Total 52 214.4 GBRA Canal Common carp Cyprinus carpio 1
1,067 EFB, EFP Smallmouth buffalo Ictiobus bubalus 4
2,714 EFB, EFP Gizzard shad Dorosoma cepedianum 1
9 EFB, EFP Sheepshead minnow Cyprinodon variegatus 2
2 EFB, EFP Western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis 58 45.2 EFB, EFP Largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides 1
1,322 EFB, EFP Spotted gar Lepisosteus oculatus 4
3,813 EFB, EFP Channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus 1
2,573 EFB, EFP Rio Grande cichlid Herichthys cyanoguttatus 2
1.6 EFB, EFP Sailfin molly Poecilia latipinna 4
0.6 EFB, EFP Total 78 11,547.4 West Coloma Creek Rio Grande cichlid Herichthys cyanoguttatus 1
1.9 EFP, SE Western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis 17 7.4 EFP, SE Warmouth Lepomis gulosus 3
40.7 EFP, SE Striped mullet Mugil cephalus 5
63.4 EFP, SE Sheepshead minnow Cyprinodon variegatus 1
0.6 EFP, SE Weed shiner Notropis texanus 1
0.3 EFP, SE Sailfin molly Poecilia latipinna 76 70.4 EFP, SE Spotted gar Lepisosteus oculatus 5
1,456 EFP, SE Mirror shiner Notropis spectrunculus 1
1.0 EFP, SE Smallmouth buffalo Ictiobus bubalus 1
2,083 EFP, SE Channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus 2
2.5 EFP, SE Largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides 1
0.5 EFP, SE Bluegill Lepomis macrochirus 1
1.5 EFP, SE Ladyfish Elops saurus 1
3.1 EFP, SE Bay anchovy Anchoa mitchilli 19 5.3 EFP, SE
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 43 Location Common Name Scientific Name Number Weight (g)
Collection Method*
Total 135 3,737.6
In fall 2023, a total of 23 fish species were observed during fish surveys. Abundant species observed included sailfin molly, western mosquitofish, and sheepshead minnow. A summary of fish species observed in fall surveys by waterbody is shown in Table 3-15. A total of 12 fish species were observed within West Coloma Creek during the fall survey, the most abundant of which was western mosquitofish. Within the GBRA canal, a total of 15 species were observed, with the most abundant species being sailfin molly and gizzard shad (Dorosoma cepedianum).
In the drainage outfall, a total of 8 species were observed, with the most abundant species being sheepshead minnow. One site in West Coloma Creek (WCC-01) was not sampled as no water was present at this location during the fall sampling event.
Table 3-15 Fish Species Observed in or near the Project Long Mott Project Site, Fall 2023 Location Common Name Scientific Name Number Weight (g)
Collection Method*
Dow Drainage Canal Striped mullet Mugil cephalus 7
163 SE Rio Grande cichlid Herichthys cyanoguttatus 10 9
SE Sailfin molly Poecilia latipinna 127 82 SE Western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis 17 6
SE Sheepshead minnow Cyprinodon variegatus 458 183 SE Inland silverside Menidia beryllina 2
4 SE Slough darter Etheostoma gracile 8
5 SE Spotted gar Lepisosteus oculatus 1
383 SE Total 630 835 GBRA Canal Smallmouth buffalo Ictiobus bubalus 2
2,322 EFB, EFP Rio Grande cichlid Herichthys cyanoguttatus 2
94 EFB, EFP Bullhead minnow Pimephales Vigilax 2
2 EFB, EFP Bluegill Lepomis macrochirus 1
68 EFB, EFP Largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides 1
135 EFB, EFP Channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus 2
2,623 EFB, EFP Gizzard shad Dorosoma cepedianum 11 40 EFB, EFP Longear sunfish Lepomis megalotis 2
25 EFB, EFP Green sunfish Lepomis cyanellus 3
22 EFB, EFP Sailfin molly Poecilia latipinna 11 20 EFB, EFP Bluefin killifish Lucania goodei 2
2 EFB, EFP
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 44 Location Common Name Scientific Name Number Weight (g)
Collection Method*
Western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis 5
2 EFB, EFP Gulf killifish Fundulus grandis 1
2 EFB, EFP Common carp Cyprinus carpio 1
1,306 EFB, EFP Spotted gar Lepisosteus oculatus 1
422 EFB, EFP Total 47 7,085 West Coloma Creek Sailfin molly Poecilia latipinna 48 21 EFB, SE Western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis 79 19 EFB, SE Bluefin killifish Lucania goodei 1
1 EFB, SE Bluegill Lepomis macrochirus 3
11 EFB, SE Green sunfish Lepomis cyanellus 1
7 EFB, SE Longear sunfish Lepomis megalotis 1
2 EFB, SE Alligator gar Atractosteus spatula 3
3,342 EFB, SE Spotted gar Lepisosteus oculatus 1
520 EFB, SE Inland silverside Menidia beryllina 1
1 EFB, SE Shortnose gar Lepisosteus platostomus 6
0 EFB, SE Bay anchovy Anchoa mitchilli 8
0 EFB, SE Red drum Sciaenops ocellatus 12 2
EFB, SE Total 164 3,926
In winter 2024, a total of 18 fish species were observed during fish surveys. Abundant species observed included sailfin molly, bay anchovy (Anchoa mitchilli), inland silverside (Menidia beryllina), and western mosquitofish. A summary of fish species observed in winter surveys by waterbody is provided in Table 3-16. A total of 11 fish species were observed within West Coloma Creek during the winter survey, the most abundant of which was sailfin molly. Within the GBRA canal, a total of 11 species were observed, with the most abundant species being common carp (Cyprinus carpio). In the drainage outfall, a total of 3 species were observed, with the most abundant species being sailfin molly.
