Draft Environmental Assessment Poynette-Dekorra Fire Protection District EOC/Fire/EMS Facility Village of Poynette, Wisconsin August 2009 U.S. Department of Homeland Security FEMA Region V 536 South Clark Street Chicago, IL 60605 Prepared by Strand Associates, Inc. 910 W. Wingra Drive Madison, WI 53715 Prepared for FEMA Region V 536 South Clark Street Chicago, IL 60605 TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION ONE: BACKGROUND 1 1.1 PROJECT AUTHORITY 1 1.2 PROJECT LOCATION 1 1.3 PURPOSE AND NEED 1 1.4 EXISTING FACILITY 2 SECTION 2: ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS 3 2.1 ALTERNATIVE 1–NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE 3 2.2 ALTERNATIVE 2–REMODEL EXISTING FACILITY 3 2.3 ALTERNATIVE 3–NEW FIRE STATION, WATER TOWER ROAD (PROPOSED ACTION) 3 SECTION THREE: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND IMPACTS 5 3.1 PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT 5 3.1.1 Geology, Seismicity and Soils 5 3.1.2 Water Resources and Water Quality (Surface Water) 6 3.1.3 Floodplain Management 7 3.1.4 Air Quality 7 3.2 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT 8 3.2.1 Terrestrial and Aquatic Environment 8 3.2.2 Wetlands (Executive Order 11990)/Water of the U.S. Including Wetlands 9 3.2.3 Threatened and Endangered Species 9 3.3 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 10 3.4 SOCIOECONOMICS 11 3.4.1 Zoning and Land Use/Transportation 11 3.4.2 Noise 12 3.4.3 Public Services and Utilities 13 3.4.4 Environmental Justice (Executive Order 12898) 14 3.4.5 Safety and Security 14 3.5 HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES 15 3.5.1 Historic Structures and Archaeological Resources 16 3.5.2 Tribal Coordination and Religious Sites 16 3.6 COMPARISON OF ALTERNATIVES 16 SECTION FOUR: CUMULATIVE IMPACTS 19 SECTION FIVE: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION 19 SECTION SIX: AGENCY COORDINATION AND PERMITS 19 SECTION SEVEN: REFERENCES 20 SECTION 8: LIST OF PREPARERS 20 Appendix A Figures Appendix B Site Photographs Appendix C Preliminary Plan Set Appendix D Agency Coordination Appendix E Stormwater Management and Erosion Control Plan Appendix F Public Notice Acronyms ADA Americans with Disabilities Act amsl above mean sea level APE Area of Potential Effects BMP Best Management Practice BRRTS Bureau for Remediation and Redevelopment Tracking System CAA Clean Air Act CEQ Council on Environmental Quality CFR Code of Federal Regulations CO carbon monoxide CWA Clean Water Act dB decibel EA Environmental Assessment EIS Environmental Impact Statement EMS Emergency Medical Service EO Executive Order EOC Emergency Operations Center ESA Endangered Species Act EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency FIRM Flood Insurance Rate Map FONSI Finding of No Significant Impact FPPA Farmland Protection Policy Act HSG hydrologic soil group Ldn Day-Night Average Sound Level NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NFIP National Flood Insurance Program NHPA National Historic Preservation Act NO2 nitrogen dioxide NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service NRHP National Register of Historic Places O3 ozone OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration Pb lead PM2.5 particulate matter less than 2.5 microns PM10 particulate matter less than 10 microns RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act SHPO State Historic Preservation Office SHWIMS Solid and Hazardous Waste Information Management System SO2 sulfur dioxide SWDV Surface Water Data Viewer SWPPP Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan THPO Tribal Historic Preservation Office USACE U.S. Army Corps of Engineers USDA U.S. Department of Agriculture USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service VOC volatile organic compound WDNR Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources WPDES Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System SECTION 1: BACKGROUND 1.1 PROJECT AUTHORITY The Village of Poynette, Wisconsin has applied to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for assistance with an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Project. The FY 2009 EOC Grant Program is intended to improve emergency management and preparedness capabilities by supporting flexible, sustainable, secure, and interoperable EOCs with a focus on addressing identified deficiencies and needs. The EOC Grant Program is authorized by section 614 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 6196c) as amended by the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007 (Public Law 110-53). Funds for the FY 2009 EOC Grant Program are appropriated under the Consolidated Security, Disaster Assistance, and Continuing Appropriations Act, 2009 (Public Law 110-329). In accordance with 44 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) for FEMA, Subpart B, Agency Implementing Procedures, Part 10.9, an Environmental Assessment (EA) is being prepared pursuant to Section 102 of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969, as implemented by the regulations promulgated by the President’s Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ; 40 CFR Parts 1500-1508). The purpose of the EA is to analyze the potential environmental impacts of the proposed project, and to determine whether to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) or a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI). 1.2 PROJECT LOCATION The Village of Poynette is a rural community located approximately 30 miles northeast of the capital city of Madison, in Columbia County, in south-central Wisconsin (refer to Figures in Appendix A). The new EOC will be constructed in the Village of Poynette, but will provide facilities for the Poynette/Dekorra Fire Protection District. The Poynette/Dekorra Fire Protection District provides safety and security protection for a 60-square-mile service area that includes 3 municipalities serving more than 5,000 people. Alternative 1 No Action, would continue to utilize the existing facility. Alternative 2, Remodel Existing Facility, would also utilize the existing facility, located at 235 South Main Street in the Village of Poynette. Alternative 3, New Fire Station at Water Tower Road is the proposed action. The proposed project site is located at the northeast quadrant of the intersection of North Street and Water Tower Road in the Village of Poynette. Maps of the Village of Poynette and Project Location Maps showing locations of the existing fire station and the proposed location for the new EOC facility are provided in Appendix A. Photographs of the proposed Water Tower Road site and surrounding area are provided as Appendix B. Geographic coordinates of the proposed project site are 43° 23' 47.8" N, 89° 24' 26.2" W. The proposed project site is bordered by Water Tower Road to the west, North Street to the south, the Village of Poynette water tower to the north, and vacant farmland to the east. No wetlands, floodplains, or waterways are located adjacent to the project site. The nearest waterways are a tributary to Hinkson Creek, about 2,400 feet north, and Rowan Creek about 3,000 feet to the southeast. 1.3 PURPOSE AND NEED The investment grant will help fund a new EOC/Fire/Emergency Medical Service (EMS) facility to replace the current 30-year-old outdated facility. The new facility will meet the needs of emergency operations, fire fighting and emergency medical services personnel and operations. The new facility is needed to provide up-to-date safety and security protection for the 60-square-mile service area of 3 municipalities serving more than 5,000 people. Within this area are the major national and state transportation corridors of I-90/94-39, US 51, and the Canadian Pacific Railroad lines. Lake Wisconsin, a dam-controlled major recreational area also has emergency needs serviced by this facility. A needs assessment was prepared in 2006 by Fire Chief Jim Tomlinson and updated in 2007 and 2008 by Strand Associates, Inc. The proposed project provides for, or corrects, the following EOC needs and deficiencies recognized at the existing facility. 1. American with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accessibility: The facility is not ADA compliant and training agencies will not continue coming to the facility because of this. 2. Apparatus Bay: Inadequate bay area for District equipment results in unsafe conditions for firefighter access during a response. 3. Surge Parking Area: There are insufficient parking spaces for a surge events and the site is constrained from expansion. 4. Securing Site Perimeter: The proximity of other buildings makes securing the area difficult. 5. Operations Room: The facility has inadequate size and equipment. 6. Conference and Media Room: The facility lacks a separate space for these functions. 7. Secured Communications Center/Room: The facility has a room that is inadequate in size and equipment. 