[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]


                                                                                      FY 1992 FINAL PRODUCT Task 17
                                                                                                 Vis. Assess. N. Landing Rvr.








                                                                                                              X
                                                                                                                                aw,


                                                                                        xx.:




                                                     fA









                                               ho                                                 ......

                                                                                                    . . ..........



                                                         N
                                                                  ;-T _:L-a6ding River Watershed
                                                              ( h
                                                              oft
                                                                          @@,a             Visual Assessment
                                          -P u4b t-                            K;
                                                                                                                       March 1994










                                                                                              X .





                                                      E4




                                                                              0 Wo
                  f Or" D CR
                  Department of Conservation & Recreation                                                   MRGMAt DE RTMENT OF
                  CONSERVING \nRCANIAS NATURAL AND REDIMONAL RESOURrT                                       ENVIRONMENMAL QUALITY





                             North Landing River Watershed Public
                                          Access and Visual Assessment







                      Prepared by: Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation



                      In cooperation with: City of Virginia Beach
                                                   City of Chesapeake
                                                   Hampton Roads Planning District Commission
                                                   Virginia Marine Resources Commission
                                                   Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries
                                                   Virginia Department of Environmental Quality
                                                   The Nature Conservancy
                                                   North Landing Scenic River Advisory Board
















                Tlls report was funded in part; by the Department of Environmental Quality's Coastal Resources Management Program
                through Grant#NA27OZO312-01 of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admini trati n (NOAA), Office of Ocean and
                Coastal Resource Management, under the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended.


                The views expressed herein are those ofthe authors and do not necessarily reflect the views ofNOAA or any of its subagencies.






                                                    Summary



                 The purpose of this study is to evaluate the North Landing River and its tributaries for potential public
            access opportunities and to identify the visual components contributing to this scenic waterway. The study
            brings together the work of various agencies and organizations which have ongoing projects in the water-
            shed. The study boundaries have been expanded from the original grant proposal to include a portion of the
            Northwest River which is a component of the southern watersheds. Virginia@s Southern Watersheds include
            Back Bay, the North Landing River and the Northwest River in southern Virginia Beach and Chesapeake.
            Both the North Landing and Northwest Rivers are visually similar in character offering diverse and exten-
            sive marshes as well as 50 rare and endangered plant and animal species. The watersheds are located

                 There is a definite need for additional public access to Virginia's waters throughout the Common-
            wealth and particularly in the Cbesapeake region. The results of the 1992 Virginia Outdoors Survey
            indicate a need for various types of water access. The growth in passive recreation over the past 5 years is
            evident by the number of survey respondents who visit natural areas. While canoeing and fishing have
            always been popular activities, the addition of passive recreation, education or interpretive activities in-
            creases the need for public access to preserves and other conservation lands. In providing public access
            and recreational opportunities on these lands, it important to assess the appropriateness of such access and
            the sustainability of the site and its inhabiting species.

                 The regional resources along with general recommendations for maintaining and enhancing the public
            access and visual components of these waterways are identified herein. The existing status of the
            watershed's visual environment and areas which are or may be susceptible to visual intrusions are also
            described in the plan by river or stream reach. Projects and locations which could provide a more compre-
            hensive approach to public access within the watershed are also addressed by river or stream reach.
            Finally, a summary of implementation opportunities, potential cooperative initiatives and funding options are
            provided. This report is intended to give local and private groups interested in public access and visual
            quality a basis for dealing with issues related to these topics and enough background to begin work on the
            projects identified in the plan.



             North Lan&ng River WatershedPubhc Access and VbualAssessment                            EM

                                       Acknowledgements


             The following persons are recognized for their contributions and efforts in this planning study:

             Laura McKay of the Department of Environmental Quality provided oversight and support to the
             project and individuals involved in the study. As always, Laura's professional spirit and enthusiasm is
             an inspiration.

             Authors of the text for this study include Janit Potter and Caren CaUouw of the Department of
             Conservation and Recreation and Mary Heinricht, a private consultant.

             Megan Rollins of the Department of Conservation and Recreation prepared the maps for the final
             report.

             Mary Heinricht provided the sketches for potential access improvements'.

             Dawn Shank of the Department of Conservation and Recreation designed the cover.

             Individuals who reviewed the draft text included: Paul Hagenmueller of the Department of Conser-
             vation and Recreation; Barry Frankenfield of the City of Virginia Beach; Fred Hazelwood and Phil
             Khoury of Seashore State Park (DCR); Steve Hobbs of the Nature Conservancy;. Phil 1,ownes of
             the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries; and Bill Petree of the City of Chesapeake, Department
             of Parks and Recreation, Northwest River Park.

             Thanks to Jim Guyton of the Department of Conservation and Recreation for preparing the grant
             invoices and keeping the project on track and to Jeannie Lewis-Smith of the Department of Envi-
             ronmental Quality for working to insure proper documentation to meet the grant requirements.

             The following persons participated in the field reviews and evaluations necessary for the project
             evaluations: Lillie Gilbert and Nancy Andrews of Wild River Outfitters;Tony Watkinson, Randy
             Owen and Mic Stone of Virgina Marine Resources Commission; Bill Petree of the City of Chesa-
             peake; Michele St. Clair formerly of the Nature Conservancy; Kenn Clark, Sandra Erdle, Larry
             Smith, Tom Stuart, Dick Gibbons, Derral Jones and John Davy of the Department of Conserva-
             tion and Recreation; and the North Landing River Scenic Advisory Board.

             Other individuals who met with the project team and provided input into the planning process in-
             cluded: John Carlock of the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission; Claire Askew, Direc-
             tor of the City of Chesapeake, Department of Parks and Recreation; Susie Walston, Director of the
             City of Virginia Beach Department of Parks and Recreation; Ron Kuhlman of the City of Virginia
             Beach, Department of Convention and Visitor Development; the North Landing Scenic River
             Avisory Board; Wild River Outfitters; and Clay Bernick and Steven White, City of Virginia
             Beach.





                                               NorehLan&ng River Watershed Pubhc Access and Visual Assessment
                                                                          Contents


                  1.0 INTRODUCTION                                       .................................................................                         I
                  2.0 REGIONAL CONTEXT                                                 ........................................               oeesoooosese. 3
                  2.1 Regional Description                                     .......                                                                             3
                  2.2 Physiographic Description                                            ......................................             0.9644666600t 3
                  2.3 Land Use                     ...........................         o.............                                                              4
                  2.4 Cultural Resources                                 ............  o  .......................................             o...............     6
                  2.4.1 Architecture           ...............................................................................................................................6
                  2.4.2    Religion       ......................................................................................................................................7
                  2.4.3    Government          ...............................................................................................................................7
                  2.4.4    Military       ......................................................................................................................................7
                  2.4.5    Commerce and Trade                 ............                                                                                         8
                  2.4.6    Transportation and Engineering                      .............................................................................................8
                  2.5 Conservation Lands & Protection Status                                                                ...........................            10
                  3.0      PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS                                                           ..........  o...o  .... o  ..................         11
                  3.1 Potential Use Conflicts and Levels of Use                                                          ........................        0 ...     11
                  3.1.1    Boating Conflicts            ..................................................................................................................... 11
                  3.1.2    Hunting and Fishing               ............................................................................................................... 12
                  3.1.3    Environmental stresses                .......................................................................................................... 12
                  3.1.4 Carrying Capacity                 .................................................................................................................. 13
                  3.2 Types of Activities/Opportunities                                                   ............................        0............        13
                  3.2.1    Fish and Wildlife Related Recreation                       ................................................................................... 18
                  3.2.2    Boating      ..........o.............o ............................................................................................................ 18
                  3.2.3    Greenways, Bikeways and 11-ails                     ......................................................................................... o.20
                  3.2.4    Park and Recreational Activities                    .......................................................................................... 21
                  3.2.5    Environmental Opportunities                   ................................................................................................ 23
                  3.2.6    Cultural Recreation and Ecotourism                        .................................................................................... 25
                  3.3 Visual Considerations                                    .................................            0000800000000000006000990 31
                  3.3.1    land Views - River Crossings                  ................................................................................................ 31
                  3.3.2    Land Views - Public Parks                 .................0 ................................................................................... 31
                  3.3.3    Water Views          ......o ..................................................................................................................... 31
                  3.3.4    Water Views - Crossings                ....................................................................................................... o.32
                  4.0 RIVER SEGMENTS                                           ..................                                                                  33
                  4.1 North Landing River                                      .............................                                                       33
                  4.1.1    Location and Natural Resources                      ........................................................................................... 33
                  4.1.2    Cultural Resources             ........................................o ........................................................................ 34
                  4.1.3    Visual Assessment             ................................................................................................................... 34



                  Noith Lan&ng River Watershedftbhc Access and VaualAssessment                                                                    0

                   4.1.4 Existing and Potential Access                ................................................................................................ 35
                   4.2 Pocaty River                     ..........................................................................                     38
                   4.2.1 Location and Natural Resources                   ........................................................................................... 38
                   4.2.2 Cultural Resources             ................................................................................................................. 38
                   4.2.3 Visual Assessment            ................................................................................................................... 38
                   4.2.4 Existing and Potential Access                ................................................................................................ 39
                   4.3. West Neck Creek                           ..................................................................                   40
                   4.3.1   Location and Natural Resources                 ........................................................................................... 40
                   4.3.2   Cultural Resources           ................................................................................................................. 40
                   4.3.3   Visual Assessment          ................................................................................................................... 42
                   4.3.4   Existing and Potential Access              ................................................................................................ 42
                   4.4 Alton's Creek                       ........................................................................                    48
                   4.4.1   Location and Natural Resources                 ........................................................................................... 48
                   4.4.2   Visual Assessment          ................................................................................................................... 48
                   4.4.3   Existing and Potential Public Access                 .................................................................................... 48
                   4.5 Blackwater Creek                                                                                                                49
                   4.5.1   Location and Natural Resources                 ........................................................................................... 49
                   4.5.2   Cultural Resourres           ................................................................................................................. 49
                   4.5.3   Visual Assessment          ................................................................................................................... 49
                   4.5.4   Existing and Potential Access              ................................................................................................ 49
                   4.6 Milldam Creek                          ...............                                                                          51
                   4* 6.1  Location and Natural Resources                 ........................................................................................... 51
                   46.2    Cultural Resources           ................................................................................................................. 51
                   4.63    Visual Assessment          ................................................................................................................... 51
                   4.6.4   Existing and Potential Public Access                 .................................................................................... 51
                   4.7 Northwest River                           .............  040*06 00*0000000*00900 0000 0660                        69066600 52
                   4.7.1   Location and Natural Resources                 ........................................................................................... 52
                   4.7.2   Visual Assessment          ................................................................................................................... 53
                   4.7.3   Existing and Potential Public Access                 .................................................................................... 53
                   5.0 PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND FUNDING                                                                            ...............      54
                   5.1 Community Involvement                                      .....................................................                54
                   5.2     Who Can Develop Access                                   ....................................................               54
                   5.3     Project Planning and Design                                    ...............................................              55
                   5.3.1   Needs Assessment           ................................................................................................................... 55
                   5.3.2 Site Selection         ............................................................................................................................ 56
                   5.2.3 Design Criteria           ........................................................................................................................ 56
                   5.3.4 Site Management              .................................................................................................................... 56
                   5.4 Environmental Assessments and Permitting                                                           .....................        56
                   5.5 Funding                  .................................................................................                      57
                   5.5.1 Public-Private Partnerships                .............. ..................................................................................... 57






                  iv                 North Landing River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment




                  5.5.2    	Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF)  			58
                  5.5.4    	Virginia Outdoors Fund Grant Program					58
                  5.5.5 	Recreational Access Program         					59
                  5.5.6		Virginia Recreational Trails Fund Program   				60
                  5.5.7		Virginia Transportation Enhancement Program  				60
                  5.5.8		Virginia Environmental Endowment (VEE) 					61

			
			REFERENCES												62
			INDEX													65

			APPENDIX A												A-1
			APPENDIX B												B-1
			APPENDIX C												C-1





                North Landing River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment

                                                        List of Tables


                Table Number                                                                              Page


                3.1                               Existing and Potential Access Sites      ............      14


                3.2                               Cultural and Visual Resources       ....................   27
 





                                    North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment
                                                    List of Maps
           Figure Number                                                                                   FoRowing
                                                                                                                Page


              2.1                               Regional Location      .........................................      3

              2.2                               Protected Lands of the Northwest and North
                                                 Landing Rivers      ............................................     10

              3.1                               Existing and Potential Access Sites       ...............             12


              3.2                               Cultural Recreational and Visual Resources                            24


              4.1a                              North Landing River (N. section)         ................             33

              4.1b                              North Landing River (Central)        .....................            33

              4.1c                              North Landing River (S. section)        ..................            33

              4.2                               Pocaty River     ................................................     38

              4.3                               West Neck Creek        .......................................        40


              4.4                               Alton's Creek      ..............................................     48


              4.5                               Blackwater Creek       .......................................        49


              4.6                               Milldam Creek     .............................................       51


              4.7                               Northwest River       ..........................................      52





              North Lanifing River Watershed Pubfic Access and VisualAssessment
                                            List of Sketches
              Sketch Number                                                          Page

              4.1                         North Landing River and Alton's Creek at
                                           Pungo Ferry Road   ...................................... 37

              4.2                         Pocaty at Blackwater Road  ......................... 39

              4.3a                        West Neck Creek Park   ............... ............... 43


              4.3b                        West Neck Creek at Indian River Road .......     45


              4,1                         Blackwater Creek at Land of Promise Road ...     50



                    MIN                            North Lan&ng River Watershed Pub& A ccess and Vhual Assessment
                                                           List of Photographs

                    Photograph                                                                                                                                Page



                    4.2a                                            View of Pocaty River from The Nature
                                                                      Conservancy Observation Deck                        ....................                     35

                    4.2b                                            View of Pocaty River in Upper Reaches                             .........                    36

                    4.3a                                            Whitehurst/Buffington House                     ..........................                     40


                    4.3b                                            West Neck Creek at West Neck Creek Road..                                                      41


                    4.4a                                            Alton's Creek from the North Landing River
                                                                      Natural Area Preserve                  .................................                     46


                    4.4b                                            Alton's Creek Potential Canoe Access on the
                                                                      North Landing River Natural Area Preserve                                                    46

                    4.4c                                            Alton's Creek Canoe Experience                        ....................                     47

                    4.4d                                            Alton's Creek from the North Landing River
                                                                      Natural Area Preserve                  .................................                     47


                    4.7                                             Northwest River Park                ...................................                        52





                North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment

                1.0 INTRODUCTION


                      The "Public Access and Visual Assessment for the North Landing
                River Watershed" is a planning study funded in part by the Coastal Zone Management Program which is
                administered by the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The Department of Conservation and
                Recreation (DCR) has managed this project with cooperation from various agencies, organizations and
                businesses including: DEQ, Marine Resources Commission (VMRC); Department of Game and Inland
                Fisheries (DGIF); the Department of Historic Resources (DBR); the City of Virginia Beach, Department of
                Parks and Recreation and Department of Planning, the City of Chesapeake, Department of Parks and
                Recreation; the Virginia Beach Department of Convention and Visitor Development; the Nature Conser-
                vancy (TNC) and Wild River Outfitters.


                      The North Landing River contains one of the most diverse and unspoiled wetland systems in
                Virginia. The wetlands cover an area of more than 20,000 acres in the Cities of Virginia Beach and Chesa-
                peake. Although located near one of the fastest growing cities in the eastern United States, the area
                contains extensive freshwater marshes, pocosins, and forested swamps supporting fifty rare species. The
                area also provides important habitat for breeding and migrating waterfowl. The North American Water-
                fowl Management Plan through the Atlantic Coast Joint Venture (covering an area from Maine to South
                Carolina) has identified the wetlands of the North Landing as a top priority for protection.

                      In 1989, the North Landing River was designated as a Virginia Scenic River pursuant to the Virginia
                Scenic Rivers Act of 1970. A local interest group initiated the legislative process for protection and
                recognition of the river as a natural, scenic, historical, and recreational resource of statewide significance.
                The Virginia Scenic River designation includes the North Landing River and its tributaries from the North
                Carolina line to the bridge at Route 165, North Landing Road.

                      Conservation lands in private and public ownership are located along the major channel and tributaries
                of the North Landing River. These lands are being managed as natural areas and minimal public access or
                interpretation currently exist on them. It is the intent of the public and private landowners to develop some
                level of compatible access, passive recreation, and interpretation for these natural areas. Over the past
                decade, public concern has grown for preserving remaining examples of Virginia's native landscape. There
                is a need to nurture and direct the public interest in preserving natural areas. Public access projects which
                promote environmental education and interpretive programs are vital to building support and increasing
                understanding of the values and uses of nature. These natural lands contribute significantly to the scenic
                quality of the watershed; however, they are very limited in their potential for public access development due
                to the lack of upland access areas.

                      The purpose of this study is to evaluate the North Landing River and its tributaries for potential public
                access opportunities and to identify the visual components contributing to this scenic waterway. The study
                brings together the work of various agencies and organizations which have ongoing projects in the water-
                shed. The study boundaries have been expanded from the original grant proposal to include a portion of the
                Northwest River which is a component of the southern watersheds. Virginia's Southern Watersheds include
                Back Bay, the North Landing River and the Northwest River in southern Virginia Beach and Chesapeake.
                Both the North Landing and Northwest Rivers are visually similar in character offering diverse and exten-
                sive marshes as well as 50 rare and endangered plant and animal species. The watersheds are located






                                   Noyth Lanifing River Watershed Pubfic Access and Mual Assessment
               M


                                                                                                                                           f


             along a major flyway for migratory birds and each offers comparable recreational opportunities.

                   There is a definite need for additional public access to Virginia's waters throughout the Common-
             wealth and particularly in the Chesapeake region. The results of the 1992 Virginia Outdoors Survey
             indicate a need for various types of water access. The growth in passive recreation over the past 5 years is
             evident by the number of survey respondents who visit natural areas. While canoeing and fishing have
             always been popular activities, the addition of passive recreation, education or interpretive activities in-
             creases the need for public access to preserves and other conservation lands. In providing public access
             and recreational opportunities on these lands, it important to assess the appropriateness of such access and
             the sustainability of the site and its inhabiting species.

                   The 1994Mreinia Outdoors Plan (VOP) anticipates that in the future the desire and need for passive
             recreation sites will increase due to the aging population. The VOP states that

                       "Activities such as walking, bicycling, travel, gardening, golf and visiting gardens are
             anticipated to increase as will ecotourism and nature tourism. The interest in tourism and travel
             provides opportunities for the recreation provider, communities and the private sector to create
             offerings which have recreational, educational and economic benefits, as well as preserve natural
             resources.


                   'Me VOP also states that education and continued learning or self-improvement are trends with
             high priorities for older adults. This trend may lead to the need for educational opportunities in
             conjunction with leisure. For example, an increase in ecotourism opportunities and more interpretive
             programs is anticipated in the future.

                   The regional resources along with general recommendations for maintaining and enhancing the
             public access and visual components of these waterways are identified herein. The existing status of the
             watershed's visual environment and areas which are or may be susceptible to visual inamions are also
             described in the plan by river or stream reach. Projects and locations which could provide a more compre-
             hensive approach to public access within the watershed are also addressed by river or stream reach.
             Finally, a summary of implementation opportunities, potential cooperative initiatives and funding options are
             provided. This report is intended to give local and private groups interested in public access and visual
             quality a basis for dealing with issues related to these topics and enough background to begin work on the
             projects identified in the plan.





                North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Yhual Assessment


                2.0 REGIONAL CONTEXT


                2.1 Regional Description


                     The North Landing River and its tributaries, and the Northwest River, are located in southeastern
                Virginia between the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and Currituck Sound. In the last
                two decades, the Chesapeake region which includes this watershed has been growing at one of the fastest
                paces in the United States. In fact, during this time period, the City of Virginia Beach grew faster, by
                twenty-five percent, than any other city in the country.

                     Virginia Beach was established as a beach resort before the turn of the twentieth century and continues
                to develop as a vacation destination and resort community. The resort area and its related facilities are
                located primarily along the beaches and shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Rudee Inlet, the Lynnhaven River and
                the Chesapeake Bay. Recreation opportunities outside the resort area have not been widely promoted. As
                the metropolitan area of Hampton Roads continues to grow, the demand for recreational opportunities
                increases for both the resident population and area visitors. The increase in demand for recreation makes
                options for resources associated with the North Landing and Northwest Rivers attractive. Careful manage-
                ment and planning need to occur to introduce appropriate opportunities in these waterways and their
                tributaries.



                2..2 Physiographic Description
                        (Figure 2.1)


                     Both the North Landing and the Northwest Rivers are located in the Atlantic Coastal Plain of south-
                eastern Virginia. These river systems and their tributaries drain the study area. The North Landing River
                watershed is within the Albemarle-Pamlico Estuarine region, the second largest estuarine system in the
                United States. The Northwest River flows 13 miles across the City of Chesapeake in a southeasterly
                direction from the Dismal Swamp to Tuns Bay in North Carolina and then on to Currituck Sound.
                Windtides influence these drainageways, especially when the wind blows from a southerly direction, causing
                flooding in low-lying areas adjacent to the waterways. The physiography of the area consists of narrow,
                subdued, well drained ridges; broad, poorly drained flats; and coastal area.

                     Two man-made canal systems connect the North Landing River with the Chesapeake Bay. The
                nineteenth century Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal connects the North Landing River with the Southern
                Branch of the Elizabeth River; and London Bridge Creek and Canal No. 2, constructed by the U. S. Army
                Corps of Engineers, connect the North Landing River from West Neck Creek to the Eastern Branch of the
                Lynnhaven River. A third branch of the North Landing flows into the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal
                from the heart of the Kempsville area of Virginia Beach. 7Ibe main stem of the North Landing and the
                Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal are part of the Intracoastal Waterway System, measuring 22 miles from
                the Great Bridge Locks in Chesapeake to the North Carolina line.

                     The soils within the region are formed mainly in marine and fluvial deposits on upland ridges and side



  I
  I
  1                                                    0
                                                               C2
  1                                              p
  I                                                                       .. Arm
                                                                           I-ef
                                                                            A a
  I
                                       ;@@l                               V.
  I

                            Figure 2.1 Regional Location
  I
  II
  I
  I
  ,1,
  I
  11
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I






                                  North Lan&ng River Watershed Pubfic Access and Visual Assessment

             slopes and on broad, nearly level flats. Most of the soils have a loamy subsurface. Several types of soils
             predominate the region. Areas directly adjacent to the waterways are generally marshes and swamps
             subject to flooding. Soils in these areas are mapped by the Soil Conservation Service Soil Survey almost
             exclusively as Dorovan-Pocaty-Nawney soils. Dorovan-Pocaty-Nawney soils are very poorly drained and
             consist of organic or loamy material. These soils are formed in organic material or fluvial sediments. The
             slopes associated with these soils range from 0 to 1 percent. Generally these soils are important to sustain-
             ing the wetland wildlife habitat adjacent to the waterways.

                   The soils nearest the roadways in the area are mapped by the Soil Conservation Service Soil Survey
             as Dragston-Munden-Bojac soils. These soils have a loamy subsoil, seasonal high water table which rapidly
             permeates the substratum. Like most soils in this region, these soils have been formed in marine and fluvial
             sediments. Dragston-Munden-Bojac soils are generally cultivated or support woodland species.

                   The State-Tetoturn-Augusta soils and the Acredale-Tomotley-Nimmo soils are located on uppermost
             areas in the region. A seasonal high water table is typical for these soil types which have a loamy subsoil.
             These soils are commonly cultivated or support woodland species While these soils represent the most
             upland of the soil types present in the region, they are limited in suitability for community development.



             2.3 Land Use


                   The North Landing River Watershed encompasses an area of 74,635 acres with 2,841 of these acres
             located in open waters. Agriculture is the primary land use in the watershed, occupying forty-five percent of
             the land, or 32,633 acres. Residential uses, commercial buildings, and roadways cover another 12,997
             acres of the basin or eighteen percent of the land area. The remaining 26,164 acres are undeveloped.

                   The Northwest River Watershed is not heavily developed. Of its 66,437 acres, less than one percent
             of the area, 3,554 acres, is in residential or commercial development. Farming and agriculture use about
             twenty-five percent of the area, or 16,527 acres. The remaining 46,356 acres is either wetlands or unman-
             aged forest lands.

                   The Cities of Virginia Beach and Chesapeake manage the growth and development within the North
             Landing River watershed, while the City of Chesapeake is responsible for land use activities within the
             Northwest River watershed. The City of Virginia Beach includes recommendations for this region in the
             Pungo/Blackwater Planning Area of the CoMRrehensive Plan: Planning Commission Recommendations to
             Ci1y Council December 12,1990. This plan shows much of the area surrounding the North Landing River
             and its tributaries as "environmentally sensitive areas" - The four issues cited in the comprehensive plan of
             particular relevance for the Pungo/Blackwater planning area are:

                     (1) rural growth management,
                     (2) agricultural preservation@
                     (3) rural transportation management, and
                     (4) environmental protection.

                   The Pungo/Blackwater Planning Area is the largest Virginia Beach planning area in terms of acreage,
             but it has the smallest population. In 1990 the population of this area was approximately 4,300. A build
             out population cited in the comprehensive plan is 83,900. Between 1987 and 1990 the average rate of





                 North Landing River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment
                 residential construction in this planning area was 30 dwelling units per year. The existing land use in this area
                 is predominantly agricultural mixed with one to three acre residential lots intermittently located as strip
                 development along the existing roadways. A number of small, rural commercial centers have evolved along
                 Princess Anne Road and Blackwater Road. These centers represent the only concentrations of commercial
                 land use in the watershed.


                      A Rural Preservation Plan was introduced with the City of Virginia Beach comprehensive plan. This
                 Rural Preservation Plan proposes a method to encourage well designed, rural neighborhoods that are
                 compatible with the agricultural operations and help protect environmentally sensitive areas. The City of
                 Virginia Beach states that this approach attempts to balance the interests of the rural area including the rural
                 roadway system, sensitive environmental conditions and agricultural industry. The city also recognizes
                 Environmental Protection as a key issue in the city's comprehensive plan.

                      The City of Chesapeake includes the region within the North Unding River Watershed and Northwest
                 River Watershed in the Southern Chesapeake region of their comprehensive plan entitled, A Coml2rehensive
                 Plan for the Ci1y of Chesapeake, Virginia. This comprehensive plan was adopted by the City of
                 Chesapeake's City Council on July 24,1990. Population growth in the Southern Chesapeake area is
                 anticipated to increase from 14,129 in 1988 to 24,389 in 2002.

                      The existing character of the landscape in this area is rural with agricultural and residential uses pre-
                 dominating. Existing forested swamps and marshlands also comprise a large portion of the landscape. The
                 comprehensive plan describes the future form of the area south of the Chesapeake & Albemarle Canal in
                 the vicinity of Great Bridge as being a "countryside community", while the southern and western portions of
                 the city are described as rural or environmentally sensitive.

                      According to the city's 1990 comprehensive plan, the Southern Chesapeake planning unit has three
                 primary functions. These include:

                         (1) to sustain agriculture and protect open space;
                         (2) to provide for rural residential environments; and
                         (3) to provide remote compatible sites for the U.S. Naval Airfield and the Chesapeake Municipal Airport.

                      The future character of the area is to remain low density, rural and natural. Generally, the Southern
                 Chesapeake planning unit area will not be served by public sewer and water systems. The rural character
                 of the roads will be maintained by minimizing the traffic volumes and enhancing the roadside vegetation
                 where necessary. Protection mechanisms for wetlands and hardwood swamps as well as for the water
                 quality within the Northwest River are mentioned in the comprehensive plan as part of future land use
                 planning activities.

                      The comprehensive plan also recognizes the importance of recreational activities in this region. The
                 plan states that the economic and recreational development of the city entails competent usage of its natural
                 resources. Public access to the waterways is mentioned as being necessary to meet existing and projected
                 recreational demands. The City of Chesapeake recognizes the potential for providing a boat ramp at the
                 Route 168 bridge over the Northwest River. Increased shoreline pedestrian and boating access to the
                 Chesapeake and Albemarle Canal through a new eight mile hiking trail is planned. Plans for improving
                 signage, parking and water access along the Northwest River Scenic Waterway Trail are also mentioned in
                 the city's comprehensive plan. To help meet the need for additional recreation in a city which is becoming
                 increasingly suburban, the City of Chesapeake incorporated an Open Space Amendment in their compre-






                                 North LatuUng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment

            hensive plan. This amendment requires residential developers to either dedicate or reserve land for open
            space uusage within their development.