Table 3-16 Fish Species Observed in or near the Long Mott Project Site, Winter 2024 Location Common Name Scientific Name Number Weight (g)
Collection Method*
Drainage Canal Sheepshead Minnow Cyprinodon variegatus 13 9.2 EFP Sailfin Molly Poecilia latipinna 33 19.3 EFP Western Mosquitofish Gambusia affinis 24 6.1 EFP Total 70 34.6
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 45 Location Common Name Scientific Name Number Weight (g)
Collection Method*
GBRA Canal Redear Sunfish Lepomis microlophus 2
39 EFP Longear Sunfish Lepomis megalotis 3
48 EFP Bluegill Lepomis macrochirus 3
29 EFP Gizzard Shad Dorosoma cepedianum 1
9 EFP Longnose Gar Lepisosteus osseus 3
3299 EFP Smallmouth Buffalo Ictiobus bubalus 3
2269 EFP Common Carp Cyprinus carpio 5
5329 EFP Warmouth Lepomis gulosus 1
81 EFP Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus 2
1607 EFP Western Mosquitofish Gambusia affinis 1
0.5 EFP Weed shiner Notropis texanus 1
0.5 EFP Total 25 12711 West Coloma Creek Sailfin Molly Poecilia latipinna 69 46.6 EFP, SE Western Mosquitofish Gambusia affinis 9
4.1 EFP, SE Bluefin Killifish Lucania goodei 3
1.3 EFP, SE Gizzard Shad Dorosoma cepedianum 1
265 EFP, SE Warmouth Lepomis gulosus 5
55.9 EFP, SE Bluegill Lepomis macrochirus 1
1.5 EFP, SE Plains Killifish Fundulus zebrinus 3
5.1 EFP, SE Inland Silverside Menidia beryllina 33 22.7 EFP, SE Bay Anchovy Anchoa mitchilli 49 11.1 EFP, SE Sheepshead Minnow Cyprinodon variegatus 17 11.3 EFP, SE Naked Goby Gobiosoma bosc 1
In spring 2024, a total of 17 fish species were observed during fish surveys. Abundant species observed included western mosquitofish, sailfin molly, and gizzard shad. A summary of fish species observed in spring surveys by waterbody is provided in Table 3-17. A total of 10 fish species were observed within West Coloma Creek during the spring survey, the most abundant of which was western mosquitofish. Within the GBRA canal, a total of 11 species were observed, with the most abundant species being western mosquitofish. In the drainage outfall, a total of five species were observed, with the most abundant species being sheepshead minnow.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 46 Table 3-17 Fish Species Observed in or near the Long Mott Project Site, Spring 2024 Location Common Name Scientific Name Number Weight (g)
Collection Method*
Dow Drainage Canal Sheepshead minnow Cyprinodon variegatus 13 15.8 EFP Sailfin molly Poecilia latipinna 5
1.1 EFP Western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis 3
1.8 EFP Alligator gar Atractosteus spatula 1
3584 EFP Bluefin killifish Lucania goodei 1
0.02 EFP Total 23 3586.92 GBRA Canal Western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis 46 3.5 EFB, EFP Common carp Cyprinus carpio 6
9825 EFB, EFP Sailfin molly Poecilia latipinna 6
1.3 EFB, EFP Spotted gar Lepisosteus oculatus 5
4880 EFB, EFP Smallmouth buffalo Ictiobus bubalus 5
2337 EFB, EFP Largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides 4
3086 EFB, EFP Bluegill Lepomis macrochirus 3
96 EFB, EFP Channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus 3
4645 EFB, EFP Bluefin killifish Lucania goodei 2
0.5 EFB, EFP Longnose gar Lepisosteus osseus 2
3623 EFB, EFP Warmouth Lepomis gulosus 1
93 EFB, EFP Total 83 28590.3 West Coloma Creek Western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis 59 3.9 EFP, SE Sailfin molly Poecilia latipinna 42 54.2 EFP, SE Gizzard shad Dorosoma cepedianum 40 20.4 EFP, SE Red drum Sciaenops ocellatus 3
1.7 EFP, SE Inland silverside Menidia beryllina 2
2 EFP, SE Spotted gar Lepisosteus oculatus 2
1261 EFP, SE Striped mullet Mugil cephalus 2
101 EFP, SE Sheepshead minnow Cyprinodon variegatus 1
4.1 EFP, SE Bluegill Lepomis macrochirus 1
3.7 EFP, SE Warmouth Lepomis gulosus 1
Recreationally important fish species encountered included largemouth bass and channel catfish, which were encountered in the GBRA canal and West Coloma Creek. Additional game species encountered in West Coloma Creek include warmouth, bluegill, and red drum.
Commercially important aquatic species encountered during aquatic ecology sampling include red drum and white shrimp.
The only non-native fish species observed were common carp and Rio Grande cichlid (Herichthys cyanoguttatus). Other non-native or nuisance species observed in aquatic ecology
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 47 sampling included apple snail (Pomacea maculata), water hyacinth (Eichoria crassipes), and Eurasian milfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum). Water hyacinth was present only in the GBRA Canal, while Eurasian milfoil was observed in both the GBRA Canal and West Coloma Creek.
No threatened or endangered fish species were identified at any location. The only state listed species of concern noted in seasonal aquatic ecology sampling was alligator gar (Atractosteus spatula), which was encountered in West Coloma Creek in fall 2023 seasonal survey.
3.2.2 Macroinvertebrates In addition to fish, macroinvertebrates were sampled during the fall 2023 and spring 2024 aquatic ecology surveys. Fall macroinvertebrate sampling occurred on November 7-9, 2023. A total of 68 distinct taxa were encountered in macroinvertebrate sampling. A full list of taxa can be found in Table 3-18. The most individuals were encountered in West Coloma Creek (n=409) followed by the GBRA Calhoun Canal (n=338). Similarly, diversity was greatest in West Coloma Creek, with 41 distinct taxa encountered. The GBRA Calhoun Canal and Dow Drainage Canal had similar levels of macroinvertebrate diversity, with 25 and 23 distinct taxa, respectively. The most abundant taxa was a Chironomid (Tanypus sp., 20.86%) followed by a taxa of Lymnaeid snails (Pyrgophorous sp., 14.11%) and an annelid worm in the family Naididae (11.45%).
Table 3-18 Macroinvertebrates Encountered in the Vicinity of the Long Mott Project Site by Water Body, Fall 2023 Common Name Family Taxa (genus)
West Coloma Creek GBRA Calhoun Canal Dow Drainage Canal Total Number Percent of Total Flies and Midges Simulidae 1
1 0.10 Ceratopogonidae 4
4 0.41 Culicodes sp.
1 1
0.10 Dasyhelea sp.
17 17 1.73 Chironomidae 2
2 0.20 Suborder:
Chironaminae 1
1 0.10 Larsia sp.
38 38 3.88 Tanypus sp.
