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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAbundant Solar_Long Form EAF_Part 1_9-16-19Full Environmental Assessment Form Part I - Project and Setting Instructions for Completing Part 1 Part 1 is to be completed by the applicant or project sponsor. Responses become part of the application for approval or funding, are subject to public review, and may be subject to further verification. Complete Part 1 based on information currently available. If additional research or investigation would be needed to fully respond to any item, please answer as thoroughly as possible based on current information; indicate whether missing information does not exist, or is not reasonably available to the sponsor; and, when possible, generally describe work or studies which would be necessary to update or fully develop that information. Applicants/sponsors must complete all items in Sections A & B. In Sections C, D & E, most items contain an initial question that must be answered either "Yes" or "No". If the answer to the initial question is "Yes", complete the sub -questions that follow. If the answer to the initial question is "No", proceed to the next question. Section F allows the project sponsor to identify and attach any additional information. Section G requires the name and signature of the applicant or project sponsor to verify that the information contained in Part lis accurate and complete. A. Project and Applicant/Sponsor Information. Name of Action or Project: Groton Solar Array Project Location (describe, and attach a general location map): Tax Parcel ID: 20.-1-31.22, 704 Cortland Road, Town of Groton, Tompkins County (see location map & site drawing) Brief Description of Proposed Action (include purpose or need): Abundant Solar Power (Groton), LLC plans to install a 5.0 MW -AC solar farm on approximately 40.3 -acres of vacant farmland (tax parcel ID: 20.-1-31.22), located Cortland Road in the Town of Groton. The 37.1 -acre project area will consist of about 2,254 free-standing, tracking solar tables (total of 27,048 modules/panels) to be installed on vacant farmland. Anchored into the ground via H -piles, each row of solar tables will be about 8.1 ft. in height, 6.5 ft. in width and of variable length. The solar panels will occupy approximately 28.5 acres of the project site and the ground disturbance will be limited to about 15.3 acres. Low -growth pollinator -friendly seed mix will be planted underneath and in between the solar tables. For utility connection, both underground and overhead electrical lines will be installed as required by the utility company. Other project elements include: 25 -ft. rear and side setbacks, 30 -ft. front setback, agricultural fencing, security gate, small operational & control structures, and mostly unimproved access roads. Abundant Solar Power (Groton), LLC will participate in the NYSERDA NY -Sun Initiative to provide clean energy to local businesses and residences. Name of Applicant/Sponsor: Abundant Solar Power, Inc., on behalf of Abundant Solar Power (Groton), LLC, which is to be formed. Contact: Richard Lu Address: 700 W Metro Park City/PO: Rochester Project Contact (if not same as sponsor; give name and title/role): Address: City/PO: Property Owner (if not same as sponsor): Address: City/PO: Page 1 of 13 Telephone: 585-520-1048 E -Mail: State: NY Zip Code: 14623 Telephone: E -Mail: State: I Zip Code: Telephone: E -Mail: State: I Zip Code: FEAF 2019 B. Government Approvals B. Government Approvals, Funding, or Sponsorship. ("Funding" includes grants, loans, tax relief, and any other forms of financial assistance.) Government Entity a. City Counsel, Town Board, ®Yes❑No or Village Board of Trustees b. City, Town or Village ®Yes❑No Planning Board or Commission c. City, Town or ❑Yes®No Village Zoning Board of Appeals d. Other local agencies e. County agencies f. Regional agencies g. State agencies h. Federal agencies ❑Yes ®No If Yes: Identify Agency and Approval(s) Required Town Board - Decommissioning Agreement Approval, Special Use Permit Planning Board - Site Plan Approval ®Yes❑No County IDA - PILOT Agreement ❑Yes ®No Pending Pending Pending ®Yes❑No NYSERDA - Funding; SHPO sign -off; NYSDOT - Pending Work Permit; NYSDEC- Wetland Permit (possible) ®Yes❑No US Army Corps - Wetlands Permit Pending i. Coastal Resources. i. Is the project site within a Coastal Area, or the waterfront area of a Designated Inland Waterway? Application Date (Actual or projected) ❑ Yes ®No ii. Is the project site located in a community with an approved Local Waterfront Revitalization Program? ❑ Yes®No iii. Is the project site within a Coastal Erosion Hazard Area? ❑ Yes®No C. Planning and Zoning C.1. Planning and zoning actions. Will administrative or legislative adoption, or amendment of a plan, local law, ordinance, rule or regulation be the ❑Yes®No only approval(s) which must be granted to enable the proposed action to proceed? • If Yes, complete sections C, F and G. • If No, proceed to question C.2 and complete all remaining sections and questions in Part 1 C.2. Adopted land use plans. a. Do any municipally- adopted (city, town, village or county) comprehensive land use plan(s) include the site DYes❑No where the proposed action would be located? If Yes, does the comprehensive plan include specific recommendations for the site where the proposed action ❑YesONo would be located? b. Is the site of the proposed action within any local or regional special planning district (for example: Greenway; ❑ YesONo Brownfield Opportunity Area (BOA); designated State or Federal heritage area; watershed management plan; or other?) If Yes, identify the plan(s): c. Is the proposed action located wholly or partially within an area listed in an adopted municipal open space plan, ®Yes❑No or an adopted municipal farmland protection plan? If Yes, identify the plan(s): Tompkins County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan Page 2 of 13 C.3. Zoning a. Is the site of the proposed action located in a municipality with an adopted zoning law or ordinance. ® Yes❑No If Yes, what is the zoning classification(s) including any applicable overlay district? RA - Rural Agricultural b. Is the use permitted or allowed by a special or conditional use permit? ®Yes❑No