american transmission systems, incorporated a …

AMERICAN TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS, INCORPORATED

A FIRSTENERGY COMPANY

CONSTRUCTION NOTICE

Ottawa-West Fremont 138 kV Transmission Line Switch Replacement

OPSB CASE NO.: 20-0135-EL-BNR

August 11, 2020

American Transmission Systems, Incorporated 76 South Main Street

Akron, Ohio 44308

American Transmission Systems, Incorporated Ottawa-West Fremont 138 kV Transmission Line Switch Replacement

CONSTRUCTION NOTICE

Ottawa-West Fremont 138 kV Transmission Line Switch Replacement Project

The following information is being provided in accordance with the procedures in the Ohio

Administrative Code (OAC) Chapter 4906-6 for the application and review of Accelerated

Certificate Applications. Based upon the requirements found in Appendix A to OAC Rule 4906-

1-01, this Project qualifies for submittal to the Ohio Power Siting Board (“Board”) as a

Construction Notice application.

4906-6-05: ACCELERATED APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

4906-6-05: Name Name of Project: Ottawa-West Fremont 138 kV Transmission Line Switch

Replacement Project (“Project”). 4906-6-05 (B)(1): Brief Description of the Project

For this Project ATSI is proposing to replace and relocate two inoperable switches,

requiring work at three separate areas along the Ottawa-West Fremont 138 kV

Transmission Line in Rice Township, Sandusky County, Ohio. This Project will remove

the switch and tap from the Ottawa-West Fremont No. 2 138 kV Transmission Line and

reconfigure the line to operate at its original design. The switch and tap to the Kelsey Hayes

Substation will be placed on the Ottawa-West Fremont No. 1 138 kV Transmission Line.

This will allow the tap connection to Unican Ohio LLC, an industrial customer, to bypass

the inoperable switches and eliminate the need for the tap to cross under 138 kV

transmission lines.

In Work Area 1, ATSI proposes to remove one wood pole switch structure (KH-1)

located on the Ottawa-West Fremont No. 2 138 kV Transmission Line, immediately

adjacent to the existing steel lattice tower structure 19, as well as the associated switch

equipment connected to structure 19. In Work Area 2, ATSI will remove two wood poles

and one switch pole with associated equipment on the east side of existing steel lattice


tower structure 22. The removed switch and two associated structures will be replaced

on the west side of the existing steel lattice tower structure 22. The new configuration on

the west side of structure 22 includes two switch structures, a single tap structure and one

additional angle structure to connect the relocated portion of the transmission line to the

existing alignment.

Finally, the Project includes the correction of the phasing on the Ottawa-West Fremont

No. 1 138 kV Transmission Line. Currently, the Ottawa-West Fremont No. 1 138 kV

Transmission Line has reverse phasing from the Ottawa-West Fremont No. 2 138 kV

Transmission Line. To address this, in Work Area 3 ATSI proposes to replace a wood

pole structure to reverse the phasing into Kelsey Hayes Substation.

The general location of the Project is shown in Exhibit 1, a partial copy of the United

States Geologic Survey, Sandusky County OH, Quad Map. Exhibit 2 is a partial copy of

ESRI aerial imagery. Exhibit 3 and Exhibit 4 show the detailed layout of the proposed

work.

4906-6-05 (B)(1): Letter of Notification Requirement

The Project meets the requirements for a Construction Notice Application because the

Project is within the types of projects defined by Items (1)(a) and (2)(a) of the Application

Requirement Matrix for Electric Power Transmission Lines, Appendix A of OAC Rule

4906-1-01. These items state:

(1) New construction, extension, or relocation of single or multiple circuit electric

power transmission line(s), or upgrading existing transmission or distribution

line(s) for operating at a higher transmission voltage, as follows:

(a) Line(s) not greater than 0.2 miles in length

And,

(2) Adding new circuits on existing structures designed for multiple circuit use,

replacing conductors on existing structures with larger or bundled conductors,


adding structures to an existing transmission line, or replacing structures with a

different type of structure, for a distance of

(a) Two miles or less

The proposed Project is within the requirements of Item (1)(a) as the proposed

reconfiguration will result in approximately 400 feet of relocated transmission line from

the east side of existing structure 22 to west side of existing structure 22 (see Exhibit 4).

The proposed Project is within the requirement of Item (2)(a) as the proposed project

replaces Structure 211 with a different type of structure (see Exhibit 8).

4906-6-05 (B)(2): Need For the Project

Due to age, condition and obsolete equipment, switches 13135 and 13136 are being

replaced. Both are Kearney-KPF switches which were installed in 1970 and have been

in-service for 50 years. The last regular maintenance on these switches occurred in 2009.

In January 2019, the switches were scheduled for normal maintenance. However, ATSI

was unable to open switch 13135 at that time. Additionally, in July 2019 when ATSI

attempted to open the bottom phase of the switch, it arced when being closed. These

switches are therefore inoperable and need to be replaced.

The switch manufacturer is no longer in business and these units are no longer supported,

nor are replacement parts readily available. These switches also do not conform to current

ATSI engineering standards (operating rod insulator type and length, non-unitized

construction, location placement, manual and non-SCADA operation).


The need for the Project and the proposed solution was presented by FirstEnergy at the

March 25, 2019 Subregional Regional Transmission Expansion Plan (SRRTEP)

Committee Western meeting and has been assigned PJM supplemental RTEP number

s2068. The PJM SSRTEP-Western presentation slide is included as Exhibit 13 and includes

additional details of the Project drivers.

4906-6-05 (B)(3): Location of the Project Relative to Existing or Proposed Lines

The location of the Project relative to existing or proposed lines is shown in the ATSI

Transmission Network Map, included as part of the confidential portion of the FirstEnergy

Corp. 2020 Long-Term Forecast Report. This map was submitted to the PUCO in Case

No. 20-657-EL-FOR under Rule 4901:5-5:04 (C)(2)(b) of the Ohio Administrative Code.

The map is incorporated by reference only. This map shows ATSI’s 345 kV and 138 kV

transmission lines and transmission substations including the Ottawa-West Fremont No. 1

& No. 2 138 kV Transmission Lines. The project area is located approximately 7.5 inches

(11” x 17” printed version) from the left edge of the map and 3 inches (11” x 17” printed

version) from the top of the map. The general location of the Project area is shown in

Exhibits 1 and 2. This Project is not included in ATSI’s LTFR filed in 2020.


4906-6-05 (B)(4): Alternatives Considered

Alternatives to the proposed Project included the following:

• No Action – Operation of the system with inoperable switches at these locations

does not provide a way to sectionalize the line to feed the Kelsey Hayes Substation

without forcing an unplanned outage to Unican Ohio LLC, an industrial customer

that operates continuously.

• Alternative Design - The original scope was to replace two 138 kV single circuit

wood pole switch structures. There are two constraints preventing a direct

replacement. First, the location of the existing structures in relation to the feeder

line was not a viable configuration for access or to provide a 120 V service

connection. Second, to alleviate outage time to Unican Ohio, LLC, a transmission

customer that operates continuously, reconfiguring the switches will allow most of

the work to be completed while keeping the tap in service. Typical removal and

replacement of a switch in the same location takes 3 days. However, as proposed,

since new Switch structures 200 and 200A and tap structure 201 will be placed

before removing the old structures, the outage time will be significantly reduced.

Once the outage takes place, structure 211 will be replaced. This construction

schedule will limit outage time to 8 hours compared to 3 days.

4906-6-05 (B)(5): Public Information Program

ATSI’s manager of External Affairs will advise local officials of features and the status of

the proposed Project as necessary. ATSI has also established a project website:

https://www.firstenergycorp.com/about/transmission_projects/ohio.html.

ATSI will maintain the Project website and will continue to work with property owners

concerning the proposed Project.

Finally, during all phases of this Project, ATSI will maintain the transmission projects

hotline at 1-800-589-2837 or via email at: [email protected],

where the public may ask questions or leave comments on the Project for ATSI.

https://www.firstenergycorp.com/about/transmission_projects/ohio.html

mailto:[email protected]


4906-6-05 (B)(6): Construction Schedule

The construction schedule for this Project is expected to begin as early as November 3,

2020 and be completed by November 30, 2020.

4906-6-05 (B)(7): Area Map

Exhibit 1 depicts the general location of the Project. This Exhibit provides a partial copy

of the United States Geological Survey, Sandusky County OH, quadrangle map. Exhibit

2 provides a partial copy of ESRI aerial imagery.

4906-6-05 (B)(8): Property Owner List

The Project will be located within existing maintained right-of-way, except in Work Area

2 where the easements will be amended for the new structures and switches. Table 1

contains a list of property owners affected by the Project.

