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MWMC FACILITIES PLAN construction-related impacts to biological resources and permanent habitat alteration in the vicinity of the WPCF outfall. However, no direct wildlife mortality is anticipated from implementing WPCF upgrades. Construction Period Temporary (Construction-Related) Impacts Wetland h~,bitat in the vicinity of the WPCF is found along the Willamette River (see Figure 2.2.7-3). Wetlands in the Eugene area support a variety of wildlife and plant species, including at least eight species designated as Endangered, Threatened, Sensitive, or Species of Concern (see Table 2.2.7-2). Riparian habitat along the Willamette River also supports a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and plants. Temporary disturbance of a limited area of riverbank is expected as a result of construction of a third outfall at the WPCF. Disturbance resulting from movement of construction equipment, excavation, and installation of the outfall would be limited to the direct area of construction activity. Sediment and erosion would be prevented by following construction BMPs and sediment and erosion control practices. In-stream or riverbank impacts to wildlife or habitat in the vicinity of the WPCF would be minimal. Project construction activities at the WPCF will generate noise and dust. Most species potentially using habitat near the WPCF for feeding, roosting, breeding, and migration (e.g., birds such as bald eagles, great blue herons, red-winged blackbirds, and warblers, and mammals such as bats, raccoons, and fox) likely would avoid the area immediately surrounding the WPCF during periods of construction activity. Therefore, impacts on wildlife from noise and dust during construction would be minimal. Operational Period Biological Impacts Compared to System Alternative 1, it is anticipated that System Alternative 5 would result in a net beneficial impact to biological resources in the vicinity of the WPCF. Relative to the no action alternative, Parallel Primary/Secondary Treatment would reduce the potential for discharge of untreated sewage into the Willamette River and ensure achievement of NPDES permit effluent limitations. Thus, the potential for adverse affects to wildlife, fish, and habitat resulting from reduced water quality would be lower under System Alternative 5. Habitat Alteration Habitat alteration in the vicinity of the WPCF could result from changes in water quality or habitat character, or from habitat loss. As noted in section 9.4.2, water discharged from the WPCF will meet NPDES permit requirements for TSS and CBODs, and water in the Willamette River will experience minimal project-related erosion and sedimentation. For these reasons, impacts to habitat or wildlife in the area as a result of impaired water quality are not anticipated. · No permanent habitat loss or alteration is expected to result from System Alternative 5, with the exception of potential permanent streambank or wetland habitat losses associated with installation of the third ouffall. 9-12 MWMC_9.0_REV14.DOC