8. Communications Equipment and Infrastructure: The facility has inadequate computers and computer stations for visitors, inadequate phone lines, wireless radio systems, television connection redundancy, and conduit and cabling capacity. 9. Training Space: The facility has insufficient training space and support equipment. 10. Overnight Sleeping Quarters: The facility has none. 11. Food Preparation Facilities: The facility has a limited food preparation area. 12. Records Storage: The facility has inadequate and insecure storage space. 13. Air Quality: Diesel fume exhaust systems in the Apparatus Bay do not meet current building code for necessary air changes (no Diesel or CO2 alarm systems are installed to trigger ventilation). There is no positive pressure in office areas to keep fumes from entering from the Apparatus Bay. 1.4 EXISTING FACILITY The existing Poynette-Dekorra Fire Station provides emergency services to a population of approximately 5,000 in the Village of Poynette, the Townships of Dekorra, and a portion of the Township of Lowville, covering a 60-square-mile service area. The Poynette-Dekorra Fire Department plays an active role in providing public assistance and mitigation during community disasters. The existing facility is located at 235 South Main Street in the Village of Poynette (refer to the figures provided in Appendix A). The existing fire department facility is a metal building structure built in the mid-1970s. While it is centrally located, the site is landlocked with no additional property available on any side for expansion. The existing facility has four apparatus bays that must be stacked from the street side and there is no drivethrough capacity. The existing building is approximately 10,000 square feet (SF). SECTION TWO: ALTERNATIVE ANALYSIS 2.1 ALTERNATIVE 1–NO ACTION Under the No Action Alternative, the Poynette-Dekorra Fire Department would continue to operate from the existing 30-year-old facility. There would be no environmental impacts associated with the No Action Alternative, but the EOC needs, identified in the Needs Assessments, would not be addressed. The existing facility is outdated and does not meet current emergency service facility needs or the needs of fire fighting and emergency medical services personnel and operations. 2.2 ALTERNATIVE 2–REMODEL EXISTING FACILITY The existing fire department facility is a metal building structure built in the mid-1970s and is located at 235 South Main Street in the Village of Poynette (near downtown). While it is centrally located, the site is landlocked with no additional property on any side for expansion. The site is bordered by South Main Street to the west, Rowan Creek to the north and east, and Water Street and a residence to the south. The existing facility has four apparatus bays that must be stacked from the street side and there is no drivethrough capacity. While there would be minimal environmental impacts associated with the Remodel Existing Facility Alternative, many of the EOC needs identified could not be addressed by the alternative. The existing building is approximately 10,000 SF and the Space Needs Study indicated the space requirement is in excess of double that amount. At the existing site, with a zoning variance, it is estimated that remodeling could increase the size of the existing facility to approximately 12,000 to 13,000 SF. Remodeling the existing facility could not meet the identified space needs and the new facility under design is approximately 22,000 SF. The other major short comings of the Remodel Existing Facility Alternative are that the need for surge parking and a secure site perimeter cannot be met at the existing site. 2.3 ALTERNATIVE 3–NEW FIRE STATION, WATER TOWER ROAD (PROPOSED ACTION) A new facility at the Water Tower Road site will provide for current needs on a local scale and will also complement state and county facilities. Coordination with these entities will provide a cost-effective and flexible facility. The Water Tower Road site is a 5.47-acre parcel located in the northwestern area of the Village of Poynette. The parcel is zoned industrial and is located in a relatively sparsely developed area that historically has been agricultural land. The lot that was purchased by the Village about 10 years ago as a potential future site for a new fire station or potentially for another Village facility. A 1,200 SF cold storage building was constructed on the northwest corner of the site in 2008. The parcel is bordered to the west by Water Tower Road and the Alliant Energy facility, to the south by North Street and residences, to the east by farm fields, and to the north by the Village water tower site and farm fields. The project site and lands to the north, west, and east are agricultural land with the exception of an existing cold storage building, the water tower site, and the Alliant Energy facility. In recent years, residential and commercial development has expanded into the area. The proposed project consists of a single-story fire station, approximately 22,000 SF in size. A paved parking lot and sidewalks will be placed around the building. New curb and gutter and storm sewer will be constructed to drain runoff from the parking lot. Stormwater will be managed with 0.42 acre-feet of wet detention basin volume for storm events up to and including the 100-year event. Infiltration basin volume will be 0.08 acre-feet for storm events up to and including the 10-year event. The proposed site grading plan divides the existing drainage basin into two on-site drainage basins to the north and south, with a third smaller off-site drainage subbasin to the east. The existing gravel Water Tower Road will be replaced with a paved street with curb and gutter from North Street to the existing access driveway to the Alliant Energy building to the west. This roadway reconstruction is exempt from the following design criteria. The proposed design will provide adequate surge parking and flexible spaces that serve the needs of EOC as well as Fire & EMS personnel, making the best use of federal and local funds. If a new facility on a new site is built, the existing station on South Main Street will be sold. The preliminary plan set for this alternative is provided as Appendix C. The proposed project will be designed in accordance with the ADA, State of Wisconsin Commercial Building Code, local ordinances, and federal regulations. The building will be equipped with a fire alarm and fire suppression (sprinkler) system. The on-site emergency generator will power the entire facility if there is a power failure and will be set-up to run with propane if the natural gas lines are disrupted. The building will have a card-reader security system providing access only to authorized personnel. The new facility will be designed to support the functions necessary for both fire service and EOC functions. The primary areas associated with EOC-related functions in the event of an emergency are as follows: 1. Operations Room: The Training Room will serve as the Main EOC Operations Room during an event. The room will be equipped with voice/data cabling (including a ceiling-mounted voice/data rail system for the addition of tables in the center of the room). There will be a ceiling-hung digital projector with a roll-down screen and televisions on wall brackets. The overall room size will be 1,800 square feet with a moveable partition system that can be deployed to create two rooms. During normal use the room will function as the Training Room for the Fire District, but will be available for community groups (as designated by the Fire Chief). 2. Conference Room: The Conference Room will be located near the Training Room and will be available for meetings of emergency personnel during an event. Otherwise, this room will be used for Fire District meetings. 3. Secured Communications/Radio Room: The Radio Room will be the central communications hub during an event (in support of the EOC Operations Room). Radio and other communications equipment will be permanently kept in this room along with area maps. 4. Communications Equipment and Infrastructure: There will be a dedicated Telecommunications Room with extra space available for EOC event needs and the building will be designed with voice/data cabling. All electrical outlets and lighting will be automatically switched over to the emergency generator. At the north end of the building four exterior lockable electrical switches will be installed along the back wall to provide power for emergency trailers that may be brought to the site by the emergency government. 5. Restroom Facilities: Toilet rooms will be adjacent to the Main EOC Operations Room for use by emergency personnel. Additional toilets and showers will be in the locker rooms adjacent to the apparatus bays and at the dormitory area. These toilet rooms will typically be used by the public and fire district. 