c. Is a zoning change requested as part of the proposed action? ❑ Yes®No If Yes, i. What is the proposed new zoning for the site? CA. Existing community services. a. In what school district is the project site located? Groton Central School District b. What police or other public protection forces serve the project site? Tompkins County Sheriffs Department c. Which fire protection and emergency medical services serve the project site? Groton Fire department d. What parks serve the project site? Groton Memorial Park D. Project Details D.I. Proposed and Potential Development a. What is the general nature of the proposed action (e.g., residential, industrial, commercial, recreational; if mixed, include all components)? Commercial Solar Energy Facility Installation b. a. Total acreage of the site of the proposed action? +/-37.1 acres b. Total acreage to be physically disturbed? +/-15.3 acres c. Total acreage (project site and any contiguous properties) owned or controlled by the applicant or project sponsor? +/-40.3 acres Is the proposed action an expansion of an existing project or use? ❑ Yes® No L If Yes, what is the approximate percentage of the proposed expansion and identify the units (e.g., acres, miles, housing units, square feet)? % Units: d. Is the proposed action a subdivision, or does it include a subdivision? ❑Yes Olo If Yes, i. Purpose or type of subdivision? (e.g., residential, industrial, commercial; if mixed, specify types) ii. Is a cluster/conservation layout proposed? iii. Number of lots proposed? iv. Minimum and maximum proposed lot sizes? Minimum Maximum ❑Yes ❑No Will the proposed action be constructed in multiple phases? -]Yes[Z]Noi. If No, anticipated period of construction: +/-4 months ii. If Yes: • Total number of phases anticipated • Anticipated commencement date of phase 1 (including demolition) month year • Anticipated completion date of final phase month wear • Generally describe connections or relationships among phases, including any contingencies where progress of one phase may determine timing or duration of future phases: Page 3 of 13 f. Does the project include new residential uses? ❑Yes®No If Yes, show numbers of units proposed. One Family Two Family Three Family Multiple Familyf� or more Initial Phase At completion of all phases g. Does the proposed action include new non-residential construction (including expansions)? ®Yes❑No If Yes, i. Total number of structures 2,254 tables plus two transformer pads ii. Dimensions (in feet) of largest proposed structure: 8.1 ft max height; 6.5 ft width; and variable length applies to one solar table iii. Approximate extent of building space to be heated or cooled: 0 square feet h. Does the proposed action include construction or other activities that will result in the impoundment of any ❑Yes®No liquids, such as creation of a water supply, reservoir, pond, lake, waste lagoon or other storage? If Yes, i. Purpose of the impoundment: ii. If a water impoundment, the principal source of the water: ❑ Ground water ❑ Surface water streams El Other specify: iii. If other than water, identify the type of impounded/contained liquids and their source. iv. Approximate size of the proposed impoundment. Volume: million gallons; surface area: acres v. Dimensions of the proposed dam or impounding structure: height; length vi. Construction method/materials for the proposed dam or impounding structure (e.g., earth fill, rock, wood, concrete): D.2. Project Operations a. Does the proposed action include any excavation, mining, or dredging, during construction, operations, or both? ❑Yes®No (Not including general site preparation, grading or installation of utilities or foundations where all excavated materials will remain onsite) If Yes: i .What is the purpose of the excavation or dredging? ii. How much material (including rock, earth, sediments, etc.) is proposed to be removed from the site? • Volume (specify tons or cubic yards): • Over what duration of time? iii. Describe nature and characteristics of materials to be excavated or dredged, and plans to use, manage or dispose of them. iv. Will there be onsite dewatering or processing of excavated materials? ❑Yes❑No If yes, describe. v. What is the total area to be dredged or excavated? acres vi. What is the maximum area to be worked at any one time? acres vii. What would be the maximum depth of excavation or dredging? feet viii. Will the excavation require blasting? ❑Yes❑No ix. Summarize site reclamation goals and plan: b. Would the proposed action cause or result in alteration of, increase or decrease in size of, or encroachment ❑Yes©No into any existing wetland, waterbody, shoreline, beach or adjacent area? If Yes: i. Identify the wetland or waterbody which would be affected (by name, water index number, wetland map number or geographic description): No mapped State Wetland - a wetland delineation to confirm the absence of wetlands is currently pending. Only one mapped Federal Freshwater Pond (not included within the project area). Page 4 of 13 H. Describe how the proposed action would affect that waterbody or wetland, e.g. excavation, fill, placement of structures, or alteration of channels, banks and shorelines. Indicate extent of activities, alterations and additions in square feet or acres: The Federal Freshwater Pond is not included within the proposed project area and will be avoided during construction. iii. Will the proposed action cause or result in disturbance to bottom sediments? ❑Ycs ONo If Yes, describe: iv. Will the proposed action cause or result in the destruction or removal of aquatic vegetation? ❑ YesONo If Yes: • acres of aquatic vegetation proposed to be removed: • expected acreage of aquatic vegetation remaining after project completion: • purpose of proposed removal (e.g. beach clearing, invasive species control, boat access): • proposed method of plant removal: • if chemical/herbicide treatment will be used, specify product(s): v. Describe any proposed reclamation/mitigation following disturbance: c. Will the proposed action use, or create a new demand for water? ❑Yes ONo If Yes: i. Total anticipated water usage/demand per day: gallons/day H. Will the proposed action obtain water from an existing public water supply? ❑Yes ❑No If Yes: • Name of district or service area: • Does the existing