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Environmental Review Document Addendum
Prepared in Conjunction By:
Corona l Deve lopment Serv ices LLC Tr iad Engineer ing , Inc.
Mason Dixon Solar Center Washington County, Maryland
Applicant:
Mason Dixon Solar Center , LLC 321 East Ma in St ree t, Sui te 300 Char lo ttesv i l le, V irg in ia 22902
January 10, 2017
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Figures
Figure 1 – Regional Location Map
Figure 2 – Project Vicinity
Figure 3 – USGS 7.5-Minute Topographic Map
Figure 4 – Aerial View of the Project Site
Figure 5 – FEMA Mapped 100 Year Floodplain
Figure 6 – NWI Mapped Wetlands
Figure 7 – DNR Mapped Wetlands
Figure 8 – Project Interconnection Layout
Appendices
Appendix A Routine Wetland/Waterway Delineation Study for Array and Interconnection
Appendix B DNR Wildlife and Heritage Service Correspondence for Interconnection
Appendix C PJM and FE Studies
List of Common Abbreviations and Acronyms
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AAI All Appropriate Inquires AC Alternating Current AOI Area of Interest ADC Alexandria Drafting Company Applicant Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC ASTM American Standard for Testing & Materials BER Business Environmental Risk BMP Best Management Practice BZA Board of Zoning Appeals CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation, and Liability Act CORPS U.S. Army Corps of Engineers COMAR Code of Maryland Regulations CPCN Certificate of Public Convenience and
Necessity CREC Controlled Recognized Environmental
Condition CRM Cultural Resources Management CVTs Constant-Voltage Transformers CWA Clean Water Act dB Decibel dBA A-weighted decibel DC Direct Current DNR Maryland Dept. of Natural Resources ECM Washington Co. Engineering & Construction
Management EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ESA Phase I Environmental Site Assessment ESD Environmental Sensitive Design FCA Forest Conservation Act FCO Forest Conservation Ordinance FE Potomac Edison-FirstEnergy FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency FERC Federal Energy Regulatory Commission FIRM Flood Insurance Rate Map FOIA Freedom of Information Act FWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service GHI Global Horizontal Irradiance HREC Historical Recognized Environmental
Condition HSG Hydrologic Soil Group HUC Hydrologic Unit Code JD Jurisdictional Determination JPA Joint Permit Application kV Kilovolt kW Kilowatt kWh Kilowatt Hour kWp Kilowatt Peak LLC Limited Liability Company m Meter (distance) MD State of Maryland MDE Maryland Department of the Environment MHT Maryland Historical Trust
MSHA Maryland State Highway Administration MDSPGP MD State Programmatic General Permit MW Megawatt MWh Megawatt Hour NEC National Electric Code NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NOI Notice of Intent NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service NREL National Renewable Energy Laboratory NRHP National Register of Historic Places NRI Natural Resource Inventory NS Norfolk Southern NSRDB National Solar Radiation Database NWI National Wetlands Inventory PennDOT Pennsylvania Dept. of Transportation Pf Palustrine Farmed PFO Palustrine Forested PI Planned Industrial PJM PJM Interconnection, LLC p/o Part of POW Palustrine Open Water PPRP DNR’s Power Plant Research Program Project Mason Dixon Solar Center PSC Maryland Public Service Commission psf Pounds per Square Foot PUC Public Utility Companies PV Photovoltaic (i.e., solar panel) REC Recognized Environmental Condition RFQ Request for Qualifications RGGI Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative RPS Renewable Portfolio Standards SCADA Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition SEGS Solar Energy Generation System SHPO State Historic Preservation Office SHWS State Hazardous Waste Site Site Portions of the 2003 Mason Dixon, LLC and
the Lowell and Luella Eby Properties SREC Solar Renewable Energy Certificates SWM Storm Water Management TRC Technical Review Committee TDY Typical Direct Normal Insolation Years TMY Typical Meteorological Year UNT Unnamed Tributary U.S. The United States of America USDA U.S. Department of Agriculture USGS U.S. Geological Survey V Volt VOCs Volatile Organic Compounds WCHD Washington Co. Health Department WGS World Geodetic System WMA MDE Water Management Administration
Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity Environmental Review Document Addendum
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SECTION I – ADDENDUM OVERVIEW The purpose of this addendum to Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC’s (the Applicant) Environmental Review Document (ERD) is to modify the Mason Dixon Solar Center’s (the Project) scope of construction to include an underground 34.5kV generation tie line and breaker located on an adjacent property. All other Project characteristics submitted by the Applicant in the original ERD, dated September 14, 2016, remain valid and uncharged with the exception of this one modification. This work was previously to be completed by FirstEnergy (FE) in existing FE right-of-ways; however, additional interconnection study work determined that it was more feasible for this work to be completed under the Project’s scope.
The Project, as proposed by the Applicant, will now be comprised of two components located on two privately-owned properties; a solar PV array portion of the Project (Array) that will be located on land (Tax Map 10, Parcel 68) owned by 2003 Mason Dixon, LLC (Mason Dixon Property) and an underground generation tie line and breaker portion of the Project (Interconnection) that will be located on land (Tax Map 10, Parcel 142) owned by Lowell & Luella Eby (Eby Property). The Applicant has long-term lease and easement options with the Landowners for the use of the Properties for the Project.
The construction of the Interconnection portion of the Project will have little effect on the landscape and current use of the Eby property. Construction of the underground 34.5kV generation tie line on the Eby Property will require only a temporary disturbance with no impervious surfaces. Upon completion and stabilization, the Ebys will be able to continue to utilize the affected area for agricultural purposes. The breaker facilities will occupy a minimal land area (approximately 75 feet by 75 feet), and will likely require an asphalt entrance apron, a gravel pad, and a ten-foot high perimeter fence around the electrical equipment and wooden utility poles. Screening in the form of a landscape buffer will be installed around the perimeter of the breaker facilities.
As mentioned in Section VI.A.3 of the original ERD, the Applicant initially examined the Eby Property as part of the Project, but the Eby Property was removed prior to application. Accordingly some of the environmental due diligence documents included in the original ERD were comprehensive of the Eby property, but it was stated that references to the Eby Property should be ignored. However, the Eby Property is now being re-introduced as part of the Project and is necessary for interconnection. This addendum includes additional supporting documentation for the Interconnection portion of the Project that was not included with the original ERD.
The updated Interconnection portion of the Project is represented as part of the Site in the attached figures. The Interconnection portion of the Project is expected to affect less than 5 acres of land once implemented; however, the study area was comprised of approximately 30 acres. The Project in total, including the Array and Interconnection portions, will affect approximately 145 – 155 acres of land (Site).
The overall Site is located south of Pennsylvania Route 163 (Mason Dixon Road) and east of Maryland Route 63 (Greencastle Pike) in Washington County, Maryland (see Figures 1 & 2). Franklin County, Pennsylvania adjoins a portion of the Site to the north. The Properties are addressed as 17939 Mason Dixon Road (Mason Dixon Property) and 14611 Greencastle Pike (Eby Property) in Hagerstown, Maryland 21740. The approximate center of the Site is located at approximately 39°42'57.13"N Latitude and 77°45'22.08"W Longitude (WGS-84). The Alexandria Drafting Company (ADC) Washington County, Maryland Street Map Book, page and grid coordinate for the Site are 9 and K-5 & H-4, respectively.
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The Site is located in a rural area, but is in close proximity to urbanized development to the east of the Site. The Site is bordered to the north by Pennsylvania Route 163 (Mason Dixon Road), undeveloped agricultural land, and residences. The Site is bordered to the south by undeveloped agricultural land and residences. The Site is bordered to the east by residences and undeveloped agricultural land. The Site is bordered to the west by Greencastle Pike with undeveloped, agricultural land, residences, and a natural gas compressor station located beyond. The local surface topography and land features in the vicinity of the Site are more clearly illustrated on Figures 3 & 4.
The Site is segregated by a Norfolk Southern (NS) railway and a Utility Occupancy License will be required to cross the railway with the 34.5kV generation tie line. The railway crossing may be overhead or underground, but in any case the 34.5kV generation tie line will run underground from the western side of the NS railway to the breaker location near Greencastle Pike. The Site is also segregated by Daley Road and a Utility Permit and Utility Installation Bond will be required from the Washington County Division of Engineering & Construction Management to construct the underground 34.5kV generation tie line within the County right-of-way.
A new entrance is anticipated for breaker maintenance from Greencastle Pike, which is a State highway, at the northwestern corner of the Eby Property. Accordingly, an access permit will be required from the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) for access to the breaker. This will be in addition to the Highway Occupancy Permit from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) that is needed to access to the Array.
The Eby Property is accessible from Daley Road and Greencastle Pike and is traversed by a gravel farm lane that extends between these roadways. The Eby Property is a dairy farm operation. It contains a residential farm complex made up of a residential dwelling and multiple farm structures in the western portion of the property, and an additional barn and storage building located in the southeastern portion of the property. Lowell & Luella Eby and their family occupy and manage this property. These structures are not within the Project limits, i.e., the Site, and will be unaffected by the Project.
The Eby Property is not located within any special planning areas as designated by Washington County such as the Upper Beaver Creek Basin or the watershed boundaries of the Edgemont or Smithsburg Reservoirs. The Eby Property is not located within the Antietam Park or the Antietam Battlefield Overlay. The Eby Property is not located within 1,000 feet of the Appalachian Trail.
The Eby Property (Tax Map 10, Parcel 142) is zoned Agricultural (Rural) District. The Applicant applied to the Washington County Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) and was granted a special exception for the Project under Docket No. AP2015-041 on January 6, 2016. Through further correspondence by the Applicant with Washington County, it was confirmed that the special exception applies to both the Array portion of the Project as well as the Interconnection portion of the Project.
The Eby Property is currently utilized for agricultural purposes and consists primarily of level to rolling agricultural fields and pasture. With the exception of a gravel farm lane, the Interconnection portion of the Site is devoid of any structures or improvements. There are no significant trees, tree cover, or forest cover on the Interconnection portion of the Site as defined by Maryland Natural Resources Section 5-1601 and the Washington County Forest Conservation Ordinance (FCO) Article 2. Only one sparse tree line is located along the eastern side of the NS railway on the Mason Dixon Property and the Applicant will seek to minimize any impacts to trees as a result of the Interconnection.
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The Interconnection portion of the Site, like the majority of the Array portion, is located in the Upper Potomac River Tributary Basin and is within the Conococheague Creek Watershed. The Interconnection portion of the Site, similar to the Array, also contains jurisdictional waters of the United States and waters of the State of Maryland, as one and the same, in the form of a channelized unnamed tributary (UNT) to Toms Run. This UNT to Toms Run consist of a non-relatively permanent waterway (non-RPW) that only sporadically conveys flow during the wet season and/or significant precipitation events as a result of sinkholes and karst topography. There is an existing pipe culvert crossing on the Eby Property where the gravel farm lane crosses the UNT to Toms Run. The jurisdictional waterways were identified at the overall Site by Triad Engineering, Inc. and verified by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) during a Site meeting on June 15, 2016. No jurisdictional wetlands occur at the Site. A Report of Routine Wetland/Waterway Delineation Study for the Array and Interconnection is included as Appendix A.
According to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) No. 240070 0080A, effective May 1, 1978, there is no FEMA mapped 100-year floodplain within the Property (see Figure 5). However, the Applicant is aware that the MDE regulates the 100-year water surface elevation of every jurisdictional waterway regardless of whether there is FEMA mapped 100-year floodplain present. On this basis, the UNT to Toms Run at the Site has a regulated 100-year water surface elevation.
With respect to the UNT to Toms Run and its associated 100-year water surface elevation, one perpendicular utility crossing is proposed for the Interconnection portion of the Project, which will require authorization from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps). As indicated in the original ERD, a Nontidal Wetlands & Waterway Permit will be required from the MDE for utility and road crossings of UNTs to Toms Run for the Project. The applicant will submit a Joint Federal/State Application for the Alteration of any Floodplain, Waterway, Tidal or Nontidal Wetland in Maryland to the MDE Water Management Administration Regulatory Services Coordination Office to obtain the required authorizations as part of the development review process. For Category A activities, the MDE will typically issue their Nontidal Wetlands and Waterway Permit in conjunction with the Maryland State Programmatic General Permit (currently MDSPGP-5) authorization on behalf of the Corps.
Aside from the UNT to Toms Run, there are no know sensitive or critical habitat areas in relation to the Interconnection portion of the Project. The DNR – Wildlife & Heritage Division performed and Environmental Review for the Interconnection portion of the Project and issued a letter, dated May 12, 2016, which indicates that there are no official State or Federal records for listed plant or animals species. Correspondence from the DNR – Wildlife & Heritage Division for the Interconnection portion of the Project is included as Appendix B.
The modified interconnection configuration does not represent a material change to FE or PJM for the Project. The Project will still connect via a direct line tap to the 34.5 kV Halfway – Milnor circuit and the results of all interconnection studies performed to date continue to be valid. The only modifications required to study documents are to reflect that the interconnection facilities scope of work will now be completed by the Project. The System Impact Study was completed in September 2016, and the Facilities Study is currently underway, expected to be complete by July 2017. The latest System Impact Study is attached as Appendix C.
The Interconnection portion of the Project will entail new construction. No demolition or renovations of existing structures is required. Anticipated ground disturbances will be minimal and mostly temporary. The underground generation tie line will be open-cut and backfilled for compaction (except where crossing railroads or roadways) to depths as required by the National Electric Safety Code (NESC), National Electric Code (NEC), and any other applicable codes for this type of construction. Where heavy vehicular traffic is expected, the underground generation tie line will be encased in concrete
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or similar method of protection. Minimal cuts and/or fills may be required to install the breaker and access road; however, the total disturbance is expected to be less than 0.5 acres. There are no operation and maintenance facilities and no water or sewer requirements for the Interconnection portion of the Project. Overall, the Interconnection portion of the Project will be subject to the same or similar design and permitting process as the Array portion of the Project and they will be combined under one development review process.
In addition to a CPCN, the Project will require coverage under the MDE General National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) stormwater permit for construction activities over one acre, authorization from the MDE/Corps for utility and roadway stream crossings, a Highway Occupancy Permit from PennDOT, an Access Permit from the MSHA, and a Utility Occupancy License from NS. The Project will also require local grading, building, electrical, and utility permits from Washington County, Maryland.
SECTION II - STATEMENT OF NEED AND PURPOSE There are no changes to this section as a result of the proposed modification.
SECTION III - APPLICANT INFORMATION There are no changes to this section as a result of the proposed modification.
SECTION IV- STATE AND LOCAL PERMITS AND APPROVALS With the exception of what was previously discussed in Section I of this addendum and/or is discussed below, State and Local Permits and Approvals remain largely unchanged.
Interconnection Interconnection studies are largely complete, with the final Facilities Study expected in July of 2017. The new scope of work involves construction of the majority of the interconnection facilities by the Project, including the underground 34.5kV generation tie line and breaker per FE protection requirements. FE will construct air-break switches and one to two spans of overhead line from the point of interconnection on Greencastle Pike to the Project breaker location. FE has estimated that the work will take an estimated 12 months to complete. The Applicant expects to sign the Interconnection and Construction Service Agreements with FE and PJM in Q3 2017. Maryland State Highway Administration – Access Permit A new entrance is anticipated for breaker maintenance from Greencastle Pike, which is a State highway, at the northwestern corner of the Eby Property. Accordingly, an access permit will be required from the Maryland State Highway Administration (MSHA) for access to the breaker. The MSHA issues several types of permits for access and various construction activities or other work within the State road right-of-way. Access permit requirements may include access concept plans, traffic studies, detailed engineering plans, utility relocation plans, right-of-way dedications, conveyances, etc. The Applicant expects to address this requirement in conjunction with the local site plan review process, expected Q2/Q3 2017.