            2.4 Cultural Resources


                  The North Landing River watershed has a rich historical context. From the native peoples who
            inhabited the Virginia coastal plain for over 1,500 years before Europeans to the boaters using the Intrac-
            oastal Waterway to ferry their yachts from Florida to New England, the river has played an important role
            in local history.

                  Because development pressures have been relatively low in this region, many of the historic structures
            remain. The Princess Anne Courthouse area has been designated a local historic area by the city. Other
            areas in the watershed probably do not have the density of structures or sites to warrant a similar designa-
            tion; however, there is potential for a local or regional byways designation. A local byway could highlight
            rural and cultural points of interest by encouraging tourists to use these local roadways.



            2.4.1 Architecture


                  Traditional building practices from Europe and England were brought to Virginia by the early settlers.
            Most early houses would have been constructed as earthfast, one-story wooden structures which generally
            did not survive over time in the coastal Virginia climate. Very few houses survived from the seventeenth
            century in Virginia, and none are located in the North Landing River watershed.

                  As the agricultural economy improved, during the 1700's, the area's residents gradually rebuilt more
            substantial frame houses. The surviving eighteenth century frame buildings in Princess Anne County gener-
            ally reflect the life style and architecture of wealthier "planters". In the later eighteenth century, federal style
            architecture became more prominent in domestic architecture.

                  During the nineteenth ce ntury, larger Georgian style homes with a central hall floor plan were built.
            Locals often shifted the hallway passage to the side of the house and created a paired chimney arrangement
            on one end of the gabled building. This style alteration became the popular vernacular Tidewater architec-
            tural expression of the 1820's residences. Late nineteenth century rural architecture is abundant in the
            North Landing River watershed as indicated by the examples of simple frame houses with decorative wood
            detailing from this period.

                  The City of Virginia Beach has prepared several recent inventories on historic buildings and sites in the
            city. Many of those of interest are located in the North Landing area in Blackwater, Pungo, or Princess
            Anne Boroughs. Over 200 buildings are listed in those three boroughs. Further research and planning to
            include the conservation of existing, significant resources are needed to further the awareness and protection
            of cultural resources in the North Landing River watershed.

                . Several properties in the project area have the potential for listing on the National Register of Historic
            Places. There is also a state listing of historic sites and cultural interest points which could be linked along a
            local byway which could be promoted for pleasure driving to tourists.





               North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Vaual Assessment;-.@-


               2.4.2 Religion


                    Although Wginia's Statute of Religious Freedom was not ratified until 1785, North Landing and Back
               Bay have a number of historic churches and church sites which demonstrate the gradual break from the
               Church of England in the colonies.

                    A Baptist congregation began having services near Pungo Ferry as early as 1674. What later became
               the Oak Grove Baptist Cburch held baptisms in the North Landing River near that site. This is the second
               oldest Baptist congregation in Virginia. The Blackwater Baptist Church was established in 1774, and
               another mission followed at Princess Anne Court House in 1784.


                    The Dawley Meetinghouse, at Gum Bridge and Charity Neck Roads, was the site of the first Method-
               ist congregation in Princess Anne. Francis Asbury, founder of Methodism, noted that he attended quarterly
               meetings at Dawley's Meetinghouse. The church currenlty located at this site was built in 1942. In 1791,
               Anne Nimmo dedicated an acre of land to the congregation of the Nimmo United Methodist Church for a
               church building. The church building was constructed shortly after and has been the site of temperance
               meetings, camps, and was used as a federal hospital during the Civil War.



               2.4.3 Govemment


                    The standing Princess Anne Courthouse, established in 1824, is the seventh court location since the
               first courthouse for Lower Norfolk County was built on Broad Creek in 166 1. The changes in location of
               the courts show the progression of development in the area that finally became the City of Virginia Beach.

                    The Princess Anne Courthouse was the seat for Princess Anne County government from 1868.
               Virginia Beach was granted its town charter in 1906, but the governing bodies were merged again in
               1963 when the newly formed city established a city manager form of government.


               2.4.4 Afilitar-y

                    Hampton Roads and Princess Anne are the sites of many naval and military actions which have great
               significance in American history. Lord Dunmore, British governor general, fought the residents of Princess
               Anne long before the Declaration of Independence was signed. The burning of Norfolk, a militia defeat at
               Kenipe's Landing, and the British defeat at Great Bridge all occurred before 1776.

                    The bridges in Princess Anne were objects of great interest. During the Revolutionary War, as
               colonists were suspected of trading tobacco for arms, the Beggars Bridge Road and Pleasant Ridge
               Road were identified on a map supplied to Benedict Arnold in his efforts to stop that trade. In 1863, during
               the Civil War, in an act of guerilla activity, all of the bridges in Princess Anne were destroyed by local
               residents to prevent produce from reaching market in Norfolk.






                                  North Lan&ng River Watershed Pubhc Access and Yhual Assessment



             2.4.5 Commerce and Trade


                  As settlement spread throughout the county, a number of market centers were established. By 1835,
             Princess Anne Court House was considered a main commercial center in addition to its later position as the
             center of county government. The courthouse area had an inn, shops, a general store and several churches.

                  When the railroad was constructed in the county, settlements grew around the depots. Pungo grew
             along the railroad to Munden Point and had two large mercantile establishments. Pungo also had a cotton
             gin which later became an ice plant. Creeds, near Back Bay, had three stores by the 1920's.

                  Agricultural trade historically formed the basis of the Princess Anne economy. The North Landing
             River Watershed remained primarily agricultural until the last half of the twentieth century. Presently, ap-
             proximately twenty percent of the land in the City of Virginia Beach is farmed. The primary land use within
             the Southern Watersheds is agricultural.

                  Tobacco was the first crop in Princess Anne and became the center of the colonial economy. In the
             1680s, soil depletion, fluctuating prices, and rising labor costs caused farmers to look to other crops and to
             harvest timber. Fanning operations were diversified in the eighteenth century; local crops included grains
             like corn, oats, and wheat. Flax was a cash crop for some farmers. There was also trade in pitch, tar, and
             pork. After the agricultural recession of the 1830's, Princess Anne farmers again diversified their endeav-
             ors. The county ranked high in hay production, third in poultry, and ffth in fisheries. Com was a cash crop
             and cattle feed.

                  In the late nineteenth century, Princess Anne produce was supplied to a wide area including
             cities of the North. Princess Anne produce was even featured at the Columbia Exposition in Chicago
             in 1893 by John L. Babcock.

                  In 1925, Princess Anne County was still predominantly agricultural in use. Ninety-three percent
             of the population lived outside of the incorporated town of Virginia Beach. There were 1,317 farms in
             the county, with sixty-eight percent of the land improved. Four hundred and twenty of the farms
             were between 20 and 49 acres in size; 322 farms were between 50 and 99 acres. Princess Anne
             County was one of the most productive truck fanning areas in the state. Potatoes were the largest
             crop, ranking fifth in the state. Other products included apples, peaches, hay, corn, cotton, wheat,
             and peanuts. Dairy cows and hogs were also raised at this time.


             2.4.6 Transportation and Engineering

                  Hampton Roads became one of the major entry ports for the colonies after the settlement of the
             New World. Norfolk was an important shipping port through colonial times, but lost some of its
             prominence to northern cities after the War of 1812. The numerous waterways and extensive low-
             lands in the region kept water passage as the primary transportation network well into the late nine-
             teenth century.



               North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and VIsual Assessment;@- MIMI'

                    Kempsville was an important shipping center for early Princess Anne County. Wheat, com, tobacco
               and timber were shipped from there to the Norfolk Navy Yard in the 1700's. The early settlement in the
               county relied on very poor roads.

                    The most important roadways led from Norfolk into various parts of Princess Anne. One road led
               from Norfolk to Kempsville and then extended on to the ocean. Another early road went from North
               Carolina through Great Bridge to Norfolk. The roadways into the southern part of the County were often
               impassable due to wet conditions. This inaccessibility created hardships for farmers trying to send produce
               to Norfolk markets.


                    Princess Anne residents continued to rely on the natural waterway for regional transportation
               from the 1700's until the mid 1800's. Construction of two canals began in Princess Anne during this period.
               Another canal project was started by the Kempsville Canal Company to connect Lynnhaven Bay, but only
               eight miles of it were completed before it was abandoned.

                    The Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal which runs east to west through the center of the county
               connecting the Elizabeth River with the North Landing River was completed in 1859. This canal
               connection was used to ship produce directly to the Norfolk markets and lumber from Currituck Sound.
               The canal is still an integral part of the Intracoastal Waterway system that links New England and Florida.

                    Pungo Ferry Road is the most southerly crossing of the North Landing River. A draw bridge was first
               constructed at this crossing; it burned in the Civil War and was replaced by a ferry line. By 1920, another
               bridge was placed at the waterway with a swing span section to allow the passage of boat traffic. This
               bridge was recently replaced by a high profile, arch span located on a slightly different alignment from the
               original swing span bridge-

                    The construction of the railroads in the 1880's was the next major transportation development after the
               canal system in the region's transportation network. The railroad added opportunity for the transportation
               of freight and passengers. In fact, the Bennett Boat line which ran on the canal from Norfolk to Pungo was
               discontinued once the railroad was constructed to Munden Point. A twenty-two mile branch line was
               constructed from near Kempsville through Princess Anne Court House, Pungo, Creeds and Back Bay to
               Munden Point. This line brought hunters to the clubs established in Back Bay, as well as provided transpor-
               tation for freight and local passengers. Additionally, the Virginia Beach Railroad and Improvement Com-
               pany constructed rail track between Norfolk and Virginia Beach in 1883.

                    The Norfolk, Virginia Beach and Southern Company operated steamships from their railhead
               warehouse at Munden Point to Currituck Sound. This meant produce and goods reached Norfolk in about
               one and a half hours. Access to the outer banks of North Carolina, was established by steamboat from the
               head of Currituck Sound for both passengers and freight.

                    The rail line closed in the 1940's and farmers began to use trucks to transport goods to Norfolk.
               None of the warehouses or loading facilities which served the canal or North Landing River exist
               today. The roadways which serve this area are two lane rural roads which follow the ridgelines and routes of
               the original roadways in this area.






                                North Lan&ng River Watershed Pubhc Access and Visual Assessment


                 The existing transportation system for vehicles is rural in character. The major north-south arterial is
            Princess Anne Road in Pungo and Blackwater Road in Blackwater. Pungo Ferry Road is the only east-
            west arterial that crosses the North Landing River. It connects Princess Anne Road and Blackwater Road.
            In the Northwest River watershed, Indian River Road is the east-west arterial which generally follows the              OF
            ridge above the river.

                 Most of the existing roadways a part of a network of marrow rural roads serving farms and resi-
            dences. These roads are not designed to carry high volumes of traffic; however, their rural character
            contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the region. In planning existing vehicular transportation system im-
            provements, alignment changes should be carefully planned, roadway widths determined and roadside
            landscape plans prepared with maintenance of the rural landscape as a priority.

            2.5 Conservation lAnds & Protection Status
                    (Figure 2.2)

                 The riverine wetlands of the North Landing and Northwest Rivers have been a protection priority of a
            number of public agencies and private conservation groups, most notably the Virginia Field Office of The
            Nature Conservancy (TNQ and the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). These
            organizations have launched a multi-year project to establish a refuge for rare plants, animals, waterfowl
            and plant communities. To date, TNC and DCR have jointly purchased a significant portion of the North
            Landing River wetland including 14 tracts which form the core of a 7,500 acre preserve system. Over the
            next several years, it is hoped that an additional 1000 acres will be added to the preserve system.

                 , All tracts of land owned by TNC and DCR have or will be dedicated as state natural area preserves,
            according to the Natural Area Preserves Act if 1989, Dedication provides the strongest level of protection
            for land harboring natural heritage resources through formal recognition and stringent legal safeguards
            against conversion to inappropriate uses. Opportunities for the public to learn from and appreciate and
            enjoy these natural areas are currently being explored. These conservation lands form a vital link with public
            lands within the North Landing River watershed including Stumpy Lake Reservoir, West Neck Creek Park
            and Munden Park. The level of public use within these local parks varies. The river is also part of the City
            of Virginia Beach's Scenic Waterway System.

                 One of the largest protected parcels of land on the Northwest River is the Northwest River Park
            which is owned and managed by the City of Chesapeake. A variety of recreational opportunities are
            provided here. The DCR is acquiring several key parcels of estuarine marsh and forested swamp along the
            river east of Route 160. These lands will be dedicated as part of the North Landing - Northwest River
            Preserve System. They are located in proximity to Northwest River Park and not only protect the viewshed
            of the park, but offer increased environmental education opportunities. The Northwest Wilderness Area in
            southern Chesapeake adds to the available natural recreation experiences. This Wilderness Area consists of
            180 acres in its natural condition and is located on the site of the federal Naval Security Activity, Northwest.
            All of these natural lands provide a vital link between the Albemarle-Panflico Sound and the Great Dismal
            Swamp National Wildlife Refuge to the west of the project area. These protected lands form a corridor for
            wildlife movement and protect critical habitat for many rare and endangered species.







                                     PUBLIC ACCESS PLAN & VISUAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT: For the NORTH LAN
                                                       PROTECTED LANDS OF THE NORTHWEST AND NORTH LAN[
                                                                                                                                    g
                                                                T     'a






                                                                                                                       7
                                   -X:         ;t@









                on,

                                               LEGEND


                             D           Dept, conservation & Recreation



                                         Dept. Conservation & Recreation,
                                          Proposed Acquisitions


               6;s                       Dept. of Game & Inland Fisheries
              MINI

                                         city or Chesapeake
                                                                                                                                                                                                                        L



                                         City of Virginia Beach



                                         U.S. Army Corp of Engineers



                                         The Nature Conservancy
                                                                                                                                                                                                                         I IL
                                                                                                                                                                    6

                                                 AN

                                    "721
                                     MW DepL0fCon5erVRLlon&Re--L1--I       --r
                                                                                                           p,

                                                                                                                                                                                                   @o%


              I -, 44,
                                                                                                                                                                                                               2        411-
                                                                                                                                                                                              c"
                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Of

                                7@.
              ,- let@
                                                                                                                                V.





                North Lan&ng River Watershed PubUc Access and Visual Assessment


                3.0 PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS


                     This section makes general recommendations for improved public access and to preserve the visual
                attributes of the North Landing River watershed. Opportunities for direct water access are limited by the
                physiography of the area. The visual character from the waterways, is not widely varied and changes based
                on the shoreline vegetation. Federal, state and local agencies and private interests have the opportunity to
                combine their efforts in innovative partnerships to enhance public access opportunities within this watershed.
                The local and private interests should take the lead in access development and the conservation of visual
                resources.




                3.1 Potential Use Conflicts and Levels of Use


                     Existing access to the North Landing River, its tributaries and the Northwest River include: marina
                access, boat ramps for motorized or trailerable boats, camping, bank fishing, picnicking, small non-motor-
                ized access, educational and interpretive opportunities. Some of the sites provide water access to one or
                more types of user groups. For example, marinas often provide boat ramps, a restaurant, a store and
                possibly picnicking or a beach for swimming and shoreline activities. Appropriate planning for the various
                types of user groups is necessary to avoid potential user conflicts.

                     Different recreation types typically found in this watershed may present conflicts with one
                another particularly between more active recreation and passive recreation opportunities. Conflicts
                may include safety issues, environmental issues, noise or visual issues. Many of the conflicts can be avoided
                by planning the access to be compatible with its site and the surrounding uses. Other conflicts may be
                management issues which can be addressed through management programs, education and signage.

                     The CbesQeake Bay Area Technical Assistance R2port which is available from DCR, addresses the
                site requirements and needs for various water related activities. While the North Landing and Northwest
                Rivers are not a part of the Chesapeake Bay, these guidelines are applicable. If proper site development
                guidelines are followed, user conflicts can be minimized or avoided. Site sustainability is also more likely if
                proper site analysis is conducted and the capacity of the existing resources are related to the proposed
                activities and site development.



                3.1.1 Boating Conflicts


                     The North Landing River has a high volume of boat traffic. As part of the Atlantic Intracoastal Water-
                way, it is accessible from the metropolitan Norfolk area via the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River and
                from Currituck Sound. The North Landing River is very popular for recreation power boats, water skiing
                and jet skiing. Commercial boat and large recreational boat use of this part of the waterway is substantial.
                The large numbers and types of boating traffic on the Intracoastal Waterway precludes safe accessibility for
                small fishing boats, canoes and non-motorized boats.

                     The tributary waters of the North Landing River and the portions of the Blackwater River are enjoyed





                                    North Lan&ng River Watershed Pubhc Access and Visual Assessment

               by smaller power boats and non-motorized water craft. In the areas where a variety of boating types share
               the waterway, power boats can cause safety conflicts, particularly in narrow waterways. "Use" zoning along
               narrow waterways could be implemented as a management tool to prevent user conflicts on the smaller
               tributaries of this watershed.


                     Boat wakes can be particularly detrimental to shorelines by causing disturbance of sensitive marshland
               vegetation. Excessive and frequent boat wakes, especially along the narrow tributaries, may need to be
               addressed as part of future management plans for conservation lands in these areas.



               3.1.2 Hunting and Fishing


                     There is a safety concern related to hunting in areas near other activities. Game birds and animals
               other than deer can be legally shot with shotguns from boats, but the hunter must have permission of the
               landowner on whose land the game is located. NEgratory game birds can also be hunted along these
               waterways, within the parameters of state regulation. Old duck blinds are common in the estuarine marshes
               along these waterways. The City of Virginia Beach currently allows only floating duck blinds for hunting.
               All outdoor recreationists should wear blaze orange during the various hunting seasons as a safety precau-
               tion. Fishing is a popular recreational as well as lucrative commercial activity in the North Landing and
               Northwest River watersheds. The VMRC regulates fisheries throughout the watershed. Popular fisheries
               vary from catfish, chain pickerel, crappie, largemouth bass, sunfish, and white perch in the North Landing
               River to bowfin, crappie, gar, largemouth bass, sunfish, and white perch in the Northwest River. Long poles
               or posts protruding from the water are commonly seen near the shoreline. These posts hold catfishing lines
               and are tended throughout the watersheds by local fishermen. Crabbing is another common fishery within
               the watersheds. Eel are also caught using pots which resemble crab pots from the water's surface. Com-
               mercial fishing is almost always conducted from a small to medium sized powerboat. Aconsiderable number
               of recreationists enjoy bank fishing at selected locations throughout the watersheds.



               3.1.3 Environmental Stresses


                     The Northwest River is less intensely used for recreational boating than the North Landing River.
               Fishing is the most popular activity, but its potential has diminished due to saltwater intrusions related to
               water withdrawals during droughts. Freshwater fish populations are also affected by drought.

                     Sedimentation and degradation of water quality as a result of poorly managed adjacent land uses is a
               problem for aquatic habitats and sensitive marshlands. Excessive sedimentation affects areas of submerged
               aquatic vegetation (SAV) which provides rich, diverse aquatic habitats and serve as a nursery to various







                 -'PUBLIC ACCESS PLAN & VISUAL RESOURCES ASSES MENT:
                                    for the NORTH LANDING RIVER WATERSHED
                           EXI
                                     S  TING AND POTENTIAL ACCESS SITES








                                                                                                                                                              AVA     eM   nok             di



                                                          a






                                                 0 EXISTING     0 POTENTIAL


                                              I - PR NCESS ANNE ROAD
                                              2 - OLD RAJLROAD BED
                                              3 -BUFFINGTON HOUSE
                                              4 -INDIAN RIVER ROAD BRIDGE
                                                 TRIBUTARY OFF WEST NECK CRK, RD.
                                              6 -WEST NECK CREEK MARINA
                                              7 -ELBOW ROAD BRIDGE
                                              a -GUM SWAMP BRIDGE
                                              9 - ERCER BOAT HOUSE
                                              10-OLD LANDINU.-INLYMUFMIT
                                              11-TNC OBSERVATION DECK
                                              12-OLACKWATER ROAD BRIDGE
                                              is-P
                                              14-PRXiiiMi
                                              15-POCATY RIVER
                                              16-NORTH LANDINGRIVER N.A.P.
                                              17-CAPT. GEORGE'S REST./PUNG0 FERRYFLD.
                                              is-PUNGO FERRY BRIDGE
                                              19     C
                                                -BLA KWATER CREEK STORE
                                                                                         11"ZI
                                              20-BRADLEY'S CREEK LANDING
                                              21-HEAD OF RIVER ROAD BRIDGE
                                              22-TNC BOARDWALK. MILLDAM CM11
                                              23-HEAD OF RIVER ROAD
                                              24-MUN
                                                     DEN POINT PARK
                                              25-SENECA CAMPGROUND
                                              26-CRAIGS CAUSEWAY ROAD
                                              27-BAUMROAD&INDIANC EKROAD
                                              28-NORTHWESTRI  VER PARK
                                                       1SHING HOLE


                                                            AN

                                              46.

                                                     Dept. of Conservation & Recreation
                                           :75, -,-F





                 .'!@7
                                                                                              0-1


                        .4
                                              0                4


                               Ld@l
                                                                            ;@7



                North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment                                          El I

                aquatic species. The implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) for all types of adjacent land
                uses is essential to maintain and protect the water quality of the North Landing and Northwest River water-
                sheds. While many of the conservation lands directly adjacent to the shorelines of these waterways are
                protected, upland development within the watershed could significantly alter these sensitive areas. If not
                properly managed, development within the watersheds could degrade the water quality through increased
                erosion and sedimentation.
                     Erosion along the shores of the North Landing River and the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal may in
                part be caused by the wake of commercial and recreational boats. There is significant erosion of the
                shoreline in forested areas where the canal narrows. In the broader, southern sections of the waterway,
                boat wake may be the cause for the gradual loss of bald cypress trees along the shores. Lowering of the
                boating speed limits could decrease this erosion problem. Management alternatives along sensitive shore-
                lines need to be evaluated with regard to disturbances caused by boat wakes.

                     Clianges in adjacent land uses may stress sensitive areas within the watersheds. Development may
                alter hydrology, cause flooding, or create water quality degradation which direcfiy impacts sensitive habitats.
                Land disturbance, for example, could create conditions which allow the invasion of common reed. Com-
                mon reed (Phragmites australis) is a tall wetland grass that has become a destructive weed in Virginia in
                recent years. This plant is a problem species because it can be invasive, growing at very rapid rates to
                displace beneficial wetland plants while providing little food or shelter value to wildlife. Common reed
                destroys diverse wetland communities and interferes with the ecological functions of wetland habitats.


                3.1.4 Canying Capacity


                     The North Landing River access sites and facilities experience very high usage. During the
                summer months, the existing marinas are fully occupied and the boat ramps are crowded. Munden Point
                Park is the only publicly owned boat ramp in the watershed. The North Landing River is an appropriate
                destination for recreational boaters, particularly since its waters are shared by the Intracoastal Waterway.

                     The carrying capacity of sensitive sites should be analyzed prior to development. Use or visitation
                limits may need to be established for some sites. Sites can be linked or promoted as part of a system to
                lessen the direct stress on individual sites. Also sensitive sites could be managed by reservation which limits
                the over use.



                3.2 lypes of Activities/Opportunities
                        (Figure 3.1 and Table 3.1)


                     The types of existing and potential access along the North Landing River are categorized in five areas:
                fish and wildlife related recreation; boating; greenways, bikeways and trails; park and natural area activities;
                educational and research opportunities; and cultural recreation and ecotourism. Existing access is shown on
                Figure 3.1 and described in Table 3 - 1.





                                           North Lan&ng River Watershed Pubfic Access and Visual Assessment



                                                                                 Table 3.1
                                             BaSTING AND POTENTIAL ACCESSSITES


                         Existing               Location                   Waterway           Owner          Facility
                         Potential

                         1 -Existing (Not       Princess Anne Road         West Neck          City of        Small pull off for 2 -3 cars with
                         shown of Figure        just east of the           Creek              Virginia       informal bank access to the creek.
                         4.3)                   courthouse complex                            Beach
                                                and Holland Road

                         2-Potential            Old Railroad bed           West Neck          City of        Provide a walking/bicycle trail
                                                from West Neck             Creek              Virginia       along the.railroad bed. The site
                                                Creek to Princess                             Beach          should be evaluated for
                                                Anne Road                                                    interpretive opportunities.


                         3-Existing             Daniel                     Tributary to       City of        Informal, seasonal access to West
                                                Whitehurst/Buffington      West Neck          Virginia       Neck Creek via trails.
                                                House across               Creek              Beach
                                                Princess Anne Road
                                                from the courthouse
                                                complex
                         4-Potential            Indian River Road          West Neck          City of        Access should be provided at this
                                                bridge                     Creek              Virginia       location when this bridge is
                                                                                              Beach          replaced or any road improvement
                                                                                                             is planned.
                         5-Potential            Small tributary off        Tributary to       Needs          Access was abolished at West
                                                West Neck Creek            West Neck          determin       Neck Creek Road when the new
                                                Road                       Creek              ation          bridge was constructed. This
                                                                                                             location could offer an aftemative
                                                                                                             to the previous access. This site
                                                                                                             needs further evaluation to
                                                                                                             determine seasonal usage and
                                                                                                             required dredging for suitability.
                         6-Existing             West Neck Creek            West Neck          Private        Boat Ramp
                                                Marina located on          Creek                             Bank Fishing
                                                Vaughn Road                                                  Canoe Launch
                                                                                                             30 Marina Slips
                         7-Existing             Elbow Road bridge          North              City of        Informal canoe access with
                         (Not shown on          crossing                   Landing            Virginia       parking for 2-5 cars.
                         Figure 4. 1a)                                     River              Beach

                         8-Potential            Indian River Road at       North              City of        Informal canoe access and
                                                Gum Swamp bridge           Landing            Virginia       parking for 2-4 cars.
                                                                           River              Beach





                 North Lan&ng River Watershed Pubfic Access and Valual Assessment






                    Existing             Location                Waterway          Owner         Facility
                    Potential

                    9-Existing           Mercer Boat House,      North             Private       Boat Ramp (18'concrete)
                                         3001 Mt. Pleasant       Landing                         400' dockage, rowboats,
                                         Rd., Chesapeake, VA     River                           bait/tackle, restaurant, 14 marina
                                         23320                                                   slips

                    1 O-Potential        Old Landing on          North             The           No facilities currently exist. Could
                                         Nature Conservancy      Landing           Nature        offer access from the water and
                                         Property near North     River             Conser-       opportunities for nature walks, bird
                                         Landing Road                              vancy         watching or interpretation.
                    11 -Existing         TNC Observation         At the            The           Offers an observation vantage
                                         Deck access from the    confluence of     Nature        point for canoeist or small boats
                                         water access only.      the Pocaty        Conservan     approaching from the water. This
                                                                 River with the    CY            is an excellent site for motorboat
                                                                 North Landing                   education relating to the
                                                                 River                           surrounding natural areas.
                    12-Existing          Blackwater Road         Pocaty River      City of       This informal access for canoes
                                         bridge over the                           Chesape       needs upgrading. Bank fishing.
                                         Pocaty River                              ake           Parking for 2 cars. High traffic
                                                                                                 speed causing user conflicts.
                    13-Potential         Long Ridge Road         Pocaty River      VDOT          Potential canoe access
                    14-Potential         Fentress Airfield       Pocaty River      VDOT          Potential canoe access
                                         Road

                    15-Potential         Fentress Airfield       Pocaty River      VDOT          Potential canoe access
                                         Road at Pocaty
                                         Road

                    16-Potential         North Landing River     Alton's Creek     DCR           Canoe access, walking trail and
                                         Natural Area                                            interpretive activities.
                                         Preserve (Kellam
                                         tract)
                    17-Existing          Captain George's        North             private       Transient slips (30), boat ramp
                                         Restaurant & Pungo      Landing                         (32' concrete), san" facilities,
                                         Ferry Marina off old    River                           convenience store, restaurant.
                                         Pungo Ferry Road



                  i EM i@_ Noyth Lan&ng River Watershed Pubhc Access and Visual Assessment


                          Existing                Location                   Waterway            Owner           Facility
                          Potential
                          18-Potential            Old Pungo Ferry            North               City of         This property if developed as a
                                                  Road bridge site and       Landing             Virginia        boat ramp and small non-
                                                  adjacent 6 acres of        River and           Beach           motorized boat access would
                                                  property                   Alton's Creek       and             provide the needed link for access
                                                                                                 private         adjacent to the Natural Area
                                                                                                                 Preserve on Afton's Creek. the
                                                                                                                 City proposed an ISTEA project
                                                                                                                 for the acquisition of property and
                                                                                                                 ultimate development of access at
                                                                                                                 this site. Additionally a viewing
                                                                                                                 area and walk could be developed
                                                                                                                 on the new Pungo Ferry bridge to
                                                                                                                 give excellent view opportunities
                                                                                                                 to the natural areas and provide a
                                                                                                                 pedestrian link across the North
                                                                                                                 Landing River.
                          1 9-Existing            Blackwater Creek           Blackwater          Private         Store/baft & tackle, boat ramp
                                                  Store on Blackwater        River
                                                  Road
                          20-Existing             Bradley's Creek            Blackwater          Private         Ramp
                                                  Landing Ramp on            River
                                                  Blackwater Road

                          21 -Potential           Head of River Road         Blackwater          VDOT            Potential canoe put in
                          (Not shown on           bridge                     River
                          Figure 4.5)
                          22-Existing             TNC Boardwalk off          Milldam             TNC             A boardwalk for marshlands
                                                  Blackwater Road            Creek                               observation and natural area
                                                                                                                 interpretive study. Open
                                                                                                                 periodically to the public or by
                                                                                                                 reservation.
                          23-Potential            Head of River Road         Milldam             City of         Canoe put in
                                                                             Creek               Virginia
                                                                                                 Beach
                          24-Existing             Munden Point Park          North               City of         Boat ramp, picnicking, play areas.
                                                                             Landing             Virginia
                                                                             River               Beach

                          25-Seneca               144 Princess Anne          North               Private         Over 100 camping spaces offefing
                          Campground              Road                       Landing                             both primitive sites and electric
                                                                             River                               and sewage hookups. Boat
                                                                                                                 ramp,swimming pool, bank fishing,
                                                                                                                 picnicking, tot lot, laundromat an
                                                                                                                 camp store.