public water supply have capacity to serve the proposal? ❑ Yes❑ No • Is the project site in the existing district? ❑ Yes❑ No • Is expansion of the district needed? ❑ Yes❑ No • Do existing lines serve the project site? ❑ Yes❑ No iii. Will line extension within an existing district be necessary to supply the project? ❑Yes ❑No If Yes: • Describe extensions or capacity expansions proposed to serve this project: • Source(s) of supply for the district: iv. Is a new water supply district or service area proposed to be formed to serve the project site? ❑ Yes❑No If, Yes: • Applicant/sponsor for new district: • Date application submitted or anticipated: • Proposed source(s) of supply for new district: v. If a public water supply will not be used, describe plans to provide water supply for the project: vi. If water supply will be from wells (public or private), what is the maximum pumping capacity: gallons/minute. d. Will the proposed action generate liquid wastes? ❑ Yes ONo If Yes: L Total anticipated liquid waste generation per day: gallons/day ii. Nature of liquid wastes to be generated (e.g., sanitary wastewater, industrial; if combination, describe all components and approximate volumes or proportions of each): iii. Will the proposed action use any existing public wastewater treatment facilities? ❑Yes ❑No If Yes: • Name of wastewater treatment plant to be used: • Name of district: • Does the existing wastewater treatment plant have capacity to serve the project? ❑ Yes ❑No • Is the project site in the existing district? ❑ Yes ❑No • Is expansion of the district needed? ❑Yes ❑No Page 5 of 13 Do existing sewer lines serve the project site? ❑Yes❑No Will a line extension within an existing district be necessary to serve the project? ❑Yes❑No If Yes: • Describe extensions or capacity expansions proposed to serve this project: iv. Will a new wastewater (sewage) treatment district be formed to serve the project site? ❑Yes❑No If Yes: • Applicant/sponsor for new district: • Date application submitted or anticipated: • What is the receiving water for the wastewater discharge? V. If public facilities will not be used, describe plans to provide wastewater treatment for the project, including specifying proposed receiving water (name and classification if surface discharge or describe subsurface disposal plans): vi. Describe any plans or designs to capture, recycle or reuse liquid waste: e. Will the proposed action disturb more than one acre and create stormwater runoff, either from new point ®Yes ❑No sources (i.e. ditches, pipes, swales, curbs, gutters or other concentrated flows of stormwater) or non -point source (i.e. sheet flow) during construction or post construction? If Yes: L How much impervious surface will the project create in relation to total size of project parcel? Square feet or +/-0.2 acres (impervious surface) Square feet or 40.3 acres (parcel size) ii. Describe types of new point sources. None iii. Where will the stormwater runoff be directed (i.e. on-site stormwater management facility/structures, adjacent properties, groundwater, on-site surface water or off-site surface waters)? The site will be mostly grassy and storm water will most likely be directed to adjacent properties through sheet flow. • If to surface waters, identify receiving water bodies or wetlands: Nearby Federal Freshwater Pond • Will stormwater runoff flow to adjacent properties? O Yes❑ No iv. Does the proposed plan minimize impervious surfaces, use pervious materials or collect and re -use stormwater? ❑ Yes®No f. Does the proposed action include, or will it use on-site, one or more sources of air emissions, including fuel combustion, waste incineration, or other processes or operations? If Yes, identify: i. Mobile sources during project operations (e.g., heavy equipment, fleet or delivery vehicles) ii. Stationary sources during construction (e.g., power generation, structural heating, batch plant, crushers) iii. Stationary sources during operations (e.g., process emissions, large boilers, electric generation) g. Will any air emission sources named in D.2.f (above), require a NY State Air Registration, Air Facility Permit, or Federal Clean Air Act Title IV or Title V Permit? If Yes: i. Is the project site located in an Air quality non -attainment area? (Area routinely or periodically fails to meet ambient air quality standards for all or some parts of the year) ii. In addition to emissions as calculated in the application, the project will generate: • Tons/year (short tons) of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) • Tons/year (short tons) of Nitrous Oxide (N2O) • Tons/year (short tons) of Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) • Tons/year (short tons) of Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6) • Tons/year (short tons) of Carbon Dioxide equivalent of Hydroflourocarbons (HFCs) • Tons/year (short tons) of Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPS) Page 6 of 13 ❑Yes ®No ❑Yes ®No ❑Yes ❑ No h. Will the proposed action generate or emit methane (including, but not limited to, sewage treatment plants, ❑Yes®No landfills, composting facilities)? If Yes: L Estimate methane generation in tons/year (metric): ii. Describe any methane capture, control or elimination measures included in project design (e.g., combustion to generate heat or electricity, flaring): i. Will the proposed action result in the release of air pollutants from open-air operations or processes, such as ❑Yes®No quarry or landfill operations? If Yes: Describe operations and nature of emissions (e.g., diesel exhaust, rock particulates/dust): j. Will the proposed action result in a substantial increase in traffic above present levels or generate substantial ❑Yes® No new demand for transportation facilities or services? If Yes: i. When is the peak traffic expected (Check all that apply): ❑ Morning ❑ Evening ❑Weekend ❑ Randomly between hours of to ii. For commercial activities only, projected number of truck trips/day and type (e.g., semi trailers and dump trucks): iii. Parking spaces: Existing Proposed Net increase/decrease iv. Does the proposed action include any shared use parking? ❑Yes ❑No v. If the proposed action includes any modification of existing roads, creation of new roads or change in existing access, describe: vi. Are public/private transportation service(s) or facilities available within 'h mile of the proposed site? ❑Yes❑ No vii Will the proposed action include access to public transportation or accommodations for use of hybrid, electric [-]Yes[-] No or other alternative fueled vehicles? viii. Will the proposed action include plans for pedestrian or bicycle accommodations for connections to existing ❑Yes❑ No pedestrian or bicycle routes? k. Will the proposed action (for commercial or industrial projects only) generate new or additional demand ❑Yesg]No for energy? If Yes: L Estimate annual electricity demand during operation of the proposed action: ii. Anticipated sources/suppliers of electricity for the project (e.g., on-site combustion, on-site renewable, via grid/local utility, or other): iii. Will the proposed action require a new, or an upgrade, to an existing substation? 