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Norfolk Southern - Utility Occupancy License The Properties are segregated by a NS railway and a Utility Occupancy License will be required to cross the railway with the electrical transmission line. NS has retained engineering service provider AECOM to receive the utility applications, review the plans, and handle the license agreements. To initiate the process the Applicant must fully complete an Application for Pipe or Wire Occupancy. The completed application and a non-refundable application and processing fee are required for handling. Upon receipt of the application and fee, AECOM will review the package for approval. AECOM will send the applicant an email confirming receipt of the package and the assigned NS Activity number for tracking purposes. If the application is complete and satisfactory, a utility license agreement will be drafted and forwarded to the applicant for signature approximately 4 weeks after receipt of the application. If additional information or revised engineering plans are required to develop a satisfactory proposal, an email requesting revisions will be sent to the applicant approximately 2-3 weeks after receipt of the application. After return of the partially executed agreement from the applicant, a fully executed agreement will be returned within approximately 2 weeks which will provide NS construction coordination contact information. The Applicant expects to submit an Application for Pipe or Wire Occupancy to AECOM during Q1 2017. Washington County – Utility Permit The Site is segregated by Daley Road. A Utility Permit and a Utility Installation Bond will be required from the Washington County Division of Engineering & Construction Management. The Applicant will address this as part of the local site plan review process, expected Q2/Q3 2017. A revised Summary of Permits/Approvals Table is presented below.
Table 1 - Matrix of State/Local Permits and Approvals
Agency/Authority Permits/Approvals Timing
Maryland Public Service Commission Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity 2Q2017
PJM Interconnection, LLC Interconnection and Construction Agreements 3Q2017
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers MDSPGP (Category A) 3Q2017
Maryland Department of the Environment NPDES General Permit for Construction Activity 3Q2017
Maryland Department of the Environment Nontidal Wetlands & Waterways Permit 3Q2017
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Highway Occupancy Permit 3Q2017
Maryland State Highway Administration Access Permit 3Q2017
Washington County Division of ECM Plan Review ESD Stormwater Concept Plan and Site Plan 3Q2017
Washington County Division of ECM Permitting Utility, Grading, Building, and Electrical Permits 3Q2017
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SECTION V- COMAR 20.79.03.01 DESCRIPTION OF GENERATING STATION With the exception of what was previously discussed in Section I of this addendum and/or is discussed below, the description of the generating station remains largely unchanged.
There are additional soil types and properties at the Site (Array & Interconnection). According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Custom Soil Resource Report for Washington County, Maryland, the soils with the Site are primarily Hagerstown, Lindside, Melvin, and Swampond silt loams. Approximately 80% of the Site is comprised of soils in the Hydrologic Soil Group (HSG) B and 20% of HSG B/D, C, and D. There are soils listed as hydric, Prime Farmland, and Farmland of Statewide Importance identified at the Site as detailed in the following Table 2. A USDA NRCS Custom Soil Resource Report for the Site is included in the Wetland/Waterway Delineation Study Report attached as Appendix B.
Table 2 – NRCS Soil Survey Summary
Soil % of Site
Composition Landform % Slope
Depth Inches
Drainage Class
Parent Material
HSG
HaA 2 Hagerstown silt loam
19 Hagerstown and similar soils: 85% Minor components: 15%
Hills 0 to 3 43 - 98 Well drained
Clayey residuum weathered from limestone
B
HaB 2 Hagerstown silt loam
47 Hagerstown and similar soils: 85% Minor components: 15%
Hills 3 to 8 43 - 98 Well drained
Clayey residuum weathered from limestone
B
HaC 3 Hagerstown silt loam
3 Hagerstown and similar soils: 85% Minor components: 15%
Hills 8 to 15
43 - 98 Well drained
Clayey residuum weathered from limestone
B
HbB 3 Hagerstown silty clay loam, very rocky
12 Hagerstown and similar soils: 85% Minor components: 15%
None Listed 3 to 8 60 -99 Well-drained
Clayey residuum weathered from limestone
B
HcB Hagerstown-Rock outcrop complex
2 Hagerstown and similar soils: 70% Rock outcrop: 15% Minor components: 15%
None Listed 3 to 8 60 -99 Well-drained
Clayey residuum weathered from limestone
B
Ln 2
Lindside silt loam
1 Lindside and similar soils: 85% Minor components: 15%
Floodplains 0 to 3 >80 Moderately well drained
Loamy alluvium derived from limestone-sandstone-shale
C
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Table 2 – NRCS Soil Survey Summary
Me 1
Melvin silt loam
4 Melvin and similar soils: 85% Minor components: 15%
Floodplains 0 to 3 >80 Poorly drained
Loamy alluvium derived from limestone-sandstone-shale
B/D
SpA 2
Swam pond silt loam
4 Swanpond and similar soils: 85% Minor components: 15%
Not Listed 0 to 3 >80 Moderately well drained
Clayey residuum weathered from limestone
D
SsA 2
Swam pond silt loam
10 Swanpond and similar soils: 60% Funkstown and similar soils: 35% Minor components: 5%
Not Listed 0 to 3 >80 Moderately well drained
Clayey residuum weathered from limestone
D
1 Indicates Hydric Soil Type 2 Indicates Prime Farmland Soil Type 3 Indicates Farmland of Statewide Importance
SECTION VI - COMAR 20.79.03.02 ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION With the exception of what was previously discussed in Section I of this addendum and/or is discussed below, the Environmental Information for the Project remains largely unchanged. The Eby Property contains one Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties listing which is identified as the Martin Farm (Survey No. WA-I-269). The Martin Farm listing is identified in the southwestern portion of the property and is for the stone-faced residence and frame bank barn, which is beyond the limits of the Site. The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) has been consulted regarding the Array and Interconnection portions of the Project and their review has been comprehensive of both. Accordingly, MHT’s requirements and the Applicant’s actions remain unchanged. The Applicant is required to perform archaeological surveys of any areas of disturbance at the Site as well as perform Determinations of Eligibility for various named properties. As stated in the original ERD, the Applicant has engaged a qualified professional Cultural Resources Management (CRM) firm to address MHT’s recommendations and will continue to coordinate with the MHT to examine and review the Project for any potential impacts to cultural resources. The Applicant will provide updated information as it becomes available.
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Figure 1 – Regional Location Map
Map Image provided by ESRI ArcGis Online
Array Portion of Project Interconnection
Portion of Project
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Figure 2 – Project Vicinity
Map Image provided by ESRI ArcGis Online
Array Portion of Project
Interconnection Portion of Project
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Figure 3 – USGS 7.5-Minute Topographic Map
Map Image provided by ESRI ArcGis Online
Array Portion of Project
Interconnection Portion of Project
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Figure 4 – Aerial View of the Project Site
Map Image provided by ESRI ArcGis Online
Array Portion of Project
Interconnection Portion of Project
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Figure 5 – FEMA Mapped 100 Year Floodplain
Map Image provided by MERLIN Online – Maryland Department of Planning
Array Portion of Project
Interconnection Portion of Project
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Figure 6 – NWI Mapped Wetlands
Map Image provided by MERLIN Online – Maryland Department of Planning
Array Portion of Project
Interconnection Portion of Project
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Figure 7 – DNR Mapped Wetlands
Map Image provided by MERLIN Online – Maryland Department of Planning
Array Portion of Project
Interconnection Portion of Project
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Figure 8 – Project Layout
APPENDIX A
Routine Wetland/Waterway Delineation Study
for Array and Interconnection
Report of Wetland/Waterway Delineation Study
Mason Dixon Solar Center 17939 Mason Dixon Road Hagerstown, Maryland 21740
Triad Project No. 03-15-0656
Prepared For: Prepared By: Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC Triad Engineering, Inc. 321 East Main Street 1075-D Sherman Avenue Charlottesville, Virginia 22902 Hagerstown, Maryland 21740
June 10, 2016
TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION PAGE
1.0 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................. 1
2.0 SITE DESCRIPTION ...................................................................................... 3
3.0 OFF-SITE ANALYSIS .................................................................................... 5
4.0 ON-SITE INSPECTION .................................................................................. 6
5.0 METHODOLOGY ............................................................................................ 6
6.0 FINDINGS ......................................................................................................... 6
7.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ......................................... 7
8.0 LIMITATIONS ................................................................................................... 9
APPENDICES
Appendix 1 Site Figures Figure 1 USGS Topographic Map Figure 2 Tax Map Figure 3 NWI Map Figure 4 DNR Wetland Map Figure 5 FIRMette Figure 6 2015 Aerial Photograph
Appendix 2 Custom Soil Resource Report Appendix 3 Site Photographs Appendix 4 Wetland/Waterway Delineation Plan
Report of Wetland/Waterway Delineation Study
Mason Dixon Solar Center Washington County, Maryland Triad Project No. 03-15-0656
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Presented herein is a report summarizing the results of a Wetland/Waterway Delineation Study,
conducted by Triad Engineering, Inc. (Triad), for the Mason Dixon Solar Center located in
Washington County, Maryland. The purpose of this investigation was to identify, delineate, and
document jurisdictional waters of the U.S. and/or waters of the State, including wetlands, at the
site. This report outlines the results of our office analysis and site investigation.
The following terms and definitions are integral to this investigation:
1. Jurisdictional waters of the U.S.: Jurisdictional waters of the U.S. are currently defined as
traditional navigable waters; interstate waters, including interstate wetlands; the territorial seas; impoundments of traditional navigable waters, interstate waters, including interstate wetlands, the territorial seas, and tributaries, as defined, of such waters; tributaries, as defined, of traditional navigable waters, interstate waters, or the territorial seas and adjacent waters, including adjacent wetlands.
2. Waters of the State: Waters of the State include: (a) both surface and underground waters
within the boundaries of this State subject to its jurisdiction, including that part of the Atlantic Ocean within the boundaries of this State, the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, and all ponds, lakes, rivers, streams, tidal and nontidal wetlands, public ditches, tax ditches, and public drainage systems within this State, other than those designed and used to collect, convey, or dispose of sanitary sewage; and (b) the floodplain of free-flowing waters determined by the Department of Natural Resources on the basis of the 100-year flood frequency.
3. Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM): The term ordinary high water mark means that line on
the shore established by the fluctuations of water and indicated by physical characteristics such as a clear, natural line impressed on the bank, shelving, changes in the character of soil, destruction of terrestrial vegetation, the presence of litter and debris, or other appropriate means that consider the characteristics of the surrounding areas.
4. Wetlands: Wetlands are defined as those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface
or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal
Mason Dixon Solar Center Triad Engineering, Inc. Wetland/Waterway Delineation Study Triad Project No. 03-15-0656 June 10, 2016 Page 2
circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas.
5. Hydrophytic Vegetation: Hydrophytic vegetation is the sum total of macrophytic plant life
that occurs in areas where the frequency and duration of inundation or soil saturation produce permanently or periodically saturated soils of sufficient duration to exert a controlling influence on the plant species present.
6. Hydric Soils: Hydric soils are soils that formed under conditions of saturation, flooding, or
ponding long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions in the upper part. These soils, under natural conditions, are either saturated or inundated long enough during the growing season to support the growth and reproduction of hydrophytic vegetation.
7. Wetland Hydrology: Wetland Hydrology encompasses all hydrologic characteristics of
areas that are periodically inundated or have soils saturated to the surface at some time during the growing season.
8. Normal Circumstances: Normal circumstances are defined as the soil and hydrologic
conditions that are normally present, without regard to whether the vegetation has been removed. The determination of whether normal circumstances exist in a disturbed area involves an evaluation of the extent and relative permanence of the physical alteration of wetlands hydrology and hydrophytic vegetation and consideration of the purpose and cause of the physical alterations to hydrology and vegetation.
9. Atypical Situations: Atypical situations are areas in which indicators of one or more
wetland parameters have been obscured by some recent change or disturbance. More specifically, an atypical situation is when either (a) an alteration (removal or change) in the plant community has occurred such that a decision cannot be made using routine methods to determine if the site would support a prevalence of hydrophytic vegetation if undisturbed and no drainage action has occurred since December 23, 1985, or (b) a drainage action has occurred since December 23, 1985 that has altered the normal soil or hydrologic conditions.
10. Prior Converted Cropland: Prior converted cropland is defined as wetlands which were
both manipulated (drained or otherwise physically altered to remove excess water from the land) and cropped before December 23, 1985, to the extent that they no longer exhibit important wetland values. Specifically, prior converted cropland is inundated for no more than 14 consecutive days during the growing season. Prior converted cropland generally does not include pothole or playa wetlands. In addition, wetlands that are seasonally flooded or ponded for 15 or more consecutive days during the growing season are not considered prior converted cropland. Prior converted croplands generally have been subject to such extensive and relatively permanent physical hydrological modifications and alteration of hydrophytic vegetation that the resultant cropland constitutes the normal circumstances for
Mason Dixon Solar Center Triad Engineering, Inc. Wetland/Waterway Delineation Study Triad Project No. 03-15-0656 June 10, 2016 Page 3
purposes of Section 404 jurisdiction. Consequently, the normal circumstances of prior converted croplands generally do not support a prevalence of hydrophytic vegetation and as such are not subject to regulation under Section 404.
11. Farmed Wetlands: Farmed wetlands are wetlands which were both manipulated and cropped before December 23, 1985, but which continue to exhibit important wetland values. Specifically, farmed wetlands include cropped potholes, playas, and areas with 15 or more consecutive days (or 10 percent of the growing season, whichever is less) of inundation during the growing season. Even though the vegetation has been removed by cropping, the basic soil and hydrological characteristics remain to the extent that hydrophytic vegetation would return if the cropping ceased. As such these areas are subject to regulation under Section 404.
12. Single and Complete Project: The term single and complete project is defined at 33 CFR
330.2(i) as the total project proposed or accomplished by one owner/developer or partnership or other association of owners/developers.
13. Independent Utility: The term independent utility in the Corps regulatory program refers to
a test that is used to determine what constitutes a single and complete project. A project is considered to have independent utility if it would be constructed absent the construction of other projects in the project area. Portions of a multi-phase project that depend upon other phases of the project do not have independent utility. Phases of a project that would be constructed even if the other phases were not built can be considered as separate single and complete projects with independent utility.
2.0 SITE AND PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Mason Dixon Solar Center (the Project) is a proposed utility scale solar electric generation
system (SEGS). The Project as proposed by Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC (the Developer)
will be located on portions of two different properties (Tax Map 10, part of (p/o) Parcels 68 &
142), which are respectively owned by 2003 Mason Dixon, LLC and Lowell and Luella Eby (the
Landowners). The Project will occupy approximately 200 acres of land consisting primarily of
agricultural fields (the Site). The Site is segregated by a Norfolk Southern railway and Daley
Road.
The approximate 200-acre Site (Washington County Tax Map 10, p/o Parcels 68 & 142) is
located south of Pennsylvania Route 163 (Mason Dixon Road) and east of Maryland Route 63
(Greencastle Pike) in Washington County, Maryland (Latitude N 39.715962/Longitude W -
77.755022, Datum WGS 84). The Alexandria Drafting Company (ADC) Washington County,
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Maryland Street Map Book, page and grid coordinate for the project site are 9 and H-4/K-5,
respectively. The properties are addressed as 17939 Mason Dixon Road and 14611
Greencastle Pike, Hagerstown, Maryland 21740.
The Site is located in the Upper Potomac River Tributary Basin and is within the Antietam Creek
Watershed (USGS Hydrological Unit Code 02140502) and the Conococheague Watershed
(Maryland 8-Digit Watershed Code 02140504). Antietam Creek and Conococheague Creek are
tributaries to the Potomac River. According to Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR)
26.08.02.08 receiving waters in the vicinity of the Site are designated as USE IV-P -
Recreational Trout Waters and Public Water Supply. This class designation includes waters that
are public water supply and are capable of holding or supporting adult trout for put-and-take
fishing. In-stream construction is prohibited in Use IV-P waters from March 1 – May 31.