Table 1: Property Owner List

Parcel Number Property Owner Property Address Easement Status

3 127 000 00 400 Stone of Hetrick, LLC

9859 W Hetrick Rd Oak Harbor, OH 43449

Existing Easement

3 128 000 01 400 Michael A. & Michelle K. Gonya

3700 CR 164 Fremont, OH 43420

Revised Easement Needed

3 128 000 01 203 Carbo Forge, Inc 150 SR 523 Fremont, OH 43420

Need additional easement

3 133 000 00 600 Kingsway Oak Harbor, LLC

4600 SR 19 Fremont, OH 43420

Existing Easement

4906-6-05 (B)(9): TECHNICAL FEATURES OF THE PROJECT

4906-6-05 (B)(9)(a): Operating Characteristics

The transmission line construction will have the following characteristics:

Voltage: 138 kV


Conductors: Proposed: 795 kcmil 26/7 Drake ACSR and 336.4 kcmil 18/1 Merlin

ACSR

Static Wire: 7#10 Alumoweld

Insulators: Porcelain Insulator Assembly

ROW Width: The existing ROW is 100 feet-wide for the existing Ottawa-West

Fremont 138kV Transmission Line. No additional ROW will be

needed for work done in Work Area 1 and Work Area 3.

The ROW for the reconfigured tap line in Work Area 2 (easement

3-242-004) will be supplemented with an additional 10 feet to the

north of State Route 523.

Land Requirements: Easement 3-242-005 will be amended at Work Area 2 to

accommodate the switch structures at the west side of the Ottawa-

West Fremont 138kV Transmission Line.

Structure Types: Exhibit 5: Wood Pole Switch Structure.

Two (2) structures are needed.

Exhibit 6: Wood Pole Three-Way Deadend Structure.

One (1) structure is needed.

Exhibit 7: Wood Pole Deadend Structure.


Exhibit 8: Wood Pole Tangent Structure.


4906-6-05 (B)(9)(b): Electric and Magnetic Fields

The closest occupied residence or institution is approximately 500 feet from the

transmission line centerline. As this distance is greater than 100 feet, Electric and Magnetic

Field (“EMF”) calculations have not been estimated. Per OAC 4906-05(b)(9)(b), the

residential structures are outside of the 100’ radius, therefore no EMF study is required.

4906-6-05 (B)(9)(c): Estimated Cost

The estimated capital cost for the proposed Project is approximately $1,012,700.


4906-6-05 (B)(10): SOCIAL AND ECOLOGICAL IMPACTS

4906-6-05 (B)(10)(a): Land Uses

The Project is located in Rice Township, Sandusky County, Ohio. The land use around the

Project is agricultural, residential and some manufacturing.

4906-6-05 (B)(10)(b): Agricultural Land

Agricultural land does exist within the Project’s disturbance area. A list of all agricultural

land and acreage including agricultural district land is given in Table 2.

Table 2: Agricultural Lands within the Project’s Disturbance Area

Parcel Number Property Owner Acreage Agricultural District

Agricultural District Expiration

3 127 000 00 400 Stone of Hetrick, LLC 117.51 No N/A

3 128 000 01 400 Michael A. & Michelle K. Gonya 39 No N/A

4906-6-05 (B)(10)(c): Archaeological or Cultural Resources

As part of the investigation, a search of Ohio Historic Preservation Office (“OHPO”) online

database was conducted to identify the existence of any significant archeological or cultural

resource sites within 0.5 miles of the Project Area. Based upon the results of the OHPO

online database and shown on Exhibit 9, there are no cultural or archeological resources

within the Project’s area and no impacts are expected.

The OHPO database includes all Ohio listings on the National Register of Historic Places

(“NRHP”), including districts, sites, building, structures, and objects that are significant in

American history, architecture, archeology, engineering, and culture. The results of the

search indicate that there are no listed NRHP sites and no NRHP eligible sites identified

within 0.5 miles of the Project potential disturbance area.


The OHPO database also includes listing of the Ohio Archaeological Inventory (“OAI”),

the Ohio Historic Inventory (“OHI”), previous cultural resource surveys, and the Ohio

Genealogical Society (“OGS”) cemetery inventory. There are no OAI listed archeological

resources. OHI listed structural resources have been previously inventoried within 0.5

miles of the Project area. Additionally, there have not been any previous cultural resource

surveys conducted within 0.5 miles of the Project area. There are no OGS cemeteries

located within 0.5 miles of the Project area.

4906-6-05 (B)(10)(d): Local, State, and Federal Requirements

Table 3 shows the list of government agency requirements and the filing status at the time

of filing.

Table 3. List of Government Agency Requirements to be Secured Prior to

Construction

Agency Permit Requirement Status

Federal Aviation Administration

Notice of Proposed Construction or Alternation Submitted

4906-6-05 (B)(10)(e): Endangered, Threatened, and Rare Species Investigation

Exhibit 3 shows the three work areas for the Project. Work Area 1 which is north of Link

Road and east of Applegate Road (SR 164) (41.45105°, -83.12536°), will be accessible

directly from Applegate Road. Work Area 2 which is north of SR 523 and west of

Applegate Road (SR 164), will be accessible directly from SR 523 (41.44346°, -

83.13000°). Work Area 3 which is south of State Route 523 and West of Oak Harbor Road

(41.44272°, -83.13806°) will be accessed from the parking area located to the east of the

Project Area. The Project area consists of herbaceous vegetation and scrub/shrub wetland

areas. Requests were made to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and Ohio

Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) on December 20, 2019 in order to determine

the potential effects of the proposed Project on listed species. The USFWS response on

January 16, 2020 indicated that the Project area is within range of one (1) state and federally


endangered species and one (1) state and federally threatened species. A copy of USFWS’s

response is included as Exhibit 10. A copy of ODNR’s response is included as Exhibit 11.

The threatened and endangered species listed for Sandusky County, Ohio by the U.S. Fish

and Wildlife Service (USFWS)1 and Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR)2 as

provided on the website of each respective agency are included in Table 4. 1 https://www.fws.gov/midwest/endangered/lists/ohio-cty.html 2 http://wildlife.ohiodnr.gov/portals/wildlife/pdfs/species%20and%20habitats/state-listed%20species/sandusky.pdf

Table 4. Endangered, Threatened, and Rare Species Listed for Sandusky County

Common Name

Species Name Federal Status

State Status Habitat Description

Presence of Potential Habitat affected by Project

Indiana bat Myotis sodalis Endangered Endangered Trees and caves None Identified Northern long-eared bat

Myotis septentrionalis

Threatened Threatened Trees and caves None Identified

Kirtland’s warbler

Dendroica kirtlandii

Recently Delisted

Endangered Breeding habitat: stands of young jack pine. Migratory habitat: shrub thickets and deciduous trees.

Potential migratory habitat.

Piping plover

Charadrius melodus

Endangered Endangered Beaches and shorelines along the Great Lakes.

None Identified

Rufa red knot

Calidris canutus rufa

Threatened N/A Migratory habitat: shorelines and adjacent marshes and mudflats.

None Identified

Eastern massasauga

Sistrurus catenatus

Threatened Endangered Wet areas None Identified

Eastern prairie fringed orchid

Platanthera leucophaea

Threatened Threatened Mesic to wet prairies and meadows

None Identified

Cattle egret Bubulcus ibis N/A Endangered Nesting habitat: large trees or emergent wetlands. Foraging habitat: pastures and fields.

Potential foraging habitat.

Northern harrier

Circus cyaneus N/A Endangered Breeding habitat: large wetlands

Potential foraging habitat.


and grasslands. Foraging habitat: grasslands and fields.

Rayed bean Villosa fabalis Endangered* Endangered Streams with drainage area greater than 10 square miles.

None Identified.

Black-crowned night heron

Nycticorax nycticorax

N/A Threatened Thick vegetation along waterbodies.

None Identified

American eel

Anguilla rostrate N/A Threatened Moderate to large rivers.

None Identified

Greater redhorse

Moxostoma valenciennesi

N/A Threatened Medium to large rivers

None Identified

Pink streak moth

Faronta rubripennis

N/A Threatened Prairies and meadows.

None Identified

Black sandshell

Ligumia recta N/A Threatened Rivers None Identified

Threehorn wartyback

Obliquaria reflexa

N/A Threatened Medium to large rivers.

None Identified

Pondhorn Uniomerus tetralasmus

N/A Threatened Streams with drainage area greater than 10 square miles.