6. Overnight Sleeping Quarters: The Fire District will have a dormitory area with a Day Room, a unisex toilet/shower room, and two dorm rooms. If necessary, cots can be placed in the Day Room area, various office rooms, or areas of the Apparatus Bay, as designated by the Fire Chief. 7. Food Preparation Facilities: There will be a large commercial Kitchen located off the Main EOC Operations Room, featuring a pass-through window. Food can also be prepared at the Kitchen and carried to an alternate location such as the Day Room. In normal use, the Kitchen will function to provide dinners in the Training Room by the Fire District or community groups. It can also used by personnel in the adjacent dormitory area. 8. Incident Command/Muster Room: Directly off the Apparatus Bay will be a room (approximately 720 square feet) for use as an informal gathering space for firefighters. The room will also function as an Incident Command area during emergency and special fire-related events. The room will be equipped with voice data and television on a wall bracket. 9. Communications Tower/Training Tower: At the north end of the building, there will be a 34-foot high masonry tower with a railing around the top. The tower will be utilized for fire fighter training (hose advancement, rappelling, and high-ladder rescue) and will have an internal stair with a roof hatch. It will also function as a communications tower to allow temporary set-up of emergency communications antennas (such as those used by Ham Radio systems). In addition, the tower will have an exterior entry and a grated floor over a concrete pit so that in an emergency, it can function as a decontamination shower area (the drain line has a valve to keep the contents from discharge to the sanitary sewer). SECTION THREE: AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND IMPACTS 3.1 PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT 3.1.1 Geology, Seismicity, and Soils The project area is located in west-central Columbia County, Wisconsin. The southeast half of Columbia County is in the Eastern Ridges and Lowlands province and the northwest half is in the Central Plain province (Martin 1965). The Central Plain is a crescent-shaped province extending from Marinette County at the Michigan border, southwest to Columbia County, and northwest to Burnett County at the Minnesota Border. At the surface it is flat or with irregular hills marked by buttes, cliffs, and irregular bluffs. The region’s substrate is mainly sandstone. Glaciers left deposits of soil and rock and also scoured basins forming lakes of which the most prominent is Green Lake. The Eastern Ridges and Lowlands province covers the entire Lake Michigan shoreline and extends toward the west. The province is covered by a variety of limestone layers that typically run north and south, parallel to the Lake Michigan shoreline. Glaciers formed the topography and character of the province by depositing sand, gravel, clay, rock, and mineral deposits. (Martin 1965). According to the U.S. Geological Survey 7.5-minute topographic map for the area, the approximate elevation of the proposed project site is about 890 to 860 feet above mean sea level (amsl). Surface topography slopes from north to south. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) online Web Soil Survey, indicates the proposed project site contains soils consisting of Griswold silt loam and Lapeer fine sandy loam, both with 6 to 12 percent slopes. Neither soil is considered a hydric soil. In addition, soil samples were taken at 11 locations on the site. The surface materials present at the boring locations consist of about 10 to 12 inches of dark brown sandy silt topsoil. The surface materials at the borings are generally underlain by natural reddish brown silty sand to sand and gravel to the termination depths of the borings at depths of about 5 to 25 feet. The hydrologic soil group (HSG) present is HSG B. Soils in the proposed project area are classified as prime farmland (USDA 2009), which is generally subject to the Farmland Protection Policy Act (FPPA). The FPPA states that Federal agencies must “minimize the extent to which Federal programs contribute to the unnecessary conversion of farmland to nonagricultural uses…” A Farmland Conversion Impact Rating form (AD-1006) was completed (Appendix D) and resulted in a site assessment score of 53. The NRCS does not require the submission of Form AD-1006 in cases where the site assessment criteria score (Part VI of the form) is less than 60 points for each alternative; therefore, it has been determined that FPPA would not apply to the proposed project. Alternative 1 No Action–Under the No Action Alternative, no impacts to geology or soils would occur. Alternative 2 Remodel Existing Facility–Under this alternative, construction activities would not be deep enough to impact underlying geologic resources. Short-term impacts to soils would occur during the construction period. Appropriate best management practices (BMPs) such as silt fence, prompt planting of vegetation, and completion of landscaping would be used to minimize runoff. Alternative 3 New Fire Station, Water Tower Road (Proposed Action)–Under the Proposed Action Alternative, construction activities would not be deep enough to impact underlying geologic resources. Short-term impacts to soils would occur during the construction period and 19,600 SY of the site would be disturbed. Appropriate BMPs such as silt fence, prompt planting of vegetation, and completion of landscaping would be used to minimize runoff. 3.1.2 Water Resources and Water Quality (Surface Water) The Clean Water Act (CWA), as amended in 1977, established the basic framework for regulating discharges of pollutants into waters of the United States. Existing site topography is shown on the project maps in Appendix A. The 5.47acre project site currently is vacant and grass-covered with the exception of an existing cold storage building and a water tower north of the proposed building area. The topography of the project site is hilly with an elevation difference of approximately 30 feet, sloping to the southeast. The proposed project consists of a single-story fire station, approximately 21,000 SF in size with a parking lot and sidewalks around the building. New curb and gutter and storm sewer will be constructed to drain runoff from the parking lot. Sufficient stormwater detention volume will be provided to compensate for new impervious area that is being constructed. The proposed site grading plan divides the existing drainage basin into two on-site drainage basins to the north and south, with a third smaller offsite drainage subbasin to the east. Additional details are provided in the Stormwater Management and Erosion Control Plan provided as Appendix E. Alternative 1 No Action–Under the No Action Alternative, no adverse impacts to surface water would occur. Alternative 2 Remodel Existing Facility–Under this Alternative, there would likely be little to no direct permanent impacts to surface waters because the impervious area would likely remain about the same. However, temporary short-term impacts to the adjacent Rowan Creek could occur during the construction period because of altered site runoff and additional soil erosion. To reduce impacts to surface water, the applicant would implement appropriate BMPs, such as installing silt fences and prompt replanting of bare soils. Depending on the extent of remodeling and the resultant impacts to the site, potential changes to the footprint of the existing building and parking area could impact Rowan Creek. Impacts to Rowan Creek and associated wetlands adjacent to the site could warrant a detailed wetland/stream delineation and coordination with the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) and assessment of the need for a Section 404 permit (refer to the wetland and floodplain mapping provided in Appendix A). Alternative 3 New Fire Station, Water Tower Road (Proposed Action)–Under the Proposed Action Alternative, there would be no direct permanent impacts to surface waters. However, temporary short-term impacts to downstream surface waters could occur during the construction period because of soil erosion. To reduce impacts to surface water, the applicant would implement appropriate BMPs, such as installing silt fences and prompt replanting of bare soils. 