The Site is located in a rural area but is situated in the vicinity of a mixture of agricultural,
residential, and light commercial use land. The Site is bordered to the north by Pennsylvania
Route 163 (Mason Dixon Road), undeveloped agricultural land, and residences. The Site is
bordered to the south by undeveloped agricultural land and residences. The Site is bordered to
the east by residences and undeveloped agricultural land. The Site is bordered to the west by
Greencastle Pike with undeveloped, agricultural land, residences, and a natural gas compressor
station located beyond. The Site is segregated by a Norfolk Southern railway and Daley Road.
The local surface topography and land features in the vicinity of the site are more clearly
illustrated on the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5-Minute Series Topographic Map attached
as Figure 1 and the 2015 aerial photograph attached as Figure 6. A copy of the Tax Map is
also attached as Figure 2.
The Project will consist of photovoltaic modules (solar panels) supported on fixed tilt support
frames or trackers. These solar panels will sit approximately 10 - 12 feet above the ground, and
will be arranged in rows spaced approximately eight feet apart. Minimal ground disturbances
will be required for the project because the solar panels, for the most part, will follow the site
topography and be constructed on existing grades. Minor earth disturbances will be required to
construct foundation systems, access roads, the electrical collection system, and perimeter
fencing. There are no planned operations and/or maintenance facilities as part of this Project.
There are no water and/or sewer requirements for the Project.
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3.0 OFF-SITE ANALYSIS
The applicable portions of the Mason-Dixon, Maryland (1971) and Hagerstown, Maryland (1999)
USGS 7.5-Minute Series Topographic Maps are included as Figure 1. The USGS topographic
maps identify two surface water features at the Site consisting of unnamed tributaries (UNTs) to
Toms Run.
According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS) National Wetland Inventory (NWI) map and
the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) wetland map, there are no wetland
habitats at the Site. The NWI Map that was produced for the Site is included as Figure 3 and
the DNR Wetland Map is included as Figure 4.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Resources
Conservation Service (NRCS) Custom Soil Resource Report for Washington County, Maryland,
the soils at the Site are a mix of Funkstown, Hagerstown, Lindside, Melvin, Swanpond and
Swanpond-Funkstown series soils. With the exception of the Melvin soil units which are
classified as poorly drained, most of the soil units within the Site are listed as well-drained or
moderately well-drained. Melvin soil units are also classified as having frequent flooding with no
frequency of ponding while the remaining soil units are listed as having no frequency of flooding
or ponding. There are two listed hydric soil types within the site consisting of Ln – Lindside silt
loam and Me – Melvin silt loam. These soil units are identified in association with the
channelized UNTs to Toms Run at the site. A USDA NRCS Custom Soil Resource Report for
the site is included as Appendix 2.
According to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Insurance Rate Map
(FIRM) No. 240070 0080A, effective May 1, 1978, there is no FEMA mapped 100-year
floodplain within the site. It should be noted however; that the Maryland Department of the
Environment (MDE) regulates the 100-year water surface elevation of every jurisdictional
waterway regardless of whether there is FEMA mapped 100-year floodplain present. On this
basis, the UNTs to Toms Run at the site will have a regulated 100-year water surface elevation,
which may have to be determined through a Hydrology and Hydraulics Analysis. A FIRMette for
the site is included as Figure 5.
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4.0 ON-SITE INSPECTION
Patrick Upham and Tim Kellerman of Triad conducted on-site investigations at the site on
December 16, 2015 and April 26, 2016. The physical condition of the site at these times was
typical for the time of year. During the on-site investigation, the site was accessed and
inspected on foot and the interior of the overall site was examined for the presence of
jurisdictional waters of the U.S., including wetlands. Photographs documenting site conditions
at the time of the on-site investigation are included as Appendix 3.
5.0 METHODOLOGY
This evaluation was performed in general accordance with the Routine and Atypical Wetland
Determination Methods as outlined in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) Wetlands
Delineation Manual (Y-87-1), dated January 1987, and the Interim Regional Supplement to the
Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Eastern Mountains and Piedmont Region
(ERDC/EL TR-12-9), dated April 2012.
Wetlands identified during this investigation have been classified in general accordance with the
Cowardin system. The Cowardin system is a comprehensive classification system of wetlands
and deepwater habitats that was developed for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The
Cowardin system is hierarchical and includes several layers of detail for wetland classification
including: a subsystem of water flow; classes of substrate types; subclasses of vegetation types
and dominant species; as well as flooding regimes and salinity levels for each system.
6.0 FINDINGS
Channelized UNTs to Toms Run resembling linear agricultural ditches were identified at the
Site. These UNTs to Toms Run consist of non-relatively permanent waterways (non-RPWs)
that only sporadically convey flow during the wet season and/or significant precipitation events
as a result of sinkholes and karst topography. Typical stream characteristics, including an
OHWM, are not readily apparent; rather these waterways are dominated by terrestrial
vegetation. Despite this, these UNTs to Toms Run have been identified as jurisdictional as they
sometimes convey ground and surface waters and they have a nexus to a traditional navigable
waterway (TNW).
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Upland conditions were observed throughout the remainder of the Site. With the exception of
aforementioned jurisdictional waterways, the Site consists of livestock grazed pasture and
agricultural cropland that would be considered non-wetlands. Specific soil types, which are
mapped by the soil survey in the area of the Site, are discussed in Section 3.0 of this report.
Based on a visual inspection of soil profiles with the aid of a Munsell Soil Color Book, the soils
over the remainder of the Site did not exhibit common indicators of hydric soils but instead,
exhibited characteristics of upland soils. With the exception of surface saturation from
precipitation and erosion from stormwater runoff; positive wetland hydrology indicators were
likewise absent from the remainder of the Site.
7.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
In conclusion, Triad performed a Wetland/Waterway Delineation Study, which consisted of an
off-site, office analysis and an on-site inspection using the atypical and routine approaches as
outlined in the Corps 1987 Wetlands Delineation Manual to identify, delineate, and document
jurisdictional waters of the U.S. and waters of the State, including wetlands, at the Site. As a
result of this investigation, it is our conclusion that jurisdictional waters of the U.S. and waters of
the State, as one and the same, are present at the Site in the form of UNTs to Toms Run.
These jurisdictional areas within the Site are shown on the Wetland/Waterway Delineation Plan
is included as Appendix 4. No Wetland Determination Data Forms were prepared as part of
this investigation, since no suspect wetlands were encountered.
Several important concepts should be considered prior to proposing or applying for
authorization to impact jurisdictional waters of the U.S. and/or waters of the State, including
wetlands. These concepts are universal among the authorities that regulate jurisdictional
wetlands and waterways and must be demonstrated by the applicant to effectively and
efficiently negotiate the permitting process. First and foremost, an applicant must demonstrate
that there are no alternatives and that all appropriate and practicable avoidance and
minimization measures have been considered. Second, it must be demonstrated that the
proposed activity will not directly or indirectly affect rare, threatened, and/or endangered
species, historic properties, or archaeological sites. Third, the concept of a “single and
complete project” must be considered to ensure that an issued permit is comprehensive and
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applies to all of the proposed impacts to jurisdictional waters of the U.S. and/or waters of the
State, including wetlands, which could occur as part of a defined Project.
If temporary or permanent impacts are anticipated to jurisdictional waters of the U.S. and/or
waters of the State, including wetlands, the 25-foot wide wetland buffer, and/or the 100-year
floodplain, a Joint Federal/State Permit Application (JPA) must be submitted to the MDE
Regulatory Services Coordination Office (RSC). The RSC will determine what type of
authorization is necessary and will forward the application to the appropriate agencies.
Impacts to jurisdictional waters of the U.S. and waters of the state, as one and the same, will
require authorization from both the Corps and the MDE. The Corps has issued a programmatic
general permit in Maryland (MDSPGP-4, effective October 1, 2011), which is a federal Section
404 permit, for unavoidable construction activities in jurisdictional waters of the U.S., including
wetlands. This statewide general permit replaces Nationwide Permits (NWPs) and Regional
General Permits (RGPs) for most types of work. The MDSPGP-4 applies to the discharge of
dredged or fill material and/or the placement of structures, that are components of a single and
complete project, including all attendant features both temporary and/or permanent, which
individually and/or cumulatively result in direct or indirect impacts not to exceed 1.0 acre (43,560
square feet) of waters of the U.S., including wetlands and/or 2,000 linear feet of streams, for
specific categories of activities as regulated by Section 404 of the CWA and/or Section 10 of the
Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899. Category A activities that have only minimal individual and
cumulative adverse effects on the environment (less than 5,000 square feet and/or 200 linear
feet) will not require a review by the Corps. Category A activates are usually reviewed and
authorized by the MDE alone on the Corps behalf. Category B activities on the other hand will
be reviewed and verified by the MDE and the Corps along with appropriate resource agencies
to determine whether such activities may be authorized under the MDSPGP-4. If the project
impacts will exceed the maximum acreage and/or linear limits of the MDSPGP-4, an individual
Section 404 permit (IP) will be required from the Corps. Standard IPs are issued for activities
that have more than minimal adverse impacts to waters of the U.S. and evaluation of each
permit application involves a more thorough review of the potential environmental and
socioeconomic effects of the proposed activity. The MDE will generally issue a Nontidal
Wetlands and Waterways Permit in conjunction with the MDSPGP or IP.
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Impacts to only waters of the State, including wetlands, the 25-foot wide wetland buffer, and/or
100-year floodplain, will be authorized by MDE alone via a Nontidal Wetlands and Waterway
Permit or a Letter of Exemption, unless exempted by regulation. Activities that require only a
Letter of Exemption include: repair of serviceable water control structures; activities in isolated
nontidal wetlands of less than one acre and having no significant plant or wildlife value; activities
having a cumulative loss of less than 5,000 square feet of nontidal wetlands, and 25-foot buffer,
containing no significant plant or wildlife value; installation of overhead and underground utility
lines; and an entire and complete project that impacts less than two acres of farmed nontidal
wetlands given that the nontidal wetlands are inundated for 15 or more consecutive days during
the growing season.
When authorizations are issued for activities which will cause unavoidable losses of nontidal
wetlands, the losses must be countered with wetland gains to meet the “no net loss” goal. The
primary means of accomplishing wetland gains is through wetland mitigation. Nontidal wetland
mitigation is the creation, restoration, or enhancement of nontidal wetlands, to compensate for
nontidal wetlands that were or will be lost due to regulated activities or non-exempt agricultural
activities. The State definition of mitigation corresponds to the Federal definition of
compensatory mitigation. Mitigation is not required for temporary impacts to wetlands or
impacts to the wetland buffer or expanded buffer. Compensatory mitigation is generally
required for all wetland impacts greater than 1/10 acre and/or stream bed impacts greater than
200 linear feet. Noteworthy, is that once the 1/10 acre wetland threshold or the 200 linear foot
stream threshold is exceeded, compensatory mitigation is required for all proposed impacts.
Compensatory mitigation ratios for wetland impacts are generally 2:1 for forested wetlands;
1.5:1 for scrub-shrub wetlands; and 1:1 for emergent wetlands. Compensatory mitigation
requirements for stream impacts, when required, are generally determined on a case-by-case
basis.
8.0 LIMITATIONS
This investigation and report have been prepared specifically for the Site by Triad for the use of
the addressee, their authorized representatives, and their successors and assigns under the
terms and limitations of our proposal and general conditions. The work on this project has been
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carried out in accordance with reasonable and acceptable environmental practices. No other
warranty, either written or implied, is applicable to this project.
Our opinions and conclusions were based on observations from a point in time; however, the
environmental parameters associated with wetlands and waterways are continually changing
over time due to both natural and anthropogenic occurrences. Therefore, site conditions are
likely to vary over time from those encountered during our investigation. This is especially true
for sites surrounded by ongoing development, sites undergoing improvements, or sites in
agricultural production. Specifically sites in agricultural production may contain “Farmed
Wetlands” and/or “Prior Converted Cropland” that were not recognizable as wetlands at the time
of our investigation. These areas may develop more distinguishable wetland characteristics
and/or revert to wetlands when the agricultural practice ceases or the method previously utilized
to drain “Prior Converted Cropland” fails.
Due to the fact that wetlands and waterways are ecological transition zones, the accuracy with
which they can be delineated is limited. Boundaries may also change over time due to
continually changing conditions in the environment and as such, Triad cannot assume
responsibility for their changing conditions. In addition, the evaluation of wetland parameters is
subjective and regulatory personnel may interpret conditions differently based on their
experience level and perspective and/or a different point in time. On this basis, our opinions
and conclusions expressed herein represent our best professional judgment and are reflective
of the site conditions at the time of our investigations.
According to the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), the Corps has the authority to determine
what is regulated under Section 9 and 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 and Section
404 of the Clean Water Act. Similarly, the MDE has authority under the Nontidal Wetlands
Protection Act. The Nontidal Wetlands Protection Act regulates and restricts all activities that
could impact waters of the State. The act also helps to ensure “no net loss” of wetlands by
requiring mitigation or compensation for any wetland losses. This law differs from federal
regulation on issues of “isolated” wetlands, the alteration of vegetation and hydrology, and
regulation of a 25-foot buffer. In Maryland, buffer requirements are expanded to 100-foot for
“nontidal wetlands of special State concern,” which have been designated by regulation as
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having exceptional ecological or educational value. As such, our conclusions expressed herein
should not be considered final until validated by the Corps and/or the MDE.
We appreciate the opportunity to provide our services on this project. Should you have any
questions concerning this report, please contact the undersigned at 301-797-6400.
Prepared by:
TRIAD ENGINEERING, INC.
Patrick M. Upham
Environmental Scientist
Timothy J. Kellerman
Senior Environmental Scientist
APPENDIX 1
SITE FIGURES
FIGURE 1
Mason Dixon Solar Center 17939 Mason Dixon Road
Hagerstown, Maryland 21740
N
Site Vicinity Topographic Map
Source: U.S. Geological Survey 7.5-Minute Series Topographic Map Mason Dixon, Maryland-Pennsylvania Quadrangle, 1971
Hagerstown, Maryland 1999 Not to Scale
Site Location
FIGURE 2
Mason Dixon Solar Center 17939 Mason Dixon Road
Hagerstown, Maryland 21740
N
Tax Map
Source: MD Finder Online Maryland Department of Planning Tax Map 10, P/O Parcels 68 & 142
FIGURE 3
Mason Dixon Solar Center 17939 Mason Dixon Road
Hagerstown, Maryland 21740
N
National Wetland Inventory Map
Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – NWI
FIGURE 4
Mason Dixon Solar Center 17939 Mason Dixon Road
Hagerstown, Maryland 21740
N
Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wetland Map
Source: Merlin Online Not to Scale
FIGURE 5
Mason Dixon Solar Center 17939 Mason Dixon Road
Hagerstown, Maryland 21740
N
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM)
Source: FEMA
FIGURE 6
Mason Dixon Solar Center 17939 Mason Dixon Road
Hagerstown, Maryland 21740
N
2015 Aerial Photograph
Source: GoogleEarth Not to Scale
APPENDIX 2
CUSTOM SOIL RESOURCE REPORT
United StatesDepartment ofAgriculture
A product of the NationalCooperative Soil Survey,a joint effort of the UnitedStates Department ofAgriculture and otherFederal agencies, Stateagencies including theAgricultural ExperimentStations, and localparticipants
Custom Soil ResourceReport forFranklin County,Pennsylvania, andWashington County,Maryland
NaturalResourcesConservationService
June 8, 2016
PrefaceSoil surveys contain information that affects land use planning in survey areas. Theyhighlight soil limitations that affect various land uses and provide information aboutthe properties of the soils in the survey areas. Soil surveys are designed for manydifferent users, including farmers, ranchers, foresters, agronomists, urban planners,community officials, engineers, developers, builders, and home buyers. Also,conservationists, teachers, students, and specialists in recreation, waste disposal,and pollution control can use the surveys to help them understand, protect, or enhancethe environment.
