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Laurel Creek Baseline Documentation

Forests, Natural Areas, and Plants Species

Brevard, NC
Blue Ridge Province
Spring, 2000

Appalachian Ecological Consultants

Kevin Caldwell
PO Box 352           Penrose, NC 28766           828-862-8103           ablc@citcom.net

Property Summary

Table One: Natural Communities on the Laurel Tract. The following 6 natural communities are found (See Map One). An old growth Acidic Cove & Slope Forest remains in the conservation tract south of Laurel Creek.

Community Type	# Acres - (Approximate)
Montane Oak-Hickory Forest	275
Acidic Cove Forest	200
"Semi"Rich Cove Forest	50
Pitch Pine Forest	5
Appalachian Seeps	n/a
Roads/ Survey lines (Anthropomorphic)	25

Embedded Habitats include waterfalls, rock outcrops, boulders, and talus.

Total Number of Plant Species Identified: 139 species. As many as 175 to 225 species likely exist on the tract. Of 139 ID'd, 50 are woody species & vines, and 89 are herbaceous. See Species Listing.

Canopy Trees:	18		Grasses:	3
Vines:	9		Shrubs:	17
Sedges:	6		Ferns & Fern Allies:	12
Understory Trees:	6		Rushes:	1
Wildflowers:	61		Non-Vascular Plants:	6

A Royal Fern

NC Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) Rare & Watchlist Species:

French Broad Heartleaf: an NC Candidate for Endangered / Threatened Listing and a Federal Species of Concern.

Ashleaf Golden Banner: an NC Candidate for Endangererd / Threatened Listing.

(Unlisted by NCNHP) Southern Deerberry: distinguished as species after 1968.

Endemic Plant Species: 13 plant species found only the Appalachian range are found on the tract. These are called "endemic" species. Of these, 8 are known only within the southern Appalachians, 4 are found in both the southern and central Appalachians, and two are endemic to the Appalachian Range in general. They include:

Southern	Southern & Central	Appalachian
Fraser Magnolia Huckleberry Doghobble Seep Rue Bunchflower French Broad Hearleaf (NC Rare List) Ashleaf Golden Banner (NC Rare List)	Sweetshrub Buffalo Nut Bluets Lanceleaf Bunchflower	Corn Lily Yellow Mandarin

Exotic / Invasive Species: Exotic species are not invasive or problematic on this tract and include only erosion control grasses and Multiflora Rose which was destroyed when seen.

Physical Description

A Waterfall on Williamson Creek Tributary

Landowner: Sylvan Resources	Size: 600 acres
Site Name: Laurel Creek	USGS 7.5' Topo Quad: Brevard
County: Transylvania	Province: Blue Ridge Province

Location & Boundaries: This tract is located 4 to 4.5 miles east-southeast of Brevard, NC. It is nearly centered between Cascade Lake Rd, Old Hendersonville Highway, Wilson Road, and Highway 276 south from Brevard. It lies between Black Knob to the north and Rich Mountain Gap to the southwest. DuPont State Forest borders the southeastern corner of the tract. This tract is nearly 1.75 miles in length by 0.9 miles width at its widest opposing boundaries.

Hydrology: Small stream riparian and upland terrestrial

River Basin: French Broad River

Watersheds: Williamson Creek west to French Broad; Laurel and East Fork Creeks east to Little River north to French Broad.

Streams: Laurel, East Fork, and Williamson Creeks. Approximately 26 perennial streams are found on the tract, 20 in the eastern watershed, and 6 in the western. Both the Laurel and East Fork creeks are listed as High Quality Waters (HQW) by NCDENR, 1999. Small, cascading waterfalls and wide, flat seeps are found occasionally along streams.

Moisture: Xeric on most ridges, upper slopes and south facing slopes. Mesic in coves, and north facing slopes. Wide, flat seeps are found on the north fork of Laurel Creek prior to leaving the property, and on a spur of East Fork Creek on the southern property border.

Aspects: All aspects are well represented.

Slopes: Mostly gentle to very steep

Topographic Position: The property flanks a broad, "saddle" of ridgeline knobs and gaps moving from north-northeast to south-southwest between Black Knob and Rich Mountain Gap. This watershed-dividing saddle contains a 300 foot vertical elevation change. Approximately 1/3rd of the tract lies west of this ridgeline and 2/3rds lies to the east. The northern ½ of the tract is notably more gentle to moderately sloped than the southern portion with broader, more open coves. The southern ½ contains much steeper, rugged terrain and more tightly cleft coves.

Elevation: 2430' to 3120'

Elevation Change: 690 vertical feet

Geology: Mainly Garnet-Mica Schist, interbedded with amphibolite, a calcareous parent material. Igneous origin. (NCGS, 1985).

Soils: Ashe-Edneyville association at large, which is excessively to well drained on moderate to steep mountain slopes. This association specifically contains Ashe, Chester, and Tusquitee soils series on this tract. Ashe soils occupy approximately 85% of the tract. Chester and Tusquitee soils encompass 12% and 3% of the land area respectively.

