Combined ESA/GEPA Evaluation, North Georgia College & State …€¦ · report (Combined ESA/GEPA...

August 29, 2001

Mr. Tim Womack Ambling Development Company 348 Enterprise Drive Valdosta, Georgia 31601 RE: Phase I Environmental Site Assessment Update University Courtyard 246 South Chestatee Street, Dahlonega, GA ECS Project 10:1350A1 Dear Mr. Womack: Engineering Consulting Services, Ltd. (ECS) has completed the Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) update for the referenced subject property. ECS submitted an original ESA report (Combined ESA/GEPA Evaluation, North Georgia College & State University) on January 7, 2000. As supplemented by information provided below, that initial assessment is considered valid and can be relied on by Ambling Development Company. For this update, ECS personnel visited the Site on August 15, 2001 to determine if any recent changes have resulted in any significant environmental concerns since the submittal of the initial 2000 information. Mr. Jay Hornsby, ECS Staff Geologist, conducted the Site reconnaissance and all portions of the Site were reviewed. The Site is currently partially developed with two asphalt parking lots located along the western and eastern portions and a large asphalt circular driveway located in the middle section of the Site. The Site is also developed with a small brick observatory located west of the circular driveway. Based on our recent observations we found the following: The Site is bounded by a small tract of woods, Morrison Moore Parkway and steep sloping

woods to the south. To the east is a large drainage creek and wooded area with a commercial bank building

further east. To the west is the Mount Hope Cemetery. Further west is the intersection of Barlow Road, Georgia Highway 9 and Morrison Moore

Parkway. To the northwest, north and northeast is the Donovan Dormitory, the Alumni Home, and the

Sirmons Dormitory, respectively. An asphalt parking lot and a jogging track are located northeast of the Site. Additional buildings belonging to the North Georgia College & State University campus are

located further north.

ESA Update University Courtyard ECS Project 10:1350A1 ECS obtained a recent regulatory database report from EcoSearch to determine if any facilities in the area are listed in the Federal or State of Georgia regulatory databases in accordance with the ASTM E1527 standard. A copy of the database report is included with this letter report. None of the facilities listed should be considered an environmental concern to the subject Site. Issues concerning facilities with petroleum releases located within the applicable search radius were addressed in the January 2000 report and these facilities are not considered a concern to the Site. The area reconnaissance did not reveal any additional facilities of concern. Based on the information obtained during the initial January 2000 assessment and the August 2001 environmental site assessment update, ECS does not believe further environmental assessment is warranted at this time. No recognized environmental conditions exist that should be a concern to the subject property. If you have any questions regarding any of this information or the original ESA, please contact the undersigned for clarification. Thank you for the opportunity to assist the Ambling Development Company. Sincerely, ENGINEERING CONSULTING SERVICES, LTD. Bogin White, E.I.T. J. D. (Dan) McHugh, Jr. Staff Engineer Environmental Manager Attachments: EcoSearch Database Report pc: Mr. Cris Rijo Mr. Robert McCann, P. E.

September 12, 2001

Mr. Tim Womack Ambling Development Company 348 Enterprise Drive Valdosta, Georgia 31601 RE: GEPA Update - University Courtyard 246 South Chestatee Street, Dahlonega, GA ECS Project 10:1350A1 Dear Mr. Womack: Engineering Consulting Services, Ltd. (ECS) has completed the Georgia Environmental Policy Act (GEPA) update for the referenced subject property. ECS submitted a GEPA evaluation report (Combined ESA/GEPA Evaluation, North Georgia College & State University) on January 7, 2000. ECS has received supplemental information from the City of Dahlonega and has reviewed the Board of Regent review comments. Based on the information presented below, ECS has determined that the initial assessment should be considered valid and can be relied on by Ambling Development Company. For this update, ECS personnel visited the Site on August 15, 2001 to determine if any recent changes have resulted in any significant environmental concerns since the submittal of the initial 2000 information. Mr. Jay Hornsby, ECS Staff Geologist, conducted the Site reconnaissance and all portions of the Site were reviewed. The item regarding erosion during construction is relevant and proper erosion control measures should be undertaken during construction to minimize potential erosion. The water supply and sewer capacity has been confirmed by the City of Dahlonega and sufficient capabilities apparently exist without impact to the water resources in the area. As requested by the Board of Regents review comment, the impact on the historic resources in the area should be formally determined by the State of Georgia Historic Preservation Office. Based on the information obtained during the initial January 2000 assessment and the August 2001 assessment update, ECS does not believe further environmental assessment is warranted at this time. If you have any questions regarding any of this information or the original ESA, please contact the undersigned for clarification. Thank you for the opportunity to assist the Ambling Development Company. Sincerely, ENGINEERING CONSULTING SERVICES, LTD. J. D. (Dan) McHugh, Jr. Robert L. Goehring, P. E. Environmental Manager Principal Engineer

COMBINED ESA/GEPA EVALUATION NORTH GEORGIA COLLEGE & STATE UNIVERSITY

FOR

NORTH GEORGIA COLLEGE & STATE UNIVERSITY

c/o HARPER PARTNERS, INC.

January 7, 2000

PROJECT

Combined ESA/GEPA Evaluation Privatized Housing

North Georgia College & State University Dahlonega, Lumpkin County, Georgia

CLIENT

North Georgia College & State University

c/o Harper Partners, Inc. 1718 Peachtree Street, NW

Suite 683 South Atlanta, Georgia 30309-2409

SUBMITTED BY

Engineering Consulting Services, Ltd. 1800 Sandy Plains Parkway, Suite 208

Marietta, Georgia 30066

PROJECT NO.: 10:1350

DATE: January 7, 2000

COMBINED ESA/GEPA EVALUATION


TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1

1.0 INTRODUCTION 3

1.1 PROJECT AUTHORIZATION 3 1.2 PROJECT OBJECTIVE 3 1.3 SCOPE OF SERVICES 3

2.0 OVERVIEW OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY 4

3.0 OVERVIEW OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT 4

4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL SITE ASSESSMENT 5

4.1 CURRENT SITE INFORMATION 5 4.1.1 Site Location 5 4.1.2 Site Description 5 4.1.3 Adjoining Properties Use 6 4.1.4 Area Use 6 4.1.5 Regional Physiography 6 4.1.6 Groundwater Conditions 7 4.1.7 Soil And Rock Conditions 7

4.2 HISTORICAL USE INFORMATION 8 4.2.1 Site and Area History Summary 8 4.2.2 City Directories Review 9 4.2.3 Historic Topographic Map Review 9 4.2.4 Aerial Photograph Review 9 4.2.5 Historic Map Review 10 4.2.6 Title Search and History of Ownership 10 4.2.7 Current Property Owner Information 10

4.3 SITE RECONNAISSANCE 10 4.1.1 Exterior Observations 10 4.1.2 Interior Observations 12

4.4 REGULATORY AGENCIES 13 4.4.1 Federal Agency Databases 13 4.4.2 State Agency Databases 14 4.4.3 Regulatory Agency Inquiries 17