Various land use regulations of Federal, State, and local governments may imposespecial restrictions on land use or land treatment. Soil surveys identify soil propertiesthat are used in making various land use or land treatment decisions. The informationis intended to help the land users identify and reduce the effects of soil limitations onvarious land uses. The landowner or user is responsible for identifying and complyingwith existing laws and regulations.
Although soil survey information can be used for general farm, local, and wider areaplanning, onsite investigation is needed to supplement this information in some cases.Examples include soil quality assessments (http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/soils/health/) and certain conservation and engineering applications. Formore detailed information, contact your local USDA Service Center (http://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app?agency=nrcs) or your NRCS State SoilScientist (http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/soils/contactus/?cid=nrcs142p2_053951).
Great differences in soil properties can occur within short distances. Some soils areseasonally wet or subject to flooding. Some are too unstable to be used as afoundation for buildings or roads. Clayey or wet soils are poorly suited to use as septictank absorption fields. A high water table makes a soil poorly suited to basements orunderground installations.
The National Cooperative Soil Survey is a joint effort of the United States Departmentof Agriculture and other Federal agencies, State agencies including the AgriculturalExperiment Stations, and local agencies. The Natural Resources ConservationService (NRCS) has leadership for the Federal part of the National Cooperative SoilSurvey.
Information about soils is updated periodically. Updated information is availablethrough the NRCS Web Soil Survey, the site for official soil survey information.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programsand activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and whereapplicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexualorientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or a part of anindividual's income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all prohibitedbases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means
2
for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) shouldcontact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file acomplaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider andemployer.
3
ContentsPreface....................................................................................................................2How Soil Surveys Are Made..................................................................................5Soil Map..................................................................................................................7
Soil Map................................................................................................................8Legend..................................................................................................................9Map Unit Legend................................................................................................10Map Unit Descriptions........................................................................................10
Franklin County, Pennsylvania.......................................................................13HaA—Hagerstown silt loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes.....................................13HcB—Hagerstown-Carbo silty clay loams, 3 to 8 percent slopes, very
rocky.....................................................................................................14Washington County, Maryland........................................................................17
HaA—Hagerstown silt loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes.....................................17HaB—Hagerstown silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes.....................................18HaC—Hagerstown silt loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes...................................20HbB—Hagerstown silty clay loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes, very rocky.........21HcB—Hagerstown-Rock outcrop complex, 3 to 8 percent slopes...............22Ln—Lindside silt loam.................................................................................23Me—Melvin silt loam...................................................................................25SpA—Swanpond silt loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes.......................................26SsA—Swanpond-Funkstown silt loams, 0 to 3 percent slopes...................27
References............................................................................................................29
4
How Soil Surveys Are MadeSoil surveys are made to provide information about the soils and miscellaneous areasin a specific area. They include a description of the soils and miscellaneous areas andtheir location on the landscape and tables that show soil properties and limitationsaffecting various uses. Soil scientists observed the steepness, length, and shape ofthe slopes; the general pattern of drainage; the kinds of crops and native plants; andthe kinds of bedrock. They observed and described many soil profiles. A soil profile isthe sequence of natural layers, or horizons, in a soil. The profile extends from thesurface down into the unconsolidated material in which the soil formed or from thesurface down to bedrock. The unconsolidated material is devoid of roots and otherliving organisms and has not been changed by other biological activity.
Currently, soils are mapped according to the boundaries of major land resource areas(MLRAs). MLRAs are geographically associated land resource units that sharecommon characteristics related to physiography, geology, climate, water resources,soils, biological resources, and land uses (USDA, 2006). Soil survey areas typicallyconsist of parts of one or more MLRA.
The soils and miscellaneous areas in a survey area occur in an orderly pattern that isrelated to the geology, landforms, relief, climate, and natural vegetation of the area.Each kind of soil and miscellaneous area is associated with a particular kind oflandform or with a segment of the landform. By observing the soils and miscellaneousareas in the survey area and relating their position to specific segments of thelandform, a soil scientist develops a concept, or model, of how they were formed. Thus,during mapping, this model enables the soil scientist to predict with a considerabledegree of accuracy the kind of soil or miscellaneous area at a specific location on thelandscape.
Commonly, individual soils on the landscape merge into one another as theircharacteristics gradually change. To construct an accurate soil map, however, soilscientists must determine the boundaries between the soils. They can observe onlya limited number of soil profiles. Nevertheless, these observations, supplemented byan understanding of the soil-vegetation-landscape relationship, are sufficient to verifypredictions of the kinds of soil in an area and to determine the boundaries.
Soil scientists recorded the characteristics of the soil profiles that they studied. Theynoted soil color, texture, size and shape of soil aggregates, kind and amount of rockfragments, distribution of plant roots, reaction, and other features that enable them toidentify soils. After describing the soils in the survey area and determining theirproperties, the soil scientists assigned the soils to taxonomic classes (units).Taxonomic classes are concepts. Each taxonomic class has a set of soilcharacteristics with precisely defined limits. The classes are used as a basis forcomparison to classify soils systematically. Soil taxonomy, the system of taxonomicclassification used in the United States, is based mainly on the kind and character ofsoil properties and the arrangement of horizons within the profile. After the soilscientists classified and named the soils in the survey area, they compared the
5
individual soils with similar soils in the same taxonomic class in other areas so thatthey could confirm data and assemble additional data based on experience andresearch.
The objective of soil mapping is not to delineate pure map unit components; theobjective is to separate the landscape into landforms or landform segments that havesimilar use and management requirements. Each map unit is defined by a uniquecombination of soil components and/or miscellaneous areas in predictableproportions. Some components may be highly contrasting to the other components ofthe map unit. The presence of minor components in a map unit in no way diminishesthe usefulness or accuracy of the data. The delineation of such landforms andlandform segments on the map provides sufficient information for the development ofresource plans. If intensive use of small areas is planned, onsite investigation isneeded to define and locate the soils and miscellaneous areas.
Soil scientists make many field observations in the process of producing a soil map.The frequency of observation is dependent upon several factors, including scale ofmapping, intensity of mapping, design of map units, complexity of the landscape, andexperience of the soil scientist. Observations are made to test and refine the soil-landscape model and predictions and to verify the classification of the soils at specificlocations. Once the soil-landscape model is refined, a significantly smaller number ofmeasurements of individual soil properties are made and recorded. Thesemeasurements may include field measurements, such as those for color, depth tobedrock, and texture, and laboratory measurements, such as those for content ofsand, silt, clay, salt, and other components. Properties of each soil typically vary fromone point to another across the landscape.
Observations for map unit components are aggregated to develop ranges ofcharacteristics for the components. The aggregated values are presented. Directmeasurements do not exist for every property presented for every map unitcomponent. Values for some properties are estimated from combinations of otherproperties.
While a soil survey is in progress, samples of some of the soils in the area generallyare collected for laboratory analyses and for engineering tests. Soil scientists interpretthe data from these analyses and tests as well as the field-observed characteristicsand the soil properties to determine the expected behavior of the soils under differentuses. Interpretations for all of the soils are field tested through observation of the soilsin different uses and under different levels of management. Some interpretations aremodified to fit local conditions, and some new interpretations are developed to meetlocal needs. Data are assembled from other sources, such as research information,production records, and field experience of specialists. For example, data on cropyields under defined levels of management are assembled from farm records and fromfield or plot experiments on the same kinds of soil.
Predictions about soil behavior are based not only on soil properties but also on suchvariables as climate and biological activity. Soil conditions are predictable over longperiods of time, but they are not predictable from year to year. For example, soilscientists can predict with a fairly high degree of accuracy that a given soil will havea high water table within certain depths in most years, but they cannot predict that ahigh water table will always be at a specific level in the soil on a specific date.
After soil scientists located and identified the significant natural bodies of soil in thesurvey area, they drew the boundaries of these bodies on aerial photographs andidentified each as a specific map unit. Aerial photographs show trees, buildings, fields,roads, and rivers, all of which help in locating boundaries accurately.
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Soil MapThe soil map section includes the soil map for the defined area of interest, a list of soilmap units on the map and extent of each map unit, and cartographic symbolsdisplayed on the map. Also presented are various metadata about data used toproduce the map, and a description of each soil map unit.
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Map projection: Web Mercator Corner coordinates: WGS84 Edge tics: UTM Zone 18N WGS840 500 1000 2000 3000
Feet0 150 300 600 900
MetersMap Scale: 1:11,000 if printed on A landscape (11" x 8.5") sheet.
MAP LEGEND MAP INFORMATION
Area of Interest (AOI)Area of Interest (AOI)
SoilsSoil Map Unit Polygons
Soil Map Unit Lines
Soil Map Unit Points
Special Point FeaturesBlowout
Borrow Pit
Clay Spot
Closed Depression
Gravel Pit
Gravelly Spot
Landfill
Lava Flow
Marsh or swamp
Mine or Quarry
Miscellaneous Water
Perennial Water
Rock Outcrop
Saline Spot
Sandy Spot
Severely Eroded Spot
Sinkhole
Slide or Slip
Sodic Spot
Spoil Area
Stony Spot
Very Stony Spot
Wet Spot
Other
Special Line Features
Water FeaturesStreams and Canals
TransportationRails
Interstate Highways
US Routes
Major Roads
Local Roads
BackgroundAerial Photography
The soil surveys that comprise your AOI were mapped at scalesranging from 1:12,000 to 1:24,000.
Please rely on the bar scale on each map sheet for mapmeasurements.
Source of Map: Natural Resources Conservation ServiceWeb Soil Survey URL: http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.govCoordinate System: Web Mercator (EPSG:3857)
Maps from the Web Soil Survey are based on the Web Mercatorprojection, which preserves direction and shape but distortsdistance and area. A projection that preserves area, such as theAlbers equal-area conic projection, should be used if more accuratecalculations of distance or area are required.
This product is generated from the USDA-NRCS certified data as ofthe version date(s) listed below.
Soil Survey Area: Franklin County, PennsylvaniaSurvey Area Data: Version 8, Nov 16, 2015
Soil Survey Area: Washington County, MarylandSurvey Area Data: Version 15, Sep 17, 2015
Your area of interest (AOI) includes more than one soil survey area.These survey areas may have been mapped at different scales, witha different land use in mind, at different times, or at different levelsof detail. This may result in map unit symbols, soil properties, andinterpretations that do not completely agree across soil survey areaboundaries.
Soil map units are labeled (as space allows) for map scales 1:50,000or larger.
Date(s) aerial images were photographed: Apr 14, 2011—Nov 6,2011
The orthophoto or other base map on which the soil lines werecompiled and digitized probably differs from the backgroundimagery displayed on these maps. As a result, some minor shiftingof map unit boundaries may be evident.
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Map Unit Legend
Franklin County, Pennsylvania (PA055)
Map Unit Symbol Map Unit Name Acres in AOI Percent of AOI
HaA Hagerstown silt loam, 0 to 3percent slopes
0.5 0.2%
HcB Hagerstown-Carbo silty clayloams, 3 to 8 percent slopes,very rocky
0.3 0.1%
Subtotals for Soil Survey Area 0.8 0.4%
Totals for Area of Interest 204.0 100.0%
Washington County, Maryland (MD043)
Map Unit Symbol Map Unit Name Acres in AOI Percent of AOI
HaA Hagerstown silt loam, 0 to 3percent slopes
37.8 18.6%
HaB Hagerstown silt loam, 3 to 8percent slopes
95.9 47.0%
HaC Hagerstown silt loam, 8 to 15percent slopes
5.1 2.5%
HbB Hagerstown silty clay loam, 3 to8 percent slopes, very rocky
23.7 11.6%
HcB Hagerstown-Rock outcropcomplex, 3 to 8 percent slopes
2.7 1.3%
Ln Lindside silt loam 1.6 0.8%
Me Melvin silt loam 7.7 3.8%
SpA Swanpond silt loam, 0 to 3percent slopes
7.7 3.8%
SsA Swanpond-Funkstown siltloams, 0 to 3 percent slopes
20.9 10.3%
Subtotals for Soil Survey Area 203.2 99.6%
Totals for Area of Interest 204.0 100.0%
Map Unit DescriptionsThe map units delineated on the detailed soil maps in a soil survey represent the soilsor miscellaneous areas in the survey area. The map unit descriptions, along with themaps, can be used to determine the composition and properties of a unit.
A map unit delineation on a soil map represents an area dominated by one or moremajor kinds of soil or miscellaneous areas. A map unit is identified and namedaccording to the taxonomic classification of the dominant soils. Within a taxonomicclass there are precisely defined limits for the properties of the soils. On the landscape,however, the soils are natural phenomena, and they have the characteristic variabilityof all natural phenomena. Thus, the range of some observed properties may extend
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beyond the limits defined for a taxonomic class. Areas of soils of a single taxonomicclass rarely, if ever, can be mapped without including areas of other taxonomicclasses. Consequently, every map unit is made up of the soils or miscellaneous areasfor which it is named and some minor components that belong to taxonomic classesother than those of the major soils.
Most minor soils have properties similar to those of the dominant soil or soils in themap unit, and thus they do not affect use and management. These are callednoncontrasting, or similar, components. They may or may not be mentioned in aparticular map unit description. Other minor components, however, have propertiesand behavioral characteristics divergent enough to affect use or to require differentmanagement. These are called contrasting, or dissimilar, components. They generallyare in small areas and could not be mapped separately because of the scale used.Some small areas of strongly contrasting soils or miscellaneous areas are identifiedby a special symbol on the maps. If included in the database for a given area, thecontrasting minor components are identified in the map unit descriptions along withsome characteristics of each. A few areas of minor components may not have beenobserved, and consequently they are not mentioned in the descriptions, especiallywhere the pattern was so complex that it was impractical to make enough observationsto identify all the soils and miscellaneous areas on the landscape.
The presence of minor components in a map unit in no way diminishes the usefulnessor accuracy of the data. The objective of mapping is not to delineate pure taxonomicclasses but rather to separate the landscape into landforms or landform segments thathave similar use and management requirements. The delineation of such segmentson the map provides sufficient information for the development of resource plans. Ifintensive use of small areas is planned, however, onsite investigation is needed todefine and locate the soils and miscellaneous areas.
An identifying symbol precedes the map unit name in the map unit descriptions. Eachdescription includes general facts about the unit and gives important soil propertiesand qualities.
Soils that have profiles that are almost alike make up a soil series. Except fordifferences in texture of the surface layer, all the soils of a series have major horizonsthat are similar in composition, thickness, and arrangement.
Soils of one series can differ in texture of the surface layer, slope, stoniness, salinity,degree of erosion, and other characteristics that affect their use. On the basis of suchdifferences, a soil series is divided into soil phases. Most of the areas shown on thedetailed soil maps are phases of soil series. The name of a soil phase commonlyindicates a feature that affects use or management. For example, Alpha silt loam, 0to 2 percent slopes, is a phase of the Alpha series.
Some map units are made up of two or more major soils or miscellaneous areas.These map units are complexes, associations, or undifferentiated groups.
A complex consists of two or more soils or miscellaneous areas in such an intricatepattern or in such small areas that they cannot be shown separately on the maps. Thepattern and proportion of the soils or miscellaneous areas are somewhat similar in allareas. Alpha-Beta complex, 0 to 6 percent slopes, is an example.