• AeF - Ashe Fine Sandy Loam (25 - 45% Slopes)
• AeE - Ashe Fine Sandy Loam (15 - 25% Slopes)
• AnE - Ashe / Edneyville (15 - 25% Slopes)
• AhG - Ashe Stony Sandy Loam (45 - 70% Slopes)
• ChE - Chester Fine Sandy Loam (15 - 25% Slopes)
• ChF - Chester Fine Sandy Loam (25 - 45% Slopes)
• TuD - Tusquitee Stony Loam (6 - 15% Slopes)

Site Integrity: The site is entirely forested except for old logging roads with excellent, good, and fair quality examples of native forest communities. A small, extremely steep area of old growth Acidic Cove Forest remains on the southern and western border of Laurel Creek. The site was mostly timbered in the 1950's, but many large, old trees dot the terrain and remain in the Acidic Cove forests along streams. It is contiguous with forested areas surrounding the tract.

Fire Regime: Fire scars were observed on the slopes below Black Knob, possibly from a post-timbering fire.

Other Disturbances or Impacts: Logging has not taken place for approximately 40 to 50 years. Old timber skid-trails and ruts are found occasionally throughout the site. Grazing has possibly occurred on portions of the tract. To date, Invasive exotic plant species are not a problem on this tract. A deer hunting stand is found on the property two coves south of Laurel Creek below the main roadbed.

Adjacent Land Uses: Mostly residential, but largely forested. Recreation and hunting is popular in the adjacent DuPont State Forest. The AGFA film plant and Cascade Lake Hydroelectric dam are located to the east.

Existing Roads, Structures, and Historical Features: Two major roads access the site. Primary access is from the northwest via the Williamson Creek Community off of Williamson Creek Road through the 156 address. This road is approximately 1.5 to 2 miles to its end, provides access to the main body of the tract and old logging roads through both western and eastern watersheds. Secondary access enters the southeast corner of the tract on a right of way from Cascade Lake Road, but which is currently not maintained. Approximately 3 to 4 miles of old logging roads lie on the tract. No former homesites were found, though the likelihood of their existence is high.

General Description

An Unculled Chestnut

Two major watersheds divide the tract north to south in a landscape-level "saddle" shape between Black Knob and Rich Mountain Gap. Approximately 38 coves and 24 perennial main and spur streams are found on the tract. The "western" watershed flows to the west, houses a section of upper Williamson Creek and approximately 15 coves. Approximately six perennial spur streams feed a 1/3 mile section of Williamson Creek which flows directly into the French Broad.

The "eastern" watershed occupies nearly 2/3rds of the property and contains both Laurel and East Fork Creeks and spurs which flow to the east. This drainage contains approximately 23 coves and 18 perennial streams, most of which feed into Laurel Creek. Coves in this watershed are gently sloping north of Laurel Creek and face south to east. However, south of Laurel Creek, coves are much steeper and tighter, and generally face northeast. Approximately 1/4 mile of the main branches of Laurel Creek and East Fork pass through the property in the southern half of the tract. Both Laurel and East Fork Creeks drain into the Little River, into Cascade Lake, back into the Little and finally the French Broad River.

Forests on the tract were mostly timbered in the mid 1900's, but many large diameter, remnant trees, are found throughout the landscape, and are concentrated in Acidic Cove Forests along main and spur streams. Two small areas of remnant old growth forest are found south of Laurel Creek. Overall, average tree diameters are 10 to 18 inches, and in general, forests are mostly even aged. Most coves contain Acidic Cove & Slope Forests with smaller areas of Semi-Rich Cove & Slope Forests . Acidic Cove Forests are found primarily alongside perennial streams from the base of the tract up to the main dividing ridgeline in a few narrow ravines and coves. Semi-Rich Cove Forests are found in the more gently sloping coves south of Laurel Creek. These forests contain the greatest diversity and density of plant species per acre, especially herbs and ferns. Upper slopes, ridges, and some south-facing coves harbor Montane Oak - Hickory Forests. A small Pitch Pine Forest is found on the northern-most knob along the spine of the eastern and western drainages. Human created communities include old logging roads and survey lines. Embedded habitats include Appalachian Seeps, which are considered natural communities in themselves, as well as waterfalls & small cascades, rock outcrops, boulders, and rock talus. These special, small habitats enhance niche space for a variety of species which are not found in normal forest floor conditions, and rely on these small areas to survive.

The site will be divided into a Development Area in the north and central part of the tract and a Conservation Area in the western and southern portions (see Map Two).

Natural Community Descriptions

Montane Oak-Hickory Forest (Dry & Moist Subtypes)

Chinquapin(left) and Chestnut

Total Area (Approx): 275 acres

Species of Interest: Chinquapin, Puttyroot, Southern Deerberry, Horse-Sugar.

Forest Structure and Dominant Vegetation:Two variations of this forest type are distinguished primarily by soil moisture and higher numbers of Northern Red Oaks more moist coves. These forests comprise the greatest surface area on the tract and are common on most south facing slopes, ridges (for the Dry subtype) and into coves and north facing slopes (for the moist subtype). Montane Oak-Hickory Forests are characterized by woody vegetation - trees and shrubs, and often dense patches of Blueberry, Huckleberry, and Mountain Laurel. In areas where shrubs are less dense, leaf litter rather than a dense cover of forest floor herbs is often the major groundcover although over large areas, numerous herbaceous species can be found.

