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Home My WebLink About20191598.tiffMAJOR FACILITIES OF A PUBLIC UTILITY SECTION 1041 PERMIT APPLICATION DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING SERVICES * 1555 N. 17TH AVENUE * GREELEY, CO 80631 www.weldqov.com * 970-400-6100 * FAX 970-304-6498 FOR PLANNING DEPARTMENT USE: DATE RECEIVED: AMOUNT $ CASE # ASSIGNED: APPLICATION RECEIVED BY PLANNER ASSIGNED: Parcel Number*: See Application Package Address of site: See Application Package (*A 12 digit number on Tax I.D. information, obtainable at www.wefdgov.com). Legal Description: See Application Package Section: Township: N Range: W Zone District: A Acreage: 70.9 Floodplain: No Geological Hazard: No FEE OWNER(S) OF THE PROPERTY: Name: See Application Package Airport Overlay: No Company: Phone #: Email: Street Address: City/State/Zip Code: Name: Company: Phone #: Email: Street Address: City/State/Zip Code: Name: Company: Phone #: Email: Street Address: City/State/Zip Code: APPLICANT OR AUTHORIZED AGENT: (See below: Authorization must accompany all applications signed by Authorized Agents) Name: Ryan Fitzpatrick Company: Roundhouse Renewables. LLC Phone #: 970.227.1513 Email: roan.fitzpatrick@nexteraenergy.com Street Address: 700 Universe Blvd. City/State/Zip Code: Juno Beach, FL 33408 PROPOSED USE: Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project I (We) hereby depose and state under penalt' of perjury that all statements, proposals, and/or plans submitted with or contained within the application are true a d correct to the best (our)knowledge. Signatures of all fee owners of property must sign this application. If an Authorized Agent signs, a lefro fee owners must be included with the application. If a corporation is the fee owner, notarized evidence �.. ica ' ,• atory has to leg?ll I�orijxto sign for the corporation. must be inc Metthew�S.Hend I Print Name Vice President Date Signature: Owner or Authorized Agent Date Print Name Rev 4/2016 Draft December 2018 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Project 1041 Areas and Activities of State Interest Permit Application Submitted to Weld County Submitted to Submitted by: Prepared by Weld County Planning and Zoning Department of Planning Services 1555 N. 17th Ave. Greeley. CO 80631 Roundhouse Renewables, LLC 700 Universe Blvd. Juno Beach. FL 33408 NEXTera ENERGY a / RESOURCES Logan Simpson 213 Linden Street. Suite 300 Fort Collins. Colorado 80524 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application Table of Contents 1.0 Executive Summary 1 1.1 Project Owners 1 1.2 Land Owners 1 1.3 Purpose and Need 2 1.4 Project Overview 2 2.0 Pre -Application Information 3 3.0 Project Description 4 4.0 Compliance with 1041 Permit Decision Criteria 9 Conformance with 1041 Permit Decision Criteria 9 21-3-340.A Approval of Permit Application. 9 5.0 Areas and Activities of State Interest —1041 Application Requirements 19 21-3-330 Application Submittal Requirements 19 21-3-330.A Application Requirements for a Major Facility of a Public Utility 19 21-3-330.B Application Submittal Requirements 19 21-3-330.B.1 — Map Requirements 19 21-3-330.B.1.a — Name and Acreage of Proposed Use 19 21-3-330.B.1.b - Map Requirements 19 21-3-330.B.1.c — Applicant and Consultants 19 21-3-330. B.2 - Title Information 20 21-3-330.B.2.a - Surface Property Owners and Real Property Interests 20 21-3-330.6.2. b — Project Access 22 21-3-330.6.2.c — Real Property Interests 22 21-3-330.B.2.d — Mineral Interests 22 21-3-330.6.3 — Application Submittal Requirements 22 21 -3 -330.6.3.a -c — Map Requirements 22 21-3-330.B.3.d — 1041 Permit Map and Vicinity Map 22 21-3-330.6.4 — Plot Plan 22 21-3-330.6.5 — Other Items and Information 23 n ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application 21-3-330.B.5.a — Present Use and Zoning 23 21-3-330.B 5.b -d - Sketch or Map 23 21-3-330.B.5.e — Type of Facility 23 21-3-330.B.5.f - Projected Development Schedule 23 21-3-330.B.5.g - Hazards and Emergency Procedures 24 21-3-330.B.5.h — Name, Address, and Telephone of Applicant 24 21-3-330.65.i — Name and Address of the Fee Owners of the Property 25 21-3-330.B.5.j — Legal Description of the Property under Consideration 25 21-3-330.B.5.k — Total Acreage of the Parcel, ROW, or Corridor under Consideration 25 21-3-330.B.5.I — Existing Land Use 25 21-3-330.B.5.m — Existing Land Uses of All Properties Adjacent to Parcels 25 21-3-330.B.5.n — Zoning and Overlay Zones 25 21-3-330.B.5.o - Signatures of the Applicant and Fee Owners or Their Authorized Legal Agent 25 21-3-330.B.6 — Natural and Socioeconomic Environmental Constraints Affecting Site Selection and Construction 25 21-3-330.B.7 — Natural and Socioeconomic Environmental Impacts from Construction of the Project 25 21-3-330.6.8 — Long -Term Effects upon Physical and Socioeconomic Development 35 21-3-330.8.9 — Mitigation of Adverse Impacts / Maximization of Positive Impacts 35 21-3-330.B. 10 — Non -Structural Alternatives 35 21-3-330.B.11 - Structural Alternatives 35 21-3-330.B.12 — Air and Water Pollution Impacts and Control Alternatives 35 21-3-330.B.13 — Design Alternatives: Access, Landscaping, and Architecture 36 21-3-330.B.14 — New or Upgraded Services 36 21-3-330.B.15 — Hydrologic, Atmospheric, Geologic, Pedologic, Biotic, Visual, and Noise Impacts 36 21-3-330.6.16 - Surface and Subsurface Drainage 37 21-3-330.B.17 — Decommissioning Plan 37 21-3-330.B.18 — Other Information 37 21-3-330.C Specific Submittal Requirements 37 21-3-330.D Waiver of Submittal Requirements 37 6.0 Analysis of Alternatives 39 6.1 Transmission System Alternatives 39 6.2 Project Siting Alternatives 39 iii ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application 7.0 Supplemental Information 45 7.1 Use by Special Review (USR) Questionnaire 45 7.1.1 Planning Questions 45 7.1.2 Engineering Questions 48 7.1.3 Environmental Health Questions 50 7.1.4 Building Questions 51 7.2 List of Future Permits and Plans 51 8.0 References 52 List of Tables Table 1 Overall Transmission Line Characteristics - Larimer and Weld Counties 8 Table 2 Compliance with Comprehensive Plan Goals and Policies 10 Table 3 Population in Northern Colorado 18 Table 4 Surface Property Owners and Real Property Interests within 500 feet of the Preferred Route 20 Table 5 Project Development Schedule 23 Table 6 Employees 35 Table 7 Alternative Route Comparison 42 List of Figures Figure 1 Typical 230kV Single -Circuit Transmission Tangent Structure 6 Figure 2 Photograph of a Typical 230kV Transmission Structure 7 Figure 3 Energy by Design Map (2013), overlaid with Preferred Alternative 29 iv ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application List of Appendices Appendix A List of Acronyms Appendix B 1041 Maps Map 1 Vicinity Map Map 2 Existing Land Uses Map 3 Wetlands. Riparian Areas. Surface Hydrology. and Floodplains Map 4 Land Cover Map 5 Prime Farmland and Slope Map 6 Zoning Map 7 Terrestrial and Aquatic Animal and Habitat Map 8 Soil Shrink/Swell Potential in the Siting Area Map 9 Soil Erodibility by Water Map 10 Soil Erodibility by Wind Appendix C Transmission Siting Study Appendix D Typical Transmission Structure Figures Appendix E Environmental Protection Measures Appendix F Photographic Simulations Appendix G Field Reconnaissance Summary Appendix H City of Fort Collins Staff Report Appendix I Summary of Public Comments v ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application 1.0 Executive Summary 1.1 Project Owners This application for a 1041 permit (Application) is filed by Roundhouse Renewable Energy. LLC (Roundhouse). a partnership involving an indirect subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources. LLC (NextEra) and Enyo Renewable Energy, LLC (Enyo). NextEra is a clean energy leader and one of the largest wholesale generators of electric power in the United States. NextEra has more than 19,000 megawatt (MW) of net generating capacity. primarily in 32 states and Canada as of year-end 2017 NextEra, together with its affiliated entities. is the world's largest operator of renewable energy from the wind and sun. NextEra is a subsidiary of Juno Beach, Florida -based NextEra Energy. Inc. (NYSE: NEE). For more information. visit www.NextEraEnergyResources.com_ Enyo is an independent solar and wind company that specializes in developing utility -scale renewable energy projects in the Intermountain West. Enyo understands what it takes to site and complete solar and wind projects in the region's vast deserts and mountain valleys. Enyo is committed to successful collaboration and is further committed to meeting the demand for clean energy that will help clear the air and conserve water. For more information. visit www.enyo- energy.com NextEra and Enyo have entered into a partnership for the Roundhouse Energy Project (Project) that has allowed for an opportunity to build a wind energy center that would provide good jobs. economic growth and clean energy to the region. Roundhouse has entered into a contract with Platte River Power Authority (Platte River) to provide locally produced wind energy. Platte River is a Colorado political subdivision established to provide wholesale electric generation and transmission to the municipal utilities of its owner communities — Estes Park. Fort Collins. Longmont. and Loveland_ Platte River delivers safe. reliable, environmentally responsible. and competitively priced energy and services 1.2 Land Owners As described in Section 21-3-330.B.2. the Project crosses three property owners in Weld County: • City of Fort Collins: 2.43 miles. The City's Energy Advisory Board and Natural Resources Advisory Board unanimously recommend approval of the easement to City Council. A decision by City Council is expected in January 2019. See Appendix H for the City staff report. • Duck Creek Grazing Association, Inc.: 0.77 miles. The Association is headquartered in Weld County near Greeley. Colorado and is in support of the Project. The Association has entered into a lease agreement for permitting. design. construction and operations a wind farm on portions of its property in Wyoming. • State of Colorado, State Land Board: 0.73 miles. The Project has been in communication with the State Land Board since August 2018 to evaluate the preferred centerline. and will proceed with easement acquisition through Spring 2019. The State Land Board provided the Project with a Temporary Access Permit on 9/18/18 to complete survey and design fieldwork. 1 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application 1.3 Purpose and Need The purpose of the Project is to increase the amount of renewable energy sources in the Platte River portfolio for the benefit of its four participating municipalities (Fort Collins. Loveland, Longmont. and Estes Park). The Project is an approximately 3.9 -mile segment of a larger transmission line project designed to bring renewable wind energy to northern Colorado from Wyoming to secure competitive energy resources and advance the climate action plan goals of Platte River's member communities. Since 2015, Fort Collins City Council has been accelerating implementation of ambitious climate action goals - aiming to reduce carbon emissions 20 percent below 2005 baseline levels by 2020, 80 percent by 2030. with carbon neutrality achieved by 2050. Other Platte River member cities have also established goals to achieve greater use of renewable energy sources. including Loveland. Longmont. and Estes Park. In 2017, wind power comprised about 11 percent of the electricity that Platte River sent to its four owner -municipalities. The Project will allow Platte River to triple its wind capacity. making almost half of the utility's electricity renewable and saving residents money in the long-term. Renewable electricity made possible by the Project will provide a reduction in emissions and benefit air quality within northern Colorado. 1.4 Project Overview As defined in the Weld County Code (Code). the Project is a Major Facility of a Public Utility and subject to Chapter 21 — Areas and Activities of State Interest (Section 1041 Regulations) of the Code. This Application provides Project information. appendices. and materials, which are hereby incorporated into and made part of this Application package_ The 1041 Permit Map (Appendix B, Map 1, Vicinity Map) displays the Project vicinity and the three alternative routes carried forward for analysis. This Application requests approval of a 1041 permit for the Project pursuant to the 1041 Regulations. The Project consists of a new overhead single -circuit. 230 -kV capable transmission line through approximately 3.9 miles of Weld County within a 150 -foot wide easement. Completion of the Project also opens possibilities for a future interconnected grid system to other planned transmission and generation opportunities in the area, as intended by Colorado Revised Statutes Title 29 Government Local § 29-20-108 (though this statute does not apply as Roundhouse is not a public utility or power authority). Construction is anticipated to be completed in 2020. This Application requests that the permit be valid through January 1, 2023. The transmission line will consist of self-supporting steel monopole structures, angle structures. and dead-end structures ranging in height from 80 to 135 feet. with the span lengths of 800 feet on average. The transmission structure finish will be galvanized steel. Figure 1 and Appendix D present typical structure designs for single -circuit tangent and deadend poles. Figure 2 presents a photograph of a typical single -circuit structure. Table 1 outlines characteristics of the proposed transmission line. It should be recognized that the preliminary centerline is subject to adjustment following further consultation with landowners and more detailed project design. In order to provide a reasonable degree of flexibility to accommodate landowner preferences and minimize potential conflicts. a Permitting Corridor was defined with a width of 300 to 500 feet depending on routing constraints 2 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application (See Appendix B. Map 10, 1041 Permit Site Map). The Permitting Corridor includes the permanent 150 -foot -wide easement (75 feet on either side of the centerline) and the temporary construction easement. The temporary construction easement also includes a radius of 450 feet around angle structures where staging and stringing activities may occur Easements will be executed and recorded with the County prior to construction. The Application requests approval of the proposed Permitting Corridor with an allowance for centerline adjustments within this defined corridor if the Applicant determines that such adjustment is merited based on accommodating affected property owners or minimizing potential conflicts. In accordance with the 1041 Regulations and the criteria set forth therein regarding technical revisions. Roundhouse will seek administrative approval from the County for a change to the Permitting Corridor if the need arises. 2.0 Pre -Application Information This Section includes the Letter of Intent. Major Facilities of a Public Utility Section 1041 Permit Application. Supplemental Information Requested from the Use by Special Review (USR) Procedural Guide Checklist. and Authorization Form 3 MEMORANDUM TO: PRE18-0197; Case File, pre -application DATE: July 20, 2018 FROM: Kris Ranslem, Planning Technician SUBJECT: Pre -Application Meeting prior to submitting USR for 230 kV electric transmission line Attendees: Christine Mikell, Applicant Ryan Fitzpatrick, Applicant Jeremy Call, Applicant Chris Gathman, Planning Evan Pinkham. Public Works Kris Ranslem, Planning On Friday, July 20, 2018 an informal discussion took place at the Greeley Administrative Offices Conference Room regarding a proposed 230 kV electric transmission line. (The line will be built from the proposed wind farm in Wyoming to the existing PRPA Rawhide Energy Station) Background Information: Roundhouse Renewable Energy is proposing to build approximately 3.5 miles of new 230 kV electric transmission line. The remainder of the transmission line would be located in Wyoming and the line would connect to the existing Platte River Power Authority Rawhide Energy Station. The applicant indicated that it will be a private line; however, there is an option for Platte River Power Authority to obtain the line in the future. Construction would hope to begin in 2019 with completion in 2020. Building Department Staff was unavailable; however please contact Jose Gonzalez at 970-353-6100 ext. 3540 for further direction. Building permits may be required, per Section 29-3-10 of the Weld County Code. Currently the following has been adopted by Weld County: 2012 International Residential Code, 2012 International Building Code, 2012 International Mechanical Code, 2012 International Plumbing Code, 2012 International Plumbing Code, 2012 International Fuel Gas Code, 2006 International Energy Conservation Code, and 2017 National Electrical Code. A building permit application must be completed and two complete sets of engineered and architectural plans bearing the wet stamp of a Colorado registered engineer or architect must be submitted for review for each structure. A complete code analysis prepared by a registered design professional is required and shall be submitted with All Commercial Building Permit Applications to Weld County. All new Commercial Building Projects require Fire District Notification (letter or email form). Proof shall be submitted with Commercial Permit applications. Final Fire District Approval is also required prior to issuing a Certificate of Occupancy and or closing a building permit. Building department staff strongly recommends a pre -application building permit submittal meeting, and, or a pre -construction meeting with Building Department staff for an overview of permit requirements. Please call 970-400-6100 and ask for a Plans Examiner. Building permit requirements can be found on the web -site link below: https://www.weldgov.com/departments/building/building permit/construction handouts more information/ Health Department Staff was unavailable; however please contact Lauren Light at 970-400-2211 for further direction. Waste handling: Waste materials shall be handled, stored, and disposed in a manner that controls blowing debris, and other potential nuisance conditions. The applicant shall operate in accordance with Chapter 14, Article 1 of the Weld County Code. Please answer the following if applicable; indicate if there will be washing of vehicles or equipment, fuel storage, maintenance of vehicles or equipment, floor drains in shop, air emissions permit. Onsite dust: Fugitive dust should attempt to be confined on the property. Uses on the property should comply with the Colorado Air Quality Commission's air quality regulations. Sewage disposal information: Include in application how sewage disposal will be accommodated. If using a septic system provide a copy of the septic permit. Either utilize the County website www.co.weld.co.us/maps/propertyportal/ or call (970-304-6415) or stop by EH front counter and request a copy. Potable water information: Include in application how potable water will be provided. Provide a will serve letter or water bill from the water district or provide a copy of well permit. Portable toilets and Bottled water can be used for employees and customers per policy below: TO DEFINE WHEN PORTABLE TOILETS AND COMMERCIALLY BOTTLED WATER ARE ALLOWED Purpose: To define when portable toilets and commercially bottled water are allowed. Policy: Bottled water from a commercial source is allowed in the following circumstances: 1. Temporary or seasonal uses that are utilized 6 months or less per year (for example recreational facilities, firework stands, farmers markets) 2. Gravel mines 3. 10 or less customers or visitors per day And/or one of the following: 4. 2 or less full time (40 hour week) employees located on site 5. 4 or less part time (20 hour week) employees located on site 6. Employees or contractors that are on site for less than 2 consecutive hours a day Policy: portable toilets are allowed in the following circumstances: 1. Temporary or seasonal uses that are utilized 6 months or less per year (for example recreational facilities. firework stands, farmers markets) 2. Gravel mines 3. 10 or less customers or visitors per day And/or one of the following: 4. 2 or less full time (40 hour week) employees located on site 5. 4 or less part time (20 hour week) employees located on site 6. Employees or contractors that are on site for less than 2 consecutive hours a day Public Works Per Chapter 12, Article 4, Section 12-4-30.B, a Weld County Right -of -Way Use Permit is required for any project that will be occupying, constructing or excavating facilities within, and/or encroaching upon, any County rights -of -way or easement. Right -of -Way Use Permit instructions and application can be found at https://www.weldgov.com/departments/publicworks/permits/. Weld County will not replace overlapping easements located within existing right-of-way or pay to relocate existing utilities within the County right-of-way. ACCESS Table 12A.2 Minimum Access Spacing Criteria (Feet Access Element Arterial Collector Local Distance between intersections Signalized Unsignalized 2,640 1,320 N/A 1,320 N/A 330 Distance between accesses and intersections 660 660 330 Distance between access points 660 330 150 Distance between access points in subdivisions 660 330 75 Per Chapter 12, Article 5, Section 12-5-30, an Access Permit is required for access to Weld County maintained roadways. We strongly encourage you to discuss your access with Public Works prior to laying out your site plan to ensure the approved accesses are compatible with your layout. For new accesses and/or change of use of an existing access, the fee and photos are required (photo looking left and right along roadway from the access point and looking in to and out of the access point). These photos are used to evaluate the safety of the access location. Access permit instructions and application can be found at https://www.weldgov.com/departments/public works/permits/. Chapter 6, Sections 6.3.6.4 and 6.5 of the Weld County Engineering and Construction Criteria offer access design guidance, which can be accessed at: https://www.weldgov.com/departments/public works/enqineering/. Appendix 12-A of the county code can also be referenced. Existing access points with change of use or new access points may or may not be granted. Questions pertaining to access permits or access design shall be directed to the Public Works Department. Application Fee: temporary $75, single residential $75. small commercial $75, industrial $150, field $0, large commercial $150, subdivision $150. This can be accessed at: https://www.weldgov.com/departments/public works/engineering/. For shared accesses, Public Works strongly recommends the property owner establish an access road maintenance agreement so future owners of the properties will be aware of their requirements for shared maintenance of the access road. This is not a requirement for the recorded exemption but is recommended to avoid property owner conflicts in the future. Per Chapter 12, Appendix 12A.4.1 of the Weld County Code, an access approach that is gated shall be designed so that the longest vehicle (including trailers) using the access can completely clear the traveled way when the gate is closed. In no event, shall the distance from the gate to the edge of the traveled surface be less than 35 feet. As part of the development review process, all new commercial or residential developments will be required to submit a TIS that is prepared, stamped, and signed by a professional engineer licensed in the State of Colorado, unless the TIS is waived by Public Works. Traffic Narrative: 1. Describe how many roundtrips/day are expected for each vehicle type: Passenger Cars/Pickups, Tandem Trucks, Semi-Truck/Trailer/RV (Roundtrip = 1 trip in and 1 trip out of site) 2. Describe the expected travel routes or haul routes for site traffic. 3. Describe the travel distribution along the routes (e.g. 50% of traffic will come from the north, 20% from the south, 30% from the east, etc.) Weld County has recently adopted a new stormwater drainage code located under Chapter 23, Article 12 Storm Drainage Criteria. A list of professional engineering consultants is available if you need help finding an engineer to assist you with your project at the following link http://www.co.weld.co.us/Departments/PlanningZoning/Engineering.html. Please contact the Department of Planning Services/Development Review Engineering for questions or assistance 970-353-6100. This area IS within a Non -Urbanizing Drainage Area: Non -Urbanizing Drainage Areas generally require detention of runoff from the 1 -hour, 100 -year, storm falling on the developed site and release of the detained water at the historic runoff rate of the 1 -hour, 10 -year storm falling on the undeveloped site. Detention pond summarized in a drainage report is required unless the project falls under an exception to stormwater detention requirements per code section 23-12-30 F.1. To avoid holding up case processing, a minimum of either a preliminary drainage report or a drainage narrative with exception as shown below must be submitted with 7 -day case submittal information. Detention Pond Requirements: 1. Drainage Narrative requirements with exception from detention pond. The Drainage Narrative must describe at a minimum: i. Which exception is being applied for and include supporting documentation ii. Where the water originates if it flows onto the property from an offsite source iii. Where it flows to as it leaves the property iv. The direction of flow across the property v. If there have been previous drainage problems with the property DRAINAGE CODE REQUIREMENTS (informational only): Section 23-12-30. Drainage Policy. F. Exceptions. Exceptions to stormwater detention shall not jeopardize the public health, safety, and welfare of public and private property and shall be limited to the following: No stormwater detention will be required for sites that meet any of the following conditions. Requirements of the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) areas remain applicable. 5. Pipelines or transmission lines. The applicants will be required to maintain the historic drainage flows and run-off amounts that exist from the property. If more than 1 acre is to be disturbed for construction of non pipeline or non -gravel pit items such as structures. parking lots, laydown yards etc..., a Weld County Grading Permit will be required prior to the start of construction. Grading Permit applications are accepted after the planning process is complete (map recorded). An Early Release Request Form may be entertained only after the applicant and Planning Department have reviewed the referral and surrounding property owner comments. The Early Release Request may or may not be granted depending on referral comments and surrounding property owner concerns. Contact an Engineering representative from the Planning Department for more information. Application Fees: 1-5 Acres/ $50, 5.1 - 20 Acres/$100, 20.1 Acres or Greater/$200 + $1 per acre over 20. A Site Plan will be required identifying the following (if applicable): o Show and label location of existing road, existing road right-of-way. future road right-of-way, and easements o Show and label the unmaintained section line right-of-way o Show and label location of the access(es) and label with access permit number o Show and label the access turning radii (Residential — 25' Commercial — 60') o Show and label the approved tracking control o Show and label location of drainage related features i.e. detention pond(s), ditches, etc... Detention ponds shall be labeled as "No Build/Storage Area" and include design volume o Show and label the drainage flow arrows showing how the stormwater flows across the property o Show and label the parking and traffic circulation flow arrows showing how the traffic moves around the property Please contact the following staff regarding the following Public Works issues: Access Permits: Morgan Gabbert mgabberta.weldgov.com 970-400-3778 Improvements Agreements: Evan Pinkham epinkhamaweldgov.com 970-400-3727 Traffic Studies: Dawn Anderson dranderson(a�weldgov.com 970-400-3736 MS4 Areas: Lyndsay Holbrook lholbrookaweldgov.com 970-400-3788 Right -of -Way Permits: Amy Joseph aioseph@weldgov.com 970-400-3764 Drainage: Hayley Balzano hbalzanoa.weldgov.com 970-400-3738 Planning Department Staff will provide a determination if this application will fall under the 1041 Permit or the Non -1041 Permit regulations. Staff urged the applicant to contact staff for any questions: Planner On Call available Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or contact Chris Gathman at 970-400- 3537 or cgathmanaiweldgov.com Staff explained the USR process Non -1041 Permit ($5,000 fee) and the 1041 Permit process ($10,000 fee). The applicant shall submit 1 packet for a 7 -day completeness review. After the 7 -day completeness review the applicant will be informed of what items are still required to make the application complete. Staff requested that the applicant submit the remaining material in electronic form. Upon submittal of a completed application it will be sent out for referral for 28 days. The applicant will then meet with their Planner to discuss the referrals and address as many of the referrals as possible. At that meeting the Planning Commission hearing will be scheduled. The Board of County Commissioners hearing typically follows approximately 3 weeks after the Planning Commission hearing. The above notes are provided as a courtesy to the applicant. While we strive to help identify as many potential issues upfront during the pre -application meeting we cannot anticipate every issue that may come up during the formal application process. The information contained herein has been placed on file with the Department of Planning Services. The pm -application is valid fora period of one (1) year from the date of pre - application. If a formal application is not received following the time period specified herein the Planning Department reserves the right to require a new pre -application meeting. Please note that all land use. building and impact fees are subject to change throughout this time period. End memorandum Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Weld County Pre -Application Meeting Minutes Weld County Pre -Application Meeting Minutes July 20, 2018 Participants: Weld County: Chris Gathman, Planner; cgathman@weldgov.com Kris Ranslem, Planner; kranslem@weldgov.com Applicant: Christine Mikell, Roundhouse Renewable Energy; christine @enyo-energy. corn Ryan Fitzpatrick, Blue Water Consulting LLC.; blue. water.ryan@gmail.com Jeremy Call, Logan Simpson: jcall@logansimpson.com Minutes 1) Project Background, Purpose and Need, and Potential Routes Jeremy presented a summary of the Roundhouse Renewable Energy LLC (RHRE) project and pre -application meeting request documents. RHRE is proposing to build the Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project (Project), including approximately 3.5 miles of new 230 -kilovolt (kV) electric transmission in Weld County. The remainder of the transmission line would be located in Wyoming and Larimer County, Colorado. Power would be generated by a proposed wind farm in Wyoming and the transmission line would connect to the existing Platte River Power Authority (PRPA) Rawhide Energy Station (Rawhide). The Permit Application would address the RHRE transmission line: from the Wyoming state line to the Larimer County line, approximately 3.5 miles long and built single -circuit 230 kV capable. Multiple potential routes were evaluated; three were carried forward as a result of a siting study. These three routes parallel existing linear infrastructure (railroad and old State Highway) for the majority of the distance through Weld County. The alternative route corridors shown on the submitted map are 500 feet wide, but the proposed transmission line, if built, will only require a 150 -foot right-of- way. The preferred route will likely be parallel to and west of the railroad. In addition to the Weld County permit, the project requires a 1041 permit from Larimer County and a City of Fort Collins Easement. RHRE would like to obtain the Weld County permit no later than spring of 2019. 2) Project Benefits The Project is in line with the PRPA owner communities' climate action goals and commitment to clean energy, including those of the City of Fort Collins. The project is estimated to decrease Fort Collins' emissions by about 10 percent. Much of the Weld County portion of the transmission line would be located on the Meadow Springs Ranch, a property owned by the City of Fort Collins and utilized for livestock grazing and the recycling of biosolids from its wastewater treatment facilities. RHRE meets weekly with the City of Fort Collins and they are working cooperatively to site the project and reduce potential effects. Therefore, the impacts of the proposed line would largely be felt by the City of Fort Collins. The Duck Creek Grazing Association, Inc. has leased their land southwest of Cheyenne, WY, to RHRE. Duck Creek Grazing Association is headquartered in Cheyenne and local members stand to gain financially from approval of the Weld County permit application. 3) Discussion of Potential Issues to Address in the Applications 7/20/2018 1 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Weld County Pre -Application Meeting Minutes Chris Gathman reviewed the Use by Special Review Chapter 23 definitions of applicability, questioning whether the project should be permitted as a USR or 1041 (Chapter 21). He will confer with Bruce Barker, County Attorney and provide a written determination. Jeremy asked what concerns the project presented to Weld County. Chris confirmed that there are no County Roads, energy or water infrastructure in the vicinity that would be affected by the project or used for construction. Therefore, no road improvement agreement would likely be required. Chris stated that no Environmental Health Department requirements apply as the project will be unmanned. Bottled water and access to restrooms need to be provided during construction. Chris indicated there would be no likely impacts to irrigated agriculture or crop dusting. There are no or very few residences in the vicinity. RHRE will hold a public open house meeting in Larimer County on August 15. Notifications to landowners will be made to at least 500 feet on either side of the project. Visual resources: Chris requested the application provide an elevation of the transmission line (angle and tangent structures), the material. No viewshed analysis or simulation is necessary. Chris stated that few applications have occurred in this area and they were not controversial. Mineral owners notification is not applicable for transmission lines. What kind of Non -Structural Alternatives, as defined by Sec. 21-3-330.B.10, are required to be defined or described for the transmission line preferred and alternative routes? Suggested that could cite PRPA Request for Proposals which sought other renewable sources. What type / kind of surface/subsurface drainage information, as defined by Sec. 21-3-330.B.16, be required in the 1041 application for the transmission line corridor? Chris stated that a drainage report could be waived. Is a Decommissioning Plan required and if so what kind of information is expected, as defined by Sec. 21-3-330.B.17, for the transmission line? Chris recommended reviewing past 1041/USR applications for transmission lines. 4) Guidance for permit application content and process Weld County referral agencies: Larimer County CO, Laramie County WY, CDOT, CPW, Fire District, Northern Water Conservation District, West Greeley Soil Conservation District, CO SHPO, and internal Weld County entities (Office of Emergency Management, Public Works). Reviewed the permit timeline (in Procedural Guide). Overall timeline from application to BCC hearing could be as long as 5 months. The BCC only hears 3 land use cases per meeting each Wednesday. Chris reviewed the USR Procedural Guide Checklist. Regardless of whether the application is for an USR or 1041, portions of the checklist apply. If for a 1041, Chris directed as follows: • Submit a copy of the pre -application meeting minutes. • Submit USR application form • Submit Applicant's authorization form if applicant is different than owner. • Submit responses to USR questionnaire in the body of the application. 7/20/2018 2 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Weld County Pre -Application Meeting Minutes • USR maps and certification blocks are not necessary. • Submit 1041 maps per Chapter 21. • A 1041 Plot Plan (as defined by Sec. 21-3-330.B.4) is not required for the 1041 application submittal as there is no substation site. • Certificates of Conveyances are not applicable. • Business Emergency Information form is not necessary, refer to Emergency Response section of the application narrative. • Affidavit of Interest Owners / Surface Estate. Generate a list of property owners from the website per the distances in the 1041 or USR. • Water Supply information form; proof of water supply is not applicable. • Drainage Report Review Checklist is not applicable. • Proof of sewer disposal is not applicable • No municipality is within 3 miles of the project, hence a Notice of Inquiry is not necessary. • A Traffic Study is not applicable. • A community meeting is encouraged. • Application fee is due upon determination of a complete application. 5) Follow Up / Action Items • Chris Gathman or County Attorney to provide a written determination re: whether USR Chapter 23 or 1041 Chapter 21 applies. • Chris to advise if any statements in these minutes require correction or clarification. 7/20/2018 3 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Chris Gathman Christine Mikell Ryan Fitzgatick; Erin Bibeau; Jeremy Call; Kristine Ranslem RE: Potential Pre -Application Meeting Times Monday, July 23, 2018 5:42:19 PM image004.onq Dear Christine, We discussed this request today with staff and our County Attorney. The Determination is that a 1041 USR will be required and it will be required to adhere to the 1041 process as delineated under Chapter 21 of the Weld County Code. This requirement applies to where the transmission line begins and ends at a substation/transition site — regardless of where these substation/transition sites are located. Here is the attached definition per Chapter 21 of the Weld County Code: • Transmission lines : Those electrical lines and appurtenant facilities which meet all of the following criteria: 1 Either a series of three (3) or more structures and appurtenant facilities erected above ground which support one (1) or more conductors or a power line placed underground. 2. Which lines emanate from a power plant or a substation/transition site and terminate at a substation/transition site. 3. Which are designed to transmit electrical voltages of 115 kV or greater. Regards, Chris Gathman Planner Ili Weld County Department of Planning Services 1555 N. 17th Avenue tel: 970-400-3537 fax: 970-400-4098 Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that Weld County 1041 Permit Application for Areas and Activities of State Interest Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Project Roundhouse Renewable Energy, LLC 700 Universe Blvd. Juno Beach, FL 33408 LETTER OF INTENT I am writing to you on behalf of Roundhouse Renewables LLC (Roundhouse). pursuant to the requirements under Colorado Revised Statute 29-20-108 (Statute), which addresses the location and construction of major facilities of a public utility and Chapter 21 of the Weld County Charter and Code. which addresses the 1041 Permit application requirements. Specifically. I am confirming the notification to Weld County. through you. of Roundhouses application for approval of a 1041 permit for the Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Project (Project) Also. as provided in the Statute. Roundhouse has consulted with Weld County to identify the specific geographic location and route under consideration for the Project and has worked to resolve any land use issues that may arise as a result of the Project. Through this application (Application), Roundhouse respectfully requests approval of a 1041 permit to construct. operate. and maintain 3 9 miles of 230kV- capable single -circuit above ground transmission line in Weld County. As discussed in our consultation meeting with Weld County staff, the Project is part of an effort by Platte River Power Authority (PRPA) to bring renewable wind energy to northern Colorado from Wyoming_ secure competitive energy resources. and advance the climate action plan goals of its member cities The overall effort includes an approximately 20 -mile -long transmission line from a new wind farm southwest of Cheyenne. Wyoming, to a new substation in Wyoming, across the Wyoming/Colorado state line (state line). through Weld County for approximately 3 9 miles. and though Larimer County for approximately 9 5 miles to the existing Rawhide Energy Station in Larimer County This Application concerns only the portion of the transmission line located in Weld County A separate 1041 application for the 9 5 mile segment of the transmission line will be submitted to Larimer County The wind farm southwest of Cheyenne. Wyoming and associated transmission lines to the state line are being permitted separately in Wyoming. As documented in the remainder of this Application, the Project complies with the policies contained in the Weld County Comprehensive Plan and the decision criteria defined in Weld County's 1041 Permit regulations. Roundhouse appreciates Weld County s consideration of this Application and we look forward to working with you further Please let me know if I can provide additional information or assistance I can be contacted directly via 970-227-1513 or email at ryan.fitzpatrick@nexteraenergy.com Kindest regards. Ryan Fitzpatrick Roundhouse Renewables. LLC 970-227-1513 Supplemental Information Requested from the USE BY SPECIAL REVIEW (USR) PROCEDURAL GUIDE CHECKLIST DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING SERVICES * 1555 N 17TH AVENUE ` GREELEY. CO 80631 www.weldgov.com 970-400-6100 * FAX 970-304-6498 APPL CAT ON REQU REMENTS The applicant shall submit 1 -hard copy and 1 -electronic copy containing one of all of the items listed_ The application will be reviewed for completeness during the Completeness Review. X Submit a copy of the pre -application meeting minutes Logan Simpson and Weld County minutes are included in the application package. X Submit application form X Submit Applicant's representative/authorization form if applicant or authorized agent is different than owner Submit incorporation documents if the owner is an LLC, INC. etc. X Submit responses to USR questionnaire X Submit USR map with paper dimensions of 24" X 36". See attached for map requirements Not applicable for Section 1041 Permit application. NA Submit Certificate of Conveyances form and all attachments Contact a title company to obtain a Certificate of Conveyances The Certificate of Conveyances expires in thirty days of the signing date on the cover sheet Not applicable for Transmission Project Easement Agreements will be negotiated with landowners. X Submit a list of all the surrounding property owners (surface estate) within 500 feet of the property under consideration. This list must be a certified list of the names. addresses. and the corresponding parcel number assigned by the Weld County Assessor of the owners of property_ Also submit the affidavit stating that the list is accurate. This list shall be compiled from the records of the Weld County Assessor_ the Weld County Website. www_co.weld.us. or a person qualified to do the task. This list expires in thirty days of the date compiled. NA Submit copy of document showing evidence of adequate water supply (e.g . well permit or letter from water district). If using a well. please complete the attached Water Supply Information Summary Request waiver as the Project does not require a water supply. See USR Questionnaire. NA Submit copy of document showing evidence of adequate sewage disposal (e g . septic permit or letter from the sanitary sewer district) If having more than 2 full-time employees on site. If not. the environmental health standard is a portable toilet and bottled water A waver may be requested. Request waiver as the Project does not require sewage disposal See USR Questionnaire_ NA Notice of Inquiry or letter/email from a municipality if the site is located within an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) boundary or a Cooperative Planning Area (CPA) No Notice of Inquiry or interest in annexation was received. NA Detention design summarized in a Drainage Report if required per pre -application meeting minutes_ Request waiver- no Drainage Report is required for the Project per the pre -application meeting minutes. NA Traffic Study. if required per pre -application meeting minutes. Request waiver no Traffic Study is required per the pre -application meeting minutes X A community meeting is encouraged for owners within 500 feet of property boundary. A community open house meeting was held in Fort Collins on August 15. 2018 See Appendix C Transmission Siting Study X Submit all required documents on electronically or via email in pdf format. X Application fee NA Investigation fee, due only if this is a violation DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND BUILDING DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND ENVIRONNMENT 1555 NORTH 17TH AVENUE GREELEY, CO 80631 AUTHORIZATION FORM I, (We). Roundhouse Renewables, LLC , give permission to Logan Simpson Design (Owner — please print) (Authorized Agent — please print) to apply for any Planning, Building or Septic permits on our behalf, for the property located at (address or parcel number) below: Roundhouse Renewable Energy Proiect. Section 1041 Areas and Activities of State Interest Application Legal Description: N/A of Section , Township N, Range W Subdivision Name: N/A Lot Block Property Owners Information: See Application Package (Section 5) Address: Phone: Authorized Agent Contact Information: E-mail: Address: 213 Linden Street, Suite 300, Fort Collins, CO 80524 Phone: 970-449-4100 E -Mail: jcaIl(a�logansimpsoncom Correspondence to be sent to: Owner X Additional Info: Authorized Agent Both / by Mail Email_ Owner Signature: Date: /2-11q. ( D f Draft Duck Creek Grazing Association PO Box 597 Eaton, CO 80615 December 12, 2018 Weld County Planning Department 1555 N 17th Ave Greeley, CO 80631 Dear Weld County Planning Department, We are writing to inform you of our support of NextEra's transmission line. We have been working with NextEra as they have worked through the process of research and development for this project and we look forward to continuing to work with them through the implementation. Most of the membership of Duck Creek are long time residents of Weld County who are deeply invested in the community. The membership is excited to see this project move forward as we believe it will benefit the entire community through job growth and well as developing another source of energy for the community. Please feel free to contact us at anytime with any questions that you may have about our interest in the project. The best contact person is Jerry Sidwell 970-3814701. Sincerely, Duck Creek Grazing Association ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application 3.0 Project Description The Project is a new above -ground single -circuit. 230kV-capable transmission line through approximately 3.9 miles of Weld County. The overall Project route would originate at the Roundhouse Renewable Energy wind farm southwest of Cheyenne. Wyoming. The overall Project includes the construction of approximately 20 miles of new transmission line, of which 13.4 miles would be located in Colorado and the remainder in Wyoming. The Colorado portion of the line includes a 3.9 -mile segment in Weld County. which is the subject of this application. The portion of the Project located in Weld County will proceed from the state line to the Larimer County line. The wind farm and associated transmission lines located in Wyoming are being permitted separately_ Construction of the overall Project is anticipated to be completed in 2020. The Project includes a 150 -foot -wide. 3.9 -mile -long easement. equal to approximately 70 9 acres. through which the Preferred Route of the transmission line will run from the state line to the Larimer County line_ The corridor traverses municipal, state owned, and privately owned land. 2.43 miles through property owned by the City of Fort Collins Wastewater Utility. and known as the Meadow Springs Ranch (Ranch): 0.73 miles through State Land Board property: and 0.77 miles through one property under private ownership. None of the properties are open to the public. Within the transmission line easement. the area to be occupied by the installation of transmission structures is limited to approximately 0.04 acre. The Ranch is a 26.600 acre ranch that was purchased by the City of Fort Collins primarily to serve as an integral part of the wastewater treatment process for regulatory compliant biosolids application. The ranch is also used for livestock grazing. and contains wildlife habitat and a range of natural resource values. Figure 1 presents a typical structure design for a single -circuit tangent pole. Appendix D presents typical structure designs for single -circuit tangent and dead-end poles. Figure 2 presents a photograph of a typical single -circuit structure. Table 1 outlines characteristics of the proposed transmission line. It should be recognized that the preliminary centerline is subject to adjustment following further consultation with landowners and more detailed project design. In order to provide a reasonable degree of flexibility to accommodate landowner preferences and minimize potential conflicts. a corridor was defined with a width of 300 feet (Appendix B, Map 1, Vicinity Map). The Application to Weld County requests approval of the proposed 300 -foot -wide corridor with an allowance for centerline adjustments within this defined corridor if merited. • The transmission line will consist of self-supporting steel monopole structures. angle structures. and deadend structures. Monopole structures will range in height from 80 to 130 feet, depending on length of span. The typical span length between transmission structures is 800 feet. but longer spans of 1.000 feet can be achieved to span environmental or sensitive resources. The selected finish will be galvanized steel. 4 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application The Project will include any or all of the following: • Overhead electrical transmission linestransmission line structures. and other necessary interconnection facilities: • Construction and maintenance access roads: and • Temporary construction material storage and assembly yards. After approval of the Application. Roundhouse will commence negotiations for non-exclusive easements to allow for construction. operation. and maintenance of the Project. Upon execution. the easements will be recorded with the Weld County Clerk and Recorder. 5 C ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application Figure 1 Typical 230kV Single -Circuit Transmission Tangent Structure A A 4 OROUICSC LUG (FLATS 3SII) t 3 it CORROSION Ut.E SEE NOTE 2 Ufa PLATE le STRUCTURE RUMMER SION 4 t 6 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application Figure 2 Photograph of a Typical 230kV Transmission Structure 7 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application Table 1 Overall Transmission Line Characteristics - Larimer and Weld Counties Description 230kV Single -Circuit Monopole Steel Structures Right-of-way width 150 feet Span between structures (average) 795 feet Span between structures (maximum) 1.199 feet Number of structures (average) Approximately 126 total structures. 6-7 structures per mile Height of structure (typical) Tangent 100 foot above ground height (AGH) Light Angle 115 foot AGH Medium Angle: 105 foot AGH Monopole Deadend 105 foot AGH 3 Pole Deadend 120 foot AGH Height of structure (typical range) Tangent 80-135 foot AGH Light Angle 105-115 foot AGH Medium Angle. 105-115 foot AGH Monopole Deadend: 95-105 foot AGH 3 Pole Deadend 120-125 foot AGH Width of structure cross/davit arm Standard Braced Post Tangent (01101): 7 5 foot Projection Alternate Tangent (01 103). 15 foot Davit Arms Braced Post Running Angle (01111): 7.5 foot Projection Suspension Running Angle (01113): 10 foot Davit Arms Width of structure at ground level Foundation sizes will be unknown until a geotechnical report is prepared for the Project. See the below estimates based on previous project experience Direct Embed Foundation: 5 - 7 feet in diameter Drilled Shaft Foundation: 6 — 10 feet in diameter Structure base area The area of foundations based on the above assumptions. Direct Embed Foundation 19 - 39 square feet per pole Drilled Shaft Foundation 28 - 78 5 square feet per pole Land disturbed by construction at each structure base Assumes a radius of 450 feet (total of -15 acres) for turning structures. Assumes a radius of 150 feet (-1 7 acres) for standard tangent structures. Distance between conductor stringing/staging sites Depending on angle structures. approximately every 1 to 4 miles A single 15 -acre laydown yard for the transmission project. The temporary laydown yard location will be identified 30 days prior to the public hearing Land disturbed at each stringing/staging site 450 feet around each structure (-15 acres) Minimum ground clearance beneath conductors 29 feet (This includes NextEra design buffer and correction for altitude) ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application 4.0 Compliance with 1041 Permit Decision Criteria Conformance with 1041 Permit Decision Criteria 21-3-340.A Approval of Permit Application. 1. The health, welfare and safety of the citizens of the County will be protected and served. The Project is entirely based on the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance electric service for customers of Platte River in Estes Park. Fort Collins. Longmont and Loveland. This enhancement will be accomplished in a manner that does not adversely affect the health. welfare. and safety of Weld County residents. The Project is primarily located on City of Fort Collins property with no public access. No negative impacts to public health and safety are anticipated from the Project. The Project area is a relatively remote and rural setting and is very sparsely populated. No residences are within 200 feet. one residence is within 0.25 mile of the Preferred Route. and none of the properties within either the Project area or the Permitting Corridor are open to the public. 2. The natural and economic environment of the County will be protected and enhanced. A comprehensive effort was made to identify a Preferred Route that would have the least potential impact on the land and its natural resources through avoidance (Appendix C). In addition. the Project will be constructed and operated in a manner that will minimize any potential impacts (Appendix E). The Project will avoid or span any wetland areas crossed by the alignment and no disturbance will occur to any wetlands or Waters of the U S. Therefore. it is not anticipated that a permit will be required from the Corps of Engineers under the provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. A careful inventory of wildlife habitat. cultural resources. and other sensitive areas was conducted. The Project avoids all locations with sensitive resources and no long term adverse effects on these resources are anticipated. No designated critical habitat areas will be impacted by the Project. Appropriate avoidance measures (Appendix E) will be implemented during construction to avoid disturbance to sensitive wildlife habitats such as raptor or migratory bird nests and wetland areas. The Project is designed to implement. as necessary. Avian Powerline Interaction Committee (APLIC) electrocution and collision guidelines during operation. The Project will have no direct stormwater discharges. and will not result in disturbance to any streams. lakes. or reservoirs. Surface drainage features will be spanned and no effects to groundwater or aquifers will result from Project construction or operation. Construction and operation of the Project will incorporate measures intended to minimize accidental discharges or any adverse effects on water quality (Appendix E). No long-term adverse effects to water or air quality will result from construction and operation of the Project. The Project has minimal water needs during construction and no water needs during operations. The Project will be designed to minimize the risk of adverse effects on water and air quality resources during construction (Appendix E). In the long term. the project will have a positive effect on regional air quality 9 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application 3. All reasonable alternatives to the proposed action, including use of existing rights -of -way and joint use of rights -of -way wherever uses are compatible, have been adequately assessed and the proposed action is compatible with and represents the best interests of the people of the County and represents a fair and reasonable utilization of resources in the impact area. A complete discussion of the alternatives development and evaluation process is presented in Appendix C. A total of six alternatives were identified for the proposed transmission line through Colorado and these alternatives were evaluated against a set of criteria that reflect the policy guidance contained in the Weld County Comprehensive Plan and 1041 regulations. Three alternatives east of 1-25 were eliminated from further consideration because they involved considerably more impacts than the three alternative routes west of 1-25. The Preferred Route follows existing linear infrastructure rights -of -way (ROWs) to the extent practical and was sited in a manner that minimizes adverse effects on agriculture. residential uses, and the natural setting. These alternatives represent a fair and reasonable utilization of resources in the Siting Area The Weld County portion of the Siting Area is depicted in the 1041 maps presented in Appendix B. 4. A satisfactory program to mitigate and minimize adverse impacts has been presented. See Appendices C and E. 5. The nature and location or expansion of the facility complies with all applicable provisions of the master plan of this County, and other applicable regional, metropolitan, state and national plans. The Project complies with applicable provisions of the Weld County Comprehensive Plan (Table 2) In addition, the Weld County Transportation Plan was reviewed. No conflicts with these plans were identified. Table 2 Compliance with Comprehensive Plan Goals and Policies Goals and Policies Discussion B. The intent of the agricultural goals is to support all forms of the agricultural industry and. at the same time, to protect the rights of the private property owners to convert their agricultural lands to other appropriate land uses. The Project will not adversely affect agricultural uses and will provide improved electrical capacity and reliability F. Land use policies should support a high- quality rural character which respects the agricultural heritage and traditional agricultural land uses of the County. The Project will be compatible with current agricultural uses in the Siting Area. F. The natural landscape and vegetation predominate over the built environment. The Project was sited to minimize visibility from residences and other sensitive viewpoints and designed to reduce visibility through the use of monopoles with a darkened finish. Land crossed by the Project will remain in current uses. Colocation with existing linear disturbances, primarily an active rail line and seven pipelines. minimizes visual impacts and habitat fragmentation. 