An association is made up of two or more geographically associated soils ormiscellaneous areas that are shown as one unit on the maps. Because of present oranticipated uses of the map units in the survey area, it was not considered practicalor necessary to map the soils or miscellaneous areas separately. The pattern andrelative proportion of the soils or miscellaneous areas are somewhat similar. Alpha-Beta association, 0 to 2 percent slopes, is an example.
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An undifferentiated group is made up of two or more soils or miscellaneous areas thatcould be mapped individually but are mapped as one unit because similarinterpretations can be made for use and management. The pattern and proportion ofthe soils or miscellaneous areas in a mapped area are not uniform. An area can bemade up of only one of the major soils or miscellaneous areas, or it can be made upof all of them. Alpha and Beta soils, 0 to 2 percent slopes, is an example.
Some surveys include miscellaneous areas. Such areas have little or no soil materialand support little or no vegetation. Rock outcrop is an example.
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Franklin County, Pennsylvania
HaA—Hagerstown silt loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes
Map Unit SettingNational map unit symbol: 2tb05Elevation: 310 to 1,750 feetMean annual precipitation: 37 to 45 inchesMean annual air temperature: 45 to 57 degrees FFrost-free period: 155 to 205 daysFarmland classification: All areas are prime farmland
Map Unit CompositionHagerstown and similar soils: 85 percentMinor components: 15 percentEstimates are based on observations, descriptions, and transects of the mapunit.
Description of Hagerstown
SettingLandform: HillsLandform position (two-dimensional): Backslope, footslope, summitLandform position (three-dimensional): Side slope, interfluveDown-slope shape: Linear, concaveAcross-slope shape: Linear, concaveParent material: Clayey residuum weathered from limestone
Typical profileAp - 0 to 10 inches: silt loamBt1 - 10 to 21 inches: silty clay loamBt2 - 21 to 56 inches: silty clayC - 56 to 73 inches: silty clay loamR - 73 to 83 inches: bedrock
Properties and qualitiesSlope: 0 to 3 percentDepth to restrictive feature: 43 to 98 inches to lithic bedrockNatural drainage class: Well drainedRunoff class: LowCapacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately high to high
(0.60 to 2.00 in/hr)Depth to water table: More than 80 inchesFrequency of flooding: NoneFrequency of ponding: NoneSalinity, maximum in profile: Nonsaline (0.0 to 1.9 mmhos/cm)Available water storage in profile: Moderate (about 7.2 inches)
Interpretive groupsLand capability classification (irrigated): None specifiedLand capability classification (nonirrigated): 1Hydrologic Soil Group: B
Minor Components
CarboPercent of map unit: 5 percent
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Landform: HillsLandform position (two-dimensional): Summit, backslope, shoulderLandform position (three-dimensional): Crest, side slopeDown-slope shape: Linear, convexAcross-slope shape: Linear, convex
OpequonPercent of map unit: 5 percentLandform: RidgesLandform position (two-dimensional): Shoulder, summitLandform position (three-dimensional): Side slope, crestDown-slope shape: Linear, convexAcross-slope shape: Convex, linear
NolinPercent of map unit: 3 percentLandform: SwalesLandform position (two-dimensional): ToeslopeLandform position (three-dimensional): Base slope, talfDown-slope shape: Linear, concaveAcross-slope shape: Linear, concave
FunkstownPercent of map unit: 2 percentLandform: Valley floorsLandform position (two-dimensional): ToeslopeLandform position (three-dimensional): Base slopeDown-slope shape: ConcaveAcross-slope shape: Concave, linear
HcB—Hagerstown-Carbo silty clay loams, 3 to 8 percent slopes, veryrocky
Map Unit SettingNational map unit symbol: l980Elevation: 300 to 3,000 feetMean annual precipitation: 30 to 50 inchesMean annual air temperature: 45 to 57 degrees FFrost-free period: 120 to 200 daysFarmland classification: All areas are prime farmland
Map Unit CompositionHagerstown and similar soils: 65 percentCarbo and similar soils: 20 percentMinor components: 15 percentEstimates are based on observations, descriptions, and transects of the mapunit.
Description of Hagerstown
SettingLandform: Ridges, valley floors
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Landform position (two-dimensional): Backslope, shoulderLandform position (three-dimensional): Side slopeDown-slope shape: Linear, convexAcross-slope shape: Linear, convexParent material: Residuum weathered from limestone
Typical profileH1 - 0 to 8 inches: silty clay loamH2 - 8 to 21 inches: clayH3 - 21 to 65 inches: clay
Properties and qualitiesSlope: 3 to 8 percentDepth to restrictive feature: 60 to 80 inches to lithic bedrockNatural drainage class: Well drainedRunoff class: MediumCapacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately high to high
(0.60 to 2.00 in/hr)Depth to water table: More than 80 inchesFrequency of flooding: NoneFrequency of ponding: NoneAvailable water storage in profile: High (about 10.4 inches)
Interpretive groupsLand capability classification (irrigated): None specifiedLand capability classification (nonirrigated): 2eHydrologic Soil Group: B
Description of Carbo
SettingLandform: RidgesLandform position (two-dimensional): Summit, backslopeLandform position (three-dimensional): Interfluve, side slopeDown-slope shape: Convex, linearAcross-slope shape: Linear, convexParent material: Residuum weathered from limestone
Typical profileH1 - 0 to 10 inches: silty clay loamH2 - 10 to 37 inches: clayH3 - 37 to 47 inches: bedrock
Properties and qualitiesSlope: 3 to 8 percentDepth to restrictive feature: 20 to 40 inches to lithic bedrockNatural drainage class: Well drainedRunoff class: HighCapacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately low to
moderately high (0.06 to 0.20 in/hr)Depth to water table: More than 80 inchesFrequency of flooding: NoneFrequency of ponding: NoneAvailable water storage in profile: Low (about 5.0 inches)
Interpretive groupsLand capability classification (irrigated): None specifiedLand capability classification (nonirrigated): 2e
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Hydrologic Soil Group: D
Minor Components
OpequonPercent of map unit: 5 percent
FunkstownPercent of map unit: 4 percent
Rock outcropPercent of map unit: 3 percent
ClarksburgPercent of map unit: 3 percent
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Washington County, Maryland
HaA—Hagerstown silt loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes
Map Unit SettingNational map unit symbol: 2tb05Elevation: 310 to 1,750 feetMean annual precipitation: 37 to 45 inchesMean annual air temperature: 45 to 57 degrees FFrost-free period: 155 to 205 daysFarmland classification: All areas are prime farmland
Map Unit CompositionHagerstown and similar soils: 85 percentMinor components: 15 percentEstimates are based on observations, descriptions, and transects of the mapunit.
Description of Hagerstown
SettingLandform: HillsLandform position (two-dimensional): Backslope, footslope, summitLandform position (three-dimensional): Side slope, interfluveDown-slope shape: Linear, concaveAcross-slope shape: Linear, concaveParent material: Clayey residuum weathered from limestone
Typical profileAp - 0 to 10 inches: silt loamBt1 - 10 to 21 inches: silty clay loamBt2 - 21 to 56 inches: silty clayC - 56 to 73 inches: silty clay loamR - 73 to 83 inches: bedrock
Properties and qualitiesSlope: 0 to 3 percentDepth to restrictive feature: 43 to 98 inches to lithic bedrockNatural drainage class: Well drainedRunoff class: LowCapacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately high to high
(0.60 to 2.00 in/hr)Depth to water table: More than 80 inchesFrequency of flooding: NoneFrequency of ponding: NoneSalinity, maximum in profile: Nonsaline (0.0 to 1.9 mmhos/cm)Available water storage in profile: Moderate (about 7.2 inches)
Interpretive groupsLand capability classification (irrigated): None specifiedLand capability classification (nonirrigated): 1Hydrologic Soil Group: B
Minor Components
OpequonPercent of map unit: 5 percent
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Landform: RidgesLandform position (two-dimensional): Shoulder, summitLandform position (three-dimensional): Side slope, crestDown-slope shape: Linear, convexAcross-slope shape: Convex, linear
CarboPercent of map unit: 5 percentLandform: HillsLandform position (two-dimensional): Summit, backslope, shoulderLandform position (three-dimensional): Crest, side slopeDown-slope shape: Linear, convexAcross-slope shape: Linear, convex
NolinPercent of map unit: 3 percentLandform: SwalesLandform position (two-dimensional): ToeslopeLandform position (three-dimensional): Base slope, talfDown-slope shape: Linear, concaveAcross-slope shape: Linear, concave
FunkstownPercent of map unit: 2 percentLandform: Valley floorsLandform position (two-dimensional): ToeslopeLandform position (three-dimensional): Base slopeDown-slope shape: ConcaveAcross-slope shape: Concave, linear
HaB—Hagerstown silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes
Map Unit SettingNational map unit symbol: 2rc98Elevation: 600 to 1,750 feetMean annual precipitation: 37 to 45 inchesMean annual air temperature: 45 to 55 degrees FFrost-free period: 155 to 190 daysFarmland classification: All areas are prime farmland
Map Unit CompositionHagerstown and similar soils: 85 percentMinor components: 15 percentEstimates are based on observations, descriptions, and transects of the mapunit.
Description of Hagerstown
SettingLandform: HillsLandform position (two-dimensional): Backslope, footslope, summitLandform position (three-dimensional): Side slope, base slope, interfluve
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Down-slope shape: Linear, concaveAcross-slope shape: Linear, concaveParent material: Clayey residuum weathered from limestone
Typical profileAp - 0 to 10 inches: silt loamBt1 - 10 to 21 inches: silty clay loamBt2 - 21 to 56 inches: silty clayC - 56 to 73 inches: silty clay loamR - 73 to 83 inches: bedrock
Properties and qualitiesSlope: 3 to 8 percentDepth to restrictive feature: 43 to 98 inches to lithic bedrockNatural drainage class: Well drainedRunoff class: MediumCapacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately high to high
(0.60 to 2.00 in/hr)Depth to water table: More than 80 inchesFrequency of flooding: NoneFrequency of ponding: NoneAvailable water storage in profile: Moderate (about 8.7 inches)
Interpretive groupsLand capability classification (irrigated): None specifiedLand capability classification (nonirrigated): 2eHydrologic Soil Group: B
Minor Components
OpequonPercent of map unit: 5 percentLandform: RidgesLandform position (two-dimensional): Shoulder, summitLandform position (three-dimensional): Side slope, crestDown-slope shape: Linear, convexAcross-slope shape: Convex, linear
CarboPercent of map unit: 5 percentLandform: HillsLandform position (two-dimensional): Summit, backslope, shoulderLandform position (three-dimensional): Side slope, crestDown-slope shape: Linear, convexAcross-slope shape: Linear, convex
FunkstownPercent of map unit: 3 percentLandform: Valley floorsLandform position (two-dimensional): ToeslopeLandform position (three-dimensional): Base slopeDown-slope shape: ConcaveAcross-slope shape: Concave, linear
TimbervillePercent of map unit: 2 percentLandform: HillsLandform position (two-dimensional): Footslope
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Landform position (three-dimensional): Head slope, base slopeDown-slope shape: Concave, linearAcross-slope shape: Convex, concave, linear
HaC—Hagerstown silt loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes
Map Unit SettingNational map unit symbol: 2tb03Elevation: 600 to 1,750 feetMean annual precipitation: 32 to 45 inchesMean annual air temperature: 41 to 65 degrees FFrost-free period: 155 to 181 daysFarmland classification: Farmland of statewide importance
Map Unit CompositionHagerstown and similar soils: 85 percentMinor components: 15 percentEstimates are based on observations, descriptions, and transects of the mapunit.
Description of Hagerstown
SettingLandform: HillslopesLandform position (two-dimensional): Backslope, shoulderLandform position (three-dimensional): Side slopeDown-slope shape: Linear, convex, concaveAcross-slope shape: Linear, convexParent material: Clayey residuum weathered from limestone and dolomite
Typical profileAp - 0 to 8 inches: silt loamBt1 - 8 to 19 inches: silty clay loamBt2 - 19 to 54 inches: silty clayC - 54 to 71 inches: silty clay loamR - 71 to 81 inches: bedrock
Properties and qualitiesSlope: 8 to 15 percentDepth to restrictive feature: 43 to 98 inches to lithic bedrockNatural drainage class: Well drainedRunoff class: MediumCapacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately high to high
(0.60 to 2.00 in/hr)Depth to water table: More than 80 inchesFrequency of flooding: NoneFrequency of ponding: NoneSalinity, maximum in profile: Nonsaline (0.0 to 1.9 mmhos/cm)Available water storage in profile: Moderate (about 7.0 inches)
Interpretive groupsLand capability classification (irrigated): None specified
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Land capability classification (nonirrigated): 3eHydrologic Soil Group: B
Minor Components
CarboPercent of map unit: 8 percentLandform: HillsLandform position (two-dimensional): Summit, backslope, shoulderLandform position (three-dimensional): Crest, side slopeDown-slope shape: Linear, convexAcross-slope shape: Linear, convex
OpequonPercent of map unit: 5 percentLandform: RidgesLandform position (two-dimensional): Shoulder, summitLandform position (three-dimensional): Side slope, crestDown-slope shape: Linear, convexAcross-slope shape: Convex, linear
ClarksburgPercent of map unit: 2 percentLandform: HillslopesLandform position (two-dimensional): FootslopeLandform position (three-dimensional): Base slope, head slopeDown-slope shape: LinearAcross-slope shape: Concave
HbB—Hagerstown silty clay loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes, very rocky
Map Unit SettingNational map unit symbol: ky1xElevation: 300 to 1,500 feetMean annual precipitation: 30 to 45 inchesMean annual air temperature: 45 to 57 degrees FFrost-free period: 125 to 220 daysFarmland classification: Farmland of statewide importance
Map Unit CompositionHagerstown and similar soils: 85 percentMinor components: 15 percentEstimates are based on observations, descriptions, and transects of the mapunit.
Description of Hagerstown
SettingParent material: Clayey residuum weathered from limestone, unspecified
Typical profileH1 - 0 to 7 inches: silty clay loam
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Properties and qualitiesSlope: 3 to 8 percentDepth to restrictive feature: 60 to 99 inches to lithic bedrockNatural drainage class: Well drainedRunoff class: MediumCapacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately high to high
(0.57 to 1.98 in/hr)Depth to water table: More than 80 inchesFrequency of flooding: NoneFrequency of ponding: NoneAvailable water storage in profile: Very low (about 1.4 inches)
Interpretive groupsLand capability classification (irrigated): None specifiedLand capability classification (nonirrigated): 3eHydrologic Soil Group: B
Minor Components
OpequonPercent of map unit: 10 percent
SwanpondPercent of map unit: 3 percent
FunkstownPercent of map unit: 2 percent
HcB—Hagerstown-Rock outcrop complex, 3 to 8 percent slopes
Map Unit SettingNational map unit symbol: ky23Elevation: 300 to 4,000 feetMean annual precipitation: 8 to 45 inchesMean annual air temperature: 45 to 57 degrees FFrost-free period: 110 to 220 daysFarmland classification: Not prime farmland
Map Unit CompositionHagerstown and similar soils: 70 percentRock outcrop: 15 percentMinor components: 15 percentEstimates are based on observations, descriptions, and transects of the mapunit.