Formerly, these forests were dominated by American Chestnut, and were called Oak-Chestnut Forests. Now, Chestnut is actively part of the shrub level dynamics, sprouting from old rootstocks, but succumbing to the Chestnut blight usually between 10 and 25' feet in height. Two large, unculled Chestnuts are found between 2500' and 2600' elevation along the north fork of Laurel Creek in the northeastern portion of the tract. After timbering, Chestnut stumps are very persistent in the environment and can be seen occasionally throughout the tract in this forest. It was also a component of the other forest types described below but to lesser degree within them than in what is now Oak-Hickory.

Fire is historically a natural component of this forest type, especially on south-facing slopes and ridges which receive solar radiation year-round, as opposed to steeper north-facing slopes and coves which get sun only part of the year.

Dominant trees in the canopy of this forest type are White Oak, Scarlet Oak, Chestnut Oak, Red Maple, and Mockernut Hickory. Co-dominant trees are found in various concentrations in the canopy and include Black Gum - one of which measures over 2 feet in diameter - Black Oak, Tulip Poplar, Black Locust, Northern Red Oak, White Pine, an occasional Pitch Pine or Black Birch.

Understory trees include Fraser Magnolia, Sassafras, Sourwood, Serviceberry, Sourwood, Dogwood and smaller versions of the canopy trees. Shrubs and Vines are numerous and include Mountain Laurel, Flame Azalea, Buffalo Nut, Highbush Blueberry, Deerberry, Hillside Blueberry, and Huckleberry in the shrub layer. Perhaps most notable is the presence of Chinquapin in the southern portion of the tract which shares the same genus as American Chestnut and bears a prickly burr housing nuts which rival Chestnut in flavor. Two species of Greenbrier, two species of Wild Grape, Poison Ivy, Trailing Arbutus and Virginia Creeper are found as well.

Herbs in this community type are generally sparse, and an "open" ground layer of leaves is common in many places not thick with shrubs. Approximately 5% of the ground surface of this forest type may be covered in herbs overall. However, a several dense patches of Galax and New York Ferns are found. Overall, the variety of species in the area at large is fairly high but scattered throughout a large area. Typical herbs include New York Fern, Hayscent Fern, Bracken Fern, Rattlesnake Orchid. Galax, Plume Solomons Seal, Halberd Violet, Lions Foot, Cancer Root, Rattlesnake Hawkweed, Ground Pine, and Pennsylvania Sedge.

Position In The Landscape: Mainly on the convex slopes and ridgetops. Grades mostly into Acidic Cove Forest and Semi-Rich Cove Forests in the coves, and a small, surrounded Pitch Pine Forest on the spine of the watersheds.

Quality & Condition: Fair to good quality. This forest type and its soils appear to have been heavily impacted in previous timbering, and are now beginning to mature and redevelop a more uneven aged structure. High numbers of Red Maple is likely indicative of earlier logging, as this tree regenerates rapidly after disturbance. Average dbh (diameter breast height) of the canopy trees is approximately 12 to 15 inches. A few larger trees are two feet in diameter. The canopy is mostly even-aged having been logged in the mid 1900's. However, it continues to mature and in some places a more uneven aged canopy is reestablishing.

Acidic Cove & Slope Forest

Biltmore Carrionflower

Total Area (Approx): 200 acres

Species of Interest: French Broad Heartleaf, Yellowroot, Painted Trillium, Sweet Pepperbush, Silverbell.

Forest Structure and Dominant Vegetation:An area of old growth Acidic Cove Forest is found south and upslope of Laurel Creek along the western property line and in the next cove south. Factors alluding to this status include high soil integrity, the lack of cut stumps of any species, especially Chestnut, numerous large diameter trees of several species, uneven-aged trees and canopy gaps, downed wood chestnut and other tree debris, "pit-mound topography" created from downed tree rootballs, and various stages of decomposition in downed trees from new to very advanced.

Acidic coves are characterized by woody vegetation, dense thickets of Rhododendron, and lack of herb cover. Like Oak-Hickory Forests, the total number of herb species may be high over a large area but are usually not dense in any one area. Herbs are greatest in number and density in treefall gaps, especially those along stream corridors. Though Acidic Cove and Oak-Hickory are both dominated by woody vegetation, only a few species such as Red Maple, Fraser Magnolia, and Mountain Laurel are common to both forest types. Soils in these forests are highly erodable due to steepness, soil structure, and lack of herbs.

Dominant trees include Hemlock, Black Birch, Red Maple, Tulip Poplar, White Pine, and Northern Red Oak. Average tree diameters are approximately 18 to 24 inches. In many places, the canopy is aging and a more uneven aged canopy is beginning to reestablish. Several large Hemlocks in excess of 2 to 3 feet diameter were likely passed over in previous timbering as Hemlock is one of the slower-growing eastern trees. These large trees are found on steep, rugged slopes and may indicate that other pockets or corridors of this forest type remain intact in a fairly mature state.

Understory trees include Fraser Magnolia, American Holly and subcanopy versions of canopy level trees. Silverbell, was found only near the eastern border of the tract where Laurel Creek passes through. Basswood, typically not an Acidic Cove tending species was found in understory and emerging canopy positions on along the main branch of East Fork Creek near 2900 feel elevation. However, its presence, in conjunction with increasing density and diversity of herbs in the vicinity indicates that forests in this portion were likely less acidic and more of a Rich Cove Forest prior to timbering.