3.1.3 Floodplain Management (Executive Order 11988) Executive Order (EO) 11988 (Floodplain Management) requires Federal agencies to avoid direct or indirect support of development within the 100-year floodplain whenever there is a practicable alternative. Specifically, EO 11988 prohibits federal agencies from funding construction in the 100-year floodplain unless there are no practicable alternatives. FEMA’s regulations for complying with EO 11988 are promulgated in 44 CFR Part 9. FEMA uses Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) to identify the regulatory 100-year floodplain for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Consistent with EO 11988, FIRMs were examined during the preparation of this EA using the Surface Water Data Viewer (SWDV), an interactive mapping tool for wetlands, dam safety, floodplain, and designated waters, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) SWDV, 2009. The proposed project site is located outside the 500-year floodplain (refer to the wetland and floodplain mapping provided in Appendix A). Alternative 1 No Action–Under the No Action Alternative, no impacts to the floodplain would occur. Alternative 2 Remodel Existing Facility–Under this Alternative, remodeling of the existing facility would need to be constrained so that impacts to the 100-year floodplain would be avoided. Alternative 3 New Fire Station, Water Tower Road (Proposed Action)–Under the Proposed Action Alternative, no impacts to the floodplain are anticipated. 3.1.4 Air Quality The Clean Air Act (CAA) requires that states adopt ambient air quality standards. The standards have been established to protect the public from potentially harmful amounts of pollutants. Under the CAA, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) establishes primary and secondary air quality standards. Primary air quality standards protect the public health, including the health of “sensitive populations, such as people with asthma, children, and older adults.” Secondary air quality standards protect public welfare by promoting ecosystems health, and preventing decreased visibility and damage to crops and buildings. The EPA has set national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for the following six criteria pollutants: ozone (O3), particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and lead (Pb). According to the EPA, Columbia County is in attainment for all six criteria pollutants, meaning that criteria air pollutants do not exceed the NAAQS (EPA, 2009). Alternative 1 No Action–Under the No Action Alternative, there would be no impacts to air quality because no construction would occur. Alternative 2 Remodel Existing Facility–Under this Alternative, short-term impacts to air quality would occur during remodeling/construction activities at the existing facility. To reduce impacts, the construction contractors would be required to wet down construction areas as needed to mitigate fugitive dust. Emissions from fuel-burning engines (e.g., heavy equipment and earthmoving machinery) could also temporarily increase the levels of some of the criteria pollutants, such as CO, NO2, O3, PM10, and noncriteria pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). To mitigate these emissions, fuel-burning equipment run times would be kept to a minimum and equipment would be properly maintained. Alternative 3 New Fire Station, Water Tower Road (Proposed Action)–Under the Proposed Action Alternative, short-term impacts to air quality would occur during remodeling/construction activities at the existing facility. To reduce impacts, the construction contractors would be required to wet down construction areas as needed to mitigate fugitive dust. Emissions from fuel-burning engines (e.g., heavy equipment and earthmoving machinery) could also temporarily increase the levels of some of the criteria pollutants, such as CO, NO2, O3, PM10, and noncriteria pollutants such as VOCs. To mitigate these emissions, fuel-burning equipment run times would be kept to a minimum and equipment would be properly maintained. 3.2 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT 3.2.1 Terrestrial and Aquatic Environment The proposed project site is a farm field on the northwestern edge of the Village. According to area residents, the site and surrounding lands have been in agricultural production for at least the past 50 years. In the 1980s, the Village water tower was constructed adjacent to the proposed site (to the north) and Water Tower Road was constructed for access to the site. Also, the Alliant Energy site to the west of Water Tower Road was constructed in the early 1980s. The remaining land around the site, north of North Street is still actively farmed. The area south of North Street is a residential neighborhood that was previously farm land. The homes in the neighborhood were built from about 1990 to 2005. The proposed site supports wildlife common to rural agricultural land, including song birds, reptiles, amphibians, small mammals, and white-tailed deer. Because the site and surrounding area has been farmed and developed, the area would be considered to have limited value for plant and wildlife species. Coordination with the WDNR was initiated in a letter from Strand Associates, Inc. to the WDNR dated June 25, 2009. The letter requested WDNR review of the proposed action. The WDNR response provided concurrence with the preliminary finding of no wetlands, waterways, or endangered resource impacts at the project site (refer to agency correspondence in Appendix D). Alternative 1 No Action–Under the No Action Alternative, there would be no impacts to the terrestrial or aquatic environments. Alternative 2 Remodel Existing Facility–Under this Alternative, impact to the terrestrial environment would not be a concern. The existing fire station and properties surrounding it are fully developed and consist of commercial and residential properties. Potential short-term negative impacts to the aquatic environment of Rowan Creek and its wetlands could result during construction. The most likely potential negative impact would be result of a decrease in the quality of stormwater runoff from the construction site. Alternative 3 New Fire Station, Water Tower Road (Proposed Action)–Under the Proposed Action Alternative, impacts to nearby aquatic environments would not be a concern. The nearest stream or wetland would be an unnamed tributary to Hinkson Creek, located about 2,400 feet north. Impacts to the terrestrial environment would result from the development of the site. About 19,600 SY of the site’s existing vegetation and topsoil would be disturbed. No endangered resources would be impacted, but some plants would be removed and some animals would be temporarily displaced. The site’s new landscaping will include trees and bushes and stormwater ponds that will provide habitat for wildlife. 3.2.2 Wetlands (Executive Order 11990)/Water of the U.S. Including Wetlands The USACE regulates the discharge of dredged or filled material into waters of the U.S., including wetlands, pursuant to Section 404 of the CWA. Additionally, EO 11990 (Protection of Wetlands) requires Federal agencies to avoid, to the extent possible, adverse impacts on wetlands that may result from federally funded actions. Wetlands in Wisconsin are also protected by the WDNR. No wetlands or surface waters have been identified on-site or adjacent to it. The nearest mapped wetland area is about 1,500 feet northeast of the proposed project site. (WDNR SWDV 2009). The wetland is associated with the un-named tributary of Hinkson Creek, which is about 2,400 feet northeast of the site (refer to resource mapping in Appendix A). Alternative 1 No Action–Under the No Action Alternative, no impacts to waters of the U.S., including wetlands, would occur. Alternative 2 Remodel Existing Facility–Under Alternative 2, construction and the expansion of the building and parking area footprints would need to be constrained to avoid impacts to the wetlands associated with Rowan Creek, east of the site. During construction, short-term adverse impacts to waters of the U.S., including wetlands, could occur at the proposed project site. Use of BMPs would minimize erosion at the site and mitigate potential impacts to water resources in the area. Appropriate BMPs would be required at the construction site, including, but are not limited to, the installation of silt fences and the revegetation of bare soils to minimize erosion. Alternative 3 New Fire Station, Water Tower Road (Proposed Action)–Under the Proposed Action Alternative, no impacts to waters of the U.S., including wetlands, would occur because none are present on or near the proposed project site. Wetlands closest to the proposed project site (1,500 feet northeast) are outside of the area to be disturbed by grading or filling and would not be directly or indirectly impacted by construction. During construction, the use of BMPs would minimize erosion at the site and mitigate potential impacts to the nearest water resources. Appropriate BMPs would be required at the construction site, including, but not limited to, the installation of silt fences and the revegetation of bare soils to minimize erosion. The project’s Stormwater Management and Erosion Control Plan is provided as Appendix E. In June 2009, the WDNR Science Services Bureau was sent a project review request with information identifying the proposed site and describing the proposed action. Science Services is responsible for overall coordination of the Wisconsin Environmental Policy Act (WEPA) implementation within WDNR. Signed into law in 1972, WEPA defines the state's environmental policy and requires the WDNR and other state agencies to consider the environmental effects of their actions to the extent possible under their other statutory authorities. The Department's procedures for implementing WEPA are described in detail in Wisconsin Administrative Code NR 150. In an e-mail response, the WDNR did not identify any concerns with the proposed project (Appendix D). 