None Identified

* Villosa fabalis not listed by USFWS as occurring in Sandusky County

Although one wetland and one stream are located within the Project Area, both features

will be avoided during construction. Further, no trees are located within the Project Area.

Of the species listed for Sandusky County, potential migratory habitat for the state

endangered Kirtland’s warbler (Dendroica kirtlandii) and potential foraging habitat for the

Cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) and Norther harrier (Circus cyaneus), both state endangered

birds, were identified within the Project Area. Due to the mobility of these species during

migration and foraging, adverse effects on these species as a result of construction activities

is unlikely.

4906-6-05 (B)(10)(f): Areas of Ecological Concern

ATSI hired WSP USA (“WSP”) to conduct a wetland and stream delineation of the Project

area. The investigation focused on the three work areas described in section 4906-6-

05(B)(10)(e). As a result of the investigation, one palustrine scrub/shrub wetland and one

perennial stream were delineated within the Project area. Using the Ohio Rapid

Assessment for Wetlands (v. 5.0), the resulting score was 21.5 which is indicative of a


Category one (i.e. low-quality) wetland. Please see Exhibit 12 for a copy of the wetland

delineation findings letter prepared by WSP.

No disturbance of the PSS wetland will be necessary to complete the Project as access to

Work Area 3 will be from the adjacent parking area to the east of the Project Area.

One perennial stream was also identified within Work Area 3. No construction activity

will occur below the ordinary high-water mark of this stream as access to Work Area 3 will

be from the adjacent parking area to the east of the Project Area.

The Project work limits do not encroach on any regulated flood plains based on a review

of online FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Mapping.

4906-6-05(B)(10)(g): Other Information

Construction and operation of the proposed Project will be in accordance with the

requirements specified in the latest revision of the National Electrical Safety Code as

adopted by the PUCO and will meet all applicable safety standards established by the

Occupational Safety and Health Administration. No other or unusual conditions are

expected that will result in significant environmental, social, health or safety impacts.

4906-6-07: Documentation of Construction Notice Transmittal and Availability for

Public Review

This Construction Notice Application is being provided concurrently with its docketing

with the Board to the following officials in Rice Township, Sandusky County, Ohio.

Sandusky County Commissioner Katy E. Reiter Sandusky County Commissioners 622 Croghan St. Fremont, OH 43420

Commissioner Scott Miller Sandusky County Commissioners 622 Croghan St. Fremont, OH 43420


Mr. Carlos A. Baez, Sr., P.E./P.S. Sandusky County Engineer 2500 West State St. Fremont, OH 43420 Ms. Rachel Wynkoop, Director Sandusky County Planning Commission 2511 Countryside Drive Fremont, OH 43420

Commissioner Russ Zimmerman Sandusky County Commissioners 622 Croghan St. Fremont, OH 43420 Mr. Dave Warner, Chairman Sandusky County Soil & Water 622 Croghan St. Fremont, OH 43420

Rice Township Mr. Mike Kovaleski, Chairman Rice Township Trustee 2864 County Road 170 Fremont, OH 43420 Mr. Tim King, Vice-Chairman Rice Township Trustee 1024 County Road 99 Fremont, OH 43420

Mr. Bill Lamalie Rice Township Trustee 4393 N. State Route 53 Fremont, OH 43420 Mr. Ryan Schiets, Chairman Zoning Commission 3777 Fangboner Rd Fremont, OH 43420

Library Ms. Pam Hoesman, Director Birchard Public Library of Sandusky County 423 Croghan St Fremont, OH 43420

Copies of the transmittal letters to these officials have been included with this application

as proof of compliance under OAC Rule 4906-6-07 (B) to provide the Board with proof of

notice to local officials as required by OAC Rule 4906-6-07 (A)(1) and to libraries per

OAC Rule 4906-6-07 (A)(2).

Information is posted at www.firstenergycorp.com/about/transmission_project/ohio.html

on how to request an electronic or paper copy of this Construction Notice application. The

link to this website is being provided to meet the requirements of OAC Rule 4906-6-07 (B)

and to provide the Board with proof of compliance with the notice requirements in OAC

Rule 4906-6-07 (A)(3).

STR.

STR. 200

LINK ROAD

APPL

EGAT

E R

OAD

OAK

HAR

BOR

RO

AD

STATE ROUTE 523

STAT

E R

OU

TE 1

64

TWR. 19

TWR. 22

OTT

AWA

- WES

T FR

EMO

NT N

O.2

138

KV T

RANS

MIS

SIO

N LI

NE

20

21

22-A

202203204205206207208209210

211

211A

KELSEYHAYES

SUBSTATION

OTT

AWA

- WES

T FR

EMO

NT N

O.1

138

KV T

RANS

MIS

SIO

N LI

NE

WORK AREA 2

WORK AREA 3

SEE EXHIBIT 4

REPLACE STR. 211SEE EXHIBIT 8

WORK AREA 1REMOVE EXISTING SWITCHSTRUCTURE KH-1

KH-1

SANDUSKY COUNTY,OH.

LEGEND

SW STR. 200ASEE EXHIBIT 5

TAP STR. 201SEE EXHIBIT 6

SW STR. 200SEE EXHIBIT 5

TBRSTR. 200

TBRSTR. 201

STR. 202SEE EXHIBIT 7

TOWARDS KELSEYHAYES SUBSTATION

TWR. 22

TOW

ARDS

OTT

AWA

SUBS

TATI

ON

TOW

ARDS

WES

T FR

EMO

NT S

UBST

ATIO

N

SANDUSKY COUNTY,OH.

WORK AREA 2

OTT

AWA

- WES

T FR

EMO

NT N

O.1

138K

V TR

ANSM

ISSI

ON

LINE

OTT

AWA

- WES

T FR

EMO

NT N

O.2

138K

V TR

ANSM

ISSI

ON

LINE

STATE ROUTE 523

CENTERLINEWATER

TRANSMISSION LINE

EXISTING STR.

NEW OR REPLACED

LEGEND

TBR

GUY WIRE

TRANSMISSION TO

TOWER STRUCTURE

STRUCTURE

TO BE REMOVED

OF ROADCENTERLINE OFNEW TRANSMISSIONCENTERLINE OF

BE REMOVED

TO REMAIN

CENTERLINE OF

OSED

LC

OSED

LC

97'-0" ±

12'-0"±

12'-0"±

12'-0"±

A A

(TYP.)

SECTION A-ACONDUCTOR AND SWITCH ATTACHMENT

11'-0" ±

10'-0" ±

10'-0" ±

CONDUCTOR ATTACHMENT

92'-6" ±

GUY WIRE

GUY WIR

E

TOSTR. 200

TOSTR. 202

TOSTR. 200A

TOSTR. 200A

TOSTR. 200

TOSTR. 202

CL

A A

B B

B BSECTION A-A

CONDUCTOR ATTACHMENTSECTION B-B

11'-0" ±

10'-0" ±

10'-0" ±

CONDUCTOR ATTACHMENT

74'-6" ±

GUY WIRE

GUY WIR

E

CL

A A

B B

B B

SECTION A-A

CONDUCTOR ATTACHMENTSECTION B-B

TOSTR. 203

TOSTR. 201

TOSTR. 203

TOSTR. 201

11'-0" ±

8'-0" ±

8'-0" ±

61'-0" ±

Miles0.610.300

Legend

1: 24,000

[Datum]

This map is a user generated static output from an Internet mapping site and is for generalThis map is a user generated static output from an Internet mapping site and is for general reference only. Data layers that appear on this map may or may not be accurate, current, or otherwise reliable. THIS MAP IS NOT TO BE USED FOR NAVIGATION.