Shrubs include Rosebay Rhododendron, Doghobble, Mountain Laurel, and Buffalo Nut forming dense thickets. More sporadic are Sweet Pepperbush, Wild Hydrangea, Witch Hazel, and Hearts-a-Bustin'. A small population of Yellowroot is found along a spray cliff flowing north into the main branch of Laurel Creek near 2600' elevation. Vines are less common and include Greenbrier and Wild Grapes.

Though herbs are not dense overall, small pockets exist where numerous species are found in density. Dominant herbs include Roundleaf Violet, Wood Rush, Partridgeberry, Indian Cucumber Root, Bluets, Seep Rue, Rough Seep Sedge, and New York Fern. Less common , but not rare are Painted Trillium, Windflower, Sweet White Violet, Southern Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Wood Sorrel, Wild Yam, and Three-way Sedge.

Position In The Landscape: Acidic Cove & Slope Forests dominate the more protected, steep, narrow, and tightly cleft coves and slopes with very acidic soils throughout the property at lower to middle elevations. They tend not to occur in wider, gradually sloping or "open" coves, and are almost always associated with streams. They grade into Oak-Hickory and Semi-Rich Cove Forests on this tract.

Quality & Condition: Good to excellent quality sites.

Semi-Rich Cove & Slope Forest

New York Fern Colony

Total Area (Approx): 50 acres

Species of Interest: Basswood, White Ash, Black Cherry, Pink Lady Slipper, Showy Orchis, Catesby's Trillium, Corn Lily, Rock Cap Fern, Maidenhair Fern, Royal Fern, Rattlesnake Fern, Cinnamon Fern, Crown Sedge.

Forest Structure and Dominant Vegetation:This forest type would be considered a variation of the more well known Rich Cove Forest, or Cove Hardwoods which are clearly distinguished richer soils and rich, lush, spring wildflower displays. They are recognized by a more "open" structure, a notably dense and rich herb cover in wildflowers and ferns, and the presence trees preferring increased moisture. The shrub layer at these sites is characteristically open, lacking Heath shrubs such as Mountain Laurel, Rhododendron, and Doghobble, and trees such as Hemlock and Black Birch. Richer soils tend to underlie these forests providing a broader variety of nutrients, hence a greater number of species within a small area.

Dominant trees in this forest type are Tulip Poplar, Northern Red Oak, Bitternut Hickory, and Red Maple. Occasionally, trees such as Mockernut Hickory, Scarlet Oak, and Chestnut Oak are found, which may represent a richer variant of the typical Montane Oak-Hickory Forest. The presence of Black Cherry, White Ash, and Hemlock as saplings in the understory indicate that the original compositition of the original canopy was probably more diverse.

Understory trees trees are dominated by Fraser Magnolia and understory versions of canopy trees. The total number of herb species was probably greater in both Acidic and Rich Cove Forest areas prior to human impacts. Average dbh of the canopy trees is approximately 20-22 inches. A few larger trees exceed 30 inches in diameter. Other occasional trees include Black Cherry and Black Locust. The canopy is mostly even aged though some areas harbor trees of more age classes.

Common Shrubs include Sweetshrub, Witch Hazel, Sweet Pepperbush, Wild Hydrangea and occasional patches of Rhododendron. Vines include Virginia Creeper, Poison Ivy, Fox and Summer Grapes.

Herbaceous diversity is highest in these cove forests of any forested areas on the property. Dominated species include New York Fern, Christmas Fern, Plume Solomon's Seal, White Wood Aster, Lion's Foot, Halberd Violet, Common Violet, and Groundnut. Other typical species are Pink Lady Slipper, Bunchflower, Common Wild Yam, Whorled Wild Yam, Deertongue Grass, Naked Trefoil, Marchflower, Hoary Mtn. Mint, and Indian Cucumber Root. Least commonly found were Catesby's Trillium, Showy Orchis, Smooth Solomon's Seal, Wild Geranium, Bunchflower, Corn Lily, Southern Jack in the Pulpit, Sweet Indian Plantain, and Crown Sedge.

Some slopes on the upper portion of the tract and not within coves have a canopy dominated by Tulip Poplar and Red Maple, similar to the Rich Cove Forest. In addition, one slope above Canby Cove is almost exclusively dominated by Tulip Poplar, Red Maple, and Black Birch . The herb layer is more dense than in the surrounding Montane Oak Hickory Forest community and contains mixture of the drier Rich Cove Herbs and typical Oak Hickory Herbs.

Position In The Landscape: In more gently contoured coves or gentle lower slopes. Also, on some upper slopes where the parent material may weather to a more fertile soil. Grades into Acidic Cove and Oak-Hickory Forest on this tract.

Quality & Condition: Good quality. The canopy is relatively even-aged and young though some older canopy trees remain.

Appalachian Seeps

Fraser Magnolia

Total Area (Approx): n/a

Species of Interest: see description below.

Structure and Dominant Vegetation: Also known as High Elevation Seeps, this natural community is noted for its small size, being embedded within stream couses or as spring heads. They are dominated by herbs and shrubs, and are usually shaded by trees from the surrounding forest, but can be substantially wide and "open" meaning not dense with woody vegetation.