5.0 GEPA EVALUATION 18

5.1 WETLANDS 18 5.2 WATER RESOURCES 18

5.2.1 Floodplain/River Corridors 18 5.2.2 Water Supply 18 5.2.3 Groundwater Recharge Areas 18 5.2.4 Water Resource Management 19 5.2.5 Stormwater/Wastewater 19 5.2.6 Surface Stream Protection 19

5.3 AIR QUALITY 19 5.4 SOLID WASTES 19

COMBINED ESA/GEPA EVALUATION


TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)

Page

ii

5.5 ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE LANDS 19 5.5.1 Protected Species 19 5.5.2 Parks/Recreation Sites 20 5.5.3 Forest Land 20

5.6 SOIL STABILITY/ERODIBILITY 20 5.7 HISTORICAL SITES 21 5.8 ARCHEOLOGICAL SITES 21

6.0 PERSONNEL INTERVIEWS 21

7.0 FINDINGS & CONCLUSIONS 22

8.0 LIMITATIONS 22

9.0 CERTIFICATIONS AND QUALIFICATIONS 23

APPENDICES APPENDIX I – FIGURES

FIGURE 1 – Site Location Map

FIGURE 2 – Topographic Map

FIGURE 3 – Site Sketch

APPENDIX II – GEPA ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST

APPENDIX III – PROJECT INITIAL EVALUATION FORM

APPENDIX IV – SITE PHOTOGRAPHS

APPENDIX V – REGULATORY DATABASE SEARCH REPORT

APPENDIX VI – PROJECT DOCUMENTATION DATA

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This Executive Summary is provided as a brief overview of the completed Phase I ESA/ GEPA Evaluation Report and should be considered in conjunction with the entire report. Details provided in the report justify and clarify conclusions and recommendations provided by Engineering Consulting Services, Ltd. (ECS). ESA FINDINGS ECS was contracted by Harper Partners, Inc. to perform a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) and a Georgia Environmental Policy Act (GEPA) Evaluation in general accordance with ASTM Practice E-1527-94 and supplemented by criteria guidelines from the Georgia Board of Regents. The subject Site is a 10-acre tract located along Morrison Moore Parkway in Dahlonega, Lumpkin County, Georgia. The Site is currently partially developed with two asphalt parking lots located along the western and eastern portions and a large asphalt circular driveway located in the middle section of the Site. The Site is also developed with a small brick observatory located west of the circular driveway. According to Mr. Mark Howarth, Director of Advancement at the Alumni House (adjoining building to the north), the western parking lot near the Mount Hope Cemetery was developed in early 1998. The eastern parking lot was developed in 1996. The Alumni House was built in the early 1950’s as the home of the President of North Georgia College. Mr. Howarth also reports that the eastern portion of the Site was possibly the location of a target shooting range. ECS could not obtain any verifying information regarding the shooting range. According to the information provided by VISTA Information Solutions, Inc., there are three mapped and two unmapped LUST facilities within ¾-mile from the Site. The LUST facilities listed include the Butler Property located at North Grove Street and East Main Street; the Country Cupboard #11 located at 550 South Chestatee Street, and the Circle K located at 1175 South Chestatee Street. The two unmapped LUST facilities include the Lumpkin County Schools shop located on Barlow Road, and the Ridley’s Grocery located along Georgia Highway 19 North. According to Mr. Shaheer Muhanna, of the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD), UST Division, a “No Further Action” status was filed for the Circle K and Country Cupboard facilities. No information was available regarding the current status of the Butler Property. Due to the downgradient position and distance of the LUST facilities from the Site, ECS believes that the LUST facilities do not appear to pose an environmental concern to the subject Site at this time. No other sites of concern were reported on the database search or the area reconnaissance. According to Col. Gerald Lord, NGCSU Director of Auxiliary Services (Site Representative), there are at least 15 USTs currently on the NGCSU campus. A Site reconnaissance was made to identify the USTs closest to or those that may pose a potential concern to the subject Site.

Combined ESA/GEPA NGCSU – Privatized Housing ECS Project No. 10:1350

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According to Mr. Phil Norell, NGCSU Director of Operations, the USTs on the campus have been empty for several years. Mr. Howarth and Mr. Norell are not aware of any leaks or spills associated with these USTs. The tanks were reportedly used for heating oil storage purposes. According to ASTM ES 38-94, Number 6 fuel oil, commonly used as heating oil, is slightly mobile to immobile in soil. Due to the mobility of the constituents and the distance from the Site, releases from the USTs should not have impacted the Site. It does not appear the USTs closest to the Site (located at the Alumni House and the Sirmons Dormitory) pose an environmental concern to the subject Site at this time. GEPA FINDINGS Engineering Consulting Services, Ltd. (ECS) has completed the GEPA Evaluation for the 10-acre parcel located along Morrison Moore Parkway. A compilation of public and readily available information, state and federal listings and maps, state and federal regulatory agencies, and other records were used in an effort to locate sensitive areas that may be potentially impacted by the proposed construction activities. Eight primary categories of concern include wetland areas, water resources, air quality, solid wastes, environmentally sensitive lands, soil stability, historical site disruption, and archeological site disruption. The only category of concern is the potential for soil erosion and slope stability that may be adversely impacted by this project if proper construction procedures are not followed. The soils reportedly at the Site have the potential for severe erosion on cleared land and the slopes are sufficient to be a stabilization concern. Erosion problems are evident at the corner of the western parking lot where boulders have been used in an attempt to stabilize the slope. If proper construction practices (i.e. best management practices) are followed, the potential for soil being carried off-Site should be low. The GEPA Checklist is included in Appendix II for review and the Project Initial Evaluation Form is included as Appendix III. ECS has modified the Evaluation Form slightly to reflect our belief that the soil issues can be addressed during the permitting phase of the project and an Environmental Effects Report should not be required at this time.

1.0 INTRODUCTION

This report presents the results of a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) and Georgia

Environmental Policy Act (GEPA) Evaluation conducted by Engineering Consulting Services,

Ltd. (ECS). The Site visit portion of the ESA was conducted on December 21, 1999.

1.1 PROJECT AUTHORIZATION

This ESA was conducted for Harper Partners, Inc. at the property identified along Morrison Moore

Parkway in Dahlonega, Georgia. The Site location is depicted on Figure 1 of Appendix I.

Written authorization to proceed on this project was received from Mr. Alan Toland on December

15, 1999.

1.2 PROJECT OBJECTIVE

The objective of this Phase I ESA was to render an opinion as to whether surficial or historical

evidence indicates the presence of recognized environmental conditions,1 which could result in

hazardous substances or petroleum products in the environment, as defined in the American Society

for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard Practice E1527-97 for Phase I Environmental Site

Assessments.