Copyright/Disclaimer

Datum:

WGS_1984_Web_Mercator_Auxiliary_Sphere

Projection:

NR Listings

Listed

National Historic Landmark

Delisted

NR Determinations of Eligibility

Archaeological Sites

Historic Structures

Historic Bridges

Historic Tax Credit Projects

OGS Cemeteries

Confident

Not Confident

Dams

UTM Zone Split

NR Boundaries

OAI Site Boundaries

Phase1

Phase2

Phase3

Historic Previously Surveyed Areas

Highways

Counties

NPS Parks

Wayne National Forest

Exhibit 9

Ohio, FW3 <[email protected]>

Ottawa-West Freemont 138 kV Transmission Line Switch Replacement, SanduskyCo.1 message

Ohio, FW3 <[email protected]> Thu, Jan 16, 2020 at 3:03 PMTo: [email protected]

TAILS# 03E15000-2020-TA-0607

Dear Mr. Renner,

We have received your recent correspondence regarding potential impacts to federally listed species in the vicinity of the abovereferenced project. There are no federal wilderness areas, wildlife refuges or designated critical habitat within the vicinity of theproject area. We recommend that proposed activities minimize water quality impacts, including fill in streams and wetlands. Bestmanagement practices should be utilized to minimize erosion and sedimentation. FEDERALLY LISTED, PROPOSED, AND CANDIDATE SPECIES COMMENTS: Due to the project type, size, location, and theproposed implementation of seasonal tree cutting (clearing of trees ≥3 inches diameter at breast height between October 1 and March31) to avoid impacts to the federally listed endangered Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis) and threatened northern long-eared bat (Myotisseptentrionalis), we do not anticipate adverse effects to any federally endangered, threatened, proposed or candidate species. Shouldthe project design change, or during the term of this action, additional information on listed or proposed species or their critical habitatbecome available, or if new information reveals effects of the action that were not previously considered, consultation with the U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) should be initiated to assess any potential impacts. If there is a federal nexus for the project (e.g., federal funding provided, federal permits required to construct), no tree clearing shouldoccur on any portion of the project area until consultation under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), between the Serviceand the federal action agency, is completed. We recommend that the federal action agency submit a determination of effects to thisoffice, relative to the Indiana bat and northern long-eared bat, for our review and concurrence. These comments have been prepared under the authority of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16U.S.C. 661 et seq.), ESA, and are consistent with the intent of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and the Service'sMitigation Policy. This letter provides technical assistance only and does not serve as a completed section 7 consultation document. We recommend that the project be coordinated with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources due to the potential for the project toaffect state listed species and/or state lands. Contact John Kessler, Environmental Services Administrator, at (614) 265-6621 or [email protected]. If you have questions, or if we can be of further assistance in this matter, please contact our office at (614) 416-8993 [email protected].

Sincerely,

Patrice M. AshfieldField Office Supervisor

https://mail.google.com/mail/?view=cm&fs=1&tf=1&[email protected]

https://mail.google.com/mail/?view=cm&fs=1&tf=1&[email protected]

Office of Real Estate

John Kessler, Chief 2045 Morse Road – Bldg. E-2

Columbus, OH 43229 Phone: (614) 265-6621

Fax: (614) 267-4764

March 12, 2020

Phil Renner WSP USA 312 Elm Street, Suite 2500 Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 Re: 20-068; Ottawa-West Fremont 138 kV Transmission Line Switch Replacement Project Project: The proposed project invovles the replacement of 3 aging switches along the Ottawa-West Fremont 138 kV transmission line. Location: The proposed project is located in Rice Township, Sandusky County, Ohio. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) has completed a review of the above referenced project. These comments were generated by an inter-disciplinary review within the Department. These comments have been prepared under the authority of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.), the National Environmental Policy Act, the Coastal Zone Management Act, Ohio Revised Code and other applicable laws and regulations. These comments are also based on ODNR’s experience as the state natural resource management agency and do not supersede or replace the regulatory authority of any local, state or federal agency nor relieve the applicant of the obligation to comply with any local, state or federal laws or regulations.

Natural Heritage Database: The Natural Heritage Database has no records at or within a one-mile radius of the project area. A review of the Ohio Natural Heritage Database indicates there are no other records of state endangered or threatened plants or animals within the project area. There are also no records of state potentially threatened plants, special interest or species of concern animals, or any federally listed species. In addition, we are unaware of any unique ecological sites, geologic features, animal assemblages, scenic rivers, state wildlife areas, state nature preserves, state or national parks, state or national forests, national wildlife refuges, or other protected natural areas within the project area. The review was performed on the project area you specified in your request as well as an additional one-mile radius. Records searched date from 1980. Please note that Ohio has not been completely surveyed and we rely on receiving information from many sources. Therefore, a lack of records for any particular area is not a statement that rare species or unique features are absent from that area. Although all types of plant communities have been surveyed, we only maintain records on the highest quality areas.

Fish and Wildlife: The Division of Wildlife (DOW) has the following comments. The DOW recommends that impacts to streams, wetlands and other water resources be avoided and minimized to the fullest extent possible, and that best management practices be utilized to minimize erosion and sedimentation. The project is within the range of the Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis), a state endangered and federally endangered species. The following species of trees have relatively high value as potential Indiana bat roost trees to include: shagbark hickory (Carya ovata), shellbark hickory (Carya laciniosa), bitternut hickory (Carya cordiformis), black ash (Fraxinus nigra), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), white ash (Fraxinus americana), shingle oak (Quercus imbricaria), northern red oak (Quercus rubra), slippery elm (Ulmus rubra), American elm (Ulmus americana), eastern cottonwood (Populus deltoides), silver maple (Acer saccharinum), sassafras (Sassafras albidum), post oak (Quercus stellata), and white oak (Quercus alba). Indiana bat roost trees consists of trees that include dead and dying trees with exfoliating bark, crevices, or cavities in upland areas or riparian corridors and living trees with exfoliating bark, cavities, or hollow areas formed from broken branches or tops. However, Indiana bats are also dependent on the forest structure surrounding roost trees. If suitable habitat occurs within the project area, the DOW recommends trees be conserved. If suitable habitat occurs within the project area and trees must be cut, the DOW recommends cutting occur between October 1 and March 31. If suitable trees must be cut during the summer months, the DOW recommends a net survey be conducted between June 1 and August 15, prior to any cutting. Net surveys should incorporate either nine net nights per square 0.5 kilometer of project area, or four net nights per kilometer for linear projects. If no tree removal is proposed, this project is not likely to impact this species. The project is within the range of the threehorn wartyback (Obliquaria reflexa), a state threatened mussel, the pondhorn (Uniomerus tetralasmus), a state threatened mussel, and the black sandshell (Ligumia recta), a state threatened mussel. Due to the location, and that there is no in-water work proposed in a perennial stream of sufficient size, this project is not likely to impact these species. The project is within the range of the lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens), a state endangered fish, the western banded killifish (Fundulus diaphanous menona), a state endangered species, the American eel (Anguilla rostrata), a state threatened fish, and the greater redhorse (Moxostoma valenciennesi), a state threatened fish. The DOW recommends no in-water work in perennial streams from April 15 to June 30 to reduce impacts to indigenous aquatic species and their habitat. If no in-water work is proposed in a perennial stream, this project is not likely to impact these species. The project is within the range of the Blanding's turtle (Emydoidea blandingii), a state threatened species. This species inhabits marshes, ponds, lakes, streams, wet meadows, and swampy forests. Although essentially aquatic, the Blanding’s turtle will travel over land as it moves from one wetland to the next. Due to the location, the type of habitat at the project site and within the vicinity of the project area, and the type of work proposed, this project is not likely to impact this species. The project is within the range of the eastern massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus), a state endangered and federally threatened snake species. The eastern massasauga uses a range of habitats including wet prairies, fens, and other wetlands, as well as adjacent drier upland habitat.

Due to the location, the type of habitat at the project site and within the vicinity of the project area, and the type of work proposed, this project is not likely to impact this species. The project is within the range of the American bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus), a state endangered bird. Nesting bitterns prefer large undisturbed wetlands that have scattered small pools amongst dense vegetation. They occasionally occupy bogs, large wet meadows, and dense shrubby swamps. If this type of habitat will be impacted, construction should be avoided in this habitat during the species’ nesting period of May 1 to July 31. If this type of habitat will not be impacted, this project is not likely to impact this species. The project is within the range of the black tern (Chlidonias niger), a state endangered bird. The black tern prefers large, undisturbed inland marshes with fairly dense vegetation and pockets of open water. They nest in various kinds of marsh vegetation but cattail marshes are generally favored. Nests are built on top of muskrat houses or on top of floating vegetation. If this type of habitat will be impacted, construction should be avoided in this habitat from April 1 to June 30 to reduce impacts to this species. If this type of habitat will not be impacted, this project is not likely to impact this species. The project is within the range of the king rail (Rallus elegans), a state endangered bird. Nests for this species are deep bowls constructed out of grass and usually hidden very well in marsh vegetation. If this type of habitat will be impacted, construction should be avoided in this habitat during the species’ nesting period of May 1 to August 1. If this type of habitat will not be impacted, this project is not likely to impact this species. The project is within the range of the cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis), a state endangered bird. Cattle egrets are not strictly wetland birds. They often forage in dry pastures and fields. Egrets nest in colonies and will build a nest out of sticks and other materials wherever it can be supported. If this type of habitat will be impacted, construction should be avoided in this habitat during the species’ nesting period of May 15 to August 15. If no wetland habitat will be impacted, this project is not likely to impact this species. The project is within the range of the upland sandpiper (Bartramia longicauda), a state endangered bird. Nesting upland sandpipers utilize dry grasslands including native grasslands, seeded grasslands, grazed and ungrazed pasture, hayfields, and grasslands established through the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). If this type of habitat will be impacted, construction should be avoided in this habitat during the species’ nesting period of April 15 to July 31. If this type of habitat will not be impacted, this project is not likely to impact this species. The project is within the range of the Northern harrier (Circus cyaneus), a state endangered bird. This is a common migrant and winter species. Nesters are much rarer, although they occasionally breed in large marshes and grasslands. Harriers often nest in loose colonies. The female builds a nest out of sticks on the ground, often on top of a mound. Harriers hunt over grasslands. If this type of habitat will be impacted, construction should be avoided in this habitat during the species’ nesting period of May 15 to August 1. If this habitat will not be impacted, the project is not likely to impact this species. Due to the potential of impacts to federally listed species, as well as to state listed species, we recommend that this project be coordinated with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Water Resources: The Division of Water Resources has the following comment.