203 1
1 205 20.92 Dicrotendipes sp.
4 1
5 0.51 Tanytarsus sp.
7 7
0.71 Microtendipes sp.
3 3
0.31 Chironomus sp.
3 3
0.31 Polypedilum sp.
1 1
2 0.20 Cryptochironomus sp.
3 3
0.31 Coelotanypus sp.
1 15 16 1.63 Limoniidae Limonia sp.
17 17 1.73 Stratiomyidae Odontomyia sp.
2 2
0.20 Tanyderidae 1
1 0.10
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 48 Common Name Family Taxa (genus)
West Coloma Creek GBRA Calhoun Canal Dow Drainage Canal Total Number Percent of Total Annelid Worms Naididae (Tubificidae)
Group II 4
1 5
0.51 Group III 2
2 0.20 Group V 1
7 104 112 11.43 Nais sp.
2 2
0.20 Dero sp.
1 1
0.10 Pristina sp.
8 8
0.82 Branchiura sowerbyi 2
1 3
0.31 Limnodrilus sp.
2 71 73 7.45 Tubifex tubifex 1
1 0.10 Aulodrilus sp.
11 11 1.12 Lumbriculidae 1
1 0.10 Tipulidae Ormosia sp.
1 1
0.10 Corethrellidae Corethrella sp.
1 1
0.10 Molluscs Planorbidae Drepanotrema sp.
6 1
2 9
0.92 Menetus sp.
2 7
1 10 1.02 Hydrobiidae 1
1 2
0.20 Pyrgulopsis sp.
1 1
0.10 Pyrgophorus sp.
0 0.00 Thiaridae Melanoides sp.
60 60 6.12 Melanoides tuberculata 16 16 1.63 Cyrenidae Corbicula sp.
49 4
53 5.41 Ampullaridae 1
1 0.10 Ancylidae Hebetancylus sp.
25 25 2.55 Lymnaeidae Stagnicola sp.
2 2
0.20 Lymnaea sp.
1 1
0.10 Pseudosuccinea sp.
1 1
0.10 Pyrgophorus sp.
1 136 1
138 14.08 Physidae Physa sp.
16 8
24 2.45 Unionidae 2
2 0.20 Gastropoda 1
1 0.10 Bivalvia Pteriomorphia 1
3 4
0.41 Unidentified Bivalvia 1
1 0.10 Unidentified mollusca 1
6 7
0.71 Amphipods Hyalellidae Hyallela sp.
18 5
23 2.35 Mayflies Caenidae Caenis sp.
1 1
0.10 Baetidae Callibaetis sp.
5 5
0.51 Dragonflies/damselfies Gomphidae 1
1 0.10 Arigomphus sp.
1 1
0.10 Coenagrionidae Acanthagrion sp.
5 5
0.51
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 49 Common Name Family Taxa (genus)
West Coloma Creek GBRA Calhoun Canal Dow Drainage Canal Total Number Percent of Total Beetles Elmidae Heterelmis sp.
1 1
0.10 Dysticidae 0
0.00 Hydrophilidae Berosus sp.
16 16 1.63 Tropisternus sp.
1 0.00 Paracymus sp.
1 1
0.10 True bugs Naucoridae Pelocoris sp.
2 2
0.20 Notonectidae Buenoa sp.
2 2
0.20 Corixidae 3
3 0.31 Trichocorixa sp.
8 8
0.82 Gerridae 1
1 0.10 Collembola Isotomidae Isotoma sp.
1 1
0.10 Copepods Cyclopidae 1
1 0.10 Leafhoppers Cicadellidae 1
1 0.10 Total 412 338 231 980 100 Spring macroinvertebrate sampling occurred on May 21-23, 2024. A total of 50 distinct taxa were encountered in macroinvertebrate sampling, which was fewer taxa than observed in fall sampling. A full list of taxa can be found in Table 3-19. The most individuals were encountered in the Dow Discharge Canal (n=546) followed by West Coloma Creek (n=365). Diversity was greatest in the GBRA Calhoun Canal, with 30 distinct taxa encountered. Similarly, West Coloma Creek had relatively high diversity with 28 distinct taxa. In the Dow Drainage Canal, only 8 distinct taxa were observed. The most abundant taxa was in the Corixidae family (Trichocorixa sp., 30.79%) followed by a taxa of hydrobid snails (Stygopyrgus sp., 15.88%).
Table 3-19 Macroinvertebrates Encountered in the Vicinity of the Long Mott Project Site by Water Body, Spring 2024 Common Name Family Taxa (genus)
West Coloma Creek GBRA Calhoun Canal Dow Drainage Canal Total Number Percent of Total Flies and Midges Stratiomyidae Nemotelus sp.
1 1
0.08 Heriodiscus sp.
1 1
0.08 Ceratopogonidae Forcipomyia sp.
1 1
0.08 Chironomidae 1
1 0.08 Tanypus sp.
5 5
0.41 Dicrotendipes sp.
4 4
0.32 Chironomus sp.
5 5
0.41 Polypedilum sp.
1 7
8 0.65 Annelid Worms Naididae (Tubificidae)
Group IV 46 3
49 3.97 Dero sp.
6 1
7 0.57
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 50 Common Name Family Taxa (genus)
West Coloma Creek GBRA Calhoun Canal Dow Drainage Canal Total Number Percent of Total Branchiura sowerbyi 1
1 0.08 Limnodrilus sp.
9 1
10 0.81 Molluscs Planorbidae Drepanotrema sp.
1 1
0.08 Helisoma sp.
1 7
8 0.65 Hydrobiidae 6
6 0.49 Pyrgophorus sp.
5 146 151 12.24 Stygopyrgus sp.
1 195 196 15.88 Thiaridae Melanoides sp.
44 44 3.57 Cyrenidae Corbicula sp.
6 6
0.49 Ancylidae Hebetancylus sp.
6 6
0.49 Physidae Physa sp.
6 35 41 3.32 Gastropoda 1
1 0.08 Budyconidae 1
1 0.08 Bivalvia Pteriomorphia 4
4 0.32 Amphipods Amphipoda 1
1 0.08 Hyalellidae Hyallela sp.
38 19 57 4.62 Corophiidae Apocorophium lacustre 1
1 0.08 Gammaridae Gammarus sp.
11 11 0.89 Mayflies Caenidae Caenis sp.