1.3 SCOPE OF SERVICES

ECS's scope of services consisted of the following activities:

Review of federal and state regulatory agency databases identified by ASTM for the Site and

a selected radius around the Site;

Contact with local environmental regulatory agencies to inquire about environmental

conditions at the Site and in its vicinity;

Review of the Site history through available ASTM Standard Historical Sources;

1 ASTM E1527-97 defines the term “recognized environmental conditions” to mean the presence or likely presence of any hazardous substances or petroleum products on a property under conditions that indicate an existing release, a past release, or a material threat of a release of any hazardous substances or petroleum products into structures on the property or into the ground, groundwater, or surface water of the property. The term includes hazardous substances or petroleum products even under conditions in compliance with laws. The term is not intended to include de minimis conditions that generally do not present a material risk of harm to public health or the environment and that generally would not be the subject of an enforcement action if brought to the attention of appropriate government agencies.

Combined ESA/GEPA Report NGCSU – Privatized Housing ECS Project No. 10:1350

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A Site reconnaissance to make surficial observations for evidence of recognized

environmental conditions;

A vicinity reconnaissance of properties within ½-mile of the Site;

Review of information pertaining to adjoining properties to identify the potential use of

hazardous materials;

Performance of a GEPA Evaluation to determine potential impacts of this project to the

environment of the State of Georgia;

Interviews with area residents and available local officials regarding current and past Site

usage and operations; and

Preparation of this report of our findings.

This report presents ECS's field observations, results, and opinions. This report is subject to

modification if subsequent information is developed by ECS or any other party. This report is

subject to the limitations presented in Section 8.

2.0 OVERVIEW OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY

The Site consists of approximately 10-acres of partially-developed land located at the southern

portion of the North Georgia College & State University (NGCSU) campus along Morrison

Moore Parkway in Land Lot 948 in the 12th District, 1st Section, Lumpkin County Georgia. The

Site can be accessed via two asphalt driveways along Morrison Moore Parkway to the south and

two-asphalt driveway to the north on the campus of NGCSU campus. The Site is developed with

two large asphalt parking lots on the eastern and western portions and a large circular driveway

in the middle section of the Site. The Site is also developed with a small brick, stellar

observatory west of the circular driveway.

3.0 OVERVIEW OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT

The project is the construction of a privatized housing building on the NGCSU campus. For the

purpose of evaluating the environmental impacts under the GEPA guidelines, ECS has separated

the finished use phase of the project from the construction phase of the project when impacts are

possible under one phase. Both phases are discussed fully in this text. Determination of adverse

impacts should be made by the Board of Regents.

Prior to starting the Phase I Environmental Site Assessment for the Site, the precise location and

size of the proposed dormitory was unknown. On January 3, ECS was informed of the location


5

for the proposed dormitory at the northeast corner of the Site along a steep, wooded

embankment. Reportedly, the dormitory will be three connected, five-story buildings with

approximately 50,000-square feet of living space. Surrounding the buildings will be parking

areas and landscaped areas. The dormitory is expected to house approximately 280 people at full

capacity.

4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL SITE ASSESSMENT

The following information was obtained during ECS's Site reconnaissance and from interviews with

people knowledgeable about the Site, including Mr. Phil Norrell, Director of Plant Operations, Col.

Gerald Lord, NGCSU Director of Auxiliary Services, and Mr. Mark Howarth, Director of

Advancement at the Alumni House. Photographs depicting Site conditions at the time of ECS’s Site

visit are included as Appendix IV.

4.1 CURRENT SITE INFORMATION

The Site consists of approximately 10 acres of partially-developed land along the southern

portion of the NGCSU campus. Specific details regarding all aspects of the proposed

development are not finalized at this time.

4.1.1 Site Location

The Site is located at the southern portion of the NGCSU campus along Morrison Moore

Parkway and east of the Mount Hope Cemetery. The property is located in Land Lot 948 in the

12th District, 1st Section, Lumpkin County, and Georgia. The Site is located within city limits of

Dahlonega, Lumpkin County, Georgia, and the location is depicted on Figure 1. Dahlonega is

located approximately 70 miles north of Atlanta, Georgia. Access to the Site can be obtained via

two asphalt roads from Morrison Moore Parkway to the south and along two asphalt roads to the

northeast and northwest (NGCSU campus). Morrison Moore Parkway is accessed via US

Highway 19 to the east/northeast. The Site is bounded by a small wooded tract, Morrison Moore

Parkway and steep sloping woods to the south; to the east, a large drainage creek and wooded

area; to the west by Mount Hope Cemetery, and to the north, the NGCSU campus.

4.1.2 Site Description

At the time of the Site reconnaissance, the Site was developed with large asphalt parking lots along

the eastern and western portions, a circular asphalt driveway in the middle section, and a small brick

observatory west of the circular asphalt driveway. A 6-foot high chain-link fence bounds the eastern

asphalt parking lot along the northeast, east and south/southeast perimeter. Located along the

western, southern and eastern perimeter of the eastern asphalt parking lot is another 6-foot high


6

chain-link fence. A chain-link fence encompasses the entire perimeter of the observatory. A dense

growth of pine trees blocks the view of Morrison Moore Parkway to the east and to the south.

The topography of the Site is mostly irregular. The eastern portion of the Site (parking area) slopes

towards a large drainage area and embankment to the northeast. The central portion and the

southwest portion of the Site slopes towards a drainage/wooded area, which divides the southern

portion of the Site from Morrison Moore Parkway. The upper west side of the Site slopes towards

the north.

4.1.3 Adjoining Properties Use

The Site is bounded by a small tract of woods, Morrison Moore Parkway and steep sloping

woods to the south; to the east is a large drainage creek and wooded area with a commercial

bank building further east; to the west is the Mount Hope Cemetery and further west is the

intersection of Barlow Road, Georgia Highway 9 and Morrison Moore Parkway; to the

northwest, north and northeast is the Donovan Dormitory, the Alumni Home, and the Sirmons

Dormitory, respectively. An asphalt parking lot and a jogging track are located northeast of the

Site with additional buildings belonging to the NGCSU campus located further north.

4.1.4 Area Use

The area in the vicinity south of the Site is primarily wooded with a few residential homes. Most

of the residential and dense commercial development for the area is found within the downtown

district of Dahlonega. Dense commercial and residential development also can be found to the

east and northeast towards the intersection of Morrison Moore Parkway and US Highway 19.

The Mount Hope Cemetery adjoins the property to the west. Located on the adjacent property to

the southeast is the future location of the Dahlonega US Post Office. At the time of the Site

reconnaissance, the Post Office was partially constructed.

4.1.5 Regional Physiography

Based upon a review of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5 minute topographic map of the

Dahlonega, Georgia Quadrangle (See Figure 2), the Site is situated at an elevation of

approximately 1,460 to 1,500 feet above mean sea level (msl). Topography of the general area

consists of steeply-dipping ridges and knolls, with a few low-lying level areas located along stream

drainages. The Site is located on a northern slope of steeply-dipping ridge. The slope of the Site in

general dips towards the northeast towards a drainage area which ultimately discharges into a

tributary of the Yahoola Creek located approximately 1.5 miles to the east. Based upon topographic


7

conditions, area surface water runoff ultimately flows to the northeast on the majority of the Site

with a minor flow to the west from the southwestern corner of the Site.