                                                                                                                              11S
                North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment









                   Existing            Location              Waterway         Owner        Facility
                   Potential

                   26-Existing         Craigs Causeway       Tributary of     VDOT         Canoe access.
                   (Not shown          Road on a tributary of Milldam
                   on Figure 4.6)      Milldam Creek         Creek

                   27-Potential        Baum Road & Indian    Smith Creek      VDOT         Canoe access.
                                       Creek Road at Smith
                                       Creek

                   28-Existing         Northwest River Park  Northwest        City of      Canoe access, boat ramp,
                                       off Indian Creek      River            Chesape      picnicking, camping, nature trails.
                                       Road                                   ake

                   29-Existing         Bob's Fishing Hole    Northwest        Private      Marina, boat ramp.
                                                             River






                                 North
             ;@, fflr                    Lanifing River Watershed PubUc Access and Visual Assessment

             3.2.1 Fish and Wildlife Related Recreation


                  Fish and wildlife related recreation includes the following activities:
                     fishing
                     hunting
                     birdwatching
                     wildlife photography

                  The opportunities for fish and wildlife recreation in the North Landing River watershed is expan-
             sive due to the number of properties which are preserves or protected as conservation lands. Fishing for a
             variety of species of fish is a popular sport in the creeks and tributaries of the North Landing River. Com-
             mercial as well as recreational catfishing is prevalent on the main branch of the North Landing as well as on
             its tributaries. Eel and crab traps are also a part of the fishing activities which occur in this region.

                  Private lands are open for hunting based on land owner permission. Also, hunting from the water
             along the periphery of conservation lands and the NLRNAP is allowed. There is also a wealth of opportu-
             nities for birdwatching and nature photography which are directly related to the fisheries and wildlife re-
             sources throughout the watershed.



             3.2.2 Boating


                  Boating includes the following activities:
                     rowing
                     canoeing
                     kayaking
                     motorboating
                     sailing
                     water skiing
                     jet skiing

                  Boating facilities which accommodate the above activities include marinas, boat ramps and canoe
             launch areas.




                             3.2.2.1 Marinas
                  There are four marinas located within the approximate 35 miles of waterway along the North Landing
             River and Northwest River. These marinas include West Neck Creek Marina, Pungo Ferry Bridge Marina,
             Bob's Fishing Hole, and Mercer Boat House. TWo of these marinas are located directly on the North
             Landing River and another, West Neck Creek Marina, is located on West Neck Creek, but is easily
             accessible from the North Landing River. Bob's Fishing Hole is the only marina located on the Northwest
             River in Virginia. This marina caters to anglers and recreation boaters using the river for day trips.

                  Due to the low lying topography, additional land suitable for a marina is not readily available in the
             study area. A study for suitable marina sites was not a part of this planning process. Should additional





                Noyth Lan&ng River Watershed Pubhc Access and V11=1 Assessment z-..-

                marina sites be proposed in the study area, these should be limited to the main stem of the North Landing
                River. Boat traffic on the Intracoastal Waterway is often heavy, with peak traffic occurring seasonally. An
                influx of additional day use boats from marinas could further congest this waterway. Given the prevalence of
                sensitive lands in the watersheds, a study to determine an appropriate location and the carrying capacity of
                the portion of waterway should be conducted prior to siting or planning for an additional marina in the
                Southern Watersheds.


                     The Virginia Outdoors Survey shows motorboating as the seventh most popular activity statewide.
                Sixty-nine percent of the households surveyed in the Chesapeake recreational region indicated that they
                enjoyed motor boating as an outdoor activity. Recreationists participating in this activity did so on an
                average of 36 days per year. Based on this data, marina slips are needed to meet the recreational demand
                in the Chesapeake recreational region. Given this need and the type of water present in the upper reaches
                of the North Landing River watershed, perhaps a small, carefully designed, modem marina facility could
                meet this recreational demand. Should the development of a marina be pursued anywhere within the
                Southern Watersheds, careful evaluation and site analysis are essential to insure such a development will not
                impact sensitive environmental areas. Development of this type should involve coordination with federal and
                state agencies and organizations responsible for regulating this type of activity and for managing the conser-
                vation lands within the watersheds.


                     Some educational and interpretive information could be provided at marinas in the area and at marinas
                throughout the watershed just north and south of the study area. This would provide better appreciation for
                the uniqueness of the area to persons operating large vessels. This type of information could ftirther the
                conservation initiatives and increase opportunities for ecotourism.



                                3.21.2 Boat Ramps


                     There are at least 8 existing boat ramps along the wa     'terways. Two of these ramps are located in
                publicly owned parks, the remainder are privately operated as boat ramps or in conjunction with a marina.
                Sites which offer boat ramp access to the water include:
                        West Neck Creek Marina
                        Mercer Boat House
                        Pungo Ferry Marina
                        Blackwater Creek Store
                        Bradley's Creek Landing
                        Munden Point Park
                        Northwest River Park
                        Bob's Fishing Hole

                     Additional small boat access could be provided at the various road crossings of the waterways.
                This would increase the public access to the waters for small boats, while minimally impacting the
                surrounding lands. Parking lots near or adjacent to the bridge crossings would be necessary. Perhaps
                a public private partnership could be established at some locations to provide appropriate parking.
                Since the City of Virginia Beach owns a considerable amount of property on West Neck Creek, perhaps
                this is an appropriate location for a linear park which provides recreational opportunities including a boat
                ramp for small fishing boats and canoes.





                                 North Lant*ng River Watershed Pubhc Access and ViEsual Assessment



                  Facilities which compliment the use of the waterways by boaters exist throughout the watershed.
             These facilities include bait and tackle shops, convenience stores and small restaurants. The opportunity to
             educate boaters regarding the significance of the watershed should be considered a priority. Information
             could be disseminated to boaters including providing material or brochures at the various boater retail, outlet
             and service locations. Also, the development of water to land access for certain natural areas should be
             pursued to increase the availability of conservation lands to motor boat recreationists. For example, the old
             landing site (Site 10, Figure 3.1), located near North Landing Road in the upper reaches of the North
             Landing River and adjacent to TNC lands, could be developed as an environmental education or interpre-
             tive center which focuses on boat traffic use on the North Landing River. This site could extend the concept
             which TNC employed at the confluence of the Pocaty River with the North Landing in construction of the
             observation deck which is intended to be accessible only by small non-motorized boats.




                             3.2.2.3 Canoe Access
                  The North Landing River is not suitable for use by canoes or small non-motorized boat traffic
             due to the heavy boat traffic and size of vessel typically using this waterway. The use of the North
             Landing River as the Intracoastal Waterway makes it accessible to many in state and out of state boaters,
             but limits the safety for small boat use, especially during peak travel times. The tributaries of the North
             Landing are particularly attractive and conducive to small non-motorized boat traffic. Canoe access exists
             along most of these tributaries; however, the existing access may not provide trip opportunities or trails
             which do not involve back tracking.

                  The various canoe access points are shown on Table 3.1 and in Figure 3.1. Analysis has been
             done to evaluate trips or canoe trails existing in the watershed. Section 4.0 discusses the potential
             for specific canoe access points by river or stream reach.


             3.2.3 Greenways, Bikeways and Trails


                  Greenways, bikeways and trails includes the following activities:
                     pleasurewalking
                     walking for health
                     jogging
                     hildng
                     bicycling
                     horseback riding
                     pleasure driving

                  The North Landing River could be considered a key component to a water-oriented greenway system.
             The river is already designated as both a Virginia Scenic River and a Virginia Beach Scenic Waterway and
             Canoe Trail. The wetlands and forests abutting the waterway present miles of uninterrupted natural beauty





               North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment i-..-

               to the river traveler. These lands also offer tremendous opportunities for the development of low intensity
               recreational opportunities as part of the greenway system.

                     Access to this greenway system from the upland is limited primarily because few roadways cross the
               river and upland ridges existing adjacent to the waterway's edges are scarce. Intersecting roadways and
               access points which cross the areas waters should be included in proposed local greenway, byway or trail
               systems. These crossings are the connectors between the water-oriented and land-based activities along
               the greenway.

                     The City of Virginia Beach draft outdoors plan suggests water as a unifying theme for the plan.
               Within the city's projected plans for future development are the Landstown/Pungo Trail and the West Neck
               Creek District/Linear Park, both located near West Neck Creek in the North Landing system. These
               planned parks will enhance the greenway concept in the study area.

                     Bikeways, hiking or other recreational trails are not currently included in the southern watersheds area.
               The typical roadway in these areas is a two-lane rural section with minimal shoulders and drainage ditches
               along one or both sides. Future road improvements in this section of the city should include the addition of
               bikeways and pedestrian facilities. This is especially important on the bridges that cross the North Landing
               River and its tributaries.


                     The scenic nature of the rural road system lends itself to scenic and historic touring. The flat
               topography and the agricultural fields provide broad views for the automobile traveler. The rich
               history of this area can be designated with signage at points of interest. A local brochure outlining
               the region's cultural and historical context could be developed to inform tourists and to promote ecotourism.

                     The local scenic "byway" routes within of the North Landing watershed could connect and comple-
               ment a larger system of locally recognized scenic roads including the areas of Back Bay, Chesapeake,
               Knotts, Island, and North Carolina. Tours could be designed categorically featuring military history, archi-
               tecture, scenic views, natural areas, recreational opportunities or a combination of these resources.

                     The right-of-way for the Munden Point railway line presents a potential for recreational use. The
               proposed Landstown/Pungo Trail to be developed by the City of Virginia Beach is located within this right-
               of-way. Preliminary plans for this include paved sections for bike and pedestrian usage with a separate trail
               for equestrian use. Much of the right-of-way between Pungo and Munden Point Park has been converted
               to private control, but there may be sections which have potential as links or short trails.



               3.2.4 Park and Recreational Activities


                     Park and recreational activities include the following:
                        camping
                        picnicking
                        field sports
                        attending special events
                        festivals





                                   North Landng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment



                    Previous studies and reports have examined the recreational resources along the North Landing
               River its tributary systems. The Southeastern Virginia District Planning Commission prepared a The'Vir-                  M
               ginia Beach Scenic Waterway Plan" in 1985, followed by the "Waters of Southeastern Virginia" in 1988,
               both of which addressed the development of scenic waterways and recreational trail systems. West Neck
               Creek was studied in 1991, by a consultant to the City of Virginia Beach, Department of Parks and                        M
               Recreation. Their study proposes several development plans along West Neck Creek. This study focuses
               on the relationship of those highly-developed access points and parks with the NLRNAP and how all these
               resources are interrelated in a system.

                    The parks within the Southern Watersheds provide significant regional and local recreational facilities
               and public access to the waterways. Munden Point Park, Northwest River Park, the proposed West Neck
               Creek Park serve as major access points and provide a variety of leisure and recreation activities. In
               addition to providing facilities for popular recreational activities, these publicly owned parks and natural
               areas could serve as focal points for special river or watershed events. These facilities in combination with
               the small, informal access sites throughout the watersheds provide the majority of access opportunities.


                               3.2AI Camping
                    There are only two opportunities for camping within the study area. Seneca Campground, a private
               campground located off Princess Anne Road, offers both primitive camp sites and camping with electrical
               and sewage hookups. A total of 100 camp sites are currently in use at Seneca Campground where visitors
               can enjoy boating and fishing opportunities along the North Landing River. A boat ramp, bank fishing
               opportunities, swimming pool, picnic areas, recreation room, laundry and camp store provide camping
               amenities.


                     The Northwest River Park provides public camping in the 96 acre park. Regionally significant, the
               Northwest River Park offers opportunities for canoeing, bank fishing, boating, and hiking or bicycling the
               trails to overnight visitors. The park also provides numerous interpretive and educational opportunities
               featuring the rich biodiversity of the area.

                    With the North Landing River and Northwest River watersheds being such scenic and diverse a
               region, additional camping could enhance ecotourism in the area by allowing visitors to intensify their experi-
               ence by spending more time in the out-of-doors. The 1992 Virginia Outdoors Survey indicates that state-
               wide camping is the tenth most popular outdoor activity. There is an opportunity for camping to extend
               ovemight accommodation options in the area. Bradley's boat rarnp is the site of several old fish carnp type
               cabins which are located along the shoreline of Blackwater Creekjust south of Blackwater Road. These
               cabins were apparently condemned by the City of Virginia Beach due to improper handling of sewage. If
               alternative sanitary facilities were provided in self contained units and the cabins were renovated to meet
               code requirements, then these facilities could provide a rustic experience along the banks of the Blackwater
               Creek. This location on Blackwater Creek provides great fishing access as well as access to large portions
               of natural areas owned by TNC and DCR. Trips up river in small boats from this location provide wonder-
               ful views of the river and marsh systems as it narrows to the headwaters.





               North LamUng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment

               31.5 Environmental Opportunities


                     Environmental opportunities include the followmg:
                       environmental education/interpretation
                       nature observation
                       research
                       ecological management
                       biological monitoring




                               31.5.1 Environmental Education/Interpretation


                     The parcels along the North Landing River and the Northwest River which are either in private conser-
               vation or public ownership form a natural greenway system of national significance. When combined with
               the Dismal Swamp and Back Bay, this area is considered the largest continuous natural area east of the Blue
               Ridge Mountains. In fact, this natural environment is renowned for its richness and biological diversity.

                     Opportunities for environmental education and interpretation are numerous within the two watersheds
               and as yet relatively untapped. Natural areas and other conservation lands serve as outdoor classrooms for
               students of all levels, from grade school through college. These lands are an important teaching resource to
               fill the need for contact with the natural world.


                     Education and interpretation may range from self guiding trails with on-site kiosks and interpretive
               brochures highlighting particular features to the development of a "Backyard Classroom Program" curricula
               for the public school system. Creative educational opportunities may include water-related facilities aimed
               at reaching the boating public.


                       Limited use of the natural areas within the watersheds by college students and professionals is
               currently being rnade. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers uses a site off Blackwater Road for wetland
               delineation training. Appropriately designed access in these systems would increase the sensitive use by
               local educational institutions and professional groups. Certain school groups are currently utilizing the area
               as well. Rosemont Woods Elementary School, which is located in the northern portion of the North Land-
               ing River watershed has developed a small trail system and uses the area surrounding the school as an
               informal classroom.


                       The Nature Conservancy has developed two public access sites on the west side of the North
               Landing River. These facilities are a boardwalk on Milldam Creek and a water access observation deck at
               the confluence of the Pocaty River and North Landing River. The Virginia Department of Conservation and
               Recreation is planning a public access interpretative facility for the Alton Creek area. Additional opportuni-
               ties for environmental interpretation exist throughout the watershed.

                       Outreach is necessary to inform the active boating recreationists along the waterways. To reach a
               larger populous, interpretative brochures could be developed for distribution at marina and boating retail
               outlets. Kiosk-type displays developed in conjunction with advertisers of boating products could, if appro-





                                  Noith Lan&ng River Watershed PubUc Access and Visual Assessment


             priately implemented, inform users of the watershed's special values and sensitive resources.

                   Because the Intracoastal Waterway is used by great numbers of boaters annually and many of these
             boaters are from outside the region, a program to reach these recreationists could further enhance the
             conservation and protection efforts for this watershed. Such a program may include contacting the persons
             making the maps for the Intracoastal Waterway and adding information relating to the watershed where
             appropriate. Also advertisements in the Boaters Almanac. a publication of marinas and boating facilities
             could inform those outside the region of the opportunities within the watershed. Educational and interpre-
             tive opportunities can be expanded with the addition of information in these and other widely distributed
             publications. The local distribution of pamphlets, incorporation of some interpretive displays on selected
             sites, and the advertisement of special educational and interpretive programs through the local parks and
             recreation departments or other organizations may provide opportunites to increase public awareness.




                              3.2.5.2 Nature Observation



                     Adults as well as children have a great interest in observing nature. Numerous wildlife clubs, birding
             clubs, native plant and garden clubs frequent natural areas. These areas are conducive to hiking, nature
             study, nature photography, wildflower observation and bird watching. The natural areas on the North
             Landing and Northwest Rivers make this area an attractive place to live and visit. They may, with appropri-
             ately planned public access,contribute to the economic health of the region through ecotoufism. Recent
             studies have shown that bird watchers in the Cape May, NJ area contribute over $5 million annually in the
             region on birding related activities.





                             3.2.5.3 Research


                     In this day of tremendous technological advancement, there can be no question of the value of basic
             scientific research. The natural areas within the watersheds are resource materials from which new knowl-
             edge can be derived. As scientists learn more about the natural world, they are increasingly aware of what
             we will lose with the impending destruction of natural communities. The loss in real wealth by the extinction
             of living organisms is beyond comprehension. Numerous studies are underway in the watersheds to under-
             stand the biology and the life history of rare and endangered species. Hydrologic and fire history research is
             being conducted in the North Landing River. This research will provide a better understanding of the
             ecological forces influencing this estuarine wetland ecosystem and may ultimately help resolve water quality
             and ecological management problems.












                                                                                             F.777777v_c@@- Z7

                                                                                                                                                                                                    7
                   YUBLIC ACCESS PLAN & VISUAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT:,
                                     for the NORTH LANDING RIVER WATERSHED
                   ICULTURAL, RECREATIONAL & VISUAL RESOURCES



                                           z










                                                                                                                                                               AV




                                                                                                                                                              OF
                                                                                                                                                                                              Az'                                               Owl


                                                 LEGEND
                                                                                                                        V;
                             17-
                                                                            b",



                                                            RESOURCES &
                       Z               POINTS OF INTEREST:
                                      CULTURAL & VISUAL



                                           SCENIC FEATURES & RECREATIONAL
                                           OPPORTUNITIES


                                           HISTORIC BUILDINGS. SITES. &
                                           POINTS OF INTEREST



                                       GREENWAYS. BILEWAYS & BYWAYS:


                                    ---NORFOLK. VIRGINIA BEACH &
                                           SOUTHERN RAILROAD RIGHT OF WAY



                                           BYWAYS



                                                                                                                                                                                                                         41








                                                                                                                                                                                                     4
                                                   /N\
                   - za.
                                           k
                                                                                                                          ta
                                             DePL Of Conservation & Recrea Ion





                                                                                                        u@

                                                                                                                                 zli@pmw



                                                                                                                                                                      col@
                                                                                                                                                                       097



                                                                        ZtL
                                                                                                                                                                                                  Al

                         4
                                                                                                    12                 16          20 Kilometers                                                                                 v-


                                                                                                                                                                               @7





               North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Ass                      essment z.-

                                3.2.5.4 Ecological Management


                        Long-term preservation of the natural areas and endangered species found in these watersheds
               requires c'ontinual management and protection. Acquisition, natural area preserve dedication and other
               protected status does not ensure long-term preservation in the absence of proper management. The over-
               riding objectives of management and protection of the North Landing and Northwest River wetlands are to
               prevent unnatural disturbances and to restore natural conditions to the extent possible. Restoration of
               natural conditions is important in preserving Virginia's natural diversity and preventing further degradation of
               areas. Ecological management projects currently underway in the Watersheds include removal and control
               of invasive species such as Common Reed and the reintroduction of fire as a natural process. These
               projects require careful planning, trained staff, and proper equipment to fully implement. As many as fifteen
               different agencies and conservation organizations are involved in these projects which serve as models in
               land management for natural resource managers throughout this region of the coastal plain.




                               3.2.5.5 Biological Monitoring


                       These natural areas serve as check areas in studies relating to air, water, and soil pollution. Biologi-
               cal monitoring programs of natural communities, species, air, and water provide valuable information on the
               efficacy of management programs and how well of the quality of the surrounding environment is being
               maintained.




               3.2.6 Cultural Recreation and Ecotourism
                       (Figure 3.2 and Table 3.2)


                     Cultural recreation and ecotourism. includes a myriad of activities and may incorporate activities from
               various categories into recreation options. Included among the activities in this area is sight-seeing and
               visitation of historic sites (rable 3.2 and Figure 3.2)

                     There is the potential for this area to attract visitors based on cultural history. A diversity of cultural
               topics ranging from eighteenth century agricultural architecture to a history of the engineering of the
               Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal exist. Sites related to military conflict and strategy, native peoples,
               colonial settlement and early transportation systems may interest travellers. In fact, studies show that seniors
               will stay an extra, unscheduled day in an area which offers a variety of historical attractions.

                     It is important to link the natural resource opportunities available along the North Landing and North-
               west Rivers with other resources available locally. In addition to the city parks, state parks, and federal
               refuges, local museums, amusement parks, and recreational facilities should be linked through literature and
               trail routes. Marketing efforts for the watershed should include a local, regional and interstate approach due
               to the uniqueness of the landscape and variety of recreational opportunities which offer tourist attractions.





                                              North Landng River Watershed Pubfic Access and Visual Assessment


                                                                                      Table 3.2
                                                    CULTURAL AND VISUAL RESOURCES




                            # Dev                Location                   Waterway/                     Owner                         Feature/
                            # Und                                              Feature                                                  Facility

                          1 - U          2402 Holland Road            West Neck Creek             Private                      Thomas Lovett House,
                                                                                                                               ca. 1790, potential for
                                                                                                                               eligibility to National
                                                                                                                               Register of Historic
                                                                                                                               Places

                          2 - D          Princess Anne &              Princess Anne               City of Virginia Beach       Princess Anne
                                         North Landing Roads          Historic District                                        Courthouse was built in
                                                                                                                               1820 as the sixth
                                                                                                                               location of the county
                                                                                                                               courthouse.

                          3 - U          N. Landing Road              Princess Anne               City of Virginia Beach       Daniel Whitehurst
                                         across from Princess         Historic District                                        House, currently called
                                         Anne Courthouse                                                                       the Buffington House.
                                                                                                                               ca, 1793. Extensive
                                                                                                                               grounds still intact.

                          4 - U          4152 Blackwater              Pocaty River                Private                      Gresham Farm on
                                         Road                                                                                  Gresham Hill, ca. 1790-
                                                                                                                               1830. Well preserved
                                                                                                                               Federal style house is a
                                                                                                                               good candidate for the
                                                                                                                               Federal Register.
                                                                                                                               Cemetery of Gresham
                                                                                                                               and Ives families.

                          5 - U          4151 Blackwater              Pocaty River                Private                      Stuart Ives House, ca.
                                         Road                                                                                  early 1 800's. House on
                                                                                                                               first land grant bought by
                                                                                                                               Timothy Ives in 1671
                                                                                                                               from John Marshall.

                          6 - U          1489 Princess Anne           North Landing River         Private                      Anthony Fentress
                                         Road                                                                                  House, ca. 1765. The
                                                                                                                               Fentress family
                                                                                                                               descended from Fred
                                                                                                                               Fentris who came to the
                                                                                                                               area in 1651.





                   North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Yhual Assessment;-.-.@-


                        # Dev              Location                  Waterway/                   Owner                      Feature/
                        # Und                                         Feature                                                Facility

                      7-D            2200 Princess Anne                                  Private                    Nimmo United Methodist
                                     Road                                                                           Church, ca. 1791.
                                                                                                                    Church served as a
                                                                                                                    Federal Hospital and
                                                                                                                    housing for Union troops
                                                                                                                    during War Between the
                                                                                                                    States.

                      8 - U          Pleasant Ridge Road       Beggars Bridge            City of Virginia Beach     Site of bridge identified
                                     at Beggars Bridge         Creek                                                on map provided to
                                     Creek                                                                          Benedict Arnold when
                                                                                                                    commanded British
                                                                                                                    forces in 1781 in attempt
                                                                                                                    to stop trade of tobacco
                                                                                                                    for arms.

                      9 - U          4080 Charity Neck         Dawley Comers             Private                    Charity United Methodist
                                     Road                                                                           Church was established
                                                                                                                    in 1789 by James and
                                                                                                                    Wm. Dawley. Francis
                                                                                                                    Asbury, founder of
                                                                                                                    Methodism, noted
                                                                                                                    Nquarterly meetings at
                                                                                                                    Dawley's Meeting
                                                                                                                    House,'

                      10-U           685 Princess Anne         North Landing River       Private                    The first Baptist services
                                     Road                                                                           in Virginia Beach were
                                                                                                                    held on a barge in the
                                                                                                                    N. Landing River. The
                                                                                                                    first Baptist church
                                                                                                                    building was built in
                                                                                                                    1764, and that
                                                                                                                    congregation later
                                                                                                                    established at this site.

                      11 - U         3173 Land of                                        Private                    Ca. 1750 and 1780 1-
                                     Promise Road                                                                   house. Very few
                                                                                                                    changes have been
                                                                                                                    made to this 18th
                                                                                                                    century house and it
                                                                                                                    would be a good
                                                                                                                    candidate for the
                                                                                                                    National Register.
                      12 - U         Chesapeake and            Albemarle and             US Army Corps of           Steam Dredges were
                                     Virginia Beach            Chesapeake Canal          Engineers                  used in 1858 to
                                                                                                                    excavate the canal
                                                                                                                    which linked the
                                                                                                                    Southern Branch of the
                                                                                                                    Elizabeth River with the
                                                                                                                    North Landing River.





                                            Noith Lan&ng River Watershed Pub& Aeeess and Visual Assessment




                             Dev               Location                  Waterway/                     Owner                       Feature/
                             Und                                           Feature                                                  Facility

                         13 - U         Munden Point Road           North Landing River        City of Virginia Beach     Terminus of the Bennett
                                                                                                                          Steamboat Line and
                                                                                                                          terminus of the 'Munden
                                                                                                                          Point Line' of the
                                                                                                                          Norfolk, Virginia Beach
                                                                                                                          & Southern Railroad
                                                                                                                          Company

                         3 - D          N. Landing Road             West Neck creek            City of Virginia Beach     A series of walking trails
                                        across from Princess                                                              has been constructed in
                                        Anne Courthouse                                                                   the woods on the
                                                                                                                          grounds of this historic
                                                                                                                          home.

                         13 - D         Munden Point Road           North Landing River        Chy of Virginia Beach      Munden Point Park -
                                                                                                                          Public park with picnic
                                                                                                                          facilities and public boat
                                                                                                                          ramp.

                         14 - D         Indian Creek Road           Northwest River            City of Chesapeake         Northwest River Park -
                                                                                                                          Public park with picnic
                                                                                                                          facilities, camping
                                                                                                                          facilities, shoreline
                                                                                                                          fishing,trails and
                                                                                                                          walkways.

                         15 - D         Pungo Ferry Bridge          North Landing River        City of Virginia Beach     Highest overtook in
                                                                                                                          Virginia Beach with
                                                                                                                          exceptional views of
                                                                                                                          North Landing River
                                                                                                                          watershed.

                         16 - D         Battlefield Boulevard       AJbemarle and              Department of Game         Great Bridge Locks Park
                                                                    Chesapeake Canal           and Inland Fisheries/      has two public boat
                                                                                               City of Chesapeake         ramps and provides for
                                                                                                                          fishing from the banks in
                                                                                                                          addition to picnic
                                                                                                                          facilities in the park.

                         17 - U         Blackwater Road             Pocaty River                                          Pocaty River is
                                                                                                                          designate by the City of
                                                                                                                          Chesapeake as part of
                                                                                                                          their Scenic Waterways
                                                                                                                          System. Potential
                                                                                                                          designated canoe trails
                                                                                                                          both up and downstream
                                                                                                                          from put-in at Blackwater
                                                                                                                          Road.