1. Hours of operation. Answer all items which apply. i. During Construction: • Monday - Friday: Will comply with Town Ordinance • Saturday: minimal if anv • Sunday: minimal if anv • Holidays: minimal if anv ii. During Operations: • Monday - Friday: • Saturday: • Sunday: • Holidays: Page 7of13 24 hour per day 24 hour per day 24 hour per day 24 hour per day [-]Yes[-] No m. Will the proposed action produce noise that will exceed existing ambient noise levels during construction, ® Yes ❑No operation, or both? If yes: i. Provide details including sources, time of day and duration: Intermittent construction noise could exceed existing ambient noise levels for short periods of time during daytime construction activities. Once operational, noise levels exceeding the existing ambient noise levels are not anticipated. ii. Will the proposed action remove existing natural barriers that could act as a noise barrier or screen? ❑ Yes ®No Describe: n. Will the proposed action have outdoor lighting? ❑ Yes ®No If yes: L Describe source(s), location(s), height of fixture(s), direction/aim, and proximity to nearest occupied structures: H. Will proposed action remove existing natural barriers that could act as a light barrier or screen? ❑ Yes El No Describe: o. Does the proposed action have the potential to produce odors for more than one hour per day? ❑ Yes ®No If Yes, describe possible sources, potential frequency and duration of odor emissions, and proximity to nearest occupied structures: p. Will the proposed action include any bulk storage of petroleum (combined capacity of over 1,100 gallons) ❑ Yes ®No or chemical products 185 gallons in above ground storage or any amount in underground storage? If Yes: i. Product(s) to be stored ii. Volume(s) per unit time (e.g., month, year) iii. Generally, describe the proposed storage facilities: q. Will the proposed action (commercial, industrial and recreational projects only) use pesticides (i.e., herbicides, ❑ Yes ®No insecticides) during construction or operation? If Yes: L Describe proposed treatment(s): Low -growth pollinator -friendly seed mix will be planted and will not require mowing or any chemical treatment for site maintenance. H. Will the proposed action use Integrated Pest Management Practices? ❑ Yes ®No r. Will the proposed action (commercial or industrial projects only) involve or require the management or disposal ❑ Yes ❑No of solid waste (excluding hazardous materials)? If Yes: i. Describe any solid waste(s) to be generated during construction or operation of the facility: • Construction: +/-1.000 cubic vards 4@00 per +/-4 months (unit of time) • Operation : Not anticipated tons per (unit of time) H. Describe any proposals for on-site minimization, recycling or reuse of materials to avoid disposal as solid waste: • Construction: Construction debris of disposable wrapping and containers will be recycled when appropriate. • Operation: N/A iii. Proposed disposal methods/facilities for solid waste generated on-site: • Construction: Dumpsters will be available on-site for recyclable and non -recyclable materials. Site materials that are not indicated to be salvageable, including debris, will be removed to a permitted landfill. • Operation: N/A Page 8 of 13 s. Does the proposed action include construction or modification of a solid waste management facility? ❑ Yes ® No If Yes: i. Type of management or handling of waste proposed for the site (e.g., recycling or transfer station, composting, landfill, or other disposal activities): H. Anticipated rate of disposal/processing: • Tons/month, if transfer or other non-combustion/thermal treatment, or • Tons/hour, if combustion or thermal treatment iii. If landfill, anticipated site life: years t. Will the proposed action at the site involve the commercial generation, treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous ❑Yes❑No waste? If Yes: i. Name(s) of all hazardous wastes or constituents to be generated, handled or managed at facility: ii. Generally describe processes or activities involving hazardous wastes or constituents: iii. Specify amount to be handled or generated tons/month iv. Describe any proposals for on-site minimization, recycling or reuse of hazardous constituents: v. Will any hazardous wastes be disposed at an existing offsite hazardous waste facility? If Yes: provide name and location of facility: If No: describe proposed management of any hazardous wastes which will not be sent to a hazardous waste facility: E. Site and Setting of Proposed Action E.I. Land uses on and surrounding the project site a. Existing land uses. i. Check all uses that occur on, adjoining and near the project site. ❑ Urban ❑ Industrial ❑ Commercial 0 Residential (suburban) 0 Rural (non-farm) ❑ Forest ® Agriculture ❑ Aquatic ❑ Other (specify): ii. If mix of uses, generally describe: b. Land uses and covertypes on the project site. Land use or Covertype • Roads, buildings, and other paved or impervious surfaces • Forested (woodlands surrounded by farm fields) • Meadows, grasslands or brushlands (non- agricultural, including abandoned agricultural) • Agricultural (includes active orchards, field, greenhouse etc.) • Surface water features (lakes, ponds, streams, rivers, etc.) • Wetlands (freshwater or tidal) • Non -vegetated (bare rock, earth or fill) • Other Describe: Solar panels with pollinator -friendly and low -growth grass underneath ❑Yes❑No Current Acreage After Change