Description of Hagerstown
SettingParent material: Clayey residuum weathered from limestone, unspecified
Typical profileH1 - 0 to 5 inches: silty clay loam
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Properties and qualitiesSlope: 3 to 8 percentDepth to restrictive feature: 60 to 99 inches to lithic bedrockNatural drainage class: Well drainedRunoff class: MediumCapacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately high to high
(0.57 to 1.98 in/hr)Depth to water table: More than 80 inchesFrequency of flooding: NoneFrequency of ponding: NoneAvailable water storage in profile: Very low (about 1.0 inches)
Interpretive groupsLand capability classification (irrigated): None specifiedLand capability classification (nonirrigated): 6sHydrologic Soil Group: B
Description of Rock Outcrop
Typical profileH1 - 0 to 60 inches: unweathered bedrock
Properties and qualitiesSlope: 3 to 8 percentDepth to restrictive feature: 0 inches to lithic bedrockRunoff class: LowCapacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately low to high
(0.06 to 5.95 in/hr)
Interpretive groupsLand capability classification (irrigated): None specifiedLand capability classification (nonirrigated): 8sHydrologic Soil Group: D
Minor Components
OpequonPercent of map unit: 10 percent
SwanpondPercent of map unit: 5 percent
Ln—Lindside silt loam
Map Unit SettingNational map unit symbol: ky5hElevation: 200 to 1,500 feetMean annual precipitation: 36 to 50 inchesMean annual air temperature: 45 to 55 degrees FFrost-free period: 120 to 180 days
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Farmland classification: Prime farmland if protected from flooding or not frequentlyflooded during the growing season
Map Unit CompositionLindside and similar soils: 85 percentMinor components: 15 percentEstimates are based on observations, descriptions, and transects of the mapunit.
Description of Lindside
SettingLandform: Flood plainsDown-slope shape: LinearAcross-slope shape: LinearParent material: Loamy alluvium derived from limestone-sandstone-shale
Typical profileAp - 0 to 13 inches: silt loamBw1 - 2 - 13 to 40 inches: silt loamBg 1 - 2 - 40 to 66 inches: silt loamBg3 - 66 to 73 inches: gravelly sandy clay loam
Properties and qualitiesSlope: 0 to 3 percentDepth to restrictive feature: More than 80 inchesNatural drainage class: Moderately well drainedRunoff class: LowCapacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately high to high
(0.20 to 1.98 in/hr)Depth to water table: About 18 to 36 inchesFrequency of flooding: FrequentFrequency of ponding: NoneAvailable water storage in profile: Very high (about 12.4 inches)
Interpretive groupsLand capability classification (irrigated): None specifiedLand capability classification (nonirrigated): 2wHydrologic Soil Group: C
Minor Components
ComusPercent of map unit: 10 percentLandform: Flood plainsLandform position (two-dimensional): FootslopeDown-slope shape: LinearAcross-slope shape: Linear
MelvinPercent of map unit: 5 percentLandform: Flood plainsDown-slope shape: LinearAcross-slope shape: Linear
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Me—Melvin silt loam
Map Unit SettingNational map unit symbol: ky6bElevation: 300 to 1,500 feetMean annual precipitation: 31 to 50 inchesMean annual air temperature: 45 to 59 degrees FFrost-free period: 125 to 220 daysFarmland classification: Not prime farmland
Map Unit CompositionMelvin and similar soils: 85 percentMinor components: 15 percentEstimates are based on observations, descriptions, and transects of the mapunit.
Description of Melvin
SettingLandform: Flood plainsParent material: Loamy alluvium derived from limestone-sandstone-shale
Typical profileH1 - 0 to 8 inches: silt loam
Properties and qualitiesSlope: 0 to 3 percentDepth to restrictive feature: More than 80 inchesNatural drainage class: Poorly drainedRunoff class: Very highCapacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately high to high
(0.57 to 1.98 in/hr)Depth to water table: About 0 to 12 inchesFrequency of flooding: FrequentFrequency of ponding: NoneAvailable water storage in profile: Very low (about 1.7 inches)
Interpretive groupsLand capability classification (irrigated): None specifiedLand capability classification (nonirrigated): 3wHydrologic Soil Group: B/D
Minor Components
LindsidePercent of map unit: 5 percent
CombsPercent of map unit: 5 percent
LappansPercent of map unit: 5 percent
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SpA—Swanpond silt loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes
Map Unit SettingNational map unit symbol: kyclElevation: 300 to 1,500 feetMean annual precipitation: 31 to 45 inchesMean annual air temperature: 45 to 57 degrees FFrost-free period: 125 to 220 daysFarmland classification: All areas are prime farmland
Map Unit CompositionSwanpond and similar soils: 85 percentMinor components: 15 percentEstimates are based on observations, descriptions, and transects of the mapunit.
Description of Swanpond
SettingParent material: Clayey residuum weathered from limestone, unspecified
Typical profileH1 - 0 to 8 inches: silt loam
Properties and qualitiesSlope: 0 to 3 percentDepth to restrictive feature: More than 80 inchesNatural drainage class: Moderately well drainedRunoff class: MediumCapacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately low to
moderately high (0.06 to 0.20 in/hr)Depth to water table: About 30 to 42 inchesFrequency of flooding: NoneFrequency of ponding: NoneAvailable water storage in profile: Very low (about 1.3 inches)
Interpretive groupsLand capability classification (irrigated): None specifiedLand capability classification (nonirrigated): 2wHydrologic Soil Group: D
Minor Components
HagerstownPercent of map unit: 10 percent
FunkstownPercent of map unit: 3 percent
OpequonPercent of map unit: 2 percent
Custom Soil Resource Report
26
SsA—Swanpond-Funkstown silt loams, 0 to 3 percent slopes
Map Unit SettingNational map unit symbol: kycqElevation: 300 to 1,500 feetMean annual precipitation: 31 to 45 inchesMean annual air temperature: 45 to 57 degrees FFrost-free period: 125 to 220 daysFarmland classification: Prime farmland if protected from flooding or not frequently
flooded during the growing season
Map Unit CompositionSwanpond and similar soils: 60 percentFunkstown and similar soils: 35 percentMinor components: 5 percentEstimates are based on observations, descriptions, and transects of the mapunit.
Description of Swanpond
SettingParent material: Clayey residuum weathered from limestone, unspecified
Typical profileH1 - 0 to 7 inches: silt loam
Properties and qualitiesSlope: 0 to 3 percentDepth to restrictive feature: More than 80 inchesNatural drainage class: Moderately well drainedRunoff class: MediumCapacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately low to
moderately high (0.06 to 0.20 in/hr)Depth to water table: About 30 to 42 inchesFrequency of flooding: NoneFrequency of ponding: NoneAvailable water storage in profile: Very low (about 1.2 inches)
Interpretive groupsLand capability classification (irrigated): None specifiedLand capability classification (nonirrigated): 2wHydrologic Soil Group: D
Description of Funkstown
Typical profileH1 - 0 to 12 inches: silt loam
Properties and qualitiesSlope: 0 to 3 percentDepth to restrictive feature: More than 80 inchesNatural drainage class: Moderately well drained
Custom Soil Resource Report
27
Runoff class: LowCapacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately high to high
(0.57 to 1.98 in/hr)Depth to water table: About 24 to 42 inchesFrequency of flooding: FrequentFrequency of ponding: NoneAvailable water storage in profile: Very low (about 2.2 inches)
Interpretive groupsLand capability classification (irrigated): None specifiedLand capability classification (nonirrigated): 2wHydrologic Soil Group: C
Minor Components
HagerstownPercent of map unit: 5 percent
Custom Soil Resource Report
28
ReferencesAmerican Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). 2004.Standard specifications for transportation materials and methods of sampling andtesting. 24th edition.
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). 2005. Standard classification ofsoils for engineering purposes. ASTM Standard D2487-00.
Cowardin, L.M., V. Carter, F.C. Golet, and E.T. LaRoe. 1979. Classification ofwetlands and deep-water habitats of the United States. U.S. Fish and Wildlife ServiceFWS/OBS-79/31.
Federal Register. July 13, 1994. Changes in hydric soils of the United States.
Federal Register. September 18, 2002. Hydric soils of the United States.
Hurt, G.W., and L.M. Vasilas, editors. Version 6.0, 2006. Field indicators of hydric soilsin the United States.
National Research Council. 1995. Wetlands: Characteristics and boundaries.
Soil Survey Division Staff. 1993. Soil survey manual. Soil Conservation Service. U.S.Department of Agriculture Handbook 18. http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/soils/?cid=nrcs142p2_054262
Soil Survey Staff. 1999. Soil taxonomy: A basic system of soil classification for makingand interpreting soil surveys. 2nd edition. Natural Resources Conservation Service,U.S. Department of Agriculture Handbook 436. http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/soils/?cid=nrcs142p2_053577
Soil Survey Staff. 2010. Keys to soil taxonomy. 11th edition. U.S. Department ofAgriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/soils/?cid=nrcs142p2_053580
Tiner, R.W., Jr. 1985. Wetlands of Delaware. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service andDelaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, WetlandsSection.
United States Army Corps of Engineers, Environmental Laboratory. 1987. Corps ofEngineers wetlands delineation manual. Waterways Experiment Station TechnicalReport Y-87-1.
United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service.National forestry manual. http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/soils/home/?cid=nrcs142p2_053374
United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service.National range and pasture handbook. http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/landuse/rangepasture/?cid=stelprdb1043084
29
United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service.National soil survey handbook, title 430-VI. http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/soils/scientists/?cid=nrcs142p2_054242
United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service.2006. Land resource regions and major land resource areas of the United States, theCaribbean, and the Pacific Basin. U.S. Department of Agriculture Handbook 296.http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/soils/?cid=nrcs142p2_053624
United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service. 1961. Landcapability classification. U.S. Department of Agriculture Handbook 210. http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/nrcs142p2_052290.pdf
Custom Soil Resource Report
30
APPENDIX 3
SITE PHOTOGRAPHS
PROJECT NO. 03-15-0656 Page 1 of 6
DATE: December 16, 2015 and April 26, 2016
CLIENT: Mason Dixon Solar, LLC
PROJECT NAME: Mason Dixon Solar Center 17939 Mason Dixon Road Hagerstown, Maryland 21740
Photograph # 1
View looking east from the railway of the central portion of the Site.
Photograph # 2
View of an UNT to Toms Run located along the railway in the central portion of the Site.
PROJECT NO. 03-15-0656 Page 2 of 6
DATE: December 16, 2015 and April 26, 2016
CLIENT: Mason Dixon Solar, LLC
PROJECT NAME: Mason Dixon Solar Center 17939 Mason Dixon Road Hagerstown, Maryland 21740
Photograph # 3
View of a ford crossing of the UNT to Toms Run in the eastern portion of the Site.
Photograph # 4
View of the box culvert beneath the railway in the central portion of the site.
PROJECT NO. 03-15-0656 Page 3 of 6
DATE: December 16, 2015 and April 26, 2016
CLIENT: Mason Dixon Solar, LLC
PROJECT NAME: Mason Dixon Solar Center 17939 Mason Dixon Road Hagerstown, Maryland 21740
Photograph # 5
View of the UNT to Toms Run in the eastern portion of the Site.
Photograph # 6
View of the UNT to Toms Run entering the Site in the eastern portion of the Site.
PROJECT NO. 03-15-0656 Page 4 of 6
DATE: December 16, 2015 and April 26, 2016
CLIENT: Mason Dixon Solar, LLC
PROJECT NAME: Mason Dixon Solar Center 17939 Mason Dixon Road Hagerstown, Maryland 21740
Photograph # 7
View of the UNT to Toms Run from Daley Road looking east towards the railway.
Photograph # 8
View of the UNT to Toms Run from Daley Road looking west.
PROJECT NO. 03-15-0656 Page 5 of 6
DATE: December 16, 2015 and April 26, 2016
CLIENT: Mason Dixon Solar, LLC
PROJECT NAME: Mason Dixon Solar Center 17939 Mason Dixon Road Hagerstown, Maryland 21740
Photograph # 9
View of the UNT to Toms Run looking southeast towards Daley Road.
Photograph # 10
View looking north at where the other UNT to Toms Run extends onto the western portion of the Site.
PROJECT NO. 03-15-0656 Page 6 of 6
DATE: December 16, 2015 and April 26, 2016
CLIENT: Mason Dixon Solar, LLC
PROJECT NAME: Mason Dixon Solar Center 17939 Mason Dixon Road Hagerstown, Maryland 21740
Photograph # 11
View of the culvert crossing of the other UNT to Toms Run in the western portion of the Site.
Photograph # 12
View of the other UNT to Toms Run in the western portion of the Site.
APPENDIX 4
WETLAND/WATERWAY DELINEATION PLAN
MASON DIXON ROAD
(PA ROUTE 163)
UNNAMED TRIBUTARYTO TOMS RUN
OFF-SITEFARM COMPLEX
IN
T
E
R
S
T
A
T
E
8
1
RESIDENTIAL USE
RESIDENTIAL USE
RESIDENTIAL USE
AGRICULTURALUSE
AGRICULTURALUSE
AGRICULTURALUSE
CULTIVATED FIELD
CULTIVATED FIELD
EX. FORD CROSSING
APPROX. SITE BOUNDARY
APPR
OX.
SIT
E BO
UN
DAR
Y
D
A
L
E
Y
R
O
A
D
G
R
E
E
N
M
O
U
N
T
R
O
A
D
M
A
U
G
A
N
S
V
IL
L
E
R
O
A
D
APPR
OX.
SIT
E BO
UN
DAR
Y
NORFOLKSOUTHERNRAILWAY
SITE
P/O MAP 10 PARCEL142LOWELL & LUELLA EBY
SEE FIGURE 3
SITEP/O TAX MAP 10
PARCEL 682003 MASON DIXON, LLC
PROPERTYAPPROX.
SITE BOUNDARY
MANUREPIT
GRAVELDRIVE
CA
DD
FIL
E:
DA
TE:
SC
ALE
:
JOB
NO
:
TRIAD
JOB NO.:
SHEET NUMBER:
OFF
ICE
LO
CA
TIO
NS
MA
RY
LAN
D ○
PE
NN
SY
LVA
NIA
○ V
IRG
INIA
○ W
ES
T V
IRG
INIA
DR
AW
N B
Y:
CH
EC
KE
D B
Y:
FILE NO.:
03-1
5-06
56
03-1
5-06
39
PM
U
6/7/
2016
TJK
NTS
FIG-203-12-0522ENV-FIG2
MA
SO
N D
IXO
N S
OLA
R C
EN
TE
R
SIT
E D
IAG
RA
M
PROJ. NO.: 03-15-0656
PR
OJ.
NO
.:03
-12-
0656
ALL FEATURES AREAPPROXIMATE AND ARE FORILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES ONLY.
UNNAMED TRIBUTARYTO TOMS RUN
GRAVEL DRIVE
NORFOLKSOUTHERNRAILWAY
AGRICULTURALUSE
CULTIVATED FIELD
D
A
LE
Y R
O
A
D
APPR
OX.
SIT
E BO
UN
DAR
Y
CULTIVATED FIELD
CULTIVATED FIELD
AGRICULTURALUSE
AGRICULTURALUSE
AGRICULTURALUSE
RESIDENTIAL USE
RESIDENTIAL USE
COLUMBIA GASCOMPRESSOR
STATION
RESIDENTIALFARM COMPLEX
GRAVEL DRIVE
PASTURE
PASTURE
CULTIVATED FIELD
CULTIVATED FIELD
CULTIVATED FIELD
RESIDENTIAL USE
RESIDENTIAL USE
RESIDENTIAL USE
RESIDENTIAL USE
RESIDENTIAL USE
RESIDENTIAL USE
RESIDENTIAL USE
RESIDENTIAL USE
RESIDENTIAL USE
RESIDENTIAL USE
CULVERTCROSSING
APPROX. PROPERTY BOUNDARY
APPROX. SITE BOUNDARY
AP
PR
OX
. PR
OP
ER
TY B
OU
ND
AR
Y
G
R
E
E
N
C
A
S
T
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E
P
I
K
E
UNNAMED TRIBUTARYTO TOMS RUN
BARNAND
SHED
SITE
P/O MAP 10 PARCEL142LOWELL & LUELLA EBY
±138.71 ACRES
MASON DIXON
SOLAR CENTER
PROJECT SITE
SEE FIGURE 2
MANURE PIT
UNNAMED TRIBUTARYTO TOMS RUN
APPROX. SITE BOUNDARY
APPROX. SITE BOUNDARY
APPROX. SITE BOUNDARY
APPR
OX.