3.2.3 Threatened and Endangered Species The proposed project site is currently in agricultural production and area residents report the site and lands surrounding it have been actively farmed for at least the past 50 years. In the 1980s, the Village water tower and Water Tower Road were constructed adjacent to the project site. At about the same time, the Alliant Energy site to the west of Water Tower Road was constructed. Other lands around the site (located north of North Street) are still actively farmed. The area south of North Street is former agricultural land that is now a residential neighborhood, developed between about 1990 and 2005. The proposed project site supports wildlife common to rural agricultural land, including song birds, reptiles, amphibians, small mammals, and white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). In accordance with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973, the project area was evaluated for the potential occurrences of federally listed threatened and endangered species. The ESA requires any federal agency that funds, authorizes or carries out an action to ensure that their action is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any endangered or threatened species or result in the destruction or adverse modification of designated critical habitats (FEMA 1996). Research was performed to identify any potential Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, or Candidate species at the proposed project site. The following resources were reviewed: the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) listing of Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, or Candidate species for Columbia County and the WDNR Aquatic and Terrestrial Resource Inventory mapping. The USFWS lists the following federally endangered and threatened species for Columbia County (USFWS 2009): Whooping Crane (Non-essential Experimental Population), Eastern Massasauga (Candidate), Sheepnose (Candidate), and Mead's Milkweed (Threatened). On the USFWS Web site, the Section 7, Technical Assistance Step by Step Instructions were followed to determine if any species or critical habitats may be present within the action area. Evaluation found that the Whooping Crane is not a listed species and that for the Eastern Massasauga, Sheepnose, and Mead’s Milkweed, suitable habitat is not present in the action area. Therefore, it was determined that these species and critical habitat are not present and no further consultation is required. Refer to documentation provided in Appendix D. In June 2009, the WDNR Science Services Bureau was sent a project review request with information identifying the proposed site and describing the proposed action. In an e-mail response the WDNR indicated that they have no significant environmental issues with the project and that there are no wetlands, waterways, or endangered resource impacts associated with the project (Appendix D). Alternative 1 No Action–Under the No Action Alternative, no impacts to threatened and endangered species would occur. Alternative 2 Remodel Existing Facility–Under this Alternative, no impacts to threatened and endangered species would occur. Alternative 3 New Fire Station, Water Tower Road (Proposed Action)–Under the Proposed Action Alternative, 19,600 SY of the project site would be disturbed for construction of the new EOC facility. Water Tower Road would also be reconstructed with pavement and curb and gutter. No impacts to threatened and endangered species would occur. 3.3 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS To identify potential hazardous materials sites in the vicinity of the project area, environmental databases were reviewed in June 2009. The state databases were accessed through the WDNR Contaminated Lands Environmental Action Network (CLEAN) (WDNR CLEAN, 2009). The state databases include: the WDNR Bureau for Remediation and Redevelopment Tracking System (BRRTS) database; the WDNR RR Sites Map; the WDNR Solid and Hazardous Waste Information Management System (SHWIMS), the WDNR listing of Superfund sites in Wisconsin, the WDNR Historic Registry of Waste Disposal Sites, and the Wisconsin Department of Commerce (WDCOM) Storage Tank Database. Also accessed was the EPA Envirofacts Data Warehouse (EPA, 2009). The databases were queried to identify sites of concern at or adjacent to the proposed project site. Only one site, the Alliant Energy Facility at 701 West North Street, was identified near the proposed project. The Alliant facility is located adjacent to the proposed site, on the west side of Water Tower Road. The Alliant facility is listed in the EPA’s Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Information System as a general automotive repair facility and Small Quantity Generator. This listing and classification is not a concern and no suspected or documented contamination exists at the site. The nearest site identified on BRRTS is the Co-op Country Partners-Poynette Bulk Plant site at 209 East North Street, approximately 1,500 feet east of the site. No subsurface material testing was conducted in the project area as part of this analysis. Conclusions are based on database review and review of topographic maps and aerial photographs. Alternative 1 No Action–Under the No Action Alternative, there would be no construction and there would be no impacts related to hazardous materials or waste. Alternative 2 Remodel Existing Facility–Under this Alternative, no hazardous materials or waste-related impacts would be anticipated. Proposed construction activities would require only minimal excavation and should not expose hazardous materials or produce hazardous wastes. Any hazardous materials discovered, generated, or used during construction would be handled and disposed of in accordance with applicable local, State, and Federal regulations. Alternative 3 New Fire Station, Water Tower Road (Proposed Action)–Under the Proposed Action Alternative, no hazardous materials or waste-related impacts would be anticipated. Proposed construction activities would require excavation for stormwater basins, site grading, and the building foundation, but no hazardous materials would be anticipated. Any hazardous materials discovered, generated, or used during construction would be handled and disposed of in accordance with applicable local, State, and Federal regulations. 3.4 SOCIOECONOMICS 3.4.1 Zoning and Land Use/Transportation The proposed project site is located at the northeast quadrant of the intersection of North Street and Water Tower Road, in the northwestern corner of the Village of Poynette. This area is zoned rural development (RD) and industrial (I) and the Village is encouraging development of the area north of North Street as an industrial park. Draft land use maps from the Village’s Comprehensive Plan are provided in Appendix A. The proposed project site and surrounding parcels are mainly undeveloped. Farm fields, the Village water tower, Alliant Energy and 2 to 3 other industrial facilities (to the west) are located north of North Street. To the south is a residential neighborhood. North Street extends to the west of the site approximately 300 yards and Water Tower Road is a dead end at the water tower. Access to north-south routes and routes to the west are accessible by traveling east on North Street to County Q (Main Street) or US 51. Traffic can travel north or south on these routes and access Kent Road or County CS for travel to the west. In the future, Water Tower Road may be extended north to Kent Road and North Street may be extended west to McMillan Road. Alternative 1 No Action–Under the No Action Alternative, there would be no changes to zoning or transportation. Alternative 2 Remodel Existing Facility–Under Alternative 2, there would be temporary increases in the volume of construction-related traffic in the immediate vicinity of the proposed project site. Because the fire station site is small and space is limited and because the site is located on South Main Street, construction planning and staging of construction activities would be needed. Traffic disruptions on Main Street and slower traffic flow would be likely during construction. To mitigate potential delays, construction vehicles and equipment would be stored on-site during construction to the extent possible. Because the facility is an active fire station, an off-site location would be needed for storage of most of the construction vehicles and equipment. Appropriate traffic control and signage would be utilized. Over the long term, there would be little to no vehicle traffic increase at the proposed project site. The site is currently used as