10 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application Table 2 Compliance with Comprehensive Plan Goals and Policies Goals and Policies Discussion F. Agricultural land uses and development provide the visual landscapes traditionally found in rural areas and communities. The Project will be designed to blend with the natural landscape as much as possible. Monopole structures with a galvanized steel finish will be used to blend in more with the landscape and reduce impacts to visual resources. B. A. Goal 2. Continue the commitment to viable agriculture in Weld County through mitigated protection of established (and potentially expanding) agricultural uses from other proposed new uses that would hinder the operations of the agricultural enterprises. Roundhouse will work with affected landowners in an effort to minimize adverse effects on agricultural use, including transmission structure placement and other construction and operational practices. H. A. Goal 8. Ensure that adequate services and facilities are currently available or reasonably obtainable to accommodate the requested new land use change for more intensive development. No additional public services will be required for the Project. Right to Farm Statement: Agricultural users of the land should not be expected to change their long-established agricultural practices to accommodate the intrusions of urban users into a rural area. Roundhouse will work with affected landowners to minimize adverse effects on agricultural uses. Article III Land Use Section 22-3-40 — Public Facility and Services B. P. Goal 2. Require adequate facilities and services to assure the health, safety and welfare of the present and future residents of the County. The Project provides essential electrical infrastructure for anticipated growth in northern Colorado. Article IV - Environmental Resources Section 22-4-10 — A. Air, water, waste, noise and other public health impacts from proposed land uses should be considered. The Project will implement Best Management Practices (BMPs) relative to noise and public health considerations in the immediate vicinity of the transmission lines. 11 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application Table 2 Compliance with Comprehensive Plan Goals and Policies Goals and Policies Discussion Section 22-4-60 — Noise. Noise is a source of environmental pollution. Exposure to excessive noise levels over prolonged periods can be a threat to public health. The Project will implement BMPs relative to noise considerations in the immediate vicinity of the transmission lines. In order to minimize noise generation during construction, vehicles and equipment will be maintained in proper operating condition and equipped with manufacturers' standard noise -control devices or better (e.g. mufflers, engine enclosures). During the operating phase, corona associated with the transmission line may result in audible noise. Corona is the electrical ionization of the air that occurs near the surface of the energized conductor due to electric fields. Noise levels at the edge of the ROW are anticipated to be barely audible during dry weather periods but may increase during wet weather to a low humming, comparable to the sound of a refrigerator. Article V - Natural Resources Section 22-5-20 - Wildlife A. W. Goal 1. New development should be located and designed to conserve critical ecosystem components, including wetlands, significant wildlife habitats and migration corridors. Site selection, construction techniques and ongoing maintenance procedures have all taken the environment, land use, community design and infrastructure into consideration. See the Siting Study attached as Appendix C and the summary of the evaluation criteria used in the site selection process in Section 3.2.c. The Project avoids locations with sensitive resources to the extent possible and minimal effects on these resources are anticipated No designated critical habitat areas will be impacted by the Project. There are wetlands within the Project area; however, the Project facilities shall be sited so that there is a minimum of a 100 -foot buffer between the poles and any wetland. The Project will have minimal long term impacts on wildlife species, including habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation. BMPs, such as erosion. soil compaction, and sedimentation controls will be utilized to avoid and minimize environmental effects (Appendix E). 12 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application Table 2 Compliance with Comprehensive Plan Goals and Policies Goals and Policies Discussion W.Policy 1.2. Conflicts with fish and wildlife habitats and migration routes should be considered in land development. Developments adjacent to rivers and streams, waterfowl areas and important or critical wildlife areas should incorporate reduced densities. adequate setbacks and buffered areas. Site selection, construction techniques and ongoing maintenance procedures have all taken the environment, land use, community design and infrastructure into consideration. See the Siting Study attached as Appendix C and the summary of the evaluation criteria used in the site selection process in Section 3.2.c. The Project avoids locations with sensitive resources to the extent possible and minimal effects on these resources are anticipated No designated critical habitat areas will be impacted by the Project. The Project will have minor impacts on wildlife species and levels of habitat loss, degradation. and fragmentation. W.Policy 1.3. Identify and attempt to protect critical or unique habitat areas of high public value, such as habitats of endangered or unique species, significant viewing areas and breeding and spawning areas. Site selection, construction techniques and ongoing maintenance procedures have all taken the environment, land use, community design and infrastructure into consideration. See the Siting Study attached as Appendix C and the summary of the evaluation criteria used in the site selection process in Section 3.2.c. The Project avoids locations with sensitive resources to the extent possible and minimal effects on these resources are anticipated No designated critical habitat areas will be impacted by the Project. The Project will have minimal impacts on wildlife species and levels of habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation. No part of the Project is located in a natural hazard area or the 100 -year floodplain. Section 22-5-120 — Other Natural Resources Goals and Policies C. NR. Goal 3. 1. NR.Policy 3.1. Support efforts to limit the loss of soil through wind and water erosion. BMPs, such as erosion, soil compaction, and sedimentation controls will be utilized to avoid and minimize environmental effects (Appendix E). F. NR. Goal 6. Support efforts to record and preserve archeological, cultural and historic resources. A Class I cultural resource literature review of the Siting Area was conducted in May 2018. No known sites on, or eligible for, the State or National Register of Historic Places will be adversely affected by the Project. Potential sites in areas not previously inventoried will be surveyed for cultural resource value prior to Project construction and any newly identified sites will either be avoided or appropriately mitigated. A Class III cultural resource survey of the Permitting Corridor will occur and be provided to the County prior to application for a building permit. All sites located within the Permitting Corridor will be revisited during pre -construction surveys to confirm their location and to confirm that neither construction nor operation of the Project will have any adverse impacts. 13 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application Table 2 Compliance with Comprehensive Plan Goals and Policies Goals and Policies Discussion Section 22-6-20 Economic Development Goals and Policies A. ECON. Goal 1 Encourage the expansion of existing businesses and the location of new industries that will provide employment opportunities in the County The Project will provide new employment opportunities in Weld County during the construction phase. Construction of the Project will support the hiring of approximately 20 employees for temporary jobs during the 12 -month construction period. many of whom are expected to be local residents 3. ECON Policy 1 3 Maintain and improve basic County services and infrastructure. in order to ensure that the County is a viable candidate for attracting businesses, labor and capital B. ECON Goal 2. Support and facilitate public and private economic development efforts that are consistent with the Goals and Policies of the County. The Project will provide improved electrical capacity and reliability for development and attraction of new businesses. labor. and capital The Project will provide improved electrical capacity and reliability for development and attraction of new businesses. labor, and capital. Source Weld County Comprehensive Plan 2008 6. The nature and location or expansion of the facility does not unduly or unreasonably impact existing community services. The Project will have no demand for water or sewer services Access to the Project for construction and operation is available via existing roads and highways. Minimal new road improvements will be required for Project construction and only minimal use of these roads will continue following construction. It is not anticipated that the Project will adversely affect any roads maintained by Weld County. The Project is located in the Nunn Fire Protection District and no impacts to this district are anticipated from construction and operation of the Project. 7. The nature and location or expansion of the facility will not create an expansion of the demand for government services beyond the reasonable capacity of the community or region to provide such services, as determined by the Board of County Commissioners. The Project will not result in any increased demand for government services, including water. sewer. roads. and other services. Additional demands on emergency service providers. e.g. Weld County Sheriff's Office and Nunn Fire Protection District, are not anticipated and would only occur in the unlikely event of an accident or other unforeseen event. 8. The facility site or expansion area is not in an area with general meteorological and climatological conditions which would unreasonably interfere with or obstruct normal operations and maintenance. The Project will be designed to effectively and safely operate under expected meteorological conditions. 14 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application 9. The nature and location of the facility or expansion will not adversely affect the water rights of any upstream, downstream or agricultural users, adjacent communities or other water users. The Project has minimal water needs during construction and no water needs during operations. The Project will be designed to minimize the risk of adverse effects on water resources during construction (Appendix E) 10. Adequate water supplies are available for facility needs. See Number 9 above. 11. The nature and location of the facility or expansion will not unduly interfere with existing easements, rights -of -way, other utilities, canals, mineral claims or roads. Roundhouse does not anticipate that the Project will interfere with existing easements. ROWs. other utilities. canals. or mineral interests, Roundhouse will negotiate easements or other access agreements on a willing seller basis. As previously discussed, construction access for materials and workforce will be from existing roads, primarily 1-25 (State maintained). Larimer County roads. and the old U.S. Hwy 87 (privately maintained). WCR-128 is the only road in Weld County that may experience some construction traffic. This segment. which extends for a distance of approximately 1.400 feet. is located between the I-25/Carr Exit and the Larimer County line. From these existing roads. construction and operations personnel would then continue to the Project site. Roundhouse will work with willing landowners to obtain an access easement if access directly off a public road or within the Project area is not feasible. 12. Adequate electric, gas, telephone, water, sewage and other utilities exist or shall be developed to service the site. As previously discussed, the Project will have negligible needs for utility services. 13. The nature and location for expansion of the facility will not unduly interfere with any significant wildlife habitat or adversely affect any endangered wildlife species, unique natural resource or historic landmark within the impact area. The Project avoids locations with sensitive resources to the extent possible and minimal effects on these resources are anticipated (Section 21 -3 -330.B.7 —Natural and Socioeconomic Environmental Impacts from Construction of the Project). No designated critical habitat areas will be impacted by the Project. Black -tailed prairie dog colonies will be avoided to the extent possible_ Appendix C presents a thorough analysis of wildlife species and habitats in the Siting Area. Appropriate avoidance measures (Appendix E) will be implemented during construction to avoid sensitive wildlife habitats such as raptor or migratory bird nests and wetland areas. The Project is designed to implement. as necessary, APLIC electrocution and collision guidelines during operation. 14. The nature and location or expansion of the facility, including expected growth and development related to the operation and provision of service, will not significantly deteriorate water or air quality in the impact area. Construction activities associated with the Project would not generate significant amounts of air pollution or particulate matter from soil disturbances There will be no long-term air quality effects associated with routine operation and maintenance of the proposed transmission line 15 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application and substation. Measures to reduce dust generation and other emissions are presented in Appendix E. Air quality will be improved by the resultant reduction in emissions in the region. Overall. the Project will have a positive impact on air quality. Furthermore. the project will have no direct discharges or other sources of contamination that present a risk to water quality. In addition to measures intended to prevent spillage or other leakage of contaminants during construction. the BMPs outlined in Appendix E are intended to minimize ground disturbance. erosion, soil compaction, and sedimentation. The Project will comply with all applicable water quality regulations for construction. Projects with a disturbance footprint over one acre are required to obtain a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. These permits are acquired through application to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). The Project has been sited to avoid disturbance of any wetland/waterbody features. 15. The geological and topographic features of the site are adequate for all construction, clearing, grading, drainage, vegetation and other needs of the facility construction or expansion. No geologic hazards or steep slopes exist along the Permitting Corridor. The Project will be designed to minimize adverse effects on soil. vegetation, and agricultural resources (Appendix E) and all Project structures will be designed to accommodate the geotechnical and soil conditions that occur within the Project area. 16. The existing water quality of affected state waters will not be degraded below state and federal standards or established baseline levels. The Project will have no direct stormwater discharges. and will not result in disturbance to any streams. lakes. or reservoirs Surface drainage features will be spanned. Construction and operation of the Project will incorporate measures intended to minimize accidental discharges or any adverse effects on water quality (Appendix E)_ 17. The proposed project will not have a significantly adverse net effect on the capacities or functioning of streams, lakes and reservoirs in the impact area, nor on the permeability, volume, recharge capability and depth of aquifers in the impact area. The Project has minimal water needs during construction and no water needs during operation. The Project will not result in any direct discharges. and will not result in disturbance to any streams. lakes. or reservoirs. It is unlikely the Project will affect subsurface drainage. groundwater or aquifers. No water wells will be drilled for the Project. Excavations for transmission structures may contact very shallow groundwater: however. the groundwater contact will be unlikely to adversely impact this resource because of BMPs as stipulated in the Projects Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasures Plan and Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan that will be implemented during construction. Techniques to avoid and minimize groundwater impacts will include properly maintaining equipment and cleaning up any spills. After application of mitigation measures and BMPs. impacts to groundwater will be negligible and temporary in duration. 18. The benefits of the proposed developments outweigh the losses of any natural resources or reduction of productivity of agricultural lands as a result of the proposed development. 16 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application The Project will have minimal effects on natural resources, including wildlife habitat. wetlands. and other natural features (see Section 2.4.6) Construction of the transmission line may have minor, short-term effects on livestock grazing through displacement. Roundhouse will work with affected landowners in an effort to minimize adverse effects on agricultural use, including transmission structure placement and other construction and operational practices. 19. The applicant has obtained or will obtain all property rights, permits and approvals necessary for the proposed project, including surface, mineral and water rights and easements for drainage, disposal, utilities, access, etc. If the applicant has not obtained all necessary property rights, permits and approvals, the Board may, at its discretion, grant the permit conditioned upon completion of the acquisition of such rights prior to issuance of a zoning or building permit by the County. Roundhouse is in the process of acquiring the necessary easements for the Project. primarily from the City of Fort Collins. Colorado State Land Board, and Duck Creek Grazing Association. Following the Board's approval of this Application. Roundhouse will acquire all land rights needed to construct and operate the Project. All of the land rights will be recorded with the Weld County Clerk and Recorder prior to the start of the construction. Roundhouse cannot commence construction until the necessary land rights have been secured. 20. The proposed project (nonlinear facilities) will not present an unreasonable risk of exposure to or release of toxic or hazardous substances within the impact area. The determination of effects of the project shall include the following considerations: The means by which outdoor storage facilities for fuel, raw materials, equipment and related items are adequately enclosed by a fence or wall. The likelihood of hazardous materials or wastes being moved off the site by natural causes or forces. Containment of inflammable or explosive liquids, solids or gases. The Project is a linear facility: therefore. not applicable. See Appendix E for applicable Environmental Protection Measures. 21. The scope and nature of the proposed Project will not unnecessarily duplicate existing services within the County. No duplication of existing services will result from the Project. 22. If the purpose and need for the proposed project are to meet the needs of an increasing population within the County, the area and community development plans and population trends demonstrate clearly a need for such development. The Project will serve the increasing population of northern Colorado Table 3 presents population data for counties and communities in northern Colorado (U.S. Census Bureau 2017). The growth rates shown in Table 3 are anticipated to continue into the future. 17 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application Table 3 Population in Northern Colorado Population Data Fort Collins Loveland Longmont Larimer County Weld County Colorado 2030 Projections -- -- -- 424,052 453,421 6,733,658 July 1, 2017 Population Estimates 165,080 76,701 94,341 343,976 304,633 5,607,154 Census Population April 1, 2010 144,651 66,890 86,307 299,628 252,839 5,029,325 Percent Change 14.1 14.7 9.3 14.8 20.5 11.5 18 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application 5.0 Areas and Activities of State Interest — 1041 Application Requirements 21-3-330 Application Submittal Requirements 21-3-330.A Application Requirements for a Major Facility of a Public Utility These submittal requirements apply to this Application for a development permit for a major facility of a public utility. as defined in Chapter 21-3-20 of the Code (Weld County 2016). The 1041 Permit Checklist is provided with this Application in Section 2.0. Potential impacts have been largely avoided through a careful and collaborative siting process with the City of Fort Collins (Appendix C). Residual impacts on environmental resources are mitigatable as described below and in Appendix E. The Project will consider the comments of Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) and other referral agencies for this permit application in the design and construction of the transmission line. 21-3-330.8 Application Submittal Requirements 21-3-330.B.1 — Map Requirements 21-3-330.B.1.a — Name and Acreage of Proposed Use The Projects proposed use includes 3.9 miles of single -circuit 230kV-capable transmission lines that will extend from the state line through Weld County to the Larimer County line (Appendix B, Map 1, Vicinity Map). The surface area for the transmission structures in Weld County will total approximately 0.04 acre. Approximately 70.9 acres will be required for the 150 -foot -wide easement in Weld County. The Project also requires temporary staging areas used for the duration of construction to store equipment and stage construction activities. The locations of temporary staging areas are yet to be determined_ Each staging area will house construction trailers. multiple storage containers, and other associated equipment. 21-3-330.B.1.b — Map Requirements All map requirements, including scale and content required by Weld Countyhave been met. 21-3-330.B.1.c — Applicant and Consultants Applicant: Roundhouse Renewables. LLC Attention: Ryan Fitzpatrick 700 Universe Blvd. Juno Beach. FL 33408 ryan.fitzpatrick@nexteraenergy.com 970-227-1513 Consultant: Logan Simpson Attention: Jeremy Call 213 Linden Street, Suite 300 Fort Collins. Colorado 80524 call�logansimpson.com 970-449-4100 19 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application 21-3-330.B.2 - Title Information 21-3-330.B.2.a — Surface Property Owners and Real Property Interests The names and addresses of all owners of surface property and real property within 500 feet of the Project are presented in Table 4. The persons or entities with an interest in any real property disturbed or crossed by the Project will be provided. if required, following approval of this Application. Table 4 Surface Property Owners and Real Property Interests within 500 feet of the Preferred Route Parcel Name Address City State Zip Code 005119100001 Duck Creek Grazing Assn Inc. do Jerry Sidwell PO Box 597 Eaton CO 80615-0597 005120200008 State of Colorado 1127 N Sherman St, Suite 300 Denver CO 80203-2398 005120400007 City of Fort Collins PO Box 580 Fort Collins CO 80522-0580 005129200004 City of Fort Collins PO Box 580 Fort Collins CO 80522-0580 005130100001 City of Fort Collins PO Box 580 Fort Collins CO 80522-0580 0051 31 1 00002 City of Fort Collins PO Box 580 Fort Collins CO 80522-0580 020106200001 City of Fort Collins PO Box 580 Fort Collins CO 80522-0580 020106200002 City of Fort Collins PO Box 580 Fort Collins CO 80522-0580 20 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application 21-3-330.B.2.a Affidavit of Mailing List Accuracy Jeremy Call . hereby certify that the mailing labels include all names and addresses of the surrounding property owners within five hundred (500) feet of the property are complete and accurate. consistent with the Larimer County Assessors records Date: December 7. 2018 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application 21-3-330.B.2.b — Project Access Construction and maintenance access for the Project will be determined following approval of this Application. Only a small portion of the Project easement will be disturbed for structure installation and vehicle access. Much of the easement can be accessed from existing local roads and the only Weld County Road that might be utilized for construction access is a segment of WCR-128 for a distance of approximately 1.400 feet west of the I-25/Carr Exit. Once in the easement. vehicle access will remain within the easement whenever possible. In areas where construction access is required outside of the easement. temporary easements will be secured to support construction. No easements or other forms of access agreements have been acquired at this time. The proposed transmission line will not cross or be parallel to any Weld County roads. 21-3-330.B.2.c — Real Property Interests The names and addresses of all persons or entities with an interest in any real property within 500 feet of the Preferred Route are provided in Table 4 21-3-330.6.2.d — Mineral Interests The Mineral Interests requirement is not applicable to electric transmission line projects per Section 21-3-330.B.2.d and 24-65.5-201. Colorado Revised Statutes. 21-3-330.B.3 — Application Submittal Requirements 21-3-330.B.3.a-c — Map Requirements Maps required for this Application are included in PDF format in Appendix B at a scale of 24 inches x 36 inches. These maps will be delineated on reproducible material upon Weld County's request. The maps are consistent with the requirements of Section 21-3-330.B.3 and the relevant subsections thereof. 21-3-330.6.3.d — 1041 Permit Map and Vicinity Map The Project 1041 Permit Map / Vicinity Map is provided in Appendix B, Map 1, Vicinity Map 21-3-330.6.4 — Plot Plan For purposes of analysis. a preliminary centerline was defined for the Preferred Route. This preliminary centerline was used to calculate distances from residences and the other considerations included in the route evaluation criteria (Appendix C. Table 4-1). It should be recognized that the preliminary centerline is subject to adjustment following further consultation with landowners and more detailed project design. In order to provide a reasonable degree of flexibility to accommodate landowner preferences and minimize potential conflicts. a Permitting Corridor was defined with a width of 300 to 500 feet depending on routing constraints (See Appendix B. Map 1. Vicinity Map). The Permitting Corridor includes the permanent 150 -foot -wide easement (75 feet on either side of the centerline) and the temporary construction easement. The temporary construction easement also includes a radius of 450 feet around angle structures where staging and stringing activities may occur. Easements will be executed and recorded with the County prior to construction. This Application to Weld County requests approval of the proposed corridor with an allowance for centerline adjustments within this defined corridor if merited. The actual easement will be no 22 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application greater than 150 feet in width. Easements and an as -built centerline will be provided to Weld County following construction 21-3-330.B.5 - Other Items and Information 21-3-330.B.5.a - Present Use and Zoning The portion of the Project in Weld County is located within unincorporated land in the A (Agricultural) Zone District (Appendix B, Map 2, Existing Land Uses) Existing land uses in this area are primarily agricultural rangeland and wildlife habitat. The Burlington Northern Railroad and 1-25 are also within this portion of the Siting Area. 21-3-330.B.5.b-d - Sketch or Map In Appendix B, Map 2, Existing Land Uses shows existing transmission lines of 230kV or greater within 2 miles of the Project 21-3-330.B.5.e — Type of Facility The portion of the Project in Weld County consists of 3.9 miles of 230kV-capable single -circuit transmission line from the state line to the Larimer County line. The Project will be constructed on steel monopole structures within a 150 -foot -wide easement. The transmission line will consist of approximately 26 structures. with up to three conductors. a shield wire. and an optical ground wire for internal Roundhouse communications. The Project will also include staging areas used for the duration of construction to store equipment and stage construction activities. Each staging area will house any necessary construction trailers. multiple storage containers. and other associated equipment. The locations of the staging areas will be determined following approval of this Application. 21-3-330.B.5.f - Projected Development Schedule Siting and permitting activities commenced in Q1 of 2018. As presented in Table 5. permitting is planned to conclude in February 2019. In addition to the Weld County 1041 Permit, a 1041 Permit is required for approval by Larimer County. Easement agreements will be negotiated with the private landowners. Roundhouse has applied to the City of Fort Collins for an easement across the Ranch. The wind farm and associated transmission lines in Wyoming will be permitted separately. The anticipated Project schedule is presented in Table 5. Table 5 Project Development Schedule Milestone Date 1041 Pre -Application meetings with Larimer County June — July 2018 Presentations to City of Fort Collins Water Board. Land Conservation and Stewardship Board. Natural Resources and Advisory Board. Energy Board. City Council. and Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce Public Open House and landowner meetings August - December 2018 Water Board recommendation to City Council, 1041 Permit application review by Larimer and Weld Counties December — January 2019 Larimer and Weld Counties Planning Commission and Board of County Commissioners public hearings Fort Collins City Council consideration of ordinance approving transmission line easement January — February 2019 23 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application Table 5 Project Development Schedule Milestone Date Project design and additional environmental investigations. including pre -construction surveys Spring — Fall 2019 Project construction and completion 2019 - 2020 21-3-330.B.5.g — Hazards and Emergency Procedures The Project involves the use of voltages up to 230kV. In order to protect the health, safety. and welfare of the public, the Project will be constructed to all applicable State and Federal laws and regulations. The Project will be in compliance with Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) requirements regarding electromagnetic field (EMF) levels around the transmission line. The Colorado PUC EMF limits are 150 milligauss at the edge of the ROW. one meter above ground. The Project has been sited to minimize proximity to (prudently avoid) residences as required by 4 CCR 723-3. Rules Regulating Electric Utilities. Section 3102. Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity for Facilities, Section (d). No residences are located within 1/4 mile of the Preferred Route. Because EMF levels diminish rapidly with distance. the levels would diminish to levels consistent with the background near the edge of the ROW Enclosed containment will be provided for all trash All construction waste. including trash and litter, garbage. other solid waste. petroleum products. and other potentially hazardous materials will be removed from the site and transported to a disposal facility authorized to accept such materials. There will be no significant amount of hazardous materials stored in the Project corridor Construction. operation. and maintenance activities will comply with all applicable Federal. State. and local laws and regulations regarding the use of hazardous substances Hazardous materials will not be drained onto the ground or into streams or drainage areas. The Roundhouse contract with the construction contractor will specify that it will hold a required pre -construction meeting with the contractor to ensure all applicable laws and Roundhouse procedures will be followed. Environmental Protection Measures are included in Appendix E. All Project activities will incorporate BMPs that will prevent any environmental damage or contamination. Any use of hazardous material during construction or operations and maintenance activities will be temporary and stored in a safe manner according to all applicable state and Federal laws and regulations. No known natural hazards are present within the Siting Area. 21-3-330.B.5.h — Name, Address. and Telephone of Applicant Roundhouse Renewables. LLC Attention: Ryan Fitzpatrick 700 Universe Blvd Juno Beach. FL 33408 ryanfitzpatrick@nexteraenergy.com 970-227-1513 24 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application 21-3-330.B5.i - Name and Address of the Fee Owners of the Property The fee owners are the same as those listed in Section 21-3-330.B.2.c of this Application. 21-3-330.B.5.j - Legal Description of the Property under Consideration The final legal descriptions for properties impacted by the Project will be provided after approval of the Application. but no later than the start of construction. The legal descriptions for the non- exclusive electric transmission line easements will be recorded with the Weld County Clerk and Recorder before construction commences. 21-3-330.B.5.k - Total Acreage of the Parcel, ROW, or Corridor under Consideration The surface area occupied by transmission line structures in Weld County will total approximately 0.04 acre. Approximately 70.9 acres will be required for the 150 -foot -wide transmission line easement. 21-3-330.6.5.1— Existing Land Use The portion of the Project in Weld County will be constructed on State. municipal. and grazing association land. Land uses in the Siting Area are primarily agricultural rangeland. wildlife habitat, oil and gas pipelines. the Burlington Northern Railroad. and 1-25. 21-3-330.B.5.m - Existing Land Uses of All Properties Adjacent to Parcels The primary land use on adjacent parcels is agricultural rangeland and wildlife habitat (Appendix B, Map 2, Existing Land Uses). The Project is parallel to an active rail line and a pipeline corridor for nearly the entire distance through Weld County. More details on land uses in areas crossed by the Project are provided in Appendix C 21-3-330.6.5.n - Zoning and Overlay Zones All of the parcels within the Project corridor are zoned Agricultural. 21-3-330.6.5.o - Signatures of the Applicant and Fee Owners or Their Authorized Legal Agent See USR Questionnaire Form. 21-3-330.8.6 - Natural and Socioeconomic Environmental Constraints Affecting Site Selection and Construction A variety of natural. land use and other criteria were considered and avoided in the development and selection of the proposed route for the Project. These included residential and agricultural uses. as well as a variety of natural. cultural. and visual resource considerations. 21-3-330.8.7 — Natural and Socioeconomic Environmental Impacts from Construction of the Project The effects of the Project on the natural environment and land use and methods to minimize and mitigate these impacts are described below. Additional information is provided in Appendix C and Appendix E. 25 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application a. Land Use Impacts The Code, Chapter 22, Comprehensive Plan, has been reviewed and the Project is consistent with the intent of this Plan. including land use and environmental resources. The Project will be located in an area that is primarily used for agriculture (livestock grazing) and wildlife habitat. The Project has been sited to minimize effects on these uses and to assure that only a minor, localized effect will occur. Agricultural activities can continue within the Project easement and only a small amount of land will be taken out of production as a result of construction and operation Each transmission structure will occupy an area of approximately 19-39 square feet around each pole that would have a direct embed foundation and approximately 28-78.5 square feet around poles that would require a drilled shaft foundation. In total. less than 0.04 acre will be occupied by transmission structures. In all cases. landowners will be compensated for any land rights acquired for the Project and reimbursed for any damages resulting from Project construction. Impacts on agricultural operations will be further reduced by implementing the following mitigation measures: Modify Structure/Easement Location and Construction Timing • Mitigation measures will be implemented as necessary to avoid land use conflicts. Typically. careful siting and spanning can be used to reduce potential operational and maintenance impacts. During periods of heavy precipitation. construction activities will be temporarily halted, barring an emergency situation. Maintain and Repair Fences, Gates and Other Improvements • To minimize impacts on grazing operations, fences and gates will be replaced or repaired to their original condition as required by the landowner in the event that they are removed, damaged, or destroyed by construction activities. Temporary gates or enclosures will be installed only with the permission of the landowner and will be removed following construction. Temporary gates will be kept closed and locked. depending on landowner agreements Coordinated Livestock Management During Project construction, it may be necessary to relocate livestock from areas where heavy equipment operations are taking place. Arrangements will be made with landowners and livestock owners to keep livestock out of these areas during the specific construction periods. In addition. Appendix E presents Environmental Protection Measures for the Project. Through careful siting of the Project. direct effects to other land uses were minimized. Recreational Use Areas No direct impacts on any State or local parks, trails. or other recreational use areas will occur as a result of the Project. b. Water Resources Impacts Wetlands and surface hydrology features are shown in Appendix B, Map 3, Wetlands and Surface Hydrology. Construction and maintenance of the Project will not measurably impact surface water or groundwater quality. Additionally. there will be no long-term impacts to surface water or groundwater hydrology as a result of construction or operation of the Project. The Project will not impact hydrologic flow of either surface water or groundwater. nor will it affect groundwater 26 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application recharge. The Project will span any wetland/waterbody features, as required. BMPs, such as erosion. soil compaction. and sedimentation controls. will be implemented to avoid and minimize environmental effects. The project will have no direct discharges or other sources of contamination that present a risk to water quality. In addition to measures intended to prevent spillage or other leakage of contaminants during construction. the BMPs outlined in Appendix E are intended to minimize ground disturbance. erosion. soil compaction. and sedimentation. The Project will comply with all applicable water quality regulations for construction. Projects with a disturbance footprint over one acre are required to obtain a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. These permits are acquired through application to the CDPHE. Minimal water will be used during Project construction. Water for construction purposes. including concrete foundations and dust control_ will be brought in from off -site sources by a construction water provider. The source of the construction water will be from either a private well owned by the construction water company or from a municipality. No existing water rights will be impacted. and there will be no long-term use of water. If water is needed for revegetation around transmission structures or temporary access roads. the construction water provider will supply the water. No water will be required for the operation of the Project_ It is unlikely that the Project will affect groundwater. No water wells will be drilled for the Project. Excavations for transmission structures may contact very shallow groundwater: however. the groundwater contact will be unlikely to adversely impact this resource because of BMPs that will be implemented during construction Techniques to avoid and minimize groundwater impacts will include properly maintaining equipment and cleaning up any spills. After application of mitigation measures and BMPs. impacts to groundwater will be negligible and temporary in duration_ Wetlands. floodplains. streambed meander limits. recharge areas. and riparian areas The Project would have no impacts to wetlands. creeks and streams. seeps and springs. or rare plant habitats (Appendix B, Map 3, Wetlands, Riparian Areas, Surface Hydrology, and Floodplains). Transmission structures will not be placed in wetlands. streambeds. recharge areas. or riparian areas. Therefore, little or no adverse impacts are anticipated to occur to surface water resources. BMPs. such as erosion. soil compaction. and sedimentation controls. will be implemented (Appendix E). The site grading for structure foundations will be designed to preserve the pre -development drainage pattern as much as possible. No significant changes to the drainage pattern and no paved (impervious) access roads are proposed. No regulated floodplains are within the Project area in Weld County. Project structures will be designed to withstand flood events. Further. the design and placement of transmission structures will be done in a manner that minimizes any effects on flood flows. The Project is not anticipated to impact vested water rights because minimal water will be utilized. All water used for Project construction will come from existing. commercial sources. which will be identified and secured prior to construction. 27 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application c. Discussion of Impacts on Additional Resources Including Significant Environmentally Sensitive Factors ;satisfies 21-3-330.C.2c and 21-3-330.C.2e) A thorough Transmission Siting Study for the Project was developed and is included in Appendix C. The Project has also incorporated the analysis and recommendations presented in the Energy by Design Report (The Nature Conservancy 2013). Additional field surveys have been conducted and environmental data has been obtained from additional sources (Appendix G). One purpose of Energy by Design is to identify suitable locations for energy development. Per that study, the preferred area for energy development is shown in red in Figure 3. overlaid by the Preferred Route (2B. in green). Note that the Preferred Route largely within the Preferred Surface Occupancy corridor along the railroad. Vegetation Land cover within the Siting Area is shown in Appendix B, Map 4, Land Cover. As previously noted. the great majority of the area is comprised of agricultural rangeland. The vegetation is characterized as shortgrass prairie and is dominated by species such as blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis). buffalo grass (Bouteloua dactyloides), western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii). and needle and thread grass (Stipa comota). Scattered riparian vegetation exists along drainages includes plains cottonwood (Populus deltoides) and narrowleaf cottonwood (Populus angustifolia). Effects to vegetation will be minimal and largely limited to short-term effects during construction. A total of less than 0.04 acres will be permanently occupied by transmission structures in Weld County. Suitable habitat for the federally threatened Colorado butterfly plant (Gaura neomexicana var coloradensis) exists in Weld County In June 2018. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) proposed removing this species from protected status. Known populations of this species are south of the Siting Area, east of 1-25. If the Colorado butterfly plant is identified prior to construction. Roundhouse will consider recommendations from USFWS and the City of Fort Collins in the design of the transmission line in order to avoid and mitigate potential impacts_ Appendix E contains Environmental Protection Measures for the Project. • Access for construction and maintenance activities will primarily be via existing roads. The availability of access roads assures that vegetation disturbance will be minimal. Through careful siting and implementation of BMPs and Environmental Protection Measures, no drainages or wetlands will be impacted by the Project. • A minimal amount of vegetation removal will occur at the base of each transmission structure. Temporary impacts to vegetation will also result in periodic compaction of existing vegetation and soil from construction traffic within the Project easement and designated access roads. These impacts will be shod -term in duration and focused in location. and the disturbed areas will be re -seeded with approved local, native seed mixes after clearing, in coordination with the landowner. Environmental Protection Measures will be implemented to minimize erosion. protect native plant communities. prevent erosion and noxious weed infestations, and support native plant re- establishment. 28 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application Figure 3 Energy by Design Map (2013), overlaid with Preferred Alternative Project Area Boundaries 51.8 Mineral Ownership Preferred Route rs ritienti7/.//7,, Ster 111 :Nr ti\,..1*;‘)4a Ate"'. `► r ��it�,'e� � / I i �I "`�st �` t v ,.. %14) •.S1‘,„‘...\ I iJ4SI444L Vol 01 :rill ‘1 Roads and Railroads "'interstate 25 "/Primary roads "/ Secondary roads 4-wd only "/ Railroads Occupancy for All Resources Pref►rred Surface Occupancy IPSO) Controlled Surface Occupancy (CSO) Limited Surface Occupancy 115O) No Surface Occupancy (NSO) 4 S Mies Sale L1l0AW Wildlife The Siting Area supports a variety of common wildlife. such as big game, small predators (e.g., coyote. fox). prey species (e.g.. rabbits. black -tailed prairie dog) and birds (e.g.. waterfowl. raptors. passerines). There are no known occurrences of special status species or their habitats within 0.5 mile of the preferred alternative in Weld County. There is no designated critical wildlife habitat in the Siting Area. although suitable habitat exists for the state -listed (threatened) western burrowing owl. Chapter 3 of Appendix C presents a thorough discussion of wildlife and special status species and habitats in the Siting Area. In addition, species occurrence and habitats are thoroughly inventoried and presented in the Energy by Design Report (available at: https://www.conservationgateway.org/Files/Pages/m2penergybydesign.aspx). which is incorporated by reference. Specific environmental factors that were evaluated in the Siting Study (Appendix C) and the Energy by Design Report include: • Pronghorn winter concentration areas. 29 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application • Mule deer severe and critical winter ranges: • Swift fox den sites: • Black -footed ferret habitat and reintroduction sites; • Black -tailed prairie dog colonies: and • Northern leopard frog (wetland habitat). The Weld County segment of the Project would not cross over mapped black -tailed prairie dog colonies. which correspond to potential habitat for black -footed ferret, western burrowing owl. and mountain plover. Route 2B would cross 20.508 feet through pronghorn winter concentration areas and 8,135 feet through mule deer severe winter range. Wetlands will be spanned; therefore no impacts to northern leopard frog habitat are anticipated. Raptor Species • Known bald eagle nests. • Known ferruginous hawk nests: • Known golden eagle nests: • Known prairie falcon nests: • Known Swainson's hawk nests: • Known western burrowing owl nests (black -tailed prairie dog colonies); and • Known owl and other raptor nests. Raptor nests vary annually in activity. species using the nest. and location. New nests are constructed each year and existing nests are discontinued or destroyed The Siting Study for the Project evaluated the length of each route in feet within 0.25 mile of known raptor nests. The Project (Route 2B) crosses a total of 1.240 feet (0.23 mile) within 0.25 mile of a known raptor nest. Pre -construction surveys will be conducted for raptor nests and appropriate avoidance measures will be implemented (Appendix E). Other Avian Species • Chestnut -collared longspur breeding areas: • Lark bunting core areas: • McCown's longspur core areas, and • Mountain plover staging areas and nest/repeat detection areas. The Siting Study for the Project evaluated the length of the route in feet in proximity to chestnut - collared longspur breeding areas. lark bunting core areas. and McCown's longspur core areas_ The number of mountain plover staging areas and nest/repeat detection buffers crossed by the potential center line was also calculated. The Weld County segment of the Project does not cross within 300 feet of chestnut -collared longspur breeding areas. within 450 feet of lark bunting core or McCown's longspur core areas. or mountain plover staging areas or nest/repeat detection buffers. 30 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application The federally endangered black -footed ferret is bred in a captive breeding facility in Larimer County. in the southeast portion of the Siting Area. As described in Appendix C. the City of Fort Collins has a Safe Harbor Agreement with the USFWS for this species_ The Safe Harbor Agreement absolves Roundhouse from compliance and mitigation responsibilities for black -footed ferrets. However. Roundhouse will employ Environmental Protection Measures to reduce effects to black -footed ferrets to the extent feasible. Black -footed ferrets have been reintroduced into black -tailed prairie dog colonies in the Siting Area and elsewhere. The Weld County portion of the Siting Area is not near any ferret reintroduction sites. Black -tailed prairie dog colonies will be avoided to the extent possible. Roundhouse will consider recommendations from USFWS and the City of Fort Collins in the design of the transmission line in order to avoid and mitigate potential impacts to this species. Appendix E contains Environmental Protection Measures for the Project. Site reconnaissance surveys were conducted in June 2018 throughout the Siting Area. Surveys documented field conditions. wetland areas, black -tailed prairie dog colonies. and raptor and other migratory bird nests and species occurrences. These surveys were conducted to inform the Siting Study (Appendix C). Roundhouse will consider recommendations by the City of Fort Collins. CPW. and USFWS to minimize impacts on wildlife species and habitats. such as conducting pre -construction nest surveys. establishing appropriate nest buffer zones. and conducting pre -construction presence/absence surveys for state -listed and other sensitive species. Impacts to surface vegetation can reduce foraging habitat from direct disturbance as well as indirectly from increases in noxious weeds: habitat loss. degradation. and fragmentation: and noise and human disturbance. The potential for the introduction and/or spread of noxious weeds will be minimized by implementing BMPs such as ensuring construction equipment is cleaned. using weed -free seed mixes and controlling noxious weeds within the easement. Above -ground transmission lines pose a risk of collision impacts to birds. To reduce impacts to birds. APLIC guidelines will be considered and implemented in coordination with the City of Fort Collins. CPW. and USFWS. Mitigation and monitoring measures will be implemented, as appropriate. in coordination with CPW. USFWS. and the City of Fort Collins. For example. if construction occurs during the breeding season. pre -construction surveys will be conducted by a qualified avian biologist to avoid impacts to nesting migratory birds. If nests are identified. appropriate buffer distances will be established for the species until the nest is determined fledged by a qualified avian biologist_ Impacts to Soil Resources The Project will create short-term. localized impacts on soil resources. which could result in the potential reduction of surficial soil quality_ Surface disturbance during construction may increase the potential for erosion, such as removal of protective vegetation and expose soil to potential wind and water erosion. Impacts will result from soil disturbance due to heavy machinery traveling along the Project easement during construction. General construction traffic will be limited to designated access roads in an effort to minimize impacts to soils. • The areas affected by construction will be reclaimed as soon as possible. which may include regrading and revegetation with approved local. native seed mixes. in 31 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application coordination with the landowner. BMPs such as erosion, soil compaction, and sedimentation controls will be utilized to avoid and minimize environmental effects (Appendix E). In Appendix B. Maps 9 and 10, the Soil Erodibility by Water and Soil Erodibility by Wind display the soil erodibility by water and wind, respectively, based on factor K within the Siting Area. The factor K is a measurement of the soil's susceptibility to sheet and rill erosion by water: it is calculated as a function of an average diameter of the soil particles. Factor K is one of six factors used in the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation to predict annual rate of soil loss in tons per acre per year. Factor K values range from 0.02 to 0.69. with higher values indicating higher losses. As shown in Appendix B. Soil Erodibility by Water Map. most soils in the Siting Area have low to moderate risk of erosion from water. However, soils in the Siting Area have a higher degree of susceptibility to wind erosion. including some areas ranked as severe risk_ The BMPs provided in Appendix E are intended in part to minimize erosion. Map 8 in Appendix B, the Soil Shrink/Swell Potential Map displays the linear extensibility. or soil shrink/swell potential, in the Siting Area. Shrink/swell potential of a soil is based on the change in length of an unconfined clod as moisture content is decreased from a moist to a dry state. The majority of the soils in the Siting area have a low shrink/swell potential. with small areas of moderate or high potential. These areas can be readily addressed with proper foundation design. Unique Areas of Geologic. Historic. or Archaeological Importance Impacts A Class I cultural resource literature review of the Siting Area was conducted in May 2018. Four previously recorded sites are eligible for listing in the NRHP with State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) concurrence and one site pending SHPO concurrence. All of the sites eligible to the NRHP are transportation related: associated with a historic railroad or the old U.S. Hwy 87. All of the sites eligible or considered eligible for the NRHP will be avoided by the Preferred Route. which does not cross the railroad or the old U.S. Hwy 87 nor have access roads or temporary construction staging areas within the railroad easement. A Class III cultural resource survey of the proposed corridor will occur prior to application for a building permit. All sites located within the preferred corridor will be revisited during pre -construction surveys to confirm their location and reassess their eligibility to the NRHP. Roundhouse conducted a file search through the Colorado SHPO database to identify previously recorded cultural resource sites within the Siting Area. No effects to any historic properties are anticipated to result from Project construction or operation. The Natural Fort near Carr. Colorado is a group of natural sandstone outcroppings next to I-25_ The area is the site of a historic Native American battle and was previously a rest stop along 1-25. The Natural Fort is within the Weld County portion of the Siting Area. but well outside the Preferred Route alignment. There are no other areas of unique geology or geologic importance in the Siting Area. The Project is designed to minimize additional habitat fragmentation by co -location with existing linear disturbances (roads. railroads, pipelines, and transmission lines) for most of its length. The Project was sited to avoid crossing ridgelines. which are present near the 1-25 corridor in the northern portion of the siting area. 32 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application d. Visual Impacts The Project will contribute incrementally to alteration of the visual quality of the Siting Area. In Weld County the Project will parallel the Burlington Northern Railroad on the west side of the tracks. Colocation with existing linear disturbances will minimize new impacts to visual resources. The Preferred Route is the furthest west alternative. none of the alignment is located within 0.5 mile of 1-25. a distance that serves to reduce the visibility and dominance of the transmission line. The Projects location west of the railroad would screen new access roads or ground disturbance from most views along 1-25. The Project has been sited to avoid proximity to. or crossing of, any designated -special places- in Weld County or prominent ridgelines. The Project is located approximately 1 mile west of the Natural Fort site. located along I-25. in Weld County. The Project will be at least 3.5 miles from any public trails_ The Project was sited to parallel existing infrastructure and to avoid crossing ridgelines. which are present near the 1-25 corridor. The Project will not be located within any designated scenic areas or other areas protected to maintain their natural qualities. Priority consideration was given to siting the Project away from residences to the extent possible to reduce visibility. No residences are located within 0.25 mile of the transmission route. Visual impacts will be reduced through the use of non-specular conductors (wires) that will reduce potential glint and glare associated with standard aluminum conductors. Visibility from 1-25 will be low to moderate due to the Proposed Routes distance from the highway. which ranges from approximately 0 5 to 1.75 mile. see Appendix F. Figure 4. Figure 4 also depicts the Projects visibility from the Natural Fort historic site. which is located approximately 1 mile to the east. along 1-25. Structures shown in the photographic simulations are 130 feet tall: the actual height will be between 100 and 120 feet tall. Final design and construction may result in slight changes to pole locations and/or spans along the Preferred Route The simulated transmission line is approximately 0.5 miles from the viewer. The Project would not be visible from any other public or important viewpoints in Weld County e. Transportation Impacts Minimal additional vehicular traffic will occur on public roads in the Siting Area as a result of construction. operation. and maintenance of the Project. Construction access for materials and workforce would be from existing roads. primarily 1-25 (State -maintained). LCR-5. LCR-82. WCR-128. and the old U.S. Hwy 87 (privately maintained). A short segment (1.400 feet) of WCR-128 extends from the I-25/Carr Exit to the Larimer County line. Estimated construction traffic will be approximately 15 to 20 vehicles per day. at the peak of Project construction. Because of the low number of vehicles requiring access to the Project easement. minimal impacts are anticipated. County Road use will be coordinated with the Weld County Department of Public Works. During the operation phase. the transmission line will generate no more than one light truck per month or aerial inspections. No long-term traffic effects will result from operation of the transmission line. Commuting patterns are not expected to change for existing employees or for deliveries of supplies to the site This temporary increase in traffic is not expected to result in traffic problems on any existing roads and no road improvements are proposed. Work and delivery schedules may be shifted to reduce the number of additional vehicles during times of peak traffic. if necessary. There may be short periods of time when traffic will be halted on local roads to allow construction vehicles to enter and exit the construction area. 33 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application Weld County's Functional Transportation Map has been reviewed for existing County Road ROWs and future County Road ROW expansions. The Project's transmission structures will meet required setbacks. measured from the existing and future ROW line. Roundhouse will work with the Weld County Department of Public Works to assure that the Project is compatible with current and planned County Road ROWs and consistent with all relevant policies and procedures. No adverse effects on County Roads are anticipated. Roundhouse will work with the Weld County Department of Public Works to determine the appropriate access route to the construction area. There may be short periods of time when traffic will be halted on local roads to allow construction vehicles to enter and exit the construction area. No improvements to County Roads will be required. f. Socioeconomic Impacts No communities or municipalities are located within the Siting Area. This Project is consistent with the Economic Development Goals and Policies described in the Weld County Comprehensive Plan (Weld County 2008). There are no residences within 0.25 miles of the Permitting Corridor. A summary of public outreach is found in Appendix I The majority of public comments were in support of the Project. It is anticipated that construction of the Project will have a small beneficial impact to the local economies of nearby communities in the Project area. Construction contractors will likely spend money in these communities for fuel. food, lodging. and other supplies. During the construction period, the local economy may see a small increase in sales tax revenue. The footprint of the transmission structures will be the only land removed from current use. Land between the transmission structures will remain available for agricultural uses or other operations that do not interfere with safe and reliable operation of the Project. The Project will not cause adverse economic effects in Weld County Landowners with the Project on their property will receive a lump sum payment in exchange for an executed easement. Roundhouse will be responsible for maintenance. repair. upgrades. or decommissioning of the transmission assets associated with the Project. The Project is located within District 1 of the Weld County Sheriffs Department and is located within the Nunn Fire Protection District. The nearest fire station is the Wellington Fire Department. Station 3. The address for the station is 3019 CR-82. Wellington. CO 80549. a location approximately 8 miles south of the point where the Project enters Weld County. (https://www townofwellington.com/273/About-Us). The nearest facility to the northern portion of the Project is the Cheyenne Regional Medical Center West Campus. 