SIT
E BO
UN
DAR
Y
CA
DD
FIL
E:
DA
TE:
SC
ALE
:
JOB
NO
:
TRIAD
JOB NO.:
SHEET NUMBER:
OFF
ICE
LO
CA
TIO
NS
MA
RY
LAN
D ○
PE
NN
SY
LVA
NIA
○ V
IRG
INIA
○ W
ES
T V
IRG
INIA
DR
AW
N B
Y:
CH
EC
KE
D B
Y:
FILE NO.:
03-1
5-06
56
03-1
5-06
39
PM
U
6/7/
16
TJK
NTS
FIG-303-12-0522ENV-FIG3
MA
SO
N D
IXO
N S
OLA
R C
EN
TE
R
SIT
E D
IAG
RA
M
PROJ. NO.: 03-15-0656
PR
OJ.
NO
.:03
-12-
0656
ALL FEATURES AREAPPROXIMATE AND ARE FORILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES ONLY.
APPENDIX B
DNR Wildlife and Heritage Service Correspondence for Interconnection
May 2, 2016 Ms. Lori Byrne Department of Natural Resources Wildlife & Heritage Service 580 Taylor Avenue Tawes Office Bldg E-1 Annapolis, Maryland 21401 RE: Environmental Review Request
Easement Lands for Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC Lowell and Luella Eby Property (Tax Map 10, Parcel 142) 14611 Greencastle Pike Hagerstown, Washington County, Maryland Triad Project No. 03-15-0656
Dear Ms. Byrne:
Triad Engineering, Inc. (Triad) is requesting an environmental review for the above-referenced property. As part of this, we respectfully request any information your agency maintains with respect to Federal or State rare, threatened, and/or endangered species at this property. In addition, we are requesting a written response outlining any and all regulatory requirements that your agency would anticipate in relation to the construction of an overhead or underground electrical utility line at this property.
Project Description, Purpose, and Need
The approximate 139-acre site (Tax Map 10, Parcel 142) is located between the eastern side of Greencastle Pike (Maryland Route 63) and along the eastern and western sides of Daley Road in Washington County, Maryland. The site is addressed as 14611 Greencastle Pike, Hagerstown, Maryland 21740. The approximate center of the site is located at approximately 39° 42' 57.83" N Latitude and 77° 45' 41.54" W Longitude (WGS-84). The Alexandria Drafting Company (ADC) Washington County, Maryland Street Map Book, page and grid coordinate for the project site are 9 and H-4, respectively. The project site primarily consists of agricultural fields with a residential farm complex located in the western portion of the site. The site location and extent are more clearly shown on the attached figures.
The project will consist of an overhead or underground electric utility line that will extend from the previously reviewed Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC property to an existing overhead electric line located along Greencastle Pike, which will serve as the interconnection point for the
Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC utility scale solar project. The Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC property was previously reviewed by your office in December 2015. According to your response, dated December 24, 2015, no State or Federal records for rare, threatened, or endangered species were identified in association with Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC property. This request is for the adjoining property which will be affected by the electric transmission line, which will connect the Mason Dixon Solar Center to the electrical grid.
Proposed Easement Lands for Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC – Environmental Review Request RE: Triad Project No. 03-15-0656 May 2, 2016 Page 2 There is no known federal or state funding associated with this project. It will require a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) from the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC). It will also require coverage under the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) General NPDES stormwater permit for construction activities over one acre. Finally it is anticipated that the project will require local entrance, building, and grading permits from Washington County, Maryland.
In closing, we hope that we have provided adequate information for you to perform your review. If you have any questions or require any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
TRIAD ENGINEERING, INC.
Timothy J. Kellerman Senior Environmental Scientist
Att.: Figure 1 – Aerial Photograph Exhibit
Figure 2 – USGS Exhibit
Easement Lands for MasonDixon Solar Center, LLC Lowell and Luella Eby Property (TM 10, Parcel 142) 14611 Greencastle Pike Hagerstown, Washington County, Maryland
Triad Project No. 03-15-0656
Legend Easement: Eby Property
2000 ft
N
➤➤
N
Easement Lands for MasonDixon Solar Center, LLC Lowell and Luella Eby Property (TM 10, Parcel 142) 14611 Greencastle Pike Hagerstown, Washington County, Maryland
Triad Project No. 03-15-0656
Legend Easement: Eby Property
2000 ft
N
➤➤
N
APPENDIX C
PJM and FE Studies
Generation Interconnection
System Impact Study Report
For
PJM Generation Interconnection Request
Queue Position AB1-123
Showalter 34.5 kV
( Revised )
October 2016
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 2 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Preface The intent of the System Impact Study is to determine a plan, with approximate cost and
construction time estimates, to connect the subject generation interconnection project to the PJM
network at a location specified by the Interconnection Customer. As a requirement for
interconnection, the Interconnection Customer may be responsible for the cost of constructing:
Network Upgrades, which are facility additions, or upgrades to existing facilities, that are needed
to maintain the reliability of the PJM system. All facilities required for interconnection of a
generation interconnection project must be designed to meet the technical specifications (on PJM
web site) for the appropriate transmission owner.
In some instances an Interconnection Customer may not be responsible for 100% of the
identified network upgrade cost because other transmission network uses, e.g. another generation
interconnection or merchant transmission upgrade, may also contribute to the need for the same
network reinforcement. The possibility of sharing the reinforcement costs with other projects
may be identified in the Feasibility Study, but the actual allocation will be deferred until the
System Impact Study is performed.
The System Impact Study estimates do not include the feasibility, cost, or time required to obtain
property rights and permits for construction of the required facilities. The project developer is
responsible for the right of way, real estate, and construction permit issues. For properties
currently owned by Transmission Owners, the costs may be included in the study.
General Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC (“Interconnection Customer”) has proposed a solar generating
facility located at 17939 Mason Dixon Rd, Hagerstown, Washington County, MD. The installed
facilities will have a total capability of 18.4 MW with 7.0 MW of this output being recognized
by PJM as capacity. The proposed in-service date for this project is July 1, 2017. This study
does not imply a Potomac Edison (“Transmission Owner”) commitment to this in-service
date.
Point of Interconnection
AB1-123 will interconnect with the Potomac Edison transmission system by tapping the Halfway
– Milnor 34.5 kV line. Please refer to the one-line diagram in Appendix 2 for system
configuration.
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 3 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Cost Summary
Interconnected Transmission Owner facilities and network upgrades as well as related costs
estimates required for this interconnection project are listed below.
(a.) Attachment Facilities:
Regional Line estimate. Include Metering package 6,040 ft of new 34.5 kV line.
- Estimated total time to complete: 13 Months
- Estimated total costs w/o. tax: $ 411,500 (Tax included: $ 521,400)
- Network Upgrade Number: not required
(b.) Direct Connection Network Upgrades:
(b.1) AB1-123 Interconnection - install a tapped substation on the Halfway -
Milnor 34.5 kV line with a breaker to the Mason Dixon Solar Center.
- Estimated total time to complete: 13 Months
- Estimated total costs w/o. tax: $ 1,351,900 (Tax included: $ 1,713,000)
- Network Upgrade Number: To be determined at a later study stage.
(b.2) Adjust Remote Relay and Metering Settings.
- Estimated total time to complete: 13 Months
- Estimated total costs w/o. tax: $ 12,500 (Tax included: $ 15,900)
- Network Upgrade Number: To be determined at a later study stage.
(c.) Non-Direct Connection Network Upgrades: $ 0.0
(d.) Direct Connection Local Upgrades: $ 0.0
(e.) Non-Direct Connection Local Upgrades: $ 0.0
(f.) Contributions for Previously Identified Upgrades: $ 0.0
(g.) Baseline Upgrades: $ 0.0
(h.) Option to Build Upgrades: $ 0.0
Total costs (a.) to (h.) without Tax: $ 1,775,900 (Tax included: $ 2,250,300)
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 4 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Interconnection Customer Requirements In addition to the Potomac Edison facilities, Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC will also be
responsible for meeting all criteria as specified in the applicable sections of the FirstEnergy
“Requirements for Transmission Connected Facilities" document including:
1. The purchase and installation of fully rated interrupting device on the high side of the (AB1-
123) step-up transformer.
2. The purchase and installation of the minimum required FirstEnergy generation
interconnection relaying and control facilities. This includes over/under voltage protection,
over/under frequency protection, and zero sequence voltage protection relays.
3. The purchase and installation of supervisory control and data acquisition (“SCADA”)
equipment to provide information in a compatible format to the FirstEnergy Transmission
System Control Center.
4. The establishment of dedicated communication circuits for SCADA to the FirstEnergy
Transmission System Control Center.
5. A compliance with the FirstEnergy and PJM generator power factor and voltage control
requirements.
6. The execution of a back-up retail service agreement with the electric distribution company to
serve the customer load supplied from the (AB1-123) generation project interconnection point
when the units are out-of-service.
The above requirements are in addition to any metering or other requirements imposed by PJM.
Revenue Metering and SCADA Requirements
PJM Requirements
The Interconnection Customer will be required to install equipment necessary to provide
Revenue Metering (KWH, KVARH) and real time data (KW, KVAR) for Interconnection
Customer’s generating Resource. See PJM Manuals M-01 and M-14D, and PJM Tariff Sections
24.1 and 24.2.
Interconnected Transmission Owner Requirements
The Interconnection Customer will be required to comply with all FirstEnergy Revenue Metering
Requirements for Generation Interconnection Customers. The Revenue Metering Requirements
may be found within the “FirstEnergy Requirements for Transmission Connected Facilities”
document located at the following links:
http://www.firstenergycorp.com/feconnect
http://www.pjm.com/planning/design-engineering/to-tech-standards.aspx
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 5 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Schedule Based on the scope of Attachment Facilities and Network Upgrades required to support the this
generation project, it is expected to take a minimum of thirteen (13) months from the date of a
fully executed Interconnection Construction Service Agreement to complete the installation. It
also assumes that Interconnection Customer will provide all rights-of-way, permits, easements,
etc. that will be needed. A further assumption is that there will be no environmental issues with
any of the new properties associated with this project, that there will be no delays in acquiring
the necessary permits for implementing the defined Direct and Non-Direct Network upgrades,
and that all system outages will be allowed when requested.
Other Supporting Facilities Charge Subject to any required regulatory approvals or acceptance, the IC shall pay to PE a monthly
charge of $27,378 for the connection of the customer facility to the PJM transmission system via
the distribution system. The monthly charge will be part of Attachment H of the PJM OATT for
this specific interconnection. Such charge may be billed to, and collected from the IC on behalf
of PE by PJM and may be adjusted from time to time in accordance with Applicable Laws and
Regulations.
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 6 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Network Impacts The Queue Project AB1-123 was evaluated as a 18.4 MW (Capacity 7.0 MW) injection into the
Halfway 34.5 kV substation in the APS area. Project AB1-123 was evaluated for compliance
with applicable reliability planning criteria (PJM, NERC, NERC Regional Reliability Councils,
and Transmission Owners). Project AB1-123 was studied with a commercial probability of
100%. Potential network impacts were as follows:
Summer Peak Analysis - 2019
Generator Deliverability
(Single or N-1 contingencies for the Capacity portion only of the interconnection)
None
Multiple Facility Contingency
(Double Circuit Tower Line, Fault with a Stuck Breaker, and Bus Fault contingencies for the full
energy output)
None
Contribution to Previously Identified Overloads
(This project contributes to the following contingency overloads, i.e. "Network Impacts",
identified for earlier generation or transmission interconnection projects in the PJM Queue)
None
Steady-State Voltage Requirements
(Results of the steady-state voltage studies should be inserted here)
None
Short Circuit
(Summary of impacted circuit breakers)
No overdutied breakers found.
Delivery of Energy Portion of Interconnection Request
PJM also studied the delivery of the energy portion of this interconnection request. Any
problems identified below are likely to result in operational restrictions to the project under
study. The developer can proceed with network upgrades to eliminate the operational restriction
at their discretion by submitting a Merchant Transmission Interconnection request.
Only the most severely overloaded conditions are listed. There is no guarantee of full delivery of
energy for this project by fixing only the conditions listed in this section. With a Transmission
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 7 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Interconnection Request, a subsequent analysis will be performed, which will study all overload
conditions associated with the overloaded element(s) identified.
None
Light Load Analysis - 2019
Not required.
System Reinforcements
Short Circuit
None
Stability and Reactive Power Requirement
None
Summer Peak Load Flow Analysis Reinforcements
New System Reinforcements
(Upgrades required to mitigate reliability criteria violations, i.e. Network Impacts, initially
caused by the addition of this project generation)
None
Contribution to Previously Identified System Reinforcements
(Overloads initially caused by prior Queue positions with additional contribution to overloading
by this project. This project may have a % allocation cost responsibility which will be calculated
and reported for the Impact Study)
None
Light Load Load Flow Analysis Reinforcements
New System Reinforcements
(Upgrades required to mitigate reliability criteria violations, i.e. Network Impacts, initially
caused by the addition of this project generation)
None
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 8 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Contribution to Previously Identified System Reinforcements
(Overloads initially caused by prior Queue positions with additional contribution to overloading
by this project. This project may have a % allocation cost responsibility which will be calculated
and reported for the Impact Study)
None
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 9 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Appendix 1
Facility Location
PJM Queue Position: AB1-123
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 10 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Appendix 2
Interconnection One-Line Diagram
PJM Queue Position: AB1-123
Generation Interconnection
System Impact Study Report
For
PJM Generation Interconnection Request
Queue Position AB1-123
Showalter 34.5 kV
( Revised )
October 2016
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 2 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Preface The intent of the System Impact Study is to determine a plan, with approximate cost and
construction time estimates, to connect the subject generation interconnection project to the PJM
network at a location specified by the Interconnection Customer. As a requirement for
interconnection, the Interconnection Customer may be responsible for the cost of constructing:
Network Upgrades, which are facility additions, or upgrades to existing facilities, that are needed
to maintain the reliability of the PJM system. All facilities required for interconnection of a
generation interconnection project must be designed to meet the technical specifications (on PJM
web site) for the appropriate transmission owner.
In some instances an Interconnection Customer may not be responsible for 100% of the
identified network upgrade cost because other transmission network uses, e.g. another generation
interconnection or merchant transmission upgrade, may also contribute to the need for the same
network reinforcement. The possibility of sharing the reinforcement costs with other projects
may be identified in the Feasibility Study, but the actual allocation will be deferred until the
System Impact Study is performed.
The System Impact Study estimates do not include the feasibility, cost, or time required to obtain
property rights and permits for construction of the required facilities. The project developer is
responsible for the right of way, real estate, and construction permit issues. For properties
currently owned by Transmission Owners, the costs may be included in the study.
General Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC (“Interconnection Customer”) has proposed a solar generating
facility located at 17939 Mason Dixon Rd, Hagerstown, Washington County, MD. The installed
facilities will have a total capability of 18.4 MW with 7.0 MW of this output being recognized
by PJM as capacity. The proposed in-service date for this project is July 1, 2017. This study
does not imply a Potomac Edison (“Transmission Owner”) commitment to this in-service
date.
Point of Interconnection
AB1-123 will interconnect with the Potomac Edison transmission system by tapping the Halfway
– Milnor 34.5 kV line. Please refer to the one-line diagram in Appendix 2 for system
configuration.
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 3 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Cost Summary
Interconnected Transmission Owner facilities and network upgrades as well as related costs
estimates required for this interconnection project are listed below.