The local floodplain administrator should be contacted concerning the possible need for any floodplain permits or approvals for this project. Your local floodplain administrator contact information can be found at the website below. http://water.ohiodnr.gov/portals/soilwater/pdf/floodplain/Floodplain%20Manager%20Community%20Contact%20List_8_16.pdf ODNR appreciates the opportunity to provide these comments. Please contact Sarah Tebbe, Environmental Specialist, at (614) 265-6397 or [email protected] if you have questions about these comments or need additional information. Mike Pettegrew Environmental Services Administrator (Acting)

http://water.ohiodnr.gov/portals/soilwater/pdf/floodplain/Floodplain%20Manager%20Community%20Contact%20List_8_16.pdf

http://water.ohiodnr.gov/portals/soilwater/pdf/floodplain/Floodplain%20Manager%20Community%20Contact%20List_8_16.pdf

mailto:[email protected]

WSP USA Suite 2500 312 Elm Street Cincinnati, OH 45202 +1 513-639-2100

wsp.com

December 6, 2019

Mr. Auggie Ruggiero FirstEnergy Corporation 341 White Pond Drive Akron, OH 44320

Subject: Ottawa-West Fremont 138 kV Transmission Line Switch Replacement Project; Wetland Delineation Findings; Sandusky County, Ohio

Dear Mr. Ruggiero:

Louis Berger, U.S., Inc. – A WSP Company (WSP) was tasked to identify the jurisdictional Waters of the U.S. (WoUS) boundaries for wetlands and streams that may be located within three Project Survey Areas (PSA) associated with the Ottawa-West Fremont 138 kV Transmission Line Switch Replacement Project (Project). These three PSAs can be found on Figure 1 and include:

0.95-acres located south of Darr Road in Rice Township, Sandusky County. The approximatecoordinates of this location are 41.44272°, -83.13806°.

0.70-acres located north of Darr Road in Rice Township, Sandusky County. The approximatecoordinates of this location are 41.44346°, -83.13000°.

1.88-acres located east of the intersection of Link Road and Applegate Road in Rice Township,Sandusky County. The approximate coordinates of this location are 41.45105°, -83.12536°.

A wetland survey was completed on November 21, 2019 in accordance with the procedures outlined in the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual1 and the Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Midwest Region (Version2.0) (Regional Supplement)2. One wetland and one stream were identified within the PSA.

1 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Environmental Laboratory. 1987. Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual, Technical Report Y-87-1, U.S. Army Engineer Waterway Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Mississippi.

2 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 2010. Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Midwest Region (Version 2.0).

Exhibit 10

METHODOLOGY Prior to conducting the field survey, WSP staff reviewed published federal and state documents and files for indications of likely wetland conditions. These resources included: National Agriculture Imagery Program (NAIP) aerial photography, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) maps3, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) National Hydrography Dataset (NHD)4, and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) soil data for Allen County, Ohio5. Figure 2 shows the results of the review conducted by WSP prior to performing the field surveys.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) define wetlands as areas inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions (33 CFR, Part 328.3). The USACE regulates development in jurisdictional wetlands pursuant to Section 404 of the CWA (33 CFR, Parts 320-330). A jurisdictional determination is the process of identifying and locating jurisdictional Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS), including wetlands. Identification and delineation of jurisdictional wetlands is based on three parameters:

1. Hydrophytic vegetation - the dominant vegetation consists of species capable of growing in water or on substrate that is at least periodically deficient in oxygen as a result of the presence of water. Plants rated obligate (OBL), facultative wet (FACW), and facultative (FAC) are considered in the hydrophytic vegetation tally; whereas plants rated facultative up (FACU), and upland (UPL) are not considered in the hydrophytic vegetation tally6;

2. Hydric soils - soils that are saturated, flooded or ponded long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions that favor the growth of hydrophytic vegetation; and,

3. Wetland hydrology - the area is inundated permanently or periodically, or the soil is saturated to the surface for sufficient duration during the growing season to support hydrophytic vegetation.

Data points are placed at various locations where landform, vegetative, or hydrologic characteristics indicate the potential for the occurrence of wetlands. For each data point, soil samples are reviewed in both wetland and upland habitats to help determine the wetland and upland boundaries. Soil samples

3 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2012. National Wetlands Inventory Map Bluffton, Ohio quadrangle. 4 U.S. Geological Survey. 2018. National Hydrography Dataset. Accessed in 2018 at http://nhd.usgs.gov/data.html. 5 Natural Resource Conservation Service, 2018. Web Soil Survey of Sandusky County, Ohio.

http://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/App/WebSoilSurvey.aspx. 6 OBL: A plant that almost always occurs in wetlands, but rarely in uplands;

FACW: A plant that usually occurs in wetlands, but occasionally occurs in uplands; FAC: A plant that commonly occurs in both wetland and uplands; FACU: A plant that usually occurs in uplands, but occasionally occurs in wetlands; and UPL: A plant that almost always occurs in uplands, but rarely occurs in wetlands.

extend to a depth of approximately 18 inches where possible, and the color/texture of each visible soil horizon is described and recorded.

Wetlands, streams, and other waters are classified according to the Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States, commonly referred to as the Cowardin Classification System7. The waters identified within the PSA were classified as palustrine systems, which include non-tidal wetlands dominated by trees, shrubs, persistent emergents, mosses or lichens, and tidal wetlands where ocean-derived salinities are below 0.5 ppt (parts per thousand). Palustrine systems are further classified by their dominant vegetation communities. These include:

1. Forested Wetland (PFO) – the forested wetland class is characterized by woody vegetation that at least 3 inches diameter at breast height (DBH) or more and 6 meters (20 feet) tall or taller.

2. Scrub-Shrub Wetland (PSS) – the scrub-shrub wetland class includes areas dominated by woody vegetation less than 3 inches DBH and less than 6 meters (20 feet) tall.

3. Emergent Wetland (PEM) – the emergent wetland class is characterized by erect, rooted, herbaceous hydrophytes, excluding mosses and lichens.

4. Unconsolidated Bottom (PUB) – the unconsolidated bottom class typically refers to ponds and are characterized by the lack of large stable surfaces for plant and animal attachment. PUB includes wetland and deepwater habitats with at least 25% cover of particles smaller than stones, and a vegetative cover less than 30%.

Delineated wetlands were further evaluated using the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA) Ohio Rapid Assessment Method for Wetlands v. 5.0 (ORAM). The ORAM was developed to determine the relative ecological quality and level of disturbance of a particular wetland in order to meet requirements under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. Assessment of wetlands with the ORAM was completed according to the methods detailed in Ohio Rapid Assessment Method for Wetlands, Manual for Using Version 5.08. Assessment with the ORAM results in a score that describes the wetland using a range from 0 (low quality and high disturbance) to 100 (high quality and low disturbance). Wetlands scored from 0 to 29.9 are grouped into "Category 1" (low quality), 34.9 to 59.9 are "Category 2" (moderate quality), and 64.9 to 100 are "Category 3" (high quality). Transitional zones exist between “Categories 1 and 2” from 30 to 34.9 and between “Categories 2 and 3” from 60 to 64.9. However, according to the OEPA, if the wetland score falls into the transitional range, it must be given the higher Category unless scientific data can prove it should be in a lower Category (Mack, 2001).

7 Cowardin, L.M., V. Carter, F.C. Golet, and E.T. LaRoe. 1979. Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States. Office of

Biological Services, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington, D.C.

8 Mack, John J. 2001. Ohio Rapid Assessment Method for Wetlands, Manual for Using Version 5.0. Ohio EPA Technical Bulletin Wetland/2001-1-1. Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, Division of Surface Water, 401 Wetland Ecology Unit, Columbus, Ohio.