4.1.6 Groundwater Conditions

The direction of shallow groundwater flow in the vicinity of the Site is influenced by the surface

of the underlying bedrock. The positioning of the bedrock surface is normally reflected in the

surface topography. Therefore, the local direction of Site groundwater flow is assumed to be

northeast. However, localized flow direction in the area of the Site may vary as a result of

heterogeneous subsurface conditions. Properties to the north of the Site are considered to lie in a

downgradient position with respect to the Site. Properties to the east and west are considered to

be crossgradient positions and properties to the south are considered to be in a upgradient

position. Properties to the southwest are considered to be downgradient due to a separate

drainage in that area. Subsequent references to upgradient, downgradient, and crossgradient

properties are based on this presumed northeast groundwater flow direction.

As typical in the Blue Ridge and Piedmont Physiographic Region of Georgia, the Site is

presumed to be underlain by an unconfined aquifer overlying weathered rock. Groundwater

depth in this aquifer varies widely and the depth to groundwater cannot be estimated unless site

specific drilling is conducted. Reportedly, the depth to groundwater at the Site is variable and

ranges from six feet deep to approximately 15 feet deep. Local groundwater flow directions

generally follow the surface topography but cataclastic conditions in the deeper rock zones could

influence flow direction through the rock fractures.

4.1.7 Soil And Rock Conditions

The Geologic Map of Georgia published by Georgia Geologic Survey (1976) indicates that the

Site is located near the boundary of the Blue Ridge and Piedmont Physiographic Regions. The

underlying crystalline rock in this area is reported to be an amphibolite with minor felsic gneiss

intrusions. The Site is thought to be underlain with the Pumpkinvine Creek Formation. The

Pumpkinvine Creek Formation consists of a fine-grained amphibolite with inter-layered thin

units of felsic gneiss and sericite phylite. The metamorphosed amphibolite grade is

approximately 365 million years old and has been subjected to a least three fold events of

progressively weaker intensity.

The soils in the Blue Ridge/Piedmont Province are typically formed from the underlying

crystalline rocks, which are locally weathered into saprolite and residual soils zones. Residual

soils are mica rich, sandy silt and silty sand materials with varying amounts of clay. Soil along

the eastern portion of the Site is considered to be a Rabun Clay association on 15 to 25 percent


8

slopes. Rabun clays typically are found on severely eroded slopes, and mainly occur in

previously cultivated fields where the top soil layer has eroded. This soil is not suited for

intensive agricultural uses. It is commonly suited to grow pasture crops and pine trees. Soil

along the central to western portion of the Site is considered to be a Rabun Clay on a 10 to 25

percent slope. Rabun clays found in this type of area tend to have the original surface layer

removed. The present surface layer is a mixture of the upper part of the clayey subsoil and

remnants of the original surface layer. The clay loam surface layer is sticky when wet and hard

when dry. This soil is also not well suited for intensive uses.

EPA Radon Zone for Dawson County is Zone 2. In Zone 2, the predicated indoor air average

radon gas level is 2 picoCuries per liter (pCi/L) to 4 pCi/L. The EPA recommended action level

for indoor radon is 4.0 pCi/L.

4.2 HISTORICAL USE INFORMATION

The Site history was developed from ASTM Standard Historical Sources, available files, historical

photographs, and interviews with personnel at various county agencies. A reference list of personnel

interviewed is included in Section 6.

4.2.1 Site and Area History Summary

According to Mr. Mark Howarth, Director of Advancement at the Alumni House, the eastern

parking lot on the Site was developed in 1996; the western parking lot was developed in early 1998.

At one time, the Alumni House was the home of the President of the North Georgia College. Mr.

Howarth reports that, prior to the development of the eastern parking lot, “war games” which

included using blank ammunition cartridges, were performed on the Site. Mr. Howarth also reports

that the Site was possibly the location of a target shooting range.

According to Col. Gerald Lord, the NGCSU Director of Auxiliary Services, the Site was developed

in the late 1990’s as a parking lot. The Site lies within the southern portion of the North Georgia

College & State University campus. The campus of North Georgia was established in 1873 as a

military college.

Historically, the surrounding area has primarily been used for woodland to the south and

residential/commercial development to the north within the city of Dahlonega. According to

information received by Ms. Eddie Looper of the Dahlonega Chamber of Commerce, the City of

Dahlonega and neighboring cities was the center of the first U.S. gold rush in 1832. Numerous gold

mines exist in the mountains of the area, as well as, numerous registered historical landmarks.


9

4.2.2 City Directories Review

An attempt was made to review the Haynes Cross-reference Directories at the Lumpkin County

Public Library. The Library did not have any historical street directories on file.

4.2.3 Historic Topographic Map Review

A historical topographic map of the area was reviewed. Based upon a review of the U.S. Geological

Survey (USGS) 7.5 minute topographic map of the Dahlonega, Georgia Quadrangle, dated 1951, the

Site appears to be undeveloped. Three small structures are apparent on the adjoining property to the

south/southeast near Calhoun Road.

4.2.4 Aerial Photograph Review

ECS reviewed aerial photographs provided by the University of Georgia Map Room and the

Lumpkin Tax Assessor’s Office. Data and information ascertained from the aerial photographs are

detailed below.

1938 Aerial Photograph Scale Approx. 1:2,640

The Site is an open pasture with brushy creeks visible. Two long buildings are visible to

the north of the Site. Dahlonega is densely developed.


Site is similar to previous photograph. Some development can be seen along major roads

west and east of the Site.


Site is similar to previous photograph. A few buildings are visible southwest of the Site.


The Site appears densely wooded with low-growth planted pines. A football field and

baseball field are visible to the north. Rectangular plots are visible to the west of the Site

(The Mount Hope Cemetery). A large house with landscaping and a circular driveway near

the house is also visible north of the Site (Alumni House).


The Site is similar to previous photograph. A few buildings have been added in the area.

The pines located on the Site appear to be taller and denser. A large building, east of the

home located to the north of the Site and south of a baseball field, is visible.


10


The Site remains wooded. More roads are visible to the west and northeast of the Site.

1995 Tax Map Aerial Photograph

The Site remains unchanged since the previous photograph.

4.2.5 Historic Map Review

Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps or other historical maps were not readily available for the Site due to

the rural nature of the area.

4.2.6 Title Search and History of Ownership

ECS was not supplied with nor requested to obtain a 50-year chain of title report for review. 4.2.7 Current Property Owner Information

The current property owner is the North Georgia College & State University.

4.3 SITE RECONNAISSANCE

The purpose of ECS's Site reconnaissance was to make surficial observations for evidence of

recognized environmental conditions that would be the result of the presence of hazardous

substances or petroleum products in the environment. Mr. Duane Fulton, ECS Staff Geologist,

visited the Site on December 21, 1999. Selected photographs taken during the Site visit are

included as Appendix IV. ECS was provided with a Site survey which depicted the property

boundaries.

4.1.1 Exterior Observations

The readily accessible periphery of the Site and those representative portions of the Site were

visually assessed for recognized environmental conditions.