Herbaceous diversity on the is extremely high in these seeps for extremely small areas and includes Seep Rue, Bluets, Threeway Sedge, Tall Seep Sedge, Turtlehead, Wood Nettle, Rough Seep Sedge, Cowbane, Crowfoot, Roundleaf Violets, Horse-Mint, Partridgeberry,Cinnamon Fern, Royal Fern, Maidenhair Fern, and Common Liverwort.. Shrubs in and surrounding this area include Spicebush, Sweet Pepperbush, Wild Hydrangea, Highbush Blueberry, Sweetshrub, and Hearts-a-Bustin'.

Some slopes on the upper portion of the tract and not within coves have a canopy dominated by Tulip Poplar and Red Maple, similar to the Rich Cove Forest. In addition, one slope above Canby Cove is almost exclusively dominated by Tulip Poplar, Red Maple, and Black Birch . The herb layer is more dense than in the surrounding Montane Oak Hickory Forest community and contains mixture of the drier Rich Cove Herbs and typical Oak Hickory Herbs.

Position In The Landscape: Along streams or as spring heads in both Acidic Cove and Semi-Rich Cove Forests on this tract.

Quality & Condition: Excellent.

Anthropomorphic Communities

Seep Rue

Total Area (Approx): 25 acres

Species of Interest: A typical mix of full sun, post-disturbance species from surrounding forests.

Structure and Dominant Vegetation: These are human-created or maintained site such as roads and survey lines. These old roads contain a number of early successional species which have emerged after disturbance, and which do not add significantly to the native natural diversity or integrity of the tract. Many of the tree, shrub and and some herb species found in forests adjacent to the roads can be found on the roadbed. Their density and composition changes in with aspect, slope, adjacent forest compositon, and level of historical use and impact. Typical species include saplings of most trees and shrubs found on the tract, and species which are found because of disturbance or increased light including Yarrow, Selfheal, Common St. Johnswort, Cinquefoil, Deertongue Grass, Wild Strawberry, Hayscent Fern, Common Marchflower, Balsam Marchflower, and Blackberry.

As these areas are not true natural areas and follow disturbance, they follow a pattern of succession toward a forested condition, and left untouched will eventually reforest themselves. These old roads can provide some early successional food such as grasses, saplings & shrubs or herbs for wildlife which may be less abundant in Acidic Cove or Oak-Hickory forests. However, browse marks from wildlife is notable and significantly high within the more lush coves and canopy gaps throughout the tract where a wider variety of nutrients is available from leaves, flowers, seeds, stems and roots throughout the year.

Survey line openings are too narrow and temporary to have a lasting negative impact on the forest. Depending on the forest type, small flushes herbs may arise within survey lines due to increased light on the forest floor. In Acidic Coves, species such as Windflower, Corn Lily, and Roundleaf Violet respond to the openings and will likely receed as shrubs and saplings fill back in. Through Oak-Hickory forests fewer to no herb species seem to respond. No rare species were found in these areas.

Special Status Species Present

Table Two: NCNHP Rare List Plants at Laurel Creek. Spring, 2000. (See Map Three).

Species	NC Status	US Status	NC Rank	US Rank
French Broad Heartleaf	C	FSC	S2	G2
Ashleaf Golden Banner	C	-	S2?	G3?

Approximately five flowering specimens of French Broad Heartleaf(Hexastylis rhombiformis) (one of nine species of evergreen Wild Gingers) were observed and flagged at 2650' elevation on a northeast facing slope in the first cove south of Laurel Creek. As the flower is necessary for proper identification of this species, only the flower was collected for ID. The specimens lie within the proposed conservation section of the tract within a very high quality Acidic Cove & Slope Forest. This species is often associated with sandy rivers and streams with Hemlock, Rhododendron, and Mtn. Laurel and Cove Forests. As many as 50 or more plants might be found upon more detailed investigation of the site. Specimens were flagged with yellow tape. Management of this species is likely unnecessary on this tract, as the specimens are found within a very rugged, mature forest, are tolerant of extremely dense shade, and should continue to thrive unaided.

This species is described as a Candidate (C ) and a Federal Species of Concern (FSC). In general, NC Candidate species are those nominated for state-level Endangered or Threatened status. They generally have less than 20 populations in the state and are usually reduced and extirpated with habitat destruction such as timbering. Species designated as NC Candidate species are found primarily or only in this state, and are described as species "whose fate depends largely on their conservation here" (NCNHP, 1999) . Transylvania, Henderson, Buncombe, and Polk counties of NC and Pickens County, SC, comprise its range in North America, and Transylvania is the westernmost county of its occurrence. Since it was first described in 1986, it has been documented less than 20 times in NC, as indicated by S2 and G2 Ranks. S2 and G2 Ranks are also indicative of species that are considered to be "imperiled" in both NC and regionally due to extreme rarity or other reasons making it vulnerable to extirpation.

Approximately 5 flowering specimens of Ashleaf Golden Banner (Thermopsis fraxinifolia)- also a Candidate species - were found at 2800 feet elevation on the first north facing ridge inside the southeastern corner of the proposed conservation tract and were flagged with yellow tape. This bean family member is known from only 9 NC counties, seven of which are mountainous, including Buncombe, Burke, Henderson, Jackson*, Polk, Stokes*, Surry*, Transylvania, and Yancey*; (asterisk* indicates counties with no sightings since 1979.) None of the two Piedmont counties have reported it within the last 20 years, and only 5 of its 7 mountain counties have current sightings within the last 20 years. Transylvania is currently the westernmost county of currently known populations for this species in NC.