FINDINGS

One wetland area and one stream were identified within the PSA as shown on Figure 3. Wetland OWF-1 is a PSS wetland area located between Darr Road and Stream OWF-1. Wetland OWF-1 measured 0.034 acres within the PSA. This wetland area drains and is adjacent to delineated Stream OWF-1. Vegetation within the wetland was dominated by redosier dogwood (Cornus sericea). When assessed with the ORAM, Wetland OWF-1 achieved a score of 21.5, indicating that this is a Category 1, low quality wetland area.

Stream OWF-1 is a perennial stream with a measuring a length of 127 linear feet within the PSA. The average width of the stream within the PSA is 10.7 feet. Substrates within the PSA are dominated by silt and clay. Stream OWF-1 flows eastward out of the PSA and continues north to drain into Muddy Creek

Figure 3 provides the location of the delineated stream and wetland as well as wetland and upland data points. Appendix A contains Wetland Determination Data Forms for wetland and upland data points, the ORAM form for Wetland OWF-1, and stream data form for Stream OWF-1. Appendix B contains representative photos of delineated water resources and the PSA. If you have any questions regarding the survey, you may contact Philip Renner at [email protected] (937.570.7691) or Matt Thomayer at [email protected] (513.375.4910).

Sincerely,

Philip J. Renner Matthew D. Thomayer Environmental Scientist Senior Environmental Scientist/Planner WSP USA WSP USA

Attachments: Figures

Figure 1 – Project Location Map Figure 2 – Environmental Base Map Figure 3 – Wetland Delineation Map

Appendix A – Data Sheets Appendix B – Photographs

FIGURES

41.442724,-83.138064

41.443460,-83.129996

41.451052,-83.125359

OTTAWA COUNTY

SANDUSKYCOUNTY

RIC

E T

WP

WA

SH

ING

TON

TW

P

RICE TWPSALEM TWPWASHINGTON TWP

HARRIS TWP

BA

Y T

WP

SA

LE

M T

WP

HA

RR

IS T

WP

SA

LE

M T

WP

0 0.5 10.25MilesERTY

OTTAWA-WEST FREMONT138 KV TRANSMISSION LINE

Sources:Background (ESRI)

December 6, 2019

Survey Limits

Project Centerline

County Boundary

Township BoundaryCoordinate System:

Ohio State Plane NorthNAD 1983

Figure 1: Project Overview Map

SANDUSKYCOUNTY

PEM1C

PFO1C

PFO1C

PSS1/EM1C

PSS1/EM1C

PUBGx

PUBGx

PUBGx

R4SBC

R5UBFx

R5UBFx

R5UBFx

R5UBHR5UBH

R5UBH

DeA

FuA

FuA

FuA

FuA

FuA

FuA

FuA

FuA

LuBLuB

Sh

Sh

Sh

Sh

To

0 500 1,000250FeetERTY

OTTAWA-WEST FREMONT138 KV TRANSMISSION LINE

Sources:Background (ESRI)

December 6, 2019

Survey Limits

Project Centerline

NHD Flowline

NWI Polygon

Soil Unit BoundaryCoordinate System:

Ohio State Plane NorthNAD 1983

Figure 2: Environmental Base Map

Upland OWF-1

Wetland OWF-1

Upland OWF-2

Stream OWF-1

0 200 400100FeetERTY

OTTAWA-WEST FREMONT138 KV TRANSMISSION LINEPage 1 of 3

Sources:Imagery (ESRI 2019)

December 6, 2019

Survey Limits

Project Centerline

!( Upland Data Point

!( Wetland Data Point

Delineated Stream

Delineated Wetland

Coordinate System:Ohio State Plane North

NAD 1983

Figure 3: Wetland Delineation Map




December 6, 2019

Survey Limits

Project Centerline



Delineated Stream

Delineated Wetland


NAD 1983


APPENDIX A

Data Sheets

Field Methods for Evaluating Primary Headwater Streams in Ohio Version 4.0 Ohio EPA, Division of Surface Water October 2018

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Ottawa-West Fremont 138 kV Tline

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20191121

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M.Thomayer

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Field ID: s-mdt-11/21/2019-01

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Report ID: Stream OWF-1

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Channelized perennial stream with culverts for business entrance.

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X

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X

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X

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60

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40

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3

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0

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3

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6

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X

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(inches)

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25

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8

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(feet)

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10

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25

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X

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56

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PHW Stream Type: Modified Small Drainage Warmwater Stream

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X

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X

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X

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X

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X

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perennial stream

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X

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X

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Perennial

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X

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X

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Sandusky

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Y

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Unknown

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Unknown

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N

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100%

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N

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N

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N

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N

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N

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Line

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existing ROW

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warehouse entrance

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North

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Arrow

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Field ID: s-mdt-11/21/2019-01

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Report ID: Stream OWF-1

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Line

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Rice Township

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Ellipse

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culverts

Report ID: Wetland OWF-1Field ID: w-mdt-11/21/2019-01

Project/Site:

Applicant/Owner: State:

Investigator(s):

Lat:

Soil Map Unit Name: NWI classification:

x

Are Vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology Yes x

Are Vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS – Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.

X No

X No X

X No

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x Yes X

WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM – Northcentral and Northeast Region

Ottawa-West Fremont 138 kV Transmission Line City/County: Sandusky Sampling Date: 20191121

Landform (hillside, terrace, etc.): terrace Local relief (concave, convex, none): concave Slope %:

FirstEnergy OH Sampling Point: WET OWF-1

M.Thomayer; WSP Section, Township, Range:

WGS 84

To, Toledo silty clay, 0 to 1 percent slopes None

Are climatic / hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year? Yes No (If no, explain in Remarks.)

Subregion (LRR or MLRA): LRR L, MLRA 99 41.443037 Long: -83.13818 Datum:

significantly disturbed? Are “Normal Circumstances” present? No

naturally problematic? (If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)

Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes

Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes If yes, optional Wetland Site ID:

Is the Sampled Area

Hydric Soil Present? Yes within a Wetland? Yes No

Remarks: (Explain alternative procedures here or in a separate report.)PSS Wetland data point in depressional area between roadside ditch to the north and dredged dirt from perennial stream to the south.

HYDROLOGY

Wetland Hydrology Indicators: Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)

Primary Indicators (minimum of one is required; check all that apply) Surface Soil Cracks (B6)

Surface Water (A1)

Water Marks (B1) Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1) Crayfish Burrows (C8)

Sediment Deposits (B2) Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3) Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)

Water-Stained Leaves (B9) Drainage Patterns (B10)

High Water Table (A2) Aquatic Fauna (B13) Moss Trim Lines (B16)

Saturation (A3) Marl Deposits (B15) Dry-Season Water Table (C2)

Iron Deposits (B5) Thin Muck Surface (C7) Shallow Aquitard (D3)

Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7) Other (Explain in Remarks) Microtopographic Relief (D4)

Drift Deposits (B3) Presence of Reduced Iron (C4) Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1)

Algal Mat or Crust (B4) Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6) Geomorphic Position (D2)

Water Table Present? Yes No Depth (inches):

Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8) FAC-Neutral Test (D5)

Field Observations:

Surface Water Present? Yes No Depth (inches):

Remarks: Based on observed signs, water can get to about 6" deep during periods of inundation.

No

(includes capillary fringe)

Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:

Saturation Present? Yes No Depth (inches): 8 Wetland Hydrology Present?

US Army Corps of Engineers Northcentral and Northeast Region – Version 2.0

Sampling Point:

(Plot size:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6. (A/B)

7.

Sapling/Shrub Stratum (Plot size: x 1 =

1. x 2 =

2. x 3 =

3. x 4 =

4. x 5 =

5. Column Totals: (B)

6.

7.

Herb Stratum (Plot size: X

1. X

2. 4 - Morphological Adaptations1 (Provide supporting

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

(Plot size:

1.

2.

3.

4. X

VEGETATION – Use scientific names of plants. WET OWF-1

Tree Stratum )Absolute % Cover

Dominant Species?

Indicator Status Dominance Test worksheet:

Number of Dominant Species That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC: 1 (A)

Total Number of Dominant Species Across All Strata: 1 (B)

Percent of Dominant Species That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC: 100.0%

Cornus sericea 100 Yes FACW

Prevalence Index worksheet:

FAC species 0 0

0 0

Total % Cover of:

200

UPL species 0 0

FACU species 0

=Total Cover

200

Prevalence Index = B/A = 2.00

100 (A)

) OBL species

Multiply by:

FACW species 100

0

100 =Total Cover 1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation

) 2 - Dominance Test is >50%

Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:

3 - Prevalence Index is ≤3.01

Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation1 (Explain)

1Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must be present, unless disturbed or problematic.

data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)

Sapling/shrub – Woody plants less than 3 in. DBH and greater than or equal to 3.28 ft (1 m) tall.