                     North Lan&ng River Watershed PubUc Access and Visual Assessment




                          # Dev                Location                   Waterway/                      Owner                        Feature/
                          # Und                                             Feature                                                   Facility

                        18-D            Indian River Road,          West Neck Creek                                          West Neck Creek is
                                        Princess Anne Road,                                                                  designated as part of the
                                        Shipps Corner Road,                                                                  Scenic Waterway
                                        etc.                                                                                 System by the City of
                                                                                                                             Virginia Beach and the
                                                                                                                             State. It is also the first
                                                                                                                             designated non-motor
                                                                                                                             boat trail in the City,
                                                                                                                             linking North Landing
                                                                                                                             River and Lynnhaven
                                                                                                                             Bay.

                        19 - D          Sandbridge Road             Back Bay                     US Department of            Back Bay National
                                                                    Atlantic Ocean               Interior, Department        Wildlife Refuge has
                                                                                                 of Fish and Wildlife        access to the Atlantic
                                                                                                                             Ocean and to Back Bay.
                                                                                                                             There is an
                                                                                                                             environmental education
                                                                                                                             center and many trails
                                                                                                                             for hiking.

                        20 - D          Sandbridge Road             Back Bay                     Commonwealth of             False Cape State Park
                                                                    Atlantic Ocean               Virginia, Depaitment        is between the Atlantic
                                                                                                 of Conservation and         Ocean and Back Bay.
                                                                                                 Recreation                  Camping facilities and
                                                                                                                             hiking trails.

                        21 - D          Route 615                   Back Bay                     US Department of            Princess Anne
                                                                    North Landing River          Interior, Department        Management Area is a
                                                                                                 of Fish and Wildlife        recent consolidation of
                                                                                                                             several wildlife refuge
                                                                                                                             areas. Education facility
                                                                                                                             and trails.

                        22 - U          Blackwater Road             Blackwater Creek             Private                     Potential designated
                                                                                                                             canoe trail with access
                                                                                                                             at Head of River Road
                                                                                                                             and Blackwater Creek
                                                                                                                             Store and Bradley's
                                                                                                                             Landing.
                        23 - U          Pungo Ferry Road            Alton's Creek                Commonwealth of             Potential canoe trail from
                                        and Blackwater Road                                      Virginia, Depanment         new access and
                                                                                                 of Conservation and         education trails at North
                                                                                                 Recreation                  Landing River Natural
                                                                                                                             Area Preserve site off
                                                                                                                             Blackwater Road to
                                                                                                                             potential put-in at
                                                                                                                             abandoned Pungo Ferry
                                                                                                                             Road site.



                 12 MM                     North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment






                          # Dev              Location                  Waterway/                    Owner                      Feature/
                          # Und                                          Feature                                                Facility

                        24 - U         Indian River Road,        North Landing River                                   Potential canoe trail from
                                       Elbow Road                                                                      Rosemont Forest
                                                                                                                       Elementary School to
                                                                                                                       main stem and at Salem
                                                                                                                       Road on tributary.

                        25 - U         Indian Creek Road         Northwest River            City of Chesapeake         Potential canoe trails
                                       and Route 168                                                                   either up or downstream
                                                                                                                       from Indian Creek,
                                                                                                                       adjacent to Northwest
                                                                                                                       River Park.


                       26 - U          Sandpiper Road            Atlantic Ocean             City of Virginia Beach     Little Island Park
                                                                                                                       provides ocean beaches
                                                                                                                       for swimming and a
                                                                                                                       picnic area near the
                                                                                                                       Coast Guard Station.





                North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Vhual Assessment

                3.3 Visual Considerations


                      The North Landing River has been designated a state and local scenic resource. The natural land-
                scape of the marshes and forested swamps is not often encroached by development throughout the water-
                shed. Because of the flat topography surrounding the waterway, vistas are long or are abbreviated only by
                vegetation which hugs the shoreline. The overall context of the watershed provides a marvelous natural
                setting and should be preserved to maintain the visual integrity of the region. Visual experiences can be
                categorized as from the land to the water or from the water to the land.



                3.3.1 Land Views - R     iver Crossings


                      Views from the land to the waters within the Southern Watershed are limited due to the relatively few
                numbers of bridge crossings and type of land adjacent to the shoreline. Most areas are generally sur-
                rounded by forested swamp which blocks the views; however, at each crossing of the river there is an
                opportunity to view the waterway. New bridges planned or old bridges replaced should provide opportuni-
                ties to view the diverse waterways from the bridge structure and its approaches. To best achieve this, new
                bridges should be planned with open rail parapets to facilitate better views from the road to the water.

                      The most spectacular vantage point of the North Landing River is from the new Pungo, Ferry Bridge
                crossing; however, the current bridge design does not allow either vehicular or pedestrian access. The
                existing bridge could be altered to accommodate a scenic pullout and pedestrian viewing area.



                3.3.2 lAnd Views - Public Parks


                      Munden Point Park and Northwest River Park each offer a great deal of actual waterfront access to
                the park visitor. It is important to protect the visual integrity as it is viewed from these parks. This may be
                done through outright purchase of land or through visual or conservation easements placed on the properties
                adjacent to or across from these parks. The Virginia Outdoors Foundation accepts easements which limit
                the visual changes to significant properties.



                3.3.3 Water Views


                      From the water, the viewer is most often able to see the marshes and wetlands surrounding the
                waterway. The viewsheds from the water vary depending upon the vegetation type closest to the river.
                Along the tributary waters, deciduous forested swamps come right to the water's edge, limiting the open
                view primarily to the channel and along the shoreline. This predominance of foreground views creates a
                closed corridor when boating these gentle waterways.

                      Both the North Landing and the Northwest Rivers have extensive marsh vegetation near their
                confluence. The height of the grasses and rushes allow much longer views extending from the water in the
                foreground to treed areas or farmland in the middleground and background view. The vistas from the





                                  North Landing River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment
                                                                                                                                       0@
             southern reaches of the North Landing actually allow for a foreground, middleground, and background
             setting-

                  Evidence of suburban or urban development is minimal along these waterways. Generally manipulation
             of the landscape is evident only at road crossings and the few high areas adjacent to the waterway. Travel-
             ling north up the North Landing River, Munden Point area is visually the most settled and developed from
             the waterway. In the northern section of the North Landing River, visual intrusions when travelling the
             waterway include existing residences. Farming activity is visually evident throughout the watersheds.
             Because of the extensive wetlands within the Southern Watershed there is little potential for construction to
             occur outside already developed areas.

                  Land management practices can have an effect on the visual experience. Areas which are cut for
             timber or developed for homes or businesses have a major visual impact. The pine bark beetle infestation
             within this region has effected logging related salvage of timber. Maintenance of buffers between the clear
             cut areas and the river's edge may help to mitigate the visual impact from the water.



             3.3.4 Water Views - Crossings


                  Additional or changed river crossings impact the views from the water. For example, the new Pungo
             Ferry Bridge has an entirely different visual effect than the old swing span bridge. It's height makes it visible
             from a great distance and a visual focal point from the water. As new roadway bridges are constructed,
             aesthetic considerations should be incorporated into the bridge design.

                  The new Virginia Power powerline crossing at West Neck Creek could drastically change the visual
             character of this area. Power rights-of-way are generally cleared of all vegetation and kept in that condi-
             tion for ease of access. Introduction of lower height native vegetation types in the right-of-way may help
             disguise the intrusion into the forest. Minimization of either land disturbance or vegetation removal should
             be a goal for utility crossing projects. The use of native plant materials for vegetative restoration could
             lessen the visual impacts and maintain a diversity of plant materials in the region.





               North Lan&ng River Watershed Pubhc Access and Visual Assessment

               4.0 RIVER SEGMENTS


               4.1 North Landing River
                       (Figures 4. 1A, 4. 1B and 4. 1 Q
               4.1.1 Location and Natural Resources
                    The North Landing River covers 22 miles in its north-south traverse, flowing southerly from
               Chesapeake and Virginia Beach into North Carolina and Currituck Sound. The river supports some
               of the most diverse and unspoiled wetlands in Virginia, characterized by extensive forested swamps,
               marshes, and pocosins. The river drains approximately 72,000 acres of land and the watershed is consid-
               ered rural in character. The primary land use is agriculture with soybeans, field com, and wheat being
               predominant crops. Residential, industrial, and commercial development have largely been concentrated
               along the northern fringes of the watershed but are moving southward. The Intracoastal Waterway follows
               the main stem of the river and is connected with the Chesapeake Bay through a canal and lock syst  em in
               Chesapeake.

                    Natural area inventories of the watershed conducted by the Virginia DCR's Division of Natural
               Heritage have identified the wetlands of the North Landing River as an exemplary riverine ecosystem
               providing significant habitat for rare and endangered plant and animal species. The area is one of the most
               biologically diverse regions of the state supporting 50 rare species and four exemplary natural communities.

                    The wetlands along the northern section of the river are characterized by deciduous forested
               swamp. The swamp is dominated by bald cypress, black gum, black willow, and red maple. One of
               Virginia's largest heronries is found here. Hundreds of Great Blue Herons and Great Egrets roost and nest
               in the trees of this remote swamp and can be seen feeding along the extensive marshes of the river and in
               the shallow waters of Stumpy Lake. More elusive species of the swamp forest include the state endan-
               gered Canebrake Rattlesnake, the federally threatened Dismal Swamp Southeastern Shrew, Eastern Big-
               earred Bat, and globally rare plants such as Dwarf Trillium and Epiphytic Sedge.

                    Marsh vegetation becomes more extensive as one travels southerly along the river. The marshes
               are fresh to slightly brackish and are influenced by the hydrologic regime of the river and wind tides.
               Prevailing winds from the south and east push sea water through Currituck Inlet and farther northward
               creating irregular water level fluctuations and influencing the development of marsh vegetation along the river.
               Cordgrass, needlerush, and sawgrass, dominate along the water's edge. Southern cattails, bulrushes, and
               spikerushes are more characteristic of the interior marshes. Overall these marshes are quite diverse and
               over twenty rare or uncommon species have been documented from them. Many rare plants reach their
               northern range limits here, utilizing Currituck Sound as a corridor for movement northward.

                    In the interior of the wetland ecosystem, where peat deposits are deepest, pocosins and Atlantic white
               cedar swamps are found. Pocosins are considered an endangered community type in Virginia. These
               peatlands are characterized by knee-high shrubs in the heath family, greenbrier, rare orchids, and sedges.
               Trees are scattered, usually stunted, and include Atlantic white cedar, pond pine, sweet bay, and red bay.
               Delicate rarities such as spreading pogonia occur in the low herbaceous openings. These wetlands are
               referred to locally as "juniper bogs" because they once supported large stands of Atlantic white cedar.
               Today, less than 30% of this community remains in its natural state throughout the southeastern coastal
               plain of the U.S.. Much of what remains is threatened by fire suppression, ditching and draining for







                                                           Flizure 4.1a
                                NORTH LANDING RIVER. (N.section)
          Public   Access Plan & Visual Assessment: for the North Landing River Watershed

                                                                                             -A r.1
                       .g'
                       .g"
                      IN 1"                                                     -D





                                  -Zi
                                      g

                                                                                               Y
                                                                                                 "A

                                                                                              N
                                                                                               5
                                                                                               9


                                                                         ,2"


                                                                           vg










                         0@
                                                                                       3
                                                f
                       'C'E"                                                          g
                                                                                                         N,

                                                                                         I U



                    'MEN
                                    'rh
                                                                           __0 _t4
                                                                              Z
                                                                                             V,
                                                                                                 40'
                                                                          Z.5 iR, E
                        N"
                                     'nr

                          @i 7
                                                                             Z
                                                                                                         @Q







                               0,


                                                              0                       1 miles
                                                          S.1.1mlles                            /N\
            Access Sites:                          LEGEND
            (A) Gum Swamp Bridge          Mercer Boat House (Go Old Landing, TNC Property
            Existing:                              Potential:                                Property Ownership:
                Bank Fishing                       ".Canoe/ Non -motor I zed Access          -The Nature
                                                         Interpretive/Educational                Conservancy
                                                         Opportunity
                Marina                                   Bicycle Routes                 Note: Potential access sites
                Historic Sites/Museunis                  Scenic Drives                       I & 7 are not shown on
            RD  Boat Launch Sites                                                            this figure. See Figure 3.1
            n\P, Parking                                 Parking
                Restrooms
                Commercial Store/Restaurant                                      02 Department of Conservation & Recreation






                                                                                 Figure 4. 1 b
                                             NORTH LANDING RIVER (center sectiW
               Public Access Plan & Visual Assessment: for the North Landing River Watershed

                             4,



                                                 Z


                                                                                                                _51,  1,                       m
                                                          n@
                                                                                                                     _Eli
                                                                                                                                              N.. -mt
                  ;'P                    7




                                                               ,V.
                                                                                            N

                                                                                                  'T
                                                                                                                              A
                                                                                                    ts
                                                                                                           7
                                                            '_2



                                                                                                                                            R
                                                                                                                                       ME
                                                                                                                               g@,
                                        40
                                                         W4,     1 :21-  t
                                                                   A&IRï¿½R_@@ 03'@R-i                                  NA . .. ......
                                                                                                                      g


                                                                                                                                Z2                   f
                                   @W                                                                                 -5,
                                  V                           R_-
                                               Y7
                                                   '-0
                     2;
                                                                                         R
                                                                                                              @M
                               gg                                                                                                            7




                  u 1,




                                                R
                                     L
                                        x@t 'q@
                                                                                                                                                  V._

                                                       N
                                                .4
                                                                                                                                                      FILE'

                                                                                                                                                      01,
                                                                                                                                                   Ill 41b




                                             -M.
                                                 @7-



                                                                                                                   1 MI, les
                                                                               Scale of Miles                                         IN\
                  Access Sites:                                              LEGEND
                      (j@ TNC Observation Deck                               Potential:                            Property Ownership:
                  Existing:                                                            Scenic Drives               - Army Corp of Engineers
                             Canoe/ Non-motorized              Access                                              -Dept. of Conservation &
                             Interpretive/Educational                                  Bicycle Routes                  Recreation
                             Opportunity                                                                               The Nature Conservancy

                             Viewpoint


                             Historic Sites/Museums                                                                   Department of Conservation & Recreation






                                                                               Figure 4. Ic
                                               NORTH LANDING RIVER (S.section)
                  Public Access Plan & Visual Assessment: for                                   the North Landing River Watershed
                                                                                 @7-

                    74i
                                                      Z
                                                                                                            T


                                                                                                    C

                                                                                                  -,"j- A


                                                                                                              Gr"'@


                                  -4,N
                                     R4, -.2


                                                                                                      V.
                                                                                                                                                       rep
                                                                                                                       IS
                                                                                                                                          Pnjo,
                                                                                                                                                        71

                                                                                                                                                          -<%







                                                                                          Y,

                                                                                                                        A,

                                                                                                                           @7,



                  Blackwow,
                                                                                                                 777,j
                                                                                                                                       Z
                                               4-
                                                                                                                        N
                                                                                                                                                Q,


                  K
                                            LEGEND
                  Access Sites:
                    Capt. Georges Rest/Pungo marina6munden Point Park
                                                                                                                                                      t,t
                                                        Seneca campground
                    Punso Ferry Bridge
                      ting:                    Potential-
                                                             0 -motorized
                      interoretive/Educational       Canoe/N n
                  WOpportunlty                       Access
                                                     scenic Drives
                      Marina
                                                     1,,Ier
                                                         'pretlve/Educatlonal
                  M   Viewpoint                            tualty
                                                     Bicycle Routes
                      Bank Fishing                                            :C'
                                                 x   Viewpoint
                      Historic Sites/Museums                                           7
                                                     Parks/Natural Areas               -                                                    2
                      Camping                    CS  Boat Launch Site
                      Parrs/Natural Areas            Hlking/Pedestrlan
                                                  a  Access
                      Boat Launch Sites
                      HikinR/Pedestrian         Property Ownership:
                      Access                        Army Con) of Engineers
                      Parking
                                               -City of Virginia Beach
                      Restrooms                - Dept. of Conservation &
                                                    Recreation
                      Commercial Store/
                      Restaurants                   The Nature Conservancy


                                                                    /N\
                         Department of Conservation & Recreation
                                                                                                                                                            V_@
               L

                                                 1                                0                              1 mlies
                                                                            Scale of miles






                                  North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment

             alternative uses, or mining for valuable peat deposits. The best remaining pocosins in Virginia occur along
             the North Landing River north of Pungo Ferry Road.
             4.1.2 Cultural Resources                 e                                                                                  'I
                   The main branch of the North Landing River is 22 miles in length from the locks at Great Bridge
             (Figure 4. 1a) in Chesapeake to the North Carolina border. Ibis section of river demonstrates the determi-
             nation and engineering accomplishments of earlier centuries. The northern section, from Blackwater Road
             to Great Bridge, is part of the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal which was completed in 1859, just before
             the Civil War. Construction of this link between the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River and North
             Landing River was accomplished by steam dredges. This route benefited the Princess Anne farmers in the
             Back Bay and Pungo districts. The Bennett Boat Line operated a steamer from Norfolk to Pungo for
             freight and passenger transport. Opening this link also allowed direct shipment of lumber from Currituck
             Sound to Norfolk via the waterway system.

                   Munden Point (Site 24, Figure 4. 1c) is currently a park owned by the City of Virginia Beach. At one
             time, Munden Point was a central point to the shipping activity on the North Landing River. Warehouses
             and piers once stood along the shoreline and were used to load and off-load freight. After the completion
             of the Munden Point Line rail extension from Kempsville through Princess Anne Courthouse, Pungo,
             Creeds, and Back Bay to Munden Point, the Norfolk and Southern Company built warehouses at Munden
             Point and operated a steamship line which ran south to Currituck Sound, serving both passengers and
             timber interests. The railway also carried passengers heading to their hunt clubs in Back Bay.

                   The Oak Grove Baptist Church congregation, located on Princess Anne Road just south of Pungo
             Ferry Road, took that name just before the Civil War. The original congregation established itself in the area
             in 1764 and held their baptisms from a barge moored in the North Landing River. This is the second oldest
             Baptist congregation in Virginia and is considered the "mother" congregation in Virginia Beach. The current
             building was erected about 1900 and has had numerous improvements since that time.


             4.1.3 Visual Assessment
                   The North Landing River is predominantly surrounded by flat terrain. This topography limits the
             viewshed both from the water to land and from the land to water based on the existing shoreline vegetation.
             From the headwaters to the North Carolina state line, the westernmost banks of the North Landing are
             predominantly protected conservation lands. The depth of these conservation properties from the water
             inland averages one mile. The width of land combined with the marsh vegetation, particularly the deciduous
             forested swamp in the upper reaches of the river, limit the sight distance both from the land and from the
             water. While the easternmost banks of the North Landing River do not contain as many protected conser-
             vation lands, there are few visual intrusions which significantly impact the visual quality along the river
             (Figures 4.1a, 4.1b & 4.1c). North of West Neck Creek the forested swamp forms only a narrow band
             along the river's shoreline. Consequently, there is some housing which can be seen in this part of the river
             (Figure 4. 1 a). Existing housing has not incorporated a buffer along the river. To maintain the high quality,
             visual experience in the northernmost part of the North Landing River it is recommended to provide at least
             a 100 foot buffer from the river's edge. Protective easements could be implemented to protect the views-
             hed from the river and maintain the viewshed of the forested swamp.

                   Because the type of marsh changes in the southern portion of the river, the visual impression of
             the river is varied. A visual change is perceptible as one travels south of the Pungo Ferry Road bridge






                 North Landing River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment                                           M1


                 crossing of the North Landing River. The river widens and a feeling of openness increases as one
                 progresses toward the North Carolina state line (Figure 4. 1 c). Again, in the southern part of the river
                 corridor, the marsh adjacent to the river is narrower on the easternmost banks. Also, there are fewer
                 protected conservation lands on this side of the river. This being the case, river corridor planning should
                 establish development guidelines which not only protect the natural resources, but also conserve the visual
                 integrity of this portion of the river.


                 4.1.4 Existing and Potential Access
                      There are eight existing access sites on the North Landing River. Canoe access is only appropriate on
                 the North Landing River from its Headwaters to Mount Pleasant Road. On this northern portion of the
                 river, there are three existing access locations. Sites 7 and 8. shown on Figure 4.1a, provide informal
                 access for canoes. These sites could be improved as the roads and bridges are widened or replaced.
                 Mercer Boat House, site 9 on Figure 4. la, is located at the locks and serves primarily trailerable boats.
                 However, this ramp can be used as a canoe take out.

                      As stated earlier, the North Landing River south of the locks at Mount Pleasant Road is part of the
                 Intracoastal Waterway system which attracts large volumes of boating traffic year round. Non-motorized
                 boats should not enter this waterway due to the significant hazards created by the Intracoastal Waterway
                 boating traffic. A potential access site for intracoastal'boaters could be developed at the old landing (Site
                 10, Figure 4.1 a) located on TNC property in the upper part of the watershed near North Landing Road.
                 Development at this site could include a water to land interpretive or educational stop for power boats.
                 Picnicking and passive recreational opportunities could also be incorporated into the site development.
                 While the TNC observation deck is located at the confluence of Pocaty River and the North Landing
                 Rivers, it is not located in deep enough waters for most power boats.

                                    Photo 4.2a View ofPocaty Riverfrom the Nature Conservancy Observation Deck







                              North Landing River Watershed Public Access and Yhual Assessment

                Captain George's Restaurant and the Pungo Ferry Marina are collocated off old Pungo Ferry Road.
          These facilities offer power boats excellent water to land access in the central part of the watershed. Just
          across the water, the Old Pungo Ferry bridge site, if coupled with the adjacent property, could form a small
          water park which is easily accessible for all types of boating traffic. Sketch 4.1 on the following page shows
          a conceptual diagram of the potential development for this location. The 6 acres adjacent to the old bridge
          property should be considered for acquisition to enhance the functional development of this potential access
          area (Sketch 4.1). Grant funds could be pursued by the City of Virginia Beach in partnership with other
          agencies or private interest groups and businesses to purchase this property and make plans for appropriate
          access development at this location. Additionally, alterations to the new Pungo Ferry bridge, including a
          walkway hung beneath or beside the bridge, would provide an unprecedented view of the surrounding
          watershed and could enhance the use of the adjacent old bridge site for access. The Department of Game
                                          Photo 4.2b View ofPocaty in Upper Reaches


                              4@









                                       4
                                                     AL








          and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) is looking for public access in the reaches of the North Landing River and is
          interested in working with localities to obtain appropriate boating access to these waters.

               The City of Virginia Beach owns a park (Site 24, Figure 4.1c) in the southern part of the North
          Landing which is accessible from Munden Point Road. Munden Point Park offers restroom and picnicking
          facilities, active play areas and a boat ramp with ample parking for visitors and boaters. Just south of this
          park on Princess Anne Road, Seneca Campground provides a private boat ramp, bank fishing, picnic
          areas, swimming pool, recreation center, laundromat, camp store, and some 100 camping sites. The
          camping sites include primitive sites and others equipped with electrical and sewage hookups.




                                                                                          '14 M,
            North Lan&ng River Watershed Pubfic Access and Visual Assessment;-..-

                                  N&FT-H I-Atir-xt-4cf pivEF;z-,,













                           clahoc
                            fav"ch




                             picnic




                               42CII   0,66






                       Sketch4.1 North Landing River and Alton's Creek at Pungo Feryy Road






                                North Lan&ng River Watershed Pubhc Access and Visual Assessment
           4.2 Pocaty River
                   (Figure 4.2)
           4.2.1 Location and Natural Resources
                The Pocaty River flows slowly eastward for approximately six miles to the confluence with the North
           Landing River. The wetlands bordering the upper reaches of the Pocaty River are predominantly deciduous
           swamp forest. Bald cypress, black gum, black willow, and red maple form dense stands here. Bald
           cypress thrives in this swamp forest as its knees and buttressed bases make it uniquely adapted to chang-
           ing water levels. Freshwater and slightly brackish marshes form a narrow band along creek channels and
           along the river's edge at the confluence with the North Landing River.

           4.2.2 Cultural Resources
                The Stuart Ives House (Point 5 on Figure 3.2) at 1451 Blackwater Road was built in the early 1800's.
           It is a side passage, two room plan with a chimney at each end. The parcel, which fronts on Pocaty River,
           was purchased in 1671 from John Marshall by Timothy Ives. This 200 acre parcel grew to 530 acres and
           is believed to be part of the first 200 acre grant.

                The Gresham House (Point 4 on Figure 3.2) which is at 1452 Blackwater Road, has been owned by
           the1ves family since 1884. The ridge on which it is located was once called Gresham Hill. In addition to the
           structure, there is a cemetery on the property for both Ives and Gresham ancestors. The federal style house
           was built between 1790 and 1830 and is extremely well-preserved and is considered a good candidate for
           the federal register.

                At 3173 Land of Promise Road is an "I" house which was constructed between 1750 and 1780. One
           of the original eighteenth century fireplace with three flues is still in the house. A second was destroyed by
           lightning. Very few architectural changes have been made to this structure and it also would be a good
           candidate for the federal register.

           4.2.3 Visual Assessment
                The Pocaty River varies from very open at the mouth or confluence with the North Landing River to a
           very dense, closed corridor in its upper reaches (Photos 4.2a & 4.2b). Both the river's width and adjacent
           vegetation dictates this feeling of openness. West of Blackwater Road the river is narrow, approximately 20
           feet or less. This narrow width and the minimal width of the surrounding wetlands makes this part of the
           river vulnerable to visual changes. Developing a management plan for the upper reaches of Pocaty River
           will be essential to maintaining the visual integrity of this narrow stream. While the lower part of the river
           includes TNC protected lands on both the northern and southern banks, some of the properties in private
           ownership could change the river's character significantly if appropriate management of land uses and
           mechanisms such as the establishment of buffer zones or visual easements are not pursued.

                During the Spring 1993, this river was paddled by the study team to determine the status of the river's
           visual quality. At that time, the views from the river were very pristine. Since that time, a large portion of
           the timber resources on land adjacent to the river has been cut. It is likely that this timber cut affects the
           views from the river. The quality of the viewshed is dependent on the forestry practices used and the width
           of the buffer which remains along the river's shoreline. It is important to establish management practices for
           various land uses which will protect the integrity of the visual environment, particularly if ecotourism is
           introduced in this watershed.
















                                                 fell






                                                                                                         N


                                                                                                                       at




                                                                                                                     Ulf
                                                           V@, t
                                                                                                                           1,7
                                                            03-

                                                                                                         @.X
                                                                                                  17'@iij
                                                                               Q
                                                                                               kt


                                                                  jn,






                                                                                                          ;;j


                                               Figure 4.2
                                       POCATY RIVER
                        Public Access Plan & Visual Assessment:
                          for the North Landing River Watershed
               Access-Sites:               LEGEND       Existing:                                Potential:
                   TiNC Observation deck                       Canoe/Non -motorized Access               Canoe/Non -motorized Acc
                                                                                                         Scenic Drives
                   Blackwater Road Bridge                      Interpretive/Educational
                   Long Ridge Road
                   Fentress Airfield Road                      Viewpoint                                 Bicycle Routes
                   Fentress Airfield Road at                   Bank Fishing'                             Parking
                   Pocaty Road
                                                               Historic Sites/Museums




               North Landing River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment                                  EM

               4.2.4 Existing and Potential Access
                    The crossing of Blackwater Road over Pocaty River (Site 12, Figure 4.2 & Sketch 4.2) offers the
               only active canoe put-in for Pocaty River. Few opportunities exist on the Pocaty to provide a canoe trail of
               substantial length without back tracking. This existing access is essential for individuals wishing to use the
               TNC observation tower located over 1.5 miles downstream at the confluence of Pocaty River with the
               North Landing River. The use of the TNC observation deck from Pocaty River will require a back track
               trip. Depending on the wind, water and currents as one nears the mouth of Pocaty River this trip may vary
               from easy to difficult. Sites 13, 14 and 15 on Figure 4.2 could be developed as non-motorized boat access
               when the roads are improved or bridges upgraded. Any of these access sites would open the upper portion
               of Pocaty River to canoeists, forming approximately 2.5 to 3.0 miles of canoe trail from Blackwater Road
               to one of these sites.


