Often, members of the bean family naturally propagate from disturbances like canopy gaps, fire, or soil exposure from fallen trees. However, once established they may thrive for long periods of time as perennial species. These specimens appear to be thriving in a former skid trail from previous timbering. The viability of this species on this tract is of concern, as human disturbance such as timbering or roadbuilding does not necessarily benefit these species if parent specimens are destroyed. Additionally, this species is not found along or beside roadways or side-cast from road construction. This population should be monitored yearly to determine its potential increase or decrease.

Site Significance

Two extremely rare plant species are found in the conservation portion of the tract. Both are found primarily in NC regionally, and are currently both candidate species for NC Endangered or Threatened status. Additionally, 139 plant species are found on this tract and exotic plant invasion is not an issue yet. (See Map Four). Thirteen of these species are southern Appalachian Endemic species meaning they are found in the world only in this part of the Appalachian Range, and 7 of 13 are southern Appalachian endemics known only in the southern part of the range.

The conservation site is regionally significant due to its connection with the western boundary of DuPont State Forest, as well as for its size and central location within an area of increasing second home and retirement developments. Connectivity with DuPont State Forest elevates its importance, by increasing and buffering a regionally protected area, continuing genetic exchange among plant & animal species within the areas, and extending natural community and topographic diversity within the area as a whole.

At least six natural communities in various stages of maturity are found on the tract. Two small old growth Acidic Cove Forests remain on the tract. Due to steepness and sometimes rugged conditions, this forest type remains mostly in excellent shape throughout the property and will continue to mature in the future.

Aesthetics of the site include good eastern and western winter views, three main streams with numerous perennial feeder streams two of which are considered High Quality Waters by the NCDEHR (see Map Five). Appalachian Seeps rich and dense in herbs, and numerous small waterfalls mostly along Laurel and Williamson Creeks are very attractive as well.

Management Recommendations

Conservation and Development Tracts: The landowner, Dr. Paul Fekete, requested biological surveys of the site to ensure that rare plants, animals, and sensitive forest areas are set aside for conservation easement and protected or buffered when possible in the planned development area. Dr. Fekete is receptive and enthusiastic about avoiding sensitive areas within the development tract such as streams, rock outcrops, areas of higher species richness, and any other unique or sensitive areas which might yet be found.

Approximately 30 to 40 homesites will be located in the northern and eastern portion of the tract. Fortunately, this area is more gently sloping, and contains primarily dry Oak-Hickory Forest which contains the least overall forest integrity and species diversity of any area on the tract and has been impacted much more than the conservation tract. Old logging roads are already in place and can be used in future development.

Forests within the proposed conservation area contain examples of all forests and habitats found on the property, except for the Pitch Pine Forest found in the northern section. Species richness, diversity, and density is overall much higher in this section in the conservation area than in the northern development area and protection of this area ensures the greatest protection for numerous plant species on a small area of land.

In terms of maintaining the ecological and aesthetic integrity of the development tract, it is suggested that homesites be located and limited to a minimum of 75 feet below the main ridgeline and secondary ridgelines when possible to avoid topping or severing the visual continuity of the treeline as seen from elsewhere in the mountains. This still allows exceptional vistas, which many buyers seek. Homesites should be clustered as much as possible while allowing for privacy. More gently sloping lands can be divided into 3 to 5 acre into sites while steeper tracts would be allotted 10 acres. This follows the county road ordinance for road widths and allows the greatest possible conservation area to be set aside.

The landowner has been made aware of more sensitive soils to be avoided on the development portion, and is attempting to stay on the drier, less diverse ridges and slopes. This northeastern portion is gently to moderately sloping, easily accessible, and requires no stream crossings.

AEC has suggested that the conservation tract attempt to include as many or as much of each of the following as possible.

• The largest possible land area
• Connected portions of both major watersheds
• The most biologically rich areas
• Examples of each natural community
• Unique land forms

At this point in time, Dr. Fekete plans creating a large, protected area which buffers the entirety of Williamson Creek west to the western property boundary, and the entire southern portion of the tract south of Laurel Creek which is to be buffered on the north side, at least parallel to the creek. The eastern and western watersheds will then be linked by two by a narrow strip parallel to the southwestern-most property line. Any additional portions adjacent to this area which can be buffered to the north of Laurel Creek should be added to the conservation tract.

Exotic & Invasive Species: Non-native, invasive species are not a problem on this property, though they could become so in the development area in the future with future erosion control work and introduction of non-native nursery stock by residents. Periodic survey for these species could occur on the conservation easement border, and interior of the Semi-Rich Cove & Slope area to ensure lack of future introductions. The only specimens of Multiflora Rose, a very problematic exotic plant, was pulled from the roadbed in the conservation tract. This species is highly invasive, easily spread by wildlife, and tolerable of low light conditions for long periods of time. Others may likely exist on the roadbed or in the adjacent forest border and should be pulled as well.

Canopy Gaps, Blowdowns & Limbfall: "Canopy Gaps" are natural openings or holes in the forest canopy made when large trees fall from old age, high winds, exposure, or other natural forces. Unless any of these "blowdowns" fall on roadways or neighboring property, they should be left entirely alone within the border of the conservation area. It is extremely important that they be allowed to decay within their environment, as this creates a vector for the existence of a variety of fungi, creates new soil & soil topography, and further enhances the structure, diversity, and richness of the forest. These blowdowns increase forest complexity by creating countless niche space for insects, bird, and other animals which are dependent on decomposition of trees. Additionally, clearing activities around these trees would create even further damage to other native species. The best policy is to leave them alone.