2 1
3 0.24 Baetidae Callibaetis sp.
135 41 6
182 14.75 Dragonflies/damselfies 1
1 0.08 Coenagrionidae Acanthagrion sp.
3 3
0.24 Ischnura sp.
8 5
13 1.05 Beetles Elmidae Heterelmis sp.
0 0.00 Curculionidae 1
1 0.08 Dytiscidae Dytiscus sp.
1 1
0.08 Hydroporus sp.
1 1
0.08 Hydrophilidae Berosus sp.
2 1
1 4
0.32 Cymbiodyta sp.
1 1
0.08 Hydrophilus sp.
1 1
0.08 Helophoridae Helophorus sp.
2 2
0.16 Chrysomelidae 1
1 0.08 Scirtidae Prionocyphon sp.
1 1
0.08 Scirtes sp.
2 2
0.16 True bugs Naucoridae Pelocoris sp.
0 0.00 Hemiptera 1
1 0.08 Belostomatidae Abedus sp.
1 5
6 0.49 Saldidae 1
1 0.08 Corixidae Trichocorixa sp.
39 3
338 380 30.79 Veliidae Microvelia sp.
1 1
0.08 Total 323 365 546 1234 100
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 51 Shellfish were opportunistically sampled during fish sampling activities. A summary of shellfish encountered can be found in Table 3-20. The most abundant shellfish encountered was white shrimp.
Table 3-20 Shellfish Species Encountered in Aquatic Ecology Sampling Water Body Common Name Scientific Name Number, Fall 2023
- Number, Spring 2024 West Coloma Creek Red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii 1
2 White river crayfish Procambarus acutus 1
Blue crab Callinectes sapidus 29 1
White shrimp Litopenaeus setiferus 123 220 GBRA Canal White shrimp Litopenaeus setiferus 68 81 Dow Drainage Canal White shrimp Litopenaeus setiferus 287 5
Blue crab Callinectes sapidus 3
Two non-native macroinvertebrates were encountered in sampling. These included the non-native aquatic worm, Branchiura sowerbyi, and one non-native snail, Melanoides tuberculata.
Other non-native or nuisance species observed on-site during sampling activities, but not observed in samples included apple snail (Pomacea maculata). Commercially important macroinvertebrates encountered include white shrimp. Recreational species include blue crab, white shrimp, and red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkia).
3.3 Important Species and Habitats Information from the USFWS IPaC, NOAA, and TPWD were reviewed to identify important species and habitats potentially occurring within or near the Project Site. Important species are summarized in the following sections.
3.3.1 State and Federally Listed Species As part of the desktop analysis, a list of protected species potentially occurring within or near the Project Site was developed and is presented in Table 3-21 and summarized in the following paragraphs.
Table 3-21 Protected Species Potentially Occurring within or near the Project Long Mott Project Site Common Name Scientific Name Status Federal(a)
State(b)
Suitable Habitat Present in Project Area(c)
Fish Alligator gar Atractosteus spatula S
P Oceanic whitetip shark Carcharhinus longimanus T
T N
Saltmarsh topminnow Fundulus jenkinsi S
N Shortfin mako shark Isurus oxyrinchus T
N
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 52 Common Name Scientific Name Status Federal(a)
State(b)
Suitable Habitat Present in Project Area(c)
Opossum pipefish Microphis brachyurus S
N Southern flounder Paralichthys lethostigma S
N Birds Sprague's pipit Anthus spragueii S
P Western burrowing owl Athene cunicularia hypugaea S
N White-tailed hawk Buteo albicaudatus T
P Red knot Calidris canutus rufa T
T N
Piping plover Charadrius melodus T
T N
Reddish egret Egretta rufescens T
N Swallow-tailed kite Elanoides forficatus T
N Northern aplomado falcon Falco femoralis septentrionalis E
E N
Eastern black rail Laterallus jamaicensis T
T N
Franklin's gull Leucophaeus pipixcan S
N Whooping crane Grus americana E
E N
Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus S
N Wood stork Mycteria americana T
N Black skimmer Rynchops niger S
N White-faced ibis Plegadis chihi T
N Reptiles and Amphibians Woodhouse's toad Anaxyrus woodhousii S
N Loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta T
T N
Texas scarlet snake Cemophora lineri T
P Green sea turtle Chelonia mydas T
T N
Leatherback sea turtle Dermochelys coriacea E
N Hawksbills sea turtle Eretmochelys imbricata E
E N
Kemp's Ridley sea turtle Lepidochelys kempii E
E N
Southern crawfish frog Lithobates areolatus areolatus S
N Texas diamondback terrapin Malaclemys terrapin littoralis S
N Salt marsh snake Nerodia clarkii S
N Black-spotted newt Notophthalmus meridionalis T
P Slender glass lizard Ophisaurus attenuatus S
N Texas horned lizard Phrynosoma cornutum T
N Prairie skink Plestiodon septentrionalis S
N Strecker's chorus frog Pseudacris streckeri S
N Western massasauga Sistrurus tergeminus S
N Eastern box turtle Terrapene carolina S
P Western box turtle Terrapene ornata S
P Insects American bumblebee Bombus pensylvanicus S
P Monarch butterfly Danaus plexippus C
P Mollusks Live oak glass Nesovitrea suzannae S
N
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 53 Common Name Scientific Name Status Federal(a)
State(b)
Suitable Habitat Present in Project Area(c)
Mammals Sei whale Balaenoptera borealis E
E N
Blue whale Balaenoptera musculus E
E N
Gulf of Mexico Bryde's whale Balaenoptera ricei E
E N
Western hog-nosed skunk Conepatus leuconotus S
N Padre Island kangaroo rat Dipodomys compactus compactus S
N North Atlantic right whale Eubalaena glacialis E
E N
Eastern red bat Lasiurus borealis S
N Hoary bat Lasiurus cinereus S
N Northern yellow bat Lasiurus intermedius S
N Humpback whale Megaptera novaeangliae E
S N
Long-tailed weasel Mustela frenata S
P White-nosed coati Nasua narica T
N Big free-tailed bat Nyctinomops macrotis S
N Tricolored bat Perimyotis subflavus PE S
N Sperm whale Physeter macrocephalus E
E N
Mountain lion Puma concolor S
N Eastern spotted skunk Spilogale putorius S
P Swamp rabbit Sylvilagus aquaticus S
N West Indian manatee Trichechus manatus T
T N
Plants Sand brazos mint Brazoria arenaria S
N Marsh-elder dodder Cuscuta attenuata S
N Velvet spurge Euphorbia innocua S
N Coastal gay-feather Liatris bracteata S
P Seaside beebalm Monarda maritima S
N Texas peachbush Prunus texana S
N Indianola beakrush Rhynchospora indianolensis S
P Threeflower broomweed Thurovia triflora S
P Texas willkommia Willkommia texana var. texana S
N
Reference:
USFWS 2024; TPWD 2024.