Acreage Project Completion (Acres +/-) 0 +/-0.2 +0.2 +/-13.8 0 -13.8 +/-23.3 +/-8.4 -14.9 0 +1-28.5 +28.5 Page 9 of 13 c. Is the project site presently used by members of the community for public recreation? L If Yes: explain: ❑Yes❑✓ No d. Are there any facilities serving children, the elderly, people with disabilities (e.g., schools, hospitals, licensed ❑Yes®No day care centers, or group homes) within 1500 feet of the project site? If Yes, i. Identify Facilities: e. Does the project site contain an existing dam? ❑YesPINo If Yes: i. Dimensions of the dam and impoundment: • Dam height: feet • Dam length: feet • Surface area: acres • Volume impounded: gallons OR acre-feet ii. Dam's existing hazard classification: iii. Provide date and summarize results of last inspection: f. Has the project site ever been used as a municipal, commercial or industrial solid waste management facility, ❑Yes®No or does the project site adjoin property which is now, or was at one time, used as a solid waste management facility? If Yes: L Has the facility been formally closed? ❑Yes❑ No • If yes, cite sources/documentation: ii. Describe the location of the project site relative to the boundaries of the solid waste management facility: iii. Describe any development constraints due to the prior solid waste activities: g. Have hazardous wastes been generated, treated and/or disposed of at the site, or does the project site adjoin ❑Yes®No property which is now or was at one time used to commercially treat, store and/or dispose of hazardous waste? If Yes: i. Describe waste(s) handled and waste management activities, including approximate time when activities occurred: h. Potential contamination history. Has there been a reported spill at the proposed project site, or have any ❑Yes® No remedial actions been conducted at or adjacent to the proposed site? If Yes: L Is any portion of the site listed on the NYSDEC Spills Incidents database or Environmental Site ❑ Yes❑ No Remediation database? Check all that apply: ❑ Yes — Spills Incidents database Provide DEC ID number(s): ❑ Yes — Environmental Site Remediation database Provide DEC ID number(s): ❑ Neither database ii. If site has been subject of RCRA corrective activities, describe control measures: iii. Is the project within 2000 feet of any site in the NYSDEC Environmental Site Remediation database? ❑Yes❑No If yes, provide DEC ID number(s): iv. If yes to (i), (ii) or (iii) above, describe current status of site(s): Page 10 of 13 v. Is the project site subject to an institutional control limiting property uses? • If yes, DEC site ID number: • Describe the type of institutional control (e.g., deed restriction or easement): • Describe any use limitations: • Describe any engineering controls: • Will the project affect the institutional or engineering controls in place? • Explain: E.2. Natural Resources On or Near Project Site a. What is the average depth to bedrock on the project site? b. Are there bedrock outcroppings on the project site? If Yes, what proportion of the site is comprised of bedrock outcroppings? c. Predominant soil type(s) present on project site: +/-1.9 feet Langford channery silt +/-40 % Bath and Valois soils +/-40 % Erie channery silt loam +/-20 % d. What is the average depth to the water table on the project site? Average: +/-1.5 feet e. Drainage status of project site soils: 91 Well Drained: +i-40 % of site Moderately Well Drained: +/-40 % of site ® Poorly Drained +/-20 % of site f. Approximate proportion of proposed action site with slopes: ® 0-10%: 100 % of site ❑ 10-15%: % of site ❑ 15% or greater: % of site g. Are there any unique geologic features on the project site? If Yes, describe: h. Surface water features. ❑ Yes❑No ❑ Yes ❑No ❑ Yes ®No ❑ Yesg]No i. Does any portion of the project site contain wetlands or other waterbodies (including streams, rivers, ❑Yes®No ponds or lakes)? H. Do any wetlands or other waterbodies adjoin the project site? ❑Yes❑No If Yes to either i or ii, continue. If No, skip to E.2.i. iii. Are any of the wetlands or waterbodies within or adjoining the project site regulated by any federal, 0 Yes ❑No state or local agency? iv. For each identified regulated wetland and waterbody on the project site, provide the following information: • Streams: Name Classification • Lakes or Ponds: Name Federal Freshwater Pond Classification • Wetlands: Name Approximate Size • Wetland No. (if regulated by DEC) v. Are any of the above water bodies listed in the most recent compilation of NYS water quality -impaired [--]Yes ®No waterbodies? If yes, name of impaired water body/bodies and basis for listing as impaired: i. Is the project site in a designated Floodway? ❑Yes®No j. Is the project site in the 100 -year Floodplain? ❑Yes®No k. Is the project site in the 500 -year Floodplain? ❑Yes®No 1. Is the project site located over, or immediately adjoining, a primary, principal or sole source aquifer? ®Yes❑No If Yes: i. Name of aquifer: Principal Aquifer - New York sandstone aquifer Page 11 of 13 in. Identify the predominant wildlife species that occupy or use the project site: The project site will be fenced off, by some typical rural species such as deer, squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, woodchucks, chipmunks, rodents, foxes, coyote, crow, songbirds, raptors, frogs, and snakes may pass through. n. Does the project site contain a designated significant natural community? ❑Yes[Z]No If Yes: i. Describe the habitat/community (composition, function, and basis for designation): ii. Source(s) of description or evaluation: iii. Extent of community/habitat: • Currently: acres • Following completion of project as proposed: acres • Gain or loss (indicate + or -): acres o. Does project site contain any species of plant or animal that is listed by the federal government or NYS as ❑ Yes®No endangered or threatened, or does it contain any areas identified as habitat for an endangered or threatened species? If Yes: i. Species and listing (endangered or threatened): Northern Long-eared Bat U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) listed the threatened Northern Long-eared Bat (NLEB) as a potential species of concern at the project site on August 23, 1U19. but, the NYSULG Indicated that the I own of Groton does not Contain a contlrmed NLLb-Occupied