Definitions of Vegetation Strata:

Tree – Woody plants 3 in. (7.6 cm) or more in diameter at breast height (DBH), regardless of height.

Woody Vine Stratum )Woody vines – All woody vines greater than 3.28 ft in height.

Herb – All herbaceous (non-woody) plants, regardless of size, and woody plants less than 3.28 ft tall.=Total Cover

Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes No

Remarks: (Include photo numbers here or on a separate sheet.)Appear vegetation get periodically sprayed.

=Total Cover


Sampling Point:

?

x

X

SOIL WET OWF-1

Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)

Depth Matrix Redox Features

(inches) Color (moist) % Color (moist) % Type1

Loamy/Clayey clay

Loc2 Texture Remarks

Hydric Soil Indicators: Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils3:

Histosol (A1) Polyvalue Below Surface (S8) (LRR R, 2 cm Muck (A10) (LRR K, L, MLRA 149B)

Histic Epipedon (A2) MLRA 149B) Coast Prairie Redox (A16) (LRR K, L, R)

Black Histic (A3) Thin Dark Surface (S9) (LRR R, MLRA 149B) 5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat (S3) (LRR K, L, R)

Hydrogen Sulfide (A4) High Chroma Sands (S11) (LRR K, L) Polyvalue Below Surface (S8) (LRR K, L)

1Type: C=Concentration, D=Depletion, RM=Reduced Matrix, MS=Masked Sand Grains. 2Location: PL=Pore Lining, M=Matrix.

Thick Dark Surface (A12) Depleted Matrix (F3) Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19) (MLRA 149B)

Sandy Mucky Mineral (S1) Redox Dark Surface (F6) Mesic Spodic (TA6) (MLRA 144A, 145, 149B)

Stratified Layers (A5) Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (LRR K, L) Thin Dark Surface (S9) (LRR K, L)

Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11) Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2) Iron-Manganese Masses (F12) (LRR K, L, R)

0-14 10YR 4/1 95 10YR 5/6 5 C M

Stripped Matrix (S6) Marl (F10) (LRR K, L) Other (Explain in Remarks)

Dark Surface (S7)

3Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and wetland hydrology must be present, unless disturbed or problematic.

Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4) Depleted Dark Surface (F7) Red Parent Material (F21)

Sandy Redox (S5) Redox Depressions (F8) Very Shallow Dark Surface (F22)

Yes No

Remarks:This data form is revised from Northcentral and Northeast Regional Supplement Version 2.0 to include the NRCS Field Indicators of Hydric Soils, Version 7.0, 2015 Errata. (http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/nrcs142p2_051293.docx)

Restrictive Layer (if observed):

Type:

Depth (inches): Hydric Soil Present?


Report ID: Upland OWF-1Field ID: upl-mdt-11/21/2019-01

Project/Site:


Investigator(s):

Lat:


x




No X

No X X

No X

x

x

x Yes X



Landform (hillside, terrace, etc.): terrace Local relief (concave, convex, none): none Slope %:

FirstEnergy OH Sampling Point: UPL OWF-1


WGS 84








Is the Sampled Area


Remarks: (Explain alternative procedures here or in a separate report.)Upland data point in old field/ROW

HYDROLOGY



Surface Water (A1)












Field Observations:


Remarks:

No



Saturation Present? Yes No Depth (inches): Wetland Hydrology Present?


Sampling Point:

(Plot size:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6. (A/B)

7.


1. x 2 =

2. x 3 =

3. x 4 =

4. x 5 =


6.

7.

Herb Stratum (Plot size:

1.


3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

(Plot size:

1.

2.

3.

4. X

VEGETATION – Use scientific names of plants. UPL OWF-1


Dominant Species?


Number of Dominant Species That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC: 2 (A)

Total Number of Dominant Species Across All Strata: 4 (B)


Elaeagnus umbellata 15 Yes UPL


FAC species 90 270

0 0

Total % Cover of:

0

UPL species 45 225

FACU species 0

=Total Cover

495


135 (A)

) OBL species

Multiply by:

FACW species 0

0

15 =Total Cover 1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation



Daucus carota 30 Yes UPL 3 - Prevalence Index is ≤3.01

Solidago sp. 50 Yes FAC



Poa sp. 40 Yes FAC data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)





Herb – All herbaceous (non-woody) plants, regardless of size, and woody plants less than 3.28 ft tall.120 =Total Cover


Remarks: (Include photo numbers here or on a separate sheet.)periodically mowed.

=Total Cover


Sampling Point:

X

SOIL UPL OWF-1




Loamy/Clayey clay






Hydrogen Sulfide (A4) High Chroma Sands (S11) (LRR K, L) Polyvalue Below Surface (S8) (LRR K, L)






0-12 10YR 4/1 99 10YR 5/6 1 C M


Dark Surface (S7)




Yes No



Type:



Report ID: Upland OWF-2Field ID: upl-mdt-11/21/2019-02

Project/Site:


Investigator(s):

Lat:


x




X No

No X X

No X

x

x

x Yes X

Remarks:

No



Saturation Present? Yes No Depth (inches): Wetland Hydrology Present?



Field Observations:






Remarks: (Explain alternative procedures here or in a separate report.)Upland data point for adjacent wetland. Upland point is between wetland and roadside ditch.

HYDROLOGY



Surface Water (A1)






Is the Sampled Area






WGS 84






Landform (hillside, terrace, etc.): terrace Local relief (concave, convex, none): none Slope %:

FirstEnergy OH Sampling Point: UPL OWF-2



Sampling Point:

(Plot size:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6. (A/B)

7.


1. x 2 =

2. x 3 =

3. x 4 =

4. x 5 =


6.

7.

Herb Stratum (Plot size: X

1.


3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

(Plot size:

1.

2.

3.

4. X

Remarks: (Include photo numbers here or on a separate sheet.)periodically mowed.

=Total Cover


Herb – All herbaceous (non-woody) plants, regardless of size, and woody plants less than 3.28 ft tall.125 =Total Cover





FACU



Poa sp. 100 Yes FAC data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)

=Total Cover 1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation



Trifolium repens 15 No FACU 3 - Prevalence Index is ≤3.01

Taraxacum officinale 10 No

=Total Cover

400


125 (A)

) OBL species

Multiply by:

FACW species 0

100

UPL species 0 0

FACU species 25


FAC species 100 300

0 0

Total % Cover of:

0

1 (B)


1 (A)

Total Number of Dominant Species Across All Strata:

VEGETATION – Use scientific names of plants. UPL OWF-2


Dominant Species?


Number of Dominant Species That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:


Sampling Point:

XYes No



Type:



Dark Surface (S7)




Polyvalue Below Surface (S8) (LRR K, L)






0-12 10YR 3/2 100





Hydrogen Sulfide (A4) High Chroma Sands (S11) (LRR K, L)

Loamy/Clayey clay loam


SOIL UPL OWF-2





7

ORAM v. 5.0 Field Form Quantitative Rating

Site: Rater(s): Date:

Metric 1. Wetland Area (size).

max 6 pts. subtotal Select one size class and assign score.>50 acres (>20.2ha) (6 pts)25 to <50 acres (10.1 to <20.2ha) (5 pts)10 to <25 acres (4 to <10.1ha) (4 pts)3 to <10 acres (1.2 to <4ha) (3 pts)0.3 to <3 acres (0.12 to <1.2ha) (2pts)0.1 to <0.3 acres (0.04 to <0.12ha) (1 pt)<0.1 acres (0.04ha) (0 pts)

Metric 2. Upland buffers and surrounding land use.

max 14 pts. subtotal 2a. Calculate average buffer width. Select only one and assign score. Do not double check.WIDE. Buffers average 50m (164ft) or more around wetland perimeter (7)MEDIUM. Buffers average 25m to <50m (82 to <164ft) around wetland perimeter (4)NARROW. Buffers average 10m to <25m (32ft to <82ft) around wetland perimeter (1)VERY NARROW. Buffers average <10m (<32ft) around wetland perimeter (0)

2b. Intensity of surrounding land use. Select one or double check and average.VERY LOW. 2nd growth or older forest, prairie, savannah, wildlife area, etc. (7)LOW. Old field (>10 years), shrub land, young second growth forest. (5)MODERATELY HIGH. Residential, fenced pasture, park, conservation tillage, new fallow field. (3)HIGH. Urban, industrial, open pasture, row cropping, mining, construction. (1)

Metric 3. Hydrology.

max 30 pts. subtotal 3a. Sources of Water. Score all that apply. 3b. Connectivity. Score all that apply.High pH groundwater (5) 100 year floodplain (1)Other groundwater (3) Between stream/lake and other human use (1)Precipitation (1) Part of wetland/upland (e.g. forest), complex (1)Seasonal/Intermittent surface water (3) Part of riparian or upland corridor (1)Perennial surface water (lake or stream) (5) 3d. Duration inundation/saturation. Score one or dbl check.