                                                                         ti4


















                                            Sketch 4.2 Pocaly River at Blackwater Road




           M                  North Landing River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment
           4.3. West Neck Creek
                  (Figure 4.3)
           4.3.1 Location and Natural Resources
                West Neck Creek is a major tributary located on the east side of the North Landing River. The
           wetlands of the creek south of Indian River Road are influenced by water level fluctuations resulting
                                            Photo 4.3a WhitehurstlBuffington House


                                                                                                A,









                                      17'n
                                                     T            WE


                                                                                       A,













                                                                                    u

           from wind tides. Numerous wetland communities are found here and provide marvelous opportunities to
           observe the gradient of wetland vegetation. Deciduous swamp forest occurs along the upper reaches of the
           creek. As one follows the creek southwesterly toward its confluence with the North Landing River, the
           wetlands gradually change into fresh and slightly brackish marshes, shrub swamps, and Atlantic white cedar
           swamps. A large stand of Atlantic white cedar occurs along the river just south of West Neck Creek and
           can be viewed best by boat from the eastern bank of the river. The wetlands support numerous rarities such
           as the epiphytic sedge, silky camellia, and the least bittern.

           4.3.2 Cultural Resources               I
               The Princess Anne Court House (Point 2 on Figure 3.2) at the Virginia Beach Municipal Center was
           built in 1823. This is the seventh courthouse built in what was originally Elizabeth City Shire of colonial
           Virginia. In 1637, the Shire was split and New Norfolk County was formed south of the James River.
           Lower Norfolk County built its first courthouse on Broad Creek in 1661. This was replaced with two
           courthouses in 1689, one on the Elizabeth River and one on the Lynnhaven River. In 1691, Princess Anne
           County was formed by the House of Burgess from the eastern third of New Norfolk County. In 1695, the
                                         ]XZ1



























           courthouse was again relocated near the Old Donation Church on the Lynnhaven River. In 1735, the
           courthouse moved to the Ferry, then on to New Town, then to Kempe's Landing in 175 1. In 1824, the
           court moved to Princess Anne Court House, its current location.







                      Figure 4.3                .. .....
                                                          ss                                      i:r
           WEST NECK CREEK
           Public Access Plan &
            Visual Assessment:
           for the North Landing
                River Watershed                                pgg
                                                                          A
                     LEGEND
                                                                                                                          7-
           Access Sites:                                                                                                    rL
                                                                                                                         J,@
                                                                                                                  0
             Old Railroad Bed
                                               /4
             Daniel Whitehurst House
             Indian River Road Bridge
             Tributary off West Neck Crk. Rd.
                                                          U
           $) West Neck Creek Marina                                               7.L@r, 1,@

                                                                                                              W-&
           Existing:
                                                                                                                      Yl@f
           5&@ Canoe/Non -motor lzed Access                             4
                Interpretive/Educational
                Opportunity
                                                                                                   _6@
                                                                                                                                st
                                                                                                                          A
                Viewpoint
                Marina
                                                          f
                Bank Fishing                                                P
                                                                                                                          r
                Historic Sites/Museums
           M Boat Launch Sites
                                                                                                                                 4
           OP Parking
                Restrooms
                                                                                                                                 - 797
                ntial:                                                                                                                cm
           Pote
                                                                                  Er,
                          -motorized Access
                Canoe/Non
                Scenic Drive
                                                                                                   0
                                                                                              V
                Bicycle Route
                                                                                     g,
                Bank Fishing
           T) Parking
                                                                                                            F


           Property Ownership:
                                                                                                                                     f
             The Nature Conservancy
           -City of Virginia Beach









                                                                              _RA
                                                                           --or


                                                                                                                           t


                                                   7
                                                       3,, gg,@%
                                                                    P4


                           /N

                                                                                                                       Preamnt Rge@
                                                                                                                               @h
                                                                                                                                , ",4 ) 7
                                                                                                                    i
                Department of Conservation & Recreation
                                                                                       Scaie of Miles






                North Landing River Watershed Public Access and Usual Assessment;--.-

                     During the constitutional convention of 1867, Virginia established the county form of government. In
                1870, Princess Anne County was divided into three districts, Seaboard, Pungo, and Kempsville. In 1906,
                the Town of Virginia Beach was chartered. In 1963, the two localities merged forming the City of Virginia
                Beach with its seat of government at the Princess Anne Court House. The Confederate Memorial Statue
                was dedicated on this site in 190.5. It was sculpted by Charles Walsh of Petersburg, Virginia and donated
                by the Daughters of the Confederacy.

                     The Courthouse is located in the Princess Anne Historic District designated by the city. A number of
                historic homes are located in this district including the Daniel Whitehurst House (Point 3 in Figure 3.2 &
                Photo 4.3a) located directly across North Landing Road firorn Courthouse Drive. The Whitehurst house
                was built about 1793; the date is etched on a brick in the chimney. The original house was one room below
                and two small rooms above. The outside would have been clapboard with a gambrel roof and a sloping rear
                "saltbox" roof. Changes and enlargement to the original house started as early as 20 years after it was built.
                Eventually the clapboard was replaced with Flemish style brick. The interior mantels are original as are the
                chimneys. The house was acquired by the Buffmgton family in the 1930's and is currently owned by the City
                of Virginia Beach.







                                            Photo 4.3b West Neck Creek at West Neck Creek Road




























                      The son of Daniel Vvliitehurst married Amy Lovitt whose father owned the adjoining property. Her
                grandfather built another eighteenth century house which is still standing in the area. Located at 2402
                Holland Road, the Thomas Lovett House (Point 1 in Figure 3.2) was built before 1790.Tbere was a family






                                 North Landing River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment

            quarrel after which Amy's father Reuben, changed the spelling of his last name. The house had been added
            on to carefully on at least two occasions. This is another Dutch gambrel house with two stories. It has
            double chimneys on one end and a single one on the other.


                 The Venner House is also located in this district at the intersection of Holland Road and Princess Anne
            Road. It is believed that the central portion of the house dates to the 1790's as well. The William Nimmo
            House, 2477 Princess Anne Road, was built around 1790. His wife, Anne, gave the land where the Nimmo
            Cburch is built.


                 Nimmo United Methodist Church (Point 7 on Figure 3.2) was built in 1791 on property donated by
            Anne Nimmo on Princess Anne Road. During the Civil War, it housed federal troops and a h@spital for their
            care. The church was rebuilt after the war on the original foundations; it included a "slave gallery" which is
            used as the choir loft.



            4.3.3 Visual Assessment
                 West Neck Creek is a part of the City of Virginia Beach Scenic Waterways system as well as desig-
            nated a part of the State Scenic River. This waterway is canoed frequently by locals who enjoy the natural
            corridor associated with West Neck Creek. Canoe shuttles are offered periodically by outfitters to out-
            doors enthusiasts and persons anxious to have a natural experience along this popular canoe trail.

                 While this tributary of the North Landing River is very close to developments which exist and
            are expanding rapidly in this part of southern Virginia Beach, there is currently little visual evidence of
            the development. The upper portions of West Neck Creek give a very enclosed visual impression.
            Near the confluence with the North Landing River, the vegetation changes due to the brackish influ-
            ences. South of West Neck Creek Road, the creek becomes more open reflecting the coastal marshes
            adjoining the creek banks. This area contains more bald cypress and includes the stands of Atlantic
            White Cedar.


                 Efforts need to be made by the City of Virginia Beach and developers of the West Neck Creek
            Corridor to protect and buffer the creek from intrusions which could destroy the natural setting so popular
            along this waterway. Also, there is evidence in some of the tributaries entering the upper reaches of the
            creek that large amount@ of siltation is entering the creek. It is presumed that this erosion and sedimentation
            problem is caused by developments upstream and along the tributaries entering West Neck Creek. The
            extreme amount of sedimentation observed near the Princess Anne Road and Courthouse area could over a
            period of time alter the vegetation in the stream.


            4.3.4 Existing and Potential Access
                 An existing canoe trail along West Neck Creek extends from Princess Anne Road (Site 1, Figure 4.3)
            to the West Neck Creek Marina (Site 6, Figure 4.3). Additional access at North Landing Road north of
            Princess Anne Road could extend this canoe trail. Additional take out points at Indian River Road bridge
            (Site 4, Figure 4.3 & Sketch 4.3 a) or near West Neck Creek Road bridge (Site 5, Figure 4.3 & Photo
            4.3b) would provide a publicly owned take out. An informal access for canoeists and anglers existed at the
            West Neck Creek Road bridge until it was replaced in 1992. Now that the new bridge is in place and the
            old site has been converted to a wetlands mitigation site, access at this location will need to be placed at a
            nearby tributary to West Neck Creek. Because the access site at West Neck Creek Road was such a






             North Landing River Watershed Pubfic Access and Visual Assessment






                                                        A-




















































                                          Sketch 4.3a West Neck Creek Park






                                 North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment

           popular informal site, it is essential that when the Indian River Road bridge is replaced, that plans for infor-
           mal access and parking for approximately three cars also be provided.

                 Other opportunities along West Neck Creek include the use of the Buffington House (Site 3, Figure
           4.3 & Photo 4.3a) as a potential historic destination point with a variety of interpretive or educational
           opportunities developed to complement the courthouse area and to attract visitors to this part of the City.
           Seasonal access to West Neck Creek is available from the Buffington property along a small tributary.
           Since parking would not be a problem at this site, the use of the site for educational access by schools and
           canoe groups would be appropriate. Also, further downstream, the old railroad bed (Site 2, Figure 4.3 &
           Sketch 4.3b)) could become a trail leading to the creek's edge. Perhaps this trail could link with other trails
           and become a spur in the City's Greenways and bicycle plan. An ISTEA Enhancement proposal for
           development of this trail has been submitted for a "Pungo - Park Connector Trail". This proposal (Appen-
           dix A) improves the status of greenway connections in this part of the City of Virginia Beach.






             North Lan&ng River Watershed Pubfic Access        and Visual Assessment









                                    j`




















                                             L















                                                                      Z@













                                   Sketch 4.3b West Neck Creek at Indian River Road




           El - North Landing River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment


                             Photo 4.4a Alton's Creekfrom the North Landing River NaturalArea Preserve








                                                                                                       4K




                                                                                          t


















                                         Photo 4.4b Alton's Creek Potential Canoe Access on the
                                               North Landing River Natural Area Preserve


                                                             4, 3M
                                                             t






                 North Landing River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment

                                      Photo 4.4c Alton's Creek Canoe Experience








                                                                         4







                                            '0


















                                                                                       A









                                   Photo 4.4d Alton's Creekfrom the North Landing River Natural Area Preserve










                                                           zIi






                                North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment



            4.4 Alton's Creek
                    (Figure 4.4)
            4.4.1 Location and Natural Resources
                 Alton's Creek is located along the west side of the North Landing River, just north of Pungo Ferry
            Road. The creek channel is wide and contains old oxbows and numerous meanders along its 4 1/2 miles
            length. The area provides tremendous views of emergent marshes, shrub swamps, wildlife, and waterfowl.
            Wood ducks are frequently sighted in the marshes along with delicate rarities such as elongated lobelia and
            sweet scented lady's tresses. Beyond the robust marsh vegetation, one may catch a glimpse of the rare
            pocosin community supporting scattered pond pine and Atlantic white cedar.

            4.4.2 Visual Assessment
                 Alton's Creek is an open coastal tributary (Photos 4.4a, 4.4b, 4.4c & 4.4d). The openness and
            winding character gives this creek a sense of visual vastness. The adjoining tidal marshlands allow extended
            views over the waterway. In fact, when traversing this winding stream, the glimpses of the North Landing
            River and landmarks along its waterway often serve as predominant focal points. For "ample, at several
            points along the creek, the grain silos located off Princess Anne Road on the easternmost shore of the North
            Landing and the new Pungo, Ferry bridge provide a visual point of reference. Depending on proximity to the
            Pungo Ferry Bridge, this structure predominates the landscape from the water. Alton's Creek is visually
            open almost to its headwaters which are just beyond Site 16 on Figure 4.4. This stream provides tranquil
            views of the natural landscape with virtually no interruptions due to obvious human activity on the land.

            4.4.3 Existing and Potential Public Access
                 Existing access from the land to Alton's Creek is not available. With DCR's purchase of the Kellum
            tract (Site 16, Figure 4.4) adjacent to the NLRNAP it is anticipated that canoe access will be developed at
            this location. Appendix B includes the environmental impact report for the development of this property for
            canoe access and trail development. Because the site is within a natural area, special design considerations
            which deviate from traditional recommendations typical for recreation areas are proposed. For example,
            the installation of a 12 foot gravel road are proposed in place of wider, hard surfaced parking and roads.
            Also, while the canoe access trail is long in comparison with recommended standards, its location minimizes
            the amount of wetland disrupted and canoe rest points have been designed into the walkway to allow
            canoeists a more comfortable  hike.


                 As mentioned earlier, the City of Virginia Beach could also develop the old Pungo Ferry Bridge site
            (Site 18, Figure 4.4) into an access point for both Alton's Creek and the North Landing River. The devel-
            opment of these two sites will provide excellent recreational opportunities for non-motorized boats on this
            stream and for interpretive opportunities to occur adjacent to the NLRNAP. The addition of canoe access
            at these two sites will offer a 1/2 day, novice canoe trail. The size of the sites and their location make them
            especially attractive for a shuttle or even a canoe concessionaire operation during peak use times.













                                                   o                                                                                . .....
                                                                                                          CID
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            . . . . . . . . . . . . .
                RD                  >              C'D
                            CD                               CD                                           U'3
                                                                                             CD'
                                                                        o
                                                                                                          CD

                co
                                                   AE@
                                                   p                          CD
                                                                              r-             CD                                                                                                                          '40
                                                   %Lp
                            C-D                                                              CD                                                                   @"i.Al ivl*@'
                                                                              CD
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 -XI
                RD
                            c               CD
                                                                              rfl            CD 00                                                                                                                                    M


                                    00
                            CD
                                                                              em)
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Al.
                            -04                                                                    CD                                                                                                                                                                                                WW
                                    CD      P                                                                                                                                                                                            ?V
                                    CD
                                                                                                                                                                                   -Ml
                                                                                                                                                                                        1-c
                                                                                                                                                                                          @@V"Um
                                            CD
                                                                                                                                                                        To,
                                                                                                                                                                                    1- -40-111
                                            CD                                                                                                                                                 Tu'll          Ott
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       @M




                                                                                                                                                      ...... . . ..

                                                                                                          0
                                                                                                                                                                  O!'A
                                                                                                                                                                                            -MV
                                                                                                          CD
                                                                                                                                      tj '




                                 0
                                                          00
                                                                      00
                                                                                   CD
                                                                                                 0
                                                          CD
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   tj
                                                          OL

                                                                                                                                                                                                                  IF
                                                                                   m             0
                                                                                   OL
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              if
                                                          CD





                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   12U,
                                                                                                 (D


                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              IP                        amn,
                                                          CD

                                                                                   0             CD
                                                                                   -0            (A                                                @!                  IT
                                                                                   10                                                                                                                         fit               mi-O                 IP   if it,     n
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  k&                    1         -1 1;
                                                                                   0




                                                                                                                                                    m
                                                                                                                                                  Nt'i






                North Landing River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment


                4.5 Blackwater Creek
                         (Figure 4.5)
                4.5.1 Location and Natural Resources
                      Blackwater Creek forms another major tributary to the North Landing River on the west. The
                Creek channel is wide and gently meanders for 6 miles to the confluence with the river. The upper-
                most reaches of the creek west of Blackwater Road support a picturesque swamp forest of bald
                cypress, black gum, red maple, black willow, and loblolly pine. East of Blackwater Road, the creek
                contains extensive freshwater and slightly saline marshes which grade into shrub swamps, then for-
                ested swamps of red maple, pond pine, and bald cypress. The marshes here are quite diverse and
                support many rare species. Elliot's aster, sawgrass, and elongated lobelia are but a few of the southern
                species reaching their northern range limits here. 'Me creek has numerous side channels and meanders
                providing excellent opportunities for nature observation.

                4.5.2 Cultural Resources
                      The Blackwater Trading Post is located at the creek as a point of reference. It was built between 1890
                and 1900 and was originally Mansfield's Store. It has been used by hunters and fishermen and has a boat
                ramp.


                4.5.3 Visual Assessment
                      Visually, Blackwater Creek along with West Neck Creek may be the most interesting of the North
                Landing River tributaries. There is a distinct difference in the bald cypress swamp located in the uppermost
                reaches of the river from the tidal marshes east of Blackwater Road in which their character is established
                by the vast stands of marsh grasses. The Creek is winding, particularly west of Blackwater Road, which
                adds to its visual interest. Also, few visual intrusions related to human activities interrupt the natural environ-
                ment which creates this attractive landscape. East of Blackwater Road, TNC owns a large tract of land
                located along the south shoreline of the Creek. Opposite this property on the northern shoreline is the
                NLRNAP. Both of these conservation lands protect the visual integrity of the Blackwater Creek east of
                Blackwater Road. Protection mechanisms west of Blackwater Road could be established to insure the
                retention of the scenic bald cypress swamp. Landowners could place visual easements on their properties
                in this corridor. These easements would not limit development, but would protect the quality of the view
                both from the water and for the property owners.

                4.5.4 Existing and Potential Access
                      From an access perspective, the Blackwater Creek is similar to the Pocaty in that one central
                access point is available. In fact, access to Blackwater Creek is available at the Blackwater Road bridge
                crossing over Blackwater Creek (Sites 19 & 20, Figure 4.5). Additional take out points need to be im-
                proved upstream to provide a two to three hour canoe trail. The use of Head of River Road as a take out
                (Site 21, Figure 4.5) is conducive for a one mile trip upstream in a non-motorized boat.
                      A potential canoe trail has been identified on Blackwater Creek between Head of River Road
                and Blackwater Road. Sketch 4.5 shows how potential access could be developed at Land of Promise
                Road at Blackwater Creek. This waterway is well-suited to novice canoeists because it has very little
                current, minimal wind tides, limited motorized boat traffic and no obstructions in the channel. The paddling
                length, one way, is under two miles between these two points. With minimum improvements, a vehicle pull
                out and water access could be provided at the Head of Creek Road crossing.






                                            Figure 4.5
                                BLACKWATER CREEK
                      Public Access Plan & Visual Assessment:
                        for the   North Landing River Watershed



                                                                                  00
                          A
                                               7,
                                   17
                            I


                  k,

           o e,



                                                    :19 20
                                                    ilkw
                                                      ek"
      N




     A










                                                                       I miles
                                             Scale -f  mil.                      /N\
                                           LEGEND

     Access Sites:                                  Potential:
             Blackwater Creek Store                      Scenic Drives
             Bradley's Creek Landing                ID Bicycle Routes
     Existing:                                           Hunting
             Canoe/ Non -motor ized Access               Camp i ng
             I n t e rp re t i ve /E du ca t i ona I
             Opportunity
             Viewpoint                                   Restroom
                                                    Property Ownership:
             Bank Fishing                                Department of Conservation &
             Boat Launch Sites                           Recreation
                                                         The Nature Conservancy
             Parking

      @,!Y   Restrooms
      (e)                                            Note: Potential access site 21 at Head of River
             Commercial/Store/Restaurant                  Road Is not shown on this figure.
     FzDepartment of Conservation & Recreation             See figure 3.1






                             North Landing River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment

               Bradley's Unding at Blackwater Road has enough high land that approximately 20 cars could be
          parked. A concession for renting canoes could be established with a "ferry" service to the upstream put in
          at Head of River Road for one way trips.












































                                 Sketch 4-5 Blackwater Creek at Head of River Road






               North Landing River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment;-..-                            W




               4.6 MiUdam Creek
                      (Figure 4.6)
               4.6.1 Location and Natural Resources
                    Milldam Creek is a smaller tributary along the west side of the North Landing River just two
               miles north of the Virginia and North Carolina state line. The creek gently meanders for 2 1/2 miles
               easterly to the confluence with the river. The upper reaches of the creek are quite shallow and the
               narrow creek channel meanders through a bald cypress swamp. East of Blackwater Road the creek
               channel widens and extensive marshes are found gently grading into forested swamps of pond pine
               and red maple. Similar to the wetlands along Blackwater Creek, the marshes are quite diverse and
               support numerous rare species and waterfowl.


               4.6.2 Cultural Resources
                    The Blackwater Southern Baptist Church is located at 6000 Blackwater Road at the Mill Dam
               Bridge. It was constituted in 1774 as the Blackwater Baptist Church as an offshoot of the Pungo Baptist
               Church. This site was purchased in 1856 from Henry R. Whitehurst; the church was erected in 1860.
               Additions were made in the 1950's and 1960's.


               4.6.3 Visual Assessment
                    The marshes of Milldam Creek make it similar visually to Blackwater Creek. Little develop-
               ment exists adjacent to this stream making the views true to the natural environment with little
               intrusion from man-made landscapes.


               4.6.4 Existing and Potential Public Access
                    Milldam Creek currently does not have any developed canoe access points. The boardwalk
               constructed by TNC (Site 22, Figure 4.6) offers interpretive and educational opportunities. This facility is
               open based on volunteer support by 'INC members. A possible canoe access could be developed on
               Milldam Creek at Head of River Road (Site 23, Figure 4.6). This access could offer informal parking for
               two to three cars depending on the right-of-way in public ownership or additional land acquired for public

               access.






                               Figure 4.6
                        MILLDAM CREEK
               Public Access Plan & Visual Assessment:
                 for the North Landing River Watershed

    "M

                       WWz
                 -A

                                    j


                                                            A
            R, A




                     p 2





                                                   1 miles
                               Scale of Miles              /N\


                           LEGEND

    Access Sites:                   Potential:
   # TNC Boardwalk                       Canoe/Non-motorized Access
   (4 Head of River Road                 Parking
   Existing:
       Interpret ive/Educati onal
       0 portunity                  Note: Potential access site 26 at Craigs
       Viewpoint                        Causeway Road on a tributary of
                                        Milldam Creek is not shown on this
       Hiking/Pedestrian Access         figure. See Figure 3.1.
   Property Ownership:
       The Nature Conservancy
                 gi
       City of Vir nia Beach





       Department of Conservation & Recreation






                               North anding River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment


           4.7 Northwest River
                   (Figure 4.7)
           4.7.1 Location and Natural Resources
                The Northwest River flows 13 miles in a southeasterly direction across the City of Chesapeake from
           Great Dismal Swamp to the confluence with the North Landing River at Tull's Bay in North Carolina. The
           river basin is rural in character with more than half of the area covered by undisturbed wetlands and forest
           land. Agriculture is the dominant land use throughout the remainder of the basin. The river provides an
           important source of drinking water for the City of Chesapeake.

                The Northwest River supports a diversity of wetland communities and is most noted for its exemplary
           wind tide marshes and deciduous swamp forests. Along the upper reaches of the river, the forested
           wetlands are dominated by bald cypress, water tupelo, loblolly pine, sweet gum, and red maple. 'Me
           wetlands are extensive and serene and provide an enjoyable canoeing experience. This swamp forest also
           provides important habitat for rare species such as the federally threatened Dismal Swamp southeastern
           shrew.


                On slightly elevated islands within.the swamp forest occur unusually diverse forest communities
           characterized by American beech, swamp white oak, southern red oak, red maple, and loblolly pine.
           These forested islands were never cleared for agriculture, and although they have been logged in the past,
           recovery of vegetation is complete and may represent presettlement vegetation. These forests are unusu-
           ally rich in woody species including 13  tree species, 8 shrubs, and 3 woody vines. The rare shrub silky
           camellia also occurs here.


















                                   @M,












                                                  Photo 4.7 Northwest River Park





                                                                                                                                                     @4777;

                                                                                                                                   vr,
                                                                                                                                       X-
                                                                                                                    'Al




                 .7
                                  ot,



                                                                                           M
                                              k
                                         A




                                                        71
                                                                                                                                                            iA@t re
                                                                                                                                                            a
                                                                                                               -j
                                                                     A.                  Y(7 I
                                                                                                               lk
                                   m
                                                                                                               z
                   17


                                                                    7r c
                                                                                  j7.


                                                                                                                                                    x,
                                                                                                                                        4

                                                                                                                                                S


                                                                X

                        -XI        ......
                                                                                                                                                                       N, w@


                                                                                                                                         A.

                                                  ,X

                                                                                           Z


                                                                                                                                                   4&1





                                                                                                rib.. '-I-
                        N
                                                                                                                                                                          2-T

                                                                                                                                         let
                                                                                         N






                                                                                                                                                  7
                                                                                                                                                                    om,F-

                        k

                                                  N`@

                                   A@
                                                           -Nk
                                               Figure 4.7                                            Access Sites:                      Existing:       AN
                                NORTHWEST RIVER                                                                                               Interpretive/Educatic
                                                                                                     (*Northwest River Park            ZOpportunity
                 Public Access Plan & Visual Assessment:                                             (@@OBob's Fishing Hole             ai    Marina
                    for the North Landing River Watershed                                            Note:
                                                                                                     Potential access site 27 at Baurn&
                                                                                                     Indian Creek roads is not shown          Viewpoint
                                                                                                     on this figure. See Figure 3.1
                       Department or Conservation & Recreation                                                                                Bank Fishing






                 North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Ybual Assessment;-..-

                       Extensive freshwater and slightly brackish marshes occur along the lower reaches of the river. These
                 marshes, like those of the North Landing River, are quite diverse and support large concentrations of rare
                 species. The wetlands are influenced by the hydrologic regime of the river and wind tides. Cordgrass,
                 needlerush, and sawgrass dominate along the water's edge. The interior freshwater marshes often support
                 tall robust vegetation such as cattails, bulrushes, and spikerushes. This community grades into low marshes
                 dominated by beaked spikerush, pipeworts, and twigrush. Over twenty rare plants have been recorded
                 from these marshes and several rare animals occur here including the little grass frog, carpenter frog, and
                 scarce swamp skipper.

                       The waters of the Northwest River support a rich fishery. Preliminary sampling by the Virginia De-
                 partment of Game and Inland Fisheries have documented over 20 species of fish from the river in recent
                 years. Studies conducted by the North Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Division of Marine
                 Fisheries, show this drainage to be a very important and productive anadromous fishery. Waters at the
                 confluence of the Northwest and North Landing Rivers have been identified as critical nursery areas for
                 blueback herring and other fishes. The riverine wetlands have also been identified as an important compo-
                 nent of the Southern Watersheds Focal Area for implementation of the North American Waterfowl Man-
                 agementPlan.


                 4.7.2 Visual Assessment
                       The Northwest River corridor is for the most part untouched by modem development. Because some
                 adjacent lands are in agricultural land use that type of activity is part of the visual context of this waterway.
                 The marshes adjacent to the main river channel are extensive and provide pristine views to throughout the
                 river corridor. Downstream from the Northwest River Park, the views are predominantly long with marsh
                 or water views predominating in the foreground, middleground and background. Several properties are
                 proposed along the shoreline for acquisition as conservation lands and natural areas. These properties will
                 insure the protection of the marsh systems and the visual integrity of the landscape along the Northwest
                 River.


                       While the Northwest River is not a Virginia Scenic River, it merits evaluation. In fact, its proximity to
                 the North Landing River and its tributaries make it a potential candidate for addition to that river system's
                 scenic status.


                 4.73 Existing and Potential Public Access
                       The Northwest River has two existing access points, the Northwest River Park (Site 28, Figure 4.7)
                 and Bob's Fishing Hole (Site 29, Figure 4.7). The Northwest River Park offers a variety of access,
                 including interpretive and educational opportunities. The park also offers 72 overnight campsites, including
                 a group camping area, camping with electricity and water, and primitive camping. TWo small boat or canoe
                 put ins and several pedestrian trails are also located within the park. The City of Chesapeake has applied
                 for a grant through American Greenways to update and redistribute the "Chesapeake Scenic Waterways
                 Canoe Trail System" brochure. Access sites, which will be signed and noted in the brochure, include
                 Indian Creek, Smith Creek the Northwest River, the upper Northwest River and Pocaty River. Additional
                 sites which could be developed for canoe access are shown on Figure 4.7 and nclude Site 26 at Craigs,
                 Causeway Road and Site 28 at Baum and Indian Creek Road.






                              North Lan&ng Mver Watershed Pubfic Access and Visual Assessment


           5.0 PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND FUNDING


           5.1 Community Involvement


                The North Landing River watershed area already has a number of diverse communitygroups, and
           organizations interested in the area's opportunities and concerned about maintaining the health of the
           watershed. Local groups support the scenic waterways designations and have also nominated the water-
           shed as an exemplary natural areas system. Recreationists enjoy the waters and surrounding lands and the
           waterway serves as a major transportation route.