habitat. See attached UbM6 list and NYSDEC map. p. Does the project site contain any species of plant or animal that is listed by NYS as rare, or as a species of ❑Yes®No special concern? If Yes: L Species and listing: q. Is the project site or adjoining area currently used for hunting, trapping, fishing or shell fishing? ❑YesZNo If yes, give a brief description of how the proposed action may affect that use: No impact to wooded or aquatic habitat is anticipated. Hunting and fishing may occur in the vicinity of the project area. The project will have minimal effect on those activities once construction is complete. E.3. Designated Public Resources On or Near Project Site a. Is the project site, or any portion of it, located in a designated agricultural district certified pursuant to Agriculture and Markets Law, Article 25 -AA, Section 303 and 304? If Yes, provide county plus district name/number: TOMP001 b. Are agricultural lands consisting of highly productive soils present? i. If Yes: acreage(s) on project site? +/-16.5 ii. Source(s) of soil rating(s): USDA Web Soil Survey c. Does the project site contain all or part of, or is it substantially contiguous to, a registered National Natural Landmark? If Yes: i. Nature of the natural landmark: ❑ Biological Community ❑ Geological Feature ii. Provide brief description of landmark, including values behind designation and approximate size/extent: d. Is the project site located in or does it adjoin a state listed Critical Environmental Area? If Yes: i. CEA name: ii. Basis for designation: iii. Designating agency and date: Page 12 of 13 ®Yes ❑No ®Yes ❑No ❑Yes ®No ❑Yes®No e. Does the project site contain, or is it substantially contiguous to, a building, archaeological site, or district ❑ Yes® No which is listed on the National or State Register of Historic Places, or that has been determined by the Commissioner of the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to be eligible for listing on the State Register of Historic Places? If Yes: See attached SHPO No L Nature of historic/archaeological resource: El Archaeological Site ❑Historic Building or District Effect letter. U. Name: iii. Brief description of attributes on which listing is based: f. Is the project site, or any portion of it, located in or adjacent to an area designated as sensitive for [-]Yes ❑No archaeological sites on the NY State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) archaeological site inventory? g. Have additional archaeological or historic site(s) or resources been identified on the project site? ❑ Yes ❑No If Yes: See attached SHPO No Effect letter. i. Describe possible resource(s): ii. Basis for identification: h. Is the project site within fives miles of any officially designated and publicly accessible federal, state, or local ®Yes❑No scenic or aesthetic resource? If Yes: L Identify resource: Summer Hill State Forest, Groton Memorial Park ii. Nature of, or basis for, designation (e.g., established highway overlook, state or local park, state historic trail or scenic byway, etc.): state park, local park iii. Distance between project and resource: +x_2.5 miles. i. Is the project site located within a designated river corridor under the Wild, Scenic and Recreational Rivers ❑ Yes❑ No Program 6 NYCRR 666? If Yes: L Identify the name of the river and its designation: ii. Is the activity consistent with development restrictions contained in 6NYCRR Part 666? ❑Yes❑No F. Additional Information Attach any additional information which may be needed to clarify your project. If you have identified any adverse impacts which could be associated with your proposal, please describe those impacts plus any measures which you propose to avoid or minimize them. G. Verification I certify that the information provided is true to the best of my knowledge. Abundant Solar Power (Groton), LLC 9/16/2019 Applicant/Sponsor Name _ Contact: Richard Lu Date Signature tr Title CEO PRINT FORM I Page 13 of 13 Legend - -- °A Project Site -X j Municipal Boundaries 0 1,000 2,000 Feet 1:24,000 es Co mere \ � � I 2- 1212 1212 w o °• n l or rs' I _* j 4�pi �J em I f { S on `/Town of Groton _ . Village of Groton: i y iE _1 �` �_ •T �IIL'9 COPri0oC8 1 Lu O O� '�• _ Y II f o - �" CD to o) 76 2 O o � a o to N 3 a° Sources: �` Laela GROTON USGS MAP c6 1. USGS Quads: CUGIR dowered b ° 2. Roads: TIGER 2010 Y partnership. SOLAR ARRAY G ROTONUAD 3. Municipal Boundaries: NYS GIS ABUNDANT SOLAR Q � Office 2018 4. Parcel Boundaries: NYS GIS POWER, LLC La Bella Project No: 2190750.01 FIGURE 1 Date: AUGUST 2019 a _ CORTLANO ROAO_ _—_ _— _ _ _ W — R— — N 1 SITE AND UTILITY PLAN scwf J =eo LaBella Powered by partnership 300 State Street, Suite 201 Rochester, NV 14614 585-454-6110 labellapc cora F T e ey rbon �owea ey�tnecpnawre ABUNDANT SOLAR POWER, INC. SUITE 900 2235 SHEPPARD AVENUE E TORONTO, ON M2J 525 704 CORTLAND ROAD TOWN OF GROTON J unerEo er 2190]50.01 SRV RJS � ECISSUED FOR PRELIMINARY PLANS AUGUST 2019 II — — oanwwc rvnME SITE AND UTILITY PLAN C201 r� Services News Government Local Environmental Resource Mapper Search Tc-ols Layers and Lagand ' All Layers * Unique Geological Fea.. res — Watelbody Clasi firationsfor Ri%ers!Streams 1±1 WaterhodyClassifieationsforLakes of ❑ State Regulated Freshwater Wetlands State Regulated'Netland Checkzone ',?: 0 Su ficart Natural Communities ❑ Naturcl Communities NearThs Location R0 U lure Plarts or Animals 0 -her VVlctland Laycrs Reference Layerc_ Tdl Me More... Need APermit? Contact. — Transia-e Base Map: I NYS Aerial I usiegthismep NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION Divisfon of Environmental Permits, Reglan 7 1285 f=isher Avenue. Cortland. NY 13 04 5-1012 P. (607) 753-3095 € F: (607) 753-8532 www.dec.ny.gov September 9, 2019 Alexandra Vitulano La Bella Associates 300 State Street, Suite 201 Rochester, New York 14694 AVitu IanoD-LaBe llaPC.com, RE: NYSDEC Jurisdictional Determination Proposed installation of a solar panel array at 704 Cortland Road Town of Groton, County of Tompkins, State of New York Dear Ms. Vitulano: The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) is in receipt of your August 23, 2019 email requesting a jurisdictional determination for the Abundant Solar Power's proposed 5.0 MW -AC solar array project on 40.2 acres of vacant farmland