the fire station and is located on South Main Street. Because of the size, the site and numerous constraints on expansion at the site, any remodeling and expansion of the facility would be limited. No significant increase in the number of facility-related vehicles coming and going from the site would be expected. Alternative 2, Remodeling Existing Facility is not consistent with the Draft Poynette Comprehensive Plan. Current land uses at and around the existing facility are Institutional (the fire station site), Residential, Park, and General Business. The proposed land use in the Draft Comprehensive Plan identifies the site as transitioning to Residential and surrounding properties converting from General Business to Residential with some expansion of Park lands. Alternative 3 New Fire Station, Water Tower Road (Proposed Action)–Under the Proposed Action Alternative, there would be only minor temporary increases in the volume of construction-related traffic in the immediate vicinity of the proposed project site. This would potentially result in a slower traffic flow for the duration of the construction phase. To mitigate potential delays, construction vehicles and equipment would be stored on-site during construction. There is ample room at the site for equipment and materials staging. Appropriate traffic control and signage would be utilized. Over the long term, vehicle traffic would increase at the proposed project site, primarily when EMS personnel are training or responding to traffic accidents, fires, severe weather, or other emergency events. Water Tower Road will be expanded and the intersection of North Street and Water Tower Road will be reconstructed to accommodate EMS vehicles. No significant adverse impacts to transportation, site access, or traffic levels are anticipated. Alternative 3, New Fire Station, Water Tower Road (Proposed Action) is consistent with the Draft Poynette Comprehensive Plan. Current land uses at and around the proposed site are Agriculture (the proposed EOC site) with Institutional, General Business, Agriculture, and Residential (south of North Street) adjacent. The proposed land use in the Draft Comprehensive Plan identifies the site as transitioning from Agriculture to Institutional. The adjacent lands that are Agriculture also transition to Institutional and the General Business and Residential areas remain unchanged. 3.4.2 Noise Noise can be considered unwanted sound and sound is typically measured in decibels (dB). An average measure of sound is known as the day-night average sound level (Ldn), and is used by agencies for estimating sound impacts and establishing guidelines for compatible land uses. An EPA document, Information on Levels of Environmental Noise Requisite to Protect Public Health and Welfare with an Adequate Margin of Safety (EPA, 1974) provides a basis for State and local governments' judgments in setting standards. The document identifies a 24-hour exposure level of 70 dB as the level of environmental noise that will prevent any measurable hearing loss over a lifetime. Also, levels of 55 dB outdoors and 45 dB indoors are identified as preventing activity interference and annoyance. These levels are considered those which will permit spoken conversation and other activities such as sleeping, working and recreation. The levels are not single event, or "peak" levels, but rather, they represent averages over long periods of time. An occasional higher noise levels would be consistent with a 24-hour average of 70 dB, as long as a sufficient amount of relative quiet is experienced. The sound level of a typical sound outdoors falls off in level at 6 dB per doubling of distance. Assuming a typical siren is 115 dB at a distance of 10 feet, at 20' it will be 109 dB, at 40 feet it will be 103 dB, at 80 feet it will be 97 dB, at 160 feet it will be 91 dB, at 320 feet it will be 85 dB, at 640 feet it will be 79 dB, at 1,280 feet it will be 79 dB, and at 2,560 feet it will be 73 dB. The proposed project site on Water Tower Road is located adjacent to a residential area and the existing Poynette fire station is located within a commercial/residential neighborhood. Alternative 1 No Action–Under the No Action Alternative, no impacts related to noise would occur. Alternative 2 Remodel Existing Facility–Under Alternative 2, only temporary short-term increases in noise levels would be anticipated during construction. To reduce noise levels during that period, construction activities would be restricted to normal business hours. Equipment and machinery utilized at the site would meet all local, State, and Federal noise regulations. Over the long term, no significant change to noise levels would be anticipated. The site is currently used as the fire station, in a residential area on South Main Street. Because of the size the site and numerous constraints on expansion at the site, any remodeling and expansion of the facility would be limited. Therefore, no significant change to noise levels would be anticipated. Alternative 3 New Fire Station, Water Tower Road (Proposed Action)–Under the Proposed Action Alternative, temporary short-term increases in noise levels would be anticipated during construction. To reduce noise levels during that period, construction activities would be restricted to normal business hours. Equipment and machinery utilized at the site would meet all local, State, and Federal noise regulations. Over the long term, vehicle traffic would increase at the proposed project site, primarily when EMS personnel are training or responding to traffic accidents, fires, severe weather, or other emergency events. The increased traffic and sirens would increase the noise level, but these increases would be very short in duration and would occur very infrequently. It is anticipated that these noise peaks would not cause an exceedance of the EPA’s 24-hour exposure levels. 3.4.3 Public Services and Utilities Public services to both the proposed Water Tower Road site and the existing South Main Street site are provided by the Village of Poynette. These include police, fire, sewer, and water. Electric and natural gas service are provided by Alliant Energy. Alternative 1 No Action–Under the No Action Alternative, there would be no changes to public services or utilities, but no improvements would be made to the existing Poynette Fire Station. In the short term, fire and other EMS would continue to be provided adequately. In the long term, without a new or improved facility there would be a negative impact on the Poynette/Dekorra/Lowville Fire District. The space needs and other identified EOC needs would not be met. Alternative 2 Remodel Existing Facility–Under Alternative 2, there would be no changes to most public services and utilities, but improvements would be made to the existing Poynette Fire Station. In the short term, fire and EMS would continue to be provided adequately and some improvements would be realized. In the long term, without a new facility and adequate space and facilities, there would be a negative impact on the Poynette/Dekorra/Lowville Fire District. The space needs and many of the other identified EOC needs would not be met. Alternative 3 New Fire Station, Water Tower Road (Proposed Action)–Under the Proposed Action Alternative, there would be no changes to most public services and utilities, but significant improvements would be made to fire and other EMS facilities. In the short-term and long-term, benefits to the area communities would be realized as the identified space needs and other needs are met by the new EOC. 3.4.4 Environmental Justice (Executive Order 12898) EO 12898 (Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low- Income Populations) mandates that Federal agencies identify and address, as appropriate, disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects of their programs, policies, and activities on minority and low-income populations. Socioeconomic and demographic data for the project area were analyzed to determine if a disproportionate number of minority or low-income persons have the potential to be adversely affected by the proposed project. The U.S. Census Bureau data for Poynette, Wisconsin, states that 97.4% of the population is white, 0.2% African American, 0.5% American Indian or Alaska Native, 0.1% Asian, 0.7% some other race, and 1.1% two or more races (U.S. Census Bureau, 2000). No concentration of minority or low income populations were identified near the proposed project site. Alternative 1 No Action–Under the No Action Alternative, there would be no disproportionately high and adverse effects on minority or low-income populations. All populations could potentially be adversely affected by the lack of improvements to the Poynette fire station. Alternative 2 Remodel Existing Facility–Under this alternative, there would be no disproportionately high and adverse impacts on minority or low-income populations. Improvements to the existing facility would benefit all populations. Alternative 3 New Fire Station, Water Tower Road (Proposed Action)–Under the Proposed Action Alternative, there would be no disproportionately high and adverse impacts on minority or low-income populations. Implementation of the Proposed Action would benefit all populations within Poynette/Dekorra Fire Protection District. 