Underground Storage Tanks

No surficial evidence of USTs (i.e., fill ports, vent pipes, pavement repairs, etc.) was observed on-Site during the exterior Site reconnaissance. USTs are located off-Site at the Alumni House and the Sirmons dormitory and these USTs are discussed in Section 4.4.3 of this report.


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Aboveground Storage Tanks

No surficial evidence of ASTs was observed during the Site reconnaissance.

Hazardous Substances or Petroleum Products Storage and Use

No evidence of hazardous substances or improper use of petroleum products was observed

during the reconnaissance.

Staining

No stains, with the exception of small, typical parking lot stains, were observed on the

property.

PCB-Containing Electronic Equipment

One pole-mounted transformer was observed a few feet from the gated entrance to the

eastern parking lot near Morrison Moore Parkway. The transformer appeared to be in good

condition and no signs of any leaks or spills associated with the transformer. The

transformer does not appear to pose an environmental concern to the Site at this time.

Drywells and Sumps

No drywells or sumps were observed on the Site.

Pits, Ponds, and Lagoons

No surficial evidence of pits, ponds, and lagoons are evident at the Site.

Wells

No groundwater monitoring wells or other water sources were observed at the Site.

Solid Waste

No solid waste was observed during the Site reconnaissance.

Septic System

There was no indication of any septic systems use on the subject Site. The Alumni House

and other NGCSU buildings are reportedly connected to the municipal sanitary sewer

system.

Stressed Vegetation

There were no indications of stressed vegetation due to adverse impacts to the Site.


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Soil/Water Sampling

No soil sampling or water sampling was included as part of ECS's scope of services for the

Phase I ESA. Geotechnical investigations have been conducted and reported in a separate

report.

Oil/Water Separators

There were no indications of any oil/water separators at the Site.

Surface Water Runoff

Precipitation on the Site along the eastern portion (parking lot) appears to discharge into a

drainage area to the north/northeast. Eventually, the drainage creek to the east of the Site

flows into an un-named tributary of Yahoola Creek which is approximately 1.5-miles to the

east. On the southern portions of the Site, the surface run-off appears to flow southward

towards a drainage feature positioned in an eastern to western direction parallel with

Morrison Moore Parkway. On the upper-western and northern portions of the Site, the

surface run-off appears to flow to the north towards the North Georgia College & State

University campus.

Other Observations

Located within a few feet of the brick observatory was a large satellite antenna. No potential

environmental concern was noted for the antenna.

Located at the southeast corner of the western parking lot, a small section of the parking lot

has collapsed into the drainage feature positioned in an eastern to western direction.

Previous attempts to shore up the steeply dipping embankment have been conducted using

small boulders.

4.1.2 Interior Observations

Currently, the Site is developed with two asphalt parking lots, one circular asphalt driveway and

a small brick observatory. The observatory was locked at the time of the Site reconnaissance and

interior observations were not conducted. There is the possibility of asbestos in the roof mastic but,

according to the project information received by ECS, this building will not be disturbed during the

construction phase of the project; therefore, no sampling for asbestos-containing materials was

conducted.


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4.4 REGULATORY AGENCIES

The following sections are based on public information obtained from various federal, state, and

local agencies that maintain environmental regulatory databases. The primary databases provide

information about the regulatory status of a property and incidents involving use, storage, spilling or

transportation of oil or hazardous materials. Information was gathered by a professional data search

service, Vista Environmental Services (Vista). The Vista Database Search Report, detailing the

federal and state regulatory database information, is presented in Appendix V. To address the size

of the subject Site, the search radius was expanded approximately ¼-mile. A discussion of the

information reviewed is presented in the following sections.

4.4.1 Federal Agency Databases

Federal database searches were provided by Vista and reviewed by ECS. These databases and the

search distance used to review these databases are presented as follows:

Database Date Radius Searched

National Priorities List The National Priorities List (NPL), or Superfund List, is the EPA's database of confirmed uncontrolled or abandoned hazardous waste properties identified for priority remedial actions under the Superfund program.

July 1999 1 mile

RCRA Corrective Action Facilities

The RCRA database of facilities which are undergoing corrective actions (CORRACTS) due to release from regulated RCRA sites.

May 1999 1 mile

Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Information System The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Information System (CERCLIS) database is a compilation by the EPA of the properties which the EPA has investigated or is currently investigating for a release or threatened release of hazardous substances.

May 1999 ½-mile

No Further Remedial Action Planned Sites Database The No Further Remedial Action Planned (NFRAP) is a national database containing information of sites which have been removed from the CERCLIS database.

May 1999 ½-mile

RCRIS Treatment, Storage, or Disposal Facility Database The Resource Conservation and Recovery Information System (RCRIS) Treatment, Storage, or Disposal Facility database (RCRIS-TSD) is a compilation by the EPA of facilities that treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste.

May 1999 ½-mile


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RCRIS Generator Databases The RCRIS generator databases identify and track hazardous waste from the point of generation to the point of disposal. Facilities are identified as Small Quantity Generators (RCRIS-SQG) or Large Quantity Generators (RCRIS-LQG).

May 1999 1/8-mile

Emergency Response Notification System Database The Emergency Response Notification System (ERNS) is a national database used to collect information on reported releases of oil and hazardous substances. The database contains information from spill reports made to federal authorities including the EPA, the U.S. Coast Guard, the National Response Center, and the Department of Transportation.

December 1998 1/8-mile

The Site was not reported on any of the databases. The search radius was extended by ¼-mile due to

the size of the subject Site.

Two unmapped RCRA and Generator facilities are listed in the VISTA database search report. The

facilities are located over a mile north of the Site and should not pose an immediate environmental

concern to the subject Site.

4.4.2 State Agency Databases

The State of Georgia database searches were provided by Vista and reviewed by ECS. These

databases and the search distance used to review these databases are presented as follows:


State Hazardous Waste/Uncontrolled Sites List The State Hazardous Sites Priority List (SPL/SCL) is the state equivalent to the NPL. Priority sites planned for cleanup sing state funds are identified along with sites where cleanup will be paid for by potentially responsible parties and sites with releases below regulatory limits are listed.

June/July 1999 1 mile

Solid/Industrial Waste Facilities Database The Solid Waste/Industrial Waste Facilities (SWLF) Database contains an inventory of solid waste disposal facilities or landfills in the State.

February 1999 ½-mile

Leaking Underground Storage Tank Database The Leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST) Database contains an inventory of reported leaking underground storage tank incidents.

March 1999 ½-mile

Underground Storage Tank Report The Underground Storage Tank (UST) Report is a listing of registered USTs within the State.

April 1998 ¼-mile


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Emergency Spill Response Database

The Emergency Spill Response Database is a listing of all reported spills or uncontrolled releases requiring emergency response activity.

December 1998 1/8-mile

The Site was not reported on any of the databases. The database search radius was extended by a ¼-

mile. According to the VISTA database search, twelve mapped and seventeen unmapped UST

facilities were located within a ½-mile of the Site.