located at 704 Cortland Road in the Town of Groton. Based on the information you provided in your August 23, 2019 email, it has been determined that no NYSDEC Permits for Protection of Streams, Navigable Waters, Freshwater Wetlands, or Protected Species will be required to perform this project. However, please keep in mind that there are NYS Water Quality Standards that must be maintained at all times during construction of this project and every effort should be made to control any erosion, siltation and pollution to all waterbodies and wetlands. Soil disturbance of one or more acres of land from construction activities must obtain permit coverage under the NYSDEC SPDES General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Construction Activities by submitting a Notice of Intent and developing and implementing a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. For further information see the NYSDEC Stormwater web page at www.dec.nv.ciov/chemical/8468.htmI. You may also contact Julie Melancon with our NYSDEC Division of Water at 315-426-7550. The parcel lies within Agricultural District TOMPQ01. Lands that are under the protection of NYS Agricultural District Law, are administered by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. Farmers interested in adding land or removing land from a locally approved, state certified Agricultural District should start by contacting their county planning representative. Under SEAR, the Lead Agency must take into consideration that a project is in an Ag District, when determining if the project will be a Type I or Unlisted Action. Ewroaic I Departmentof Environmental sran a aroan,un�n Emrlronmental Conservation Alexandra Vitulano, LaBella Associates September 9, 2919 Page 2 of 2 Please note that this letter does not relieve you of the responsibility of obtaining any necessary permits or approvals from other agencies or local municipalities. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at (607) 753-3095, ext. 294 or teresa. n h e Ip sa dec. nv. a o v. Sincerely, /Z Teri Phelps, Environmental Analyst 1 Division of Environmental Permits -Cortland Office teres a. n h e l Qs(aDdec. n v. aov cc: NYSDEC Law Enforcement — Tompkins County DEP Cortland Y 'I",itUnited States Department of the Interior FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE ,A New York Ecological Services Field Office, �R�"—g,'a• 3817 Luker Road Cortland, NY 13045-9385 Phone: (607) 753-9334 Fax: (607) 753-9699 httD://www.fws.izov/northeast/nvfo/es/section7.htm In Reply Refer To: August 23, 2019 Consultation Code: 05EINY00-2019-SLI-3106 Event Code: 05E1NY00-2019-E-09774 Project Name: Groton Solar Array Subject: List of threatened and endangered species that may occur in your proposed project location, and/or may be affected by your proposed project To Whom It May Concern: The enclosed species list identifies threatened, endangered, proposed and candidate species, as well as proposed and final designated critical habitat, that may occur within the boundary of your proposed project and/or may be affected by your proposed project. The species list fulfills the requirements of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) under section 7(c) of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). This list can also be used to determine whether listed species may be present for projects without federal agency involvement. New information based on updated surveys, changes in the abundance and distribution of species, changed habitat conditions, or other factors could change this list. Please feel free to contact us if you need more current information or assistance regarding the potential impacts to federally proposed, listed, and candidate species and federally designated and proposed critical habitat. Please note that under 50 CFR 402.12(e) of the regulations implementing section 7 of the ESA, the accuracy of this species list should be verified after 90 days. This verification can be completed formally or informally as desired. The Service recommends that verification be completed by visiting the ECOS-IPaC site at regular intervals during project planning and implementation for updates to species lists and information. An updated list may be requested through the ECOS-IPaC system by completing the same process used to receive the enclosed list. If listed, proposed, or candidate species were identified as potentially occurring in the project area, coordination with our office is encouraged. Information on the steps involved with assessing potential impacts from projects can be found at: http.// www.fws.izov/northeast/nvfo/es/section7.htm Please be aware that bald and golden eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (16 U.S.C. 668 et seq.), and projects affecting these species may require development of an eagle conservation plan (httD://www.fws.aov/windenerev/ 08/23/2019 Event Code: 05E 1 NY00-2019-E-09774 2 easle_suidance.html). Additionally, wind energy projects should follow the Services wind energy guidelines(http://www.fws.aov/windenerizy/) for minimizing impacts to migratory birds and bats. Guidance for minimizing impacts to migratory birds for projects including communications towers (e.g., cellular, digital television, radio, and emergency broadcast) can be found at: http.// www.fws.Qov/miaratorvbirds/CurrentBirdIssues/Hazards/towers/towers.htm: http:// www.towerkill.com: and httn://www.fws.izov/mi2ratorvbirds/CurrentBirdIssues/Hazards/towers/ comtow.html. We appreciate your concern for threatened and endangered species. The Service encourages Federal agencies to include conservation of threatened and endangered species into their project planning to further the purposes of the ESA. Please include the Consultation Tracking Number in the header of this letter with any request for consultation or correspondence about your project that you submit to our office. Attachment(s): • Official Species List 08/23/2019 Event Code: 05E 1 NY00-2019-E-09774 Official Species List This list is provided pursuant to Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, and fulfills the requirement for Federal agencies to "request of the Secretary of the Interior information whether any species which is listed or proposed to be listed may be present in the area of a proposed