ENB Region 9 Completed Applications 04/05/2006

The project involves the construction of public access improvement, including parking and handicap access, at the Lower Birch Run Wetland Mitigation Area, in Freshwater Wetland No. KC-11 and its 100-foot Adjacent Area.  The existing mitigation area was created in conjunction with the construction of Route I-86.  The improvements will include a walkway and an observation platform/fishing pier at the west end of the wetland, dredging in the wetland within 35M (115ft +) of the pier to improve (fish) habitat, and an osprey nesting platform.

The application is for a 30 foot by 40 foot addition to the existing building, partly in the 100-foot Adjacent Area of Freshwater Wetland No. CY-13.  The northwest and southwest corners of the proposed addition would be upslope, 53 feet and 70 feet respectively, from the wetland boundary. The project also includes a 30 foot by 15 foot addition to the existing parking area, south of the building addition.

The applicant proposes a 33 acre expansion of the existing McCarthy Gravel Mine, currently permitted for 4 acres.  No changes in mine operating procedures is proposed. The estimated life of the expanded mine is 20 years and the reclamation objective is meadow with shrub and tree plantings, for recreation and wildlife habitat.  The mine site is at 12467 Spaulding Road.

The applicant proposes to relocate approximately 5,561 feet of Sawyer Creek as part of the reconstruction of 1.7 miles Niagara Falls Boulevard to widen the road to five lanes. The project is located from the north city line of the City of North Tonawanda to 0.3 miles north of Krueger Road in the Town of Wheatfield.