The twelve mapped UST locations include:

1. The North Georgia Psychology Lab located at 500 South Chestatee Street;

2. The Chestatee Regional Hospital located at 1111 Mountain Drive;

3. The North Georgia Couch House located at 403 South Parks Street;

4. The Country Cupboard located at 891 South Chestatee Street;

5. The North Georgia Faculty House located at 111 Walker Drive;

6. 100 Sunset Drive;

7. 209 Sunset Drive;

8. North Georgia College located at 105 A Sunset Drive;

9. The Lumpkin County Forestry Commission located at 1270 Crown Mountain Drive;

10. The Circle K located at 1175 South Chestatee Street;

11. The North Georgia College Faculty House located at 304 Martin Avenue; and,

12. Helton’s Fast Food located at 200 West Main Street.

Due to the downgradient, hydrogeologically-disconnected positions, and distances to the UST

facilities, ECS believes that there are no apparent environment concerns regarding the mapped UST

facilities at this time.

The ECS reconnaissance of the area revealed a Texaco Service Station on the corner of Morrison

Moore Parkway and US Highway 19, approximately ¼-mile northeast of the Site. This UST facility

was not depicted on the VISTA database search report. Due to the downgradient location of the

UST facility, ECS does not believe the Texaco Service Station poses an immediate environmental

concern to the subject Site.

According to Mr. Phil Norell, there are at least fifteen USTs currently on the NGCSU campus. ECS

obtained a map from Col. Gerald Lord identifying the locations of all the USTs currently located on

the NGCSU campus. An area reconnaissance was conducted to locate the USTs closest to the

subject Site that may pose a potential environmental concern. An area reconnaissance of the


16

NGCSU campus identified five 10,000-gallon USTs and one UST of unknown size at the five

adjacent buildings north of the Site. According to Mr. Norell, the USTs currently located on the

NGCSU campus are empty, and have been empty for several years. Mr. Norell was not aware of

any spills or leaks associated with the USTs. The USTs were reportedly used for storing building

heating oil. The USTs of particular interest are the UST located near the garage/ driveway to the

Alumni House and the UST located in the parking lot near the Sirmons Dormitory. According to

ASTM ES 38-94, number 6 fuel oil is slightly mobile to immobile in soils. Due to the cross-gradient

positions of the USTs relative to the section of the Site closest to the USTs and the minimal mobility

of the constituents, any releases from the USTs should not impact the Site. It does not appear that

the USTs located at the Alumni House and Sirmons Dormitory pose an environmental concern to

the subject Site at this time.

According to the VISTA database search, there are three mapped and two unmapped LUST facilities

located within the ¾-mile search radius from the Site. The LUST facilities listed include the Circle

K located at 1175 South Chestatee Street; the Butler Property located at the intersection of North

Grove Street and East Main Street, and Country Cupboard #11 located at 550 South Chestatee

Street. According to Mr. Shaheer Muhanna of the Georgia Environmental Protection Division

(EPD), UST Division, a “No Further Action” status was filed for both the Circle K and Country

Cupboard facilities. Mr. Muhanna stated the only information in the EPD files regarding the Butler

Property is a notice of suspected release in 1993. This property is located 0.4 miles north of the Site

and would not be considered upgradient. Due to the downgradient positions and distance of the

LUST facilities to the Site, these LUST facilities do not appear to pose a potential environmental

concern to the subject Site on this time.

The unmapped LUST facilities include the Lumpkin County Schools bus shop, located near the

intersection of Barlow Road and Morrison Moore Parkway west of the Site, and the Ridleys Grocery

located along US Highway 19 north of downtown Dahlonega. The bus shop is downgradient of the

Site and the distance to the grocery is more than ½-miles north of the Site. These facilities should

not be a concern to the subject Site.

According to the VISTA database search, there is one SPL site located within ¾-miles of the subject

Site. The SPL site is identified as the Lumpkin County Barlow Homes Road municipal solid waste

landfill located on Barlow Road. This site has a known release of Vinyl chloride in groundwater at

levels exceeding the reportable quantity and the landfill is listed on the Georgia Hazardous Site

Inventory, July 1999 edition. A non-HSRA cleanup or investigation has been initiated regarding this

site. Due the downgradient position and distance of the landfill from the subject Site, ECS believes

that the SPL site should not pose an environmental threat to the subject Site.


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4.4.3 Regulatory Agency Inquiries

To obtain information concerning the possible release of hazardous material or oil at or near the Site,

ECS contacted the Lumpkin County Emergency Management Agency and City of Dahlonega Fire

Department. None of these agencies had responded to, had records of, or was aware of any

environmental concerns at the subject Site. If additional information is presented later which

changes ECS’s evaluation of the Site, ECS will forward the information to the Client.


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5.0 GEPA EVALUATION

The Site was evaluated for the potential impacts to the environment due to this project

development. The GEPA evaluation was conducted in general accordance to the requirements of

the Georgia Board of Regents and the information ascertained is detailed in the following

sections. The GEPA Checklist Form is included as Appendix II and the Board of Regents’

Project Initial GEPA Evaluation Form is included as Appendix III.

5.1 WETLANDS

No designated wetlands are present on the Site. The drainage areas on-Site are not typically

considered as “Waters of the State” but buffer protection may be required as part of the

construction permit.

5.2 WATER RESOURCES

5.2.1 Floodplain/River Corridors

According to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for the City of Dahlonega, the Site lies within

the Zone X, which has been identified as an area that lies outside the 500-year flood plain. Based on

this designation by the FIRM, ECS believes that there is no apparent environmental concern at this

time.

5.2.2 Water Supply

It does not appear that the proposed project (five-story dormitory) will adversely decrease either the

area water quality or the quantity of water available for the water supply. Water demand will

increase to an estimated 36,000 gallons per day supply. According to Mr. Thompson of the

Dahlonega Water Department, this supply volume will have no adverse effect. The proposed

building use is dormitory housing and uses should be typical for multi-family residential rental

housing. The City of Dahlonega obtains its water from Yahoola Creek.

5.2.3 Groundwater Recharge Areas

The Site is already developed with two asphalt parking lots and a circular driveway. It does not

appear that any future development of the Site will disturb or alter any groundwater recharge areas.

The Site area is not designated as a groundwater recharge area as depicted on the US Geologic

Survey Hydrologic Atlas 20.


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5.2.4 Water Resource Management

The proposed housing project should not result in a large demand for water. The demand will not

result in a strain to the water resources of the municipal system. If the municipal supply and

treatment systems are sufficient, the proposed housing use should not degrade the area water quality.

5.2.5 Stormwater/Wastewater

The Site is developed with two large asphalt parking lots and a large circular driveway located on

the eastern, middle and western portions of the Site. The location of the proposed five-story

dormitory is on the northeast corner of the subject Site. It does not appear that future development

of the subject Site will result in an increase of the amount of stormwater run-off for downstream

property owners.

According to Mr. Grissom of the Dahlonega Sewer Department, the 36,000 gallons of wastewater

generated by this project per day will not have any adverse effect on the system.

5.2.6 Surface Stream Protection

It does not appear that the proposed five-story building will adversely effect any freshwater aquatic

life.