a)
Federal Status Codes:
T = Listed Threatened C = Candidate E = Listed Endangered PE = Proposed Endangered b)
State Status Codes:
E = Listed Endangered S = Listed Sensitive T = Listed Threatened c)
Habitat Codes:
N = No records of species within the Project Site and no suitable habitat is present P = Potentially suitable habitat is present In order to inform X-energy of the potential for consultation in accordance with Section 7(c) of the ESA, as amended, a listing of federally threatened or endangered species currently listed or
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 54 candidate species proposed for listing that may occur within the Project Site was obtained from the USFWS IPaC website and TPWD Calhoun County list of rare species in July 2024 (USFWS 2024; TPWD 2024). The USFWS IPaC and TPWD Calhoun County list identified eleven endangered species: Northern aplomado falcon (Falco femoralis septentrionalis), whooping crane (Grus americana), leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), hawksbills sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), Kemps Ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys kempii), sei whale (Balaenoptera borealis), blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus), Gulf of Mexico bryde's whale (Balaenoptera ricei), North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis), Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae), and sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus); seven threatened species: Oceanic whitetip shark (Carcharhinus longimanus), red knot (Calidris canutus rufa),
piping plover (Charadrius melodus), Eastern black rail (Laterallus jamaicensis), Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta), green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), and West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus); and one candidate species: monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus). One species proposed as endangered was identified by the USFWS IPac: tricolored bat (Perimyotis subflavus) (Table 3-21) (USFWS 2024). None of the federally threatened, endangered, or proposed species identified through IPaC were observed in the Project Site or have suitable habitat present in the Project Site. The federal candidate species monarch butterfly has suitable habitat within the Project Site due to the observed milkweed host plant species recorded in the northeast herbaceous portion of the Project Site. No critical habitat was identified on the IPaC system results. As discussed in Section 2.2.2, the USFWS IPaC also identified twenty-two migratory birds of conservation concern that have the potential to occur on the site. Three of these migratory birds (bald eagle, black skimmer, and swallow-tailed kite) are state sensitive species and are discussed in Table 3-21.
The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has established Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) as important habitat for aquatic species that may occur in Gudalupe Bay, Mission Lake, or Victoria Barge Canal in the Project Vicinity. Species with EFH identified within the vicinity of the project site are listed and discussed in Section 3.3.2 (NOAA 2023). No EFH exists within the Project Site or in the freshwater stream systems on-site or in the vicinity.
A review of the TPWD Calhoun County list of rare species in July 2024 identified nine state endangered species, seventeen state threatened species, and forty-two state sensitive species within Calhoun County (Table 3-21) (TPWD 2024).
Based on a review of habitat requirements for each of the wildlife species listed in Table 3-21, potentially suitable habitat is present within the Project Site for three state threatened species:
white-tailed hawk, Texas scarlet snake (Cemophora lineri), and black-spotted newt (Notophthalmus meridionalis). The white-tailed hawk was observed on-site and within the vicinity during spring 2023 surveys and in the vicinity during summer and fall 2023. Since the white-tailed hawk was observed perched on a transmission line tower and as a flyover to these areas and no raptor nests were observed, the white-tailed hawk likely uses the site and the vicinity to forage and not breed. The Texas scarlet snake was not observed on-site but has the potential to occur within the Project Site based on the presence of preferred scrub habitat in the southern portion of the site and the herbaceous scrub habitat in northeast portion of site. The black-spotted newt was not observed on-site but has the potential to occur within the Project
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 55 Site based on the presence of preferred scrub-shrub and emergent wetlands in southwest corner of site.
Based on a review of habitat requirements for each of the wildlife and plant species listed in Table 3-21, potentially suitable habitat is present within the Project Site for ten state sensitive species: alligator gar (Atractosteus spatula), Spragues pipit (Anthus spragueii), eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina), western box turtle (Terrapene ornata), American bumblebee (Bombus pensylvanicus), long-tailed weasel (Mustela frenata), eastern spotted skunk (Spilogale putorius), coastal gay-feather (Liatris bracteata), Indianola beakrush (Rhynchospora indianolensis), and threeflower broomweed (Thurovia triflora). Alligator gar was not recorded within the Project Site during seasonal field surveys but was collected south of the site in West Coloma Creek. Spragues pipit was not recorded on-site or within the vicinity but has the potential to occur within the Project Site based upon the presence of preferred weedy fields and herbaceous cover in northeast, west and southwest portions of the site. The eastern and western box turtles were not recorded on-site or within the vicinity but have the potential to occur within the Project Site based upon the presence of preferred fields throughout much of the site. The American bumblebee was not recorded on-site or within the vicinity but has the potential to occur within the Project Site based upon the presence of preferred farmlands and open fields throughout much of the site. Long-tailed weasel was not recorded on-site or within the vicinity but has the potential to occur within the Project Site based upon the presence of preferred brushlands and fence rows in the southern and northeast portions of the site. Eastern spotted skunk was not recorded on-site or within the vicinity but has the potential to occur within the Project Site based upon the presence of preferred croplands and fencerows throughout much of the site and brushy scrub-shrub in southern portion of site. Less than ten stems of Indianola beakrush were identified in low, wet areas of two heavily-to moderately-grazed upland cattle and goat pastures in the southeastern portion of the Project Site. No other state sensitive vascular plant species were identified during spring, summer, or fall surveys; however, marginal potential habitat does exist on-site for the coastal gay-feather and threeflower broomweed. Both species are historically found in coastal prairies, and while degradation to this habitat type is recognized as a potential threat to their survival, both species have been observed to possess some resilience to habitat disturbance and have been observed in converted prairie lands along roadsides, railroads, and pastures. Therefore, potential habitat likely exists in the open pastures herbaceous lands of the Project Site, in particular, within the large rectangular field south of the railyard in the northeast portion of the site (Figure 2-1).