Plant Species Present on the Property

Growth Form	Common Name	Latin Binomial
Canopy Tree	Red Maple	Acer rubrum
Canopy Tree	Black Birch	Betula lenta
Canopy Tree	Bitternut Hickory	Carya cordiformis
Canopy Tree	Mockernut Hickory	Carya tomentosa
Canopy Tree	American Beech	Fagus grandifolia
Canopy Tree	Silverbell	Halesia tetraptera
Canopy Tree	Tulip Poplar	Liriodendron tulipifera
Canopy Tree	Fraser Magnolia	Magnolia fraseri (S)
Canopy Tree	Black Gum	Nyssa sylvatica
Canopy Tree	White Pine	Pinus strobus
Canopy Tree	Virginia Pine	Pinus virginiana
Canopy Tree	White Oak	Quercus alba
Canopy Tree	Scarlet Oak	Quercus coccinea
Canopy Tree	Chestnut Oak	Quercus montana
Canopy Tree	Northern Red Oak	Quercus rubra var. rubra
Canopy Tree	Black Oak	Quercus velutina
Canopy Tree	Black Locust	Robinia psuedoacacia
Canopy Tree	Canada Hemlock	Tsuga canadensis
Understory Tree	Serviceberry	Amelanchier arborea
Understory Tree	Dogwood	Cornus florida
Understory Tree	American Holly	Ilex opaca
Understory Tree	Sourwood	Oxydendron arborea
Understory Tree	Rosebay Rhododendron	Rhododendron maximum
Understory Tree	Sassafras	Sassafras albidum
Shrub	Sweetshrub	Calycanthus floridus
Shrub	Sweet Pepperbush	Clethra acuminata (S/C)
Shrub	Hearts-a-Bustin'	Euonymous americana
Shrub	Huckleberry	Gaylussacia ursina (S)
Shrub	Witch Hazel	Hammamelis virginiana
Shrub	Wild Hydrangea	Hydrangea arborescens
Shrub	Mountain Laurel	Kalmia latifolia
Shrub	Doghobble	Leucothoe fontansiana (S)
Shrub	Spicebush	Lindera benzoin
Shrub	Buffalo Nut	Pyrularia pubera (SC)
Shrub	Flame Azalea	Rhododendron calendulaceum
Shrub	Rosebay rhodendron	Rhododendron maximum
Shrub	Horse Sugar	Symplocos tinctoria
Shrub	Smooth Highbush Blueberry	Vaccinium corymbosum
Shrub	Hillside Blueberry	Vaccinium pallidum
Shrub	Deerberry	Vaccinium staminium var. candicans
Shrub	Yellowroot	Xanthorhiza simplissisima
Vine	Virgin's Bower	Clematis virginiana
Vine	Trailing Arbutus	Epigaea repens
Vine	Virginia creeper	Parthenocissus quinquefolius
Vine	Allegheny Blackberry	Rubus allegheniensis
Vine	Swamp Dewberry	Rubus hispidus
Vine	Greenbrier	Smilax hispida
Vine	Greenbrier	Smilax rotundifolia
Vine	Poison Ivy	Toxicodenron radicans
Vine	Fox Grape	Vitis labrusca
Wildflower	Windflower	Anemonella thalictroides
Wildflower	Groundnut	Apios americana
Wildflower	Pale Indian Plantain	Arnoglossum atriplicifolia
Wildflower	Poke Milkweed	Asclepias exaltata
Wildflower	Heartleaf Aster	Aster cordifolius
Wildflower	White Wood Aster	Aster divaricatus
Wildflower	White Turtlehead	Chelone glabra
Wildflower	Striped Wintergreen	Chimaphila maculata
Wildflower	Corn Lily	Clintonia umbellulata (A)+C88
Wildflower	Northern Stoneroot	Collinsonia canadensis
Wildflower	Cancer Root	Conophilis americana
Wildflower	Puttyroot	Corallorhiza maculata var maculata
Wildflower	Greater Coreopsis	Coreopsis major var. rigida
Wildflower	Pink Lady Slipper	Cyperidium acuale
Wildflower	Whorled Wild Yam	Dioscorea quaternata
Wildflower	Common Wild Yam	Dioscorea villosa
Wildflower	Robin's Fleabane	Erigeron pulchellus
Wildflower	Woodland Joe Pye	Eupatorium fistulosum
Wildflower	Roundleaf Joe Pye	Eupatorium rotundifolium
Wildflower	Upland Boneset	Eupatorium sessilifolia var. sessilifolia
Wildflower	Galax	Galax aphylla
Wildflower	Showy Orchis	Galearis spectabilis
Wildflower	Bowman's Root	Gillenia trifoliata
Wildflower	Wild Gernanium	Geranium maculatum
Wildflower	Rattlesnake Orchid	Goodyera pubescens
Wildflower	Woodland Sunflower	Helianthus strumosus
Wildflower	French Broad Heartleaf	Hexastylis rhombiformis (S)
Wildflower	Rattlesnake Hawkweed	Hieraceum venosum
Wildflower	Large Houstonia	Houstonia purpurea
Wildflower	Bluets	Houstonia serphyllifolia (S/C)
Wildflower	Common St. Johnswort	Hypericum perforatum
Wildflower	Yellow Star Grass	Hypoxis hirsuta
Wildflower	Wild Iris	Iris cristata
Wildflower	Great Lobelia	Lobelia syphilicata