5.3 AIR QUALITY

It does not appear that the proposed project will release or discharge any contaminants, with the

possible exception of minimal soil dust, into the ambient air.

5.4 SOLID WASTES

Construction activities may generate minimal quantities of solid waste debris. The completed

project (five-story dormitory) will result in the generation of typical residential solid wastes for

disposal. The materials produced at the proposed five-story dormitory will include household

garbage and other non-hazardous waste. It is not known, at this time, if the amount of solid

waste generated by the proposed building use will adversely impact or drastically increase the

amount of solid waste transported into the landfill. The closest landfill to the Site is located

approximately one mile to the southwest near the end of Barlow Road.

5.5 ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE LANDS

The Site is located in the Blue Ridge mountain foothills of northern Georgia. The Site is not

located at an elevation that is protected as a “mountainous region”. The regulatory elevation, as

stipulated in the EPD Rules for Certification of Environmentally Sensitive Property, for


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Lumpkin County is 2,080 feet and the Site is located at a maximum elevation of approximately

1,500 feet.

5.5.1 Protected Species

According to information obtained by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife

Resources Division, there are five plant species that have been identified as being usual,

threatened or rare in Lumpkin County. These species of plants include the Carex manhartii;

Cypripedium acaule; the Cypripedium calceolus, the Calystegia sericata, and the Xerophyllum

asphodeloides.

According to the Georgia Natural Heritage Program, there are two protected species of animals

in Lumpkin County. These species of animals include the Cyprinella callitaenia (Bluestripe

Shiner) and the Notropis hypsilepis (Highscale Shiner).

ECS Staff personnel did not observe any of the protected plant and animal species during the on-

Site reconnaissance.

5.5.2 Parks/Recreation Sites

It does not appear that the proposed action will disturb or significantly impact any of the State of

Georgia’s cultural resources, which include state or national parks, preserves and other public

lands or areas of recognized scenic and/or recreational value.

5.5.3 Forest Land

The proposed project will not change or alter any “old growth” forested areas. A few trees are

found within the middle section as well as the northeast portion of the Site. It does not appear

the removing these trees for the construction of the proposed building will adversely affect or

alter any forested areas within the vicinity of the Site.

5.6 SOIL STABILITY/ERODIBILITY

There are steep slopes on the subject Site that may erode when cleared during construction. The

soil at the Site is typically considered as having a high susceptibility for erosion and the hazard

for further erosion is severe. Care must be taken during construction planning to address the

slope stabilization problems and erosion potential that will occur during construction. Assuming

Best Management Practices are used during construction, no unusually adverse erodibility

conditions should exist.


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5.7 HISTORICAL SITES

A review of public records and maps of the Site and vicinity within a one-mile radius has

revealed numerous historical landmarks or potential historical landmarks listed on the National

Register of Historic Places (NHRP). Eight separate structures are listed in the Register and two

historic districts are listed. These historical landmarks include small residential homes and

businesses. Primarily, historical sites are located within the NHRP-listed downtown business

district located approximately ¼- to ½-miles northwest of the Site. Located along the western

boundary of the Site is the Mount Hope Cemetery – a site considered historic in Dahlonega. The

proposed location for the five-story building is in the northeast corner of the Site. The proposed

building should not be visibly distracting from the historical business district or the Mount Hope

Cemetery due to the proposed building location and intervening foliage.

To obtain a higher degree of confidence regarding the potential impact of the proposed building,

a final opinion should be obtained from the Georgia Historic Preservation Division.

5.8 ARCHEOLOGICAL SITES

An archaeological site file search was performed by Mr. James Page of Department of

Anthropology at the University of Georgia. According to Mr. Page, the State is not currently

aware of any archaeological sites within a 1-mile search radius of the subject Site.

Even though the State is not aware of any archaeological sites in the 1-mile search radius, ECS

cannot guarantee that future finds may not be detected in the area.

6.0 PERSONNEL INTERVIEWS

The following people were interviewed and/or contacted to gather relevant Site information: Mr. Phil Norell – NGCSU Director of Plant Operations Col. Gerald Lord – Director of Auxiliary Services (Site Representative) Mr. Mark Howarth – Director of Advancement at the Alumni House Ms. Eddie Looper – Chamber of Commerce Ms. Michelle Mall – Lumpkin County Health Department Mr. Shaheer Muhanna – Georgia Environmental Protection Division, UST Division Mr. Egger – Dahlonega Fire Department Ms. Libby Burrill – Lumpkin County Forestry Commission Mr. Robert Hawkins – Georgia EPD, UST Division Mr. David Brownlee - Georgia Hazardous Waste Division Mr. James Page – Georgia Archaeological Site File


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Mr. C. L. Grissom – Dahlonega Sewer Department Mr. Ollie Thompson – Dahlonega Water Department Records of Communication forms are included in Appendix VI.

7.0 FINDINGS & CONCLUSIONS

The Site is currently developed with two asphalt parking lots, a circular driveway and a small

brick observatory. The location of the proposed five-story dormitory project is in the northeast

corner of the Site along a steep wooded embankment.

According to Mr. Phil Norell, the NGCSU Director of Operations, there are 15 USTs currently

located on the campus. Mr. Mark Howarth, Director of Advancement at the Alumni House, and

Col. Gerald Lord, the NGCSU Director of Auxiliary Services, are not aware of any past leaks or

spills associated with the tanks. The tanks have been empty for several years and most likely

were used for heating oil. It does not appear that any UST located in the area poses an

environmental concern to the subject Site at this time.

According to Mr. Mark Howarth, the subject Site was possibly the location of a target shooting

range. ECS could not obtain any verifying information regarding the target shooting range.

ECS has completed the GEPA Evaluation Report for the subject Site. It does not appear that

environmentally sensitive areas and Historical/Archeological sites will be impacted by

construction activities. The Site may be susceptible to soil erosion concerns during construction

and proper procedures to minimize erosion and maximize slope stability should be exercised.

8.0 LIMITATIONS

The ESA/GEPA Evaluation involved a reconnaissance of the site and contiguous properties and

a review of regulatory information in general accordance with the ASTM standard and the

GEPA. No soil, water, air, radon, asbestos or chemicals were sampled or tested and no

contaminant screening was conducted, requested or proposed during this phase of the ESA. No

other non-scope considerations or issues are included within the scope of this ESA. The conclusions and recommendations presented within this report are based upon a reasonable

level of investigation within normal bounds and standards of professional practice specified by

ASTM for a site in this particular geographic and geologic setting. The findings of this Phase I

ESA are not intended to serve as an audit of health and safety or compliance issues pertaining to


23

improvements or activities on-site. ECS is not responsible or liable for the discovery and

elimination of hazards that may potentially cause damage, accidents or injuries.