3.4.5 Safety and Security To minimize risks to safety and human health, all construction activities would be performed using qualified personnel trained in the proper use of the appropriate equipment including all appropriate safety precautions. Additionally, all activities would be conducted in a safe manner in accordance with the standards specified in Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) regulations. EO 13045, Protection of Children, requires Federal agencies to make it a high priority to identify and assess environmental health and safety risks that may disproportionately affect children. Alternative 1 No Action–Under the No Action Alternative, there would be no construction and no direct impacts to safety of the population would occur. If an emergency event were to occur, area residents would continue to be served by the existing Poynette fire station. Alternative 2 Remodel Existing Facility–Under this alternative, improvements to the existing Poynette fire station would provide increased protection for area residents during emergency events. Construction activities would present safety risks to those performing the activities. Access to the site would be restricted to protect the public and to minimize risks to safety and human health. The appropriate signage and barriers would be in place prior to construction activities to alert pedestrians and motorists of project activities. There would be no disproportionate health and safety risks to children. Alternative 3 New Fire Station, Water Tower Road (Proposed Action)–Under the Proposed Action Alternative, construction of a new EOC for the Poynette/Dekorra Fire Protection District would provide increased protection for area residents during emergency events. Construction activities would present safety risks to those performing the activities. Access to the site would be restricted to protect the public and to minimize risks to safety and human health. The appropriate signage and barriers would be in place prior to construction activities to alert pedestrians and motorists of project activities. There would be no disproportionate health and safety risks to children. 3.5 HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES In addition to review under NEPA, consideration of effects to historic properties is mandated under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), as amended, and implemented by 36 CFR Part 800. Requirements include identification of significant historic properties that may be affected by the Proposed Action. Historic properties are defined as archaeological sites, standing structures, or other historic resources listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) (36 CFR 60.4). As defined in 36 CFR Part 800.16(d), the Area of Potential Effect (APE), “is the geographic area or areas within which an undertaking may directly or indirectly cause changes in the character or use of historic properties, if such properties exist.” In addition to identifying historic properties that may exist in the proposed project’s APE, FEMA must also determine, in consultation with the appropriate State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO)/Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO), what effect, if any, the action will have on historic properties. Moreover, if the project would have an adverse effect on these properties, FEMA must consult with SHPO/THPO on ways to avoid, minimize, or mitigate the adverse effect. During construction, ground disturbing activities would be monitored. Should human skeletal remains or historic or archaeological materials be discovered during construction, all ground-disturbing activities on the project site would cease and the coroner’s office (in the case of human remains), FEMA, and the Wisconsin Historical Society would be notified. Alternative 1 No Action–Under the No Action Alternative, there would be no construction and no impacts to historic or cultural resources. Alternative 2 Remodel Existing Facility–Because of the constraints at the existing Fire Station property, there is limited space available for remodeling and expansion. The building footprint and use of the property would not change significantly and under this alternative, improvements to the existing Poynette fire station would not impact any historic or cultural resources. Alternative 3 New Fire Station, Water Tower Road (Proposed Action)–Under the Proposed Action Alternative, construction of a new EOC has some potential to impact historic or cultural resources. Evaluation of the Proposed Action is described in Sections 3.5.1 and 3.5.2. 3.5.1 Historic Structures and Archaeological Resources On June 25, 2009, a letter and supporting documentation was submitted to the SHPO with a Request for SHPO Comment and Consultation on a Federal Undertaking. The request included documentation gathered by Strand Associates, Inc. on historic properties in the area of the proposed project site. On July 7, 2009 the SHPO signed the Request for SHPO Comment and Consultation on a Federal Undertaking form, providing concurrence with the determination that no historic properties will be affected by the proposed project (Appendix D). 3.5.2 Tribal Coordination and Religious Sites On November 6, 2000, President Clinton signed Executive Order (EO) 13175, titled Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments. The EO directs federal agencies, “to establish regular and meaningful consultation and collaboration with tribal officials in the development of Federal policies that have tribal implications, to strengthen the United States government-to- government relationships with Indian tribes, and to reduce the imposition of unfunded mandates upon Indian tribes…” Requests for evaluation of the presence or absence of known archaeological and Indian Religious sites within the proposed project areas were submitted on June 25, 2009, to recognized Tribes that may have an interest in projects located in Columbia County, Wisconsin. To date, no Tribes have commented on the proposed project. 3.6 COMPARISON OF ALTERNATIVES This section describes the potential impacts of the proposed alternatives and the No-Action Alternative. Where potential impacts exist, conditions or mitigation measures to offset these impacts are detailed in the body of the document. A summary table is provided below. Table 1: Impact and Mitigation Summary Affected Environment Impacts Mitigation Geology and Soils Alt 2: No impacts to geology, minimal, short-term impact to soils (where footprint of existing structure is expanded). Appropriate BMPs: silt fence, prompt planting of vegetation and landscaping to minimize runoff. Alt 3 (proposed): No impacts to geology, short-term impacts to soils during construction. Construction would disturb about 19,600 SY of the site. Water Quality (including surface water and Ground water) Alt 2: Short-term impacts to surface water are possible during construction (Rowan Creek borders the north and east sides of the site). No impact to ground water resources. Potable water is supplied to the site by the Village. A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) is required. A Stormwater Management and Erosion Control Plan and implementation of stormwater BMPs will minimize runoff. Alt 3 (proposed): Short-term impacts to surface water are possible during construction. No impact to ground water resources. Potable water is supplied to the site by the Village. Floodplains Alt 2: The site is bordered by Rowan Creek and the associated 100-year floodplain. Construction would need to be constrained at this site to minimize or avoid impacts to the floodplain.Alt 3 (proposed): No impacts anticipated. None. Air Quality Alts 2 and 3 (proposed): Short-term impacts from dust and emissions from equipment would occur during construction. Dust control measures such as watering down construction areas would be implemented as needed. Fuel-burning equipment run times could be minimized and equipment properly maintained. Terrestrial and Aquatic Environments Alt 2: No impacts are anticipated to the terrestrial environment. The site is bordered by Rowan Creek and associated wetlands and floodplain. Construction would need to be constrained at this site to minimize or avoid impacts to the creek, wetlands, and floodplain environments. Alt 3 (proposed): No impacts are anticipated to aquatic environments. Prior to construction of the structure, parking area, and stormwater detention basins, about 19,600 SY of existing vegetation and topsoil will be stripped from site, a farm field. Topsoil will be replaced in areas of the site and landscaping will include grasses, trees, bushes, and