Wildflower	Whorled Loostrife	Lysimachia quadrifolia
Wildflower	Solomon's Plume	Maianthemum racemosum
Wildflower	Indian Cucumber Root	Medeola virginiana
Wildflower	Partridgeberry	Mitchella repens
Wildflower	Cowbane	Oxipolis rigidoir
Wildflower	Balsam Marchflower	Packera (Senecio) anonymous
Wildflower	Liferoot, Marchflower	Packera (Senecio) aureus
Wildflower	Smooth Solomons Seal	Polygonatum biflorum var. biflorum
Wildflower	Five Fingers	Potentilla canadensis var. canadensis
Wildflower	Lion's Foot	Prenanthes serpentaria
Wildflower	Orange Mandarin	Prosartes lanuginosum (A)
Wildflower	Mountain Mint	Pycnanthemum incanum var. puberulum
Wildflower	Crowfoot	Ranunculus arborvitus
Wildflower	Buttercup	Ranunculus recurvatus
Wildflower	Black Snakeroot	Sanicula canadense
Wildflower	Bluestem Goldenrod	Solidago caesia
Wildflower	Seep Rue	Thalictrum clavatum (S)
Wildflower	Ashleaf Golden Banner	Thermopsis fraxinifolia (S)
Wildflower	Catesby's Trillium	Trillium catesbaei
Wildflower	Painted Trillium	Trillium undulatam
Wildflower	Perfoliate Bellwort	Uvularia perfoliatum
Wildflower	Bunchflower	Veratrum parviflorum (S)
Wildflower	Lanceleaf Bunchflower	Veratrum latifolium (S/C)
Wildflower	Sweet White Violet	Viola blanda
Wildflower	Halberdleaf Violet	Viola hastata
Wildflower	Roundleaf Violet	Viola rotundafolia
Wildflower	Common Violet	Viola sororia
Fern Ally	Running Cedar	Diphasiastrum digitatum
Fern Ally	Common Clubmoss	Huperzia lucidula
Fern	Maidenhair Fern	Adiantum pedatum
Fern	Southern Lady Fern	Athyrium aplenoides
Fern	Grape Fern	Botrychium virginianum
Fern	Hayscented Fern	Dennstaedtia punctilobula
Fern	Cinnamon Fern	Osmunda cinnamonea
Fern	Royal Fern	Osmunda regalis
Fern	Rock Cap Fern	Polypodium virginiunum
Fern	Christmas Fern	Polystichum acrostichoides
Fern	Broad Beech Fern	Hexagonoptera thelyptris
Fern	New York Fern	Thelyptris novaborensis
Sedge	Bunched Seep Sedge	Carex aestivalis
Sedge	Crown Sedge	Carex laxiculmis var. laxiculmis
Sedge	Pennsylvania sedge	Carex pennsylvanica
Sedge	Rough Seep Sedge	Carex scabrata
Sedge	Bog Bulrush	Scirpus polyphyllus
Sedge	Wood Rush	Luzula echinata
Grass	Poverty Grass	Danthonia spicatum
Grass	Forked Witch Grass	Dichanthelium dichomatum
Grass	Deer Tongue	Panicum clandestinium
Rush	Juncus Grass	Juncus effusus
Rush	Seep Rush	Juncus gymnocarpus
Rush	Wood Rush	Luzula acuminata var. acuminata
Lichen	Lungwort Lichen	Pulmonaria spp.
Lichen	Old Man's Beard	Usnea barbarea
Moss	Haircap Moss	Polytrichum spp.
Moss	Log Moss	Hypnum curvifolium
Moss	Outcrop Moss	Dicranum fulvum
Moss	Whirled Moss	Rhodobryum ontariense

References

NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Division of Water Quality. Classifications and Water Quality Standards Assigned to the Waters of the French Borad River Basin. Reprinted from NC Administrative Code 15A NCAC 2B.0304. Raleigh, NC.

NC Geologic Survey. Brown, Philip M., editor. Geologic Map of North Carolina. 1985. NC Department of Natural Resources and Community Development. Raleigh, NC.

NC Natural Heritage Program, Editor: Amoroso, Jame L. Natural Heritage Program List of the Rare Plant Species of North Carolina. Division of Parks and Recreation. DENHR, 1997.

Radford, A.E. Ahles, H.E, and Bell, C.R. 1964. Manual of the Vascular Flora of the Carolinas. University of North Carolina Press. Chapel Hill, NC.

Schafale, M.P, and Weakley, A.S. Classification of the Natural Communities of North Carolina, Third Approximation. NCNHP. Division of Parks and Recreation. DEHNR, 1990.

Weakley, A. April, 1999. Flora of Virginia and the Carolinas: A working draft. The Nature Conservancy. Raleigh, NC.

US Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, US Forest Service, NC Agricultural Experiment Station. Soil Survey of Transylvania County, NC. US Governement Printing Office. Washington, DC. January, 1974.