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 56 3.3.2 Additional Important Species and Habitats As stated in Section 3.1, recreationally valuable game species, based on TPWD hunting regulations (TPWD 2023a), observed within the Project Site included Northern bobwhite, mourning dove, white-tailed deer, and warmouth. Species observed in the Project Vicinity that are recreationally valuable as game species include Northern pintail, green-winged teal, sandhill crane, Northern bobwhite, black-bellied whistling-duck, American coot, Wilsons snipe, common gallinule, gadwall, wild turkey, red-breasted merganser, Northern shoveler, blue-winged teal, mourning dove, white-tailed deer, largemouth bass, channel catfish, warmouth, bluegill, and red drum. Commercially important aquatic species encountered during aquatic ecology sampling included red drum and white shrimp. Opossum, nutria, raccoon, and striped skunk are recreationally valuable as furbearers as listed by TPWD hunting regulations. Alligators, snapping turtles, feral hogs, and coyotes are non-game species also hunted in Texas (TPWD 2023a). No commercially valuable species, species essential to the maintenance and survival of rare or commercially or recreationally valuable species, species critical to the structure and function of local terrestrial ecosystems, or species that could serve as biological indicators of effects on local terrestrial ecosystems were observed in the Project Site.
The NMFS has established EFH, identified herein as important habitat for aquatic species that may occur in Gudalupe Bay or Mission Lake, including within the Victoria Barge Canal. Species for which EFH exists within the vicinity of the project site are listed in Table 3-22 (NOAA 2023).
No EFH exists in freshwater stream systems in on-site or the vicinity of the Project Site. Other important aquatic habitats in the vicinity of the Project Site include marine oyster water. Oyster waters are located in estuarine areas within Gudalupe Bay and Mission Lake. These oyster waters are listed as impaired on the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) 303(d) listed for presence of fecal coliform (TCEQ 2022).
Table 3-22:
Species for which Essential Fish Habitat Exists in Guadalupe Bay within the Vicinity of the Long Mott Project Site Species/Management Unit Scientific Name Life Stage Potentially Found in Guadalupe Bay Atlantic sharpnose shark (Gulf of Mexico Stock)
Rhizoprionodon terraenovae Juvenile/Adult, Neonate Blacktip shark (Gulf of Mexico stock)
Carcharhinus limbatus Neonate Bonnethead shark (Gulf of Mexico stock)
Sphyrna tiburo Adult, Juvenile, Neonate Bull shark Carcharhinus leucas Juvenile/Adult, Neonate Coastal Migratory Pelagic Fishes N/A All
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 57 Species/Management Unit Scientific Name Life Stage Potentially Found in Guadalupe Bay Lemon Shark Negaprion brevirostris
- Juvenile, Neonate Red Drum Sciaenops ocellatus All Reef fish (43 species)
N/A All Scalloped hammerhead shark Sphyrna lewini Neonate Commercially Harvested Shrimp Brown shrimp (Penaeus aztecus); White shrimp (Penaeus setiferus); Pink shrimp (Penaeus duorarum); Royal red shrimp (Pleoticus robustus)
All Spinner Shark Carcharhinus brevipinna Neonate Source: NOAA 2023 TPWD Rare Plant Communities of Texas (RPCT) report (TPWD 2011) identified five priority plant communities within Calhoun County: Black Mangrove Shrubland, Colima-Panalero-Chapote Matorral, Seacoast Bluestem-Gulfdune Crowngrass Herbaceous Vegetation, Texas Coastal Bend Interdune Swale Grassland, and Texas Coastal Bend Live Oak-Redbay Forest, none of which are located in the Project Site. During off-site reconnaissance of natural vegetation communities, a representative example of the Texas Coastal Bend Interdune Swale Grassland was identified approximately 13 miles to the southeast of the Project Site along Lane Road south of Seadrift, just east of the Welder Flats Wildlife Management Area. This community was found in sandy soils in the low swales between dunes and the dominant species observed were sharp clubrush (Schoenoplectus pungens) and switchgrass (Panicum virgatum). Additional associates identified include Carolina fimbry (Fimbristylis caroliniana), saltmarsh umbrella sedge (Fuirena breviseta), Florida bluehearts (Buchnera floridanum), rosy palafox (Palafoxia rosea),
torpedo grass (Panicum repens), Gulf coast swallowwort (Pattalias palustre), starrush whitetop (Rhynchospora colorata), and southern beaksedge (Rhynchospora microcarpa). While the 2011 TPWD RPCT lists this community as State Imperiled (S2), according to NatureServe (2022a),
from which this community concept is derived, this community is apparently no longer state-ranked but is still considered Globally Imperiled (G2).
Other than wetlands described in Section 3.1.1, there are no other important habitats as defined by NUREG-1555 (wildlife sanctuaries, refuges, or preserves, habitats identified by State or Federal agencies as unique, rare, or of priority for protection, land areas identified as critical habitat for species listed as threatened or endangered by the USFWS) within the Project Site.
A portion of the Guadalupe Delta Wildlife Management Area is within the Project Vicinity and located approximately 2.7mi west of the Project Site. It was identified by the USFWS and TPWD as a wetlands area that needs to be preserved to protect the wildlife habitat. It is a complex of natural and manmade wetlands and associated adjacent uplands in the vicinity of the delta of
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 58 the Guadalupe River. The area consists of four units, Mission Lake Unit (1,138 acres), Hynes Bay Unit (1,008 acres), Guadalupe River Unit (1,138 acres), and the San Antonio Unit (818 acres) (TPWD 2023b). The Misson Lake Unit is located within the Project Vicinity. The units of the Guadalupe Delta are freshwater marshes subject to flooding from the Guadalupe River and its adjacent bayous. Riparian areas along the numerous small bayous provide forage areas for neotropical songbirds. The Guadalupe Delta Wildlife Management Area has traditionally provided habitat for wetland-dependent wildlife, especially migratory waterfowl. Permitted waterfowl hunted is offered. The Guadalupe Delta Wildlife Management Area is depicted in Figure 3-3 and is considered important habitat in the Project Vicinity.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 59 4
Summary Pedestrian and general reconnaissance surveys were conducted within the Project Site to collect seasonal ecological field data descriptive of threatened and endangered species and the potential occurrence of their preferred habitats, resident plant communities, and wildlife populations (including important species and habitats).