                The City of Virginia Beach is expanding its tourist base because the oceanside beaches have seasonal
           and capacity limitations. The North Landing River and its watershed offer a broad range of leisure opportu-
           nities. Community involvement recommended for the planning and development of projects within the
           North Landing and Northwest Rivers watershed include:

                   Federal Agencies
                   State Agencies
                   Local Agencies
                   Local Recreation Interests
                   Local Business Interests
                   Local and Regional Tourism Interests
                   Local Civic Groups
                   Citizen Groups
                   Landowners


           5.2 Who Can Develop Access


                An issue which may affect who develops access is who will be responsible for operation and long-term
           maintenance of the facility. The ownership of a specific property will determine the primary party who can
           develop access through that given parcel. Mechanisms, such as use agreements or easements can also be
           used to develop access.

                Private interests may develop access to the waterway if they control (own, lease, or have an easement
           or use agreement) the property and if the developed access meets all permitting requirements of the various
           regulatory agencies. Private interests may also enter into public-private partnerships to develop access.

                Local government may develop access to the waterway. Local departments with an interest in such
           improvements may include the local parks and recreation and public works departments. Access might be
           possible through parcels controlled by other departments like public utilities or transportation.

                State agencies may develop access on state owned lands. These agencies may also be involved as
           partners in access development on other properties or assist with the establishment of use agreements.
           State agencies encourage public - private partnerships with comm ial businesses like Virginia Power.






                    Noyth Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment z@-

                    Federal, state and local agencies can work together to achieve a project of local initiative.

                          There are funding sources who will help a locality or state or federal agency develop a specific project
                    which meets the requirements for specific funds. Section 5.5 discusses potential sources of different funds
                    for access projects.



                                                                                                   5.3 Project Planning and
                                Planning Process Chart                                             Design

                                                                                                         A recommended process for
                                  Virginia Outdoors Plan                                           planning public access is represented in
                                  Regional Recreation Plans
                                  Local Comprehensive Plans                                        the following diagram, which was
                                                                                                   developed for the Chesapeake Bay
                                                                                                   Public Access Technical Assistance
                                  User Considerations                                              RMort.
                                  Land Requirements
                                  Site Analysis
                                  Site Limitations
                                  Regulatory Requirements                                                Source: Public Access Subcom-
                                                                                                   mittee. 1990. Chesapeake Bay Area
                                  Site Elements
                                  Standard Structures                                              PublicAccess TechnicalAssistance
                                  Concept Plan                                                     Rggor Virginia Department Of
                                  Preliminary Cost Estimates                                       Conservation and Recreation, Ma?y-
                                                                                                   land Department of Natural Re-
                                                                                                   sources, District of Columbia Depart-
                                  Site Plan La out
                                  Construction Drawings                                            ment Of Recreation and Parks, Penn-
                                  Final Permits and Approvals
                                                                                                   s
                                  Phasing Plan and Final Costs                                      ylvania Fish Commission, U. S. Fish
                                                                                                   and Wildlife Service, and U. S. Envi-
                                                                                                   ronmental Protection Agency.

                                  M:intenance   Checklist
                                  M nagement Plan
                                  Maintenance Cost Schedule


                                                                                                   5.3.1 Needs Assessment


                         The assessment of public access needs is based upon the number of existing sites, the level of use,
                    demographics, carrying capacity of the resource, and anticipated future needs. The 1994 Virginia Outdoors
                    Plan sets general standards and recommendations for developing access of regional or statewide signifi-
                    cance. This report establishes the appropriate locations for access which will help meet the needs for
                    access within this watershed while maintaining sustainability of the sensitive lands. If pressures to increase
                    access within the watershed exceed the level of access proposed in this study, it is recommended that a
                    study focusing on carrying capacity of the waterways be conducted with relation to boating traffic and other
                    recreational activities.






                               North Lan&ng River Watershed Pubhc Access and Visual Assessment


           5.3.2 Site Selection


                In the North Landing and Northwest River watersheds, the site selection process for upland sites is
           narrowed by the limited amount of upland access to the waterways. The major consideration at these
           points will be to determine what type of access is most suitable at that location. the carrying capacity of a
           particular site determines whether it is appropriate for selection to provide access. On a broader scale, the
           carrying capacity of the waterway determines the types and levels of access appropriate to sustain its
           viability. This study does not determine a definitive carrying capacity for the watershed based on a buildout
           scenario for boating and recreational activities. Should pressures to develop access sites beyond those
           proposed in this plan, a detailed, carrying capacity analysis should be conducted to insure the sustainability
           of the waterways and the sensitive lands surrounding it.

                Potential environmental impacts should be assessed and evaluated for each site selected for access
           development. Consideration of the compatibility of the new access with adjacent lands and uses should be
           an element of the site evaluation process. The sustainability of a site and its surrounding lands can be
           determined on a site by site basis. The environmental criteria for site selection and suggestions for site
           analysis based on the type of proposed access are specified in the Chesal2eake Bay Area Public Access
           Technical Assistance RWort.



           5.2.3 Design Criteria


                Each type of access will have its own design requirements and standards. The site selected will influ-
           ence the appropriate design. Many excellent reference manuals are available for specific design standards
           and criteria. Recreation interests groups may provide important input in the design of access sites which
           insures design/use compatibility. Within the North Landing River watershed,site carrying capacity and
           environmental considerations will be very important components of the design process.



           5.3.4 Site Management


                Management philosophy and site maintenance are considerations which should be considered in both
           the site selection and site design phases of public access development. Site management is as critical to the
           sustainability of a site as the criteria evaluated and used during development. Appropriate management
           strategies should be identified prior to the development of access to insure the success of the proposed
           development.



           5.4 Environmental Assessments and P eirmitting

                The required permits will vary depending upon the extent and impact of each type of access devel-
           oped. Applications for required permits should be well in advance of the anticipated date of project
           construction. Projects may require local, state, and federal permits. Any type of impact to state waters or






                 Noyth Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Valual Assessment z.-

                 wetlands will require a VMRC-Corps of Engineersjoint permit. For detailed information this permitting
                 process contact:


                       Virginia Marine Resource Commission
                       2600 Washington Avenue
                       Newport News, Virginia 23607-0756

                       All private, local, state and federal projects can take advantage of a state coordinated review process
                 by request to the Department of Environmental Quality. While this type of review may not be required for
                 each planned project, the advantage of this review includes identification of potential impacts and permits
                 needed for development. Careful site planning and coordination is essential to avoid impacting sensitive
                 areas. because the Southern Watersheds area is environmentally sensitive and concentrations of rare and
                 endangered species exist throughout the area, environmental reviews with DGIF and DCR are recom-
                 mended. For information on the state review process contact:

                       Department of Environmental Quality
                       629 East Main Street
                       Richmond, Virginia 23219



                 5.5   Funding

                 5.5.1 Public-Private Partnerships

                       Business opportunities and public-private partnerships may take a variety of forms. These may
                 include on-site concessions, partnerships between managing agencies and other groups, special events, and
                 commercial filming activities. Compatible business ventures can provide a wide range of visitor services and
                 facility improvements.

                       The North Landing River and Northwest River Watersheds contain resources which chambers of
                 commerce, visitors bureaus and travel services can capitalize on and feature in their advertising. Ibe type
                 of recreational activities possible in this watershed offer a number of opportunities for small businesses in
                 the resort community. T@pical examples include food services, recreational equipment sales and rental,
                 lessons, and convenience items. In addition, transportation to and from facilities might be provided with
                 guided tours and lodging. Outfitter tours and shuttles from take outs and put ins as well as interpretive or
                 guided floats on the tributaries are possible partnership activities.

                       In addition to general tourism marketing of the opportunities within the watershed, special events can
                 be planned to feature the area. Events could include fishing tournaments, photography contests, a canoe or
                 kayak race, bicycle races, marathon or combination athletic event. A series of events could be organized
                 which were tied to other local activities and festivals. For example, the Neptune festival, the Pungo Straw-
                 berry Festival, Memorial Day events, Labor Day and Fourth of July activities. One or more of these
                 popular festivals could have an event added which featured activities from the North Landing and North-
                 west River areas.









              ï¿½r
                                North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment

            5.5.2 Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF)
                 The Department of Game and Inland Fisheries manages several funds which are available for the
            development of public access. These funds area generally used for boat facilities which provide fishing and
            recreational access to the Commonweal&s waters. Among these funds is the WaUop-Breaux Trust Fund
            which is officially named the Aquatic Resources Trust Fund and was created in 1984 through amendments
            to the Sport Fish Restoration Act (popularly known as the Dingell-Johnson Fund). Wallop-Breaux is of
            crucial importance to state fisheries and boating safety programs. The Dingell-Johnson Fund allocates
            12.5% of the Wallop-Breaux funds coming to the Commonwealth for public powerboat access. DGIF
            currently makes grants to localities which assist with development of boating and fishing access. For more
            information on funds or grants available for development of water related facilities contact:

                 Department of Game and Wand Fisheries
                 Division of Lands and Engineering
                 4010 West Broad Street
                 Richmond, Virginia
                 23230



            5.5.3 Virginia Coastal Resources Management Program Grants


                 The Department of Environmental Quality administers the Virginia Coastal Resources Management
            Program. The program was first established in 1986 as a network of existing agencies, each having respon-
            sibilities in implementing Virginia's coastal resources laws. Approval of this program by the National
            Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) qualified Virginia for annual federal funding under the
            Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended. The funds are used and matched by state and local
            government agencies to further the purposes of the Act within the limits of the state's approved program.
            DEQ coordinates the program and administers the federal funds based on NOAA!s continuing approval.
            Several areas of public access need which could be funded through these grants include coastal public
            access for recreation anf educational and interpretive opportunities relating to coastal issues'and the protec-
            tion of natural resources within the coastal zone. Applications for Virginia Coastal Resources Management
            Programs should be sent to:

                 Office of Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Programs
                 Department of Environmental Quality
                 629 E. Main Street
                 Richmond, Virginia 23219



            5.5.4 Virginia Outdoors Fund Grant Program

                 The Department of Conservation and Recreation administers a grant-in-aid program for the acquisition
            and development of public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. Towns, cities, counties, regional park
            authorities, and state agencies may apply for 50% matching fund assistance from the Virginia Outdoors



                  North Landing River Watershed Public Access and Vmial Assessment @.- 19 @
                  Fund (VOF). These funds are provided through state general fund appropriations for the acquisition and/or
                  development of outdoor recreation areas. This is a reimbursable program, meaning that the sponsoring
                  agency should be capable of financing the project while requesting periodic reimbursement. Applications
                  for the Vizginia Outdoors Fund grant should be sent to:

                       Department of Conservation and Recreation
                       203 Governor Street, Suite 326
                       Richmond, Virginia 23219



                  5.5.5 Recreational Access Program


                       The purpose of the Recreational Access Program is to provide adequate access to or within publicly
                  developed recreational areas or historic sites operated by the Commonwealth of Virginia, or by a local
                  government or authority. The program is administered by the Department of Transportation (VDOT) under
                  the authority of Section 33.1-223 of the Code of Virginia. The Director of the Department of Conservation
                  and Recreation participates and concurs with designation and recommendations for the use of these funds.
                  Application for program funding must be made by resolution of the governing body of the jurisdiction in
                  which the access road or bikeway is to be located. Project funding is allocated by resolution of the Com-
                  monwealth Transportation Board, and construction may be accomplished by the Department of Transporta-
                  tion or, where appropriate, by the locality under and agreement with VDOT.

                       Roads constructed under this program become part of the primary or secondary state highway system,
                  or the local road system. Bikeways constructed outside the right-of-way limits of access roads become the
                  responsibility of the authority or agency maintaining the site which they serve.

                       Construction, reconstruction, maintenance and improvement of roads and bikeways are eligible for
                  Recreational Access funding. A road or bikeway constructed with Recreational Access funds must serve a
                  publicly developed recreational area or historic site operated by a state agency, a locality, or local authority
                  (not a federal facility). No access road or bikeway may be constructed, reconstructed, maintained or
                  improved on privately owned property.

                       Development of the site to be served by the road or bikeway must be complete or in progress, or
                  assurance must be provided that such development will occur within a specified period. In addition, the site
                  must be designated as a public recreational or historic area by the Director of the Department of Conserva-
                  tion and Recreation must recommend construction of the access facility.

                       Costs incurred in the development, design or construction of a Recreational Access facility prior to the
                  allocation of funds by the Commonwealth Transportation Board are not eligible for reimbursement through
                  this program. Right-of-way acquisition and adjustment of utilities costs are not eligible for reimbursement at
                  any time and must be funded by the applicant or from other available sources.






                               North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment

                 For additional information on this program contact:

                 State Secondary Roads Engineer
                 Virginia Department of Transportation
                 1401 E. Broad Street
                 Richmond, Virginia 23219
                 (804) 786-2746.



           5.5.6 Virginia Recreational Trails Fund Program


                 The Virginia Recreational Trails Fund Program is a grant program established for the purposes of
           providing and maintaining recreational trail-related facilities. It is funded by the National Recreational Trails
           Act, which establishes a program for allocating funds to the States for recreational trails and trail-related
           projects. The program will be administered by the U. S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway
           Administration (FHWA) in consultation with the Department of Interior. The state agency which is respon-
           sible for administering the program in DCR.

                 Grant funding may be provided to private individuals, organizations, city governments, county govern-
           ments, or other government entities, but must consider guidance from the Virginia State Trails Council
           (VSTC). VSTC advises DCR on trails-related issues. Council members, appointed by DCR, represent
           trail user groups including: ATV, bicycle (off road and paved surface), four wheel drive, hike (close-to-
           home and long distance), equestrian, motorcycle, cross-country ski and water-related trail use.

                 A minimum of 30% of funding received annually by a State must be used for motorized recreational
           trail uses, 30% must be used for non-motorized recreational trail uses, while the subsequent 40% is discre-
           tionary; however, preference must be given to project proposals with the greatest number of compatible
           recreational purposes and/or provide for innovative recreational trails corridor sharing. This reimbursement
           program, meaning that the sponsoring agency should be capable of financing the project while requesting
           periodic reimbursements. Projects may be funded 100%.

                 For additional information or applications contact:

                 Department of Conservation and Recreation
                 203 Governor Street, Suite 326
                 Richmond, Virginia 23219
                 (804)-786-2556


           5.5.7 Virginia TIransportation Enhancement Program
                 The federal Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) of 1991 opens a new era in
           transportation legislation. With this Act, Congress has provided the states increased flexibility to manage
           their transportation programs. ISTEA gives all levels of government and the private sector the opportunity
           to work together to plan and develop intermodal transportation systems tailored to their specific needs. An
           intermodal transportation system is one in which various forms of transportation are integrated and intercon-
           nected.






                North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Vaual Assessment;-.-.@-



                     ISTEA also reflects a growing environmental awareness. One part of the Act directs funds toward
                specific types of transportation enhancements. This program provides a means of financing activities that go
                beyond the normal elements of a transportation improvement project. Transportation enhancement activities
                are funded under the Surface Transportation Program (STP) of ISTEA. Ten percent of each state's STP is
                set aside for enhancement. In Virginia, this is approximately $7 million a year through 1996.

                     Transportation activities can be a stand alone project or can be implemented as part of an on-going
                transportation project. In either case, it must relate to the intermodal transportation system in function,
                proximity or impact. Transportation enhancement activities may also improve the value or worth of a project
                or make it more aesthetically pleasing. Enhancement projects should provide a "quality of Iffe" benefit and
                should also provide an opportunity to implement something that is not common place in transportation
                projects.

                     For information on the Virginia Enhancement Program application process contact:

                     Programming and Scheduling Division
                     Virginia Department of Transportation
                     1401 East Broad Street
                     Richmond, Virginia 23219


                5.5.8 Wginia EnvironmentA Endowment (VEE)


                     The Virginia Environinental Endowment is a private grantinaking foundation whose purpose is to improve
                the quality of the environment in Virginia. Since its inception in 1977, the endowment has followed a broad
                charter to solve environmental problems. By seeking out programs that actively involve people, the Endow-
                ment encourages diverse groups to work together to develop and promote responsible solutions to environ-
                mental problems. By working together in new partnerships, the VEE fund common goals and better ways to
                restore, protect, manage and enhance the quality of the environment.

                     The Virginia Program of the VEE provides grant support for projects that improve the quality of the
                environment for the direct benefit of the citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Grants in this program
                focus on program priorities while maintaining the flexibility to support other outstanding ideas. Education,
                public policy, local action and research programs which present new and practical ways to prevent environ-
                mental problems are considered as grant possibilities. Also, local environmental projects that serve as models
                for other communities and regions are encouraged.

                     For more information regarding the current grantmaking priorities and for an application contact:

                     Virginia Environmental Endowment
                     P. 0. Box 790
                     Richmond, Virginia 23206-0790
                     (804)644-5000






                              North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Vaual Assessment

           REFERENCES




           Caljouw, C.A. and S. Hobbs. 1991. Management agreement for the North Landing River Preserve System.
             Unpublished report on file with the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Division of
             Natural Heritage. 13 pp.


           Chesapeake Parks, Recreation and Building Maintenance Department and Chesapeake Planning Depart-
             ment. 1991. A Window Into the Year 2010: A Plan for Parks and Recreation.


           City of Chesapeake. Adopted by City Council July 24,1990. A Comprehensive Plan for the CijY o
             ChesgMake, Virginia.


           City of Virginia Beach. 1991. QgRital ImRrovement Plan, Fiscal Years 1991 199211995 1996.


           City of Virginia Beach. December 12,1990. Comprehensive Plan: Planning Commission Recommenda-
             tions to Cijy Council.


           City of Virginia Beach. 1992. The Comprehensive Plan. Adopted March 5,1991, Revised March 24,
             1992.


           City of Virginia Beach, Department of Parks and Recreation, Department of Public Works; RMA/Texas,
             Landscape Architects and Planners, Inc.; Talbot & Associates, Ltd.; and Kimley-Horn and Associates,
             Inc. 1991. West Neck Creek, Land Use Study and Master Plan.


           City of Virginia Beach, Department of Parks and Recreation and the Office of Research and Strategic
             Analysis. 1990. Qijy of Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation Strategic Facilities Plan.


           City of Virginia Beach Office of Research and Strategic Analysis. 1990. Cijy of Virginia Beach InventoEy
             Historic Buildines and Sites As of July 1. 1989 By Age and Location.

           Clarnpitt,'C.A., J.C. Ludwig, T.J. Rawinski, and C.A. Pague. 1993. A Natural Areas Inventory of the Cily
             of Vir6nia Beach, Vireinia Natural Heritage Technical Report 93-14. Virginia Department of Conserva-
             tion and Recreation, Division of Natural Heritage, Richmond, VA. 1 March 1993.

           Commonwealth of Virginia, Department of Conservation and Recreation and U.S. Environmental Protec-
             tion Agency. 1993. "Battling an Invasive Species: Control of Common Reed in Virginia's Southern
             Watersheds".


           Commonwealth of Virginia, Department of Conservation and Recreation. January 1993. "Virginia Out-
             doors Fund Grant Program. Richmond, Virginia.






                North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment z-..-
                Commonwealth of Virginia, Department of Conservation and Recreation. May 1993. 'Virginia Recre-
                  ational Trails Fund Program". Richmond, Virginia.


                Commonwealth of Virginia, Virginia Department of Transportation. 1993. "Transportation Enhancement
                  Program". Richmond, Virginia.

                Commonwealth of Virginia, Virginia Department of Transportation and Department of Conservation and
                  Recreation. July 1991. "Guide to the Recreational Access Program of the Virginia Department of
                  Transportation" Richmond, Virginia.


                Doumlele, D.G. and G.M. Silberhom. 1976. Cijy of Virginia Beach Marsh Invento1y: Volume 1. North
                  Landin2 River and Tributaries. Special Report No. 118 in Applied Science and Ocean Engineering.
                  Virginia Institute of Marine Science, Gloucester Point, VA.

                Frazier, William T., L. Tucker, A. McCleary, and R. Skeirik. 1992. Ci!y of Virginia Beach, Reconnaissance
                  Level Phase I Architectural Survey Eeport

                Frost, C.C. 1989. History and status of remnant pocosin, canebrake, and white cedar wetlands in Virginia.
                  Unpublished report on file with the Virginia Natural Heritage Program, Richmond. 130 pp.


                Gooch, Bob. 1988. Fishing. University Press of Virginia, Charlottesville.


                Hampton Roads Planning District Commission. 1993. Albemarle-Pamlico Profiles for the North Landing
                  and Northwest Rivers. Chesapeake, VA. 2 pp.

                Hatch, Danny R.; James E. Belshan; Steve M. Lantz; George R. Swecker; and Dave E. Starner. 1982. Soil
                  Survey of City of Virginia Beach, Virginia. United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation
                  Service in cooperation with Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

                Heritage Tech. Rep. 92-14, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Division of Natural
                  Heritage, Richmond, VA. 87 pp.

                Mansfield, Stephen S. 1989. Princess Anne Qgunjy and Virginia Beach: a pictorial histo1y. The Donning
                  Company, Norfolk, VA.

                Outdoor Recreation Roundtable. 1993. "Outdoor Recreation in America: An Agenda for the Clinton-
                  Gore Administration". 1331 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Suite 726, Washington, DC 20004.

                Public Access Subcommittee. 1990. ChesaReake Bay Area Public Access Technical Assistance Report.
                  Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Maryland Department of Natural Resources,
                  District of Columbia Department of Recreation and Parks, Pennsylvania Fish Commission, U.S. Fish and
                  Wildlife Service, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

                Rawinski, T.J. and G. P. Fleming. 1993. An inventory and protection plan for southeast Virginia's critical
                  natural areas, exemplary wetlands, and endangered species habitats. Albemarle-Pamlico Study Rep.
                  No. 93-13, Raleigh, NC. 200 pp.






                                 North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Vaual Assessment


            Rawinski, TJ. and J.C. Ludwig. 1992. Critical Natural Areas, ExemplaKy Wetlands, and Endangered
               5Recies Habitats in Southeastern Virginia: Results of the 1991 inventoly encompassing Prince George
               Coun% SuM CounM Isle of Wight Coun% Chesapeake GIL Suffolk CiM and Virginia Beach Cim.
               Natural Heritage Tech. Rep. 92-14, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Division of
               Natural Heritage, Richmond, VA. 87 pp.

            Southeastern Virginia Planning District Commission. 1987. Trail QMgrtunities in the Cily of Chesgpeake.

            Southeastern Virginia Planning District Commission. 1989. Regional Stormwater Management          S     gy for
               Southeastern Virginia.


            Southeastern Virginia Planning District Commission. 1989. Regional Stormwater Management Strategy for
               Southeastern Virginia


            Southeastern Virginia Planning District Commission. 1987. Trail Q1212ortunities in the Cijy of Chesapgake.

            Southeastern Virginia Planning District Commission. 1985. Virginia Beach Scenic WatemLay Plan.

            Southeastern Virginia Planning District Commission. 1988.71be Waters of Southeastern Virginia, Volume 1:
               An Analysis of Water Access Needs.

            Southeastern Virginia Planning District Commission. 1988. The Waters of Southeastern Virginia: Volume 2:
               A Regional WatenLays Guide.

            U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service. September 1985. Soil Survey of Cijy o
               Virdnia Beach, Vnizinia


            U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration and Virginia Department of Transpor-
               tation. 1989. Southeastern F,,Vressway, Chesapeake/Vir&ia Beach: Draft Environmental ImRact State-
               ment/ Section 4M Evaluation.

            Virginia Environmental Endowment. 1990. Annual Report. Three James Center, 1051 East Cary Street,
               Richmond, Virginia 23206-0790.






                   North Lan&ng River Watershed Pubfic Access and Visual Assessment;-.--
                                                                   INDEX

                   A

                   agriculture 4
                   Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal 3, 9, 13, 25, 34
                   Alton's Creek 48
                   Architecture 6
                   Atlantic white cedar 33, 40, 48

                   B


                   Baum Road 53
                   Bennett Boat Line 34
                   Best Management Practices (BMPs) 13
                   bicycling 20
                   birdwatching 18
                   Blackwater Creek 49
                   Blackwater Creek Store 19
                   Blackwater Road 39
                   Blackwater Road bridge 49
                   Blackwater Southern Baptist Church 51
                   Blackwater Trading Post 49
                   boatramp 13, 19
                   boating 13
                   Boating conflicts 11
                   Bob's Fishing Hole 18, 53
                   Bradley's boat ramp 19, 50
                   Bradley's boat ramp 22
                   bridgedesign 31, 32
                   BuffingtonHouse 41, 44

                   C

                   camping 21, 22, 53
                   canal 3
                   Canebrake Rattlesnake 33
                   canoe 11, 18, 19, 20, 35, 39, 42, 48, 50
                   Canoe Trai 20
                   Captain George's Restaurant 36
                   carpenter frog 53
                   Chesapeake Bay 3
                   Chesapeake Scenic Waterways Canoe Trail System 53
                   commerce and trade 8
                   Common reed 13
                   Community Involvement 54
                   Conflicts and Levels of Use 11
                   Craigs Causeway Road 53
                   cultural recreation 13
                   cultural recreation and ecotourism 25
                   cultural resources 6
                   Currituck Sound 3, 9, 11






                                  North Lan&ng River Watershed PubUc Access and Visual Assessment

              D


              Daniel Whitehurst House 41
              Department of Environmental Quality 58
              Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) 1
              Department of Game and Inland Fisheries 58
              Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) 1
              Department of Historic Resources, (DHR) 1
              Design Criteria 56
              Dismal Swamp Southeastern Shrew 33,52
              duck blinds 12
              Dwarf Trillium 33

              E

              ecotourism 13, 19, 21, 25
              educational and interpretive information 19
              educational and research opportunities 13, 23
              Elliot's aster 49
              elongated lobelia 48, 49
              environmental assessments 56
              environmental education 23
              epiphytic sedge 33, 40
              erosion 13

              F


              festivals 21
              field sports 21
              fish and wildlife related recreation 13
              fishing 12, 18, 19, 53

              G


              Government 7
              Great BlueHeron 33
              Great Bridge 34
              Great Bridge Locks 3
              Great Egret 33
              greenways, bikeways and trails 13, 20, 44
              Gresham House 38

              H

              habitat management 23
              Head of River Road 50, 51
              hiking 20
              horseback riding 20
              hunting 12, 18
              hydrologic research 23

              1


              "I" house 38
              Indian Creek 53
              Indian Creek Road 53
              Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act 60
              interpretation 23
              interpretive 23
              Intracoastal Waterway 3, 6, 11, 13, 19, 20, 24, 35






                    North LamUng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment

                    J

                    jet skiing 11, 18
                    jogging 20

                    K

                    kayaking 18
                    Kellum tract 48
                    Kempsville 3, 9

                    L


                    land use 4
                    land views 31
                    Landstown/Pungo Trai 21
                    least bittern 40
                    little grass frog 53

                    M

                    Mansfield's Store 49
                    marinas 18
                    MarineResources Commission(MRC) 1
                    MercerBoatHouse 11, 19, 35
                    military 7
                    Mill Dam Bridge 51
                    Milldam Creek 51
                    motorboating 18
                    MundenPoint 8, 9, 34
                    MundenPointPark 13, 19, 21, 22, 31, 36
                    Munden Point railway line 21

                    N

                    natural area 20, 21
                    nature observation 49
                    nature photography 18
                    nature watching 23
                    Nimmo United Methodist Church 42
                    North American Waterfowl Management Plan 53
                    North Landing River 33
                    Northwest River 52
                    Northwest River Park 19, 22, 31, 53
                    0    ,

                    Oak Grove Baptist Church 34

                    P

                    park 19, 21
                    park and natural area activities 13, 21
                    pedestrian trails 53
                    permits 56
                    Phragmites australis 13
                    physiographic description 3
                    picnicking 21
                    planning 11, 18
                    pleasure driving 20




              E;---- Noyth Lan&ng River Watershed Pubfic Access and Vaual Assessment

               pleasure walking 20
               Pocaty River 20, 35, 38, 53
               pocosin 33, 48
               pogonia 33
               pond pine 48
               powerboats 12, 36
               powerline 32
               Princess Anne Court House 7, 40
               Princess Anne Historic District 41
               Property Ownership and Conservation 10
               Pungo 8, 9, 21
               Pungo Baptist Church 51
               Pungo Ferry Bridge 31, 32, 36
               Pungo Ferry Marina 18,19, 36
               Pungo Ferry Road 9, 48

               R

               railroad 8
               Recreational Access Program 59
               regional context 3
               religion 7
               research 23
               resort 3
               river crossings 31
               river segments 33
               rowing 18
               rural roads 9

               S

               sailing 18
               sawgrass 49
               scenic byway 21
               sedimentation 13
               Seneca Campground 22, 36
               silky camellia 40
               Site Management 56
               site requirements  11
               Site Selection 56
               Smith Creek 53
               special events 21
               Stuart Ives House   38
               submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) 12
               swamp skipper 53
               sweet scented lady's tresses 48

               T

               TNC 1, 20, 35, 38, 39, 49, 51
               trail systems 22
               Transportation 8
               Tull's Bay 52
               Types of Activities/Opportunities 13

               U

               use zoning 12






                  North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment


                  V


                  Venner House 42
                  Virginia Beach Rail 9
                  Virginia Beach Scenic Waterway 20
                  Virginia Beach Scenic Waterway Plan 22
                  Virginia Beach Scenic Waterways 42
                  Virginia Coastal Resources Management Program 58
                  Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries 53
                  Virginia Environmental Endowment 61
                  Virginia Outdoor Plan 2
                  Virginia Outdoors Foundation 31
                  Virginia Outdoors Fund Grant Program 58
                  Virginia Outdoors Plan 55
                  Virginia Outdoors Survey 19
                  Virginia Recreational Trails Fund Program 60
                  Virginia Scenic River 1, 53
                  Virginia Transportation Enhancement Program 60

                  W

                  walking for health 20
                  water skiing 11, 18
                  water views 31, 32
                  West Neck Creek 3, 19, 22, 40
                  West Neck Creek District/Unear Park 21
                  West Neck Creek Marina 18, 19, 42
                  William Nimmo House 42



  I         North Lanifing River Watershed PubUc Access and Vaual Assessment       M -
  I                                                              Appendix A
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  @j
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  i
  I
  I
  I
  I




           common%calth of Virginia
                     TRANSPORTATION
                                            nt
            EO i @ce,, =TeA                              APPLICATION FORM FOR CANDIDATE PROJECT

            1. APPUCANT (GroLA Agency, etc.) Name and Address:

                        CITY OF VIRGINIA BUCH


                        PLANNING#DEPARTMENT


                                                                                  v
                        2405-COURTHOUSE DRIVE                            !!WV

            2- RESPONSIBLE PERSONMTLE                                Irel                                    427-4621

                        ROBERT J, S1


            3. ENHANCEMENT ACTl                                  ftwdons,               t
                                                         #4                                                      10

            4. PROJECT LOCAT]ON AN                     ON
               Project Title:       PUNGO AM        CONNECTO            T--
                                                                         ,7
               Project Size (Size of PrqectlAcreage).