stormwater basins. This will restore some of the terrestrial environment and create a new aquatic environment. Waters of the U.S. Including Wetlands Alt 2: The site is bordered by Rowan Creek and associated wetlands and floodplain. Construction would need to be constrained at this site to minimize or avoid impacts to the creek, wetlands, and floodplain. Alt 3 (proposed): No impacts anticipated. None. Threatened and Endangered Species Alts 2 and 3 (proposed): No impacts are anticipated. None. Hazardous Materials Alts 2 and 3 (proposed): No impacts anticipated. No hazardous materials are anticipated at either location and no releases of contaminants to the environment have been reported at either site. Any hazardous substances generated, or used would be handled and disposed of in accordance with applicable local, State, and Federal regulations. Zoning, Land Use, and Transportation Alt 2: No impact to existing zoning and land use of the site. Short-term increase in the volume of construction-related traffic in the vicinity of the site. During construction, vehicles and equipment would be stored on-site to the extent possible. Traffic control and signage would be used as needed. Alt 3 (proposed), improvements will be made to Water Tower Road and the North Street/Water Tower Road intersection to accommodate EOC vehicles. Alt 3 (proposed): No impact to existing zoning and land use of the site. The proposed use of the site is consistent with Village zoning and planned land use for the area. Short-term increase in the volume of construction-related traffic in the vicinity of the site. Also, a permanent increase in EOC-related traffic on North Street and Water Tower Road. Noise Alts 2 and 3 (proposed): Short-term impacts from heavy equipment would occur during construction. Long-term impacts for Alt 3 would include increased traffic and siren noise from EMS vehicles. Construction would be limited to normal business hours and equipment would meet local, State, and Federal noise regulations. The infrequent and short duration noise impacts from EMS vehicles would not cause 24-hr exposure levels to be exceeded. Public Services and Utilities Alt 2: No impacts to utilities are anticipated. Potential disruption or delay of emergency response services during remodeling and construction activities at the facility. Thorough planning and staging of construction activities would be required to prevent any disruption or delay to emergency response services. Alt 3 (proposed): No impacts to utilities are anticipated. Potential disruption or delay of emergency response services during the transition from the existing facility to the new facility. Thorough planning and staging of the transition of equipment and personnel from the existing facility to the new facility would be required to prevent any disruption or delay to emergency response services. Environmental Justice Alts 2 and 3 (proposed): No disproportionately high or adverse effect on minority or low-income populations is anticipated. None. Public Health and Safety Alts 2 and 3 (proposed): Long-term improvements to public safety would result from improved EMS facilities. No adverse impacts anticipated. None. Historic and Cultural Resources Alts 2 and 3 (proposed): No impacts anticipated. None. During construction, ground disturbing activities would be monitored. Should human skeletal remains or historic or archaeological materials be discovered during construction, all ground-disturbing activities on the project site would cease and the coroner’s office (in the case of human remains), FEMA, and the Wisconsin Historical Society would be notified. SECTION FOUR: CUMULATIVE IMPACTS According to CEQ regulations, cumulative impacts represent the “impact on the environment which results from the incremental impact of the action when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions, regardless of what agency (Federal or non-Federal) or person undertakes such other actions. Cumulative impacts can result from individually minor but collectively significant actions taking place over a period of time (40 CFR 1508.7).” In accordance with NEPA and to the extent reasonable and practical, this EA considered the combined effect of the Proposed Action Alternative and other actions occurring or proposed in the vicinity of the proposed project site. No proposed or occurring actions by others were identified in the vicinity of the proposed project site; therefore, no cumulative impacts are anticipated. SECTION FIVE: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION FEMA is the lead Federal agency for conducting the NEPA compliance process for the Poynette/Dekorra Fire Protection District EOC in the Village of Poynette, Columbia County, Wisconsin. It is the goal of the lead agency to expedite the preparation and review of NEPA documents and to be responsive to the needs of the community and the purpose and need of the proposed action while meeting the intent of NEPA and complying with all NEPA provisions. Interagency reviews have been conducted in the form of agency consultation letters and the responses received from the agencies. Agencies consulted are listed in Section 6. Agency responses are provided in Appendix D. The proposed project has been discussed at numerous Poynette-Dekorra Fire Protection District Board Meetings that are open to the public. In addition, the project has been presented in public forums at Village of Poynette Board, Plan Commission, and Town of Dekorra Town Hall meetings. The Poynette/Dekorra Fire Protection District will notify the public of the availability of the draft EA through publication of a public notice (see Appendix F) in a local newspaper. FEMA will conduct a public comment period commencing on the initial date of publication of the public notice. SECTION SIX: AGENCY COORDINATION AND PERMITS The following agencies and organizations were consulted or were contacted to request project review during the preparation of this EA. Responses received to date are included in Appendix D. 1. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Science Services 2. Wisconsin Historical Society, Office of Preservation Planning 3. Village of Poynette 4. Village Engineer, Jerry Foellmi, General Engineering Company 5. Wisconsin Historical Society, State Historic Preservation Office 6. Poynette Historical Society 7. Native America Tribes In accordance with applicable local, State, and Federal regulations, the applicant would be responsible for acquiring any necessary permits prior to commencing construction at the proposed project site. The following permits and approvals may be required prior to construction: 1. Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (WPDES)/SWPPP (WDNR) 2. Building Permit (Village of Poynette) 3. Driveway Construction Permit (Village of Poynette) 4. Erosion Control and Stormwater Management Permit (WDNR and Columbia County) 5. Sanitary District Permit (District) SECTION SEVEN: REFERENCES FEMA. 1996. National Environmental Policy Act, FEMA Desk Reference. May 14, 1996. Martin, Lawrence. 1965. The Physical Geography of Wisconsin. University of Wisconsin Press. Madison, WI. U.S. Census Bureau. 2000a. Wisconsin–Place and County Subdivision. http://factfinder.census.gov/servlet/GCTTable?_bm=y&-context=gct&- ds_name=DEC_2000_SF1_U&-mt_name=DEC_2000_SF1_U_GCTPH1_ST7&- CONTEXT=gct&-tree_id=4001&-geo_id=04000US55&-format=ST-7%7CST-7S&- _lang=en. Accessed July 2009. U.S. Census Bureau. 2000b. American Fact Finder. http://factfinder.census.gov. Accessed July 2009. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2009. http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov. Accessed June 2009. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2009. http://www.fws.gov/midwest/endangered/section7/sppranges/wisc-cty.html. Accessed June 2009. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 2009. Air Quality. From http://www.epa.gov/air/oaqps/greenbk/ancl.html#WISCONSIN. Accessed July 2009. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 2009. Envirofacts Data Warehouse. From http://oaspub.epa.gov/enviro/ef_home3.html?p_zipcode=COLUMBIA%2C+WI&p_type=county&x=8&y=3. Accessed June 2009. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 1974. Information on Levels of Environmental Noise Requisite to Protect Public Health and Welfare with an Adequate Margin of Safety. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Surface Water Data Viewer (WDNR SWDV). 2009. http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/water/data_viewer.htm. Accessed June 2009. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Contaminated Lands Environmental Action Network (WDNR CLEAN). 2009. http://dnr.wi.gov/org/aw/rr/clean.htm. Accessed June 2009. SECTION EIGHT: LIST OF PREPARERS Preparation and quality control review of Draft and Final EA: Luke T. Hellermann, P.G., Strand Associates, Inc. J. Eric Urtes, A.I.A., Strand Associates, Inc. Amanda C. Ratliff, Regional Environmental Officer, FEMA RV