3c. Maximum water depth. Select only one and assign score. Semi- to permanently inundated/saturated (4)>0.7 (27.6in) (3) Regularly inundated/saturated (3)0.4 to 0.7m (15.7 to 27.6in) (2) Seasonally inundated (2)<0.4m (<15.7in) (1) Seasonally saturated in upper 30cm (12in) (1)

3e. Modifications to natural hydrologic regime. Score one or double check and average.

None or none apparent (12) Check all disturbances observedRecovered (7) ditch point source (nonstormwater)Recovering (3) tile filling/gradingRecent or no recovery (1) dike road bed/RR track

weir dredgingstormwater input other_____________________

Metric 4. Habitat Alteration and Development.

max 20 pts. subtotal 4a. Substrate disturbance. Score one or double check and average.None or none apparent (4)Recovered (3)Recovering (2)Recent or no recovery (1)

4b. Habitat development. Select only one and assign score.Excellent (7)Very good (6)Good (5)Moderately good (4)Fair (3)Poor to fair (2)Poor (1)

4c. Habitat alteration. Score one or double check and average.

None or none apparent (9) Check all disturbances observedRecovered (6) mowing shrub/sapling removalRecovering (3) grazing herbaceous/aquatic bed removalRecent or no recovery (1) clearcutting sedimentation

selective cutting dredgingwoody debris removal farmingtoxic pollutants nutrient enrichment

subtotal this page

last revised 1 February 2001 jjm

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M.Thomayer; WSP

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21 November 2019

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Field ID: w-mdt-11/21/2019-01

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Report ID: Wetland OWF-1

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0

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0

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1

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1

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11.5

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7

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8

ORAM v. 5.0 Field Form Quantitative Rating

Site: Rater(s): Date:

subtotal first page

Metric 5. Special Wetlands.

max 10 pts. subtotal Check all that apply and score as indicated.Bog (10)Fen (10)Old growth forest (10)Mature forested wetland (5)Lake Erie coastal/tributary wetland-unrestricted hydrology (10)Lake Erie coastal/tributary wetland-restricted hydrology (5)Lake Plain Sand Prairies (Oak Openings) (10)Relict Wet Prairies (10)Known occurrence state/federal threatened or endangered species (10)Significant migratory songbird/water fowl habitat or usage (10)Category 1 Wetland. See Question 1 Qualitative Rating (-10)

Metric 6. Plant communities, interspersion, microtopography.

max 20 pts. subtotal 6a. Wetland Vegetation Communities. Vegetation Community Cover ScaleScore all present using 0 to 3 scale. 0 Absent or comprises <0.1ha (0.2471 acres) contiguous area

Aquatic bed 1 Present and either comprises small part of wetland'sEmergent vegetation and is of moderate quality, or comprises a Shrub significant part but is of low qualityForest 2 Present and either comprises significant part of wetland's Mudflats vegetation and is of moderate quality or comprises a small Open water part and is of high qualityOther__________________ 3 Present and comprises significant part, or more, of wetland's

6b. horizontal (plan view) Interspersion. vegetation and is of high qualitySelect only one.

High (5) Narrative Description of Vegetation QualityModerately high(4) low Low spp diversity and/or predominance of nonnative orModerate (3) disturbance tolerant native speciesModerately low (2) mod Native spp are dominant component of the vegetation,Low (1) although nonnative and/or disturbance tolerant native sppNone (0) can also be present, and species diversity moderate to

6c. Coverage of invasive plants. Refer moderately high, but generally w/o presence of rareto Table 1 ORAM long form for list. Add threatened or endangered spp

or deduct points for coverage high A predominance of native species, with nonnative sppExtensive >75% cover (-5) and/or disturbance tolerant native spp absent or virtuallyModerate 25-75% cover (-3) absent, and high spp diversity and often, but not always,Sparse 5-25% cover (-1) the presence of rare, threatened, or endangered sppNearly absent <5% cover (0)Absent (1) Mudflat and Open Water Class Quality

6d. Microtopography. 0 Absent <0.1ha (0.247 acres)Score all present using 0 to 3 scale. 1 Low 0.1 to <1ha (0.247 to 2.47 acres)

Vegetated hummucks/tussucks 2 Moderate 1 to <4ha (2.47 to 9.88 acres)Coarse woody debris >15cm (6in) 3 High 4ha (9.88 acres) or moreStanding dead >25cm (10in) dbhAmphibian breeding pools Microtopography Cover Scale

0 Absent1 Present very small amounts or if more common

of marginal quality

2 Present in moderate amounts, but not of highest quality or in small amounts of highest quality

3 Present in moderate or greater amounts and of highest quality

End of Quantitative Rating. Complete Categorization Worksheets.

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M.Thomayer; WSP

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Report ID: Wetland OWF-1

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21 November 2019

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Field ID: w-mdt-11/21/2019-01

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Category 1 Wetland

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APPENDIX B

Photographs

Project Title:

OTTAWA-WEST FREMONT 138 KV TRANSMISSION LINE

PH

OT

OG

RA

PH

1

Stream OWF-1 (Perennial) facing upstream (west) on November 21, 2019.

PH

OT

OG

RA

PH

2

Stream OWF-1 (Perennial) facing downstream (east) on November 21, 2019.

Project Title:

OTTAWA-WEST FREMONT 138 KV TRANSMISSION LINE

PH

OT

OG

RA

PH

3

Wetland OWF-1 (PEM) facing southeast on November 21, 2019.

PH

OT

OG

RA

PH

4

Wetland OWF-1 (PEM) facing west on November 21, 2019.

9

Need Number: ATSI-2019-054

Process Stage: Submission of Supplemental Project for Inclusion in the Local Plan – 03/18/2020

Previously Presented: Need – 03/25/2019

Solution – 05/20/2019

Supplemental Project Driver(s):

Equipment Material, Condition, Performance and Risk

Operational Flexibility and Efficiency

Infrastructure Resilience

Specific Assumption Reference(s)

Global Considerations System reliability and performance

Substation / Line equipment limits

Problem Statement

Ottawa-West Fremont #2 138 kV Equipment and Tap Connection

The existing KPF switches A-13135 and A-13136 are obsolete and no longer supported by the manufacturer. The existing customer tap connection (tapped between switch A-13135 and switch A-13136) on the Ottawa-West Fremont #2 138 kV line requires a 270 degree turn and crosses under both the Ottawa-West Fremont #1 and Ottawa-West Fremont #2 138 kV lines which creates operational maintenance constraints.

ATSI Transmission Zone M-3 ProcessOttawa-West Fremont #2 138 kV Switch Upgrade

SRRTEP Committee Western – FirstEnergy Local Plan

10

Need Number: ATSI-2019-054

Process Stage: Submission of Supplemental Project for Inclusion in the Local Plan – 03/18/2020

Previously Presented: Need – 03/25/2019

Solution – 05/20/2019

Potential Solution:

Replace switches A-13135P and A-13136 and install SCADA. Transfer customer tap connection and new switches A-13135P and A-13136 onto the Ottawa-West Fremont #1 138 kV line from the existing Ottawa-West Fremont #2 138 kV line to eliminate the 270 degree turn which crosses under both the Ottawa-West Fremont #1 and Ottawa-West Fremont #2 138 kV lines creating operational maintenance constraints.

Estimated Project Cost $0.7M

Alternatives Considered:

Maintain existing condition with an elevated risk of failure and continued operational maintenance constraints.

Projected In-Service: 11/06/2020

Status: Conceptual

Supplemental Project ID: s2068

PJM SRRTEP – Western ATSI Supplemental 05/20/2019

Legend

500 kV

345 kV

138 kV

69 kV

34.5 kV

23 kV

New

Ottawa

CustomerSubstation

West Fremont

ATSI Transmission Zone M-3 ProcessOttawa-West Fremont #2 138 kV Switch Upgrade

Ottawa-West Fremont #2 138 kV Line

Ottawa-West Fremont #1 138 kV Line

SRRTEP Committee Western – FirstEnergy Local Plan

american transmission systems, incorporated a …

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