               Project Location
               (include StreeM County and Municipalides:1,w.-                                       mapt
                                                  SEt ATTACHMENT@--




                                                            (add addNonat pages as needed)


            5. PRIOR17Y NUMBER of this project is                                        The total number of projects submitted   16
               Haie'the " 'g6ern=nt bodies officially supported/end'orsed thfis-'M*W            Yes 4D     No [3,'

               ff "Yes" attach dxwirm         of support Also dDcument support from any odw cim or public interest groups or
               organL-atform
               ff "No" attach comments from locaf government


            6. PROJECT CONSTRUCTION/IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE (month and year)
               Begin Design                                       0 MONTHS 1/94 estimate
               Begin Construction/implementation                                  9/94 estimate
               Estimate completion date of project               (12 MONTHS       9/954estima e

                                                                     Condwed



            7. OWNERSHIP Who will own/maintain the completed project?
                         CITY OF VIRGINIA BEACH



            8. ESTIMATED COST OF THE PROJECT

               Total project cost                                   $     644,600

               Total Non-federal participation                      $     128,920
                                                                      (minimum 2O% of cost)


               Non-federal Rinds                                          Status
               List of Source(s)                                 (confirmed/anticipated)                             Amount

                     CITY OF VIRGINIA BEACH                          ANTICIPATED                                      128,920





               Project cost breakdown (sub-totals):
               Planning and Design                        $        58,600
               Land Acquisition                           $             0
               Utility Relocation                         $             0
               Construction/implementation                $       586,000
               Describe in detail any tangible in-kind match you propose for the match requirement.
               The City of Virginia Beach owns a portion of the right of way required by this project.
               The City would pursue an easement for those portions of the project that would be locate
               on property owned by Virginia Power.
            9. BENEFITS          (see attached)

               How does the candidate project support the eligible category and satisfy the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act
               definition for Transportation Enhancement Activities? Please address benefits and public use anticipated Use additional 81/2
               x 11 sheets if needed.

           10. SIGNATURE (Responsible Person)
                                                                                                                       
                                     
                                                                                                                Date   27 July 93


           MAILING ADDRESS AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

           Please mail five copies of your completed application package to the following address:

             Mr. D.L Eure
             Programming and Scheduling Division
             Virginia Department of Transportation
             1401 East Broad Street
             Richmond, Virginia 23219
             Please mark all attachments with project name and location.
 






              9.  BENEFITS    (Attachment to application)

              TITLE: Pungo    Park Connector Trail

              LOCATION: City of Virginia Beach
              (south of Buckner Boulevard, east of Princess Anne Road, west of
              Holland Road, north of Indian River Road)

              This project offers the opportunity to take advantage of existing
              unused right-of-way and apply the "rails to trails" concept of
              adapting one former transportation mode (railroad lines) to another
              (bicycle/pedestrian trail) . This particular trail would also be an
              extension of an existing trail along South Independence Boulevard
              which has been recognized as one of the first 500 rail-to-trail
              conversions in the nation. Connection of the proposed trail to the
              South Independence trail offers the opportunity to access many
              other city bikeways (e.g. Lynnhaven Parkway and Dam Neck Road).

              This new trail would provide an alternative means of transportation
              through this area and link the suburban portion of the city to its
              more rural half. Bicycle/pedestrian access to the Virginia Beach
              municipal center, Tidewater Community College, the Farmer's Market,
              Kellam High School, and Princess Anne Park would be available to a
              wider segment of the community. The new trail would provide the
              opportunity to observe a portion of the West Neck Creek's natural
              environment. West Neck Creek is part of the Virginia Beach Scenic
              Waterway System, the first local ly-deve loped comprehensive water
              trail system in the Commonwealth. Interpretive signs would provide
              environmental information about the habitat and historical
              information concerning the former railroad.

              This proposed project is included in the City of Virginia Beachfs
              Master Bikeway Plan and in the Regional Bikeway Facilities Plan
              prepared by the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission.







           4. PROJECT LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION - (Attachment to application)

           TITLE: Pungo - Park Connector Trail

           LOCATION: City of Virginia Beach
           (south of Buckner Boulevard, east of Princess Anne Road, west of
           Holland Road, north of Indian River Road)

           PROPOSED ACTIVITIES:    Design and construct a pedestrian/ bicycle
           trail facility along a former railroad right-of-way.

           EXISTING CONDITIONS:       The project site is an abandoned
           Norfolk/Southern Railroad right-of-way (approximately 66 feet
           wide), portions of which are now owned by Virginia Power and the
           City of Virginia Beach.     Virginia Power has high voltage power
           lines within the right-of-way. The City of Virginia Beach has a
           pump station located within the right-of-way.

           PROPOSED FACILITIES: An asphalt surfaced pedestrian/ bicycle trail
           (10 feet wide/six miles in length) is the main element of this
           project.    Two rest areas consisting       of benches and trash
           receptacles would be incorporated into the trail design. A bridge
           over West Neck Creek would be required and a raised wooden
           boardwalk may be required over wetland areas. At scenic locations
           appropriate landscaping and restorative planting of native and
           adaptive species would be accomplished as well as interpretive
           signage related to the ecology,and history of the area.







   pwa






                                                                               &










                         +












                                       Project: PUNGO-PARK CONNECTOR TRA L
              77-
                                              'f'-











































                                                                             fs
                                                  GLE
                         F-RINCESS ANNE  QUADRAN
                                                                                  pv
                                                 GLE
                         PLEASANT  RIDGE QUADRANGLE



  I
            Noyth Lanifing River WatershedPublic Access and VisualAssessment
  I                                                                  Appendix B
  I                                                        .I
  i
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I






















                               ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT


                                           for


                                NATURAL AREAS SECURITY-
                        NORTH LANDING RIVER NATURAL AREA PRESERVE
                                   Project Code 115298
                                   Biennium: 1994-96





                        Department of Conservation and Recreation
                              Division of Natural Heritage
                                   1500 E. Main,Street
                                   Richmond, VA 23219
                                  Contact: Tom Stuart
                                      (804)786-9014
                                    Agency Code: #199





                                     December, 1993












                                      Table  of Contents


            1.  Project Description
                -Background     . . * * ' *  * * * * *  ' *  * * ' *  ' * * *  *  1
                -Project Need     . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       1
                -Location  . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        2
                -Project Scope    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       2

            2.  Affected Environment
                -Regional Significance     . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      3
                -Topography  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        3
                -Wetlands  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        4
                -Groundwater/Drinking   Water  . . . ... . . . . . . . . . .      4
                -Water Quality    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       4
                -soils   . . . .    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       4
                -Hazardous Materials    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       5
                -Existing Land Uses   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       5
                -Wildlife and Vegetation     . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      5
                -Archaeological Sites   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       5
                -Adjacent Properties    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       5
                -Scenic Properties    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       6

            3.  Alternatives
                -Alternative 1: Another Site     . . . . . . . . . .              6
                -Alternative  2: A Truncated En  'try Road   . . . . . . . . .    6
                -Alternative  3: No Construction    . . . . . . . . . . . . .     7
            4.  Impacts
                -Rare or Endangered Plant and Animal Species       . . . . . .    7
                -Significant Habitat    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       8
                -Unique Terrestrial Vegetation      . . . . . . . . . . . . .     8
                -Aquatic Life     . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       8
                -Historic Structures    . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . .      8
                -Agricultural Land    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       8
                -Forest Land    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       8
                -Wetlands  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        9
                -Streams   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      . .       9
                -Watersheds     . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       9
                -Chesapeake  Bay Resource Protection    Area   . . . . . . . .    9
                -100-year Floodplain    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... .       9
                -Groundwater    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       9
                -Water Quality    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      10
                -Natural Areas    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      10
                -Important Scenery    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      10
                -Air Quality    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      10
                -Solid Waste    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      10
            5.  Mitigation
                -Surfacing   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       10
                -Erosion and Sediment Control    . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     11
                -Avoiding Wetlands    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      11
                -Reducing Habitat Loss     . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     11
                -Additional Permitting     . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     11


                                               i










             Irreversible Changes
             -Increased Surface Runoff    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  12
             -Loss of Vegetation    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  12
             -Loss of Habitat   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  12
             -Shading of Wetlands   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  12

             Attachments
             Extract from DCR-DNH technical report
             Hazardous Inspections Report
             Department of Historic Resources Letter

















                                       C'


     1-64
                                         00@





                     ISO







                                     BLACKWATER ROAD



                                                  ALTON'S
                                                  CnEEK



                                   CAROLINA ROAD:



                                                    PUBLI
                                                    ACCESS
                            HEAD OF RIVER ROAD      SITE









                                                 NORTH LANDING RIV

                                 V I R G I N I A
                                     NORTH C AROLINA




                         LOCATION MAP
                         NORTH LANDING RIVER
                         NATURAL AREA PRESERVE
                         PUBLIC ACCESS PROJECT


                         SCALE:NTS

                         SOURCES: VIRGINIA ATLAS & GAZETTEER






















                             S-ACRE PUBLIC ACCESS SITE
                                                             ALTON'S CREEK
          CAROLINA ROAD-



                             01
                             cc
                             at
                             ui






                      SOPo
              of V;lv
         He 0






















                                           1886-ACRE
                                           NORTH LANDING RIVER
                                           NATURAL AREA PRESERVE


                                                                                   NORTH LANDING RIVER




                                      CONTEXT
                                      NORTH LANDING RIVER
                                      NATURAL AREA PRESERVE
                                      PUBLIC ACCESS PROJECT


                                      SCALE:NTS


























                                                                                    rvs


                     AUXILIARY PARKING






                          ENTRY GAT                        PROPERTY LINE


                         DRAINAGE DITCH
               0
                                                                                                               GRAVEL ROAD
                                                  TREE LINE (TYPICAL)
               uj





                                                                                           WOODED AREA                              PARKING AREA


                                                                                                                                            TRAIL (TYPICAL)

                                                                                                     . . . . . .......................


                                                                                                                                                    BOARDWA
                                                                                            Z DRAINAGE DITCH


                                                                                                                                                   APPROXIMA
                                                                                                                                                    F WETLA
                                                                                                                                                    TYPICAL








           PROJECT DESCRIP'TION

           Background

                As part of its mission,  the Department of Conservation and
           Recreation (DCR) has the responsibility to locate and acquire
           tracts of land which contain exemplary natural communities or rare
           and endangered species, and to dedicate these tracts of land as
           Natural Area Preserves.   Once such tracts of land have been set
           aside, it is the further responsibility of DCR to manage these
           preserves. The first priority of such management is the continued
           health and recovery of the plant and animal communities which
           reside there. Within the constraints imposed by this management
           priority, DCR must also make these areas accessible to the public
           for continued study and appreciation without detriment to the
           protected resources.
                So far, eight Natural Area Preserves have been dedicated. one
           of these is the North Landing River Natural Area Preserve (NLR
           Preserve), an environment of swamps, marshes, and upland forest
           within the city limits of Virginia Beach (see Context map). The
           preserve, which presently has an area of 1886 acres, is poised to
           nearly double in size as DCR representatives work out the details
           of two pending acquisitions totaling 1440 acres.
                The NLR Preserve is known to contain 10 different species of
           plants and animals ranked by DCR as rare within Virginia, including
           the canebrake rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus atricaudatus), which
           is on the state endangered species list. The area may be the home
           of still other rare or endangered- species not yet encountered on
           the preserve. One of these is the Dismal Swamp southeastern shrew,
           an elusive and tiny mammal weighing about as much as a dime. The
           preserve also contains one of Virginia's finest remaining examples
           of a pocosin, a fire-dependent plant community characterized by a
           dense tangle of vines and shrubs and occurring in nutrient-poor
           wetland environments (see Attachment A for an inventory of preserve
           species).
                ongoing management of this and other preserves is critical to
           maintaining the ecological habitats and plant and animal species
           for.which the preserves were established. An important aspect of
           preserve management is appropriate public access -- access which
           directs visitors through the Natural Area Preserve for natural
           history interpretation and environmental education and which, at
           the same time, protects fragile habitats from inadvertent damage.

           Proiect Need

                No public access to the NLR Preserve is currently available.
           Though the preserve has public road frontage along Pungo Ferry
           Road, the continuous wetlands along this frontage prevent any
           access development. To provide a site suitable for public access
           to the NLR Preserve, DCR has purchased 45 acres of relatively dry
           land which adjoins the preserve at the northwesternmost boundary of
           the preserve.

                                            1












          Location

               The site of the proposed project is located within the
          southern watersheds of the City of Virginia Beach, on the east side
          of Blackwater Road between Old Carolina Road and Head of River Road
          (see Location Map). The planned facility is approximately sixteen
          miles from the interchange of 1-64 and Battlefield Parkway, twenty-
          two miles from the city limits of Norfolk, and approximately two
          miles from the city limits of Chesapeake.
                The property purchased is a 45-acre portion of a 110-acre
          parcel formerly owned by Annie B. Kellam and Floyd E. Kellam, Jr.
          The newly-created tract extends from Blackwater Road along the edge
          of an open field and into a wooded area to the east (see Context
          map).

          Prolect Scope

               The project to be examined in this Environmental Impact Report
          is a proposed public access route across this 45-acre property to
          Alton's Creek, a tributary to the North Landing River (see
          Preliminary Plan). The proposed project will consist, first, of a
          short, gravelled, entry drive across two existing drainage ditches.
          At the point of the second existing drainage ditch, a distance of
          approximately 100 feet from Blackwater Road, a gate will be erected
          to control use of the site. One or two parking spaces and a trash
          receptacle will be provided near the gate.
               Beyond the gate, a gravel road (18, x 42001) is planned which
          will be constructed along the edge of a f ield and into a woods,
          terminating at a parking area for six to eight cars and a school
          bus (approximately 5600 square feet). Road width may narrow as a
          result of development restrictions imposed by the U. S. Fish and
          Wildlife Service. A portable toilet facility, screened from view
          by plantings, will be provided near the parking area.
               From the parking area, a footpath consisting of alternating
          trail and boardwalk is planned, leading to a viewing deck/canoe
          launch. The sections of the proposed boardwalk will be constructed
          of salt-treated lumber, covering a total of roughly 4500 square
          feet (51 x 9001). The trails will be cleared paths five feet wide,
          graded and surfaced only as required to make them accessible. To
          promote environmental education, interpretive signs will 'be
          provided along the trail and boardwalk.
               The terminus of the access facility will be a viewing
          deck/canoe launch (approximately 600 square feet) constructed of
          the same materials as the boardwalk.      DCR is investigating the
          possibility of constructing portions of the deck/launch with
          recycled plastic "lumber".     It is hoped that the launch will
          encourage the public to explore the preserve by canoe or kayak over
          the waters of Alton's Creek.
               All public access development will occur within the newly-
          purchased 45-acre site. Development will affect approximately 4
          acres of that property.        The proposed project will entail
          permitting by a number of regulatory agencies. Among them:

                                            2


















                     TRACT A
                              I10                    TRACT C                     5                 TREE LINE (TYPICAL)
                              EXISTING HOUSES
                              T R A C Tr@@B,
                0
                ir
                m
                w                                             PROPERTY LINE (TYPICAL)                                   AGRICULTURAL LAND

                i-     AGRkULTURAL LAND@@
                0
                                                     DRAINAGE DITCH

                                                                                                                                           TRACT D


                              DRAINAGE DITCH




                                                                                               WOODED AREA 7


                         AGRICULTURAL LAND,,,?                                                      DRAINAGE DITCH
                                                                     TRACT G


                                                                                                                oeon

                              CONTOUR LINE                                                                                                       APPROXIMATE
                                                                                      TRACT F                                             LIMITS OF WETLAND ARE
                                                                                                                                                 TYPICAL

                                                                                                          LIMITS OF 100-YEAR FLOODPLAIN






                                                                                                      ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS
                                                                                          TRACT A                                  HARRY WHITEHURST
                              NO SLOPES GREATER THAN 15%                                  TRACT B                                     LEROY FOREMAN
                                                                                          TRACT C                        EARL M. & LAURA MAE TEBAULT
                              SITE LIES OUTSIDE CHESAPEAKE BAY   WATERSHED                TRACT D                        EARL M. & LAURA MAE TEBAULT
                              EXISTING CONTOURS TO REMAIN UNCHANGED                       TRACT E                          COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA
                                                                                          TRACT F                          GERALD N. & ANITA M. SOREY
                      I                                                                   TRACT G                       ANNIE B. & FLOYD E. KELLAM, JR.
                              TR4








               The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, for development in wetland
           areas.
               The Virginia Marine Resources Commission, for construction of
           the viewing deck/canoe launch.
           * The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality Water Division,
           for installation of culverts.
           * The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, for construction within the
           recovery area of a federally-threatened species.
              The Planning office of the City of Virginia Beach.
                 The proposed facility will provide a much-needed public access
           to the NLR Preserve.      It will also enhance opportunities for
           environmental education and use of Alton's Creek by canoeists. A
           one-half day canoe trip will be available for canoeists from this
           site to a site owned by the City of Virginia Beach at the old Pungo
           Ferry Bridge.     The "Public Access Plan and Visual Resource
           Assessment for the North Landing River Watershed" mentions this
           site and the proposed fa  'cilities as critical to providing public
           access and environmental education opportunities to the resources
           of the region.


           AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT


           RecTional SicMificance

                 The site of the proposed NLR Preserve public access facility
           lies within the watershed of the North Landing River, which drains
           south to Albemarle Sound, away from the Chesapeake Bay.          This
           watershed contains thousands of acres of undeveloped, non-tidal
           wetlands, and lies along the Atlantic Flyway, a north-south route
           along the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean for many species of
           migratory birds. Biological inventories by DCR in this watershed
           have so far revealed the presence of 40 species considered rare or
           endangered in Virginia.
                 In recent years the area has been a focus of attention for
           conservation groups, in particular The Nature Conservancy and DCR.
           Activity by The Nature Conservancy has resulted in land purchases
           totaling roughly 5460 acres at sites above and below the NLR
           Preserve.   Such large-scale preservation activity increases the
           efficacy of similar DCR preservation efforts in this watershed.. It
           also contributes to the continuing desirability of thoughtful
           public access to this area. Such access would not only offer the
           public a wilderness experience in a diverse and unspoiled natural
           area, but would also serve as a means of educating and exciting
           citizens about wetland preservation.
                 The site of the proposed access facility is close to a large
           metropolitan area and would enhance opportunities in the region for
           eco-tourism. The proposed access reinforces efforts by the City of
           Virginia Beach to promote use of the over 120 miles of canoeable
           waterway lying within city boundaries. The city has earmarked over
           $600,000 for construction of public canoe launches, improvement and
           signage of existing launch points, and promotional literature.

                                             3











           Topocrraphy

                The 45-acre Kellam tract is typical of property in the
           Southern Watersheds (see Affected Environment map). The site is
           low-lying and flat, most of which sits less than ten feet above sea
           level. Elevation is greatest at Blackwater Road, and declines from
           west to east. There are no clearly defined watersheds or natural
           drainage swales on the proposed access site. Though surface water
           moves roughly west to east across the site, most water on this site
           is absorbed by the soil, which is quite porous in the substratum.
           Man-made agricultural ditches (shown on the Affected Environment
           map) drain standing water from heavy rains slowly. Because of the
           flat topography, the terrain shows no indication of soil erosion.

           Wetlands


                Much of the eastern end of the site is non-tidal wetland. The
           Army Corps of Engineers has confirmed the presence of wetlands on
           the ' site, and has recommended that they be delineated by a
           qualified consultant. Areas on the site below an elevation of 5    '
           lie within the 100-year floodplain, according to FEMA flood
           insurance maps of the Virginia Beach area.

           Groundwater/Drinking water

                The site has no wells and no municipal water supply. DCR does
           not plan to provide drinking water on the site.
                The Virginia Beach area does possess confined aquifers at
           average depths of 401. No aquifer is known to exist on the project
           site, but a potential aquifer here would be unaffected by the
           proposed project.
                 Water in the North Landing River watershed reaches the river
           and its tributaries primarily by underground flow, and in many
           .areas of the site groundwater is at or near the surface of the
           soil. The U.S. Geological Service has been contracted by DCR to
           conduct a study of the hydrology of the North Landing River
           watershed.


           Water Ouality

                Water quality in the North Landing River and its tributaries
           has been affected by farming operations within the watershed of
           this river. The DCR Virginia NonPoint Source Pollution Watershed
           Assessment Report (1993) has noted elevated phosphorus levels in
           this watershed which may be the result of fertilizers leaching into
           the groundwater.
                water quality information specific to Alton's Creek and the
           site of the proposed facility is not available.       However, the
           health and diversity of species in the locality of the proposed
           access site argues for relatively high water quality here.



                                            4






























                                                                                                ............













                             24















                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  21










                                         SOIL LEGEND

                                         I                ACREDALE
                                         3                AUGUSTA
                                      12                  DORMAN

                                      19                  MUNDEN
                                      21                  NAWNEY
                                      24                  NIMMO
                                      34A                 STATE
                                      36                  TETOTUM










           soils

                The Soil Conservation Service soil survey of the Virginia
           Beach area indicates that the soil type comprising the greatest
           area of the project site is the Acredale soil (#I on Soil Survey
           map). This soil is only slowly permeable in the upper layers, and
           is subject to a seasonal high water table at or near the surface of
           the ground. The existence of drainage ditches on the site helps to
           alleviate this condition.
                With one exception, the remaining soil types are found
           clustered at the east end of the project site, where the least
           amount of intervention will occur. These soils are more permeable
           than the Acredale soils, but are subject to similiar seasonal high
           water tables.   Construction in this area of the site is further
           constrained by the presence of wetlands. The sole exception is the
           Nimmo loam (#24 on the Soil Survey map), which is found at the west
           end of the site and which underlies Blackwater Road. It is more
           permeable than the Acredale soil, but like that soil is subject to
           a seasonal high water table of 01 to 1.01.

           Hazardous Materials

                The proposed access site is undeveloped, and has been used
           primarily for agriculture and logging.      There are no hazardous
           materials on the site (see Attachment B).

           Existing Land Uses

                The 45-acre portion  of the Kellam tract has no improvements,
           other than drainage ditches. New property lines at the western end
           of the site cut a narrow swath along the edge of agricultural land,
           which is being used to raise soybeans at present. To the east, the
           property is wooded (woodland edges are noted on the Affected
           Environment map). Much of the eastern end of the site is forested
           wetland.


           Wildlife and V aetation

                Wetland areas on the site are wooded. Predominant trees in
           the woodland canopy are sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), tulip
           poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), red maple (Acer rubrum), white
           oak (Quercus alba), and beech (Fagus grandifolia).
                Because the wooded portion of the site is contiguous with
           hundreds of acres of surrounding woodland and undeveloped property,
           the site is home to a diverse plant and animal population,
           particularly birds. The access site lies within the recovery area
           for the Southeastern Dismal Swamp Shrew, a federally threatened
           species. Because of this, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will
           be imposing constraints on site development.




                                            5










           Archaeological Sites

                The Department of Historic Resources, in a letter to the
           Division of Natural Heritage (See Attachment C), has indicated that
           the proposed access facility will have "no effect on histor-ic
           properties" (VDHR File no. 93-0071-F).     Because the development
           planned for this area is unlikely to disturb a possible
           archaeological site, the DHR has concluded that a Phase I
           archaeological survey will not be required.

           Adlacent Properties

                The tracts adjacent to this property, with two exceptions, are
           also agricultural or wooded (see Affected Environment map). The
           exceptions are two adjoining residential lots of less than two
           acres each near Blackwater Road. The proposed access road will run
           parallel to the southern property lines of these lots.



           Scenic Properties

                The area surrounding the proposed access facility contains no
           designated scenic properties. The North Landing River, however, is
           a designated scenic river. Alton's Creek, which is a tributary to
           the North Landing River, is almost untouched by development and
           retains its wilderness character.
                The North Landing River watershed also contains thirteen
           natural areas of significance for their exemplary natural habitats
           or rare or endangered species.       One of these natural areas
           encompasses the NLR Preserve.

           ALTERNATIVES


           Alternative 1: Another Site

                If a public access facility to the NLR Preserve is to be
           constructed , there are few site alternatives to the 45-acre tract
           under consideration. In choosing an access site, DCR determined
           that the site ought to be:
                1) adjacent to the preserve,
                2) accessible from a paved road,
                3) scenic,
                4) free from structures and environmental hazards,
                5) suitable for construction of a road and parking area.
                The search for an access site uncovered only two suitable
           properties for sale. of these, one did not meet criteria #3 and
           #4. The other is the property under discussion. Given the flat
           and wet terrain of the properties surrounding the NLR Preserve, no
           other site will provide public access with the relative ease and
           low environmental impact of the Kellam tract.


                                            6










           Alternative 2: A Truncated Entry Road

                The configuration of the Kellam tract, the natural features of
           the site, and the purpose of the proposed facility all serve to
           constrict the range of design alternatives for public access.
                One alternative is to limit vehicular access by providing only
           a short entry drive and parking area at Blackwater Road.           The
           remainder of the site would be accessible only to pedestrians.
           This alternative would reduce the need for clearing and grading
           required by the proposed gravel road and interior parking area, and
           would likely also reduce the amount of runoff generated by a
           relatively impervious gravel surface.
                Limiting vehicular access in this manner will certainly reduce
           environmental impact; it will almost as certainly reduce the
           usefulness of this facility for use by the general public. Many
           individuals, whether out of infirmity or lack of fitness, will find
           the trek from Blackwater Road to Alton's Creek -- a distance of
           slightly over one mile -- so challenging that they will not attempt
           it. Covering that distance in a wheelchair would be particularly
           difficult. Canoeists who might wish to explore the NLR Preserve by
           water will be obliged to carry their canoes over one mile to the
           launch site.    This' design alternative may be objected to on
           aesthetic grounds as well.     Construction of a parking area near
           Blackwater Road may, be viewed as a detraction from the rural
           character of the surrounding landscape.

           Alternative 3: No Construction of Access Facility

                A decision not to provide a public access facility on this
           '
           site would eliminate the possibility of any negative environmental
           impacts from construction. It will, at the same time, deprive the
           1886-acre NLR Preserve of all public access and limit opportunities
           to safely explore the unique natural heritage of the North Landing
           River.   if no public access is provided, unmonitored makeshift
           access, whether pedestrian or vehicular, may open the preserve to
           environmental degradation as individuals make access for themselves
           by foot, bike, or truck to Alton's Creek and the North Landing
           River.


           IMPACTS

                The proposed public access facility will have some negative
           environmental impact during its construction, and will make some
           permanent environmental changes. However, with thoughtful design,
           this access facility will minimize impacts caused by vehicles or
           pedestrians. It will also provide individuals the opportunity to
           observe and appreciate the unique environment of the NLR Preserve.
           in so doing, the facility will offset some of the environmental
           impacts of its construction by educating the public and by building
           public support for conservation.