This review relied, in part, upon public sources of readily available information. ECS does not

warrant the work of regulatory agencies or other third parties supplying information, which may

have been used for the preparation of this screening. The findings herein are based on ECS’

interpretation and opinion of the data available at present. The opinion of appropriate state and

federal agencies should be obtained if a higher degree of confidence regarding the potential

impact of the proposed building is necessary. All observations, conclusions and recommendations pertaining to environmental conditions at

the subject property are necessarily limited to conditions observed, and/or materials reviewed at

the time this study was undertaken. ECS's findings and conclusions must be considered not as

scientific certainties, but rather as our professional opinion concerning the significance of the limited

data gathered during the course of the environmental Site assessment. No other warranty,

expressed or implied, is made with regard to the conclusions and recommendations presented

within this report. This report is provided for the exclusive use of Harper Partners and their

prospective partners, lenders or assigns involved with this property. This report is not intended

to be used or relied upon in connection with other projects or by other undesignated third parties.

The use of this report by any third party or parties will be at such parties sole risk and ECS

disclaims liability for any such third party use or reliance.

This study and report have been prepared on behalf of and for the exclusive use of Harper

Partners solely for use in an environmental assessment of the Site. This report and the findings

contained herein shall not, in whole or in part, be disseminated or conveyed to any other party,

nor used by any other party in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of Engineering

Consulting Services, Ltd.

9.0 CERTIFICATIONS AND QUALIFICATIONS

This Combined Environmental Site Assessment & GEPA Evaluation has been performed by the

environmental professionals whose names appear in the signature blocks below. The

qualifications of these personnel are summarized in the resumes included in Appendix VI.

Engineering Consulting Services, Ltd.


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Duane Fulton J. D. McHugh, Jr. Staff Geologist Environmental Services Manager Robert L. Goehring, P. E. Vice President

January 7, 2000

Mr. Alan Toland Harper Partners, Inc. 1718 Peachtree Street NW Suite 683-S Atlanta, Georgia 30309 Reference: Phase I Environmental Site Assessment/GEPA Evaluation North Georgia College & State University ECS Project No. 10:1350 Dear Mr. Toland: Engineering Consulting Services, Ltd. (ECS) has completed a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA)/ Georgia Environmental Policy Act (GEPA) Environmental Evaluation for the referenced property and improvements. Our services were provided in general accordance with ECS Proposal No. PAG-0483, dated November 22, 1999, per the requirements of ASTM E 1527-97, Standard Practice for Environmental Site Assessments: Phase I Environmental Assessment Process. Based on the findings of Phase I ESA report, no recognized environmental conditions were found to exist on the subject property and ECS does not believe further environmental assessment of the subject property is necessary at this time. ECS has completed the GEPA Evaluation Report for the subject Site. It does not appear that environmentally sensitive areas and Historical/Archeological sites will be adversely impacted by construction activities. One category of concern is the potential for soil erosion and slope stability that may be encountered during construction. The soils reported at the Site are susceptible to severe erosion on cleared land, but if proper construction practices (i.e. best management practices) are followed, the Site conditions should be manageable and no adverse impacts would occur. If there are questions regarding this report, or a need for further information, please contact the undersigned. Respectfully submitted, ENGINEERING CONSULTING SERVICES, LTD. Duane Fulton J. D. McHugh, Jr. Robert L. Goehring, P. E. Staff Geologist Environmental Manager Vice President

APPENDIX I

FIGURES

Reference: “Dahlonega, GA”USGS Quadrangle Map, 1951 Project No.: 10:1350 Date: January 7, 2000

Figure No.: 2

TOPOGRAPHIC MAP

PHASE I

ENVIRONMENTAL SITE ASSESSMENTPRIVATIZED HOUSING


DAHLONEGA, GEORGIA

ENGINEERING CONSULTING SERVICES, LTD.

Reference: Street Atlas, USAProject No.: 10:1350 Date: January 7, 2000

Figure No.: 1

SITE LOCATION MAP

PHASE I



DAHLONEGA, GEORGIAENGINEERING CONSULTING SERVICES, LTD.

Reference: Site SketchProject No.: 10:1350 Date: January 7, 2000

Figure No.: 3

SITE SKETCH

PHASE I



DAHLONEGA, GEORGIAENGINEERING CONSULTING SERVICES, LTD.

PARKING LOT

PARKINGLOT

Rock Debris

Chain-link Fence

Gate

Transformer

Walkway

Lig

ht

Pol

e

Morrison Moore Parkway

Chain-link Fence

Alum

ni Road

Alumni House

Underground Storage Tank

Drainage/Wooded Area

Mount Hope Cemetery

SITE

Steep Slope

Steep Slope

Calhoun Road

Parking LotSirmons Dormitory

Steep Slope

Trees

Observatory

Drivew

ay

Satellite Dish

Not to Scale

APPENDIX II

GEPA ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST

Georgia Area/CategoryNO YES Unknown Minor Median Major Unknown

1. Wetlands X

2. Flood Plain/River Corridor X

3. Water Supply X

4. Water Resources X

5. Groundwater Recharge Area X

6. Storm Water X

7. Waste Water X

8. Air Quality X

9. Solid Wastes X

10. Soil Stability/Erosion X X

11. Protected Mountains X

12. Protected Species X

13. Critical Habitats X

14. Historical X

15. Archeological X

16. Parks/Recreation X

17. Energy Supplies X

18. Beaches X

19. Dunes X

20. Shoreline X

21. Estuary X

22. Forest Land X

23. Barrier Island X24. Aquatic Life/Trout Streams X

Project Nunber : Architech's Project # 9122 ATLProject Name : Privatized HousingInstitution : North Georgia College & State University

Signed Robert L. Goehring, P.E.

Date

Is Area Affected? If Affected, How severely?

ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLISTGEORGIA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT

APPENDIX III

PROJECT INITIAL EVALUATION FORM

BOARD OF REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY SYSTEM OF GEORGIA

INITIAL GEPA EVALUATION FORM Environmental Consultant’s Opinion Project No. Architect’s Project # 9122 ATL

Project Name Privatized Housing

Institution North Georgia College & State University

Date of Assessment January 7, 2000 Brief Project Description This proposed project is the construction of a five-story dormitory

near the southern boundary of the North Georgia College & State University campus along

Morrison Moore Parkway in Dahlonega, Georgia. The subject Site is approximately 10 acres in

size and the dormitory building is tentatively proposed to be located in the northeast corner of

the Site adjacent to the Sirmons Dormitory. The proposed dormitory is expected to house 280

residents upon full utilization. Due to the soil and slopes present at the Site, the potential for

erosion is a concern if proper construction practices are not followed. Adherence to proper

construction practices should minimize any concerns.

Having reviewed this proposed project and having completed the GEPA Environmental Checklist (attached), I have determined that there may be adverse environmental effects resulting from this project. These potential adverse environmental effects are referenced on the attached Checklist and are further described by narrative. I believe the adverse impacts may be resolved through the use of best management practices during construction and would not recommend the completion of an Environmental Effects Report.

Robert L. Goehring, P. E. Vice President Engineering Consulting Services, Ltd. 1800 Sandy Plains Parkway, Suite 208 Marietta, Georgia 30066

APPENDIX IV

SITE PHOTOGRAPHS

APPENDIX V

VISTA REGULATORY DATABASE SEARCH REPORT

APPENDIX VI

PROJECT DOCUMENTATION DATA

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