15 miles away. The nearest facility to the southern portion of the Project is the UC Health Poudre Valley Hospital, 24 miles away. None of these services is expected to be affected. unless emergency situations occur. During the approximately 12 -month construction phase of the Project. it is anticipated about 20 people will be working on the Project site. Construction work is anticipated to be done Monday through Friday on either eight- or ten-hour days and only done on Saturdays when needed to regain the construction schedule No evening or night work is anticipated. During the operation phase. this will be an unmanned facility Table 6 presents the estimated number of employees for the Project. 34 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application Table 6 Employees Employees Construction Operation Employees per shift 20 0 Number of shifts 1 0 Total employees 20 0 21-3-330.8.8 - Long- Term Effects upon Physical and Socioeconomic Development Long-term effects of the Project will be beneficial to economic development in the region because the increased reliability and electrical capacity will support increased employment and population. Long-term effects of the Project's site selection and construction are expected to be minimal or negligible for the majority of the physical and socioeconomic resources due to the implementation of BMPs. Environmental Protection Measures. and the mitigation measures described above. As further described in this Application. the Project will not have significant effects on the environment and will not significantly degrade the environment. The Project will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from Rawhide Energy Station (Rawhide) and advance climate and air quality goals in the region. 21-3-330.8.9 — Mitigation of Adverse Impacts / Maximization of Positive Impacts Roundhouses Environmental Protection Measures. included as Appendix E. address site reclamation of disturbed areas and minimization of adverse effects. 21-3-330.8.10 — Non -Structural Alternatives There are no viable non-structural alternatives for delivering renewable energy from the proposed wind facility in Wyoming to northern Colorado. 21-3-330.8.11 — Structural Alternatives See Section 6 0 Analysis of Alternatives. 21-3-330.8.12 — Air and Water Pollution Impacts and Control Alternatives Project construction will last for approximately 12 months. Construction activities will generate minor amounts of particulate matter from soil disturbances and diesel -powered equipment. and carbon monoxide. Any air pollutants generated will be widely dispersed across the Siting Area. have a short-term duration. and minimized by the small scale of construction operations for excavating foundations for transmission structures. Air pollutants will also be minimized through implementation of dust suppression and proper vehicle maintenance. Therefore. Project construction is not expected to negatively impact the air quality status in the area. The Project is an integral component to advance the goals of the climate action plans of several communities in Northern Colorado Air quality will be improved by the resultant reduction in emissions in the region. Long-term air quality benefits will result from the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from Rawhide as a result of increased use of renewable (wind) energy delivered by 35 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application the Project. Once construction activities have been completed, but before vegetation has been re- established. some minor amount of additional dust could occur. Effects on water resources were previously discussed under Section 21-3-330.B.7.a 21-3-330.B.13 - Design Alternatives: Access, Landscaping, and Architecture Temporary construction and permanent access roads were analyzed as part of the Siting Study (Appendix C). Roundhouse will establish temporary access from local roads in the easement. These will be the only roads allowed for construction traffic use in the easement. Roundhouse will use mats in areas that are prone to water retention and rutting. Some access road improvements will be maintained after construction for use in patrolling the line. All temporary access roads will be re -vegetated following construction. Where ground disturbance is substantial. surface preparation and reseeding will occur. The method of restoration will normally consist of loosening the soil surface and reseeding. 21-3-330.8.14 — New or Upgraded Services New or upgraded services are not required for this Project. 21-3-330.B.15 - Hydrologic. Atmospheric, Geologic, Pedologic. Biotic. Visual, and Noise Impacts Hydrologic Surface water riparian areas. and wetlands are discussed in Section 21-3-330.B.6. Part b. Water Resources Impacts. Hydrology is also addressed in greater detail in Appendix C. Atmospheric There will be no long-term adverse air quality effects associated with routine operation and maintenance of the Project. Air quality will be improved by the resultant reduction in emissions in the region. Geologic Construction and operation of the Project will not affect the geology of the Siting Area. The Project does not occur within a Geologic Hazard Area. Pedologic The Project will not adversely affect any of the soils in the Siting Area. Construction of the Project will cause some localized soil compaction and potential erosion. Long-term impacts will be avoided or minimized through implementation of Environmental Protection Measures (Appendix E) See Appendix B. Maps 9, 10, and 8, Soil Erodibility by Water and Soil Erodibility by Wind and the Soil Shrink/Swell Potential. respectively. Biotic The Project was carefully sited to reduce impacts on vegetation and wildlife In addition. a comprehensive set of mitigation measures, including seasonal avoidance of construction activities during sensitive periods and restoration of disturbed areas was incorporated into the Project design. As a result. the Project will have only minor effects on vegetation and wildlife. See Appendices C and E for additional information. 36 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application Visual See Section 21 -3 -330.B.7 —Natural and Socioeconomic Environmental Impacts from Construction of the Project. Noise The Project will be constructed and maintained in accordance with Colorado Revised Statutes 25- 12-101 et seq. (Noise Abatement) and Article IX. Section 14-9-10 et seq of the Code. However. corona may result in audible noise being produced by the transmission lines. Corona is the electrical ionization of the air that occurs near the surface of the energized conductor due to electric fields. Noise levels at the edge of the ROW are anticipated to be barely audible during dry weather periods but may increase during wet weather to a low humming. comparable to the sound of a refrigerator. Odor The Project will not contribute to odor impacts in Weld County. 21-3-330.8.16 — Surface and Subsurface Drainage Subsurface drainage will not be impacted by the Project. Construction will not create runoff in excess of previous levels and will not adversely affect drainage. Appendix E presents Environmental Protection Measures for the Project 21-3-330.8.17 — Decommissioning Plan Not applicable 21-3-330.B.18 — Other Information See Supplemental Information in Section 7.0 21-3-330.C Specific Submittal Requirements Not applicable 21-3-330.D Waiver of Submittal Requirements The Project respectfully requests waivers of the following Code requirements: [these are listed in the Procedural Checklist. need to find the section of the code that requires each. or simply cite the Procedural Checklist] Section 21-3-340. 10. Evidence of adequate water supply. The Project does not require a water supply. See USR Questionnaire. Section 21-3-340. 12. Evidence of adequate sewage disposal. The Project does not require sewage disposal. See USR Questionnaire. Procedural Checklist. Notice of Inquiry or letter/email from a municipality if the site is located within an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) boundary or a Cooperative Planning Area (CPA). The Project is not located within an IGA or CPA. No Notice of Inquiry or interest in annexation was received. 37 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application Section 21-3-330. 16. & 21-3-340. 15. Detention design summarized in a Drainage Report if required per pre -application meeting minutes. A Drainage Report is not required for the Project per the pre -application meeting minutes. Section 21-4-500.P & 21-4-520.8 Traffic Study. if required per pre -application meeting minutes. A Traffic Study is not required per the pre -application meeting minutes. 38 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application 6.0 Analysis of Alternatives This analysis satisfies Sections 21-3-330.B.11. and 21-3-330.C.2 of the Code. 6.1 Transmission System Alternatives The No Action alternative will not meet the purpose and need for the Project. No viable alternatives exist to deliver electric power from the Roundhouse Renewable Energy wind farm to Rawhide. There are currently no other existing or planned transmission lines that could deliver renewable energy to Rawhide and its owner communities. 6.2 Project Siting Alternatives Logan Simpson conducted a Siting Study in mid -2018. wherein six alternative routes for the Project were identified and evaluated. The process considered electric system planning. economics. the natural, cultural. and visual environment, public involvement. regulatory issues. land rights. land use. engineering criteria. and criteria that reflect the policy guidance contained in the Weld County Comprehensive Plan. the 1041 Regulations. and the Mountains to Plains Energy by Design Study and Report (2013) The Energy by Design report was developed by a coalition of organizations led by The Nature Conservancy. It identifies priority biological. cultural, scenic. and recreational resource values within 60.000 acres in northeastern Colorado and recommends strategies to avoid. minimize. and offset the potential impacts of oil and gas development to these values. Many of the resources and strategies analyzed in the Energy by Design study are applicable to this Project. After careful consideration of all of the factors involved in the Siting Study. Alternative 2B was selected as the Preferred Route for the reasons explained below The Preferred Route compares favorably to. or equals. the other alternative routes in nearly all of the route evaluation criteria It is the Preferred Route because it. • Has the lowest conflicts with most of the evaluation criteria. including vegetation and surface water, wildlife. raptors, visual resources. cultural resources. and engineering criteria. • Avoids siting structures within a 100 -foot buffer of perennial and ephemeral surface water features, wetlands. and riparian vegetation communities. It requires only one crossing of a riparian area • Has the shortest distance through mapped black -tailed prairie dog colonies and mule deer winter concentration areas and severe winter range. • Is one of the shortest routes with the fewest angle structures and parallels existing linear infrastructure for most of its length. • Reduces visual impacts from 1-25 more than other alternatives. • Follows existing linear disturbances for most of its length. The complete Siting Study is attached hereto as Appendix C. a summary explanation of the routes considered. a comparison of the routes. and the rationale for the selection of the Preferred Route is provided in Section 6 of this Application. 39 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application Although actual costs vary substantially in response to site and other design considerations. underground construction is estimated to cost 6 to 20 times the amount of overhead construction. (See. for example. "Reducing Cost of Constructing Underground Transmission Lines: Workshop Proceedings. Electric Power Research Institute 2016.) In addition, underground construction results in greater ground disturbance during construction including major trenching and a higher level of access improvements. Therefore. the option of underground installation was determined to be infeasible and was not given serious consideration. Route alternatives considered for the Project are thoroughly discussed in the Siting Study (Appendix C) The Siting Study process for defining and analyzing route alternatives is summarized below and presented in detail in Appendix C. • The Siting Study process followed these iterative steps: • Development of utility engineering requirements and establishment of the Siting Area: • Analyzing existing policy framework and guidance: • Collection of relevant land use and environmental data: • Development of opportunities and constraints: • Defining preliminary alternative transmission routes; • Gathering agency, landowner. and public input: • Collection of additional data and refinement of the transmission line route: and • Ranking and documenting of the results. Following a review of relevant policy guidance and data. including the Weld County Comprehensive Plan. 1041 regulations a series of siting guidelines was applied. These include minimizing effects to the following: • Vegetation (including special status plants). • Surface water, riparian areas, and wetlands: • Wildlife. avian (including raptors), and special status wildlife species' habitats: • Visual resources: • Land uses. specifically residences and existing linear infrastructure: and • Cultural resources. • In addition, stakeholders such as the City of Fort Collins, further emphasized co - locating the transmission line near existing linear disturbances. including roads and the Burlington Northern Railroad. 40 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application Once alternative transmission routes were defined. they were evaluated against a set of comparative criteria to identify the advantages and disadvantages of each alternative alignment. Factors considered included effects on current land uses, wetlands and other habitat values. and conflicts with other developed land uses. including oil and gas pipelines. the Burlington Northern Railroad, and existing transmission lines. Several preliminary alternatives were considered but subsequently eliminated upon determining that they had land use or resource conflicts that could not be readily avoided. A complete discussion of the alternative evaluation process and the results of that evaluation are presented in Appendix C Based on the evaluation results. a Preferred Route was identified. The Preferred Route has a lower level of adverse effect on important land use and resource conditions. complies with the guidance identified in the Weld County Comprehensive Plan (Weld County 2008). and the decision criteria contained in Weld County's adopted 1041 regulations (Weld County 2018). Six final alternative routes. including the Preferred Route. were evaluated from the state line to Rawhide. The alternatives cross differing distances through Weld and Larimer counties. The portion of the Preferred Route located in Weld County begins at the state line (Appendix B, Map 1, Vicinity Map) and proceeds south by southwest to the Larimer County line. Ultimately. alternatives located near 1-25 were not carried forward for further consideration because they would have considerably greater impacts than the other alternatives. The differences in the three alternatives carried forward for final consideration are discussed below. Appendix B. Map 1. Vicinity Map displays the Siting Area for the Weld County portion of the Project. Two alternatives generally parallel the railroad: one on the east (Alternative 2C) and one on the west (Alternative 2B. the Preferred Route). Alternative 3B also parallels the railroad on the east for approximately 2 miles to a point where it diverges with the old U.S. Hwy 87 and proceeds south. Table 7 presents a comparison of Weld County portions of the three route alternatives carried forward for analysis. Alternative 2B (the Preferred Route) is the subject of this Application. The City of Fort Collins conducted an independent internal siting analysis of the alternatives The study found that. on balance. the Preferred Route has the least impacts to environmental. economic. and social resources. The City of Fort Collins. the primary landowner, concurs with the Preferred Route Route 2B (preferred): Route 2B proceeds southeast from the state line. paralleling a pipeline corridor that accommodates seven pipelines for 1.1 miles. until it intersects the alignment of the Burlington Northern Railroad in Weld County. The alignment then proceeds along the west side of the railroad to the Larimer County line. As previously discussed. Route 2B has the lowest number of conflicts with environmental and residential uses. It also offers the most engineering advantages, including the number of angles greater than (>) 45 degrees. the shortest overall length. and the greatest distance paralleling existing linear infrastructure. which corresponds proportionally to visual and land use impacts. Route 2C Route 2C also follows an alignment adjacent to the Burlington Northern Railroad for most of its distance through Weld County. However. the route is located on the east side of the railroad tracks. At a point where the railroad turns to the northeast. Route 2C continues more directly to the north until it reaches the state line. 41 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application Route 3B: After crossing the state line, Route 3B would follow the same alignment as 2C, for a distance of approximately 2.7 miles. The route then leaves the railroad and follows an alignment parallel to the old U.S. Highway 87 alignment for the remaining distance to the Larimer County line. This route has the longest distance through Weld County, a distance of approximately 5.5 miles. Table 7 Alternative Route Comparison Siting Criteria 2B 2C 3B Alternative colors shown on maps (Preferred) Green Blue Purple Vegetation and Surface Water Criteria Number of transmission structures located within a 100 -foot buffer of the high water mark of perennial and ephemeral creeks and streams, seeps, springs. and wetlands Number of transmission structures located within a 100 -foot buffer of identified riparian vegetation communities. Number of crossings over/through identified riparian vegetation communities. Number of transmission structures located within a 300 -foot buffer of Colorado butterfly plant mapped occurrences. Total Number of Lowest Scores 4 4 3 Wildlife Criteria Length of route in feet within mapped black -tailed prairie dog colonies (corresponds to suitable black -footed ferret, burrowing owl, and mountain plover habitat). Length of route in feet within active black -tailed prairie dog colonies that occur within a designated prairie dog management or conservation zone. Length of route in feet within black -tailed prairie dog colonies that were active as of 2017. Routes within 1,000 feet of the National Black -Footed Ferret Conservation Center. Number of known swift fox den sites within 0.25 mile of the potential center line. Length of route in feet that occur within Pronghorn Winter Concentration Areas. 20.508 19.412 Length of route in feet that occur within Mule Deer Winter Concentration Areas. Length of route in feet that occur within Mule Deer Severe Winter Range. 18,539 Colorado Blue Butterfly Total Number of Lowest Scores 8 8 6 Birds - Raptor Criteria Length of route in feet within 0.25 mile of known raptor nests 2,498 Total Number of Lowest Scores 1 0 0 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application Table 7 Alternative Route Comparison Siting Criteria 2B 2C 38 Alternative colors shown on maps (Preferred) Green Blue Purple Birds — Non -raptor Criteria Length of route in feet within 300 feet of chestnut -collared longspur breeding areas. - Length of route in feet within 450 feet of lark bunting core areas. - - Length of route in feet within 450 feet of McCown's longspur core areas. - Number of mountain plover staging areas and/or nest/repeat detection buffers crossed by the potential center line Total Number of Lowest Scores 4 4 3 Visual Resources Criteria Distance (miles) of transmission route through a 0 to 1.5 mile viewshed from recreational trails. - 4111111 Distance (miles) of transmission route through a 1.5 to 3.5 mile viewshed from recreational trails. Distance (miles) of transmission route through a 0 to 0.5 mile viewshed from 1-25. 1.12 Distance (miles) of transmission route crossing prominent landforms within siting area. Total Number of Lowest Scores 4 3 3 Land Use Criteria Number of residences within 200 feet of potential center line. Number of residences within 0.25 mile of potential center line. Number of secondary agricultural/industrial buildings within 100 feet of potential center line. Number of communication facilities/towers within 200 feet of potential center line. Number of properties owned by various landowners crossed by a potential center line (including the City of Fort Collins). Total Number of Lowest Scores 4 5 5 Cultural Resources Criteria Number of cultural sites within 75 feet of potential center line. Total Number of Lowest Scores ti 1 0 0 Engineering Criteria Total Length in Weld County (miles) 3.9 Total number of angle structures greater than 45 degrees_ Numberof Federal Highway crossings (1-25). Number of other transmission line crossings. Number of active railroad crossings Total Number of Lowest Scores 4 3 2 43 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application Table 7 Alternative Route Comparison Siting Criteria 2B 2C 3B Alternative colors shown on maps (Preferred) Green Blue Purple Linear Infrastructure Criteria (Higher Value = Best Score) Distance of parallel route in miles adjacent to an existing linear feature (railroad tracks. existing pipeline ROW/corridor, old U.S. Hwy 87, CR-5, l- 25. or existing native surface roads) 3.88 a.05 Distance of parallel route in miles that can be accessed by old U.S. Hwy 87, CR-5, 1-25 Frontage Road, or existing native surface roads. 0_67 Total Number of Lowest (Highest) Scores 0 0 2 Grand Total Number of Lowest Score 30 $7 24 Lowest Effect Moderate Effect Highest Effect ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application 7.0 Supplemental Information 7.1 Use by Special Review (USR) Questionnaire This information is being provided at the request of the Weld County Planning Department and is not part of a USR application. 7.1.1 Planning Questions 1. Explain, in detail, the proposed use of the property. See the previous Project Description (Section 3.0). 2. Explain how this proposal is consistent with the intent of the Weld County Code, Chapter 22 of the Comprehensive Plan. The Comprehensive Plan is a document that serves as the foundation of all land use and development regulations in Weld County (Weld County 2008). Supplemental to the Comprehensive Plan are the zoning ordinances. development standards and requirements. subdivision procedures. policies. and other documents. all of which combine to make the framework used by County government to manage land use in Weld County. The Project is consistent with the Code, Chapter 22 of the Comprehensive Plan. In particular. the Project was carefully sited to minimize conflicts with important wildlife habitats and other sensitive areas such as wetlands. riparian areas. cultural resources. and residential uses. Visual resources are also a primary criterion considered in siting the Project. A discussion of how the Project is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan is provided in Table 2. In addition. a comprehensive set of Environmental Protection Measures will be applied to the Project (Appendix E). 3. Explain how this proposal is consistent with the intent of the Weld County Code, Chapter 23 (Zoning) and the zone district in which it is located. Chapter 23 provides a unified regulatory system for land use in Weld County. It is designed to promote the health. safety. convenience. morals. order. and welfare of the present and future inhabitants of Weld County. All of the land crossed by the Project in Weld County is zoned for Agriculture Utility facilities. including electric transmission lines. are an allowed use in this zone district subject to the requirements of Section 23-3-40. Uses by Special Review and Section 23-4-420 Public Utilities Facilities. See Section 21-3- 330.B.5.a—Present Use and Zoning. 4. Describe what type of land uses surround the site. Explain how the proposed use is consistent with and compatible with surrounding land uses. The primary land use in areas crossed by the Project is agricultural rangeland and wildlife habitat. Secondary land uses in the Siting Area include oil and gas pipelines. rural residential uses. existing transmission and distribution lines. and the Burlington Northern Railroad. As documented in the Siting Study (Appendix C). siting criteria included avoiding residences. environmentally sensitive areas. and other uses perceived to be incompatible. More details on land uses in areas crossed by the Project are provided in Appendix C. Appendix B Map 5. Prime Farmland and Slope presents areas with slopes greater than 30 percent and prime farmland (if irrigated) within the Siting Area. None of the potential prime farmland in the Siting Area is currently under cultivation. 45 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application 5. What are the hours and days of operation? (e.g., Monday thru Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) Not applicable. Note that the Project will be operated continuously and will not require on -site staffing. Instead. the facilities will be operated remotely from existing. centralized operations centers. Construction of the Project will typically occur Monday through Friday on either eight - or ten-hour days and only done on Saturdays when needed to regain the construction schedule No evening or night work is anticipated 6. List the number of full time and/or part time employees proposed to work at this site. Not applicable: see response to number 5. 7. If shift work is proposed include the number of employees per shift. Not applicable: see response to number 5. 8. List the number of people who will use this site. Include contractors, truck drivers, customers, volunteers, etc. Not applicable: see response to number 5. 9. If this is a dairy, livestock confinement operation, kennel, etc., list the number and type of animals. Not applicable 10. Describe the type of lot surface and the square footage of each type. (e.g., asphalt, gravel. landscaping, dirt, grass, buildings) The Project will be built within a non-exclusive easement that provides for construction and operation of the Project. Each transmission structure will occupy an area of approximately 19-39 square feet around each pole that would have a direct embed foundation and approximately 28-78.5 square feet around poles that would require a drilled shaft foundation. At 6 to 7 structures per mile and a total distance of 3.9 miles. the Project will permanently occupy less than 0.04 miles in Weld County. No other buildings or structures are required for the Project and the land within the non-exclusive easement will typically continue in its current use 11. How many parking spaces are proposed? How many handicapped (ADA) parking spaces are proposed? Not applicable 12. Explain the existing and proposed landscaping for the site. The existing conditions of the Siting Area in Weld County are agricultural rangeland and wildlife habitat. As a part of Roundhouse's transmission line clearance program. it is required to keep transmission facilities and easement clear of all tall -growing trees. brush. and other vegetation that could grow too close to conductors. Note that trees are rare in the Siting Area and are largely limited to scattered clusters along a few drainages. These areas were avoided where possible. Trees and shrubs removed for this Project. if any. will be replaced in other suitable locations outside of the easement. 46 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application During operation, minimum clearance guidelines have been established that are to be maintained at all times to comply with regulatory and legal requirements Generally. this concept allows for different yet compatible vegetation types in three separate zones: • Wire Zone: Area directly underneath the conductors. Vegetation in the wire zone comprises low -growing forbs and grasses. All types of crops are permissible under the conductors. • Border Zone Area that begins at the outside edge of the wire zone and extends to the edge of the easement. The border zone may contain additional low -growing woody plants and trees. • Areas outside the border zone: Must be patrolled for hazard trees. • Crews performing the work consider the tree or plant species. growing environment. growth rate, maintenance cycle length. etc to determine the amount of clearance required at the time of the work. 13. Describe the type of fence proposed for the site (e.g. 6 foot chain link with earth tone slats) Not applicable 14. Describe the proposed screening for all parking and outdoor storage areas. If the site is located in a floodplain outdoor storage is restricted. Not applicable. 15. Explain any proposed reclamation procedures when termination of the USR activity occurs. When the Project reaches the end of its useful life. which is anticipated to be in excess of 50 to 100 years. the transmission structures will either be replaced with new structures or removed. If replaced with new structures. the landowner will continue to use the easement in a manner consistent with operation of a transmission line. In most cases. this means continuing agricultural use. Revegetation would occur in areas along the easement that were disturbed during construction and previous land uses would continue. If the transmission line structures were removed and the easement abandoned. the landowners would have the ability to use the ROW in whatever manner they saw fit subject to zoning and other applicable land use requirements. 16. Who will provide fire protection to the site? The Project is located within the Nunn Fire Protection District. The nearest fire station is the Wellington Fire Department. Station 3. The address for the station is 3019 CR-82. Wellington. CO 80549. a location approximately 8 miles south of the point where the Project enters Weld County(https://www.townofwellington.com/273/About-Us). The Project will be designed and operated in accordance with all applicable safety standards (i.e.. overhead ground wires and grounded towers to protect the system from becoming damaged by lightning). There is no need for fire protection for steel transmission structures. In the event of an operational emergency. Roundhouse will de -energize the transmission line. call local first responders when necessary. and send operations staff to the site to safely correct the issue 47 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application 17. List all proposed on -site and off -site improvements associated with the use (e.g. landscaping, fencing, buildings, drainage, turn lanes, etc.) and a timeline of when you will have each one of the improvements completed. Not applicable 7.1.2 Engineering Questions 1. Describe how many roundtrips/day are expected for each vehicle type: Passenger Cars/Pickups, Tandem Trucks, Semi-Truck/Trailer/RV (Roundtrip = 1 trip in and 1 trip out of site) Minimal additional vehicular traffic will occur on public roads in the Siting Area as a result of construction. operation. and maintenance of the Project. Estimated construction traffic will be approximately 15 to 20 vehicles per day. Because of the low number of vehicles requiring access to the Project easement. minimal impacts are anticipated. County Road use will be coordinated with the Weld County Road and Bridge Department. as necessary. and construction activities will occur in a manner that complies with all applicable safety and road damage minimization guidelines. The temporary increase in traffic is not expected to result in traffic problems on any existing roads and no road improvements are proposed. Work and delivery schedules may be shifted to reduce the number of additional vehicles during times of peak traffic, if necessary. There may be short periods of time when traffic will be halted on local roads to allow construction vehicles to enter and exit the construction area. During the operation phase. the transmission line will generate no more than one light truck per month or aerial inspections. No long-term traffic effects will result from operation of the transmission line. 2. Describe the expected travel routes for site traffic. Construction and operation access would occur as follows: • Access to the site is provided by 1-25 and a network of local roads that extend to the west. including LCR-82 at the south end and LCR 92/NCR 128 at the Carr exit. WCR- 128 is the only public road in Weld County that may experience some construction traffic. This segment, which extends for a distance of approximately 1.400 feet. is located between the I-25/Carr Exit and the Larimer County line. From these existing roads. construction and operations personnel would then continue to the Project site. Existing ranch (fence) roads will be utilized to the maximum extent feasible. Where fence roads are non- existent, a new permanent access road (native surface. two -track, single lane about 8- to 12 -foot -wide) will be constructed beneath the transmission line to access individual structures. The new access road will not be bladed except in rare instances where terrain prohibits high clearance vehicle access. In areas with seasonal flooding. several inches of gravel may be added to new and existing access roads. • Access to the wind farm in Laramie County. Wyoming will occur from roads in Wyoming and will not rely on roads or infrastructure in Weld County. 48 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application 3. Describe the travel distribution along the routes (e.g. 50% of traffic will come from the north, 20% from the south. 30% from the east, etc.) See response to number 2. above It is anticipated that most construction traffic will utilize 1-25 for a portion of each trip and then proceed west to the site. 4. Describe the time of day that you expect the highest traffic volumes from above. During the construction phase of the Project. traffic will be higher during the morning and late afternoon periods when workers travel to and from the job site. During operations, Project traffic on all routes at all times of the day will be minimal (e.g.. one vehicle per week). 5. Describe where the access to the site is planned. Not applicable. 6. Drainage Design: Detention pond summarized in a drainage report is required unless the project falls under an exception to storm water detention requirements per code section 23-12-30 F.1. The Project is exempt from a drainage report per the pre -application meeting minutes. A. Does your site qualify for an exception to storm water detention? If so, describe in a drainage narrative the following: The site qualifies for an exception to Stormwater detention. 1. Which exception is being applied for and include supporting documentation. It is unlikely that subsurface drainage will be impacted by the transmission line. Project construction will not create runoff in excess of previous levels and will not adversely affect drainage. Appendix E presents Environmental Protection Measures for the Project. A Drainage Report is not required for the Project per the pre -application meeting minutes. 2. Where the water originates if it flows onto the property from an offsite source Water that flows onto the Project easement would come from the north-northwest through established drainages, channels. and culverts. 3. Where it flows to as it leaves the property Water leaving the easement would continue to flow south — southeast through established drainages. channels. and culverts. Ultimately water flowing from the Project area will reach the Cache la Poudre River. 4. The direction of flow across the property The direction of flow across the Siting Area is generally from the northwest to the southeast. 5. If there have been previous drainage problems with the property Drainage problems have historically occurred relative to the Burlington Northern Railroad. The railroad bed contains a number of culverts and several bridges span larger drainages. 49 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County 1041 Permit Application 7.1.3 Environmental Health Questions 1. What is the drinking water source on the property? Not applicable. During construction, bottled water will be located on site. During operations. the facilities will not be staffed and a permanent drinking water source is not required. 2. What type of sewage disposal system is on the property? Not applicable. During construction. waste containers will be located on site. During operations. the facilities will not be staffed and a sewage disposal system is not required. 3. If storage or warehousing is proposed, what type of items will be stored? Not applicable. 4. Describe where and how storage and/or stockpile of wastes, chemicals, and/or petroleum will occur on this site. Not applicable. 5. If there will be fuel storage on site indicate the gallons and the secondary containment. State the number of tanks and gallons per tank. Not applicable 6. If there will be washing of vehicles or equipment on site indicate how the wash water will be contained. Not applicable. 7. If there will be floor drains indicate how the fluids will be contained. Not applicable. 8. Indicate if there will be any air emissions. (e.g., painting, oil storage, etc.) Not applicable. 9. Provide a design and operations plan if applicable. (e.g., composting, landfills. etc.) Not applicable. 10. Provide a nuisance management plan if applicable. (e.g., dairies, feedlots, etc.) Not applicable. 11. Additional information may be requested depending on type of land use requested. See additional information provided for the Areas and Activities of State Interest — 1041 Permit application requirements. 50 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application 7.1.4 Building Questions 1. List the type, size (square footage), and number of existing and proposed structures. Show and label all existing and proposed structures on the USR drawing. Label the use of the building and the square footage. Not applicable. 2. Explain how the existing structures will be used for this USR? Not applicable_ 3. List the proposed use(s) of each structure. Not applicable_ 7.2 List of Future Permits and Plans Following approval of the 1041 Permit. Roundhouse will apply for or record the following: Weld County • Final ROW Transmission Plats Other Development Permits / Reviews • Pipeline Coordination • Migratory Bird Treaty Act • National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. These permits are acquired through application to the CDPHE. • Other permits and actions required for the Project in Weld County include the following: • Coordination with USFWS. CPW. and the City of Fort Collins regarding wildlife and special status species avoidance and mitigation: • Submit letter to the Colorado SHPO: • Negotiate form of easement agreement with the City of Fort Collins: • Execution of easement agreements with other landowners: Following approval of the 1041 Permit, Roundhouse will apply for or record the following: • Weld County Construction Permit • Weld County Road Access Permits • Final easement Transmission Plats 51 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Weld County1041 Permit Application 8.0 References Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP). 2017. Potential Conservation Area and Network of Conservation GIS data. Available online at: http://www.cnhp.colostate.edu/download/gis_asp. Accessed January 24. 2018. Electric Power Research Institute. 2016. Reducing Cost of Constructing Underground Transmission Lines: Workshop Proceedings. The Nature Conservancy. 2013. Mountains to Plains Energy by Design. Report to the Colorado State Land Board pursuant to Contract #38818 / PCA C152179. Available online at: https://www.conservationgateway.org/Files/Pages/m2penergybydesign.aspx. U.S. Census Bureau 2017. QuickFacts. Available online at: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/US/PST045217. Accessed August 22, 2018. Weld County. 2008. Charter and County Code. Chapter 22 - Comprehensive Plan. Available online at: https://library.municode.com/co/weld_county/codes/charter_ and_ county_ code?nodeld=CH22COP L. Accessed May 30. 2018. Weld County. 2017. Assessors Parcel Data, GIS data. Available online at: https://www.weldgov.com/departments/assessor. Weld County. 2017. Charter and County Code. Chapter 21 - Areas and Activities of State Interest. Available online at: https //library.municode.com/co/weld_county/codes/ charter_and_county_code?nodeld=CH21ARACSTIN Accessed January 16. 2018. 52 From: Chris Gathman To: "Christine MikeII" Cc: Ryan Fitzpatrick; &in Bibeau; Jeremy Call ; Kristine Ranslem Subject: RE: Potential Pre -Application Meeting Times Date: Monday, July 23, 2018 5:42:00 PM Attachments: jmage004.png Dear Christine, We discussed this request today with staff and our County Attorney. The Determination is that a 1041 USR will be required and it will be required to adhere to the 1041 process as delineated under Chapter 21 of the Weld County Code. This requirement applies to where the transmission line begins and ends at a substation/transition site — regardless of where these substation/transition sites are located. Here is the attached definition per Chapter 21 of the Weld County Code: • Transmission lines : Those electrical lines and appurtenant facilities which meet all of the following criteria: Either a series of three (3) or more structures and appurtenant facilities erected above ground which support one ( I) or more conductors or a power line placed underground. 2. Which lines emanate from a power plant or a substation/transition site and terminate at a substation/transition site. 3. Which are designed to transmit electrical voltages of 1 15 kV or greater. Regards, Chris Gathman Planner III Weld County Department of Planning Services 1555 N. 17th Avenue tel: 970-400-3537 fax: 970-400-4098 Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action concerning the contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited. From: Christine Mikell <christine@enyo-energy.com> Sent: Monday, July 23, 2018 12:51 PM To: Chris Gathman <cgathman@weldgov.com> Cc: Ryan Fitzpatrick <blue.water.ryan@gmail.com>; Erin Bibeau <EBibeau@LOGANSIMPSON.COM>; Jeremy Call <JCall@LOGANSIMPSON.COM> Subject: Re: Potential Pre -Application Meeting Times Hi Chris, Thanks again for taking the time to meet with us on Friday. Please find attached the meeting minutes that Jeremy wrote up. We look forward to hearing back from you on whether the project should be permitted as a USR or 1041 (Chapter 21). Please let me know if you have any questions. Best, Christine Watson Mikell 801-455-1045 ChristineCWenyo-energy.com http://www.enyo-energy.com Mailing Address: 3434 E Bengal Blvd. # 180 SLC, UT 84121 PI) E N YO ell RENEWABLE ENERGY This message and any attachments contain information that is propnetary confidential and privileged They are intended for the pnvate and exclusive use of the addressee and are covered by the Electronic Communications Pnvacy Act. 18 U S C § 2510-2521 Unless you are the addressee (or authorized to receive for the addressee) you may not use ,:opy pent or disdose to anyone this message or any information ;:ontained In the message and any attachments If you nave received this communication in error please advise the sender oy reply and delete this message From: Chris Gathman <cgathmaniywel > Date: Wednesday, July 11, 2018 at 7:43 AM To: Christine Watson Mikell <christineCaenyo-energy.com> Subject: Potential Pre -Application Meeting Times Dear Christine, I have been assigned your pre -application request. We have received several requests recently and are pretty well booked for this week. The only available time this week is 3:30 tomorrow — Thursday 7/12. Next week is much more open — in looking at the calendar — we currently have severaavailable times Thursday 7/19 — 9, 10, 11, 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30. Friday 7/20 — 10, 11, 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 Let me know what time(s) will work best for you. Thanks, Chris Gathman Planner III Weld County Department of Planning Services 1555 N. 17th Avenue tel: 970-400-3537 fax: 970-400-4098 Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action concerning the contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited. ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Public Meeting Summary August 15 2018 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project August 15, 2018 Public Meeting Summary August 2018 Submitted by Logan Simpson 213 Linden Street, Suite 300 Fort Collins, Colorado 80524 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Public Meeting Summary August 15. 2018 Public Meeting Date: August 15. 2018 Time: 4:00 to 7:00 pm Location Northside Aztlan Community Center — Eagle Room 3 112 E. Willow Street Fort Collins. Colorado 80524 Attachments: 1. Display boards from public meeting August 15 2. Attendee Sign -In Sheets 3. Public comment spreadsheet Open House Facilitators: Daylan Figgs. City of Fort Collins Jason Graham. City of Fort Collins Gretchen Stanford. City of Fort Collins John Stokes. City of Fort Collins Christine Mikell. RHRE/Enyo Jamie Gentile. RHRE/NextEra Haas Parish. RHRE/NextEra Mike Lienhard. RHRE/NextEra Introduction The public open house was held for the following purposes • To explain the benefits of the Project: Ryan Kelly. RHRE/NextEra Ryan Fitzpatrick. RHRE/NextEra Chris Wood. PRPA Steve Roalstad. PRPA Jeremy Call. Logan Simpson Erin Bibeau. Logan Simpson Holly Ayala. Logan Simpson • To share the 1041 permit and easement process and allow the public to comment on the Project prior to submittal of the applications to Larimer and Weld counties. • To provide the public with information on the proposed route alignment and alternatives considered. and refine transmission route alternatives through community comments: • To allow the public to comment on the overall project. and • To gather feedback on the decisions the City Council must make Notification The Weld and Larimer County 1041 Permit application processes require notification of landowners within 500 feet of the property boundary or corridor under development review for public hearings. RHRE fulfilled this 1 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Public Meeting Summary August 15, 2018 requirement and notified landowners within 500 feet of the preferred alternative corridor about the meetings via a direct mailed postcard. The meeting was also publicized via a press release which was sent to more than 20 media outlets: the project was featured in the Loveland Reporter Herald. the North Forty News. and KUNC. The meeting was also highlighted via at least three Project and partner websites: http://roundhouse-renewable.com/. https://www.prpa.org/roundhouse-renewable-energy/ and https://www.fcgov.com/roundhouse-renewable and on their respective social media sites. In addition. the following individuals and entities. including local governments. were contacted directly by RHRE by email and phone prior to the meetings • Project Stakeholders List. including those who had previously contacted RHRE or Platte River: • Relevant individuals or organizations on the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Stakeholder List • Relevant City of Fort Collins and Larimer County boards and commissions: • Larimer Community Development Department: and • Weld County Planning and Public Works Department Summary of Discussion A total of 54 community members signed in at the open house. Attendees viewed project information materials and maps. A total of 34 comment forms were received at the open house. and the City of Fort Collins has received additional comment letters since the open house. Representatives from RHRE. the City of Fort Collins. Platte River and Logan Simpson were available to answer questions at the open house. The primary comments raised include: • Interest in the NextEra and Enyo Renewable Energy partnership; • Interest in the factors that influenced the decision to establish the preferred alternative; • Renewable energy benefits from the proposed project. especially the magnitude of the benefit (equivalent to the annual energy needs of approximately 70.500 homes): • Appreciation of the Energy by Design -like methodology in developing and evaluating potential corridors: • Concerns about the protection of biological resources during project implementation: • Preference to locate the transmission line and substations on public land to reduce private property impacts: • General agreement on the preliminary preferred corridor. Interest in why Interstate 25 corridors were not selected as a preferred corridor: • Concerns about negative impacts to property values from overhead high -voltage transmission lines: • Concerns about visual impacts from the transmission line: and • Concerns about transmission lines and structures in proximity to residences. All attendees were encouraged to send additional comments to RHRE by email or on the provided hard -copy comment forms. Additional comments will be captured in a summary spreadsheet and addressed accordingly. RHRE representatives are available to make in -person visits to concerned landowner properties. Several contacts and appointments were made to follow up with individuals. 2 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Public Meeting Summary August 15. 2018 Attachment 1: Open House Fact Sheet and Boards ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT I FACT SHEET Project Overview Roundhouse Renewable Energy is a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources. LLC. the worlds largest generator of renewable energy from wind and sun. which will develop. own and operate the project. Power will be generated by a proposed wind farm in Wyoming and delivered via a new transmission line that will connect to the existing Platte River Power Authority's Rawhide Energy Station. The wind turbines will be located on 30,000 acres of private and state land southwest of Cheyenne in Laramie County. Wyoming. Platte River Power Authority has committed to purchasing power from Roundhouse Renewable Energy. As planned, the project will consist of 75 turbines with 150 MW of capacity and would nearly triple Platte Rivers wind capacity. Project Components The proposed Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Project consists of the following components: Structure Type: The transmission line would consist of single -pole. self-supporting steel monopole structures. Monopole structures will range in height from 80 feet to 130 feet. depending on length of span. The typical span length between transmission structures is 800 feet. although longer spans of 1.000 feet can be achieved to span environmental or sensitive resources. Right -of -Way Requirements: The Project will be constructed almost entirely within an anticipated successfully negotiated 150 - foot right-of-way easement with the City of Fort Collins and other private properties Project Schedule September - October 2018: Presentations to City Boards and City Council. November - December 2018: Water Board recommendation to City Council. 1041 Permit Application review by Larimer and Weld Counties, Winter 2019: Larimer and Weld Counties Planning Commission and Board of County Commissioners Public Hearings. City Council review and decision. S pring 2019: Wyoming Industrial Siting Council decision_ S ummer - Fall 2019: Project design and additional environmental investigations. including pre -construction surveys 2020: Project construction and completion. How to Comment P lease provide comments on the proposed transmission line corridors at the Roundhouse Renewable Energy website roundhouse-renewable.com or by email at inforoundhouserenewable.com. ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. NExTera ENE RESOURCES ROUTES CONSIDERED AND DISMISSED A significant number of alternatives were considered throughout the siting process. Three corridors along Interstate 25 were considered and dismissed after thorough analysis. Route A is generally located along the west side of 1-25 for most of the distance to the Rawhide Substation. • The route would require five crossings over an identified riparian/wetland vegetation community. It has the greatest distance within 0.25 mile of known raptor nest sites. • It would be highly visible from 1-25 in views to the west. • Three residences would be located within 0.25 mile of the route. • It has the highest number of cultural resource sites within 75 feet of the alignment • The route is more than a mile longer than the preferred (13.9 miles) and would require two railroad crossings. • Despite its proximity to 1-25, it has limited access via existing surface roads. Route B is also parallel to 1-25 for most of its length but crosses over to the east side of the highway and parallels the highway at a distance of 0.25 mile in order to avoid being too close to or crossing through several features near the highway. including the Natural Fort site_ a residencea playa lake and an industrial complex just south of the state line. • Route B has a higher level of effect on riparian areas. including one structure within the 100 -foot buffer of a drainage and four structures within a riparian area. • Route B has the greatest distance through mapped prairie dog colonies (2.4 miles) and is located in proximity to the National Black -Footed Ferret Conservation Center. • It also has a greater distance through pronghorn and mule deer winter habitat. • This route would be highly visible from 1-25 in views to the east. Route C is parallel to 1-25 for most of its length but is located further east of the highway in its northern most segment in order to avoid proximity to the Natural Fort site. • In addition to being highly visible from the Natural Fort site. four known cultural resource sites are located within 75 feet of the alignment. • Similar to Route B. this route has the greatest distance through mapped prairie dog colonies (2.4 miles). In addition. the route is located in proximity to the National Black -Footed Ferret Conservation Center. • This route has the highest distances through pronghorn and mule deer winter habitat. • A large portion of Route C would be highly visible from 1-25. ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. NEXT era ENE, aFS?!KK WE ARE HERE TO: WELCOME! HOW TO COMMENT • Provide information on the proposed RHRE transmission line, which is the focus of tonight's meeting • Provide an overview of the Roundhouse Renewable Energy (RHRE) project • Receive your comments • Answer your questions Tonight, participants can submit written comments on a comment form/fact sheet. Following the open house. participants can provide comments on the proposed routes for the transmission line at the Roundhouse Renewable Energy website roundhouse-renewable.com or by email at info@ roundhouse-renewable.com. All comments on the transmission line will be considered and will be delivered to City Council and other decision makers. Project Area near Natural Foil Project Area near Carr 1-25 Exit R. UNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. OPEN HOUSE - AUGUST 1 , 2018 PROJECT OVERVIEW Roundhouse Renewable Energy is a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources. LLC. the world's largest generator of renewable energy from wind and sun which will develop. own and operate the project. • Power will be generated by a proposed wind farm in Wyoming and delivered via a new transmission line that will connect to the existing Platte River Power Authority's (Platte River) Rawhide Energy Station. • The wind turbines will be located on 30.000 acres of private and state land southwest of Cheyenne in Laramie County. Wyoming. • Platte River has committed to purchasing power from Roundhouse Renewable Energy through a power purchase agreement (PPA). • As planned. RHRE will consist of 75 turbines with 150 MW of capacity. RHRE would nearly triple Platte River's wind capacity. HOW POWER WILL BE DELIVERED The Colorado component of this project is a transmission line that would carry the wind facility's output to the Platte River Rawhide Energy Station. Approximately 12 miles of the line would be located in Colorado. • The transmission line would consist of single -pole, self-supporting steel monopole structures. • Monopole structures will range in height from 80 feet to 130 feet. depending on length of span. • The typical span length between transmission structures is 800 feet. although longer spans of 1.000 feet can be achieved to span environmental or sensitive resources. ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. NEx7 era ENS_____: _a3 RENEWABLE ENERGY BENEFITS OF THE PROJECT • I I 1111 1 Qy = 5OO HOMES OVER THE COURSE OF A YEAR, THE PROJECT WILL GENERATE AN AMOUNT OF ELECTRICITY EQUIVALENT TO THE ANNUAL ENERGY NEEDS OF APPROXIMATELY 70,500 HOMES. • This carbon free electricity could power 100% of all of the homes in Fort Collins (65.518) plus Estes Park (3.140). or enough carbon free electricity for half of all of the homes in PRPA's four member communities. • Completion of the project will become a significant step toward achieving energy goals for Platte River's owner communities, including Fort Collins Climate Action Plan. • The project is estimated to decrease Fort Collins' emissions by about 10 percent. • This project creates no air or water pollution. ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. OPEN HOUSE AUGUST 15, 2018 PROCESS AND SCHEDULE SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2018 PRESENTATIONS TO CITY OF FORT COLLINS WATER BOARD, LAND CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP BOARD, NATURAL RESOURCES AND ADVISORY BOARD, ENERGY BOARD, AND CITY COUNCIL NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2018 WATER BOARD RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL 1041 PERMIT APPLICATION REVIEW BY LARIMER + WELD COUNTIES WINTER 2019 LARIMER AND WELD COUNTIES PLANNING COMMISSION AND BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PUBLIC HEARINGS. CITY COUNCIL REVIEW AND DECISION SPRING 2019 WYOMING INDUSTRIAL SITING COUNCIL DECISION SUMMER - FALL 2019 PROJECT DESIGN AND ADDITIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL INVESTIGATIONS, INCLUDING PRE -CONSTRUCTION SURVEYS 2020 PROJECT CONSTRUCTION AND COMPLETION ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. OPEN HOUSE AUGUST 15, 2018 WHO ARE THE DECISION MAKERS? a t Wyoming Industrial Siting Division will review the wind energy facility. The Wyoming Industrial Siting Division has an in-depth review process that will evaluate the impacts of the wind energy project and require implementation of appropriate mitigation. Comprehensive studies are required, including avian, wildlife, visual, and other resources. Larimer County will review the segment of the transmission line located in Larimer County. Public hearings will follow submittal of the 1041 permit application. ae ° ` Weld County will review the segment of the transmission line located in Weld County. Public hearings will follow submittal of the 1041 permit application. a til b City of Fort Collins City Council will consider an easement for a segment of transmission line across City -owned Meadow Springs Ranch. and will consider a letter of support for Larimer County's 1041 process. a b Roundhouse will be working with landowners, Larimer County, City of Fort Collins staff, and respective citizen boards throughout this process. OF NOTE: The preliminary preferred transmission line route is now available for review. A transmission line easement will be purchased from willing landowners. OUNDHOUS ENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. OPEN HOUSE AUGUST 15, 2018 WYOMING PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS The wind farm and Wyoming portion of the transmission line will be permitted through an Energy Conversion System Use Permit for Laramie County and the Wyoming Industrial Siting Council Financial Assurance This step involves proving to the Industrial Siting Council that Roundhouse has the ability to constructown. operate. decommission and reclaim and to post a bond for decommissioning and reclamation. Construction, Operations and Decommissioning • Construction Completion Schedule • Workforce Estimate • Operations and Workforce Employment Socioeconomic Study • Construction Procedures • Operation and Maintenance Activities • Site Decommissioning and Reclamation This study evaluates the benefits and potential adverse impacts to the social and economic resources in the study area and recommended area of site influence. Evaluation of Environmental Impacts • Air Quality • Noise • Geology and Soils • Water Supply. Yield and Analysis • Surface and Groundwater Resources • Wetlands and Waters of the US • Vegetation. Special Status Plants and Rare Plant • Terrestrial Wildlife • Fisheries • Scenic Resources • Cultural Resources • Recreational Resources Public Involvement Activities • Transportation Study • Cumulative Impacts • Controls. Mitigation and Monitoring Measures • Mitigation Measures • Monitoring Programs A communications program will proactively provide information about wind energy generation in general. the proposed projects, answer questions about the projects and their effects. collect feedback and identify issues, concerns and opportunities to consider during planning. development and operation of the project It also provides information and notifications to other entities. A Jurisdictional Meeting will determine the area of site influence for project evaluation and outreach. An on- going communications program is developed and maintained to engage • County and municipal governments • School districts • Joint Powers boards. • State Engineers Office • Wyoming Department of Transportation • Wyoming Game and Fish Department • Wyoming Office of State Lands • Wyoming State Historic Preservation Office • Wyoming Department of Revenue • U S Fish and Wildlife Service • Wyoming Department of Employment • Wyoming Department of Family Services • Local offices of the Department of Workforce Services • Wyoming Highway Patrol ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. OPEN HOUSE AUGUST 15, 2018 IWigton ol1Ms — Preliminary Preferred Corridor Alternative t Corridor - ktematrve 2 Cornoor = Aftematrte Considered But Dismissed O Existing Substation >>S+tng Area r interconnect Corndor in Wyoming — Eating 230W Transmission — Existing 345kV Transmission — OW US Highway 8r — Railroad Local Roads Stream Q Roundnouse Lease Area Meadow Springs Rancn DRPA Qvned Property r. - r. — Iii C, n_7 .•w 4. IOW 0 M I N L O Rtas D APSTONE PRAIRIE NATURAL AREA PLATTE RIVER POWER AUTHORITY �tb•erlon 7. Roundhouse RMINiweble Energy Project Site I I I f _ err Lla_a a■ 1; ■ a 1 La-aS Z s t. r a r- • • a ■ I' a • • M a • ■ 1 ✓ ■ ■ ■ r • ■ J • • • • a a l`1 ■ * • ♦* at-,.a.a.,1 _ _E Cnrred8?. MEADOW SPRINGS RANCH Ct d F tiolk REGIONAL CONTEXT AND ALTERNATIVES MAP ROUNDHOUSE RENEWlbRL5&NERGY LLC. AUGUST 15. 2018 ALTERNATIVE COMPARISON A significant number of alternatives were considered throughout the siting process. and have been narrowed down to the three presented here. IMINARY PREFERRED ROUTE WEST OF RAILROAD The Preliminary Preferred Route, shown on the Alternatives Map as a green line, generally parallels the railroad on the west for 6 miles until it reaches CR 5. then proceeds due south along CR 5 before turning to the west and continuing to the Rawhide Substation. This route compares favorably to or equals the other alternative routes in nearly all of the route evaluation criteria. It is the preferred alternative because it: • Has the lowest or equal conflicts with vegetation and surface water, wildlife, raptors. visual resources. land uses. cultural resources. and engineering criteria. • Avoids siting structures within a 100 -foot buffer of perennial and ephemeral surface water features. wetlands, and riparian vegetation communities. Requires one crossing of a riparian area. • Shortest distance through mapped black -tailed prairie dog colonies, pronghorn winter concentration areas. and mule deer winter concentration areas and severe winter range. • It is the shortest route with the fewest angle structures and parallels existing linear infrastructure for most of its length. • Does not cross chestnut -collared longspur or mountain plover mapped habitats. It also has one of the lowest distances through McCown's longspur mapped core areas. • Reduces visual impacts from 1-25 more than other alternatives. • Of the 12.7 miles in Colorado, approximately 12 miles is adjacent to existing linear infrastructure. ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. OPEN HOUSE AUGUST 15, 2018 ALTERNATIVE COMPARISON Alternative 1, shown on the Alternatives Map as a blue line. generally parallels the railroad on the east for 6.5 miles with a slight divergence to avoid the Biosolids Facility. The route proceeds south along the railroad until it turns to the west and continues to the connection at the Rawhide Substation • Similar to the Preferred Route. avoids siting structures within a 100 -foot buffer of perennial and ephemeral surface water features. wetlands. and riparian vegetation communities. Requires one crossing of a riparian/wetland vegetation area. • Higher impacts on mapped black -tailed prairie dog colonies and pronghorn winter concentration areas. Substantially greater distance through mule deer severe winter range than the preferred route. • Crosses a 0.25 mile buffer around known raptor nests. • Does not cross chestnut -collared longspur or mountain plover mapped habitats. Lowest distances through McCown's longspur mapped core areas. Greatest distance of any route through lark bunting core areas. • 1.2 miles of the route are located within 0.5 mile of 1-25. • Similar to Preferred Route. one residence within 0.25 mile of the route: slightly higher number of properties crossed than the preferred. • More cultural sites within 75 feet of the alignment than the preferred. • Crosses an active railroad at two locations. • Of the13.1 miles in Colorado. approximately 12.4 miles is adjacent to existing linear infrastructure. Alternative 2, shown on the Alternatives Map as a purple line. generally parallels the old Highway 87: follows the other routes to the Rawhide Substation at its southern end. • Lower impacts on mule deer winter concentration areas • Crosses a higher number of prairie dog colonies than the Preferred Route. • Greater distance through a 0.25 mile buffer around known raptor nests. • Does not cross chestnut -collared longspur or mountain plover mapped habitats. Mid -range rating for distances through lark bunting core areas and higher distances through McCown's longspur core areas. • Higher visibility from 1-25 than the preferred. One point one (1.1) mile would be within 0.5 mile of the highway. • Highest number of residences within 0.25 mile of the alignment and greatest number of properties crossed. • Crosses an active railroad at two locations. • Of the13.1 miles in Colorado, approximately 12.5 miles is adjacent to existing linear infrastructure. Has good access from existing surface roads. ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. OPEN HOUSE AUGUST 15, 2018 V • • • • �• — • s.• ais • • • ♦ ♦ • • • • ■ • • ■ a • • • • 0 z -1 SO iC rM ko2 yA irJfE OIy Y i 4 f /1 a a • • • • •. • • • • • • • 0 • PROJECT LOCATION 4 V a Cheyenne m 4 3 A V 5 Preliminary Preferred Cornoor AiternaWe I Corridor mia Alternative 2 Corridor ON Ir. 0 Existing Substation Existng 230kv Transmission — Existing 345kv Transmission Ra -- Oki US Highway d7 •�• ilroad ® Water Body NgPreferred Surface Occupancy 7.1 Controlled Surface Occupancy Umeed Surface Occupancy No Surface Occupancy Consistent with the Energy By Design process resource constraint and opportunity values were organized across four types of surface occupancy areas These opportunities and constraints demonstrate that sensitive land uses and resources set the stage for a reasonable range of transmission route alternatives per Energy By Design itPreferred Surface Occupancy Si -sting -.near •ntra&rucrure Active Railroad Otrier LAildies and Pipelines. Fate and Federal Highways. Existing Electric Transmission Lines Controlled Surface Occupancy (Seasonal Restrictions) • Wit/rre P•onghan Winter Concentration Area Mule Deer Severe and Critics Winter Range Swift Fox Den Sites Black -footed Ferret Black -tailed Prairie Dog • Beds - Raptor Bald Eagle Nests Ferruginous Hawk Nests Golden Eagle Nests Prairie Falcon Nests Swainson s Hawk Nests Western Burrowing Ow Nests Owls and Other Raptor Nests • duos - Non -Raptor Lark Bunting Core Areas McCown s Longspur Core areas Mountain Mover NestURepeat Detection Areas Limited Surface Occupancy vegetation and Surface Wier Seeps and Springs Rare Plant Species WHOM'e Northern Leopard Frog Visual Resources Visibility from Recreational traits i t 5 to 3 5 miles) Land uses Proximity to Residences ;0 25 miles) Oil and Gas Wells n0 25 mites' No Surface Occupancy vegetation and Surface Water Creeks and Streams Seeps and Springs Wetlands Riparian Woodlands and Shrubtands Rare Plant Species Made Black -footed Ferret Northern Leopard Frog _oloraoo Blue Butterfly Hop* due butterfly Birds - Raptor Bald Eagle ( Haliaeetus leucocephalus) Nests Golden Eagle .Aquila :t rysaetosl Nests Prairie Falcon (Falco mexicanus) Nests Owls and Other Raptor Nests Birds - Non -Raptor Chestnut -collared Longspur Breeding .Areas. Mountain Plover Nests/Repeat Detection Areas visual '•'•esources visibility from Recreational Trans .0 to I 5 miles i Cultural Resources Within 3 miles of Llndenmeier Site Land Uses Proximity to Residences industnat/Commercial Buildings Communication Facilities i Towers Conserved Properties Ott and Gas Wens Oil and Gas Tanks/Batteries 2 tarns a ' 1 20 000 Mn. OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS MAP OPEN HOUSE AUGUST 15, 2018 C W O Y L - M R I A N P• G d.. `tg'; 1 CbaNTJ` • • ♦• r • • • •- _ 2 Cn Rd a7 nuctgyn Re .. ✓ ✓ • ■ ✓ • ✓ • • ✓ ■ • ■ • 1 • • 3 * Y 3 — Existing 230kV Transmission — Existing 345kV Transmission 4 1 Prairie Dog Colonies Active in 2017 ky�r Conserved or Managed ACtrve Praare Dog Colonies I Other Raptors - Nests 125 mile bufferl Mountain Plover Staging Areas. Nests and Repeat Detections -Chestnut Collared Longspur Breeding Area 13001 Puffer! Lark Bunting Core Areas (450ft buffer i Note Pronghorn Winter Concentration covers entire map extent • ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE MAP OPEN HOUSE AUGUST 15, 2018 WV OMIN OLOR A D LAND USE MAP I \ • • • • sa Cheyenne most Sam mos_ PROJECT LOCATION $Aeotrpion • Collins . -Loy .... t tY . 'yea d amA r • C Sc Preliminary Preferred Corridor Alternative I Comdor Alternative 2 Corridor i A Stung Area B Existing Substation Existing 230kV Transmission — Exrstmg 345kv Transmission — Old US Highway 87 ++- Rai:road • Residences Residences )200ft buffer) Residences t 25 mile butler) Communication Towers Communication FacAdiestTowers (200! buffer) • Agricusure/Stotage Buildings Industrial Buildings Property Boundaries (Based on County Parcel data) Viewshed from 1.25 (0 to 0 5 mile) ®Vrewsned from Recreation Traits (0 (0 I 5 mks) Viewsned from Recreation Trails I 1 5 to 3 5 miles) r 20 000 V. OPEN HOUSE AUGUST 15, 2018 City of Fort Collins Sustanability Sustainability is defined by City of Fort Collins as the long-term social, economic, and environmental health of the community, the "triple bottom line." Sustainability is an optimal mix of resource efficiency, cost effectiveness, and community well-being. Considering Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project's Triple Bottom Line: D Environmental Health- The Roundhouse Re- newable Energy project would reduce emis- sions from Fort Collins by approximately 10%, positively impacting Fort Collins' Climate Action Plan goals. Environmental Health- Energy by Design methodology is being used to independently consider the transmission line route options to ensure the fewest impacts to natural, cultural, and aesthetic resources. The City is collaborat- ing with Roundhouse Renewable Energy to avoid, minimize, and mitigate potential impacts to Meadow Springs Ranch and the regional landscape. Social Health- The community has a voice in the approval process through this open house, an online comment form, City Advisory Boards and Commissions, and City Council. City of Fort Collins City of Fort Collins Climate Action Plan The Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project will have a significant impact toward achieving Fort Collins' Climate Action goals. Fort Collins City Council is committed to climate action and has adopted the goals of reducing carbon emissions: 20% below 2005 levels by 2020 80% below 2005 levels by 2030 Carbon neutral by 2050 All residents play an important role in implementing your city's Climate Action Plan. The 2017 carbon inventory shows that the commu- nity has decreased its greenhouse gas emissions by 17% from 2005 levels thanks to local, regional, and national action. CAP Results 1001000 2]00.000 IOW 000 dtsoo ouu 000noo aom notation Resat own Eronvnn Goal 0 ,001 170 t 0000000000000000000000000000 — _u. nm 2O17 INVEN TORY: 17%below 2005 Jos $O% Radiation roes 1010 If fully online in 2021, the Roundhouse project has the potential to assist the City with its climate action goals by reducing community -wide emissions almost 10 percent. I mot Collins Meet Meadow Springs Ranch Meadow Springs Ranch is a City of Fort Collins Utility -owned 26,600 -acre ranch near the Wyoming border. It is the land application site for regulatory compliant biosolids (a nutrient -rich organic material created from the biological and physical treatment of wastewater). Meadow Springs is a working cattle ranch that emphasizes environmental conservation and stewardship. Meadow Springs Ranch Natural Values Wildlife habitat Rare plants and animals including the federally endangered black -footed ferret and threatened Colorado butterfly plant Wide open vistas Intact shortgrass prairie supporting the full suite of grassland species native to this region Perennial streams with legally protected flows (due to their high biological values), native plains fish and amphibians A landscape containing significant archaeological sites FCity of ort Collins Laramie Foothills Mountains to Plains Landscape erokee State ildlife Area .' Fort Collins Natural Area 0 0.5 I 2 Uik< Robert's Ranch Prig ate Conservation Easement sevelt National Forest Bel% tai r Ranch City of Cheyenne Red Mountain Open Space i.arimer Count u lr's Nest )pen Spacer -*rime ret au n Soapstone Prairie Natural Area City of Fort Collins Rawhide Power Plant Meadow Springs Ranch City of Fort Collins Utilities Meadow Springs Ranch .2 Fort Collins Utilities f Fort Collins Latimer County Open Space State Land Board Bureau of Land Management' Conservation Easement State Wildlife Area - Wind Energy Facility • US Forest Service The Nature Conservancy - Other Public Lands Data Mount.: Fort Collin., t.arimrrCount, a; CO\lap City of Fort Collins Analysis of Transmission Line Routes The City of Fort Collins independently analyzed the transmission line alternatives considering factors such as: Surface water and riparian areas Rare plants Rare plant communities Pronghorn and mule deer wintering areas Black -footed ferrets and black -tailed prairie dog colonies Grassland birds Raptors Viewshed impacts Habitat fragmentation Cultural resources The City of Fort Collins and Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project agree on the preferred alignment. Strategies to avoid, minimize and mitigate any potential impacts are being discussed and will be presented to City Council in the fall as part of the easement request. FCity of ort Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Comments to City of Fort Collins Fort Collins City Council has two decisions to make regarding the Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project permitting process: 1. Whether to grant an easement across Meadow Springs Ranch for the above -ground transmission lines 2. Whether to issue a cooperating agency letter of support to Larimer County's and Weld County's 1041 permit process The Roundhouse wind energy facility is undergoing a permitting process with the State of Wyoming. The City of Fort Collins is monitoring that permitting process as well as the viewshed and other topics associated with a nearby wind energy facility. Your opinions matter and your comments will be shared with Fort Collins City Council, Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project developers, and local regulators. City of �tCollins • • } S ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Public Meeting Summary August 15, 2018 Attachment 2: Sign In Sheets ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Public Open House Sign -In Sheet August 15, 2018 Fort Collins, CO Name - Mailing Address E -Mail Address Add to Mailing List (Y/N) L0N/ til k Vas Li 0 truci3 ?41/41\3e\A") ` -1Oc1) 514\4;NL (OsIM Y terlist...5 1A00( UC63cc R4- up 1S)..14,+c-1°AC+1 76\a o-i - L Pr I\ 1 iM \ 5G �- --72 a�9 � 2 7'`` sv 54 / z 4 add. I Z�,vu ,N, T , ei of y �c.� ct,/, eat `"'e / X05-3.7 � • CU ; r� rte , @ (typo cones T3CArCSJS 0� e, ( co,,,).p Sluserm .� (e--8 ILI A I�P1k�irmanciaLsaq5Z� �eEu �oSee' s gall, . 6/:#44, 400IJ Jr,-, % 22 C 6 ntu�i'''qO .4 CA NWSOrn b [-ne eJSor" 6 Qc r-c,l.Coff ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Public Open House Sign -In Sheet August 15, 2018 Fort Collins, CO Name Mailing Address E -Mail Address Add to Mailing List (Y/N) j.b..3.--.01-00:cmN Z Z L,iiiJO‘-;1C r- z U se,%-c-t-S-ine•. .-, .5 pr. Cx_L,Ay /rd`,"� Giert / , • (.0f\ ---- T\ 1 e(*), /1e /cir its. c,otic- 67 (1/10( r:s I P€5cM0t 5 C A& ` I N 027 c9 1(Olt\ FT �� tk wracktteIvc 1' C.0 o.%I.cdy IZJA 5 1\ utkA 16 & 9.---4.4 SI asar-F Cpl/ r A 5 r(4 -11t_ ble\t(4,,, rt HL flL&Lv �hQ fie,C� � ( C€44 ( h it, j 3" I it c k► vino rcl . r'r / S h. C o Q-- Q) y ski ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Public Open House Sign -In Sheet August 15, 2018 Fort Collins, CO Nome Moiling Address E -Moil Address Add to Moiling List (Y/N) --ke‘. -C ' 1 r C 0 LJ )19 ci R -k C4- ki___ or i I ,_ rr-s . c_ a ,..,r, 7 ("Ram 1` c 0\ r CA C 9S - 6C_,S U Ccaci1A CCU\cS , chi` (Lc� CA° C -\e. 6 / 11 Skcd /2/ )- - e_. e my (hew` s@ 'au& et.P-7 8 acc'elott a 3'7 Co 7 brrat6 C u`,•j RI) Ilinr O SILO- ' co In-Th 12.0 a COAST. ec. Crt •,d rl \(eS &51( ii. -..-11,-) --la-5 irWcczi2640 If-,ues @ 16;e �A ,e. C,8 es t 1„,,, - ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Public Open House Sign -In Sheet August 15, 2018 Fort Collins, CO Name Mailing Address E -Mail Address Add to Mailing List (V/N) 91;iinegliiiii4,,, -f._ )z-fq rre zi o 1 \ , 0 f, 60 SCJ�rO e --Y 92 3 Tfo RQC A -rc 60.5-7_/ tic_ . is �' nom, - Cal' po%,r3 ir3 LaN Nthrk e c kS �. �.r.�� ttZ, F t . 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ED U cnbmc.kcen EpRnActif ( COI ( D._ +4 1 --r i m64-74) e‘' P5(IAtS v j rYlho r i` ) Mila 6rell toti a - ctirQ5% chit . i5.490--2 2 etc,ifa. 5 • 4&--) C2 -e. 4-, 46,44 yereA �,1(/[��] 5 ° 4 C Cj p3 SorZr i e Qe/t.C t~ic@j 4 N OD , Co-., //�//�\\�\ _ , � f a 7 rte's ( I > J r k c© ,asis , (4 rtL �c3 � v- .4) "' I t v a . _. \ LA 2:\ ZC 1-r Ve_ael, h\AeAkraw,cts,,AsroLiThG) C. -Ito -c- t -.,-P e` O U /(ii4A 44(l/elf 2736 b0A loot Cf. r.f. 6./(0, co AD c. c Mvsescx...„ \ . k.'►„4•tk;l(R.r Ct 9 7*4i/ca,t.._ ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Public Open House Sign -In Sheet August 15, 2018 Fort Collins, CO Name Mailing Address E -Mail Address Add to Moiling List (YIN) Li Le*iv 40i3G1 SoIAts `tif inApV CO Sei7if Pny p l (Y) uciii %S\ R--0--(--0\\'' RC -S \S I?OC1.4-\c'hi\\Qb\n`":\ y .t... c_)L‘r‘. ,_--4, (A) „Q ',nsvt,--a,Qt1/4-da-( v.i (2re.,...,c,,,t.A.... s-- -1 e --i , 303 2 ,_,, l'51 -61-(a__) Zo ch,ti 7/3 pciefil - - r (O c k sz- rathd-h-4 - C6 0 4, (K1-14Ase 70 4 For+ E , Co 6-1-1(1h<i. I i ihs C -C) I silirob 1'1 -0 yeck?c, a . Cdki y fil cc" \3r51A BIG CO kc , .. &,,, LOPO(o 1 AILS ,\,_\,_ -Fwaos AAVIG tfriftty ( ,)/v1 , 'y cCZ`-( , "Rz—LE ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Public Open House Sign -In Sheet August 15, 2018 Fort Collins, CO , Name Mailing Address E -Mail Address Add to Mailing List (YIN) 3 v' , �� IeSse.Wattlnekolguoir rknosp- flcjrnYriO1 e-'4- coo r _ I i0,5 ;-c t ► r . te- \a/ i sag Lr 64 lA -r kr s r . ccv Una I E. LoQrleeldidi Co $1/I L "41e/i/ roil ekr,11 ry vin.- L vo ci7 v /-5 -1gr 1, Co,1z 'Se?, e-/ -61:3494a6- , 7 ``..,er fcsts—n /l Co /C•0 /)/9- 7 % /ge s ene,t,c,„Vi D vIc Tr P Z 7 �wA2-TTeD Riste-/fi 5 co-,Der,d „it% 39,.-4\(01\-\rsVi1c+ Svn\AVeatf--,,,v, r . on A park_ sig-Lusi,,,,akt, TeitA Skaimiewvt_ .-- � ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Public Open House Sign -In Sheet August 15, 2018 Fort Collins, CO Name Mailing Address E -Mail Address Add to Mailing List (Y/N) ' C --ti 5‘111 A. (4, w v1 ca nkr � RJ 2c3 , F Sle4.34. d- Jena it_ 1 z/Ic I i* 2103 7'Atttt.s.o... -De---- Fe- Co gDS Zse e.aF, iL2 EVC1, I i 14,Cf w j • CCC--sr-) 1,; �1 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Public Open House Sign -In Sheet August 15, 2018 Fort Collins, CO Name Mailing Address E -Mail Address Add to Mailing List (YIN) tti1.1 kS .q3r VcLte10c1L 34. n L",vc,(s,a1 Co rjcJS�‘g b AYe 3 44d14 C� 7 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project Public Open House Sign -In Sheet August 15, 2018 Fort Collins, CO Name Mailing Address E -Mail Address Add to Mailing List (Y/N) Lam-- 31CIt' 4-Eng 4-C629\Arc-r-'L, Written Comments Received Date Do you support Fort Collins City Council granting an easement across Meadow Springs Ranch for the above -ground transmission line to deliver renewable energy from the wind generation facility to the Rawhide Energy Station? Do you support the City of Fort Collins providing a cooperating agency letter of support to Larimer County's and Weld County's 1041 permit process? Please share any other comments here: If you'd like to follow this project by receiving updates, please share your email address: August 15, 2018 Yes Yes I'm interested in learning more about further attempts to join a regional energy market. blnewsomb@gmail.com August 15, 2018 Yes Yes This seems like a wonderful addition to the City of Fort Collins Utilities. August 15, 2018 Yes; Parallel to BNSF train tracks is ideal route, preferred or Alt 1 route, keep powerline along already disturbed land. Yes; The city should support this for increasing renewable power and to meet climate plan goals. Jd.johnson@aei.com August 15, 2018 Yes; This is in line with the city/citizen goals and we are fortunate to own the land to make granting the easement possible. Yes Keep pushing towards the renewable energy goals. Thanks! August 15, 2018 Yes Yes August 15, 2018 Yes Yes August 15, 2018 Yes; This project is a huge win for PRPA its customers and their customers IE citizens and the environment! Yes; Again we cannot afford to pass up this opportunity. Our environment depends on our actions and this is a major win for the environment. I full support the climate action plan and this project. Steve.wolley@broadcom.com August 15, 2018 Yes; We cannot meet our CAP goals without this transmission plan. Yes; Same comment as above. We need the full 225 MW and combine this with more solar. August 15, 2018 Yes; Please! Yes; Please! I appreciate seeing the alternate route (following the RR) that is great. August 15, 2018 Yes Yes August 15, 2018 Yes Yes Seems well researched and planned. Good move toward renewables. August 15, 2018 Yes Yes Gtodd@g2unlimitedmsg@gmail.com August 15, 2018 Yes; Absolutely this project is critical to NoCOO's future. This transmission line will be Yes; Yes, the City should work closely with the Exercise the 75 MW action on the project by Dec Kevin.henryconsulting@gmail.com a renewable resource and enable sourcing of larger amounts of RE. counties to expedite the permitting process. 2018. The proposed lines can accommodate these cations and further increase the renewable investment. August 15, 2018 Yes Yes Sounds like a great project! Sean mcgill2@hotmail.com August 15, 2018 Yes Yes janellemcgill@hotmail.com August 15, 2018 Yes Yes August 15, 2018 Yes Yes eberlep@yahoo.com August 15, 2018 Yes Yes August 15, 2018 Somewhat Somewhat August 15, 2018 Yes Yes August 15, 2018 Neutral Yes Alternative energy projects are important to the community. Hoping this one is sited well to reduce impacts to the environment. August 15, 2018 Yes Yes bill@ic.org August 15, 2018 Yes Yes Great project. Benefits far outweigh minimal impacts. August 15, 2018 Yes; We need to get 100% clean energy for this area as quickly as possible 2050 is too late. Yes grlocker@outlook.com August 15, 2018 Yes; We need to have clean air and 2050 is too long to wait. Yes Yes; tkashbaugh@comcast.net August 15, 2018 Somewhat Somewhat Would like to see the city have storage batteries?? HSRBN@yahoo.com August 15, 2018 Yes Yes August 15, 2018 Yes Yes I appreciate the effort and thought that the city, utilities, and PRPA have put into the project. I agree with the preferred route for the transmission line. More wind power is great. K artell@msn.com August 15, 2018 Yes Yes Fully support this project. August 15, 2018 Yes Yes August 15, 2018 Yes Yes August 15, 2018 Yes Yes Decommissioning. What happens if NextEra is no longer in business when the turbines are no longer useful? August 15, 2018 Yes Yes There seem to be more advantages than disadvantages. August 15, 2018 Yes Yes Mackuehn98@hotmail.com Online Comments to City of Fort Collins Yes Yes Doug.baker@comcast.net Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Project Siting Study November 2018 Prepared for Roundhouse Renewable Energy. LLC Prepared by Logan Simpson 213 Linden Street. Suite 300 Fort Collins, Colorado 80524 • 6• LOGANSIMPSON fly GUIDING RESPONSIBLE CHANGE ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Contents 1.0 Introduction 1-1 Project Overview 1-1 Project Components 1-3 1.1.1 Structure Type 1-3 1.1.2 Right -of -Way Requirements 1-3 2.0 Siting Study Process 2-1 Step 1: Develop Utility Engineering Requirements and Establish the Siting Area 2-1 Step 2: Analyze Existing Policy Framework and Guidance 2-1 Step 3: Collect Relevant Land Use and Environmental Data 2-2 Step 4: Develop Opportunities and Constraints 2-3 Step 5: Define Preliminary Alternative Transmission Routes 2-3 Step 6: Gather Agency, Landowner, and Public Input 2-12 Summary of Discussion 2-12 Step 7: Collect Additional Data and Refine Transmission Line Route 2-13 Step 8: Rank and Document Results 2-13 3.0 Overview of the Project Siting Area Resources and Criteria 3-1 Vegetation and Surface Water 3-1 Wildlife 3-2 Birds — Raptor 3-4 Birds — Non -raptor 3-6 Visual Resources 3-8 Land Uses 3-8 Cultural Resources 3-9 Engineering Factors 3-9 Existing Linear Infrastructure 3-9 iii ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study 4.0 Development and Evaluation of Alternative Transmission Routes 4-1 Evaluation Criteria 4-1 4.1.1 Vegetation and Surface Water 4-9 4.1.2 Wildlife 4-9 4.1.3 Birds — Raptor 4-9 4.1.4 Birds — Non -raptor 4-9 4.1.5 Visual Resources 4-9 4.1.6 Land Uses 4-10 4.1.7 Cultural Resources 4-10 4.1.8 Engineering Factors 4-10 4.1.9 Existing Linear Infrastructure 4-10 Alternative Transmission Route Ranking and Results 4-11 4.1.10 Route 2B (Preferred) 4-15 4.1.11 Route 2C 4-16 4.1.12 Route 3B 4-17 4.1.13 Route 4 4-18 4.1.14 Route 5A 4-19 4.1.15 Route 5B 4-20 Conclusions 4-21 5.0 References 5-1 IV ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study List of Tables Table 2-1 Opportunity and Constraint Criteria 2-4 Table 3-1 Wetland/Waterbody Features in the Siting Area 3-2 Table 3-2 Special Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Siting Area 3-2 Table 3-3 Raptor Species with Potential to Occur in the Siting Study Area 3-4 Table 3-4 Non -Raptor Species with Potential to Occur in the Siting Area 3-6 Table 4-1 Triple Bottom Line Evaluation Category Criteria 4-2 Table 4-2 Alternative Route Comparison 4-5 List of Figures Figure 1 Project Overview 1-2 Figure 2 Photograph of Typical Transmission Structure - 230kV Single Circuit Tangent 1-3 Figure 3 Opportunities and Constraints 2-10 Figure 4 Preliminary Alternative Corridors 2-11 Figure 5 Triple Bottom Line Evaluation Categories . 4-2 Figure 6 Route Alternatives 4-4 Figure 7 Environmental Route Evaluation Results 4-12 Figure 8 Social Route Evaluation Results 4-13 Figure 9 Economic Route Evaluation Results 4-14 v ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study List of Acronyms APLIC Avian Power Line Interaction Committee APP Avian Protection Plan BGEPA Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act BMPs Best Management Practices CDOT Colorado Department of Transportation CNHP Colorado Natural Heritage Program COGCC Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission CPW Colorado Parks and Wildlife CR County Road EBD Energy by Design EXPN Experimental Population, Non -essential GAP Gap Analysis Project GIS Geographic Information Systems 1-25 Interstate 25 MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act NA Not Applicable NESC National Electrical Safety Code NHD National Hydrography Dataset NWI National Wetlands Inventory OAHP Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation Project Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Platte River Platte River Power Authority Rawhide Rawhide Energy Station RHRE Roundhouse Renewable Energy ROW Right -of -Way SGCN Species of Greatest Conservation Need SHPO State Historic Preservation Office SLB Colorado State Land Board USDA-NAIP U.S. Department of Agriculture - National Agriculture Imagery Program USEPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service USGS U.S. Geological Survey vi ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study 1.0 Introduction The purpose of this Siting Study is to present the alternative development and selection process for the Colorado portion of the Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Project (Project). an approximately 13 -mile transmission line from the proposed Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project (Project) southwest of Cheyenne. Wyoming to the Platte River Power Authority (Platte River) Rawhide Energy Station (Rawhide) in northern Colorado. The overall purpose of the Siting Study is to select a preferred transmission line route based on a careful triple bottom line analysis of the environmental. economic. and social impact following the Larimer County and City of Fort Collins Energy by Design model (The Nature Conservancy 2013) Further. this study will demonstrate to applicable municipal and county jurisdictions and to the public that reasonable alternative routes for the transmission line were considered_ The Siting Study begins with a Project overview that includes the purpose. need, and the Project design criteria. The Siting Study process is then described. including an analysis of the existing policy framework and guidance: data collection: development of evaluation criteria: development of alternatives. and evaluation of alternatives based on the evaluation criteria Finally, the results of the evaluation are presented in Chapter 4 with detailed mapping for the alternative transmission line routes. The Siting Study concludes with recommendations for a preferred transmission line route. The Siting Study will serve as an appendix to the Larimer County and Weld County 1041 permits that are required for project construction and operation Public input will be solicited and considered in Project planning A summary of the open house will be included in Section 2 of this report Project Overview The Project delivers renewable electrical power from the Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project southwest of Cheyenne. Wyoming to Rawhide. The Siting Study area was defined from the Wyoming/Colorado state line to Rawhide to allow a reasonable range of transmission line alternatives to be developed (Figure 1). Potential routes for the Project were identified based on consideration of a variety of criteria including, but not limited to. the following: • Vegetation and Surface Water: • Wildlife. including grassland birds and raptors. • Visual Resources: • Land Uses: • Cultural Resources: • Engineering factors: • Existing Linear Infrastructure: and • Public input Tables in Chapter 4 present the results of the evaluation process for the alternative routes considered. ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study i I j I I I I M 4 a SOAPS PRA we Ala TL*ALAREA Figure 1 Project Overview Song Area O Exiting Substation a� Ex 'step 230kV Transmission �- Ecstng 345kV Transmission -- Old US Highway 87 Local Roads Railroad Stream V ater Body Meadow Sprngs Rarer r City of Fort Cohn Natural Area Roundhouse Lease Area PRPA Owned Property ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT "rcje: Oven. e... Roundhouse Renewable Energy 1-2 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Project Components 1.1.1 Structure Type The transmission line will consist of single -pole self-supporting steel monopole structures. angle structures_ and dead end structures Monopole structures will range in height from 80 to 130 feet. depending on length of span_ The typical span length between transmission structures is 800 feet. but longer spans of 1.000 feet can be achieved to span environmental or sensitive resources. The type of pole to be used for the transmission line will be determined prior to submittal of the 1041 application. Figure 2 includes a photograph of a typical 230kV single circuit tangent transmission structure. Steel monopole structures are planned for the Project because steel has a longer lifespan than wood and requires less maintenance. Monopole structures also generally have a smaller footprint than other types of transmission structures. All angle and corner structures will be placed on drilled pier foundations while tangent structures will be directly buried. All design criteria will comply with applicable statutes and codes. including the appropriate edition of the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) and RHREs design standards. 1.1.2 Right -of -Way Requirements The Project will be constructed almost entirely within an anticipated successfully negotiated right-of-way (ROW) easement with the City of Fort Collins. other private properties. and state land. A 150 -foot -wide easement is necessary for the 230kV transmission line. Trees and vegetation within the proposed easement will be removed only if they impede safe construction and operation of the Project. Brush and vegetation cleared from the ROW are typically mulched and salvaged. if possible. Trees and shrubs removed for this Project will be replaced in other suitable locations outside of the ROW. The easement will be used for access during the construction phase. as well as for long-term maintenance_ Ingress and egress to the easement will be accomplished from adjacent public roads. or where necessary. through procurement of easements through City of Fort Collins or other private property. Figure 2 Photograph of Typical Transmission Structure - 230kV Single Circuit Tangent 3 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study 2.0 Siting Study Process A comprehensive siting process was applied. The process considers electric system planning_ economics. the natural, cultural. and visual environment. public involvement. regulatory issues. land rights. land use. and engineering criteria. The overall siting process used to define and analyze alternatives is summarized below. The process is ongoing. fluid. and refinements are incorporated at all stages of Project development. The Siting Study process followed these iterative steps: • Step 1: Develop utility engineering requirements and establish the siting area: • Step 2: Analyze existing policy framework and guidance; • Step 3: Collect relevant land use and environmental data: • Step 4 Develop opportunities and constraints: • Step 5: Define preliminary alternative transmission routes. • Step 6: Gather agency. landowner. and public input; • Step 7: Collect additional data and refine transmission line route: and • Step ft Rank and document results. Step 1: Develop Utility Engineering Requirements and Establish the Siting Area A siting area was defined with sufficient size to accomplish electrical system objectives and encompass a reasonable range of routing alternatives. The overall siting area extends north -south from the Wyoming/Colorado border to the interconnection point at the Rawhide substation. It extends west -east from approximately 0.5 mile east of the Soapstone Prairie Natural Area to a point approximately one mile east of Interstate 25 (1-25). an area of over 40 square miles or nearly 26,000 acres. The siting area includes portions of Larimer and Weld counties. in northern Colorado. Most of the siting area is owned by the City of Fort Collins Utilities and is managed as Meadow Springs Ranch. This 26.600 acre ranch was purchased and serves as an integral part of the wastewater treatment process for regulatory compliant biosolids application. The ranch is also managed for livestock grazing. wildlife, and a range of natural resource values. Small areas of private land are interspersed within and around the boundaries of Meadow Springs Ranch. One parcel of state land is located along the Colorado/Wyoming border. None of the properties within the siting area are open to the public. Step 2: Analyze Existing Policy Framework and Guidance The Larimer County Master Plan and the Weld County Comprehensive Plan (County Code. Chapter 22) were reviewed. along with the guidance in the Larimer County and Weld County adopted 1041 Areas and Activities of State Interest regulations and Weld County Use by Special Review permit criteria. Key points from these land use policies and regulations include consideration of and minimizing effects on key natural. cultural. and visual resources and land uses through an evaluation of alternative transmission routes. 2-1 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study In 2013. the Colorado State Land Board (SLB), Larimer County, and the City of Fort Collins partnered to produce the Energy by Design Report (The Nature Conservancy 2013). which provides a methodology and recommendations to avoid. minimize. and mitigate the potential impacts of oil and gas development within a 60,000 acre area that includes the Meadow Springs Ranch and environs The report identifies priority biological. cultural. scenic. and recreational resource values and recommends areas for avoidance. minimization of impacts, and preferred areas for oil and gas development. In addition, the report identifies timing limitations for biological resources. restoration standards: and other mitigation. While not developed for electrical transmission facilities. the Energy by Design Report offers a useful framework and comprehensive background data to guide the siting process. The City of Fort Collins' management plan for Meadow Springs Ranch (prepared in 2012 and currently under revision) was also consulted for guidance. Key points from the County Comprehensive Plans, adopted regulations. Energy by Design Report. and Meadow Springs Ranch Management Plan include minimizing effects to the following resources and uses: • Vegetation (including special status plants): • Surface water. riparian areaswetlands. and floodplains: • Wildlife. avian (including raptors). and special status wildlife species' habitats: • Visual resources: • Land uses. specifically residences and conserved properties: • Cultural resources; and • The Energy by Design Report further emphasizes co -locating development near previous and existing linear disturbances such as along roads and the railroad. Step 3: Collect Relevant Land Use and Environmental Data Relevant information on land use. natural resources. and other criteria was collected within an overall siting area including jurisdictional boundaries. land uses, oil and gas facilities. existing transmission lines. natural resources. and cultural data. This information provided an overall characterization of the siting area and informed the initial siting criteria and opportunities. Data representing agency and landowner guidance (Step 2 and Table 4-1) was critical to the siting process. Significant effort was made to gather relevant and current data to accurately depict areas of concern and areas of opportunity for the transmission route alternatives. Accordingly. collaboration with involved parties was integral for the collection of accurate and complete GIS data for the siting area. Baseline GIS data was collected from a number of sources. including. but not limited to: • City of Fort Collins (Natural Areas. Utilities): • Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT): • Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP): • Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC). 2-2 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study • Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW): • Digitized data from aerial imagery (ESRI. USDA-NAIP, Google): • Larimer County: • Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (OAHP): • Roundhouse Renewable Energy and consultant team (Logan Simpson and AECOM) • State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO): • U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS): • U.S. Geological Survey (USGS): and • Weld County. Field data were also utilized. Quality control and assessment was performed on the data to identify discrepancies and supplement existing sources. The data was then organized into criteria categories that were used to evaluate transmission route alternatives. Step 4: Develop Opportunities and Constraints Consistent with the Energy by Design process. the resource constraint and opportunity values were organized across four types of surface occupancy guidelines: Preferred Surface Occupancy, Controlled Surface Occupancy (Seasonal Restrictions). Limited Surface Occupancy. and No Surface Occupancy (Table 2-1). Figure 3. Opportunities and Constraints. is the result of an intensive process of identifying and prioritizing criteria and opportunities. The intent of the opportunities and criteria step is to demonstrate that conserving sensitive land uses and resources are priorities when identifying a reasonable range of transmission route alternatives. per the Energy by Design Report. Step 5: Define Preliminary Alternative Transmission Routes During this step. a comprehensive range of alternative transmission line routes was identified. The opportunity and constraint criteria presented in Table 2-1 were considered to the extent possible. The alternatives were mapped and iteratively refined against the opportunities and constraints and engineering considerations. such as the number of angle structures. transmission line length. and length adjacent to existing linear infrastructure (Figure 4). 2-3 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Table 2-1 Opportunity and Constraint Criteria -re -rreI ontro es u ace Surface Occupancy Occupancy (Seasonal Restrictions) Limited Surface Occupancy No Surface Occupancy Data Sources Vegetation and Surface Water Creeks and Streams N A N/A N/A 1001 from high - mark of perennial and �� ephemeral creeks and streams Buffer derived from. - USGS- NHD Flowline dataset. Seeps and Springs N/A N/A 300 to 600 feet 0 to 300 feet - No data, currently, for this criterion. Wetlands N/A N/A N/A 100 feet from wetland edge Buffer derived from: - National Wetlands Inventory (USFWS 2008) Riparian Woodlands and Shrublands N/A N/A N/A 100 feet from vegeta ion cover boundary 1, Buffer derived from: - National GAP Analysis Program (USGS 2016) and digitized aerials Rare Plant Species:Colorado butterfly plant (Laura neomexicana var. coloradensis N/A N/A 300 to 600 feet from mapped occurrences Buffers derive from: - Rare Plant Locations dataset developed by the CNHP (CNHP 2017). 0 to 300 feet from mappd:L, occurrences Wildlife Pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) Winter Concentration Area N/A No human disturbance or construction activity within winter concentration areas west of 1-25 from January 1 through March 31 N/APr = - CPW Pronghorn Winter Concentration dataset (CPW 2016). - -- - • -- - - - -- non_, Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus) Severe and Critical Winter Range N/A No human activity from 3:00 pm to 10:00 am From December 1 through April 15 N/A y,. - CPW Mule Deer Severe Winter Range dataset (CPW 2016). Swift Fox (Vulpes velox) Den Sites N/A No construction activity while young are den -dependent 0.25 mile from active den sites from March 15 through June 15 N/A NIA`, - Swift fox data from the Energy by Design report (City of Fort Collins 2013). Black -footed Ferret N/A No construction activity N/A Active black -tailed prairie '. - Black -tailed prairie dog colony data for Soapstone Prairie Natural Area 2-4 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Table 2-1 Opportunity and Constraint Criteria Preferred Surface Occupancy Controlled Surface Occupancy (Seasonal Restrictions) Limited Surface Occupancy No Surface Occupancy Data Sources (Mustela nignpes) prairie dog colonies where BFF occur from Feb 1 through July 31 hill t .-.Wgn- z;s p :: dog management zone o..-' conservation zone. and Meadow Springs Ranch (City of Fort Collins 2017). Black -tailed Prairie Dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) N/A No construction activity within and over colonies from Feb 1 through July 31 (see Resource Protection Standards for details) N/A N/A - - - Black -tailed prairie dog colony data for Soapstone Prairie Natural Area and Meadow Springs Ranch (City of Fort Collins 2017). Northern Leopard Frog (Lithobates pip/ens) N/A N/A 300 to 600 feet from the legal edge of wetlands 0 to 300 foot buffer from the legal edge of wetlands - No known occurrences within siting area. To be determined pending verification of wetland data source Colorado Blue Butterfly Hops blue butterfly (Celastrina humulus) N/A N/A N/A 0 to 300 feet from mapped occurrences - No known occurrences within siting area Birds - Raptor Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) Nest N/A No human disturbance or construction activity within 0.5 mile buffer around active nest from November 15 through July 31 N/A 0. 25 mile from active n and historic nest Buffers derived from: - ENYO Spring 2018 aerial survey data (ENYO, 2018). - CPW raptor nest site dataset (CPW 2018) - City of Fort Collins raptor nest survey data (2018). Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo regalis) Nest N/A No human disturbance or construction activity within 0.5 mile from active or alternate nests from February 1 through July 15 N/A N/ ` Buffer derived from: - City of Fort Collins raptor nest survey data (2018). - CPW raptor nest site dataset (CPW 2018) - ENYO Spring 2018 aerial survey data (ENYO 2018). ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Table 2-1 Opportunity and Constraint Criteria Preferred Surface Occupancy Controlled Surface Occupancy (Seasonal Restrictions) Limited Surface Occupancy No Surface Occupancy Data Sources Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) Nest N/A No human disturbance or construction activity within 0.5 mile from active nests from December 15 through July 15 N/A _ 0.25 mile from active and alternate nests ...... - . Buffers derived from. - Golden eagle data from the Energy by Design report to the Colorado State Land Board (City of Fort Collins 2013) - City of Fort Collins raptor nest survey data (2018). - ENYO Spring 2018 aerial survey data (ENYO, 2018). - CPW raptor nest site dataset (CPW 2018) Prairie Falcon (Falco mexicanus) Nest N/A No human disturbance within 0.5 mile from active nests from March 15 through July 15 N/A Buffers derived from: - Prairie falcon data from the Energy by Design report to the Colorado State Land Board (City of Fort Collins 2013). - City of Fort Collins raptor nest survey data (2018). - CPW raptor nest site dataset (CPW 2018) i' 0.25 mile from active nests' Swainson's Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) Nest N/A No human disturbance within 0.25 mile from active nests from April 1 through July 15 N/A Buffer derived from. - Swainson's hawk data from the Energy by Design report to the Colorado State Land Board (City of Fort Collins 2013). - City of Fort Collins raptor nest survey data (2018). - CPW raptor nest site dataset (CPW 2018) Western Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) Nest N/A No construction activity within 300 feet of active nests from March 1 through August 15 N/A Buffer derived from: - Burrowing owl data from the Energy by Design report to the Colorado State Land Board (City of Fort Collins, 2013). - CPW raptor nest site dataset (CPW 2018) 2-6 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Table 2-1 Opportunity and Constraint Criteria Preferred Surface Occupancy Controlled Surface Occupancy (Seasonal Restrictions) Limited Surface Occupancy No Surface Occupancy Data Sources Owls and Other Raptor Nest N/A Varies by species 4 j0 25 mile from active nei. iiir_ Buffers derived from - Other raptor data from the Energy by Design report to the Colorado State Land Board (City of Fort Collins 2013). - City of Fort Collins raptor nest survey data (2018). - ENYO Spring 2018 aerial survey data (ENVO 2018) - CPW raptor nest site dataset (CPW 2018). Birds — Non -Raptor Chestnut -collared Longspur (Calcanus ornatus) Breeding Areas N/A N/A N/A - ='eeding area plus a 3S foot buffer ; _. Buffer derived from - - Digitized breeding areas, from Map 5. - Biological Values of Energy by Design Report to the Colorado State Land Board (City of Fort Collins 2013). (Georeferenced Map). Lark Bunting (Calamospiza melanocorys) Core Areas N/A Core area plus a 450 foot buffer N/A N/A _- .... __ _ . - - Buffer derived from lark bunting data from the Energy by Design report to the Colorado State Land Board (City of Fort Collins 2013). McCown's Longspur (Rhynchophanes mccownii) Core Areas N/A Core area plus a 450 foot buffer N/A _ _ _____ - Buffer derived from McCown's longspur data from the Energy by Design report to the Colorado State Land Board (City of Fort Collins 2013). Mountain Plover (Charadrius montanus) Staging Area N/A N/A N/A Staging area plus a 60® foot buffer Buffer derived from: - Digitized staging areas, from Map 5. - Biological Values of Energy by Design Report to the Colorado State Land Board (City of Fort Collins 2013). (Georeferenced Map). Mountain Plover Nest/Repeat Detection N/A No construction activity within 0.25 mile from 0 25 mile buffer Buffers derived from: - Digitized nest/repeat detections, 2-7 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Table 2-1 Opportunity and Constraint Criteria Preferred Surface Occupancy Controlled Surface Occupancy (Seasonal Restrictions) Limited Surface Occupancy No Surface Occupancy Data Sources Areas occupied nests from April 1 through May 15 - from Map 5. - Biological Values of Energy by Design Report to the Colorado State Land Board (City of Fort Collins 2013). (Georeferenced Map). Visual Resources Visibility from Recreational Trails N/A N/A Visible in background (1.5 to 3.5 miles) Visible within distance of 0 i — 1.5 miles - Visibility layers created using ArcGIS software, viewshed analysis using a height of 75-120 feet / Object height 120 feet, Viewer height 5 feet. Land Uses Proximity to Residences N/A N/A Within 0.25 mile of occupied residence Within 200 feet of an occupied residence - Residence locations digitized using multiple imagery sources (ESRI World Imagery, USDA 2017- NAIP Imagery, and Google Imagery -2018). Industrial/Commercial Buildings N/A N/A N/A Within 100 feet of potential" centerline - Commercial building locations digitized using multiple imagery sources ESRI World Imagery,USDA ( 2017- NAIP Imagery, and Google Imagery -2018). Communication Facilities / Towers N/A N/A N/A Within 200 feet of facilit"` - Communication facility locations digitized using multiple imagery sources (ESRI World Imagery, USDA 2017- NAIP Imagery, Google Imagery -2018). Conserved Properties N/A N/A N/A Crosses parcel with existing encumbran - F•,, -CoMAP version 9 (CNHP, 2012) Oil and Gas Wells N/A N/A Within 0.25 mile Within 200 feet 1 - No known oil and gas wells in siting area (based on satellite imagery and COGCC data 2018). Oil and Gas Tanks/Batteries N/A N/A N/A Within 200 feet - No known oil and gas tank/batteries in siting area (based on satellite imagery and COGCC data 2018). Cultural Resources 2-8 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Table 2-1 Opportunity and Constraint Criteria Preferred Surface Occupancy Controlled Surface Occupancy (Seasonal Restrictions) Limited Surface Occupancy No Surface Occupancy Data Sources Proximity to Known Cultural Sites N/A N/A Within 75 feet of cultural sites. Within 3 miles of i Lindenmeier Site , Cultural sites Buffers derived from. - Colorado OAHP cultural sites dataset (OAHP 2018). Existing Linear Infrastructure Active Railroad Between 300 feet and 1,000 feet of tracks N/A N/A Within 300 feet of ce ' of tracks Buffers derived using. - U.S. National Transportation Atlas Railroads Dataset (Federal Railroad Administration 2012). Other Utilities/Pipelines/Fiber Optic p Parallel and between 200 and 1,000 feet of ROW N/A N/A Parallel and within 20. feet of existing ROW for i' and gas facilities , Buffers derived using - Meadow Springs Ranch utilities easements dataset (2014). State and Federal Highways Parallel and within 1.000 feet of ROW N/A N/A Within ROW 1 Buffers derived using: - USA major roads dataset (ESRI 2010). Existing Electric Transmission Lines Between 75 feet and 1,000 feet N/A N/A N/k __ Buffer derived using: - Transmission base dataset from Roundhouse Renewable Energy (2018, last updated). - Digitized linear transmission features using multiple imagery sources (ESRI World Imagery, USDA 2017- NAIP Imagery, Google Imagery -2018). ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study t�s 1 t I Cheyenne — ,— PROUECT i LOCATION •R iM E1R 'oncan,i �RMM D r r e an. CO 1*Y1 Vv E , 0 I, a ifiaAl } •D•111 �— i 0 Existing Substation Existing 230kV Transmission Existing 345kV Transmss;on Old US Highway 87 Railroad Siting Area Water Body In No Surface Occupancy ,emoted Surface Occupancy Controlled Surface Occupancy Preferred Surface Occupancy ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT Opportunities and Constraints Roundhouse Renewable Energy Figure 3 Opportunities and Constraints 2-10 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Figure 4 Preliminary Alternative Corridors 2-1 1 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Some key siting guidelines were applied to the route evaluation, including the following: • Minimize habitat fragmentation by collocating with existing disturbances to the extent possible: • Avoid impacts to cultural sites: • Avoid and minimize impacts on wetlands. waterbodies. and other sensitive habitats: • Avoid and minimize impacts to sensitive wildlife species and habitats. including unfragmented grassland habitat: • Avoid impacts to existing infrastructure. paralleling visible features to the maximum extent feasible: • Minimize proximity to residences: and • Minimize the length and number of angle structures. which not only increase Project costs but also result in increased land use impacts and increased visual effects due to taller and/or bulkier structures and higher visibility Ultimately. three viable alternatives were carried forward for further evaluation and comparison. Step 6: Gather Agency, Landowner, and Public Input A comparative analysis of the alternative transmission line routes resulted in selection of a preliminary preferred alternative. which will be refined to respond to agency. landowner. and public input, as appropriate. The preliminary preferred route and two alternatives were presented at a public meeting on August 15 for the following purposes • To explain the benefits of the Project: • To share the 1041 permit and easement process and allow the public to comment on the Project ahead of submittal of the applications to Larimer and Weld counties: • To provide the public with information on the proposed route alignment and alternatives considered. and refine transmission route alternatives through community comments. • To allow the public to comment on the overall project: and • To gather feedback on the decisions the City Council must make. Summary of Discussion A total of 54 community members signed in at the open house. Attendees viewed Project information materials and maps. A total of 34 comment forms were received at the open house. and comment forms/letters were mailed to the City of Fort Collins after the open house. Ongoing coordination with agencies and the City of Fort Collins also informs the refinement of the preferred alternative. Representatives from RHRE. the City of Fort Collins. Platte River. and Logan Simpson were available to answer questions at the open house. The primary comments raised include: • Interest in the NextEra and Enyo Renewable Energy partnership: 2-12 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study • Interest in the factors that influenced the decision to establish the preferred alternative: • Renewable energy benefits from the proposed project, especially the magnitude of the benefit (equivalent to the annual energy needs of approximately 70.500 homes): • Appreciation of the Energy by Design -like methodology in developing and evaluating potential corridors: • Concerns about the protection of biological resources during project implementation: • Preference to locate the transmission line and substations on public land to reduce private property impacts: • General agreement on the preliminary preferred corridor. Interest in why Interstate 25 corridors were not selected as a preferred corridor. • Concerns about negative impacts to property values from overhead high -voltage transmission lines: • Concerns about visual impacts from the transmission line: • Concerns about transmission lines and structures in proximity to residences: All attendees were encouraged to send additional comments to RHRE by email or on the provided hard -copy comment forms. Additional comments will be captured in a summary spreadsheet and addressed accordingly. RHRE representatives are available to make in -person visits to concerned landowners at their properties. Several contacts and appointments were made to follow up with individuals. The Weld and Larimer County 1041 Permit application processes require notification of landowners within 500 feet of the property boundary or corridor under development review for public hearings. RHRE expanded upon this requirement and notified landowners within 0.5 mile of the alternative corridors about the meetings via a direct mailed flyer. The meeting was also publicized via a newspaper advertisement in the Fort Collins Coloradoan. the Greeley Tribuneand via at least three Project and partner websites: http://roundhouse-renewable.com/, https://www.prpa.org/roundhouse-renewable-energy/. and https://www.fcgov.com/roundhouse- renewable. In addition. a number of interested individuals and entities. including local governments, were contacted directly by RHRE by email and phone prior to the meetings_ Step 7: Collect Additional Data and Refine Transmission Line Route Once the preliminary alternative routes were developed. additional information was collected through field visits. review of aerial imagery. and agency. landowner. and public input. This information was then used to refine the route alternatives, resulting in the adjustment of alignments where practical. and in some cases elimination of segments when a conflict couldn't be adequately mitigated. Figure 6 provides an overview of the route alternatives. More detailed mapping of the transmission line route alternatives carried forward for detailed analysis is presented in Chapter 4. Step 8: Rank and Document Results A systematic and thorough analysis of alternatives was conducted to highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each alternative alignment. The results of this analysis are documented in 2-13 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Chapter 4. A preferred route and two feasible alternatives have been selected to carry forward in permit and easement applications and other required approvals. Based on best siting practices. existing policy framework and guidance. agency and landowner requirements. a set of evaluation criteria was developed The evaluation criteria are discussed further in Chapter 3 in the following categories: • Vegetation and Surface Water: • Wildlife: • Birds — Raptor; • Birds — Non -raptor: • Visual Resources: • Land Uses: • Cultural Resources: • Engineering Factors: and • Existing Linear Infrastructure. 2-14 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study 3.0 Overview of the Project Siting Area Resources and Criteria Section 2.3 presents data sources and collection methods. Data collected during this step were initially used to inform the route development process. As described in Chapter 2, the data were then used to evaluate each of the route alternatives. Figures 7-9 present the alternative routes and their relationship to evaluation criteria. Chapter 3 presents an overview of the criteria present in the siting area. In 2013, The Nature Conservancy in conjunction with the City of Fort Collins. Colorado Natural Heritage Program. Colorado State Land Board. and Larimer County. completed the Mountains to Plains Energy by Design Report. This report covered 60.000 acres in northeastern Colorado. including the siting area. The Energy by Design Report provides a comprehensive inventory and evaluation of priority biological. cultural. scenic. and recreational resource values. The report is incorporated in this Siting Study by reference. Since the report is five years old, every attempt was made to acquire updated wildlife occurrence data. particularly for black -tailed prairie dog colonies and raptor nests. This acquisition included field reconnaissance site visits and coordination with CPW and the City of Fort Collins. Vegetation and Surface Water The siting area is predominately mixed grass prairie. Little surface water is present and most streams and wetlands shown on Figure 7 are ephemeral. Lone Tree Creek is a perennial stream in the vicinity of the Project area and riparian vegetation exists, primarily in the northern portion of the siting area. The Energy by Design Report presents vegetation and surface water features in the siting area in greater detail and is incorporated by reference. The siting area is in the mixed grass prairie ecosystem of northern Colorado. It is characterized by rolling grasslands with numerous swales. small drainages. bluffs. and buttes. Elevations range from 5.600 to 6.000 feet. Much of the grassland is dominated by blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis) and western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii) with some needle and thread grass (Stipa comota). Large trees in the area are typically associated with human habitation, located along roads. near homes and farms. and near wet areas. Large tree species naturally growing in the siting area are primarily plains cottonwood (Populus deltoides) and narrowleaf cottonwood (Populus angustifolia). Small bluffs or buttes are often covered with shrublands dominated by mountain mahogany (Cercocarpus montanus) (Kettler et al. 1996). Populations of the Colorado butterfly plant are known to occur in areas adjacent to the siting area. both east and west and one population exists within the southeast corner of the siting area (Nature Conservancy 2013) Table 4-1 presents the evaluation criteria for this species. Although the Colorado butterfly plant was recently delisted by the USFWS (June 7. 2018). ongoing monitoring for the species will be required in accordance with the delisting monitoring plan. If this species is identified during pre -construction surveys. appropriate mitigation measures will be implemented in conjunction with USFWS and the City of Fort Collins. The USFWS National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) dataset identifies five types of wetland/waterbody features within the siting area (Table 3-1). Surface water. riparian areas. wetlands, and floodplains are present throughout the siting area. as shown on Figure 7. These wetland and waterbody 3-1 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study features include perennial, intermittent. and ephemeral streams and drainages, emergent wetlands and riparian areas. and small ponds. In addition to a series of unnamed streams the siting area contains several named streams which include Sand Creek, Spottlewood Creek, Lone Tree Creek, Spring Creek. Rawhide Creek. Coal Creek and Wire Draw. Additionally, a small portion of Graves Creek also traverses the siting area. No large waterbodies are located within the siting area. Table 3-1 Wetland/Waterbody Features in the Siting Area Feature Type Total Area Wetlands 66 acres Ponds 13 acres Ephemeral Streams/Drainages 62 miles Intermittent Streams 13 miles Perennial Streams 17 miles Wildlife A full suite of grassland wildlife species inhabits the siting area. The Energy by Design Report presents comprehensive data and descriptions of wildlife species and habitat in. and adjacent to. the siting area. Species of particular focus include black -footed ferret. black -tailed prairie dog. swift fox, pronghorn. mule deer. northern leopard frog. Iowa darter. and Colorado blue butterfly. There are no known occurrences of the northern leopard frog or Colorado blue butterfly in the siting area. Table 3-2 presents special status species with potential to occur within the siting area. Table 3-2 Special Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Siting Area Common Name Scientific Name Federal Status' State Status' Birds Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus BGEPA, MBTA SGCN Tier 2 (resident) Burrowing owl Athene cunicularia MBTA Threatened (migrant) Ferruginous hawk Buteo regalis MBTA SGCN Tier 2 (resident) Golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos BGEPA, MBTA SGCN Tier I (resident) Greater sandhill crane Grus canadensis tabida MBTA SGCN Tier 1(migrant) Mountain plover Charadrius montanus MBTA SGCN Tier 1(migrant) Mammals Black -tailed prairie dog Cynomys ludovicianus SGCN Tier 2 Black -footed ferret Mustela nigripes EXPN3 Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse Zapus hudsonius preblei Threatened Threatened Swift Fox Vulpes velox SGCN Tier 2 Sources: USFWS 2017b, CPW 2015, Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership 2016 ' Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA); Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) 2Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) 3 Experimental Population, Non -essential 3-2 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Aquatic species documented in Lone Tree Creek and Spottlewood Creek include Iowa darter, northern redbelly dace, brassy minnow and northern leopard frog (CPW 2018). These species are not evaluated specifically in this siting study due to their aquatic habitat requirements. There are no known occurrences of the northern leopard frog in the siting area. The Project will span all wetlands and waterbodies with an appropriate buffer in order to avoid potential impacts to aquatic species. The Colorado blue butterfly has historically been present in the general area. including at Soapstone Prairie Natural Area (Nature Conservancy 2013). There are no known occurrences for this species in the siting area. Avoidance and mitigation measures will be handled on a case -by - case basis if the species is documented during construction. The black -tailed prairie dog is an integral part of prairie ecosystems and many other wildlife species are dependent on prairie dogs and their colonies. These include common species (e.g.. rattlesnakes. badgers. weasels. and raptors) and special status species (black -footed ferret. bald and golden eagles. ferruginous hawk. burrowing owl. and mountain plover). Black -tailed prairie dogs are susceptible to a variety of diseases. including sylvatic plague. Colonies can die out from sylvatic plague and require several years to repopulate. The best available data has been used to evaluate black -tailed prairie dog colonies in the siting area. This includes data from the Energy by Design Report and the City of Fort Collins. A total of thirty-six black -tailed prairie dog colonies have been recorded between the years 2007 and 2017 within the siting area As of the year 2017. thirteen of the thirty-six black -tailed prairie dog colonies are active. Four of these currently active colonies are within a City of Fort Collins designated management or conservation zone. Windshield site reconnaissance surveys in June 2018 failed to confirm activity at five of the seven mapped colonies. but identified a new colony that was not previously delineated. Comprehensive surveys for black -tailed prairie dog colonies will be conducted prior to construction and CPW and the City of Fort Collins will be consulted for avoidance recommendations. The siting area is within the overall range for swift fox. The species inhabits shortgrass prairie, particularly on the Pawnee National Grassland east of the siting area (CPW 2017). however den sites occur within the siting area. If present, swift fox could be temporarily displaced during construction of the transmission line As with other terrestrial mammal species in the area. impacts to swift fox are expected to be minimal and primarily consist of temporary disturbance from construction activities. If a swift fox den is encountered during construction. the CPW and the City of Fort Collins will be consulted for avoidance recommendations. Black -footed ferrets are bred in a captive breeding facility that is partially within the siting area. Since 2014. several reintroductions of ferrets have occurred in the black -tailed prairie dog colonies at Meadow Springs Ranch and Soapstone Prairie Natural Area. The City of Fort Collins has a Safe Harbor Agreement in place to guide management and protection of the black -footed ferret (USFWS 2015). All mapped black -tailed prairie dog colonies in the siting area are considered potential black -footed ferret habitat_ There are two colonies within the siting area where black - footed ferrets have been observed as of 2017 (colonies MSR 13 and MSR 2). All six alternative routes are concurrent around black -tailed prairie dog colony MSR 13 in the southern portion of the siting area therefore the presence of black -footed ferrets is not a differentiating criterion between alternatives at this location. However. only routes 5A and 5B occur within black -tailed prairie dog colony MSR 2. which differentiates them from all other siting route alternatives. 3-3 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Pronghorn are common in the siting area and mule deer are also present in suitable habitat. The siting area encompasses sensitive winter habitat for both species and this criteria is included in route alternative evaluation. Preble's meadow jumping mouse has been documented historically in the siting area. Suitable habitat for this species exists in wet meadows, particularly along Lone Tree Creek. This type of habitat is very limited in the siting area. No critical habitat has been designated in the siting area and no occurrence information exists to indicate that this species is currently present in the siting area. The Project would span any wetland and waterbody features by an appropriate distance and no impacts to this species are anticipated. Birds - Raptor Raptor and other migratory bird nesting, foraging, migration, and winter habitat is present throughout the siting area. Raptor species with potential to occur in the siting area include both resident and migrant species. Raptor species observed during two reconnaissance surveys on June 7 and 13, 2018 include red-tailed hawk, burrowing owl, northern harrier, and ferruginous hawk. Table 3-3 presents raptor species with potential to occur in the siting area. Table 3-3 Raptor Species with Potential to Occur in the Siting Study Area Common Name Scientific Name Nesting Habitat Season of Occurrence American kestrel Falco sparverius Cavities in trees and human -made structures Resident Barn owl Tyto alba Variety of habitats including old buildings and burrows in walls of dry washes Resident Burrowing owl Athene cunicularia Mammalian burrows Breeding season Cooper's hawk Accipiter cooperi Stick nest in trees Resident Eastern screech -owl Megascops asio Tree cavities Breeding season Ferruginous hawk Buteo rega/is Stick nest in trees, on rock outcrops Resident Great horned owl Bubo virginianus Variety of habitats including trees and on human -made structures Resident Long-eared owl Asio otus Edge habitat in tree stands or dense shrubs Resident Northern harrier Circus cyaneus Ground nest in grassland and agricultural land Resident Red-tailed hawk Buteo jamaicensis Stick nest in trees Resident Rough -legged hawk Buteo lagopus Breeds elsewhere Winter Short -eared owl Asio flammeus Nests on the ground in grassland and agricultural land Resident Swainson's hawk Buteo swainsoni Nests in trees in grassland and agricultural land Breeding season 3-4 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study One metric commonly used to evaluate raptor habitat and occurrence is the number and location of documented nests. The best available raptor nest data has been incorporated in this analysis using data from the City of Fort Collins. the Energy by Design Report. CPW. and another consultant. A total of twenty-two raptor nests are documented in the siting area between 2010 and 2018. However. seventeen of these nests were reported as inactive or destroyed over the corresponding time period. Raptor nests are accorded protections in the form of distance and timing stipulations. For this Project. the guidelines set forth in the 2008 Colorado Division of Wildlife Recommended Buffer Zones and Seasonal Restrictions for Colorado Raptors will be implemented. Distance stipulations are commonly referred to as buffers. Nests within the siting area that cannot be associated with a particular species are provided a 0.25 mile buffer for the analysis. This distance buffer is commonly applied to buteo species. which are the most likely type of raptor to use this type of nest and habitat. It is common for raptor nests to be used by different species. including common ravens. in different years. Raptors are known to use nests for multiple years. The species using a particular nest may vary annually. For example. most owls do not construct their own nests: they use previously constructed nests or burrows. Prior to construction, Roundhouse will conduct surveys for migratory birds and nests, including raptors. If any nests are found. appropriate construction timing limitations or distance buffers will be enforced according to the City. CPW and USFWS recommendations. Where timing limitations or setbacks cannot be applied due to timing constraints. other alternative mitigation measures would be considered and vetted with the City. CPW and USFWS. If any federally -listed species are found, Roundhouse will consult with the USFWS regarding avoidance and mitigation. To preclude avian electrocutions and minimize collision risk. Roundhouse would incorporate Avian Protection Plan (APP) standards developed by the Avian Power Line Interaction Committee (APLIC 2012) and the APP guidelines (APLIC and USFWS 2005) to protect birds on power lines. as well as NESC specified electric conductor clearances. Although bald and golden eagles are not listed under the Endangered Species Act, they have federal protections under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA) and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). In northeastern Colorado. bald eagles typically nest in mature trees in riparian areas (Wickersham 2016). In winter, bald eagles often congregate in riparian areas near open water. which are called winter roost or concentration areas. Pre -construction surveys will be conducted to identify any winter concentration areas and appropriate timing or distance restrictions would be implemented to avoid impacts to the species. Winter roost areas also are protected from disturbance_ No winter roost areas are documented in the siting area. Golden eagles typically nest on cliffs. in large trees. and sometimes on large transmission towers (Wickersham 2016). No golden eagle nests are documented within or near the siting area. One adult golden eagle was observed foraging during June 2018 surveys. The burrowing owl is a state -threatened species that is known to occur and nest in the siting area. In northeastern Colorado. burrowing owls are typically associated with black -tailed prairie dog colonies. Burrowing owls can excavate their own burrows. but they usually depend on burrows that have been started by colonially burrowing mammals. especially ground squirrels and prairie dogs (Jones 2016). A total of 17 burrowing owl nests are documented in black -tailed prairie dog colonies in the siting area. 3-5 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study The ferruginous hawk is a Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) in Colorado and is protected under the MBTA. The species is considered a year-round resident in Colorado and is common in winter on the eastern plains in open grasslands and shrub steppe communities. Ferruginous hawks nest in a variety of open terrain on cliffs or rock outcrops or isolated trees in grasslands (Keeley 2016). Three ferruginous hawk nests are documented within the siting area. Birds - Non -raptor The habitats present in the siting area support a diversity of non -raptor bird species, both migratory and resident. A total of 18 non -raptor species were observed in June 2018, during site reconnaissance surveys. These species are presented in Table 3-4. Also presented in this table are three grassland bird species of special focus that were not observed during the reconnaissance surveys but documented within the siting area by the City. mountain plover, chestnut -collared longspur, and McCown's longspur. As a guild, grassland bird species are declining in numbers at an alarming rate (source). One-third of all North American grassland bird species are on the Watch List due to steeply declining populations and threats to habitat (NABCI 2016). Table 3-4 Non -Raptor Species with Potential to Occur in the Siting Area Common Name Scientific Name Nesting Habitat Season of Occurrence Barn swallow Hirundo rustica Mud nest on human -made structures Breeding season Brown thrasher Toxostoma rufum Twig nest in trees and shrubs This bird was observed using a large nest box on the back of a traffic sign. Breeding season Chestnut -collared longspur Calcarius omatus Ground nest in grassland Breeding season Cliff swallow Petrochelidon Mud nest on cliffs, banks, and man- made structures Breeding season pyrrhonota Common raven Corvus corax Large stick nest on a variety of structures, including cliffs, trees, and transmission structures Resident Grasshopper sparrow Ammodramus savannarum Ground nest in grassland Breeding season Horned lark Eremophila alpestris Ground nest in grassland and agricultural land Resident Killdeer Charadrius vociferus Ground nest in variety of habitats Breeding season Lark bunting Calamospiza melanocorys Ground nest in grassland Breeding season Lark sparrow Chondestes grammacus Ground nest in variety of habitats Breeding season McCown's longspur Rhynchophanes mccownii Ground nest in grassland Breeding season 3-6 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Table 3-4 Non -Raptor Species with Potential to Occur in the Siting Area Common Name Scientific Name Nesting Habitat Season of Occurrence Mountain plover Charadrius montanus Ground nest Breeding season Mourning dove Zenaida macroura Twig nest in trees and shrubs Resident Northern mockingbird Mimus polyglottos Twig nest in trees and shrubs Breeding season Red -winged blackbird Agelaius phoeniceus Wetland and cattail habitat Resident Rock dove Columba livia Nest on rock or human -made ledge Resident Say's phoebe Sayornis saya Nest on natural or human -made ledges with shelter over them Breeding season Turkey vulture Cathartes aura Nest in dark recesses in a variety of substrates. including cliffs Breeding season Vesper sparrow Pooecetes gramineUS Ground nest in grassland Breeding season Western kingbird Tyrannus verticalis Trees in a variety of habitat types Breeding season Western meadowlark Sturnella neglecta Shrubs in grassland and agricultural land Resident Sources Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership 2016 Birds of North America online 2017 Four grassland bird species were identified for special focus in the Energy by Design Report: chestnut -collared longspur. lark bunting, McCown's longspur, and mountain plover. The following habitats were digitized from the report and used for this analysis: • Chestnut -collared longspur breeding areas. • Lark bunting core areas: • McCown's longspur breeding areas: • Mountain plover staging areas: and • Mountain plover nest/repeat detection areas. No mountain plover breeding areas are documented in the siting area. Lark bunting core areas and McCown's and chestnut -collared longspur breeding areas are partially within the siting area and are used as evaluation criteria. The greater sandhill crane is a SGCN in Colorado and is protected under the MBTA. The species is considered a migrant through Weld and Larimer Counties. No sandhill crane nests were reported in the siting area in the Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas (Ortega 2016). 3-7 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Visual Resources The term visual resources- refers to the composite of basic terrain, geologic. and hydrologic features. vegetative patterns. and built features that influence the visual appeal of a landscape. The siting area is located in the mixed grass prairie ecosystem of northern Colorado_ It is characterized by rolling grasslands with numerous swales, small drainages. bluffs. and buttes. Visual impacts from the Project could result from the presence of tall structures and conductors on the relatively flat and open landscape The proposed transmission line would primarily be visible to humans from residences. roads. trails. and prominent landforms. Thus. it is desirable to make the transmission line less visible to humans and to make the conductors more visible to birds. The following criteria were used to evaluate potential routes: • Distance of the transmission line route through a 0 to 1.5 mile viewshed from recreational trails. • Distance of the transmission line route through a 1.5 to 3.5 mile viewshed from recreational trails • Distance of the transmission line route through a 0 to 0.5 mile viewshed from 1-25. and • Distance of the transmission line route crossing prominent landforms. Additionally APLIC guidelines would be followed to minimize collision risk for birds, in cooperation with the USFWS. CPW, and City of Fort Collins Land Uses A variety of commercial, residential and special land uses occur in the siting area. The siting area is predominately owned by the City of Fort Collins. Meadow Springs Ranch is owned by the City of Fort Collins Wastewater Utility and is used for regulatory compliant biosolids application. livestock grazing. and conservation of natural and cultural resource values. There are no conservation easements within the siting area. Other land uses within the siting area include a scattering of rural and residences and secondary agricultural buildings Thus. a key siting goal was to minimize proximity to private residences. primarily to minimize visual impacts. The following land use criteria were used to evaluate potential routes: • Number of residences within 200 feet of the potential centerline: • Number of residences within 0.25 mile of the potential centerline: • Number of secondary agricultural/industrial buildings within 100 feet of the potential centerline: • Number of communication facilities/towers within 200 feet of the potential centerline: • Number of properties owned by various landowners crossed by a potential centerline. including the City of Fort Collins: and • The Owl Canyon Gliderport airstrip is 3 miles south of the siting area. 3-8 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Cultural Resources Cultural resources are defined as specific locations of human activity. occupation, or traditional use identifiable through field inventory. historical documentation. or oral evidence. The term includes archaeological. historic, and architectural sites and structures, as well as places with traditional cultural or religious importance within a social or cultural group. Information on cultural resources was gathered using the Colorado State Historic Preservation Office cultural sites dataset (SHPO 2018). Most of the siting area has not been surveyed for cultural sites. However. the Energy by Design report identified two open camps. one farming/ranching site, one historic road (old U.S. Hwy 87). and three sites associated with the railroad within the proposed siting area. Additionally. the Lindenmeier Archaeological Site. a National Historic Landmark, is located near the siting area on Soapstone Prairie Natural Area. Cultural artifacts have been documented throughout the general area and Class III cultural surveys will be conducted prior to construction. Proximity to known cultural sites within 75 feet of the potential centerline was used as an evaluation criterion. Engineering Factors The length and design of the transmission line are integral factors that influence visual resources, wildlife habitat. and Project feasibility. The following engineering criteria were used to evaluate potential routes: • Total length (miles): • Total number of angle structures greater than 45 degrees: • Number of Federal Highway crossings (1-25): • Number of other transmission line crossings: and • Number of active railroad crossings. Existing Linear Infrastructure Colocation with existing linear infrastructure is a key goal for siting the transmission line. Colocation is preferable because it minimizes the amount of habitat fragmentation and visual impacts from multiple disturbances on the landscape. The following criteria were used to evaluate potential routes: • Distance of parallel route in miles adjacent to an existing linear feature (railroad tracks. existing pipeline ROW/corridor. old U.S. Hwy 87, CR 5,1-25. or existing native surface roads). • Distance of parallel route in miles that can be accessed by old U.S. Hwy 87. CR 5. I- 25 Frontage Road. or existing native surface roads. 3-9 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study 4.0 Development and Evaluation of Alternative Transmission Routes As described in Chapter 2. the siting study process is comprised of the following steps: • Step 1: Develop utility engineering requirements and establish the siting area: • Step 2: Analyze existing policy framework and guidance: • Step 3: Collect relevant land use and environmental data: • Step 4: Develop opportunity and constraint criteria: • Step 5: Define preliminary alternative transmission line routes: • Step 6: Gather agency. landowner. and public input: • Step 7: Collect additional data and refine transmission line route: and • Step 8: Rank and document results. A variety of route segments were considered in the alternative development step (Step 5). After consideration of the evaluation criteria and key siting guidelines. one preferred alternative and two alternate routes were carried forward for further analysis and public input. The evaluation criteria and results of the ranking of alternative transmission line routes are presented in this chapter. Evaluation Criteria The resources discussed in Chapter 3 were used to highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each route alternative. The evaluation criteria were organized around their social, economic and environmental impacts (the triple bottom line) Rather than make decisions on the basis of lowest cost (the economic bottom line). three bottom lines (social. economic. and environmental) are considered_ The triple bottom line approach meant creating an optimal mix of environmental resource efficiency. cost effectiveness and human wellbeing in Project construction and operations. The evaluation criteria categories are shown in Figure 5 and defined further in Table 4-1 Figure 6 and Table 4-2 present the route evaluation results. It should be noted that the evaluation criteria represent a basis for comparing potential impacts across alternatives Note also that only the portion of the transmission line located in Colorado was evaluated in the results presented in Table 4-2 For ease of interpretation. the analysis results shown in the table are color coded to highlight the lowest. moderate (mid -range), and highest scores for each alternative relative to each of the evaluation criteria. The color coded rankings are generalized and reflect an approximate grouping that does not change the underlying numeric results. Actual impacts from construction and operation of the Project would be reduced through application of standard environmental protection measures and Best Management Practices 4-1 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Environmental Vegetation and Surface Water; Wildlife; (incl. avian Social Visual Resources; Land Uses; Cultural Resources; Economic Engineering Factors Existing linear Infrastructure Figure 5 Triple Bottom Line Evaluation Categories Table 4-1 Triple Bottom Line Evaluation Category Criteria Category Transmission Line Route Evaluation Criteria Environmental Vegetation and Surface Water Number of transmission structures located within a 100 -foot buffer of the high water mark of perennial and ephemeral creeks and streams, seeps, springs, and wetlands. Number of transmission structures located within a 100 -foot buffer of identified riparian vegetation communities. Number of crossings over/through identified riparian vegetation communities. Number of transmission structures located within a 300 -foot buffer of Colorado butterfly plant mapped occurrences. Wildlife Length of route in feet within mapped black -tailed prairie dog colonies (corresponds to suitable black -footed ferret, burrowing owl, and mountain plover habitat). Length of route in feet within active black -tailed prairie dog colonies that occur within a designated prairie dog management or conservation zone. Length of route in feet within black -tailed prairie dog colonies that were active as of 2017. Routes within 1,000 feet of National Black -footed Ferret Conservation Center Number of known swift fox den sites within 0.25 mile of the potential centerline 4-2 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Table 4-1 Triple Bottom Line Evaluation Category Criteria Category Transmission Line Route Evaluation Criteria Acres of route (with a 150 foot buffer) that occur within pronghorn winter concentration areas Length of route in feet that occur within Mule Deer Winter Concentration Areas. Length of route in feet that occur within Mule Deer Severe Winter Range. Birds - Raptor Length of route in feet within 0.25 mile of known raptor nests Birds — Non -raptor Length of route in feet within 300 feet of chestnut -collared longspur breeding area. Length of route in feet within 450 feet of lark bunting core areas. Length of route in feet within 450 feet of McCown's longspur core areas. Number of mountain plover staging areas and/or nest/repeat detection buffers crossed by the potential centerline. Social Visual Resources Distance (miles) of transmission line route through a 0 to 1.5 mile viewshed from recreational trails. Distance (miles) of transmission line route through a 1.5 to 3.5 mile viewshed from recreational trails. Distance (miles) of transmission line route through a 0 to 0.5 mile viewshed from 1-25. Land Uses Number of residences within 200 feet of potential centerline. Number of residences within 0.25 mile of potential centerline. Number of secondary agricultural/industrial buildings within 100 feet of potential centerline. Number of communication facilities/towers within 200 feet of potential centerline. Number of properties owned by various landowners crossed by a potential centerline (including the City of Fort Collins). Cultural Resources Number of cultural sites within 75 feet of potential centerline. Economic Engineering Total Length (miles) Total number of angle structures greater than 45 degrees. Number of Federal Highway crossings (1-25). Number of other transmission line crossings. Number of active railroad crossings. Existing Linear Infrastructure Distance of parallel route in miles adjacent to an existing linear feature (railroad tracks, existing pipeline ROW/corridor, old U.S. Hwy 87, CR 5, 1-25, or existing native surface roads). Distance of parallel route in miles that can be accessed by old U.S. Highway 87, CR 5, 1-25 Frontage Road, or existing native surface roads. 4-3 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study r i k I 1 I Route 28 2C 38 4 SA 58 1 PROJECT LOCATION Canty Boundary Old US Highway 87 vocal Roads �— Railroad Stream Existing 230kV Transmission Existing 345kV Transmission O Existing Substation Utter Body Meadow Sprigs Rand' use' Cty of Fort Collins Natural Area Roundhouse Lease Area RPA Owned Property 1 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT Project Alternatives Roundhouse Renewable Energy I. x,..-4 :... Figure 6 Route Alternatives 4-4 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Table 4-2 Alternative Route Comparison Siting Criteria 2B 2C 3B 4 5A 5B Alternative colors shown on maps (Preferred) Yellow Blue Purple Orange Green Red Vegetation and Surface Water Criteria Number of transmission structures located within a 100 -foot buffer of the high water mark of perennial and ephemeral creeks and streams, seeps, springs, and wetlands. Number of transmission structures located within a 100 -foot buffer of identified riparian vegetation communities. 1 Number of crossings over/through identified riparian vegetation communities. 4 4 Number of transmission structures located within a 300 -foot buffer of Colorado butterfly plant mapped occurrences. Total Number of Lowest Score 4 4 3 2 1 1 Wildlife Criteria Length of route (in feet) within mapped black -tailed prairie dog colonies (corresponds to suitable black -footed ferret, western burrowing owl, and mountain plover habitat). 1,037_ 1,129 2,478 1,129 Length of route (in feet) within active black -tailed prairie dog colonies that occur within a designated prairie dog management or conservation zone. 0 0. Length of route (in feet) within black -tailed prairie dog colonies that were active as of 2017. 863 863 863 Routes within 1,000 feet of the National Black -Footed Ferret Conservation Center. Number of known swift fox den sites within 0.25 mile of the potential centerline. Length of route (in feet) within pronghorn winter concentration areas. 70,409 68,984 69,031 73,492 74,871 Length of route (in feet) within mule deer winter concentration areas. _ _ -. 24,496 4-5 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Table 4-2 Alternative Route Comparison Siting Criteria 2B 2C 3B 4 5A 5B Alternative colors shown on maps (Preferred) Yellow Blue Purple Orange Green Red Length of route (in feet) within mule deer severe winter range. 24,626 25,427 24,40E 32 077 Total Number of Lowest Score 7 5 4 3 1 1 Birds - Raptor Criteria Length of route (in feet) within 0.25 mile of known raptor nests. 2,582 2,498 5,341 - 5,09b 1,149 Total Number of Lowest Score 0 0 0 0 0 1 Birds — Non -raptor Criteria Length of route (in feet) within 300 feet of chestnut -collared longspur breeding areas. . 0 0 Length of route (in feet) within 450 feet of lark bunting core areas. 11,782 11,334 7,242 4,709 - 4,709 j Length of route (in feet) within 450 feet of McCown's longspur core areas. 17,757 13,562 13,562 Number of mountain plover staging areas and/or nest/repeat detection buffers crossed by the potential center line. Total Number of Lowest Score 3 3 2 2 2 2 Visual Resources Criteria Distance (in miles) of the transmission line route through a 0 to 1.5 mile viewshed from recreational trails. Distance (in miles) of the transmission line route through a 1.5 to 3.5 mile viewshed from recreational trails. Distance (in miles) of the transmission line route through a 0 to 0.5 mile viewshed from 1-25. 1.12 2.09 8.23 Distance (in miles) of transmission line route crossing prominent landforms within siting area. 0.55 Total Number of Lowest Score 4 3 3 3 2 2 4-6 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Table 4-2 Alternative Route Comparison Siting Criteria 2B 2C 3B 4 5A 5B Alternative colors shown on maps (Preferred) Yellow Blue Purple Orange Green Red Land Use Criteria Number of residences within 200 feet of potential center line. Number of residences within 0.25 mile of potential center line. 3 3 Number of secondary agricultural/industrial buildings within 100 feet of potential centerline. Number of communication facilities/towers within 200 feet of potential centerline. Number of properties owned by various landowners crossed by a potential centerline (including the City of Fort Collins). 6 6 Total Number of Lowest Score 4 4 2 4 2 3 Cultural Resources Criteria Number of cultural sites within 75 feet of potential center4 line. - 4 5 3 Total Number of Lowest Score 1 0 0 0 0 0 Engineering Criteria Total Project Length - Colorado and Wyoming (miles) 20.3 20.3 21.1 21.4 21.7 Total Length in Colorado (miles) 13.3 3 13.1 i 13.9 14.2 14.5 Total number of angle structures greater than 45 degrees. 4 4 4 4 Number of Federal Highway crossings (1-25). 0 0 0 7 2. Number of other transmission line crossings. 0 0 0 0 0 Number of active railroad crossings. Total Number of Lowest Score 5 3 4 3 2 4 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Table 4-2 Alternative Route Comparison Siting Criteria 2B 2C 38 4 5A 5B Alternative colors shown on maps (Preferred) Yellow Blue Purple Orange Green Red Linear Infrastructure Criteria (Higher Value = Best) Distance of parallel route (in miles) adjacent to an existing linear feature (railroad tracks, existing pipeline ROW/corridor, old U.S. Hwy 87, CR 5, 1-25, or existing native surface roads). 12.5 12.6 Distance of parallel route (in miles) that can be accessed by old U.S. Hwy 87: CR 5,1-25 Frontage Road, or existing native surface roads. 6.1 3.4 5.7 Total Number of Lowest (Highest) Scores 1 0 1 1 1 0 Grand Total Number of Lowest (Highest) Scores 29 22 19 18 11 11 owest Effect Moderate Effect' ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study 4.1.1 Vegetation and Surface Water Impacts to vegetation can reduce foraging habitat for wildlife and livestock from direct disturbance as well as indirectly from increases in noxious weeds. However. the potential for the introduction and/or spread of noxious weeds will be minimized by implementing Best Management Practices (BMPs) such as ensuring construction equipment is cleaned, using weed free seed mixes and controlling noxious weeds within the ROW. The potential for the introduction and/or spread of invasive non-native species (including noxious weeds) will be minimized by the implementation of BMPs during the construction period and reclamation efforts. 4.1.2 Wildlife The majority of impacts to wildlife will. be localized and short-term. related to the removal of vegetation. compaction of soils. noise disturbance. and human presence associated with construction activities. Direct impacts to wildlife during construction will be minimal. Adhering to BMP's designed to protect wildlife during construction (speed limits for example) will help ensure direct impacts are minimal. Most wildlife will be avoided through timing stipulations or will be able to disperse into adjacent habitat. The Project will incrementally increase habitat fragmentation in the area. To minimize this affect. a key goal in siting the Project is to collocate with existing linear disturbance. Impacts to wildlife during maintenance activities will be minimal due to the selection and type of durable materials used for construction of the transmission line. Most of the maintenance monitoring will be performed through aerial observations (helicopter. drone. etc.) thereby minimizing ground disturbance. 4.1.3 Birds - Raptor Raptor breeding. foraging. migration. and winter habitat is present throughout the siting area (Chapter 3). Raptor nest data are used as criteria to evaluate alternatives (Table 4-1). Pre - construction nest surveys will identify raptor nests in the siting area. Appropriate timing and distance buffers will be applied in coordination with the City. CPW and USFWS. 4.1.4 Birds - Non -raptor The siting area encompasses habitat for a diversity of grassland obligate and other avian species. Species of particular concern include lark bunting. chestnut -collared longspur. McCown's longspur. and mountain plover. Habitat data for these species was used as route evaluation criteria (Table 4-1). Pre -construction nest surveys will be used to identify migratory bird nests. Appropriate timing and distance buffers will be applied in coordination with the City. CPW and USFWS. 4.1.5 Visual Resources Potential visual impacts from the Project are a concern voiced by the public Visual impacts from the Project would result from the addition of approximately 13 miles of large transmission structures and conductors on a relatively flat and open landscape. Transmission structures can be seen for more than one mile. Many other transmission lines also exist at the north and south of the siting area. Intestate 25. the old U.S. Hwy 87. and an active railroad run north -south throughout the project area. Individual residences are scattered throughout the southern portion of the siting area_ The Project would add to these cumulative visual impacts. 4-9 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study The siting criteria below have been developed in part to minimize visual impacts from the Project. Visual concerns are accounted for in several criteria. such as: • Number of residences within 200 feet of the potential centerline and within 0.25 mile of the Project: • The number of cultural sites within 75 feet of the potential centerline: • Visibility of the Project from residences. recreational trails. 1-25. and prominent landforms: • Number of angle structures greater than 45 degrees (angle structures are typically bulkier than other structures and result in both greater visual impacts and higher construction costs). • Number of Federal highway crossings: and • The total length. as the above visual impacts generally increase proportionally as length increases. 4.1.6 Land Uses Criteria used to evaluate potential impacts on land uses include the number of residences within 200 feet of the potential centerline and within 0.25 mile of the Project: the number of secondary agricultural/industrial buildings within 100 feet of the potential centerlines. the number of communication facilities/towers within 200 feet of the potential centerlines: and land ownership (Table 4-1). 4.1.7 Cultural Resources Known cultural sites were included as evaluation criteria in Table 4-1 These sites are primarily associated with the railroad The old U.S. Hwy 87 is also recorded as a historic feature. Most of the siting area has not been surveyed for cultural resources. A Class III cultural resources survey will be conducted on the potential easement on Meadow Springs Ranch. Appropriate avoidance and mitigation measures will be implemented for cultural resources on other properties. as necessary. 4.1.8 Engineering Factors Engineering criteria account for the feasibility of construction and operations. compatibility with and crossings of existing linear infrastructure (railroads, pipelines, transmission lines), and cost. Engineering factors relative to the length and design of the transmission line were considered in the route evaluation (Table 4-1). 4.1.9 Existing Linear Infrastructure The distance of the transmission line that parallels the railroad. roads. and other utilities and transmission lines was considered in route evaluation (Table 4-1). For these criteria, a higher value is better than a lower value. This is an indicator of the extent the transmission line is collocated with existing linear infrastructure. Colocation is preferable because it minimizes the amount of habitat fragmentation and visual impacts from multiple disturbances on the landscape. Colocation with existing roads also reduces the miles of new roads necessary to construct and operate the Project. 4-10 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Alternative Transmission Line Route Ranking and Results Six alternatives carried forward for analysis are identified as Route 2B, Route 2C, Route 3B, Route 4. Route 5A. and Route 5B (Figures 7 - 9). Ultimately alternative routes 4. 5A. and 5B near 1-25 were eliminated from consideration because they would have had considerably greater impacts than the other alternatives. Alternatives 2C and 3B enter the siting area from Wyoming at the same point and follow the same route for 0.5 miles. Upon reaching the railroad. these alternative routes diverge and continue south. South of the railroad spur into Rawhide, the three alternative routes converge again and proceed east for 1.5 miles to the Rawhide substation. Results of the analysis are found in Table 4-2. 4-11 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study • • • 1 s rp.MU Or. ••. C • 4 C h yee ne PROJECT \ LOCAnO1N� \r ♦ 4 M c1R r ty Ft?, :aref• ^�NM.1441gve Lido —` �iryio *Et i r- o.�s I- 11� -- en et co RrR A P A Route 18 2C 38 SA sans 4 SArrg Area a E r rsting Substation Old US Highway 87 Railroad ell Water Boer r banal Areas 1100h �lrearns and Wetlands t 100ft butter) CO Butterfly Plant (30011 buffer) —1 Oilier Raptors r 25 mre buffer! N' MountarnPlover staging areas nes!-- and -*peat detections Chestnut Collared Longspur t3C*r Diner) Prairie Dog Colonies Active Conserved or Managed Attic. Prase Dog Colonies Acute Prairie Dog Colonies Years EZA 2004-1017) Lark Bunting r450ft buffer) '!a McCown% Longspur iAS0h butter, Mule Deer Winter Concentration Area Mule Deer Severe Winter Range MEN (—`1 Pronghorn Winter Concentration 74 :46 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT Environmental Comparison Roundhouse Renewable Energy Figure 7 Environmental Route Evaluation Results 4-12 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study I I t ImPsdinias Figure 8 Social Route Evaluation Results Route 28 2C 38 4 5A 58 4.1 a Sting Area Exciting 230kV Transmssr: tr` Existing 345kV Transmssini Old US Hrgnway 87 Local Roads Railroad Water Body • Existing Substation • Residences • Communication Tower- • Agriculture::Storage Burklrgs • industrial Buildings Cultural Sites (75ft buffer) Communication FacthtresiTowerc (200ft buffer) SeoondarvAgilndustnal buddrrgc (100ft buffer) Residences (200ft Duffer, Residences (.25 nnile buffer) Property Boundaries (Based on County Parcel Data) Viewshed from Recreation Trans (1.5 to 3.5 miles) Viewshed from Recreation Traits (0 to 1 5 miles) Vnewsned from I-2510 to &4 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT Social Comparison Roundhouse Renewable Energy 4-13 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Che Yp. __ t- --PROJEG-T+ LOCATION LARIM Eit 77777 Cat Conn%1 k,, �w.f�uowulRl'. Route 2B 2C - 3B 4 SA rgtn i - 5B Siting Area p Existing Substation Existing 230kV Transmission e— Existing 345kV Transmission Old US Highway 87 Local Roads/Existing NatNe Surface Roads — Railroad Vltater Body Rail Lines (100,1 to 80011 buffer Old SH 87/County Road 5/Secondary Access Roads (300ft buffer) Existing Transmission Lines !200ft buffers OS Underground Pipelines ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT Economic Companson Roundhouse Renewable Energy ISMS o.: wart Figure 9 Economic Route Evaluation Results 4-14 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study 4.1.10 Route 2B (Preferred) Route 2B proceeds southeast from the state line. paralleling a pipeline corridor that accommodates seven pipelines for 1.1 miles. until it intersects the alignment of the Burlington Northern Railroad in Weld County. The alignment then proceeds along the west side of the railroad to the Larimer County line. From the Larimer County line, the alignment follows adjacent to the railroad ROW for 4.75 miles before turning due south along CR 5 for 2.5 miles. Shortly after crossing the rail spur line that serves Rawhide. the route turns 90 degrees to the west and continues to the Rawhide Substation. following the alignment of an existing transmission line for most of the remaining distance. This route compares favorably to or equals the other alternative routes in nearly all of the route evaluation criteria (Table 4-2). Vegetation and Surface Water Criteria Route 2B avoids siting within a 100 -foot buffer of perennial and ephemeral surface water features. wetlands. and riparian vegetation communities. It requires one crossing of a riparian area. the lowest of any alternative route except Route 2C. which also has one crossing. Wildlife Criteria Route 2B has the shortest distance through the following wildlife habitats than any of the other routes: • Mapped black -tailed prairie dog colonies. including those that were active in 2017 and areas designated for active management/conservation: • Mule deer winter concentration areas and severe winter range. Birds — Raptor Criteria Route 2B has a lower distance (0.47 mile) through a 0.25 mile buffer around known raptor nests. similar to Route 2C and higher than Route 5B. Birds - Non -raptor Criteria Route 2B does not cross chestnut -collared longspur or mountain plover mapped habitats. Route 2B also has one of the lowest distances through McCown's longspur mapped core areas. Visual Resources Criteria Route 2B has the lowest level of visual impacts from recreational trails or 1-25 than any of the routes. Land Use Criteria Route 2B is not located within 200 feet of any residences and has only one residence located within 0 25 mile. Cultural Resources Criteria Route 2B has the least number of cultural sites within 75 feet of the potential centerline (one). 4-15 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Engineering Criteria Route 2B does not cross 1-25 or other transmission lines and crosses the railroad once. Route 2B is one of the shortest routes (13.3 miles) and has the fewest angles greater than 45 degrees (angle structures are typically bulkier than other structures and result in greater visual impacts). Linear Infrastructure Criteria Route 2B is mid -range compared to the other routes with respect to linear infrastructure criteria. Approximately 13 miles of its total length of 13.3 miles is adjacent to existing linear infrastructure. 4.1.11 Route 2C Route 2C generally parallels the railroad on the east for 6 5 miles with a slight divergence to avoid the Biosolids Facility. The route proceeds south along the railroad until it reaches Section 11.10N 68W where it makes a 90 degree turn to the west and continues to the connection at the Rawhide Substation. following the alignment of an existing transmission line for most of the remaining distance. Vegetation and Surface Water Criteria Route 2C avoids siting within a 100 -foot buffer of perennial and ephemeral surface water features. wetlands. and riparian vegetation communities. Route 2C would involve one crossing over or through an identified riparian/wetland vegetation community. Wildlife Criteria Route 2C has lower impacts on the following wildlife habitats: • Mapped black -tailed prairie dog colonies (slightly more than Route 2B) • Pronghorn winter concentration areas Route 2C has a substantially greater distance through mule deer severe winter range. Birds - Raptor Criteria Similar to Route 2B, Route 2C has a lower distance (0 47 mile) through a 0.25 mile buffer around known raptor nests. Birds — Non -raptor Criteria Route 2C does not cross chestnut -collared longspur or mountain plover mapped habitats. Route 2C also has the lowest distances through McCown's longspur mapped core areas. However. Route 2C has the greatest distance of any route through lark bunting core areas. Visual Resources Criteria Results for Route 2C are similar to those described for Route 2B; however. 