action". This species list is provided by: New York Ecological Services Field Office 3817 Luker Road Cortland, NY 13045-9385 (607) 753-9334 08/23/2019 Event Code: 05E1NY00-2019-E-09774 Project Summary Consultation Code: 05EINY00-2019-SLI-3106 Event Code: 05E1NY00-2019-E-09774 Project Name: Groton Solar Array Project Type: DEVELOPMENT Project Description: NA Project Location: Approximate location of the project can be viewed in Google Maps: https: www.google.com/maDs/nlace/42.59421974522138N76.33354982944735W M Counties: Tompkins, NY Morton Co�nem udp N 2 08/23/2019 Event Code: 05E 1 NY00-2019-E-09774 Endangered Species Act Species There is a total of 1 threatened, endangered, or candidate species on this species list. Species on this list should be considered in an effects analysis for your project and could include species that exist in another geographic area. For example, certain fish may appear on the species list because a project could affect downstream species. IPaC does not display listed species or critical habitats under the sole jurisdiction of NOAA Fisheriesl, as USFWS does not have the authority to speak on behalf of NOAA and the Department of Commerce. See the "Critical habitats" section below for those critical habitats that lie wholly or partially within your project area under this office's jurisdiction. Please contact the designated FWS office if you have questions. NOAA Fisheries. also known as the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), is an office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration within the Department of Commerce. Mammals NAME STATUS Northern Long-eared Bat Myotis septentrionalis Threatened No critical habitat has been designated for this species. Species profile: httDs://ecos.fws.eov/ecn/species/9045 Critical habitats THERE ARE NO CRITICAL HABITATS WITHIN YOUR PROJECT AREA UNDER THIS OFFICE'S JURISDICTION. HEwYORK Parks, Recreation, STA 0PPaRTUN1Ty and Historic Preservation ANDREW M. CUOMO ERIK KULLESEID Governor Commissioner August 30, 2019 Ms. Alexandra Vitulano Environmental Planner LaBella Associates DPC 300 State St, Suite 201 Rochester, NY 14614 Re: NYSERDA Groton Solar Array 704 Cortland Road, Groton, NY 19PRO5877 Dear Ms. Vitulano: Thank you for requesting the comments of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP). We have reviewed the project in accordance with the New York State Historic Preservation Act of 1980 (Section 14.09 of the New York Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Law). These comments are those of the OPRHP and relate only to Historic/Cultural resources. They do not include potential environmental impacts to New York State Parkland that may be involved in or near your project. Such impacts must be considered as part of the environmental review of the project pursuant to the State Environmental Quality Review Act (New York Environmental Conservation Law Article 8) and its implementing regulations (6 NYCRR Part 617). Based upon this review, it is the opinion of OPRHP that no properties, including archaeological and/or historic resources, listed in or eligible for the New York State and National Registers of Historic Places will be impacted by this project. If further correspondence is required regarding this project, please be sure to refer to the OPRHP Project Review (PR) number noted above. Sincerely, R. Daniel Mackay Deputy Commissioner for Historic Preservation Division for Historic Preservation Division for Historic Preservation P.O. Box 189, Waterford, New York 12188-0189 • (518) 237-8643 • parks.ny.gov EAF Mapper Summary Report B.i.i [Coastal or Waterfront Area] No B.i.ii [Local Waterfront Revitalization Area] No C.2.b. [Special Planning District] E.1.h [DEC Spills or Remediation Site - Potential Contamination History] E.1.h.i [DEC Spills or Remediation Site - Listed] E.1.h.i [DEC Spills or Remediation Site - Environmental Site Remediation Database] E.1.h.iii [Within 2,000' of DEC Remediation Site] E.2.g [Unique Geologic Features] E.2.h.i [Surface Water Features] E.2.h.ii [Surface Water Features] E.2.h.iii [Surface Water Features] E.2.h.v [Impaired Water Bodies] E.2.i. [Floodway] E.2.]. [100 Year Floodplain] E.2.k. [500 Year Floodplain] E.2.1. [Aquifers] E.2.1. [Aquifer Names] E.2.n. [Natural Communities] Thursday, August 22, 2019 1:52 PM Disclaimer: The EAF Mapper is a screening tool intended to assist project sponsors and reviewing agencies in preparing an environmental assessment form (EAF). Not all questions asked in the EAF are answered by the EAF Mapper. Additional information on any EAF question can be obtained by consulting the EAF Workbooks. Although the EAF Mapper provides the most up-to-date digital data available to DEC, you may also need to contact local or other data sources in order to obtain data not provided by the Mapper. Digital data is not a substitute for agency determinations. ��� M veer aal Toruils4 I. ,ir..r?a.lar '�-. A3krar►p p 9rplk Octan G!ewN#Id 7rwMdence aourcr s�ei, HERE, :943rmirt, �columhuo �Pittshtr¢h G RnV2M**, INCREMENT P,. AC -911. EsriJaPEP, MET 1. ClAnau WaEOQip43 ;bong Kong?, Eari Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF Workbook. Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF Workbook. Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF Workbook. Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF Workbook. No No No Yes Yes - Digital mapping information on local and federal wetlands and waterbodies is known to be incomplete. Refer to EAF Workbook. No Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF Workbook. Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF Workbook. Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF Workbook. Yes Principal Aquifer No Full Environmental Assessment Form - EAF Mapper Summary Report I E.2.o. [Endangered or Threatened Species] No E.2.p. [Rare Plants or Animals] No E.3.a. [Agricultural District] Yes E.3.a. [Agricultural District] TOMP001 E.3.c. [National Natural Landmark] No E.3.d [Critical Environmental Area] No E.3.e. [National or State Register of Historic Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF Places or State Eligible Sites] Workbook. E.3.f. [Archeological Sites] No E.3.i. [Designated River Corridor] No Full Environmental Assessment Form - EAF Mapper Summary Report