(a.) Attachment Facilities:
Regional Line estimate. Include Metering package 6,040 ft of new 34.5 kV line.
- Estimated total time to complete: 13 Months
- Estimated total costs w/o. tax: $ 411,500 (Tax included: $ 521,400)
- Network Upgrade Number: not required
(b.) Direct Connection Network Upgrades:
(b.1) AB1-123 Interconnection - install a tapped substation on the Halfway -
Milnor 34.5 kV line with a breaker to the Mason Dixon Solar Center.
- Estimated total time to complete: 13 Months
- Estimated total costs w/o. tax: $ 1,351,900 (Tax included: $ 1,713,000)
- Network Upgrade Number: To be determined at a later study stage.
(b.2) Adjust Remote Relay and Metering Settings.
- Estimated total time to complete: 13 Months
- Estimated total costs w/o. tax: $ 12,500 (Tax included: $ 15,900)
- Network Upgrade Number: To be determined at a later study stage.
(c.) Non-Direct Connection Network Upgrades: $ 0.0
(d.) Direct Connection Local Upgrades: $ 0.0
(e.) Non-Direct Connection Local Upgrades: $ 0.0
(f.) Contributions for Previously Identified Upgrades: $ 0.0
(g.) Baseline Upgrades: $ 0.0
(h.) Option to Build Upgrades: $ 0.0
Total costs (a.) to (h.) without Tax: $ 1,775,900 (Tax included: $ 2,250,300)
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 4 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Interconnection Customer Requirements In addition to the Potomac Edison facilities, Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC will also be
responsible for meeting all criteria as specified in the applicable sections of the FirstEnergy
“Requirements for Transmission Connected Facilities" document including:
1. The purchase and installation of fully rated interrupting device on the high side of the (AB1-
123) step-up transformer.
2. The purchase and installation of the minimum required FirstEnergy generation
interconnection relaying and control facilities. This includes over/under voltage protection,
over/under frequency protection, and zero sequence voltage protection relays.
3. The purchase and installation of supervisory control and data acquisition (“SCADA”)
equipment to provide information in a compatible format to the FirstEnergy Transmission
System Control Center.
4. The establishment of dedicated communication circuits for SCADA to the FirstEnergy
Transmission System Control Center.
5. A compliance with the FirstEnergy and PJM generator power factor and voltage control
requirements.
6. The execution of a back-up retail service agreement with the electric distribution company to
serve the customer load supplied from the (AB1-123) generation project interconnection point
when the units are out-of-service.
The above requirements are in addition to any metering or other requirements imposed by PJM.
Revenue Metering and SCADA Requirements
PJM Requirements
The Interconnection Customer will be required to install equipment necessary to provide
Revenue Metering (KWH, KVARH) and real time data (KW, KVAR) for Interconnection
Customer’s generating Resource. See PJM Manuals M-01 and M-14D, and PJM Tariff Sections
24.1 and 24.2.
Interconnected Transmission Owner Requirements
The Interconnection Customer will be required to comply with all FirstEnergy Revenue Metering
Requirements for Generation Interconnection Customers. The Revenue Metering Requirements
may be found within the “FirstEnergy Requirements for Transmission Connected Facilities”
document located at the following links:
http://www.firstenergycorp.com/feconnect
http://www.pjm.com/planning/design-engineering/to-tech-standards.aspx
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 5 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Schedule Based on the scope of Attachment Facilities and Network Upgrades required to support the this
generation project, it is expected to take a minimum of thirteen (13) months from the date of a
fully executed Interconnection Construction Service Agreement to complete the installation. It
also assumes that Interconnection Customer will provide all rights-of-way, permits, easements,
etc. that will be needed. A further assumption is that there will be no environmental issues with
any of the new properties associated with this project, that there will be no delays in acquiring
the necessary permits for implementing the defined Direct and Non-Direct Network upgrades,
and that all system outages will be allowed when requested.
Other Supporting Facilities Charge Subject to any required regulatory approvals or acceptance, the IC shall pay to PE a monthly
charge of $22,482 for the connection of the customer facility to the PJM transmission system via
the distribution system. The monthly charge will be part of Attachment H of the PJM OATT for
this specific interconnection. Such charge may be billed to, and collected from the IC on behalf
of PE by PJM and may be adjusted from time to time in accordance with Applicable Laws and
Regulations.
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 6 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Network Impacts The Queue Project AB1-123 was evaluated as a 18.4 MW (Capacity 7.0 MW) injection into the
Halfway 34.5 kV substation in the APS area. Project AB1-123 was evaluated for compliance
with applicable reliability planning criteria (PJM, NERC, NERC Regional Reliability Councils,
and Transmission Owners). Project AB1-123 was studied with a commercial probability of
100%. Potential network impacts were as follows:
Summer Peak Analysis - 2019
Generator Deliverability
(Single or N-1 contingencies for the Capacity portion only of the interconnection)
None
Multiple Facility Contingency
(Double Circuit Tower Line, Fault with a Stuck Breaker, and Bus Fault contingencies for the full
energy output)
None
Contribution to Previously Identified Overloads
(This project contributes to the following contingency overloads, i.e. "Network Impacts",
identified for earlier generation or transmission interconnection projects in the PJM Queue)
None
Steady-State Voltage Requirements
(Results of the steady-state voltage studies should be inserted here)
None
Short Circuit
(Summary of impacted circuit breakers)
No overdutied breakers found.
Delivery of Energy Portion of Interconnection Request
PJM also studied the delivery of the energy portion of this interconnection request. Any
problems identified below are likely to result in operational restrictions to the project under
study. The developer can proceed with network upgrades to eliminate the operational restriction
at their discretion by submitting a Merchant Transmission Interconnection request.
Only the most severely overloaded conditions are listed. There is no guarantee of full delivery of
energy for this project by fixing only the conditions listed in this section. With a Transmission
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 7 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Interconnection Request, a subsequent analysis will be performed, which will study all overload
conditions associated with the overloaded element(s) identified.
None
Light Load Analysis - 2019
Not required.
System Reinforcements
Short Circuit
None
Stability and Reactive Power Requirement
None
Summer Peak Load Flow Analysis Reinforcements
New System Reinforcements
(Upgrades required to mitigate reliability criteria violations, i.e. Network Impacts, initially
caused by the addition of this project generation)
None
Contribution to Previously Identified System Reinforcements
(Overloads initially caused by prior Queue positions with additional contribution to overloading
by this project. This project may have a % allocation cost responsibility which will be calculated
and reported for the Impact Study)
None
Light Load Load Flow Analysis Reinforcements
New System Reinforcements
(Upgrades required to mitigate reliability criteria violations, i.e. Network Impacts, initially
caused by the addition of this project generation)
None
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 8 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Contribution to Previously Identified System Reinforcements
(Overloads initially caused by prior Queue positions with additional contribution to overloading
by this project. This project may have a % allocation cost responsibility which will be calculated
and reported for the Impact Study)
None
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 9 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Appendix 1
Facility Location
PJM Queue Position: AB1-123
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 10 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Appendix 2
Interconnection One-Line Diagram
PJM Queue Position: AB1-123
Generation Interconnection
System Impact Study Report
For
PJM Generation Interconnection Request
Queue Position AB1-123
Showalter 34.5 kV
September 2016
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 2 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Preface The intent of the System Impact Study is to determine a plan, with approximate cost and
construction time estimates, to connect the subject generation interconnection project to the PJM
network at a location specified by the Interconnection Customer. As a requirement for
interconnection, the Interconnection Customer may be responsible for the cost of constructing:
Network Upgrades, which are facility additions, or upgrades to existing facilities, that are needed
to maintain the reliability of the PJM system. All facilities required for interconnection of a
generation interconnection project must be designed to meet the technical specifications (on PJM
web site) for the appropriate transmission owner.
In some instances an Interconnection Customer may not be responsible for 100% of the
identified network upgrade cost because other transmission network uses, e.g. another generation
interconnection or merchant transmission upgrade, may also contribute to the need for the same
network reinforcement. The possibility of sharing the reinforcement costs with other projects
may be identified in the Feasibility Study, but the actual allocation will be deferred until the
System Impact Study is performed.
The System Impact Study estimates do not include the feasibility, cost, or time required to obtain
property rights and permits for construction of the required facilities. The project developer is
responsible for the right of way, real estate, and construction permit issues. For properties
currently owned by Transmission Owners, the costs may be included in the study.
General Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC (“Interconnection Customer”) has proposed a solar generating
facility located at 17939 Mason Dixon Rd, Hagerstown, Washington County, MD. The installed
facilities will have a total capability of 18.4 MW with 7.0 MW of this output being recognized
by PJM as capacity. The proposed in-service date for this project is July 1, 2017. This study
does not imply a Potomac Edison (“Transmission Owner”) commitment to this in-service
date.
Point of Interconnection
AB1-123 will interconnect with the Potomac Edison transmission system by tapping the Halfway
– Milnor 34.5 kV line. Please refer to the one-line diagram in Appendix 2 for system
configuration.
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 3 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Cost Summary
Interconnected Transmission Owner facilities and network upgrades as well as related costs
estimates required for this interconnection project are listed below.
(a.) Attachment Facilities:
Regional Line estimate. Include Metering package 6,040 ft of new 34.5 kV line.
- Estimated total time to complete: 13 Months
- Estimated total costs w/o. tax: $ 411,500 (Tax included: $ 521,400)
- Network Upgrade Number: not required
(b.) Direct Connection Network Upgrades:
(b.1) AB1-123 Interconnection - install a tapped substation on the Halfway -
Milnor 34.5 kV line with a breaker to the Mason Dixon Solar Center.
- Estimated total time to complete: 13 Months
- Estimated total costs w/o. tax: $ 1,351,900 (Tax included: $ 1,713,000)
- Network Upgrade Number: To be determined at a later study stage.
(b.2) Adjust Remote Relay and Metering Settings.
- Estimated total time to complete: 13 Months
- Estimated total costs w/o. tax: $ 12,500 (Tax included: $ 15,900)
- Network Upgrade Number: To be determined at a later study stage.
(c.) Non-Direct Connection Network Upgrades: $ 0.0
(d.) Direct Connection Local Upgrades: $ 0.0
(e.) Non-Direct Connection Local Upgrades: $ 0.0
(f.) Contributions for Previously Identified Upgrades: $ 0.0
(g.) Baseline Upgrades: $ 0.0
(h.) Option to Build Upgrades: $ 0.0
Total costs (a.) to (h.) without Tax: $ 1,775,900 (Tax included: $ 2,250,300)
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 4 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Interconnection Customer Requirements In addition to the Potomac Edison facilities, Mason Dixon Solar Center, LLC will also be
responsible for meeting all criteria as specified in the applicable sections of the FirstEnergy
“Requirements for Transmission Connected Facilities" document including:
1. The purchase and installation of fully rated interrupting device on the high side of the (AB1-
123) step-up transformer.
2. The purchase and installation of the minimum required FirstEnergy generation
interconnection relaying and control facilities. This includes over/under voltage protection,
over/under frequency protection, and zero sequence voltage protection relays.
3. The purchase and installation of supervisory control and data acquisition (“SCADA”)
equipment to provide information in a compatible format to the FirstEnergy Transmission
System Control Center.
4. The establishment of dedicated communication circuits for SCADA to the FirstEnergy
Transmission System Control Center.
5. A compliance with the FirstEnergy and PJM generator power factor and voltage control
requirements.
6. The execution of a back-up retail service agreement with the electric distribution company to
serve the customer load supplied from the (AB1-123) generation project interconnection point
when the units are out-of-service.
The above requirements are in addition to any metering or other requirements imposed by PJM.
Revenue Metering and SCADA Requirements
PJM Requirements
The Interconnection Customer will be required to install equipment necessary to provide
Revenue Metering (KWH, KVARH) and real time data (KW, KVAR) for Interconnection
Customer’s generating Resource. See PJM Manuals M-01 and M-14D, and PJM Tariff Sections
24.1 and 24.2.
Interconnected Transmission Owner Requirements
The Interconnection Customer will be required to comply with all FirstEnergy Revenue Metering
Requirements for Generation Interconnection Customers. The Revenue Metering Requirements
may be found within the “FirstEnergy Requirements for Transmission Connected Facilities”
document located at the following links:
http://www.firstenergycorp.com/feconnect
http://www.pjm.com/planning/design-engineering/to-tech-standards.aspx
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 5 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Schedule Based on the scope of Attachment Facilities and Network Upgrades required to support the this
generation project, it is expected to take a minimum of thirteen (13) months from the date of a
fully executed Interconnection Construction Service Agreement to complete the installation. It
also assumes that Interconnection Customer will provide all rights-of-way, permits, easements,
etc. that will be needed. A further assumption is that there will be no environmental issues with
any of the new properties associated with this project, that there will be no delays in acquiring
the necessary permits for implementing the defined Direct and Non-Direct Network upgrades,
and that all system outages will be allowed when requested.
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 6 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Network Impacts The Queue Project AB1-123 was evaluated as a 18.4 MW (Capacity 7.0 MW) injection into the
Halfway 34.5 kV substation in the APS area. Project AB1-123 was evaluated for compliance
with applicable reliability planning criteria (PJM, NERC, NERC Regional Reliability Councils,
and Transmission Owners). Project AB1-123 was studied with a commercial probability of
100%. Potential network impacts were as follows:
Summer Peak Analysis - 2019
Generator Deliverability
(Single or N-1 contingencies for the Capacity portion only of the interconnection)
None
Multiple Facility Contingency
(Double Circuit Tower Line, Fault with a Stuck Breaker, and Bus Fault contingencies for the full
energy output)
None
Contribution to Previously Identified Overloads
(This project contributes to the following contingency overloads, i.e. "Network Impacts",
identified for earlier generation or transmission interconnection projects in the PJM Queue)
None
Steady-State Voltage Requirements
(Results of the steady-state voltage studies should be inserted here)
None
Short Circuit
(Summary of impacted circuit breakers)
No overdutied breakers found.
Delivery of Energy Portion of Interconnection Request
PJM also studied the delivery of the energy portion of this interconnection request. Any
problems identified below are likely to result in operational restrictions to the project under
study. The developer can proceed with network upgrades to eliminate the operational restriction
at their discretion by submitting a Merchant Transmission Interconnection request.
Only the most severely overloaded conditions are listed. There is no guarantee of full delivery of
energy for this project by fixing only the conditions listed in this section. With a Transmission
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 7 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Interconnection Request, a subsequent analysis will be performed, which will study all overload
conditions associated with the overloaded element(s) identified.
None
Light Load Analysis - 2019
Not required.
System Reinforcements
Short Circuit
None
Stability and Reactive Power Requirement
None
Summer Peak Load Flow Analysis Reinforcements
New System Reinforcements
(Upgrades required to mitigate reliability criteria violations, i.e. Network Impacts, initially
caused by the addition of this project generation)
None
Contribution to Previously Identified System Reinforcements
(Overloads initially caused by prior Queue positions with additional contribution to overloading
by this project. This project may have a % allocation cost responsibility which will be calculated
and reported for the Impact Study)
None
Light Load Load Flow Analysis Reinforcements
New System Reinforcements
(Upgrades required to mitigate reliability criteria violations, i.e. Network Impacts, initially
caused by the addition of this project generation)
None
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 8 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Contribution to Previously Identified System Reinforcements
(Overloads initially caused by prior Queue positions with additional contribution to overloading
by this project. This project may have a % allocation cost responsibility which will be calculated
and reported for the Impact Study)
None
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 9 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Appendix 1
Facility Location
PJM Queue Position: AB1-123
© PJM Interconnection 2016. All rights reserved. 10 AB1-123 Showalter 34.5 kV
Appendix 2
Interconnection One-Line Diagram
PJM Queue Position: AB1-123