1.1 miles are located within 0.5 mile of 1-25. Land Use Criteria None of the routes impact residences within 200 feet of the potential centerline or communication facilities/towers. Route 2C has one residence within 0 25 mile and the same number of properties crossed as Route 2B. 4-16 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Cultural Resources Criteria Route 2C has more cultural sites (three) within 75 feet of the alignment than Route 2B. Engineering Criteria Route 2C crosses an active railroad at two locations. and has the most angles (7) greater than 45 degrees. Linear Infrastructure Criteria Route 2C is mid -range compared to the other routes with respect to linear infrastructure criteria. Approximately 12.5 miles of its total length of 13.1 miles is adjacent to existing linear infrastructure_ Route 2C has the least distance that can be accessed by a local use road system. 4.1.12 Route 3B Route 3B generally parallels the old U.S. Hwy 87 until reaching Section 11 10N 68W. then follows the other routes to the Rawhide Substation. Vegetation and Surface Water Criteria Route 3B avoids siting within a 100 -foot buffer of perennial and ephemeral surface water features. wetlands. and riparian vegetation communities. However. this route would cross more identified riparian/wetland vegetation communities (five) than most of the other routes. Wildlife Criteria Route 3B avoids any effect on mule deer winter concentration areas. Although slightly higher than Alternative 2B. this route would cross a lower amount of black -tailed prairie dog colonies than most of the other alternative routes. In addition. it has a mid -range rating for the following wildlife habitats: • Pronghorn winter concentration areas; and • Mule deer severe winter range Birds — Raptor Criteria Route 3B would have a greater distance through a 0.25 mile buffer around known raptor nests than Alternatives 2B and 2O. Birds — Non -raptor Criteria Route 3B does not cross chestnut -collared Iongspur or mountain plover mapped habitats. Route 2C has a mid -range rating for distances through lark bunting core areas and one of the highest distances through McCown's longspur core areas. Visual Resources Criteria Route 3B would have a higher visibility from 1-25 than Route 2B. Just over two miles would be within 0.5 mile of the highway. 4-17 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Land Use Criteria Route 3B has the highest number of residences within 0.25 mile of the alignment (4). This route also has one of the highest numbers of properties crossed. Cultural Resources Criteria Route 3B has three cultural sites within 75 feet of the alignment. Engineering Criteria Route 3B does not cross 1-25 or other transmission lines. but crosses an active railroad at two locations. It has four angles greater than 45 degrees. Linear Infrastructure Criteria Route 3B is mid -range compared to the other routes with respect to linear infrastructure criteria. Approximately 12.6 miles of its total length of 13.1 miles is adjacent to existing linear infrastructure. Route 3B also has good access from existing surface roads. 4.1.13 Route 4 Route 4 generally parallels the existing 345 kV transmission line for approximately one mile and then turns south and follows along the west side of 1-25 for most of the distance to the Rawhide Substation. At a point near the northeast corner of Section 11. 10N 68W the route makes a 90 degree turn to the west and continues to the connection at the Rawhide Substation, following the alignment of an existing transmission line for a portion of the remaining distance to the substation. Vegetation and Surface Water Criteria Route 4 avoids siting within the 100 -foot buffer of perennial and ephemeral surface water features but would result in one structure located in the 100 -foot buffer of a riparian area. It would also require five crossings over an identified riparian/wetland vegetation community. more than any other alternative route except Route 3B Wildlife Criteria Route 4 is similar to the alternatives previously discussed with respect to distance through mapped black -tailed prairie dog colonies but has a greater distance through pronghorn winter concentration area and a substantially greater distance through mule deer winter concentration area. Birds — Raptor Criteria Route 4 has the greatest distance within 0.25 mile of known raptor nest sites. approximately three times the distance of Route 2B. Birds — Non -raptor Criteria Route 4 has one of the lower distances through lark bunting core area but the highest distance through McCown's longspur core area. Visual Resources Criteria This route would be highly visible from 1-25 in views to the west. More than 11 miles of the route is located within the foreground viewing distance of the highway (0.5 mile). 4-18 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Land Use Criteria Three residences would be located within 0.25 mile of Route 4. one of the higher numbers of the six alternatives considered. Cultural Resources Criteria Route 4 has the highest number (six) of cultural resource sites within 75 feet of the alignment. Engineering Criteria Route 4 is longer than Route 2B (13.9 miles) and would require two railroad crossings as well as five angle turns greater than 45 degrees. Linear Infrastructure Criteria Despite its proximity to 1-25. Route 4 has limited access via existing surface roads — a frontage road does not exist along the west side of 1-25 for most of the distance south of the state line. 4.1.14 Route 5A Route 5A is also parallel to 1-25 for most of its length but crosses over to the east side of the highway and parallels the highway at a distance of 0.25 mile. The 0.25 mile separation is needed in order to avoid being too close to or crossing through several features near the highway. including the Natural Fort site. a residence. a playa lake and an industrial complex just south of the state line. Vegetation and Surface Water Criteria Route 5A has higher level of effect on these criteria. including one structure within the 100 -foot buffer of a drainage and four structures within a riparian area. In addition. Route 5A requires four crossings of riparian areas. Wildlife Criteria Route 5A has the greatest distance through mapped black -tailed prairie dog colonies (2.4 miles). a substantially higher distance than Route 2B and the other routes previously discussed. In addition. the route is located in proximity to the National Black -Footed Ferret Conservation Center and has greater distances through pronghorn and mule deer winter habitat. Birds - Raptor Criteria Compared to the other alternative routes. Route 5A has one of the higher distances (nearly one mile) through a 0.25 mile buffer around known raptor nests Birds - Non -raptor Criteria Route 5A crosses chestnut -collared longspur breeding area (2.084 feet) and has a substantial distance (over 2.5 miles) through McCown's longspur mapped core areas. Visual Resources Criteria This route would be highly visible from 1-25 in views to the east. More than 11 miles of the route is located within the foreground viewing distance of the highway (0.5 mile). In addition. the route would be highly visible as it crosses a prominent landform just south of the state line. 4-19 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Land Use Criteria Three residences are located within 0.25 mile of the alignment. Cultural Resources Criteria In addition to being highly visible from the Natural Fort site. four known cultural resource sites are located within 75 feet of the alignment. Engineering Criteria Route 5A is one of the longest routes at 14.2 miles. approximately 1 mile longer than Route 2B. In addition. this route requires two crossings of 1-25 as well as two crossings of an active railroad. Linear Infrastructure Criteria Route 5A has nearly the lowest distance adjacent to an existing linear disturbance. Although parallel to 1-25 for most of its distance. Route 5A is separated from the highway by approximately 0.25 mile in order to avoid conflicts with existing land uses and other features. 4.1.15 Route 5B Route 5B is parallel to 1-25 for most of its length but is located further east of the highway in its northernmost segment in order to avoid proximity to the Natural Fort site. Vegetation and Surface Water Criteria Similar to Route 5A. Route 5B has a higher level of effect on these criteria, including one structure within the 100 -foot buffer of one drainage and four structures within a riparian area. In addition. Route 5A requires four crossings of riparian areas. Wildlife Criteria Similar to Route 5A. Route 5B has the greatest distance through mapped black -tailed prairie dog colonies (2.4 miles). In addition. the route is located in proximity to the National Black -Footed Ferret Conservation Center and had has the highest distances through pronghorn and mule deer winter habitat. Birds — Raptor Criteria Route 5B has the lowest distance through a 0.25 mile buffer around known raptor nests. Birds — Non -raptor Criteria As with Route 5A. Route 5B crosses chestnut -collared longspur breeding area (2.084 feet) and has a substantial distance (over 2.5 miles) through McCown's longspur mapped core areas. Visual Resources Criteria A large portion (8.23 miles) of Route 5B would be highly visible from 1-25. In addition, the route would be highly visible as it crosses a prominent landform just south of the state line_ Land Use Criteria Only one residence would be located within 0.25 mile of the alignment. 4-20 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Cultural Resources Criteria Two cultural resource sites are located within 75 feet of the alignment. one of the lower numbers of any alternative route Engineering Criteria Route 5A is the longest route at 14 5 miles, more than a mile longer than Route 2B. In addition. this route requires two crossings of 1-25, two crossings of an active railroad, and the highest number of angles (seven) greater than 45 degrees Linear Infrastructure Criteria Similar to Route 5A. Route 5B has the lowest distance adjacent to an existing linear disturbance. Conclusions Route 2B is the preferred alternative because it has the lowest or equal conflicts with the following criteria. • Vegetation and surface water criteria: • Wildlife Criteria (ranks third on the length of route in feet within pronghorn winter concentration areas. • Two of four non -raptor bird criteria: • Visual resources criteria: • Four of five land use criteria. • Five of six engineering criteria: • Distance of parallel route (in miles) adjacent to an existing linear feature; and • Grand total of best scores It is the shortest route with the fewest angle structures and parallels existing linear infrastructure for most of its length. The preferred alternative route will be carried forward into the Weld County 1041 permit application and Use by Special Review questionnaire and the Larimer County 1041 permit application. Upon approval of these permits, a utilities easement will be negotiated with the City of Fort Collins ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study 5.0 References Avian Power Line Interaction Committee (APLIC). 2012. Reducing Avian Collisions with Power Lines. The State of the Art in 2012. Edison Electric Institute and APLIC. Washington. D.C. APLIC and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2005. Avian protection Plan (APP) Guidelines. A joint Document Prepared by The Edison Electric Institute's Avian Power Line Interaction Committee (APLIC) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). April 2005. 88 pp. Baud. K. and Carter. M.F. 2016 Northern Harrier. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 174-175. Beane. R.D. 2016. Turkey Vulture. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 164-165 Beane. R.D. and Preston. C. 2016. Red-tailed Hawk. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 184-185. Birds of North America online. 2017 Various Species Profiles. Available online at: https://birdsna.org/Species-Account/bna/home. Accessed January 1. 2018. City of Fort Collins. 2013. Energy by Design Report to Colorado State Land Board. Non -Raptor Bird Range and Observation data. GIS data. Raptor Nest Sites and Observation data. GIS data. Mammal Range and Observation data. GIS data. Received. April 13. 2018 and May 16, 2018. City of Fort Collins. 2017. Mammal Range and Observations dataset. GIS data. Received April 13. 2018 and May 16. 2018. City of Fort Collins. 2018a. Raptor Nest Sites and Observation dataset. GIS data. Received June 12. 2018. City of Fort Collins. 2018b. Soapstone Prairie and Meadow Springs Ranch Roads dataset. GIS data. Received April 13. 2018. Clawges. R. 2016. Mourning Dove. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 240-241. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. 2016. The Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. 727 pp. Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP). 2017. Potential Conservation Area and Network of Conservation GIS data. Available online at: http://www.cnhp.colostate.edu/download/gis.asp. Accessed January 24. 2018. Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP) 2012 Colorado Ownership Management and Protection (COMaP) dataset. GIS data. Available online at: https://comap.cnhp.colostate.edu/comap-downloads/. Accessed August 27. 2017. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). 2018. Colorado Parks and Wildlife Aquatic Species database, GIS data. Received July 16. 2018. 5-1 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) 2017. CPW All Species Activity Mapping Data. Available online at: https//www arcgis com/home/item.html?id=190573c5aba643a0bc058e6f7f0510b7. Accessed January 1. 2018 Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). 2016. CPW All Species Activity Mapping Data. Available online at: http://www.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=190573c5aba643a0bc058e6f7f0510b7, Accessed December 13. 2017. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). 2015. State Wildlife Action Plan. Chapter 2: Species of Greatest Conservation Need. Available online at: http://cpw state co.us/Documents/WildlifeSpecies/SWAP/ CO_SWAP_Chapter2.pdf. Accessed January 1. 2018. Colorado Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (OAHP). 2018. Compass Cultural Resources GIS dataset, GIS data. Available online at https://gis.co.gov/compass/. Accessed May 14, 2018. Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission. 2018. Oil and Gas Facilities dataset, GIS data. Available online at: https://cogcc.state.co.us/data.html#/cogis. Accessed May 1. 2018. Dawson. J. 2016. Lark Sparrow. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 508-509. Dwyer, A.M. 2016. McCown s Longspur. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 464-465. Dwyer. J.F. 2016. Common Raven. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership Pages 378-379. ENYO. 2018. Raptor nest Aerial Survey Data. GIS data. Survey conducted May 23, 2018. Data received May 31, 2018. ESRI. 2010. U.S. Major Roads dataset. GIS data. Available online: https://www.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=871852b13b53426dabdf875f80c04261 Accessed May 1. 2018. Federal Road Administration (FRA) 2012. U.S. National Transportation Atlas Railroads. GIS data. Available online at: https://osav-usdot.opendata.arcgis.com. Accessed April 4, 2018. Freeman, W. 2016a. Cooper's Hawk_ As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership_ Pages 178-179. Freeman. W 2016b. Northern Mockingbird. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 454-455. Google Maps. 2018. Available online at: https://www.google.com/maps. Accessed various dates. Holmes. B. 2016. Killdeer. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 206-207. Jones. S.R. 2016a Burrowing Owl. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 260-261 5-2 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Jones, S.R. 2016b. Eastern Screech -Owl. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 254-255. Jones. S.R. 2016c. Say's Phoebe. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 334-335. Keeley. W.H. 2016a. Ferruginous Hawk. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 186-187. Keeley, W.H. 2016b. Swainson's Hawk. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 182-183. Kettler. S. et al 1996. Significant Plant. Animal. and Wetland Resources of Larimer County and their Conservation. December 1996. Kibbe. D.P. 2016a, Barn Owl. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas_ Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 248-249. Kibbe, D.P. 2016b. Chestnut -collared Longspur. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 462-463. Kingery. H.E. 2016a. Grasshopper Sparrow. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 518-519. Kingery. H.E. 2016b. Lark Bunting. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 514-515. Kingery. H.E. and Dwyer. A. M. 2016. Mountain Plover. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 208-209 Larimer County 2018. Larimer County GIS Digital Data. Assessor's Parcel Data, GIS data. Available online at: https://www.larimer.org/it/services/gis/digital-data. Accessed June 1, 2018. Meadow Springs Ranch (MSR). 2014. Meadows Springs Ranch Utility Easements dataset. GIS data. Data received April 20. 2018. Mitchell. C. and Pantle. D. 2016. Cliff Swallow. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 392-393. North American Bird Conservation Initiative. 2016. The State of North America's Birds 2016. Environment and Climate Change Canada: Ottawa. Ontario. 8 pages. www.stateofthebirds.org. Ortega. C.P. 2016a. Long-eared Owl. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 264-265. Ortega. C.P. 2016b. Red -winged Blackbird. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership Pages 550-551 Ortega. C.P 2016c, Sandhill Crane. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 196-197. Ortega. C.P. 2016d Short -eared Owl. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 266-267. 5-3 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY LLC. Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Study Rashid. S. 2016. Great Horned -Owl. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 256-257 Roundhouse Renewably Energy (RHRE). 2018. Existing Transmission Base dataset, GIS data. Data received April 5, 2018. Siebert. R. and Baker. B K. 2016. Western Meadowlark. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 554-555_ Siebert. R. and Dillon. B.M. 2016. Brown Thrasher. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas_ Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership_ Pages 450-451 Siebert. R. and Jones. S.R. 2016. Western Kingbird As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 342-343. Siebert. R. and Lambeth. R. 2016. Vesper Sparrow. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 506-507 Siebert. R. and Ryder. R.A. 2016. Horned Lark. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 380-381. Siebert. R. and Winn. R. 2016. American Kestrel. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 308-309 The Nature Conservancy. 2013. Mountains to Plains Energy by Design Report to the Colorado State Land Board. January 2013 U .S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). 2017_ National Agriculture Imaging Program. aerial imagery. Available online at: https://gis.apfo.usda.gov/arcgis/rest/services/NAIP. Accessed May 1. 2018. U .S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) 2008. National Wetlands Inventory Dataset. Available online at: https://www.fws.gov/wetlands/data/data-download.html Accessed May 1, 2018. U .S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2017. Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC). Available online at https://ecos.fws gov/ipac/location/ D2SXVZIZ7FA37MDQV67HMKUZZQ/resources#migratory-birds. Accessed_ June 25. 2018. U .S. Geological Survey Gap Analysis Program. 2016. 20160513. GAP/LANDFIRE National Terrestrial Ecosystems 2011- U S. Geological Survey. https://doi.org/10.5066/F7ZS2TM0. Accessed November 3. 2017. Wickersham. L.E. 2016a. Barn Swallow. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership_ Pages 394-395. Wickersham. L.E. 2016b. Rock Pigeon. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership_ 232-233 Wickersham, J L. 2016a. Bald Eagle. As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 172-173. Wickersham. J L. 2016c. Golden Eagle As presented in the Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Partnership. Pages 168-169. 5-4 1 t 3 6 6 7 S 11 12 Il g to N 2i ? d TBD rc6 i a` \ x �M m40 Ten C 13.{). —7- sA.✓ J Jr' 'A GROUNDING LUG 1 at, • 40 0 ITS 1?'t7 i\ e1 -. —t 1'4°I ° fp -4 I i t T —r- POLE LENGTH PER PLAN d PROFILE DRAWING -0 vP SEE NOTES 2 can - 4C, '1°5 8 ?tr i0 0° 5 J 14 8 N 5 REVEAL PER FOUNDATION - "- SCHEDULE NOTES I STRUCTURES SHALL BE STEEL POLES. GALVANIZED Pr I, ASTM A123 2 YANG AND YANG CONNECTION TO POLE SHALL BE DESIGNED TO WITHSTAND THE RESULTANT LOAD 10 DEGREES TO EITHER SIDE OF INDICATED LINE ANGLES OPGW DOWNLEAO CLAMP BRACKET SHALL START A t FEET BELOW TOP OF POLE AND CONTINUE DOWN POL r A T 5 FOOT INTERVALS TO OPGW SPLICE CASE ENDINL. ATTACHMENTS NOT MORE THAN IS FEET ABOVE GROUND LINE 4 PLATE THICKNESS TO BE DETERMINED BY POLE MANUFACTURER MAXIMUM PLATE THICKNESS SHALL b• 34" TO ALLOW HARDWARE FIT -UP IF LARGER THICKNESS IS REQUIRED FOR STRENGTH PURPOSES CONSULT ENGINEER S REFERENCE STRUCTURE FOUNDATION DRAWWNG Obit -004031 FOR DRILLED SHAFT FOUNDATION 6 REFERENCE STRUCTURE GROUNDING DETAILS IRH1.00603) FOR GROUNDING INSTALLATION PROCEDURES 7 SEE PLAN AND PROFILE DRAWINOb IRHI-00101) F U.r LOCATIONS WHERE OPOW SPLICING SHALL OCCUR REFERENCE OPGW SPLICING DETAILS IRHt-00612) FOR MODIFICATIONS TO OPOW HARDWARE ASSEMBLIES THIS DOCUMENT IS PRELIMINARY IN NATURE AND IS NOT A FINAL. SIGNED AND SEALED DOCUMENT. idly I try I LRU 1e K evron A I:. 2d 16IMSPIMBMI ISSUED FOR REVIEW PRELIMINARY - NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION BURNS OMSDONNELL_ tuRN561.k1A.,ty rrL EMjNEE RING COMPANY IN., 'MOO WARD PARKWAY KANSAS CITY 11064114 dote 07/2022015 rb6 pried M MOELLER dsWS M. PEPICH checked M MUELLER NExTera ENER NIGH NEX TERA ENERGY RESOURCES II r(D UNIVERSE BLVD. JUNO BEACH, FL 33406 PROJECT SITE ADDRESS TOO TBD ROUNDHOUSE 230-W TRANSMISSION LNFE TUBULAR STEEL PULE - DRILLED SrtAF I UEADENU • 4S'-00' LINE ANGLE STRUCTURE FRAWN(i I"D$Ct contract 105606 air;nrq r6v RH1-01122 - A Me! of 4 6heet4 IAe RHI-011225H01 DWG L L. 1 2 3 4 c 0 7 0 0 10 11 12 13 I 1 I/2' r 2 2 2 y Q TBD i a a a POLE LENGTH PER PLAN IL PROFILE DRAWING 13-0' 9 -1- 20 1'-0- m (tYPI 0 2 4 a T LI ET ABOVE GROUND HEIGHT 2G -0 N So U 81 0 0 I, 7 V1 t_ b 5 IT It 17! 8 5 8 5 THRU VANG It -- 41 ' Ca I SEE NOTES 2s. 5 -0" (rip) q STRUCTURE NUMBER SIGN EMBEDMENT DEPTH -. SEE FOUNDATION r SC HEOULE ,D '-0 - O 1 4,f• 1 SEE NOTE 7 ::..- j5:P?.rki 318" CORROSION SLEEVE NOTES 1 STRUCTURES SHALL BE STEEL POLES GALVANIZED PER ASTM A123 2 VANG AND YANG CONNECTION TO POLE SHALL BE DESIGNED TO WITHSTAND THE RESULTANT LOAD 10 DEGREES TO EITHER SIDE OF INDICATED LINE ANGLES 3 OPGW DOWNLEAD CLAMP BRACKET SHALL START AT 3 FEET BELOW TOP OF POLE AND CONTINUE DOWN POLE AT 5 FOOT INTERVALS TO OPUW SPLICE CASE. ENDING ATTACHMENTS NOT MORE THAN 15 FEET ABOVE GROUND UNE. 4 PLATE THICKNESS TO BE DETERMINED BY POLE MANUFACTURER MAXIMUM PLATE THICKNESS SHALL BE 14- TO ALLOW HARDWARE FIT -UP. IF LARGER THICKNESS IS REQUIRED FOR STRENGTH PURPOSES. CONSULT ENGINEER 5 REFERENCE STRUCTURE FOUNDATION DRAWING (RH1.00402) FOR DIRECT EMBED POLE 6 REFERENCE STRUCTURE GROUNDING DETAILS (RH1-00002) FOR GROUNDING INSTALLATION PROCEDURES 7 REFERENCE STRUCTURE ANCHOR DRAWINGS (RHI-004.51 0 MIT -00452) FOR GUY ANCHOR DETAILS. 0 SEE PLAN AND PROFILE DRAWINGS (RHI.00101) FOR LOCATIONS WHERE OPGW SPLICING SHALL OCCUR REFERENCE OPGW SPLICING DETAILS IRNI-00512) FOR MODIFICATIONS TO OPGW HARDWARE ASSEMBLIES. THIS DOCUMENT IS PRELIMINARY IN NATURE AND IS NOT A FINAL, SIGNED AND SEALED DOCUMENT. r I Oete I t11 I Lau I Ueau.PLon A I7120110IMSP IMBMI ISSUED FOR REVIEW PRELIMINARY - NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION BURNS XMSDONNELL- BURNS k McUCMMt LL ENGINEERING COMPANY, INC 8406 WARD PARKWAY KANSAS CITY MO64114 dale 07x20'2010 designed M MOELLER detailed M PEPICH checked M MOELLER NEXT ENER IIIYWIII NEXTERA ENERGY RESOURCES sic. /00 UNIVERSE BLVD JUNO BEACH. FL 33408 PROJECT SITE ADDRESS TBD TBD ROUNDHOUSE 230 -AV IRATRANSAISSION UNE TUBULAR STEEL POLE -DIRECT EMBED DEADEND • 46'-00' LINE ANGLE STRUCTURE FRAMING pro cle I comma 106086 • tav RH1-01121 - A sheet 1 file HMI-011215HW DWC of 4 Sheett 4 S I 7 10 11 12 13 C T 4 cc -lp et C POLE LENGTH PER PLAN & PROFILE DRAWING m 180 U� •I TOD Trb ATTACHMENT TAD ABOVE GROUND HEIGHT A STRUCTURE NUMBER SIGN C-%BE1311NT DEPTI i FOUNDATION SOcU O 0 Ir U v M SEE NOTE 2 SEE NOTE t BEARING PLATE NOTES I STRUCTURES SHALL BE STEEL POLES. GALVANIZED PER AS TM A123 2 REFERENCE STRUCTURE FOUNDATION DRAWING (RHI-00402) FOR DIRECT EMBED POLE 3 REFERENCE STRUCTURE GROUNDING DETAILS (RHI.00802) FOR GROUNDING INSTALLATION PROCEDURES 4 SNUBBING SHALL NOT BE 1'FRMIiTF D(IN hpArf K� POSTS THIS DOCUMENT /S PRELIMINARY IN NATURE AND IS NOT A FINAL, SIGNED AND SEALED DOCUMENT. MW .I In I by Iced A t•'20'201$MSP IMBMI ISSUED FOR REVIEW deMIKAIOn PRELIMINARY - NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION BURNS XMSDONNELL_ !:URNS 6 1M(1(iNNELL ENGINEERING COMPANY IN.. MD WARD PARKWAY KANSAS WY LLO 64114 date 07,202018 designed M MUElLER detailed M PEPICH M MOELLIN NEXTer ENERSyYe NEXTE RA ENERGY RESOURCES. ILL /00 UNIVERSE BLVD iJNO BEACH FL 13408 PROJECT SITE ADDRESS T8D TOO ROUNDHOUSE 2304V TRANSMISSION UNE TUBULAR STEEL POLE • DIREC I EMBE I. i XH1T TANGENT - 0'-1- UNE MARIE • BRACED Pk::. STRUCTURE FRAMING purled 105808 contract RH1-01101 - A .keel 1 IJe RI11-0I101SH01.DWG 01 4 marl: A 1 L. 1 2 3 4 6 6 7 S e 10 11 12 13 O 3 I, 2 z6 5 �= 1 re re U o W a a I I -2 1e7 a C a SHIELD WIRE ATTACHMENT al 11 J u20 g 0 3 a 2 a 06 a - O U N 11-0 h I0%0' 2 ABOVE GROUND HEIGHT STRUCTURE NUMBER SIGN C, a SOH oa° A \. r. lu N Lu YI a it TBD POLE LENGTH PER PLAN IL PROFILE DRAVNNG s 0 SEE NOTE 3 -I ra J I 4 uw w 1 • S , ,.a. T -0 - SEE NOTE 5 .d SEE NOTE 4 • I BEARING PLATE EMBEDMENT DEPTH -TAE FOUNDATION SCHEDLAE NOTES 1. STRUCTURES SWILL BE STEEL POLES GALVANIZED PER ASTM A123 2. PLATE THICKNESS TO BE DETERMINED by POLE MANUFACTURER MAXIMUM PLATE THICKNESS SHALL BE 3t4" TO ALLOW HARDWARE FIT -UP IF LARGER THICKNESS IS REQUIRED FOR STRENGTH PURPOSES CONSULT ENGINEER. 3. STRUCTURE SHALL BE DESIGNED TO MAINTAIN REQUIRED SINK; CLEARANCES FOR BOTH SPECIFIED ARM LENGTHS TALI 8, CORRESPONDS TO THE REQUIRED SWINGANGLES FOR AL•1r-0' AND e, FOR AL•16-0• 4 REFERENCE STRUCTURE FOUNDATION DRAWING (RHI.00401I FOR DIRECT EMBED POLE S REFERENCE STRUCTURE GROUNDING DETAILS IRH1-00602, FOR GROUNDING INSTALLATION PROCEDURES THIS DOCUMENT IS PRELIMINARY IN NATURE AND IS NOT A FINAL, SIGNED AND SEALED DOCUMENT. nu! A 17 181 IMP IMBMI ISSUED FOR REVIEW ULla I I7V I CMC I Cleatlpl,nn PRELIMINARY - NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION BURNS XMSDONNELL- bURNJ 6 I&L)ONNtLk tNGItLL r(INL C,iM P.1Ny INL 8400 WARD PARKWAY KANSAS CITY. MO 64114 (late 01,25201 S assigned M MOELLER detaded M. PEPICH chocked M MOELLER NEXTera ENE,AS NEXTERA ENERGY RESOURCES tic 700 UNIVERSE BLVD JUNO BEACH FL 33408 PROJECT SITE ADDRESS TBD reD ROUNDHOUSE 230 -WV TRANSMISSION LINE TUBULAR STEEL POLE - DIRECT EMBED LIGHT TANGENT • 0"-1' LINE ANUtE - SUSPENSION STRUCTURE FRAMING Proled I conned 105686 drawing RH1-01103 - 101/ A cheat I 01 4 We Rti 1-011O3SH01.DWG sheets D E F U H 1 P!,,,S,, , _i,,.in. :z, _,,t,Isr, hi, X AIR -1 Air Quality Construction Roundhouse will use dust abatement techniques on unpaved. un-vegetated surfaces to minimize airborne dust. NEER Construction Contractor X AIR -2 Air Quality Construction Roundhouse will post and enforce speed limits (e.g., 25 mph) to reduce airborne fugitive dust and comply with wildlife protection measures NEER Construction Contractor X AIR -3 Air Quality Construction Roundhouse will use dust abatement or cover construction materials and stockpiled soils if they are a source of fugitive dust. NEER Construction Contractor X AIR -4 Air Quality Construction Roundhouse will implement dust abatement techniques before and during surface deanng excavation, or blasting activities as necessary NEER Construction Contractor X X CUL-1 Cultural Resources Pre -construction Roundhouse will determine the presence of archaeological sites and historic properties in the area of potential effect on the basis of a records search of recorded sites and properties in the area and an archaeological survey. Archaeological sites and historic properties present in the area of potential effect will be reviewed to determine whether they meet the criteria of eligibility for listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHPj NEER City of Fort Collins X X CUL-2 Cultural Resources Pre -construction _ If cultural resources are present at the site. or if areas with a high potential to contain cultural material have been identified. Roundhouse will prepare a cultural resources management plan (CRMP) This plan will address mitigation activities to be taken for cultural resources found at the site. Roundhouse will avoid resources to the extent practicable and coordinate with the City of Fort Collins and the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) on other mitigation measures. NEER City of Fort Collins X X CUL-3 Cultural Resources All Phases Roundhouse will include in their construction worker training and operations staff training, the protocols for unanticipated discoveries and the consequences of unauthorized collection and destruction of artifacts. NEER Construction Contractor CUL-4 Cultural Resources Construction Roundhouse will bring to the attention of the appropriate County or City authorized officer any unexpected discovery of eligible cultural or paleontological resources dunng construction. Work will be halted in the vicinity of the find to avoid further disturbance to the resources while the resource(s) is being evaluated and appropnate mitigation measures are being developed. NEER City of Fort Collins x X ECO-1 Ecological Resources Pre -construction Construction Roundhouse will conduct surveys (or coordinate with the City of Fort Collins. as necessary) for federal- and/or state -protected species. and other species of concern (including special status plant and animal species) within the project area and design the project to avoid (if possible) minimize or mitigate impacts to these resources. NEER City of Fort Collins X X ECO-2 Ecological Resources Pre -construction Roundhouse will identify important sensitive or unique habitats in the vicinity of the project and design the project to avoid (if possible). minimize. or mitigate impacts to these habitats (e g locate the transmission structures and access roads in the least environmentally sensitive areas. i.e. away from ripanan habitats, streams wetlands. drainages or critical wildlife habitats) NEER City of Fort Collins X X ECO-3 Ecological Resources Pre -construction Roundhouse will evaluate avian use of the project area and design the project to minimize or mitigate the potential for bird strikes NEER X X ECO-4 Ecological Resources Pre -construction Roundhouse will determine the presence of active raptor nests (i.e.. raptor nests used during the breeding season). NEER X X ECO-5 Ecological Resources Pre -construction A habitat restoration plan will be developed to avoid (if possible) minimize or mitigate negative impacts on vulnerable wildlife while maintaining or enhancing habitat values for other species. The plan will identity revegetation, soil stabilization. and erosion reduction measures that will be implemented to ensure that all temporary use areas are restored The plan will require that restoration occur as soon as possible after completion of activities to reduce the amount of habitat convened at any one time and to speed up the recovery to natural habitats. NEER X X ECO-6 Ecological Resources Pre -construction Roundhouse will develop procedures to mitigate potential impacts to special status species Such measures could include avoidance and relocation of project structures. NEER X X ECO-7 Ecological Resources Pre -construction Roundhouse will design the project to discourage facility structure's use as perching or nesting substrates by birds (to the extent practicable). NEER X X ECO-9 Ecological Resources _ Roundhouse will coordinate with Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) if the project activities (i.e.. grading bonngs or other construction) may have potential to impact fish and wildlife species NEER X ECO-10 Ecological Resources Construction Roundhouse will undertake restoration in accordance with the Habitat Restoration Plan as soon as possible after completion of construction activities to reduce the amount of habitat converted at any one time and to hasten the recovery to natural habitats. _ NEER City of Fort Collins X X ECO-11 Ecological Resources Pre -construction Construction Roundhouse will educate/instruct all employees contractors. and site visitors to avoid harassment and disturbance of wildlife especially during reproductive (e.g. courtship and nesting) seasons. Roundhouse will not allow employees' pets on site dunng construction NEER Construction Contractor X X ECO-12 Ecological Resources Operations Roundhouse will ensure that observations of potential wildlife problems including special status wildlife or migratory bird mortality are reported to the local government or CPW/VVGFD authorized officers immediately NEER Construction Contractor _ E-2 Avoidance 0( Ign Ici ntif:er EXC-1 Resource Excavation and Blasting Activities Phase Construction Measure If necessary. Roundhouse will gain an understanding of the local hydrogeology Areas of groundwater discharge and recharge and their potential relationships with surface water bodies shall be identified. Responsibihtp NEER Construction Contractor Cnen,i X X EXC-2 Excavation and Blasting Activities Construction Roundhouse will avoid creating hydrologic conduits between two aquifers dunng foundation excavation and other activities. NEER Construction Contractor X EXC-3 Excavation and Blasting Activities Construction Roundhouse will bac kfill foundations and trenches with onginally excavated material as much as possible Excess excavation materials will be disposed of only in approved areas or if suitable. stockpiled for use in reclamation activities. NEER Construction Contractor X EXC-4 Excavation and Blasting Activities Construction Roundhouse will obtain borrow material only from authorized and permitted sites and existing sites may be used instead of new sites. NEER Construction Contractor X GEN-1 General All Phases Roundhouse will utilize existing roads and utility corridors to the maximum extent feasible. and minimize the number and length/size of new roads. lay -down areas and borrow areas. NEER Construction Contractor X X GEN-2 General All Phases Roundhouse will develop an Environmental Construction Compliance Monitoring Program to ensure that environmental conditions are monitored during construction of the project. Additional plans will be developed as necessary to ensure that environmental conditions are monitored during the operational and decommissioning phases of the project The monitoring program requirements, including adaptive management strategies, will be established to ensure that potential impacts are mitigated NEER X GEN-3 General All Phases Roundhouse will develop -good housekeeping" procedures to ensure that dunng operation the site will be kept clean of debris garbage. fugitive trash or waste, and graffiti. to prohibit scrap heaps and dumps. NEER Construction Contractor X GEN-4 General Pre -construction A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) will be developed pnor to project construction to control off -site migration of sediment and to control erosion during construction_ NEER X X GEN-5 General Construction Operation Roundhouse will ensure that all control and mitigation measures established for the project and resource -specific management plans will be maintained and implemented throughout the construction phase. as appropnate. These control and mitigation measures will be reviewed and revised as needed, to address changing conditions or requirements at the site throughout the operational phase. This adaptive management approach will help ensure that impacts from operations are kept to a minimum. NEER Construction Contractor X GEN-6 General Construction Roundhouse will minimize the area disturbed by construction and operation of the project (i.e., footpnnt). NEER Construction Contractor x GEN-7 General Construction Roundhouse will minimize the number and sizedength of roads, temporary fences. lay -down areas and borrow areas. NEER Construction Contractor x GEN-8 General Construction As practicable, Roundhouse will salvage and reapply during reclamation, the topsoil from excavations and construction activities. NEER Construction Contractor X GEN-9 General Construction Roundhouse will identify unstable slopes and local factors that can induce slope instability (such as groundwater conditions, precipitation, earthquake activities, slope angles, and the dip angles of geologic strata). As practicable. Roundhouse will avoid creating excessive slopes dunng excavation and blasting operations. Special construction techniques will be used where applicable. in areas of steep slopes. erodible soil, and stream channel crossings. NEER Construction Contractor X GEN-10 General Construction Roundhouse will utilize erosion controls to comply with county state. and federal standards. Practices such as jute netting. silt fences and check dams will be applied near disturbed areas on an as -needed basis. NEER Construction Contractor X GEN-11 General Decommissioning Prior to the termination of the City of Fort Collins easement agreement, Roundhouse will develop a decommissioning plan which would be approved by the City of Fort Collins. The decommissioning plan will include a Site Reclamation Plan and monitoring program. NEER X HAZ-1 Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Pre -construction Roundhouse will develop a Hazardous Materials Management Plan addressing storage, use, transportation, and disposal of each hazardous material anticipated to be used at the site The plan will identify all hazardous materials that would be used, stored, or transported at the site It will establish inspection procedures. storage requirements. storage quantity limits, inventory control. nonhazardous product substitutes, and disposition of excess materials. The plan will also identify requirements for notices to federal and local emergency response authorities and include emergency response plans. NEER X HAZ-2 Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Pre -construction Roundhouse will develop a Waste Management Plan identifying the waste streams that are expected to be generated at the site and addressing hazardous waste determination procedures, waste storage locations, waste -specific management and disposal requirements, inspection procedures, and waste minimization procedures. This plan will address all solid and liquid wastes that may be generated at the site. NEER E-3 b-3 Joloeiluo3 uoipru suoo a33N iopeniuoO pouad uogonJ;suoo ow buunp pasnbai am seiu oe Asiou Jingo Jo 6ugsefq li aoueepe w sivapisei Agseau Apou Him asnoypunoa uorpnJlsuo3 esioN P -ION uoiprulsuo3 a33N saouapisai Agneau woo apgeogoeid se Je; se paleoo1 aq Him (sioieiaua8 pue siossaidwoo ' al) luewdrnbe uogoruisuoo AJeuogels He Imo amsua Ho asnoypunoa uogonnisuop astoN B -ION X JopeJluo3 uogonJlsuo3 a33N •pauieiuew pue paµlnw Nalenbape aq ipm pass luawdinba uotpru;suoO IM ivawdinba feui8uo mil uo papwad asoul ueil anipaua ssaf ou saotnap laluoo-punos aney Nw luawdinba uogoni suoo He law amsua Ho asnoypunoa uotpnnlsuo3 asioN Z -ION X iol0e8uo3 uoiprulsuo3 a33N sAepNaam pue ('w d pi pue we g uaamlaq Apo awgAep all Aep;o sawq a%gtsuas-asiou seal ail 01(bugselq 6wpnpui) sagtnipe uoipnjlsuoo Amu pwq Him asnoypunoa uogonJlsuo3 msioN WON X a33N Jeoylo pezuoilne Apo Jo Nunop alels aieudadde aul as sump weiboid buuopuow to sifnsa, ail aptnoid Him asnoypunoa suogeaad0 6uuoiwow Z -NOW X Jopenuoo uogoniisuoO a33N spedwt leluawuoiinua Omni aziwiww o; sdwg pue sampaooid bugeiedo p,epuels olui sainseew uoilitNiw feuoipppe put suogenaesgo wei6oid Buuopuow aleiodioout Him esayl pewawafdwi aq Htm pafoid sail ypm paieioosse sueld pue sf000ioid Buuopuow aps Aue Imp ainsua Him asnoypunoa suogeia p 6uuopuow L -NOW X iopeiluo5 uotlorulsuo3 a33N algepene seol%ap dales iawo pue maim mg luarawns aie maw ley; amsua pinom SJ9)110M suorie,ado Buuna seseyd I1V NaleS pue wieaH uewnH d-SHH X a33N Ow si iabuep an; uags sumo° uod to pio ay; pue luawuedap/pulsip aiy pool alp Lpm lfnsuoo pue luawdmba uoguanaJd any asey pfnom sampoM 'pauteJ1 Naleudadde aq pfnom SJawom He Na%tpaua pue Appinb ways ypm leap pue saroua6iawa mg lua%aid o; mpg) ul aN pasneo-uewny e JO{ lequaiod ail aziwiuiw o; samseaw luewaidwi a1 ABaieils luewa6euew tag e dofanap Him asnoypunoa uoipnilsuoa-aid AIaIeS pue ylleaH uewnH C-SHH X JOIOeJIUO3 uoipnJlsuo3 a33N paysggelsa aq Him sarauabe eleudoidde of sluapl3oe snoues 8wuodeJ io; wsweyoaw a pue autumn ;o uogeluawnood saa)fJom He of Buiweil paJinbai Buipwoid Jo; sampaooid imp:Imsa pue Ilse; yoea io; &Iowans ioi sivawaitnbaJ butuimi piezey Nquapi 01 weiboid 8wuitu e apnpui Him weiboid ail (spiepuels uogoaloid Buiuly8q pue spiepueis weisAs 'coupe's 6'a) spiepuels aouewioped A;aies auyap pue sampaooid uoi1emena Ala;es aJg ysgge;se swat* Butiselq pue sentsopdxa;o asn ales Jo; saoipeid pJepuels VHSO 'sassawey Alales pue wewdtnba angoaloid leuosied Jo; swawannbai 8 a) Ilse; pea Jo; seogoeid Ifiom ales gsgqelsa spiepuels Alafes feuogedn000 ales pue leiapal apgeogdde He Nguapi Him weaBoid ail Alales pue yummy feuogedn000 Buipiebea taaraid ay; 10 6utuorssrwwOOap pue uotieiado uorpnJlsuoO Buunp oggnd peJaua8 ay; pue sJ0)fioM wog paloid o1 wejboid Spies pue gHeau e dofanap Him asnoypunoa uoipnilsuoo-aid kalnS pue upeaH uewnH Z-SHH X Jopequo3 uogoniisuo3 a33N faluoo any pue sainpaoad AOuebiawa luawabeuew ogiea; uoileuodsuejl luawdtnba Meag Animas saoipeid $Jos ales uogonilsuoo ssaooe ells se ions sansei 8uipnpui way; aiebgrw 01 uallel eq pinom Ian sueaw ail pue sansei Alaies leguaiod agtnsap oi luawssasse Armes e lumped Him asnoypunoa saseyd IIV AialeS pue ypeaH uewnH L-SHH X JopeJluo3 uotpru suo3 a33N •sagwgae uoipMsuoO;0 uogaldwoo le panowai aq Him pue fauuosiad aps-uo pa4Oadxa poddns as alenbape eq IpM sman uoipnJlsuoo Jo; paptnad saggt0el Aielwes aigeuod lueiodwal Nywoe; luawieaii a6emas fediownw ammo ue olut paonponw pue Jafney pasuaOq a Aq pa%owaJ AHeoipouad eq Ho seggaei Aneiwes algepod Aieiodwai wpm uogeioosse w pe;eieuab aelemalsem Aue ;mil ensue Him asnoypunoa uoi onilsuo3 ►uawabeueW a1seM pue spueleW S00111820H 9-ZVH X Jopei;uob uogonulsuo3 a33N •veld luawaBeueW spueleW snopiezeH pun OOdS s,palaid ail Aq paiinbei se salouabe ales pue tempos Jaw pue meoylo pezuoyine Apia Jo Awno3 aleudoidde ail oi papinoid aq Him Juana ail io uogewawnaop ueld luawaBeueW spua;ew snopJezeH pue OOdS s,pafoid ay; w paulHno seinpeonid mop); Illm asnoypunoa luawuoJIAua ail o; aseafai lewapIOOe ue 40 IueAa ail ul uogonilsuoo luawa8eueyy aiseM pue spume's; snopiezeH /-ZVH X Jone11uo3 uotpluisuo) tI33N ueid waw9Beuey spume's; snopiezeH pue 33dS s,peiaaayl ui peuipno seolpeid 9L; Jed se 'seippaei iesodsip papiwied aps-uo aleudoidde se lesodsip Joi Alleoipouad panowai pue pezueuieluoo Auadad ale seises ley; amsua Him asnoypunoa uoipnilsuo3 luewabeueW a;seM pue sleualeW snopiezeH 9-ZVH X iopeiluo3 uoipnilsuo3 a33N saturnine uoipnjlsuoo uoddns at pepeeu si se Buol se Jo; Aluo 6uwn000 Apnipe Aaeiodwal e eq ppt (ivawdinbe pue sepiyan uorpnilsuoo io;) aoeiois Ian; Jelmtued of suogeoof Aieuoge;s le 1dall fan; buipnpui eCeiois apses pue sfeuaiew snopiezei aps-uo He m paprnad si luawweluoo Aaepuooas ieyl ensue Him asnoypunoa pue sueld luawaBeueW spume's; snopJezeH pue 33dg s,pafoid ail wok aouepi000e ul uoipru;suo3 luawaBeueW azseM pue spume's; snoPJezeH S-ZVH X JopeJwo3 uopnilsuo3 a33N pa8euew fafaieudadde eq ppnom septum% aoueualwew pue suogeiedo pue luawdinbe uotpnj;suoo 'span; pue spiny ogneip L spo JOWL) 10 sheaf eztwiuiw 01 uoiprulsuo3 luawaBeueW eiseM pue spueleW snopnezeH P-ZVH X a33N saquoyine o; suogeoggou Alawq 8unfew Jo; sainpeooid pun sawn He to palpols I ;e enbape cue sing esuodsai Hids ay; leyl&uunsua Jot ampaooid e cps uo sills asuodsei Htds to suogeoof ail apses JO leualew Loma Jo; sllotpe esuodsa, Os aleudadde sluaweimbaw ()mien paluewafdwt eq as samseaw uonuenaJd Hids aps uo patois am sakes pue spuaiew snopiezey 9Jal4M BJNquapi uepd asuodsea pue uoguanaJd Hide e dofanap Ho asnoypunoa uogonnsuoo-aid luewa6euew a;seM pue sleualeW snopJezeH c -ZVH X fs Design Avoidance Criteria Identifier Resource Phase Measure Responsibility X NOX-1 Noxious Weeds Pre -construction Roundhouse will develop a plan for control of noxious weeds and invasive species. which could occur as a result of new surface disturbance activities at the site. The plan will address monitoring. education, the manner in which weeds spread. and methods for treating infestations. Roundhouse will use certified weed -free mulching as required by the City of Fort Collins and CPW/WGFD. Trucks and construction equipment that are arriving from locations with known invasive vegetation problems will undergo a controlled inspection and a cleaning area will be established to visually inspect construction equipment arriving at the project area and to remove and collect seeds that may be adhenng to tires and other equipment surfaces NEER Construction Contractor X NOX-2 Noxious Weeds Pre -construction Roundhouse may use pesticides on the site, and an integrated pest management plan will be developed to ensure that applications would be conducted within the framework of City of Fort Collins and CPW/VVGFD policies and entail only the use of EPA -registered pesticides. Roundhouse will use non -persistent, immobile pesticides and will only apply pesticides in accordance with label and application permit directions and stipulations for terrestrial and aquatic applications. NEER X X PAL -1 Paleontological Resources Pre -construction Roundhouse will determine whether paleontological resources exist in the project area on the basis of the sedimentary context of the area, a records search for past paleontological finds in the area and/or depending on the extent of existing information a paleontological survey NEER X X PAL -2 Paleontological Resources Pre -construction If paleontological resources are present at the site or if areas with a high potential to contain paleontological material have been identified Roundhouse may develop a Paleontological Resources Management Plan This plan will include a mitigation plan for collection of the fossils Roundhouse will avoid paleontological resources to the extent practicable. NEER X X PAL -3 Paleontological Resources All Phases Roundhouse will include in their construction worker training and operations staff training, the protocols for unanticipated discoveries and the consequences of unauthorized collection and destruction of fossils on pubkc land. NEER Construction Contractor X ROD -1 Roads Construction Roundhouse will use existing roads, but only if in safe and environmentally sound locations If new roads are necessary roads will be designed and constructed to the appropnate standard and be no higher than necessary to accommodate their intended functions (e.g.. traffic volume and weight of vehicles). Excessive grades on roads road embankments, ditches, and drainages will be avoided it practicable. especially in areas with erodible soils. Special construction techniques may be used, where applicable. Abandoned roads and roads that are no longer needed will be re -contoured and revegetated. NEER Construction Contractor X ROD -2 Roads Construction Whenever practicable. Roundhouse will design any new roads to follow natural contours and minimize side bill cuts. NEER X ROD -3 Roads Construction Roundhouse will locate roads away from drainage bottoms and avoid wetlands. if practicable. NEER X ROD -4 Roads Construction Roundhouse will use BMPs as stipulated in the projects SWPPP to minimize and/or avoid erosion during project construction and operations. NEER X ROD -5 Roads Construction Roundhouse will locate roads to minimize stream crossings. All structures crossing streams will be located and constructed so that they do not decrease channel stability or increase water velocity. All applicable federal and state permits will be obtained. NEER X ROD -6 Roads Construction Whenever practicable. Roundhouse will preserve hydrologic function and will avoid and/or minimize alteration of existing drainage systems especially in sensitive areas such as erodible soils or steep slopes. Potential soil erosion will be controlled at culvert outlets with appropriate structures Catch basins, roadway ditches, and culverts will be cleaned and maintained regularty NEER X TRA-1 Transportation Construction Roundhouse construction personnel and contractors will be instructed and required to adhere to speed limits commensurate with road types. traffic volumes. vehicle types and site -specific conditions. to ensure safe and efficient traffic flow and to reduce wildlife collisions and disturbance and airborne dust NEER Construction Contractor X TRA-2 Transportation Construction Roundhouse will place signs along construction roads to identify speed limits. travel restnctions. and other standard traffic control information. NEER X TRA-3 Transportation Operations Roundhouse will ensure that ongoing ground transportation planning will be conducted to evaluate road use. minimize traffic volume, and ensure that roads are maintained adequately to minimize associated impacts. NEER Construction Contractor X VEG-1 Vegetation and Reclamation Construction Temporanly disturbed areas would be revegetated using seed mixtures and techniques approved by the City of Fort Collins and CPW/WGFD. NEER City of Fort Collins X VEG-2 Vegetation and Reclamation Construction Restoration of disturbed areas would use certified weed -free seed (and mulch. if any is used) to prevent the spread of primary noxious weeds. NEER City of Fort Collins E-5 'Rec.. A' ;)haSE X X X VEG-3 VIS-1 VIS-2 Vegetation and Reclamation Visual Resources Visual Resources Construction Operation Decommissioning Pre -construction Construction To minimize the introduction of undesirable plant species into the project area specific control measures may be implemented including o Re -seeding of temporanly disturbed areas. o Applying weed -free fill. o Cleaning vehicles that would require travelling off of designated roadways. o Developing specific areas and construction yards for storing equipment matenals and vehicles o Implementing annual post -construction management and monitoring of access roads and structure sites for a designated penod after construction, and o Keepmgpersonal vehicles sanitary facilities, and staging areas at specific, limited weed -free locations Roundhouse will integrate the transmission line with the surrounding landscape to the extent practicable Design elements to be addressed include visual uniformity. use of monopoles and color of structures. Roundhouse will reduce visual impacts dunng construction by minimizing areas of surface disturbance. controlling erosion using dust suppression techniques. and restoring exposed soils as closely as possible to their original contour and vegetation NEER Construction Contractor NEER NEER Construction Contractor E-6 Environmental Protection Measures Environmental protection measures are the resource protection standards required by Larimer County. the City of Fort Collins. Colorado Parks and Wildlife and/or Platte River (per their Avian Protection Plan) as found in their adopted recommendations or codes (see Required By column). Where redundant with one another. similar measures are combined as necessary under the Measure column. Avoidance Conservation Measure Identifier Resource Phase Required By (Source) Measure Responsibility X AQ-1 Air Quality Construction City of Fort Collins CPW _ Construction -related dust disturbance shall be controlled, If needed, by the periodic application of water to all disturbed areas along the ROW and access roads. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X AQ-2 Air Quality Construction City of Fort Collins Vehicles and equipment showing excessive emission of exhaust gases due to poor engine adjustments or other inefficient operating conditions shall not be operated until corrective adjustments or repairs are made NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X AQ-3 Air Quality Post -Construction City of Fort Collins CPW Post -seeding mulch shall be utilized during reclamation activities at the discretion of the landowner to help reduce wind erosion and blowing dust. The mulch/stabilization shall be performed as soon as possible after completion of Project activities to minimize potential fugitive dust generation as revegetation occurs. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X BR -1 Biological Resources Construction City of Fort Collins Vegetation shall be preserved and protected from damage by construction operations to the maximum extent practicable. Removal of brush and trees shall be limited to those necessary for access and construction NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X BR -2 Biological Resources Construction City of Fort Collins CPW Disturbed areas will be reseeded with an approved seed mixture, and mulched (if necessary) during a recognized planting season. Mulching shall be applied only to those areas where potential erosion would prohibit vegetation establishment and growth. Locally collected seed shall be used for reseeding specified for the Project by CPW, the City of Fort Collins, or other landowners. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X BR -3 Biological Resources Pre -Construction City of Fort Collins During construction or maintenance activities, if known federally listed species or Colorado SGCN are likely to be encountered, an avoidance plan shall be created and implemented in consultation with CPW and USFWS to avoid or minimize impacts, as appropriate. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins CPW USFWS X BR -4 Biological Resources Post -Construction City of Fort Collins On completion of the work, all work areas, except any permanent access roads/trails, shall be regraded, as required, so that all surfaces drain naturally, blend with the natural terrain, and are left in a condition that will facilitate natural revegetation, provide for proper drainage, and prevent erosion. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor I X BR -5 Biological Resources Pre -Construction Construction Post -construction City of Fort Collins CPW A Noxious Weed Management Plan shall be developed that includes education of construction and operation personnel, selective herbicide spraying, and post -construction monitoring. Survey information collected during pre -construction surveys per the specific design criteria shall include species name, GIS extent of weed infestations within the ROW, and percent cover. Control of noxious and invasive species can include chemical, physical, and biological methods and shall be consistent with the State of Colorado, Lanmer County, Weld County, and the City of Fort Collins regulations and guidance. The intent of the weed management plan is to specify general weed prevention and control methods to be implemented pre-, during, and for 12 months post - construction. Control of the spread of noxious weeds and invasive species will reduce or minimize potential impacts to vegetation communities, wildlife habitat, and to fire potential from construction and operation. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins X X BR -6 Biological Resources Construction Post -Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) BMPs shall be implemented (including revegetation) and monitoring shall be conducted for revegetation efforts. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins X X BR -7 Biological Resources Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) - - BMPs shall be implemented to minimize disturbance to vegetation and riparian communities. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor E-8 Avoidance Conservation Measure Identifier Resource Phase Required By (Source) Measure Responsibility X BR -8 Riparian Woodlands and Shrublands Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) No surface occupancy shall occur within 100 feet from the riparian vegetation cover boundary. See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, page 24. NEER Engineering X BR -9 Riparian Woodlands and Shrublands Pre -Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) Conduct vegetation surveys and map the extent of riparian communities NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins X BR -10 Wetlands Construction Post -Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) BMPs shall be implemented and monitoring shall be conducted for erosion control measures to ensure effectiveness. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor x BR 11 i Wetl,uids Construction Post -Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) BMPs shall be implemented to prevent erosion, sedimentation, and any leakage of pollution or hazardous materials into wetl,nids NEER Engineering x BR -12 Wetlands Construction _ Energy by Design Report (2013) No surface occupancy shall occur within 100 feet from the wetland edge. See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, page 24. NEER Engineering x x BR -13 Wetlands Pre -Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) Conduct wetland surveys and delineation, as necessary NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins X BR -14 Riparian Woodlands and Shrublands Construction Post -Construction CPW Actions to Minimize Adverse Impacts to Wildlife Resources 2016 Weeds will be controlled along riparian corridors and manage livestock grazing to maintain riparian corridor health. City of Fort Collins X CR 1 Cultural Resources Pre -Construction City of Fort Collins Prior to construction, all supervisory construction personnel shall be instructed on protection of cultural resources with reference to relevant laws and penalties, and the need to cease work in the location if cultural resource items are discovered. Construction Contractor X CR-2 Cultural Resources Construction City of Fort Collins Should any previously unknown historic/prehistoric sites or artifacts be encountered during construction, all ground disturbing activities at that location will be immediately suspended and the discovery left intact until such time that the City, the County, and all other necessary personnel are notified and appropriate measures taken to assure compliance the National Historic Preservation Act and enabling legislation. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X X CR-3 Cultural Resources Pre -Construction City of Fort Collins A Class Ill cultural resources survey, conducted by a qualified archaeologist approved by the City and Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation, will be required for all areas proposed for surface disturbance that have not been previously surveyed. City of Fort Collins X CR-4 Cultural Resources Construction City of Fort Collins If a significant surface or sub -surface archaeological site is discovered during construction, mitigate the disturbance to the cultural property through an approved data recovery plan. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins x ( R-5 Cultural Resources Construction City of Fort Collins All major excavations shall be made accessible to archaeological inspections during construction_ NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X CR-6 Cultural Resources Construction City of Fort Collins If avoidance is not possible in areas identified as having a high probability of encountering potentially significant sub -surface archaeological sites, a qualified archaeologist will be required to monitor surface disturbance during construction. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X FP -1 Fire Prevention and Control Pre -Construction Construction Post -construction City of Fort Collins All contractors and necessary personnel shall maintain in all construction vehides a current list of local emergency response providers and methods of contact/communication. Construction vehides shall be equipped with government -approved spark arresters and fire extinguishers. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor E-9 Avoidance Conservation Measure Identifier Resource Phase Required By (Source) Measure Responsibility X FP -2 Fire Prevention and Control Pre -Construction Construction Post -construction City of Fort Collins The Operator and any contractors shall maintain in all construction vehicles a current list of local emergency response providers and methods of contact/communication. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X GD-1 Ground Distui bance Construction City of Fort Collins No construction activities shall be performed during periods when the soil is too wet to adequately support equipment and vehicles. If equipment or vehicles create ruts in excess of 4-6 inches deep for a distance of 10 feet on native surface roads, the soil shall be deemed too wet to adequately support construction equipment. If equipment or vehicles create ruts in excess of 1 inch deep on graveled roads, the roads shall be deemed too wet to support construction equipment. Construction mats will be used to reduce compaction in wet areas and to facilitate overland travel. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X GD-2 Ground Disturbance Construction City of Fort Collins Only the minimum amount of soils and vegetation necessary for the maintenance of access routes and the safe and reliable operation of the transmission line shall be disturbed. If excavation is necessary, topsoil shalt be conserved and reused as cover on disturbed areas to facilitate re- growth of vegetation. Vegetation shall be cleared from those areas necessary to obtain adequate working width and turning radius space for maintenance equipment and allow for the safe operation of the transmission line. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor x GD-3 Ground Disturbance Construction City of Fort Collins Water bars on the access roads shall be constructed as specified by the landowner. Water turn-off bars or small terraces shall be installed across all temporary construction access roads and trails on hillsides to prevent erosion and facilitate natural revegetation NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X GO -41 Ground Disturbance Construction City of Fort Collins Areas within the limits of disturbance that have been driven over, compacted or rutted by equipment shall be scarified to a depth of 8" and regraded to original grade and contours. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor x GM -1 General Pre -Construction City of Fort Collin-, Compliance with all Federal, state, and local environmental laws, orders, and regulations shall be mandatory Prior to construction, all supervisory construction personnel shall be instructed on the protection of cultural and ecological resources NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X GM -2 General Pre -Construction Construction City of Fort Collins CPW Prior to construction, a discussion with the contractor areas of environmental sensitivity within the Project area and, in particular, those areas where a monitor must be present during construction. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor x GM -3 General Construction City of Fort Collins All range improvements (stock water tanks, pipelines, corrals, etc.) shall be avoided by 500 feet unless no other alternative is available and impacts can be avoided or mitigated NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X GM -4 General Construction City of Fort Collins Gates shall be used for crossing fences whenever practical. If a fence must be crossed by a vehicle at a location other than an existing gate, contact the appropriate City of Fort Collins personnel before any activity is started at a fence crossing location and follow specified procedures. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins x GM -5 ; General Pre -Construction Construction City of Fort Collins Instruct all personnel and contractors to minimize contact with, and avoid harassment of livestock. Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X GM -6 General Construction City of Fort Collins Do not remove or alter existing range improvements unless prior approval is obtained from the City of Fort Collins. 1 NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X G GM -7 General Construction City of Fort Collins Leave all gates within the Project area as they are found. Where access requires the disruption of an existing fence, consult with the City of Fort Collins to determine an appropriate solution NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins E-10 Avoidance Conservation Measure Identifier Resource Phase Required By (Source) Measure Responsibility X GM -8 General Pre -Construction Ciry of Fort Collins Post temporary signs informing the public that this is the Grantee's Project and indicating the purpose of the Project and the grantee's phone number. Signs shall be posted at the locations designated by the City of Fort Collins. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X GM -9 . General Pie -Construction ( ity of Fort Cu,llrns Install temporary fencing (orange construction fencing, poly rope, etc.) or other marker approved by the City of Fort Collins to dearly identify the easement limits (limits of disturbance) on the site. No construction activities shall begin until the City of Fort Collins' representative has approved the field demarcation. Install temporary fencing (orange construction fencing, poly rope etc.) or other marker approved by the landowner to clearly identify the easement limits (limits of disturbance) on the site. All activities associated with the construction, operation, and maintenance of the transmission line shall take place within the authorized limits of the transmission line ROW and access routes. Additional access routes or cross-country travel shall not be allowed outside of the ,,uthur lied r outes prior to review and approval by the landowner. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X GM -10 General _ Construction _ City of Fort Collins Maintain a safe work area and protect the safety and welfare of the employees, contractors or subcontractors, and the general public, including without limitation providing barricades and safety fences around excavations and drop-offs left open at the end of a work day. Safety recautions must be in compliance with all applicable laws, rules and regulations. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins x HM -1 Hazardous Materials Construction City of Fort Collins Compliance with all applicable Federal laws and regulations existing or hereafter enacted or promulgated regarding toxic substances or hazardous materials shall be mandatory. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X HM -2 Hazardous Materials Construction City of Fort Collins All fuel and fluid spills within this area shall be handled in accordance with appropriate state and Federal spill reporting and response requirements. The Regulatory authorities shall be notified of any spills. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor Regulatory Authorities City of Fort Collins X HM -3 Hazardous Materials Construction City of Fort Collins _ Construction activities shall be performed by methods that prevent entrance or accidental spillage of solid matter, contaminants debris, and other objectionable pollutants and wastes into flowing streams or dry water courses, lakes, and underground water sources. Such pollutants and wastes include, but are not restricted to, refuse, garbage, cement, concrete, sanitary waste, industrial waste, oil and other petroleum products NEER Engineering Construction Contractor Regulatory Authorities City of Fort Collins X HM -4 Hazardous Materials Construction City of Fort Collins Any waste generated during construction or maintenance shall be properly disposed of in a permitted facility Solid waste generated during construction and periodic maintenance periods will be minimal. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X LU-1 Land Use Construction City of Fort Collins Fences, brace panels, and gates shall be maintained during the construction period. Any fence, brace panel, or gate damaged during construction will be repaired immediately by the contractor to appropriate landowner standards NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X W W-2 Land Use Construction City of Fort Collins At the earliest opportunity, all construction ruts that are hazardous to movement of vehicles and equipment shall be eliminated. Such ruts shall be leveled, filled, and graded, or otherwise eliminated in an approved manner. Damage to ditches, tile drains, culverts, terraces, local roads, and other similar land use features shall be corrected as necessary by the contractor. The land and facilities shall be restored as nearly aspracticable to their original condition. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins Avoidance Conservation Measure Identifier Resource Phase Required By (Source) Measure Responsibility x LU-3 Land Use Construction City of Fort Collins CPW Structure foundation holes shall not be left open overnight and will be covered. Covers shall be secured in place and will be strong enough to prevent livestock, wildlife, or the public from falling. No open posts or poles shall be left on site. All posts and poles will be capped or filled with sand to prevent entrapment of wildlife NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X LU-4 Land Use Construction City of Fort Collins Work with affected landowners in an effort to minimize adverse effects on agricultural use, including transmission structure placement and other construction and operational practices. If it is necessary to relocate livestock from areas where construction operations are taking place, arrangement will be made with landowners. Coordinate with the livestock operators to identify concerns along with any agreed -upon corrective actions prior to construction during the grazing season and post -reclamation. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins i X LU-5 Land Use Pre -Construction City of Fort Collins Coordinate with the City of Fort Collins' livestock operators on an annual basis or more frequently as needed to discuss 1) the annual grazing plan, 2) concerns identified by the City of Fort Collins or the livestock operator along with any agreed -upon corrective actions, and 3) planned energy development and operations during the grazing season. This meeting shall occur at least 60 days prior to the start of the annual grazing plan NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X N-1 Noise Construction City of Fort Collins Construction vehicles and equipment shall be maintained in proper operating condition and shall be equipped with manufacturers' standard noise -control devices or better (e.g. mufflers, engine enclosures). NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X PR -1 Paleontological Resources Construction City of Fort Collins The cost of any required paleontological appraisals, surface collection of fossils, or salvage of any large conspicuous fossils of significant scientific interest discovered during the operation will be the responsibility of NEER. NEER Engineering X PR -2 Paleontological Resources Construction City of Fort Collins Make all major excavations accessible to paleontological inspections and geologic research by a qualified geo•archeologist. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins x PR -3 Paleontological Resources Construction City of Fort Collins Significant fossils or localities previously known or discovered during the survey will be avoided NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X SG -1 Soils and Geol Post -Construction City of Fort Collins _ All soils compacted by movement of construction vehicles and equipment by 1) loosened and leveled harrowing or disking to approximate pre -construction contours and 2) reseeding with certified weed -free grasses and mulch, shall be mitigated. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor x SG -2 Soils and Geology Construction City of Fort Collins For areas with native vegetation, topsoil shall be stripped in all areas of excavation to a depth of 8 inches and stockpiled separately NEER Engineering Construction Contractor NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X SG -3 Soils and Geology Construction Post -Construction City of Fort Collins Excavated material not used in the badcfilling of poles shall be spread around each pole, evenly spread on the access routes in the immediate vicinity of the pole structure, or transported off site. Disturbed areas shall then be regraded to approximate pre -construction contours and reseeded. x SG -4 Soils and Geology Construction Post -Construction City of Fort Collins Topsoil shall be removed as necessary, stockpiled, and re -spread at temporarily disturbed areas not needed for maintenance access NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X SG -S Soils and Geology Construction City of Fort Collins During construction, erosion control measures shall be inspected after every storm event and maintained. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor f-12 Avoidance Conservation Measure Identifier Resource Phase Required By (Source) Measure Responsibility x u, 6 Soils and Geology Post -Construction City of Fort Collins During reclamation and decommissioning, compacted areas (typically any area that received repeated traffic or three or more passes by heavy equipment) shall be decompacted, to the depth of compaction, by subsoiling, paraplowing, or ripping on the contour to the depth of compaction Soils shall be decompacted only when needed, and where decompaction would result in more net benefit than not employing decompaction methods to help prepare the seed bed, encourage infiltration, and help to prevent accelerated runoff and erosion. Scarification shall only be used on shallow soils --- NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X SG -7 Soils and Geology Construction Post -Construction City of Fort Collins Soil stockpiles left in place for more than one week shall be protected from wind and water erosion using the proper best management practices (mulch, tackifier, cover crop, etc.) to protect disturbed soils from losses to wind and water erosion. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X SG -8 Soils and Geology Post -Construction C qty of Fort Collins The City shall be responsible for ongoing vegetation management, including weed control, mowing, and reseeding, as needed, in areas disturbed and restored. City of Fort Collins X SG -9 Soils and Geology Post -Construction City of Fort Collins Seed all disturbed and topsoiled areas with a seed mix of native species specified by the City. In most cases the salvaged topsoil will provide the seedbank needed for restoration and no additional seeding will he needed. If the City determines additional seed is needed, only seed collected from within Meadow Springs or Soapstone Prairie Natural Area will be allowed. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X SG 10 Soils and Geology Pre -Construction City of Fort Collins Meet with the City's representative to discuss and get approval of the final grading and the seeding /mulching process prior to reseeding NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X SG -11 Soils and Geology Post -Construction City of Fort Collins In excavated or heavily disturbed areas, topsoils shall be placed in an 8 -inch layer on top of the subsoil in the corresponding tone immediately following the completion of construction. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X SS 1 Rare Plant Species including Colorado I butterfly plant Pre -Construction Construction Post -Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) City of Fort Collins USFWS (per ESA) Minimize impacts within 300 feet of a rare plant occurrence. Pre -construction surveys in suitable habitat will be required to establish presence or absence of rare plant species NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins USFWS X SS -2 Rare Plant Species including Colorado I butterfly plant Pre -Construction Construction Post -Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) City of Fort Collins USFWS (per ESA) 1 Disturbance to federally listed species shall be avoided as well as those rated as globally or critically imperiled (G1 or G2) by the Colorado Natural Heritage Program. Pre -construction surveys in suitable habitat will be required to establish presence or absence of rare lant s ecies. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins USFWS X SS -3 Rare Plant Species including Colorado butterfly plant Pre Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) City of Fort Collins USFWS (per ESA) Consult with the City of fort Collins to deterniine plant species and plain communities of concern in the Project area and to develop any needed surveys or monitoring. For linear features such as roads and transmission lines, surveys shall extend at least 100 meters beyond the edge of the proposed Ground disturbance in each direction. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins E-13 Avoidance Conservation Measure Identifier Resource Phase Required By (Source) Measure Responsibility X _ SS -4 Rare Plant Species including Colorado butterfly plant Pre -Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) City of Fort Collins USFWS (per ESA) Plant surveys shall be conducted in all suitable habitats within 200 meters of the proposed disturbance areas for all plant species and plant communities of concern. Surveys shall be performed by a qualified field botanist. Surveyors shall include in their report a dated photograph of the plants taken at nearby locations to show flowering status at the time of surveys. Surveys for occupied habitat shall be performed prior to any ground disturbance, including staking of the site Surveys shall take place when the plants can be positively identified, and during the appropriate flowering season. No surface occupancy shall occur from 0 to 300 feet from mapped occurrences. Limit surface occupancy within 300 to 600 feet from mapped occurrences. BMPs shall be implemented to prevent erosion, sedimentation, and any leakage of pollution or hazardous materials into wetlands. See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, page 24. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins x Ti Traffic Construction lily of Fort Collins All necessary provisions must be made for conformance with Federal, state, and local traffic safety standards and shall conduct construction operations so as to offer the least possible obstruction and inconvenience to public traffic NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X VA -1 Visual Aesthetics Construction City of Fort Collins Scarring, defacing, damage, or destruction of the natural landscape resulting from construction operations shall be minimized. Any unnecessary or unauthorized damage shall be repaired. Except where clearing is required for permanent works, approved temporary or permanent construction roads, staging areas, or excavation operations, vegetation shall be preserved and protected from damage by the construction operations and equipment. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor x VA -2 Visual Aesthetics Construction Crty of Fort Collins All construction materials, waste, and debris shall be removed from the Project area in a timely manner. Burning or burying of waste materials on the ROW or at the construction site shall not be allowed All materials resulting from the clearing operations shall be removed from the ROW. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X VA -3 Visual Aesthetics Construction City of Fort Collins Non-specular conductors and non -reflective coatings on insulators shall be used as necessary in areas that are not expected to be prone to avian collision. NEER Engineering Transmission structures will be treated with torten or a rusting agent to blend with the existing colors of the surrounding landscape (OR) Galvanized steel monopoles poles and davit arms shall VA -4 Visual Aesthetics Construction City of Fort Collins receive a non-specular treatment to dull their reflectivity and reduce glare. NEER Engineering x W-1 Birds, General Pre -Construction City of Fort Collins CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) USFWS (per MBTA, BGEPA, and associated orders and regulations) Platte River Power Authority APP 2011) The recommendations from "Suggested Practices for Avian Protection on Power Lines, the State of the Art in 2012", Suggested Practices for Avian Protection on Power Lines: The State of the Art in 2006, and the "Avian Protection Plan (APP) Guidelines" (2005 as amended) shall be implemented for proper design and retrofit considerations for powerlines and poles to minimize raptor collision and electrocution potential These documents can be ordered at the Edison Electric Institute web site (www.eei.org) or can be downloaded at the Avian Power Line Interaction Committee web site (www.aplic.org). If a 60 -inch clearance between energized conductors and grounded hardware is not feasible for any reason, covers may be used according to industry standards, product manufacturer's specifications, agency recommendations and/or APUC recommendations All appropriate agencies including the USFWS shall be consulted and, it a permit is required, all applicable conditions shall be met. NEER Engineering E-14 Conservation Avoidance Measure Identifier Resource Phase Required By (Source) Measure Responsibility Pre -Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) City of Fort Collins USFWS (per MBTA and associated orders and To minimize disturbance to migratory birds during the breeding and nesting season, no surtace disturbing activities will occur during the migratory bird breeding season (varies by species) If avoidance of surface disturbance during the breeding season is not possible, then a qualified biologist will conduct nest searches no more than 7 days prior to clearing activities. Active nests will be avoided with spatial and timing buffers appropriate for the species until the nest has fledged or is no longer active. Coordination with USFWS, CPW, and the City of Fort Collins would occur to determine appropriate survey protocols and avoidance buffers prior to surveys. Nest NEER Engineering X W-2 Birds, General Construction regulations) monitoring will be conducted by qualified individual(s) City of Fort Collins X W-3 Birds, General Construction Platte River Power Authority APP (2011) In areas where crossings, risk of collision visibility devices Please see Bird diverters surface water colonies. there is concern about the safety of protected birds (e.g. wetlands, stream historic staging areas) ... visibility enhancing devices should be considered to reduce the These can include products such as marker balls, bird diverters or other line placed in varying configurations depending on the line design and location. latest edition of Mitigating Bird Collisions with Power Lines for additional information. are recommended in areas with potential for avian collision such as near wetlands, or drainages, riparian areas or trees, daily or migratory flight paths, and prairie dog NEER (or Project Owner) Pre -Construction Platte River Power Authority Bird mortalities and problem nests shall be documented when identified. Problems that are identified shall receive remedial measures where appropriate. All appropriate agencies shall be notified All avian fatalities and injuries will be reported to the USFWS through the online Avian Mortality Reporting System and other reports may be filed as required by permit conditions or other requirements. If a protected bird is found to be injured or killed near equipment owned by Platte River, a bird fatality/injury field report should be completed and sent to the Environmental Services Department. This form is used to ensure that all information about the incident is NEER Engineering X W-4 Birds, General Post -Construction Avian Protection Plan collected and available as required by the USFWS NEER or Project Owner X W-5 Birds, General Pre -Construction Post -Construction CPW Best Management Practices for Wind Farm Development 2013 Consult with CPW for review and comment on wildlife and habitat survey protocol, including monitoring locations, before the protocol is finalized. It is recommended that pre -construction and construction/ post -construction monitoring be conducted using similar methods, so that valid comparisons can be made. The recommended length of study for both pre and post -construction surveys is 1 year. CPW requests the opportunity to comment on baseline or impact surveys, as well as amendments made to infrastructure facility placement, county permit requirements or recommendations. CPW encourages developers to be proactive in bringing plans for additional phases or developments to our attention prior to establishing infrastructure placement and routing, in the hope that proactive, cooperative efforts will identify concerns early in the project so that they may be appropriately addressed. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins E-15 Avoidance Conservation Measure Identifier Resource Phase Required By (Source) Measure Responsibility X W-6 Raptors, General Pre -Construction Construction City of Fort Collins CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) USFWS (per MBTA, BGEPA, and associated orders and regulations) Prior to construction, a survey shall be conducted for suitable nesting habitat (cliffs, large trees, snags, etc.) within 0.5 mile of the proposed activity for alternate, inactive, and active raptor nests. Consult with City of Fort Collins, CPW, and USFWS on mitigation measures, including seasonal timing restrictions and recommended buffer zones. See CPW Recommended Buffer Zones and Seasonal Restrictions for Colorado Raptors (August 2008). Raptor survey data shall be provided for incorporation into the CPW raptor database which is used to update Wildlife Maps. No surface occupancy shall occur within 0.25 mile from active raptor nests not otherwise specified (e.g., red- tailed hawk, great homed owl, northem harrier). Avoid disturbance of raptor nesting habitat during the breeding season (variable by species —January 1 to July 15). See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, page 24. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins X W-7 Raptors, General Construction City of Fort Collins CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) USFWS (per MBTA, BGEPA, and associated orders and regulations) Avoid impacts to raptor roost sites during the wintering period (variable by species — November 15 to April 1). Surveys for winter roost sites would be required to implement this measure. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X X W-8 Aquatic Species Pre -Construction Post -Construction CPW Actions to Minimize Adverse Impacts to Wildlife Resources 2016 Consultation with CPW regarding baseline aquatic species and macro -invertebrate inventory data both pre- and post -development NEER Engineering X W-9 American Badger Pre -Construction Construction City of Fort Collins Conduct surveys to determine if any badgers are denning within 300 feet of the limits of development Contact the City of Fort Collins if any den sites are located Avoidance and monitoring to be developed in coordination with the City of Fort Collins. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins x W-10 Bald Eagle Flight Path Pre -Construction Construction City of Fort Collins CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) USFWS (per MBTA and BGEPA) If practicable, avoid potentially disruptive activities or permanent above -ground structures in the bald eagles' direct flight path between their nest and roost sites and important foraging areas- Surveys for bald eagle activity would be required to implement this measure City of Fort Collins X W-11 Bald Eagle Nest Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) City of Fort Collins CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) USFWS (per MBTA, BGEPA, and associated orders and rejulations) - Pre -construction surveys by qualified individual(s) will be conducted according to current acceptable protocol Activity within 0-5 mile of bald eagle nest sites would be best conducted between August 15 and October 15. No human disturbance or construction activity within 0.5 mile of any active bald eagle nest from November 15 to July 31. No surface occupancy (beyond that which has historically occurred in the area) within 0.25 mile of any active or historic bald eagle nest site. See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, page 24. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins x W Pre -construction Construction City of Fort Collins Locations where groups ut bats are observed shall be reported to CPW. Consultation with CPW regarding locations of known bat roost sites shall occur. Surface disturbance activities within 0.25 mile of all Townsend's big -eared bat, fringed myotis, and Brazilian free -tailed bat roost sites will be Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins 11 Bats Post -construction CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) avoided X W-13 Black -footed Ferret Black -tailed Prairie Dog Construction City of Fort Collins USFWS (per ESA) CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) If construction will occur in or through an area that contains or may contain black -tailed prairie dogs, follow the CPW protocol for surveys. No impacts can occur within and over an active black - tailed prairie dog colony between February 1 and July 31. No surface occupancy will occur in active black -tailed prairie dog colonies within a designated prairie dog management zone or conservation zone. Surface disturbance activities shall be precluded between February 1 through July 31, with special attention to the period between May 1 and July 15, in prairie dog colonies where black -footed ferrets have been released or documented. If construction must occur on or within prairie dog colonies, activities must be conducted outside the period between March 1 and June 15. See definitions of Surface occupancy in the energy by Design Report, page 24. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins J E-16 Conservation Avoidance Measure Identifier Resource Phase Required By (Source) Measure Responsibility Black -footed City of Fort Collins it construction will occur in of through an area that contains or may contain black -tailed prairie dogs, a survey is required to determine the presence of black -footed ferrets Contact the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department at least 90 days prior to any construction activities. The Natural Areas Department will survey the colony and if any black -footed ferret is found, the City of NEER Engineering x W 14 Ferret Pre -Construction CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) Fort Collins wilt work to relocate the animal City of Fort Collins X W-15 Black -footed Ferret Pre -Construction . CPW Actions to Minimize Adverse Impacts to Wildlife Resources 2016 City of Fort Collins USFWS (per ESA) Unless expressly permitted under a Safe Harbor or Section 10(j) Agreement, surface facilities will be placed outside of prairie dog colonies where black- footed ferrets have been released or documented. Unless expressly permitted under a Safe Harbor or Section 10(j) Agreement, surface disturbance activities will be precluded between March 1 and July 15, with special attention to the period between May 1 and July 15, in prairie dog colonies where black -footed ferrets have been released or documented. Unless expressly permitted under a Safe Harbor or Section 10(j) Agreement, development of new roads will be precluded in active prairie dog colonies where black -footed ferrets have been released or documented. Unless expressly permitted under a Safe Harbor or Section 10(j) Agreement, poison bait will not be used to control prairie dogs in prairie do colonies where black -footed ferrets have been released or documented. NEER Engineering x W-16 Black -footed Ferret/Black-tailed Prairie Dog Post -Construction CPW Actions to Minimize Adverse Impacts to Wildlife Resources 2016 City of Fort Collins USFWS (per ESA) Disturbed areas within prairie dog colonies where black -footed ferrets have been released or documented will be promptly reclaimed with native grasses and forbs identified by CPW as appropriate to the ecological site. The operator agrees to preclude the use of CPW-identified aggressive non-native grasses and actively manage invasive weeds, particularly cheatgrass, in reclamation are,is within prairie dog habitat NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins X W-17 Black -tailed Prairie Dog Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) City of Fort Collins USFWS (per ESA) If construction occurs between August 1 and January 31, any prairie dogs within the construction area can be relocated through accepted passive relocation techniques Relocation can only occur after the City of Fort Collins has surveyed for and relocated black -footed ferrets from the construction area. Relocation of prairie dogs between February 1 and July 31 is not permitted. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins Black -tailed Prairie CPW Actions to Minimize Adverse Impacts to Wildlife Raptor perch deterrents will be installed on equipment, fences, cross arms and pole tops in prairie X W-18 Dog Construction Resources 2016 dog habitat NEER Engineering X _ W W-19 Burrowing Owl Pre -Construction City of Fort Collins CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) USFWS (per MBTA and associated orders and regulations) CPW Best Management Practices for Wind Farm Development 2013 CPW Actions to Minimize Adverse Impacts to Wildlife Resources 2016 All prairie dog colonies within and adjacent to the proposed project should be located prior to construction. If development in prairie dog colonies occurs during the spring or summer months (Feb 1 to Oct 31), the presence of burrowing owls and whether they are actively nesting should first be determined. If new construction must occur within or near any active or inactive prairie dog colonies, between March 1 and October 31, surveys shall use CPW's recommended burrowing owl survey protocol. Avoidance measures will be implemented in coordination with CPW and the City of Fort Collins to protect nesting burrowing owls. If nesting burrowing owls are present, no human encroachment or surface disturbance should occur within 300 feet of nesting burrows March 1 -August 15. If burrowing owls merely occupy the site, it is recommended that earthmovin and other disturbance activities be delayed until late fall after they have migrated. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins 117 Avoidance Conservation Measure Identifier Resource Phase Required By (Source) Measure Responsibility x W-20 Chestnut -collared Longspur Breeding Areas Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) City of Fort Collins USFWS (per MBTA and associated orders and regulations) Conduct pre -construction nest surveys along the Project ROW (per MBTA). Maintain noise levels at or below 49dB from April 1 to June 30. During the breeding season, no surface occupancy within identified breeding areas plus a 300 foot buffer See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, page 24. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins K W-21 Coyote Pre -Construction Construction City of Fort ColOns Conduct surveys to determine if any coyotes are denning within 300 feet of the limits of development. Contact the City of Fort Collins if any den sites are located. Avoidance and monitoring to be developed in coordination with the City of Fort Collins. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins x W-21 Ferruginous Hawk Nest Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) City of Fort Collins USFWS (per MBTA and associated orders and i i•i;ulauons) Conduct pre -construction nest surveys. No surface occupancy, human disturbance, or construction activity (beyond that which has historically occurred in the area) within 0 5 mile from active or alternate nests from February 1 through July 15. Alternate and inactive ferruginous hawk nest sites will be identified within 0.5 mile of active ferruginous hawk nest sites. See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, page 24. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins x _ W-22 Golden Eagle Nest Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) City of Fort Collins CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) USFWS (per MBTA, BGEPA, and associated orders and regulations) Conduct pre -construction nest surveys. No surface occupancy (beyond that which has historically occurred in the area) within 0.25 mile of any active golden eagle nest sites. No human disturbance or construction activity within 0.5 mile from active nests from December 15 through July 15. See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, page 24. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins x W-23 Iowa Darter Pre -Construction Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) City of Fort Collins CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) Using data from CPW, identify the creeks and streams where Iowa darter is known to occur. Site the Project to be a minimum of 600 feet from the high water mark of creeks and streams occupied by Iowa darter (no surface occupancy). See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, page 24. Impacts to this species or its habitat are not expected. NEER Engineering Cit Fort Collins y of x _ W-24 Lark Bunting Core Areas Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) City of Fort Collins USFWS (per MBTA and associated orders and regulations) Conduct pre -construction nest surveys along the Project ROW (per MBTA). Maintain noise levels at or below 49dB from April 1 to June 30. Limited surface occupancy within an identified core area plus a 450 foot buffer. See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, page 24. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins X W-25 McCown's Longspur Core Areas Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) City of Fort Collins USFWS (per MBTA and associated orders and regulations) Conduct pre -construction nest surveys along the Project ROW (per MBTA). Limited surface occupancy within an identified core area plus a 450 foot buffer Maintain noise levels at or below 49dB from April 1 to June 30. See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, pageant NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins x W-26 Mountain Plover Sta in Area Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) City of Fort Collins USFWS (per MBTA and associated orders and regulations) Survey Project area for mountain plover after July 15 for evidence of mountain plover flocks staging for fall migration. No surface occupancy within an identified staging area plus a 600 foot buffer. See definitions of Surface Occu anc in the Energy by Design Report, page 24. NEER Engineering Cyof Fort Collins E -18 Avoidance Conservation Measure Identifier Resource Phase Required By (Source) Measure Responsibility X W-27 Mountain Plover Nest/Repeat Detection Ai e,v. Pre -construction Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) City of Fort Collins USFWS (per MBTA and associated orders and iegulation5,) For surface disturbing activities, surveys shall be conducted within suitable mountain plover habitat by a qualified biologist in accordance with USFWS 1999 guidelines. Mountain plover surveys shall be conducted during early courtship and territorial establishment (approximately mid -April through early July). Sites shall be surveyed three times between the April 10 and July 10 period, with each survey separated by at least 14 days All active mountain plover nests must be flagged and preclude construction within 300 feet of active nest sites until young are hatched and independent of nest (April 1 to August 15). Limit speed within 0.5 mile of nesting areas to 25 mph or less from March 15 to July 31. Work schedules and shift changes shall be set to avoid periods of 30 minutes before and after sunrise and sunset in June and July No human encroachment shall occur within 0.25 mile of an active mountain plover nest from April 1 to May 15. No surface occupancy shall occur within 300 feet of active mountain plover nest sites until young are hatched and independent of the nest The same protections will be accorded to long -billed curlew nests, if present See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Des4n Report, page 24 NEER Engineering (ay of Fort t c,llir;, X W-28 Mule Deer Severe and Critical Winter Range Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) No human activity from 3.00 pm to 10:00 am from December 1 through April 15. Consultation with CPW on the need for seasonal restrictions regarding construction in big game winter habitat and fawning areas shalt be required. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X W-29 Mule Deer Severe and Critical Winter Range Post -Construction CPW Actions to Minimize Adverse Impacts to Wildlife Resources 2016 The operator agrees to replace any permanently impacted, disturbed, or altered mule deer critical elk winter range or elk winter concentration area habitats by enhancing CPW-identified marginal sagebrush steppe communities (sagebrush and mountain shrub) and grassland within or immediately adjacent to mapped habitat. Mule deer habitats will be reclaimed with CPW- identified native shrubs, grasses, and forbs appropriate to the ecological site disturbed. The use of aggressive CPW-identified non-native grasses and shrubs will be precluded in mule deer habitat restoration NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins X W-30 Northern Leopard Frog Pre -Construction Construction Ener b Des n Re ort (2013) Conduct wetland surveys and delineation, as necessary. Limited surface occupancy from 300 to 600 feet from the legal edge of wetlands. Site Project at least 100 feet from the wetland edge. No surface occupancy from 0 to 300 foot buffer from the legal edge of wetlands. If a northern leopard frog is identified during wetland surveys, then a spatial buffer of 300 to 600 feet from the edge of wetlands will be required. See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, a 24. NEER Engineering X W 31 Prairie Falcon Nest Pre -Construction Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) City of Fort Collins USFWS (per MBTA and associated orders and re ulations) Conduct pre -construction nest surveys. No surface occupancy (beyond that which has historically occurred in the area) within 0.5 mile of any active or historic prairie falcon nest sites. No human disturbance or construction activity within 0.5 mile from any active nest site from March 15 through July 31 See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, page 24 NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins X W-32 Pronghorn Winter Concentration Area Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) CPW No human disturbance or construction activity within winter concentration areas west of I-25 from January 1 through March 31. Consultation with CPW on the need for seasonal restrictions regarding construction in big game winter habitat and fawning areas shall be required. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor E-19 Avoidance Conservation Measure Identifier Resource Phase Required By (Source) Measure Responsibility W-33 Pronghorn Post -Construction CPW Actions to Minimize Adverse Impacts to Wildlife Resources 2016 Pronghorn habitats will be reclaimed / restored with native shrubs, grasses and forbs identified by CPW that contribute to optimal pronghorn habitat and other wildlife appropriate to the ecological site. The use of CPW-identified aggressive non-native grasses and shrubs will be precluded in pronghorn habitat reclamation. Locally collected seed will be used for reseeding when specified by CPW NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins X W-34 Reptiles and Amphibians Pre -Construction Construction CPW Best Management Practices for Wind Farm Development 2013 Identify critical reptile and amphibian habitat, induding escarpments, ephemeral ponds, and wetlands, and avoid during construction and when siting infrastructure. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins X Swainson's Hawk Pre -Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) City of Fort Collins USFWS (per MBTA and associated orders and Conduct pre -construction nest surveys. No human disturbance or construction activity within 0.25 mile from active Swainson's Hawk nests from April 1 through July 15. No surface occupancy (beyond that which has historically occurred in the area) within 0.25 mile of any active or historic Swainson's Hawk nest sites. See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, NEER Engineering Construction Contractor W-35 Nest Construction regulations) page 24. City of Fort Collins X W-36 Swift Fox Den Sites Pre -Construction Construction City of Fort Collins 2018 CPW 2016 CPW Best Management Practices for Wind Farm Development 2013 A survey for swift fox den sites in CPW-identified suitable habitat shall be conducted prior to new construction between March 15 and June 15. This avoidance period should typically be sufficient to protect swift fox, but a visit from a qualified biologist will be required to confirm that the young are no longer dependent on the den. tf construction must occur within 0.25 mile of an active swift fox den, it will be preduded when den -dependent young are present. Identify and avoid all maternal swift fox den sites. Swift fox are present year-round, breed during December, and raise their young into the next fall. Any disturbance or destruction of dens from December 15th through August 15th would be detrimental to this species. It is recommended that swift fox surveys include daylight searches for den areas and nighttime spotlight searches during August and September. limit vehicle speeds to 25 mph or less to minimize mortality from vehicle collisions. City of Fort Collins X W-37 Western Burrowing Owl Nest Pre -Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) CPW (per Wildlife Action Plan) City of Fort Collins USFWS (per MBTA and associated orders and regulations) Survey active and inactive prairie dog colonies for presence of burrowing owls when construction will occur between March 1 and October 31. Follow recommended CPW survey protocol and actions to protect nesting burrowing owls City of Fort Collins X W-38 Wildlife, General Pre -Construction CPW Best Management Practices for Wind Farm Development 2013 In selecting sites for construction, focus on options that avoid critical wildlife habitats, over the use of mitigation strategies. Areas that exhibit high levels of wildlife use within this project area would benefit greatly by not placing facility infrastructure, including transmission lines, adjacent to or over such areas. Locally, micro -siting of infrastructure might be effective in minimizing losses to habitat and wildlife. If all options for avoiding impacts are taken and prove insufficient, then mitigation strategies should be identified and implemented. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins X W-39 Wildlife, General Pre -Construction Construction Post -Construction CPW Best Management Practices for Wind Farm Development 2013 Provide CPW with pre -construction and post -construction reports with all forms of raw data collected at onset, during, and post construction surveys. It is recommended that all research data (observed, written, recorded, GPS files, etc.) collected be accessible and provided to CPW's District Wildlife Managers and biologists in a timely manner NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins _ X W-40 Wildlife, General Construction Post -Construction CPW Best Management Practices for Wind Farm Development 2013 _ During construction and operations, limit vehicle speeds to 25 mph on project roads. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor E-20 Avoidance Conservation Measure Identifier Resource Phase Required By (Source) Measure Responsibility X W-41 Wildlife, General Construction Post -Construction CPW Best Management Practices for Wind Farm Development 2013 During operations, limit on -site visit frequency and duration by service personnel, especially during critical nesting time, to minimize impacts to wildlife. Educate personnel on wildlife issues, such as where species might be found, and at what time of day During the operational phase, train staff in documenting wildlife mortalities and notifying local wildlife officials in a timely manner NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X BR -42 Wildlife, General Pre -Construction Post -Construction CPW Best Management Practices for Wind Farm Development 2013 Develop long-term decommissioning and reclamation plans in the event that it is decided to decommission any infrastructure of the facility. Decommissioning plans should include (but not limited to) timing of decommissioning individual or project wide infrastructure and plans to reclaim areas back to pre -construction conditions. NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins x W-43 Wildlife, General Pre -Construction Construction CPW Best Management Practices for Wind Farm Development 2013 We recommend that sensitive wildlife species and critical habitat features be identified and buffered when considering infrastructure placement and operation, especially during critical nesting periods. We suggest that as more detailed planning occurs, you continue to contact CPW r(Tr esentatives to determine specific sensitive areas for each of these species - NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins X WQ-1 Creeks and Streams. Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) BMPs shall be implemented to prevent erosion, sedimentation, and any leakage of pollution or hazardous materials into perennial and ephemeral creeks and streams. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor x WQ-2 Water Quality and Erosion Pre -Construction i City of Fort Collins An Erosion Control Plan shall be developed prior to the start of construction This plan shall comply with the City's Storm Drainage Design Criteria and Construction Standards. The erosion control plan shall be approved and signed by the City NEER Engineering City of Fort Collins X WQ-3 Water Quality and Erosion Pre -Construction City of Fort Collins All erosion control measures shall be in place and approved by a City of Fort Collins representative prior to any construction. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins X WQ-4 Creeks and Streams Pre -Construction Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) No surface occupancy shall occur within 100 feet from the high water mark of perennial and ephemeral creeks and streams The Project areas shall be sited at least 100 feet from the high water mark of perennial and ephemeral creeks and streams. See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, page 24 NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X WO -5 Water Quality and Erosion Construction City of Fort Collins Waste waters from construction operations and dewatering work for structure foundations or earthwork operations adjacent to, or encroaching on, streams or water courses shall not be performed without prior approval by appropriate State agencies. Water and eroded materials shall be prevented from entering the streams or watercourses by constructing intercepting ditches, bypass channels, barriers, settling ponds, or other approved methods. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor State Agencies X WQ-6 Seeps and Springs Construction Post -Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) BMPs shall be implemented and monitoring shall be conducted for erosion control measures to ensure effectiveness NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X WQ-7 Water Quality and Erosion Construction City of Fort Collins Excavated material or other construction materials shall not be stockpiled or deposited near or on stream banks, lake shorelines, or other water course perimeters where they can be washed away by high water or storm runoff or can in any way encroach upon the water source itself. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X WQ-8 Seeps and Springs Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) BMPs shall be implemented to prevent erosion, sedimentation, and any leakage of pollution or hazardous materials into seeps and springs. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X WQ-9 Seeps and Springs Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) No surface occupancy shall occur from 0 to 300 feet from mapped seeps and springs. See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, page 24. NEER Engineering Construction Contractor X WQ-10 Seeps and Springs Pre -Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) limit surface occupancy 300 to 600 feet from any seeps or springs. See definitions of Surface Occupancy in the Energy by Design Report, page 24. NEt It t ngineering Construction Contr<u iur E-21 Conservation Avoidance Measure Identifier X WQ-11 Resource Seeps and Springs Phase Pre -Construction Required By (Source) Energy by Design Report (2013) Conduct surveys for seeps and springs. Measure Responsibility City of Fort Collins NEER Engineering Construction Contractor City of Fort Collins x WQ-12 Creeks and Streams Construction Post -Construction Energy by Design Report (2013) BMPs shall be implemented and monitoring shall be conducted for erosion control measures to ensure effectiveness. E-22 The visibility and potential visual contrasts associated with electric transmission facilities are dependent on complex interactions of a variety of visibility factors: landforms. vegetationand existing development: viewer characteristics: lighting: atmospheric conditions: viewing geometry (the spatial relationship between the viewer and transmission line): the visual characteristics of the transmission line: the visual backdrop of the transmission line (e.g. sky. ground. or vegetation): and the distance between the viewer and the transmission. The primary mitigating factors are screening and distance (as terrain screening and distance increases. the visual impact decreases). The Project was sited to maximize screening and viewing distances from two viewing platforms: 1-25 and trails in Soapstone Natural Area. When viewed from 1-25. the Preferred Route is located west of some rolling foothills and the Burlington Northern Railroad. which serves to screen all or the bottom one-third of many transmission structures. The Preferred Route was also sited to balance the distance between 1-25 and Soapstone Natural Area As shown on the photopoint map. several photos were taken from 1-25 and the Soapstone Natural Area. Photos are available upon request. One photographic simulation was prepared from 1-25 at Natural Fort in Weld County. viewing the Project to the west in Larimer County. A second series of photos from the Plover Trail in Soapstone Natural Area were taken to analyze the mitigating effect of distance Existing 230kV double -circuit steel monopole structures at Rawhide Energy Station are not identifiable from the Plover Trail viewpoint, 6.5 miles away. Therefore a photographic simulation of the Project was prepared from the Plover Trail because of software and resolution limitations. A systematic study of visibility of existing high voltage transmission lines in real landscape settings was conducted by Argonne National Laboratory and the Bureau of Land Management (Sullivan 2014). The researchers evaluated visual contrasts of 11 transmission facilities from 123 observation locations in a variety of lighting and weather conditions. The study found that skylined 230 -kV H -frame tower facilities (towers that are backdropped by the sky) were observed at distances up to 8 miles. Facilities with 230 -kV H -frame towers were judged to be noticeable to casual observers at distances of up to 3.5 miles They were judged to strongly attract visual attention at distances of up to 1.5 miles. Findings from this study were used to inform the visual impacts of the Project However. limitations of applying this study's findings to the Project include 1) visual differences in visual weight would be reduced with the Projects single -circuit monopole design compared to H -frame tower facilities in the study. and 2) portions of the Project will be skylined from 1-25 but the Project will not be skylined from Soapstone Natural Area views A viewshed analysis of the Preferred Route was conducted using a structure height of 100 feet. a 10 -meter digital elevation model, and a viewer's eye -level height of 5 feet. The viewshed analysis shows the viewpoints where one mile. two miles. or more than two miles of the Preferred Route would be visible. Therefore. distance zones used for visual analysis and shown on the photopoint map are as follows • Foreground. 0 to 1.5 miles. the area where the Project could attract strong visual attention. F-1 • Middleground, 1.5 to 3.5 miles. the area where the Project could be noticeable to casual observers. • Background. 3.5 miles to 6.5 miles, the area where the Project could be observed but not be noticeable. The outer bounds of visibility for a single -circuit 230kV transmission line is assumed to be 6.5 miles based on field observations from the Plover Trail to existing 230kV double -circuit monopole structures near Rawhide Energy Station. Beyond 6.5 miles, the facilities would not likely be identifiable. ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY Roundhouse Renewable Energy Lanmer County 1041 Permit Application Existing Conditions: View from Natural Fort Structures Type Material Height Distance Steel Monopole Corten Steel 125" Shown Approximately 9 miles to nearest Photo Metadata Latitude Longitude Coord Sys Direction. Date Taken Time Taken Camera Lens Focal Length Sensor 40 57 21 7Th 104' 55' 24 38"W NAD 1983 UTM 13N West -Northwest 06/29/2018 149pm Canon T5 Canon EF-S 18-55mm 24mm APS-C For true to life scale, reproduce simulation on I 1-x17' paper and view at a distance of 16 25' 2 Modeled Conditions: View from Natural Fort SOAPSTONE PRAIRIE NATURAL AREA PHOTOPOINT AND VIEWSHED ANALYSIS MAP ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT Progett Components avee..a'new Item Ain t*iunq Readies a 't.on h} an -rn — 4 -.ay .e.c.ar Anon :.fro ).m+. • C1 ✓•OS :WO Yell 1V Altos, ioe. Vienne! Analysis as d Roue Visible c,om Coven Location i AI s .. 0 -or •n•a.t�.etrr , x.cen. r_. 'a an n• •�Mt•V1� . (O. -• 10na./.Cr.7 r ] VY teem ammo s 3s.'•el e.eee•IV•)• e. y, Existing Transmission (voltage) •-• . -Q aery "eT.ew •—•• leg M%Y rn.e.e. I :an •• arxl. NExTera ENLESigya. RESOURCES Roundhouse Reconnaissance Survey Summary Meadow Springs Ranch, Larimer and Weld Counties, Colorado October 30, 2018 Submitted by Logan Simpson 213 Linden Street. Suite 300 Fort Collins. Colorado 80524 itt LOGANSIMPSON GUIDING RESPONSIBLE CHANGE Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Table of Contents Introduction 1 Methods 1 Results 3 Conclusions 3 List of Tables Table 1 Observations Displayed on Figures 1 and 2 7 Table 2 Wildlife Species Observed in the Siting Area 11 List of Figures Figure 1 Observations in the Siting Area 5 Figure 2 Observations along Un-named Drainage in the Siting Area 6 Figure 3 Photograph Points in the Siting Area 15 Figure 4 Environmental, Cultural, and Residential Considerations in the Northern Portion of the Project Area 16 Figure 5 Environmental, Cultural, and Residential Considerations in the Southern Portion of the Project Area 17 Figure 6 Opportunities and Constraints, Northern Portion of the Project Area 18 Figure 7 Opportunities and Constraints, Southern Portion of the Project Area 19 Figure 8 Photograph Locations for Micrositing Field Reconnaissance Trip 20 October 2018 ii Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Appendices Appendix A - Representative Photographs for Field Reconnaissance Surveys Appendix B - Representative Photographs for the Micrositing Field Reconnaissance Trip October 2018 iii Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Introduction Roundhouse Renewable Energy (RHRE) proposes to construct and operate a transmission line to connect the proposed Roundhouse Wind Farm in southeast Wyoming to the Rawhide Energy Station (Rawhide) in Larimer County. Colorado. The transmission line would extend for approximately 13 miles and cross portions of both Larimer and Weld Counties. Most of this distance would occur on land owned by the City of Fort Collins. Several small areas of state land and private lands would also be traversed. A field reconnaissance survey was conducted in order to verify desktop data and identify additional features and resources to inform the siting of alternative transmission line routes. In addition. a micro -siting field reconnaissance trip was conducted and the results are incorporated into this report. The purpose of the micrositing field reconnaissance trip was to provide support to NextEra Energy in micrositing transmission structures along the proposed transmission line right-of-way (ROW). in Colorado 1.1 Methods The field reconnaissance survey was conducted on three separate days. On June 7. 2018 the survey team was onsite from 1:00 to 6:00 pm and concentrated on the southern portion of the Siting Area. On June 13, 2018 the survey team was onsite from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and concentrated on the northern portion of the Siting Area. The weather was hot (80's and 90 s). dry. and the wind was calm (<10 mph) on both days. The survey team consisted of Tom Keith. principal in charge of Project siting. and Julie Capp. Certified Wildlife Biologist and Audubon Master Birder (Colorado). On June 26. 2018 a survey team consisting of Julie Capp and Carson Keller. GIS and natural resource specialist, was onsite from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. The weather was hot (90 s). dry. and the wind speed was approximately 15 mph. The survey teams drove along accessible roads in the Siting Area. County Road 5 (CR-5). County Road 92 (CR-92). old U.S. Highway (Hwy) 87, and accessible two -track roads provided access to view areas traversed by the alternative routes. Data for known and new raptor nests, black -tailed prairie dog colonies. cultural sites. wetland and waterbody features, and other land uses was entered on hard copy field maps. This data was obtained from a variety of sources. including: • City of Fort Collins (Natural Areas): • Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW): • Digitized data from aerial imagery (ESRI, USDA-NAIP, Google): • Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (OAHP): • State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO): • U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS): and • U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The survey teams attempted to confirm desktop data that could be viewed from accessible roads. including residences. black -tailed prairie dog colonies. wetlands and waterbodies and raptor nests. Additional features were photographed and noted on field maps. Photographs with associated GPS coordinates were taken of the landscape and other features at appropriate locations Field notes were documented on hard -copy maps. On June 26. the team also conducted pedestrian surveys to investigate previously documented raptor nests and to search for October 2018 1 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary any additional raptor nests. Appendix A presents representative photographs from the field reconnaissance survey. The complete photographic log can be provided upon request_ The micro -siting field reconnaissance trip was conducted on September 25. 2018. The micrositing team (team) consisted Ryan Kelly (NextEra), Chris Carda and Andrew Lovato (Westwood). Jeremy Call and Julie Capp (Logan Simpson). and Meagan Jones (AECOM). The temperature ranged from the mid 40's to mid -60's with clear skies and a variable wind speed (5 to 10 mph). The team was onsite from 7:00am to 4:30pm. The team convened at Rawhide Energy Station at 7:00am for a safety orientation. Following the orientation. the team mobilized to the proposed transmission line ROW. The reconnaissance began at the southern end of the ROW. near the Rawhide Substation and proceeded north to evaluate structure locations in the Colorado portion of the transmission line. A separate micrositing reconnaissance trip was planned for the following day (September 26) to evaluate the Wyoming portion of the proposed transmission line ROW. The team used two ATVs to traverse the ROW. NextEra and Westwood engineers utilized iPads to navigate to and document proposed structure locations. These locations were either confirmed as suitable or new structure locations were determined in the field. Logan Simpson provided support to NextEra staff and contractors with the following types of information: • Wetland. floodplain, and drainage features: • Landowners: • Land uses. • Raptor nests and avian use: • Black -tailed prairie dog colonies. including black -footed ferret occurrence information: • Big game winter ranges: • Habitat fragmentation considerations; • Access: • Existing disturbance. including pipeline locations and historic disturbance associated with the railroad: and • Identification of two previously undocumented cultural sites for further evaluation. Logan Simpson provided hard copy maps to the team. which displayed resource considerations. residences. existing infrastructure and ROWs. and opportunities and constraints Figure 4 presents the existing infrastructure. resource considerations. and existing corridors for the northern portion of the project area and Figure 5 presents these features for the southern portion. Figures 6 and 7 present opportunities and constraints for the northern and southern portions of the project area. respectively Photographs were taken at important observation points with a Canon camera and are included in Appendix B. The complete photographic log can be provided upon request Figure 8 presents the locations where photographs were taken. Nikon 10.5 X 45 binoculars were used for observation. October 2018 2 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Results The survey teams documented field conditions and features along four potential alternative routes. including portions of CR-5. the alignment of the old U.S. Hwy 87. both sides of the railroad. and along the county line north from its intersection with CR-5. A total of 213 data points and photographs were collected. Figure 1 presents the Siting Area and features that were documented during the survey Table 1 presents the associated identification and notes for each point. Table 2 presents wildlife species noted incidentally during the survey. The micrositing team evaluated the proposed ROW. as received on September 23. 2018 This alignment varies from the alignment of Alternative 2B. as evaluated in the final Siting Study and the draft Larimer and Weld County 1041 permits (Figure 1). Alternative 2B. as originally proposed. continues north to the Wyoming state line from a point of divergence where the Burlington Northern Railroad begins to turn to the east. The alternative alignment evaluated during this micrositing reconnaissance trip makes a 90 degree turn to the northwest from this point of divergence. This proposed alignment traverses approximately 1 mile of shortgrass prairie northwest through Meadow Springs Ranch to the Wyoming state line. This portion of the proposed ROW is within the Siting Area. but has not yet been evaluated relative to opportunities and constraints. A total of 89 structure locations in Colorado were evaluated and adjusted. if necessary Conclusions In general, grassland health appeared to be greater in the northern portion of the Siting Area than in the south The corridor along the railroad is disturbed at many locations. including areas with parallel linear disturbances. such as distribution lines and fences. CR-5 also parallels the railroad for the southern portion of its length through the Siting Area. In those areas immediately adjacent to the railroad that could be readily observed. no wetlands or riparian areas with trees were identified. The north to south alternative route along the county line traverses a relatively intact landscape of mixed grass prairie that has the least amount of habitat disturbances. Private residences and other buildings are more prevalent in the southern portion of the Siting Area. particularly in the vicinity of CR-92. Several pipelines and transmission lines traverse the siting area and are presented on Figure 1. The railroad is an active main line throughout the Siting Area. Cattle are grazed in several areas. including much of Meadow Springs Ranch. The City of Fort Collins operates a biosolids processing facility on Meadow Springs Ranch at a location near the railroad and approximately two miles north of CR-92. Lone Tree Creek. in the northeastern portion of the siting area, is the most extensive wetlands/riparian complex in the siting area: however. smaller areas are located along several intermittent and unnamed drainages. Several wetland areas are crossed by the old U.S. Hwy 87 alignment. including two unnamed drainages east of the biosolids facility (Figure 2). Known cultural sites are most prevalent along the railroad. particularly in the southern portion of the Siting Area. However. much of the Siting Area has not been surveyed for cultural resources. October 2018 3 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Although portions of Meadow Springs Ranch have been surveyed. a comprehensive raptor nest survey has not been completed for the overall Siting Area. In this setting. the majority of raptor nests would be expected to occur in areas with mature trees and black -tailed prairie dog colonies. Trees suitable for raptor nesting are present in riparian areas along some intermittent streams and drainages. October 2018 4 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary • Feta Notes O Photo Posits G (soling Substation a.� Roule ARemattvas fasting 2J01tV Transtn.sston Eutaw 345kV trenvnason OM US Hpttway 87 Local Roads —4— Haaroaa fle Sling Area Stream t_ ' Y1Met Body loomed In Map E )(tent ZS t soot Or Oran' ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT Field Survey Roundhouse Renewable Energy Figure 1 Observations in the Siting Area October 2018 5 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary i 1 M I et aM*♦aOm el el • 1 PROJECT LOCATION A; 1 • Feld Notes OPhoto Point.. e Route --- Old US H;yhwey Local Roads Raaroad 1 0.531 ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT Field Survey (Zoomed In) Roundhouse Renewable Energy Figure 2 Observations along Un-named Drainage in the Siting Area October 2018 6 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Table 1 Observations Displayed on Figures 1 and 2 oint Notes Nest Prairie Dog Colony Observation Observed Land Uses 1 Loafing shed with barn swallow colony Active colony Agricultural building 2 Cattle shed with solar panel along 2 -track road Agricultural building 3 Railroad shed Industrial building 4 Railroad shed Industrial building 5 Small railroad shed and stock tank Industrial building 6 Large railroad shed Industrial building 7 Residence with moderate trees Residence 8 Large petroleum tanks Industrial building 9 Residence Residence 10 Round Butte Valley Ranch Residence 11 Communication tower Communication facility 12 Residence Residence 13 Residence Residence 14 Residence Residence 15 Residence with moderate trees Residence 16 Residence Residence 17 Residence Residence 18 Residence with significant trees Residence 19 Residence with small trees - newer Residence 20 Gate to Meadow Springs Ranch - several photographs Landmark 21 Biosolids Facility Industrial building 22 Residence Residence 23 Probably a compressor station within 300 -foot RR buffer Industrial building 24 Building east of 1-25 Agricultural building 25 Gas processing plant east of 1-25 Industrial building 26 Locked gate to communications tower Landmark 27 Historic building foundations Cultural 28 Good quality, intact prairie grassland Habitat 29 Natural Fort (former rest area) Cultural 30 Culvert/wetland Wetland October 2018 7 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Table 1 Observations Displayed on Figures 1 and 2 Point Notes Nest Prairie Dog Colony Observation Observed Land Uses 31 Spring Creek has a defined channel and wetland vegetation (sedge). Wetland, landmark 32 Cultural site - railroad/bridge Cultural 33 Cultural site - railroad/bridge Cultural 34 Cultural site - open camp Cultural 35 Cultural site - open camp Cultural 36 Cultural site - farming/ranching Cultural 37 Cultural site - railroad Cultural 38 Cultural site - trail/road (U.S. 87) Cultural 39 Black -tailed prairie dog colony reported in this area. No colony was visible from road. Tall vegetation and noxious weeds were present. Colony not visible from road 40 Active black -tailed prairie dog colony, burrowing owl observed Active colony 41 Black -tailed prairie dog colony reported in this area. No colony was visible from road. Colony not visible from road 42 Black -tailed prairie dog colony - old holes present, sparsely occupied on west side of road, far from the road. Noxious weeds present Sparsely occupied 43 Black -tailed prairie dog colony reported in this area. No colony was visible from road, noxious weeds present Colony not visible from road 44 Black -tailed prairie dog colony - No colony was visible from road, noxious weeds present Colony not visible from road 45 Black -tailed prairie dog colony - No colony was visible from road, noxious weeds present Colony not visible from road 46 Active black -tailed prairie dog colony, many prairie dogs Active colony 47 No wetland or riparian vegetation Habitat 48 Pipeline Pipeline 49 No bed, bank, or wetlands Wetland 50 Distribution line (East/West) Distribution line 51 Active black -tailed prairie dog colony Active colony October 2018 8 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Table 1 Observations Displayed on Figures 1 and 2 Point Notes Nest Prairie Dog Colony Observation Observed Land Uses 52 From topographic map - dry, no bed, bank, wetland, riparian vegetation Wetland 53 Stock tank Stock tank 54 Wetland, standing water Wetland 55 Historic trash scatter Cultural 56 Old collapsed loafing shed Agricultural building 57 Large cottonwood Habitat 58 Distribution line (EasUWest) Distribution line 59 Solar stock tank Stock tank 60 Riparian area with cottonwoods, doesn't extend to RR Habitat 61 Wetland Wetland 62 Wetland Wetland 63 Big sand face Landscape 64 Inactive raptor nest Inactive Habitat 65 Common raven whitewash on bridge Habitat 66 Active common raven nest under railroad bridge, 3 birds present Active Habitat 67 Potential nest holes in bank Inactive Habitat 68 Active mourning dove nest with 2 eggs Active Habitat 69 Inactive nest Inactive Habitat 70 Possible American kestrel nest, 2 adults observed Possible Habitat 71 Inactive raptor nest Inactive Habitat 72 Potential cavity nest Inactive Habitat 73 Barn owl pellets under bridge No nest Habitat 74 Western kingbird nest under bridge Active Habitat 75 Bird house Inactive Habitat 76 Potential nesting cavities Inactive Habitat 77 Inactive raptor nest Inactive Habitat 78 Mourning dove nest with 1 egg and 1 chick Active Habitat 79 Lark sparrow nest with 4 eggs and 1 chick Active Habitat 80 Barn owl observation, flew from under bridge No nest Habitat 81 Great horned owl flushed from shed Habitat October 2018 9 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Table 1 Observations Displayed on Figures 1 and 2 Point Notes Nest Prairie Dog Colony Observation Observed Land Uses 82 Active black -tailed prairie dog colony Active Colony Habitat 83 Say's phoebe observation; 2 adults and 1 juvenile Habitat 84 Northern harrier observation, harassed by cliff swallows Habitat 85 Juvenile brown thrasher and adult (juvenile could not fly) Active nest in box by road Habitat 86 Northern mockingbird observations; probably nesting Habitat 87 2 female Bullock's oriole observations Habitat 88 2 common nighthawk observations; probably nesting Habitat 89 Wetland with cattails and standing water Habitat 90 Say's phoebe and rock pigeons observed nesting in shed Active Habitat 91 2 brown -headed cowbirds observed Habitat 92 1 American crow observed near Rawhide Habitat 93 1 adult golden eagle observed foraging near Rawhide Habitat 94 2 American kestrels observed near Rawhide Habitat 95 Bird diverters/deterrents on transmission lines Transmission line 96 Active black -tailed praise dog colony; no burrowing owls observed Active Colony Habitat 97 Active Say's phoebe nest in structure; 2 adults present Active Habitat 98 U.S. 87 bridge crosses a potential wetland. Wetland October 2018 10 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Table 2 Wildlife Species Observed in the Siting Area Common Name Scientific Name Relative Abundance Notes Mammals Pronghorn Antilocapra americana Common Fawns were present with adults. Appear to be abundant throughout the siting area. Black -tailed prairie dog Cynomys ludovicianus Common Several active colonies were confirmed. Some mapped colonies were no longer active. One new colony was documented. Black -tailed jackrabbit Lepus califomicus One Observed in an old, inactive black - tailed prairie dog colony near the railroad. Desert cottontail Sylvilagus audubonii One Observed in an un-named drainage. Raccoon Procyon lotor One Observed in a cottonwood tree in an un-named drainage. Birds American kestrel Falco sparverius Four Two adults observed in un-named drainage area. Suspected nest in tree cavity. Two adults observed in the southern portion of siting area near Rawhide. American robin Turdus migratorius Several Several adults observed in un- named drainage, 1 juvenile, several old, inactive nests in trees. Barn owl Tyto a/ba One One adult flushed from under a bridge. No nest was present. Pellets were documented. Barn swallow Hirundo rustica Common Nesting colony present in loafing shed. Brown -headed cowbird Molothrus ater Four Males and females observed at Lone Tree Creek and near an old house in the southern portion of the siting area. Brown thrasher Toxostoma rufum Four One adult observed feeding young in in a nest box. Two adults and a fledgling observed in a riparian area. Bullock's oriole Icterus bullockii Two Adult females observed in un- named drainage. Burrowing owl Athene cunicularia Three Observed in black -tailed prairie dog colonies. October 2018 11 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Table 2 Wildlife Species Observed in the Siting Area ,. Common Name Scientific Name Relative Abundance Notes Cliff swallow Petrochelidon pyrrhonota Common Several old, inactive nests were present in a concrete culvert. American crow Corvus brachyrhynchos One Observed flying near Rawhide. Common nighthawk Chordeiles minor Two Two adults observed in un-named drainage, suspected nest nearby. Common raven Corvus corax Three Observed near active nest on railroad bridge. Eastern kingbird Tyrannus tyrannus One Observed near un-named drainage. Ferruginous hawk Buteo regalis One Observed flying near southern portion of siting area. Golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos One Observed flying near Rawhide. Grasshopper sparrow Ammodramus savannarum One Observed perched on fence. Great horned owl Bubo virginianus One Flushed from old house. Horned lark Eremophila alpestris Common Observed commonly near roads and in grasslands. Killdeer Charadrius vociferus One Audio identification near small wetland. Lark bunting Calamospiza melanocorys Common Observed in the southern portion of the siting area. Lark sparrow Chondestes grammacus Several Adults observed foraging in grassland. Active nest with one chick and four eggs documented near U.S. 87. Mourning dove Zenaida macroura Common Adults observed throughout siting area. One active nest with 2 eggs was documented in un-named drainage. One active nest with one squab and one egg was documented near Lone Tree Creek. Northern harrier Circus cyaneus One Female observed flying. Northern mockingbird Mimus polyglottos Several Two adults observed near un- named drainage. Suspected to nest in this area. Red-tailed hawk Buteo jamaicensis Two Observed flying and audio identification. Red -winged blackbird Agelaius phoeniceus Several Males and females observed in wetland areas. Probable active nests in wetlands. October 2018 12 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Table 2 Wildlife Species Observed in the Siting Area Common Name Scientific Name Relative Abundance Notes Rock pigeon Columba livia Several Nesting colony in old shed. Say's phoebe Sayomis saya Several Adults observed in un-named drainage. Two active nests documented in old sheds. Turkey vulture Cathartes aura One Observed soaring over siting area. Vesper sparrow Pooecetes gramineus Several Observed foraging in grassland. Suspected to nest in siting area. Western kingbird Tyrannus verticalis Several Adults observed in un-named drainage. One active nest documented under railroad bridge. Western meadowlark Sturnella neglecta Common Observed throughout siting area. Suspected to nest in siting area. Reptiles Bull snake or rattlesnake One Laying in a concrete culvert. October 2018 13 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary A total of six stick raptor nests were documented near the four alternatives by CPW and the City of Fort Collins (Figure 1) One nest was reported as a red-tailed hawk nest along Lone Tree Creek. This nest was not located or confirmed by the survey team. One nest was reported as a Swainson s hawk nest near an old unoccupied house. This nest was not located or confirmed by the survey team. Four nests were reported in the un-named drainage near the railroad bridge. One of these nests was an active common raven nest under the railroad bridge itself. Two unoccupied nests were confirmed in the riparian area east of the bridge and one nest was not located or confirmed in this location. One new. unoccupied raptor nest was documented along Lone Tree Creek. A total of 15 burrowing owl nests were documented by the City of Fort Collins and CPW in black - tailed prairie dog colonies reported as active in 2013. 2014. and 2015. Nest searches were not conducted for this species during the reconnaissance survey but three individual owls were observed in two different colonies during this survey. The following active or probable passerine nests and colonies were documented during the survey. These include: • One lark sparrow nest with one chick and four eggs in grassland: • One mourning dove nest with two eggs and one nest with one squab and one egg in trees: • One brown thrasher nest in nest box. fledgling present nearby: • Probable American kestrel nest in tree cavity: • Probable northern mockingbird nest in un-named drainage area: • Probable common nighthawk nest in un-named drainage area: • Two Say's phoebe nests in structures: • One barn swallow colony in livestock loafing shed: • One rock pigeon colony in old shed: • Red -winged blackbird colonies in wetlands: • One active western kingbird nest under bridge: and • Probable American robin nest in un-named drainage area — fledgling present nearby. October 2018 14 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Ph000 o oo Figure 3 Photograph Points in the Siting Area PROJECT LOCATION j • void Notes . - Appendu Photos O4! Photo Pants o El 'Ming Suhstahon Route Agernatrves tares E,rxmq 230kv Transmnson Es lung 345W Transmission Oki US Highway 87 Local Roads Railroad San; Area r.' Water Body ROUNDHOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT Appendix Photo Points Roundhouse Renewable Energy October 2018 15 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Figure 4 Environmental, Cultural, and Residential Considerations in the Northern Portion of the Project Area October 2018 16 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary lev \gyp- Chty.r�� Off T� I Exiting i:aatu»s — e iitlt,t ..—. seen; Itit Teems, — ...el.-, ...via IP tg'aq r. Rowe* Rasoucn a.. ,t., •e .w.. _ woe -twnOWN 1O1•41 ;Ann N.he ail •, •'• oI---, `aanny onaiS.tAne-. Q :Ma sets.:t eb . Meel�ca e eytt n t e .aft /O .IS i1neY.t tree W! AMISS 4.1•• w ?VI w e talen a..t aspCad .— hr on yYten ®A t I.r A ON :Mien H. !cn arx+n Us franc del &t IMO e.r.s Lae(I lie' OhmsMinga lase nee ' to Ws . AS . O ewe C... Mn.VIEY iVa as Aware.. ner Ca*Me,_.. AignitiniCalildlin i Pitsmin Sate i T.eerat. , rr 'Sat zte any 11 et $' I i1 l • .0 .a o-.... II SW. V ! R lSCHOu8E RENEWABLE • r ENERGY PROJECT ii - Held Mop (South) Figure 5 Environmental, Cultural, and Residential Considerations in the Southern Portion of the Project Area October 2018 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Figure 6 Opportunities and Constraints. Northern Portion of the Project Area October 2018 18 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary .11,.......1C'WS ntts - I.\\\\\ wurwr S- ♦ 1 O beeWIRES. a ,airs pia tin : a* r a.nuaa. •a* fie. '.M' '.... .a. — .,.... — )Jt t+Pn Inv 0 >... ia.r n Rr agar. — ..r al, ■V, Nam.. - tx el Rase ens le ^iota `� ...CNN >rale A %lean Mill lnt.fw, (34 taw. Coda knot• 0..aa,n. a'a.Mfaoc.Or,s.. .aip.duf a -.rano Coe V' VL, - - lbw SOS •v u Q . . u 1 tc ROUNONOUSE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT F eld Mop (South) Figure 7 Opportunities and Constraints, Southern Portion of the Project Area October 2018 19 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary 'AO e' to azsgzhcja Photo. °hcto Points ,Referenced in Appendix A; G ay la'asib • • CG121 • `, Photo. m • to= FAIL > fr4 Pla$4":4, a4Vol' oS tt bt;:_Mtttakti O O Existing Substation al_P.outes ,ungArea • • :t ,,J ,zr:-.r 7-insnrssion Eiisung345kv Tr3nsmasson Interstate Lo:al Roads Old US Highway 87 I Railroad F.x 0' A N_) PXJ e ra ENERGY C RESOURCES Micrositing Reconnaissance Photos Figure 8 Photograph Locations for Micrositing Field Reconnaissance Trip October 2018 20 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Appendix A: Representative Photographs for Field Reconnaissance Surveys I •{yI r tQ r. ti. . . •' nip. . !. , _ _ gt.; at- ' ._ Photograph 1: Reclaimed Gas Pipeline - West Photograph 2: Grassland - North Photograph 3: Two Track Road - South Photograph 4: Secondary Agriculture Bldg - NE .. - 1 , , • I r r " .r t r . . • . • y {. :; r S v 1 •. - � � ., . `' . . -r e • 0, Y .6 7S E . 14 'tea ' . b. .4 -. r) -to;- 1 e ' ` ♦, • , .Y ''r �. .. -• _ J w ,.• a,f .,Y. Photograph 5 Two Track Road - South Photograph 6: Inactive Raptor Nest October 2018 A-1 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary r IMOry *01 7. C. 1 .I 4 r- • ___ ,••mar• - Photograph 13: Riparian Area - Southwest Photograph 14: Bridge With Roosting Barn Owl •' -. d x.. . t. - Photograph 15: Distribution Line - East Photograph 16: Fence and Grassland - SW • a �- •_ <,_ `• .. Photograph 17: Grassland With Wetland - NE Photograph 18: CR-5 at Gate - South October 2018 A-3 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Photograph 19: Railroad - Northeast Photograph 20: Railroad and CR-5 - Northeast October 2018 A-4 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Appendix B: Representative Photographs -Micrositing Field Reconnaissance Trip Photograph 1: Rawhide - West Photograph 2: Rawhide Substation - NW . - . - s. _.+.S..... __ . . Photograph 3: ROW - Northwest Photograph 4: Historic Foundation - SW Photograph 5: County Road 5 - North Photograph 6: Railroad - Southeast October 2018 B-1 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Photograph 7: CR-5 Intersection with Railroad - North Photograph 9: Cultural Site - Northeast Photograph 11: Cultural Site Photograph 8: County Road 5 - North Photograph 10: Cultural Site Photograph 12: Historic Landfill October 2018 B-2 Photograph 13: Historic Mound Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Photograph 14: CR-5 Southwest to Rawhide Photograph 15: CR-5 Southwest to Rawhide Photograph 16: Rawhide - Southwest Photograph 17: County Road 5 - Southwest Photograph 18: County Road 5 - West October 2018 B-3 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Photograph 21: Pipeline ROW - Northeast Photograph 19: County Road 5 - West Photograph 23: Drainage Near RR Bridge - NE Photograph 20: Biosolids Facility - West Photograph 22: Drainage Near RR Bridge - NE .. c .R h.._,.�.....e... Photograph 24: Telegraph Pole October 2018 B-4 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary - • 1- �- tai c•s <. - - 4.._ Jd • 41 r.. s. P'. f- V Photograph 25: Telegraph Pole Photograph 26: ROW - Northwest a • f _r iiits�aao4_ _s - i r s ,.3ra • Photograph 27: Drainage - Northwest Photograph 28: Railroad and Drainage - Southeast ._ irr IF Photograph 29: Railroad and Drainage - SE Photograph 30: ROW — Northeast October 2018 6-5 Photograph 33: ROW - Northwest Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Photograph 31: ROW - Northeast Photograph 32: ROW - Northwest Photograph 34: ROW - Northwest Photograph 35: ROW - Northeast Photograph 36: ROW - Southeast October 2018 B-6 Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line Project Siting Survey Summary Photograph 37: ROW - Southwest Photograph 38: ROW - Northwest Photograph 39: ROW - Northwest Photograph 40: Pipeline and Transmission Line -NW Photograph 41: Pipeline Marker Photograph 42: All -Terrain Vehicle October 2018 Si DATE: November 27, 2018 STAFF: Jason Graham, Water Reclamation/Biosolids Manager Carol Webb, Deputy Directory, Utilities Daylan Figgs, Senior Environmental Planner WORK SESSION ITEM City Council SUBJECT FOR DISCUSSION Round House Renewable Project - Transmission Line on Meadow Springs Ranch EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The purpose of this item is to provide a project overview of the Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project including a review of the draft mitigation package related to impacts associated with the requested easement on Meadow Springs Ranch (MSR). Platte River Power Authority (PRPA) plans to deliver 150 megawatts (MW) of new wind power to its owner -cities of Fort Collins, Loveland, Longmont and Estes Park. The Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project will include an above -ground 230 -kilovolt (kV) transmission line from wind turbines in Wyoming to Platte River's Rawhide Energy Station. Approximately nine miles of the transmission line is proposed to be located on City -owned Meadow Springs Ranch (MSR). GENERAL DIRECTION SOUGHT AND SPECIFIC QUESTIONS TO BE ANSWERED What additional information does Council need to determine whether or not to grant a transmission line easement on MSR as part of the Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project? BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION MSR is a nearly unfragmented, intact shortgrass prairie that supports a diverse assemblage of native plant and wildlife species that are considered rare or imperiled. Among these are species listed as either threatened or endangered at both the State and Federal level. MSR also plays a critical role in the City's resource recovery program and effectively balances the regulatory requirements of resource recovery with the equally important goal of protecting the cultural and environmental qualities of the Laramie Foothills. Last, MSR is an active cattle ranch; again, carefully managed to avoid conflicts with the other important functions. Platte River Power Authority (PRPA) purchased wind energy from a wind farm located in Wyoming. PRPA and the four communities it serves are committed to delivering a diversified energy portfolio to its rate payers. This project will add 150 MW of wind energy to this portfolio. The City of Fort Collins has established Climate Action Plan goals to reduce our carbon emissions by 20% by 2020 and 80% by 2030. This project has the potential of reducing the community's carbon emission by 10% and will increase our non -fossil electricity resources to nearly 50%. One key component to successfully delivering this wind energy to PRPA's Rawhide Facility is approval of 9.7 miles of transmission line on City -owned Meadow Springs Ranch (MSR). MSR is owned by the Wastewater Utility and serves as the primary location for regulatory compliant land application of biosolids generated from the City's wastewater facilities. MSR is also rich in cultural and environmental resources including the reintroduced federally endangered black footed ferret, archeological artifacts, and water rights. MSR also serves as a working cattle ranch. The project team has been working diligently to evaluate possible routes and their potential impacts to MSR. The team has engaged the Water, Energy, and Land Conservation and Stewardship Boards (Attachments 7, 8 and 9) as well as potentially impacted land owners and the general public. The project team utilized a systems November 27, 2018 Page 2 approach (Energy by Design, Siting Study, and Appraisal Study) to evaluate and determine a preferred route and mitigation strategy to present to City Council for consideration of approval. City Boards and Public Outreach The project team has attended several board meetings, workshops, and hosted open houses to provide updates and gather feedback on the proposal. Outreach included presentations to the Water, Energy, Natural Resources, and Land Conservation and Stewardship Boards. Two open houses, August 15 and September 26 (Attachment 11) and a joint advisory board meeting (Attachment 10) were also held to gather additional feedback. Comments have been generally in support of the City granting the easement on MSR for the Roundhouse Renewable Energy Transmission Line. At the August 15 Open House (Attachment 11), the project team sought feedback on the following two questions: Would you support City Council granting an easement across MSR for the above -ground transmission lines? 91% of respondents support this statement. 2. Would you support City Council issuing a cooperation agency letter of support to Larimer and Weld County's 1041 permit process? 94% of respondents support this statement. Feedback from the Water, Energy, Natural Areas, and Land Conservation/Stewardship boards have been in support as well. The project team is scheduled to meet with the Water Board on December 20 to obtain their official recommendation, as Meadow Springs Ranch is managed and operated by the Wastewater Utility. Compensation Mitigation Package Granting an easement on MSR for the transmission line will impact the surface area and the ecology of the area. The easement itself has a monetary value that will be recovered by the City for granting surface area access rights. In addition, there will be impacts to the land and surrounding area as a result of the activities associated with granting the easement. These impacts can be difficult to determine and manage however, the team decided early in the process to apply a mitigation hierarchy concept when evaluating possible transmission line routes and other potential impacts. Mitigation hierarchy uses the concept to first avoid impacts, minimize the impacts that occur and finally to mitigate unavoidable impacts associated with a project. This concept aligns with the Mountain to Plains Energy by Design (EBD), a previously used management plan for potential oil and gas development at Soapstone Natural Area and MSR. In addition to utilizing EBD, a Land Appraisal Report, Siting Study, and Triple Bottom Line scan were completed. Finally, to determine the value for the impacts to the ecosystem as a result of an easement being approved, the team applied an ecosystem goods and services equation to quantify the monetary value of impacts. Energy by Design (EBD) The EBD management strategy was developed in 2013 in cooperation with The Nature Conservancy, Colorado State Land Board, Larimer County, Colorado Natural Heritage Program, and the City of Fort Collins. The plan developed a process to work with potential oil and gas development on Red Mountain Open Space, Soapstone Prairie Natural Area, and Meadow Springs Ranch that would allow for reasonable energy development while achieving the biological, cultural, scenic and recreational resource conservation goals of property owners. The plan is a scientific approach that identifies strategies to avoid, minimize, and mitigate any potential impacts from energy development to biological, cultural, and scenic values. A second goal of EBD was to achieve a no -net change in conservation value following the energy development or in this case, from siting and construction of the transmission line. The approach to meet the second goal is to apply concepts of ecological goods and service values associated with the transmission line and determine how to mitigate loss in value caused by the transmission line project. November 27. 2018 Page 3 Ecosystem Goods and Services Ecosystem goods and services are provided by the ecosystem processes that either directly sustain or enhance human life or maintain the quality of ecosystem goods (Brown etal. 2007). Ecoservices maintain biodiversity or improve the condition or location of valued natural items (carbon storage, water filtration etc.). Ecosystem goods are generally defined products that have tangible value (forage, timber, biomass fuels, pharmaceuticals, etc.). Others have categorized ecosystem services into provisioning services, regulatory services, supporting services and cultural services (Holzman 2012). Provisioning services provide natural products: food, fiber, fuels etc. Regulatory services include things such as water and air filtration, carbon sequestration and storage and organic recycling. Supporting services maintain provisioning and regulatory services and include things like soil formation, photosynthesis and maintenance of healthy habitats. Finally, cultural services describe the intangible benefits that result from contact with nature; hiking, bird watching, fishing, hunting, etc. Given the broad definition of ecological goods and services, it can be assumed that some portion of the value will remain following the transmission line construction. While valid estimates of ecosystem services have been developed, the loss of values associated with the transmission line can only be estimated at this time. The cost of long-term studies needed to quantify the change are likely to exceed the value lost. Also, the lost value will change over time. For example, areas directly disturbed by construction activities will have a relatively high loss of ecosystem services until restored. Areas converted to roads will have a permanent loss of some ecosystem values and minor effects on others. Last, some areas within the easement that remain undisturbed during the project will have little if any reduction in value. Recent studies in Colorado have worked to place monetary value on ecosystem goods and services and are used for this analysis (Sargent -Michaud 2009, Seidl et al. 2017.) The equation and agreed upon variables are still being discussed between the City and NextEra. Preliminary discussions have produced a potential loss in goods and services as a result from the transmission line easement in the range of $300K to $400K. In addition to protecting important biological and cultural attributes, MSR also serves as the City's biosolids application facility and considerations must be considered for this operation. It was with the EBD mindset that the Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project framed the subsequent work evaluating the potential transmission line routes and easement on MSR. Land Appraisal Report The Land Appraisal Report (Attachment 4) was completed by CBRE to determine land value of MSR and easement area. CBRE conducted the site visit with project team members including City staff. The land valuation is based on a highest and best use of Agriculture, External Market and Location Influences, and Comparable Land Sales. The appraisal determined that MSR land has a value of $1200.00 / acre with a total value of $31,920,000.00. The easement compensation for the 176.4 acres needed is still being discussed. The Land Appraisal Report is attached for reference. Project Siting Study The Project Siting Study (Attachment 5) was completed by Logan Simpson for the Roundhouse Renewable Energy project in August 2018. The Siting Study provided an analysis of possible transmission line routes on MSR. The analysis used the City's Energy by Design methodology focused on a triple bottom line approach to select a preferred transmission line route. Six potential routes were initially identified for consideration. Criteria utilized to evaluate and select the preferred route include the following: • Vegetation and Surface Water; • Wildlife, including grassland birds and raptors; • Visual Resources: • Land Uses • Cultural Resources; • Engineering factors: • Existing Linear Infrastructure. November 27, 2018 Page 4 The preferred route was identified as Route 2B (Attachment 2) because it has the lowest or equal conflicts with Vegetation and Surface Water, Wildlife, Birds - Raptor. Visual Resources. Land Uses. Cultural Resources, and Engineering criteria. It is the shortest route evaluated and has the fewest angle structures and parallels existing linear infrastructure for most of its length. The preferred alternative route will be carried forward into the Weld County 1041 permit and Use by Special Review applications and the Larimer County 1041 permit application. Route 2B parallels the existing railroad for the first six miles from Wyoming to MSR prior to heading south and west to the Rawhide Substation. Triple Bottom Line Evaluation The Triple Bottom Line (Attachment 6) was completed with City staff from Utilities, Natural Areas, and Environmental Services. The project description used for the scan was The Installation of transmission lines on MSR, which is adjacent to Soapstone Natural Area. Utilities owns MSR. This scan considers impacts of the transmission lines and impacts of approving the easement which will lead to the construction of the transmission line and enable a 150MW wind project. The proposed transmission lines have been requested by a 3rd party on behalf of PRPA purchase contract. The overall results of the scan generated a level of high confidence that the project would have a positive impact towards supporting the environment, economy, social, and organization priorities. Mitigation Package The total monetary value of the mitigation package has not been determined. The components used to finalize an agreed upon value will be the easement land value plus the determined value loss from the goods and services methodology. The project team will work to have these numbers finalized in time to present to Council at the work session. This item is scheduled for City Council consideration on January 15, 2019. ATTACHMENTS 1. Initial Potential 6 Route Map (PDF) 2. Preferred Route Map (PDF) 3. Project Overview Portrait Map (PDF) 4. Land Appraisal Report (PDF) 5. Project Siting Study (PDF) 6. TBL One Pager (PDF) 7. Land Conservation and Stewardship Board Minutes June 13, 2018 (PDF) 8. Energy Board Minutes November 8, 2018 Abridged (Draft) (PDF) 9. Joint Energy Water Board Minutes from April 19 2018 (Excerpts) (PDF) 10. Joint Advisory Board Meeting Minutes and Table Notes August 22, 2018 (PDF) 11. Roundhouse Renewable Energy OpenHouse Comment Summary without names (PDF) 12. PowerPoint Presentation (PDF) TRIPLE BOTTOM LINE SCAN SUMMARY Project: Building Energy Scoring ATTACHMENT 6 City of �,.Fort�inS Project Description Installation of transmission lines on utility owned Meadow Springs Ranch, which is adjacent to Soapstone Natural Area. This scan considers impacts of the transmission lines and impacts of approving the easement which will lead to the construction of the transmission line and enable a 150 mega watt (MW) wind project. The proposed transmission lines have been requested by a 3rd party on behalf of the PRPA purchase contract. IMPACTS WITH MEDIUM TO HIGH CONFIDENCE Environmental Positive • To what extent could this project impact eh community's efforts to meet the CAP goals (20% reduction below 2005 by 2020 and beyond)? This project will have significant impact to 2021 emissions. • To what extent could this project impact the community's preparedness and resiliency for climate change risks and other natural disasters? This project will add energy diversity to the City's portfolio and reduce the need for further fossil fuel use. Negative • To some degree this project (with/without) the mitigation package in place. this project would negatively impact the natural environment including land, plant. and animal communities. The mitigation package attempts to minimize as much as possible. L] Economic e-°8 Social Positive Positive • To what extent could this project • This project scored as an overall impact the economic health of the neutral project in the social leg of the Fort Collins business community. TBL. including the ability to retain or attract talent or ability for a business to stay or expand? This project is expected to be neutral in this area with no rate or reliability impacts. • To what extent could this project impact regional economic partnerships and participation? This project has a positive impact as a result of the shared interests of the community owned PRPA. Approval of the easement will allow all four communities to benefit and achieve shared goals. Negative • Nothing negative Negative • Nothing negative. Tradeoffs / Mitigations Tradeoffs • Conversation of balancing the many facets of environmental stewardship priorities such as land management ecology and climate action goals. Mitigations • Yet to be determined financial payment for transmission line easement that considers both surface area appraisal value and value of the ecological goods and services provided by the easement area. • Draft mitigation concepts have been developed and are being discussed that address potential environmental, economic. and social impacts of the project. 1 Ci f TRIPLE BOTTOM LIN' ;CAN SUMMARY Fort Collins Project: Transmission Line Easement on MSR for Roundhouse Renewable Project High confidence So,: al Environmental • Negative Impact Positive Impact Low Confidence Discussion Overall. the Transmission Line Easement project for the Roundhouse Renewable Energy Project scored favorably with the Triple Bottom Line Scan. A team of cross functional city staff completed the scan and a robust discussion on all aspects of the project were discussed. The potentially negative impacts identified in the environmental scan will be mitigated as much as possible through the mitigation discussions and ultimate package presented to council at time of easement approval is requested. Role of Council Does Council support granting the transmission line easement on Meadow Springs Ranch as recommended by City Staff? 2 City of Fort s E N YO RENEWABLE ENERGY City of Fort Collins 411 Platte River Power Authority Estes Park • Fort Collins • Longmont • Loveland Partnership and Collaboration rjMakoIm Baldr ge ♦at,oaal (Nab*, Awl( fr 2017 Award Recipient iii OCANSI P4 P S O N N EXT ra ENERGY CZ FESOOflCE 3 Yf Ci f Fort Collins ROUNDHOUSE VA ND FARM Illip...v.r,.. M..o.....fl ® b.... wwr.. ■mureeli ■ M..M Prater new MI MI ISIS. r .1"..". :1141111":" "LURADO •1 • • • • • Wind Farm in Wyoming • Meadow Springs Ranch • Rawhide Energy Station 4 f Fort Collins • Wind Energy Transmission Line Easement • MSR Transmission Line Easement — 230 kV line • Wyoming to PRPA Rawhide Substation • 9.7 miles of Transmission Line on MSR • Diversify Energy Portfolio • Triple PRPA's Wind Capacity • 10% decrease Fort Collins Emissions Ms- • Construction 2020 with completion no later than December 2020 • Contract Term is 21.5 years of Fort Collins Strategic Plan Alignment Environmental Health • 4.1 Achieve Climate Action Plan (CAP) 2020 goals and continue Progress toward the 2030 goals • 4.3 Achieve 2020 Energy Policy goals and work towards Climate Action goals for carbon neutrality • 4.8 Protect and enhance natural resources on City -owned properties and throughout the community ,,F�o�rt`� Collins 8 Interstate Local Streets Existing Transmission Line ---1— Rail Lines Proposed Routes Preferred - 2C 3B City of Fort Collins Sas 4 0 r. — • w a .._w e en, J memo imam . WI▪ NO _deal .rr --Fn .M ase efilliaaver ace le, Om ..^ ■oa.narovn t.n.wob$. (nervy • 6 routes initially evaluated • Siting Criteria • Vegetation and Water • Wildlife • Birds • Visual Resources • Land Use • Cultural Resources • Engineering Criteria • Linear Infrastructure 9 Ci f Fort Coffins Route Comparison Siting Criteria Transmission Route Evaluation Criteria Preferred 2C 3B Vegetation and Surface Water 4 4 3 Wildlife Criteria 8 4 4 Raptor Criteria 1 1 0 Grassland Bird Criteria 3 3 2 Visual Resources 4 3 3 Route Comparison Siting Criteria Transmission Route Evaluation Criteria Preferred 2C 3B Land Use 4 4 2 Cultural Resources 1 0 0 Engineering Criteria 1 1 0 Linear Infrastructure Criteria (Higher Value = Best) Grand Total Number of Lowest Score 30 21 17 f Fort Collin s Modeled Conditions: View from Natural Fort Viewshed Analysis • Steel Monopole • Height 125' • Approximately 0.9 miles to nearest pole 12 City of Fort Collins Ustrae U Neon& et e -,j. ststu. l Y " •• rr. Asa k• rant t•./n,o.: � rrwnts w,'/(/To1M IN 1t nrfq Lesko kg kt !lisw. Nett. M.►syt teener: t n..1 U -.Wt w 1:iPant)sn ant i Ann II Mma- NOtldeatisitie t .rJn /-00, nr•, at ant •••-.10t 6..lostsar a Mors C.11 d kit l UYn la- avv. SOTnilt •et O e.ts-zeds . at. S 5 at MAY Ma .+l e s v.r. tenser ROUNDHOUSE /t hat WA&( INEIGY rt.eteltw.r Knorr Ln..Yj tams Carry tats Pew me tote ., eon •4a Wr Crumb ;gate Cniarr .dr el gots MYY% toil, ZJG.V T1sry.rson Urn Lnt.o Inge Tlr/nll.pttea 0 Viewshed Analysis • 3.5+ miles from Plover Trail • Observable but not noticeable • 6.5 miles is outer bounds of visibility • Not skylined 13 City of Fort Collins City Boards & Public Outreach • City Board Meetings, Joint Workshops, and Open Houses • Comments have generally been in support of the City granting an easement on MSR for the Transmission Line Question Yes Somewhat support / neutral No Total Respondents To in Support Would you support an easement? Would you support a letter of support from Council to Larimer and Weld County? 31 32 3 2 0 34 0 34 91% 94% i 14 City of Fort Collins Mitigation Aspects • Alignment selection (4.3M) • Pole Design, Perch Deterrents, Line Markers ($TBD) • Continue to avoid impacts (TBD) • Compensatory Mitigation (approximately $350,000) • Easement Value ( $105,850) 15 Triple Bottom Line Scan 111 a II I:I CROSS FUNCTIONAL TRIPLE BOTTOM LINE SCAN COMPLETED ADD DIVERSITY OF ENERGY PORTFOLIO NEUTRAL IMPACT TO RATES AND RELIABILITY SIGNIFICANT IMPACT TO ACHIEVING CAP GOALS 16 City of FortCollins f� Laramie Foothills Mountains to Plains Landscape a N 1[NNnG we claw° • UI POMP K.4rn'. Ramie I w —.1 Ka.Had. Pnwtr Mani a... .rw w. a .� — �. a rte.... -• e._._ ti. Gees ... fir .-.r..� ��1 a..• • —a., a"_.e.-. a.. .toga..._....aw._._-r._.,.... Fort Collins Preferred Route Validated • After all the evaluation, the preferred route offers the least amount of impact as a result of planned transmission line and required easement. Final Questions 1. Does Council support granting the transmission line easement on Meadow Springs Ranch as recommended by City Staff? 2. Does Council support this item coming to Council on January 15, 2019 for approval? 18 Duck Creek Grazing Association PO Box 597 Eaton, CO 80615 December 12, 2018 Weld County Planning Department 1555 N 17th Ave Greeley, CO 80631 Dear Weld County Planning Department, We are writing to inform you of our support of NextEra's transmission line. We have been working with NextEra as they have worked through the process of research and development for this project and we look forward to continuing to work with them through the implementation. Most of the membership of Duck Creek are long lime residents of Weld County who are deeply invested in the community. The membership is excited to see this project move forward as we believe it will benefit the entire community through job growth and well as developing another source of energy for the community. Please feel free to contact us at anytime with any questions that you may have about our interest in the project. The best contact person is Jerry Sidwell 970-381-4701. Sincerely, Duck Creek Grazing Association From: Jeremy Call To: thatiaibmaa EtlnBlbeall Cc: aids o. itekS, Knsbix Ransfew, Ran Ftmauxk(rv1m.fzontrldeEOnexteraeneray.cmn1 Subject RE Removing Items for Roundhouse 1041 USR (PRE:8-019T) Date: Fnday, Janaary 25, 2019 12:41:38 PM ICriittdke This omit originated from outside of Weld Count Gos•emmen. Do not click links or open attactuncnis unless c on rccogniie tie sender and know the content is safe. Chris, To follow up on the one outstanding item, below is a list of utilities crossed by the preferred route in Weld County. with contacts. Please use it for referral agency reviews Section Township Range Owner Commodity Type Contact Person Contact Number Latitude Longitude COUNTY 20 12 67 Southern Star Central Gas NAT_ri.li G-'i; HPEL NE JUL 34-i ''. 307-3.1i- 3533 1.'9013.04306 724088.66503 WELD 20 1_ 67 Kinder Morgan NATURAL GAS PIPELINE CORY TALMAGA-GRAY 719-520-4266 179426 70128 724049.21423 WELD 20 1 ' 67 Kinder Morgan NATURAL GAS PIPELINE CORY TALMAGA-GRAY 719-520-4266 179021.07806 724092.56378 WELD 20 12 67 Kinder Morgan NATURAL GAS PIPELINE CORY TALMAGA-GRAY 719-520-4266 178886.88128 724027 44873 WELD 20 12 67 Kinder Morgan NATURAL GAS PIPELINE CORY TALMAGA-GRAY 719-520-4266 178841.40088 724005.38071 WELD 20 ._ 67 Kinder Morgan NATURAL GAS PIPELINE CORY TALMAGA-GRAY 719-520.4266 178797.21461 723983.94061 WELD O _ 57 TALL GRASS NATURAL GAS PIPELINE GREGG MCALEXANDER 303-763-3417 178710.46720 723941.84898 WELD 2(J 12 67 OVERLAND PASS (WILLIAMS) NATURAL GAS PIPELINE 1EREMIE LEWIS 307-371.1726 178668.34667 723921 41123 WELD 20 12 67 LEVEL 3 COMM (WILTEL) FIBRE OPTIC FIBRE OPTIC LINE DAN WARE 303.589-6938 179037.11436 724100.34492 WELD 20 12 67 POUDRE VALLEY ELECTRICITY POWER LINE UNKNOWN UNKNOWN 177281.25832 723258.59875 WELD We are completing due diligence to determine whether Poudre Valley REA owns a facility in Weld County, and who to contact. I will send that to you once it is ascertained. Is there anything else you need to continue processing the application? Jeremy Call Logan Simpson C (970) 4S1-919% jrallpdngancimpson raw Imp-//www ingainimpcnn cnit From: Jeremy Call Sent: Wednesday. January 23. 2019 1:34 PM To: 'Chris Gathman' <cgathman@weldgov.com>: Erin Bibeau <ebibeau@logansimpson,corn> Cc: crank Haug <fhaug@weldgov.com>: Bob Choate <bchoate@weldgov.com>; Kristine Ranslem <kranslem@weldgov com> Subject: RE Remaining Items for Roundhouse 1041 USR (PREIS-0197) Chris, Yes, we can consolidate a list of utilities that are crossed by the project. You're right, it is a remote area and fortunately there are only a few other easements or facilities. Thank you for letting us know that the application fee check had arrived and has been cashed. Jeremy Call Logan Simpson C.(970148i-929% jra114jingancanlpsnn emu hilp://wwcw loyancin ncnn,cam From: Chris Gatnrnan 'matlto:cgathman(a)weidgov. ) Sent: Wednesday Januar,/ 23. 2019 8:38 AM To: Jeremy Call <1CalIPLOGANSIMPSON,COM> Erin Bibeau <F$ibeau(WLOGANSIMPSON.COM> Cc: Frank Haug <fhaugt@weldgov_corrt> Bob Choate chrhnate(aweldgov.corrl> Kristine Ranslem <kranalem(Wweldgov coral' Subject: Remaining Items for Roundhouse 1041 USR (PRE18.019'I Dear Jeremy and Erin, Sorry for the delay in reviewing the application. There are three (3) items - one item should be able to be addressed quickly The other is in regards to the fee 1) For notification purposes of referral agencies: I know it is a fairly remote area but - will the transmission line be crossing any (water. gas. telephone, oil and gas lines)? If so do you have a list' 2) Application Fee - I had a conversation with Lorraine at the Arizona Office I believe) (480 967 1343)— I was unable to track down the check that was originally dropped off. i spoke to her on 1/10. They were going to void the check and mail a new check directly to me. I have checked my inbox and do not see the check as of yet. Lorraine had indicated a new check was mailed 1/16 — hopefully it will arrive today. Once these items are addressed I will proceed with setting up the case I have to coordinate with another person in our office in order to send out referrals— so if I get these items in today (depending on the number of other cases pending...) we can send out referrals either this week or the first part of next week. I have also assigned a case # - USR19-0009 Hello