To account for seasonal variability of wildlife use within the site, surveys were conducted in the winter (February 2023), spring (May 2023), summer (August 2023), and fall (November 2023).
Aquatic resource surveys were conducted during summer (August 2023), fall (November 2023),
winter (January 2024) and spring (May 2024). Seasonal surveys for vegetation were conducted in the spring, summer, and fall 2023. Vegetation habitat types within the Project Site primarily include cultivated crops, herbaceous, developed-medium intensity, and shrub-scrub. Avian observations during the winter 2023, spring 2023, summer 2023, and fall 2023 surveys included 17, 36, 33, and 20 avian species, respectively. Eight mammal species and eight herpetofaunal species were observed within the Project Site during seasonal surveys. A total of 15 fish species were observed within West Coloma Creek during the summer 2023 survey, 12 fish species during the fall 2023 survey, 11 fish species during the winter 2024 survey, and 10 fish species during the spring 2024 survey. Recreationally valuable game species observed within the Project Site included Northern bobwhite, mourning dove, white-tailed deer, and warmouth.
Opossum, raccoon, and striped skunk are recreationally valuable as furbearers with alligators, snapping turtles, bullfrogs, feral hogs, and coyotes are nongame species also hunted and/or trapped in Texas. No commercially valuable species, species essential to the maintenance and survival of rare or commercially or recreationally valuable species, species critical to the structure and function of local terrestrial ecosystems, or species that could serve as biological indicators of effects on local terrestrial ecosystems were observed in the Project Site. The recreationally valuable species observed on-site would be considered common to the region and typical of the habitat types within the Project Site, vicinity, and region.
Field avian surveys include a characterization of relative abundance based upon occurrence during the field surveys and included those that were commonly encountered and those that were rarely or uncommonly encountered. However, the identified species are generally considered to be occasional or common within the region. The white-tailed hawk, state listed as threatened by TPWD, was observed within the Project Site and within the Project Vicinity. Since the white-tailed hawk was only observed perched on a transmission line tower and as a flyover to these areas and no raptor nests were observed, the white-tailed hawk likely uses the site and vicinity to forage. The wood stork, state listed as threatened by TPWD, was observed in the Project Vicinity during summer 2023. The wood stork was not observed within the Project Site.
Bald eagle, identified by USFWS as a migratory bird of conservation concern and protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, was observed within the Project Vicinity but no raptor nests were observed. The federal candidate species monarch butterfly has suitable habitat within the Project Site due to the observed milkweed host plant species recorded in the northeast herbaceous portion of the Project Site. No other candidate, threatened, or endangered species (wildlife or plants) were observed as part of the seasonal field studies.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 60 Potentially suitable habitat is present within the Project Site for two other state threatened species (Texas scarlet snake and black-spotted newt). The Texas scarlet snake and black-spotted newt were not observed during the 2023 field surveys, and none are known to occur in the Project Site.
Potentially suitable habitat is present within the Project Site for ten state sensitive species:
alligator gar, Spragues pipit, eastern box turtle, western box turtle, American bumblebee, long-tailed weasel, eastern spotted skunk, coastal gay-feather, Indianola beakrush, and threeflower broomweed. Alligator gar was not recorded within the Project Site during seasonal field surveys but was collected south and downstream of the Project Site in West Coloma Creek. Less than ten stems of Indianola beakrush were identified in low, wet areas of two heavily-to moderately-grazed upland cattle and goat pastures in the southeastern portion of the Project Site. No other state sensitive wildlife or vascular plant species were identified during seasonal surveys. Other than the WOTUS-delineated wetlands and features described in Section 3.1.1, field investigations have concluded that the Project Site is disturbed and does not include unique or sensitive habitat.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 61 5
References Dewitz, J., and U.S. Geological Survey, 2021, National Land Cover Database (NLCD) 2019 Products (ver. 2.0, June 2021): U.S. Geological Survey data release. Available online at https://doi.org/10.5066/P9KZCM54. Accessed November 2023.
Exelon Generation, 2012. Victoria County Station, Early Site Permit Application Part 03, Environmental Report. May 2012.
Griffith, G., Bryce, S., Omernik, J., and Rogers, A. 2007. Ecoregions of Texas (text, map, summary tables, and photographs): Corvallis, Oregon, U.S. Geological Survey. Available online at http://www.ecologicalregions.info/data/tx/TXeco_Jan08_v8_Cmprsd.pdf.
Accessed June 2023.
NatureServe. 2022a. Spartina patens - Fimbristylis (caroliniana, castanea) - (Panicum virgatum)
Marsh. Available online at https://explorer.natureserve.org/Taxon/ELEMENT_GLOBAL.2.688274/Spartina_patens_
-_Fimbristylis_(caroliniana_castanea)_-_(Panicum_virgatum)_Marsh. Accessed November 2023.
NatureServe. 2022b. Texas-Louisiana Coastal Prairie. Available online at https://explorer.natureserve.org/Taxon/ELEMENT_GLOBAL.2.723052/Texas-Louisiana_Coastal_Prairie. Accessed November 2023.
NOAA. 2023. NOAA Fisheries Essential Fish Habitat Mapper, National Marine Fisheries Service. Website: https://www.habitat.noaa.gov/apps/efhmapper/?page=page_1, Date accessed: October 10, 2023.
Soil Survey Staff, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). 2023 United States Department of Agriculture. Web Soil Survey. Available online:
https://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/ Accessed November 2023.
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). 2022. 2022 Texas Integrated Report -
Texas 303(d) List (Category 5). July 7, 2022.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). 2011. Species of Greatest Conservation Need.
Available online at https://tpwd.texas.gov/landwater/land/tcap/sgcn.phtml. Accessed November 2023.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). 2023a. 2023-2024 Texas Parks and Wildlife Hunting Regulations. Available online at pwd_bk_l2000_1170a.pdf (texas.gov).
Accessed November 2023.
TPWD, 2023b. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Guadalupe Delta WMP. Website:
https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/hunt/wma/find_a_wma/list/?id=37, Date accessed November 2023.
TPWD. 2024. Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Annotated County Lists of Rare Species, Calhoun County. Accessed July 2024.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 62 United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2024. Information for Planning and Conservation for site in Calhoun County, Texas. Accessed July 2024.