                                             7









          Specific Impacts

                The construction of the proposed access facility will create
          some short-term and permanent environmental changes. The effects
          of construction on environmental resources are as follows:

          Rare  or Endangered Plant and Animal SDecies
                Surveys by the Division of Natural Heritage found no rare,
                endangered, or threatened plant species on the 45-acre access
                site. Construction here will pose no danger to this resource.
                There are, of course, a number of rare or endangered species
                or endangered plant communities on the adjoining NLR Preserve,
                and still others in the larger watershed of the North Landing
                River. Public access to the area is being routed to prevent
                the inadvertant destruction of species and habitat by
                uninformed visitors to the site.

                Certain wetland and upland communities on the access site are
                potential habitat for the state and federally threatened
                Dismal Swamp shrew (Sorex longirostris fisheri) and the
                canebrake rattlesnake., There have been no surveys for these
                rare species conducted on this property. A representative of
                the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has visited the site and
                concluded that the habitats found here are suitable for the
                Dismal Swamp Shrew.

          Significant Habitat
                As indicated earlier, the access site lies on the Atlantic
                Flyway migratory route for birds, and as a result the area is
                a seasonal stopover for birds. Proposed construction of the
                entry road will clear approximately 3.02 acres of woodland,
                and so remove some of the forest canopy that birds might use.
                Clearing and grading will also remove cover for other
                wildlife. Because the area to be cleared is linear -- a 30,
                swath to accommodate an 181 road, shoulders, and drainage
                swale -- the loss of habitat will likely have a negligible
                effect on wildlife.

                Development restrictions imposed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
                Service may result in a somewhat narrower swath cleared for
                construction of the road.

          Unique Terrestrial Vegetation
                The wooded and agricultural areas of this site are typical of
                the Tidewater area. A DNH survey of the access site, which
                took into account unique habitats as well as rare or
                endangered species, did not reveal any natural heritage plant
                resources.   one can reasonably conclude that the proposed
                access facility will harm no unique terrestrial vegetation.




                                            8









           Aguatic Life
                 Aquatic life in Alton's Creek or adjacent wetland areas will
                 not be affected by the proposed facility.                  Planned
                 construction will result in minimal filling of wetiand areas
                 (less than 10,000 sf) and will not block water flow across the
                 site.     Increased runoff from the relatively impervious
                 surfaces of the gravel road and parking area can be retained
                 with shallow drainage swales and permitted to percolate into
                 the soil.


           Historic Structures
                 There are no standing structures on the site. In a letter to
                 the Division of Natural Heritage dated 1/27/1993, the
                 Department of Historic Resources indicated that the proposed
                 facility will have "no effect" on historic structures, and
                 that a Phase I archaeological survey will not be required of
                 DCR for this project.

           Agricultural Land
                 As mentioned  earlier, the 45-acre site includes a 501 strip of
                 agricultural land. This strip of land -- approximately 1.25
                 acres -- is the northern edge of a field presently planted to
                 soybeans.    This loss of farmland will be perman,    Ient if the
                 facility is  constructed.

           Forest Land
                 Approximately 3.02 acres of wooded land will need to be
                 cleared to make way for the proposed access facility. If the
                 facility is constructed as planned, this loss will also be
                 permanent.

           wetlands
                 A significant proportion of the eastern half of this site is
                 non-tidal wetland, the limits of which will be delineated by
                 a qualified consulting firm. The proposed parking area and
                 entry road will be sited so as to encroach on these areas as
                 little as possible. Forested areas with standing water will
                 be spanned by a boardwalk. This structure, while not impeding
                 water flow, will intensify the existing shady conditions under
                 the .1 acres of wetlands it traverses. The increased shade,
                 however, is not expected to significantly alter surrounding
                 herbaceous vegetation which is already adapted to low light
                 levels.


           Streams
                 The proposed access site is intersected by a branch of Alton's
                 Creek approximately 501 wide, and flowing slowly to the
                 northeast.    The banks of this branch will be the site of a
                 viewing deck/canoe launch if the facility is constructed. As
                 mentioned under "Aquatic Life", construction of the canoe
                 launch will entail some soil disturbance, particularly when
                 the support posts are driven, with a consequent short-term

                                               9









                 increase in stream sediment.       Be-cause movement of water in
                 this branch is barely perceptible, and because the branch is
                .not navigable, bank erosion is not a concern.

           Watersheds
                 The site of the proposed facility does not lie within the
                 watershed of a reservoir or other municipal water supply.
                 Development of the facility would have no effect on existing
                 reservoir watersheds.


           Chesapeake Bay Resource Protection Area
                 The North Landing River watershed drains to the south, away
                 from the Chesapeake Bay. The proposed site for public access
                 does not lie within a Chesapeake Bay Resource Protection Area.

           100-Year Floodplain
                 FEMA flood insurance maps for Virginia Beach indicate that the
                 easternmost portions of the proposed public access site lie
                 within the 10 0-year f loodplain (see Af f ected Environment Map) .
                 The 100-year floodplain includes all areas of elevation less
                 than 51. The proposed boardwalk and viewing deck/canoe launch
                 are to be built within this floodplain, but because
                 construction will not involve filling and will not impede the
                 flow of water across the site, these structures will not alter
                 the floodplain.

           Groundwater
                 Because the water table is near the surface of the ground in
                 many areas of the site, soil compaction resulting from road
                 construction could impede the flow of groundwater.          Careful
                 siting of the proposed road and parking area across upland
                 areas will minimize any possible effect on groundwater flow.
                 No other effects on groundwater are expected.

           Water Ouality
                 Water quality will not be affected by the construction and
                 operation of the proposed facility.

           Natural Areas
                 The area surrounding the proposed access site does not contain
                 any parks or active recreation areas, though it does encompass
                 the NLR Natural Area Preserve. The area is also the home of
                 Nature Conservancy properties totaling approximately 5460
                 acres at locations above and below the North Landing River
                 Natural Area Preserve. The access facility proposed by DCR is
                 similar to low-key access projects which have been developed
                 by the Nature Conservancy for their properties.

           Important Scenery
                 Though the area of the proposed access site does not contain
                 any historic views or designated scenic areas, it is
                 pleasingly rural in character. The access project planned is

                                               10








                 sufficiently small-scale to blend harmoniously with nearby
                 f arming operations.   Some screening of the proposed entry
                 drive from the two residential lots on Blackwater road is
                 planned. Additional planting at the entry gates will aid in
                 retaining the character of the area.     All shrubs and trees
                 planted will be species native to the area.

           Air Ouality
                 No impact on air quality is expected during construction or
                 operation of the proposed facility.

           Solid Waste
                 No solid waste disposal facilities are planned for this site.


           MITIGATION

                 Site selection and preliminary design have been completed with
           the intention of providing a public access facility while
           minimizing impacts to the environment. In fact, this public access
           represents a means of protection for the NLR Preserve and for the
           larger environment as a result of environmental education and
           increased public awareness of the North Landing River watershed.
           Strategies    for  mitigating environmental impact        have    been
           incorporated in the design from the first. These includet.
                 1) Gravel surfacing for the road and parking area to reduce
                 surface runoff and to avoid increased soil erosion and
                 possible impacts on water quality and aquatic life.
                 Additional measures for containing sediment include the
                 implementation of an erosion and sediment control plan and,
                 if necessary, a storm water management plan that meets
                 standards set by the DCR Division of Soil and Water
                 Conservation. Soil erosion anticipated in the construction
                 of the road and parking area can be curtailed using
                 techniques such as silt fencing and immediate revegetation
                 of denuded areas with annual ryegrass.       Increased surf ace
                 runoff may be relatively easily contained by creating shallow
                 swales along the sides of the road and parking area.         The
                 extreme flatness of the site and the linear nature of the
                 facility make it unlikely that surface runoff will channelize.
                 More extensive stormwater management practices will be
                 undertaken on the advice of DCR Division of Soil and Water
                 Conservation.

                 2) Siting of the road and parking area outside the limits of
                 wetlands., to the greatest extent possible.         impacts to
                 wetlands will be further lessened by construction of a
                 boardwalk which spans areas with standing water and permits
                 foot traffic on the site without trampling vegetation or
                 increasing erosion.    Wetland areas will be delineated by a
                 5ualif ied consulting firm. Necessary permits for construction
                 in wetland areas will be applied for under the Joint Permit









                Application process for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and
                the Virginia Marine Resources Commission.

                3) Routin the road, boardwalk, and trails through the driest
                and least vecietated areas on the site.     This effort will
                reduce the amount'of habitat loss and wildlife displacement.
                The loss of habitat is further reduced by the choice of a
                relatively narrow (181) r@adbed, lessening the amount of
                clearing and grading required.     Some habitat loss can be
                compensated for by screen plantings of native trees and shrubs
                along the.western portion of the entry drive. These will also
                serve to preserve the rural character of the access site.

                4) Additional Permitting and consultation as necessary to
                ensure compliance with applicable federal and state laws and
                local ordinances.   Among agencies to be consulted are, as
                already mentioned, the U.S Army Corps of Engineers, the
                Virginia Marine Resources Commission, DCR Division of Soil and
                Water Conservation, and the Department of Historic Resources.
                other agencies may include the Department of Environmental
                Quality-- Water Division for water Protection Permits, the
                Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, and the City of
                Virginia Beach Planning office, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
                Service.


          IRREVERSIBLE CHANGES

                The proposed access facility may permanently affect the
          environment in a number of ways, none of which are likely to prove
          significant to the overall ecological health of the site or the NLR
          Preserve. Possible irreversible changes to the site as a result of
          construction are listed below.

                1) Construction of the proposed facility may increase surface
                runoff over the site..      However, because the relatively
                impervious areas (road and parking area) are narrow and
                linear, and because the slight increase is likely to be
                absorbed in nearby open, flat ground, it is not expected that
                runoff or erosion will be significantly increased.

                2) Construction of the proposed road and parking area will cut
                a 30, swath through an area presently wooded, with a loss of
                approximately 3.02 acres of vegetation. Over time the tree
                canopy will fill in over the road, but vegetation in the
                roadbed will be permanently displaced.

                3) Loss of vegetation will mean a loss of wildlife habitat as
                well.. Habitat destruction may only be partially compensated
                for by new plantings. Wildlife may also be displaced by human
                activity and noise.    But given the low-key nature of this
                project, loss of wildlife habitat to human disruption will be
                minimal.

                                            12








                    4) Construction of the boardwalk will intensifv shade over
                    approximately 4500 sauare feet of wetland. Such shading is
                    likely to have little impact on existing vegetation because
                    the affected areas are already shaded by woodland canopy.

                    In short,    this   project will not     greatly affect      its
              environment. Rather, it is hoped that this public access project
              will further wetland preservation and the protection of the
              environment by safely opening wetland areas to public observation
              and enjoyment, and educating and exciting individual citizens about
              their natural heritage in Virginia.








































                                                13













                           VIRGINIA BEACH NATURAL AREAS INVENTORY




                               NORTH LANDING RIVER WATERSHED -- PUNGO FERRY POCOSIN NATURAL AREA




                           SIZE: ca. 2200 acres                                BIODIVERSITY RANK: B2


                           LOCALITY: City of Virginia Beach


                           QUADRANGLE: Creeds                                  QUADRANGLE CODE* 3607651
                                             Pleasant     Ridge                                          3607661


                           LOCATIONt The site lies to the north and south of Pungo Ferry Road, west
                           of the North Landing River. It is bordered to the north by a large creek,
                           locally known to as Alton's Creek. The western boundary generally follows
                           the edge of upland vegetation. The southern border is Blackwater Creek,
                           and the eastern border is the North Landing River.



                                                          NATURAL HERITAGE RESOURCE SUMMARY TABLE



                                                                                              GLOBAL STATE USFWS VA        ELEMENT
                                                                                              RARITY RARITY LEGAL LEGAL    OCCUR.
                           COMMON NAME                      SCIENTIFIC NAME                   RANK   RANK   STATUS STATUS  RANK


                           * COMMUNITIES
                           POND PINE/FETTER-BUSH TALL       OLIGOTROPHIC SATURATED WOODLAND          SI                    A
                              POCOSIN


                              PLANTS
                           ASTER-LIKE BOLTONIA              BOLTONIA ASTEROIDES               G5     S2                    H
                           ATLANTIC WHITE CEDAR             CHAMAECYPARIS THYOIDES            G4     S2                    A
                           BIG-HEAD RUSH                    JUNCUS MEGACEPHALUS               G4G5   S2                    H
                           ELLIOTT'S ASTER                  ASTER PUNICEUS VAR ELLIOTTII      G5T3T4 SI                    U
                           LARGE CRANBERRY                  VACCINIUM MACROCARPON             G4     S2                    H
                           SHEEP-LAUREL                     KALMIA ANGUSTIFOLIA               G5     S2S3                  A


                              VERTEBRATES
                           CAREBRAKE RATTLESNAKE            CROTALUS HORRIDUS ATRICAUDATUS    G5TUO  S1             LE     U


                           *  INVERTEBRATES
                           GREAT PURPLE HAIRSTREAK          ATLIDES HALESUS                   G5     S3                    U
                           SAFFRON SKIPPER                  POANES AARONI AARONI              G4T4   S3                    U
                           SCARCE SWAMP SKIPPER             EUPHYES DUKESI                    G3G4   S2             C      A



                           SITE DESCRIPTION:             Pungo Ferry Road bisects the                  site and       af fords a
                           marvelous opportunity to observe the gradient of                            wetland vegetation.
                           Dense, nearly Impenetrable pocosin gives way to shrub swamp, and then to
                           robust emergent marsh bordering the North Landing River. The pocosin is
                           one of Virginia's finest examples of this community type. It has burned
                           frequently in the past and currently supports a woodland dominated by pond
                           pine, tall ericaceous shrubs, and Virginia chain-fern. The marshes are
                           exposed to wind tides, and the water is fresh to very-slightly brackish.




                                                                            B 52












                   VIRGINIA BEACH NATURAL AREAS INVENTORY



                   The upland forest within the forested wetlands at this site appears to be
                   unusual and is worthy of further study.

                   BOUNDARY JUSTIFICATIONt The conservation planning boundary includes the
                   significant natural community and habitat for the rare species.

                   THREATSt The primary threat facing this site is the lack of fire, which
                   is necessary to maintain the pacosin community. Common reed, an invasive,
                   exotic species may be threatening the natural vegetation of the marshes.

                   CURRENT STATUS:  Most of the site is owned and managed by the Virginia
                   Department of Conservation and Recreation as the North landing River
                   Natural Area Preserve. The preserve is a dedicated natural area, which
                   provides the strongest level of protection to natural heritage resources
                   through formal recognition and stringent legal safeguards against
                   conversion to inappropriate uses.  Additional lands are privately owned.

                   PROTECTION RECOMMENDATIONS: To ensure that the natural heritage resources
                   on this site persist, and to allow for safe management, the remainder of
                   the site, including upland buffers, needs to be given permanent legal
                   protection.


                   MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS: Develop and implement a management plan that
                   includes prescribed burning.    Monitor the health of the pocosin, the
                   associated rare species and common reed in the marsh.



































                                                      B 53



                                         DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION
                                                                              RECEIVED
                                                                              DEC 15 1993
Hazardous Waste Site Inspection:                                      CONSERVATION AND RECREATION
                                                                      DIVISION OF NATURAL HERITAGE
I.     Site Information:

       A.  Name of Site                            Kellam Property - Blackwater Road

       B.  Address:    4800 block of Blackwater Road
              GPIN #  14400010130000

       C.  Zip Code:   23457       D. County:     City of Virginia Beach

       E.  Site Coordinates:   Latitude   36  38' 10"
           Longitude                     76  05' 30"

       F.  Directions to Site:  property is located to the east of Blackwater
           Road at the 4800 block of Blackwater Road, approximately 1.8 miles
           north of Purgo Ferry Road.

       II. Background Information:
           
           A. Present Owner:  Floyd E Kellam, Jr. and Annie B. Kellam
              Phone:  (804) 427-2020                      Address:
               P.O. Box 6129 Virginia Beach, Virginia
                                            Zip Code:  23456
              Present Use:   forestal

           B. Previous Owner:  see Attachment A
              Phone: (  )                    Address:

              Date of Ownership:   From                      To
              Use of Site: 

           C. Septic Tanks and Drainfield:   Indicate location and
              condition of all known:    none on property

           D. Size:   110 acre tract








                               E       Topography:   flat


                               F       Aerial Photographs:                    Reviewed?           Yes        No
                                       Date of Photograph   1984

                                       Is there any questionable location on site which might
                                       indicate the presence of hazardous waste?   Yes     
                                       No            If Yes, identify

                               G.      Are there any Hazardous Waste Sites or Handlers in the
                                       area (within the same Zip Code Area or adjacent Zip
                                       Code Area)? (Handler List and CERCILS List) Yes
                                       No                    If Yes, list:

                                       1.                                                                 File
                                       2.     please refer to Attachment B                                File
                                       3.                                                                 File
                                       4.                                                                 File
                                       5.                                                                 File
                                       6.                                                                 File

                               H.      Site History (Previous Use): site has always been forested;
                                       no residences or structures ever on this tract. Acreage
                                       on Blackwater Road has been used for row-crop agriculture


                               I.      Present/Past Zoning of Site:  rural/agricultural
                                       Present/Past Permits issued by Department of Mines,
                                       Minerals & Energy:   none
                                       Present/Past Permits Issued by Locality   none


                   III. Site Inspection:
                               A.      Date:     Oct. 20, 1993, Oct 13, 1993, May 12, 1993

                               B.      Present Weather Conditions:  clear all days

                               C.      Previous (24 hours) Weather:  rain prior to Oct. 20, 1993 visit

                               D.      Was the present Owner or a Representative of the Owner
                                       on site during this inspection?   Yes          No

                               E.      Is there an Owner's Geology Report (Owner's File
                                       available on the site? Yes                                              No


                               F.      Water Resources:

                                       1. List the types of water resources located on site.
                                          evidence of water in ditches bourding the west, south and
                                          north sides of this parcel, also water in ditches running
                                          from north to south across this parcel. No ponds, lakes,
                                          running streams on this property.





                   02/91  -   ILH/SML                                                                      H01775 -    WM
 








                                2.    Do any     of the water resources issue an unusual or
                                      chemical odor? Yes                            No   *           Maybe

                                3.    Are any of the water resources absent of animal
                                      life?                    Yes                  No               Maybe

                                4.    Are any of the water resources absent plant
                                      life?                    Yes                  No               Maybe

                                5.    Do any of the water resources have a large amount
                                      of suspended particles?
                                                               Yes                  No               Maybe

                                6.    Is there an absence of plant life to-the water re-
                                      sources edge?            Yes                  No               Maybe

                                7.    Does the ground water have an unusual or chemical
                                      taste?                   Yes                  No               Maybe

                                B.    Are there any visible signs of any substances being
                                      discharged into the water resources? 
                                                               Yes                  No               Maybe

                                9.    Does the Health Department have any restriction on
                                      the quality of the ground water source?
                                                               Yes                  No               Maybe

                                10.   Are abandoned wells sealed?
                                                               Yes                  No               Maybe

                                11.   Are there any bad wells on record nearby?
                                                               Yes                  No               Maybe

                                12.   Is there any factor within the existing water shed
                                      that might affect this site (upstream)?
                                                               Yes                  No              Maybe
                                      If so, what?              



                                13.   Where is run off coming from?



                         G.     Soil Conditions:

                                1. Is there any abnormal discoloration of surface
                                      Soil?                    Yes                  No               Maybe

                                2.    Are there any signs of "stress" vegetation or unex-
                                      plained absence of vegetation?
                                                               Yes                  No               Maybe








                02/91 - ILH/SML.                                                             H01775 - WM
 








                           3. Is there any visible storage container (drums,
                                trunks, tanks, etc.)?
                                                   Yes             No           Maybe

                           4.   Are there depressions on site which might be sink
                                holes or collapsed wells or mines?
                                                   Yes             No           Maybe

                           5.   Are there any lagoons or holding facilities?
                                                                        
                                                   Yes             No           Maybe

                           6.   Is there any dumping on site? if Yes; what is
                                being dumped?         

                           7.   Owner or Owner's Representative knowledge as to any
                                buried problems (Example old farm dump)?
                                                   Yes             No           Maybe

                           8.   Are there any landfills on site or near the site?
                                                   Yes             No           Maybe

                      H. Facilities:

                           1. List the facilities on site: Their size, age,
                                general condition and past use:         There are no sturctures
                                 or facilities on this site.




                           2. Is an asbestos inspection needed?
                      I.   General Review:         Yes             No           Maybe

                           1. Are there any unexplained animal deaths?
                                                   Yes             No           Maybe

                           2. Is there now or has there been any toxic substance
                              (including pesticides or herbicides) tored on
                              Site?                Yes        	 No           Maybe
                           3. Is there a military installation adjacent to the
                                site?              Yes             No           Maybe

                      J. Does the inspection warrant futher investigation?
                                                   Yes             No           Maybe
                                        Inspection Agent:       
               LH/sml                                                 Signature
               2/4/91



              02/91 - ILH/SML                                             H01775 - WM
 






      DEPT HISTORIC RESOURCE TEL No. 804-225-4252                 Jan 27.93 13:50 No. 008






                         COMMONWEALTH of VIRGINIA
     Hugh C Miller. Director     Department of Historic Resources         TTD (804) 786-1934
                                        221 Governor Street               Telephone (804) 786-3143
                                       Richmond, Virginia 23219           FAX (804) 225-4261
            January 27, 1993


            Larry Smith
            Department Of Conservation And Recreation
            203 Governor Street
            Richmond, Virginia 23219

            RE: ACQUISITION NEAR NORTH LANDING RIVER
                 VIRGINIA BEACH, VIRGINIA
                 VDHR File No. 93-0071-F


            Dear Mr. Smith:

            Thank you for your letter of January 19, 1993 describing the
            project. Our staff has completed review of the project.     Based on
            the information submitted, we have determined that the proposed
            undertaking will have no effect-on historic properties.

            Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this project.   You have
            met the requirements of Section 106 of the National Historic
            Preservation Act of 1966, as amended. If you have any questions
            regarding staff review of the undertaking, or if we can provide
            further assistance, please contact Tony Opperman.


            sincerely,
            Bruce J. Larson
            Project Review Supervisor
 


  I
           North Lan&ng River Watershed Public Access and Visual Assessment         MI I
  I                                                               Appendix C
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
 I I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I




                                          Public Access Plarf ait-id Visual Resource
                                          Assessment for the North Landing
                                          River Watershed

                                                                     This plan will recommend appropriate public access opportunities to natural
                                                                     and cultural areas and identify significant visual resources within the North
                                                        . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Landing River watershed.


                          . ...... .      ....



                                                                                                                                             I    ccess and visual
                      A "[email protected]:
                                                                     A report containing a plan for the enhancement of pub ic a
                                                         ................
                                                                     resources in the North Landing River watershed. Implementation of this plan
                                                                     would provide educational opportunities, interpretative facilities and access to
                                                                     natural areas.




                                                                     October 1992 through December 1993


                                                        ............
                                                                     Grant Funding 1992 Coastal Zone Management Program Grant from the
                                                                     National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) awarded
                                                                     through the Virgina Council on the Environment (COE).



                                                                     The North Landing River contains one of the most diverse and unspoiled
                                                                     wetland systems in Virginia. The wetlands cover an area of more than 15,000
                                                                     acres in the Cities of Virginia Beach and Chesapeake. Although located near
                                                                     the fastest growing city in the Eastern United States - Virginia Beach, the
                                                                     area contains extensive freshwater marshes, pocosins, and forested swamps
                                                                     supporting twenty-four rare species. The area also provides important habitat
                                                          . ...      for breeding and migrating waterfowl. The North American Waterfowl
                                                                     Management Plan through the Atlantic Coast Joint Venture (covering an area
                                                                     from Maine to South Carolina) has identified the wetlands of the North
                                                                     Landing as a top priority for protection.

                                                                     In 1989, the North Landing River was designated as a Virginia Scenic River
                                                                     pursuant to the Virginia Scenic Rivers Act of 1970. A local interest group
                                                        ..........
                                                                     initiated the legislative process for protection and recognition of the river as a
                                                        ..........   natural, scenic, historic and recreational resource of statewide significance.
                                                                     The river designation includes the North Landing River from the North
                                                        ............
                                                                     Carolina line to the bridge at Route 165.

                                                                     The Department of Conservation and Recreation owns and manages a 1900-
                                      ... ..                         acre natural area preserve on the river. Tracts are located north and south of
                                                                     Pungo Ferry Road. The Nature Conservancy has acquired nine other tracts
                                       ..........
                                                                     totalling 3,800 acres. Those tracts extend north from the North Carolina state
                                       IR                            line to the Great Bridge locks on the Intracoastal Waterway, spanning a
                                                                     distance of 18 miles. It is the intention of public an private landowners to

                                                        ..........
                                                                     develop some level of compatible access, passive recreation, and
                                                                     interpretation for these natural areas. Each of these natural lands are lirrfited
                                                                     in their potential for public access development due to the lack of suitable
                                                                     upland access areas on the parcels.









                                                      W-N
                        North Landiii-g-River Natural.Area Preserve
                                                        1886 Acres, Virginia Beach

           Site QgEcri
                        ption Long forgotten and until recently                  Protection HistoT: The preserve was acquired by The
           unstudied, pocosins appeared impenetrable and were                    Nature Conservancy on behalf of the Commonwealth in
           alleged to contain dense populations of venomous                      two separate transactions. North Landing River was
           snakes. Today, pocosins are considered among the                      dedicated as a state natural area preserve in 1990 and is
           least understood and fastest disappearing habitats in the             managed by the Department of Conservation and
           southeastern United States. The North Landing River                   Recreation. Protection was made possible through a
           Preserve protects some of the finest remnant pocosins                 tremendous cooperative effort of The Commonwealth
           on Virginia's Coastal Plaim - This unique wetland                     of Virginia, The Nature Conservancy, the National Fish
           community and the forested swamps and freshwater                      and Wildlife Foundation, and Ducks Unlimited.
           tidal marshes of the lower North Landing River support
           as many as twenty-seven rare species. The area also                   Visitation The preserve is open year-round, but public
           provides important habitat for breeding and wintering                 access facilities have not yet been developecL The
           waterfowl.                                                            North Landing River, a designated state scenic    ' niver,
                                                                                 provides excellent canoeing opportunities and breath-
           Natural Histo Seemingly uniform in appearance, the                    taking scenery. For more information, please contact
           extensive freshwater marshes support a surprising                     the Department of Conservation and Recreation,
           diversity of species. These wetlands are strongly                     Division of Natural Heritage.
           influenced by wind tides. Winds blowing from the east
           push sea water through Currituck Ifflet and farther
           northward causing irregular water level fluctuations on
           the North Landing River. Many plants reach their
           northern range limits here, utilizing Currituck Sound as
           a corridor for movement northward. One of these,
           Sawgrass, a species common to the Florida Everglades,                                                                  t'..
           is well represented in the North Landing River marshes.
           Perhaps the most stunning and visible plant of the
           marsh is the orange flowered lance-leaved milkweed.
                                                                                          L
           The Least Bittern and King Rail are a few of the hidden
           treasures of the marsh.
                                                                                                    V.
                  Tucked away between the marsh and swamp
           forest is one of Virginia's rarest communities, the
           pocosin. Pocosins are peatlands characterized by a
           dense understory of evergreen shrubs such as InkberTy,
           Wax Myrtle, and Fetterbrash. Pond Pine, Atlantic
           White Cedar, Red Bay, and Sweet Bay occur as scat-                                  FresO water YMal Marsh
           tered individuals throughout the shrub bog. Tying the
           trees and shrubs together to form an impenetrable                   Location: The preserve can be reached via Blackwater
           tangle is the thomv vine, Greenbrier. Fire and other
           disturbances have played a major role in the develop-               and Pungo Ferry Roads. Several
           ment of this community. Prescribed burning research                 boat and canoe launch sites are
           will tell us a great deal about the effects of fire on              found along these roads.
           vegetative composition and productivity. Much re-                                                     "I/
           mains to be learned about this rare wetland. To this                                           lfr*j
           end, the Division of Natural Heritage and The Nature                                                                       @7
           Conservancy are developing a management plan which
           will address research needs, prescribe appropriate
           monitoring techniques., and guide habitat management.


                  ..........
                              Department of Conservation and Recreation - Division of Natural Heritage - Natural Area Preserve System
                                            1500 East Main Street Suite 312 - Richmond, Virginia 23219 - 804/786-7951