WSP, 2023a. Project Long Mott Environmental Report, Standard Operating Procedures for Field Data Collection Revision 2.
WSP, 2023b. Project Long Mott Environmental Report, Quality Assurance Project Document Revision 2. (WSP 2023b).
WSP, 2023c. Long Mott Facility Waters of the U.S. Delineation Report. WSP USA Environment
& Infrastructure Inc., Ballwin, Missouri, December 2023.
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 63 Appendix A Figures
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 64 Figure 1-1 Project Site
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 65 Figure 2-1 Land Cover within the Project Site
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 66 Figure 2-2 Ecological Resources Survey Routes
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 67 Figure 2-3 Aquatic Ecology Resource Survey Locations
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 68 Figure 3-1 Land Cover within the Project Vicinity
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 69 Figure 3-2 Delineated WOTUS Features within the Project Site
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 70 Figure 3-3 Wildlife Management Area within the Project Vicinity
Project Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report, Rev. 1 WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-09 Appendix B Photographic Log
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-1 2/14/2023 Photo 1.
Cropped corn field in north portion of the Project Area.
2/14/2023 Photo 2.
West Coloma Creek in north portion of the Project Area.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-2 2/14/2023 Photo 3.
West Coloma Creek in central portion of the Project Area.
2/14/2023 Photo 4.
Cultivated crops in central portion of the Project Area.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-3 2/15/2023 Photo 5.
Alligators and snowy egret in Project Vicinity south of Green Lake.
5/22/2023 Photo 6.
West Coloma Creek and cultivated crops in north portion of the Project Area.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-4 5/23/2023 Photo 7.
Yellow-crowned night-heron in Project Vicinity south of Green Lake.
5/24/2023 Photo 8.
GBRA Canal near pump station south of Project Area.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-5 8/15/2023 Photo 9.
West Coloma Creek just upstream of Project Area.
8/15/2023 Photo 10.
Crested caracara in Project Vicinity west of Project Area.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-6 8/16/2023 Photo 11.
Loggerhead shrike in Project Vicinity east of Project Area.
8/17/2023 Photo 12.
GBRA Canal near pump station south of Project Area.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-7 11/9/2023 Photo 13.
Cultivated crops in central portion of the Project Area.
11/9/2023 Photo 14.
Black vultures in central portion of the Project Area.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-8 5/23/2023 Photo 15.
Fallow edge of actively cropped corn field in the east-central portion of the Project Area.
8/17/2023 Photo 16.
Cattle and goat grazed gap in evergreen forest (Texas live oak motte) in southeastern portion of Project Area.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-9 11/7/2023 Photo 17.
Deciduous forest (sugarberry tree hedgerow) between crop field and west levee of West Coloma Creek in southeastern Project Area.
11/7/2023 Photo 18.
Edge of dry shrub/scrub and herbaceous mosaic pasture as seen from the east levee of West Coloma Creek.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-10 11/7/2023 Photo 19.
Edge of overgrown moist shrub/scrub upland thicket in north central portion of Project Area.
11/7/2023 Photo 20.
Groundseltree shrub/scrub association exemplifying both wetland shrub/scrub and upland shrub/scrub conditions in the southwestern portion of the Project Area.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-11 5/24/2023 Photo 21.
Herbaceous pasture of grassland and shrub/scrub mosaic in southeastern Project Area.
5/24/2023 Photo 22.
Degraded herbaceous grassland pasture still retaining a few species indicative of former coastal prairie conditions. Large rectangular pasture in northeastern corner of Project Area south of railyard.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-12 11/8/2023 Photo 23.
Herbaceous maintained turf within Dow facility, adjacent to operating basin.
5/22/2023 Photo 24.
Herbaceous overgrown abandoned pasture in northeastern portion of Project Area, north of railyard.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-13 5/23/2023 Photo 25.
Emergent wetland SD-WET-06 north of depressional basin wetlands SD-WET-03 and SD-WET-04.
5/23/2023 Photo 26.
Man-made depressional basin (emergent wetland SD-WET-
- 04) in southeastern portion of Project Area.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-14 11/8/2023 Photo 27.
Ruderal depression (emergent wetland SD-WET-11) north of Dow facility operating basin in northwest corner of Project Area.
5/23/2023 Photo 28.
Regularly inundated, disconnected irrigation canal (emergent wetland SD-WET-
- 05) located along southwest edge of Project Area.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-15 11/7/2023 Photo 29.
Seasonally wet irrigation ditch (emergent wetland SD-WET-
- 14) in large rectangular pasture south of railyard in northeast part of Project Area.
Photo 30.
State vulnerable (S3) sensitive species Indianola beakrush (Rhynchospora Indianolensis) observed in two locations in the southeast part of the Project Area.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-16 8/15/2023 Photo 31.
Dow Drainage Canal. Aquatic ecology survey locations DD-01 and DD-02.
11/7/2023 Photo 32.
Aquatic ecology survey location WCC-01 on West Coloma Creek.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-17 11/7/2023 Photo 33.
Aquatic ecology survey location WCC03 on West Coloma Creek.
11/7/2023 Photo 34.
Aquatic ecology survey location WCC-04 on West Coloma Creek.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-18 8/16/2023 Photo 35.
Aquatic ecology survey location GBRA-04 on GBRA Canal.
11/7/2023 Photo 36.
Rio Grande cichlid (Herichthys cyanoguttatus) collected in the GBRA Canal at GBRA-04.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-19 8/21/2023 Photo 37.
Striped mullet (Mugil cephalus) individuals collected in the Dow Drainage Canal at DD-01.
8/16/2023 Photo 38.
Spotted gar (Lepisosteus oculatus) collected in West Coloma Creek at WCC-04.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-20 8/16/2023 Photo 39.
Smallmouth buffalo (Ictiobus bubalus) collected in the GBRA Canal at GBRA-04.
11/8/2023 Photo 40.
Longear sunfish (Lepomis megalotis) collected in the GBRA Canal at GBRA-03.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-21 11/8/2023 Photo 41.
Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) collected in the GBRA Canal at GBRA-03.
11/8/2023 Photo 42.
Channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) collected in the GBRA Canal at GBRA-03.
Xe-100 Long Mott Ecological Resources Technical Report WSP Project #325223319 WSPDC# WSP-XES-03 B-22 8/15/2023 Photo 43.
Aquatic Ecology field crew seining in the Dow Drainage Canal.