Cheatham County Generation Site EIS Scoping Report
Appendix C Summary of Scoping Comments
Tennessee Valley Authority
Bats in Cheatham County, TN remain in recovery from white nose fungus Bats in Cheatham County, Tennessee are in recovery from white-nose syndrome (WNS). White-nose syndrome is a fungal disease that has had devastating effects on bat populations across North America, causing significant declines in numbers. White-nose syndrome is caused by the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans, which grows on the skin of hibernating bats, particularly affecting their wings and muzzles. The disease disrupts their hibernation patterns, causing them to burn energy rapidly and deplete fat reserves, leading to weakened immune systems and death. Efforts to combat WNS and aid in the recovery of bat populations have been ongoing. Some of the measures taken include: Research and Monitoring, Cave and Mine Management, Education and Public Awareness, Conservation and Protection Efforts. Scientists and researchers have been studying the disease to better understand its impact and transmission mechanisms. They monitor bat populations to track the spread of the disease and assess the effectiveness of management efforts. Many caves and mines where bats hibernate have been closed or restricted to human access to minimize the spread of the fungus. This helps protect uninfected bat populations and limit disturbance during critical hibernation periods. Raising public awareness about white-nose syndrome has been crucial in preventing the unintentional spread of the fungus. Educational campaigns emphasize the importance of avoiding cave visits during the hibernation season and following decontamination protocols if visiting caves in unaffected areas. Efforts to protect bat populations include establishing conservation areas, creating bat- friendly habitats, and implementing measures to reduce disturbances and protect roosting sites. These actions provide bats with safe spaces for breeding, foraging, and hibernation. While the bat populations in Cheatham County, Tennessee are in recovery, it's important to remain vigilant and continue conservation efforts. White-nose syndrome remains a significant threat to bats in many regions, and ongoing monitoring and research are necessary to ensure the long-term survival and recovery of bat populations. The importance of bats in Middle Tennessee Bats play a crucial role in Middle Tennessee ecosystems, and their importance extends beyond the region to global ecological balance. Bats are voracious insect eaters, and many species consume large quantities of agricultural and forest pests, including mosquitoes, moths, beetles, and agricultural crop pests. Their insect-feeding behavior helps regulate pest populations naturally, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and benefiting local farmers and gardeners. Some bat species are important pollinators for a variety of plants, including fruit trees, cacti, and night-blooming flowers. As bats feed on nectar and fruit, they inadvertently transfer pollen from one flower to another, facilitating plant reproduction and contributing to the diversity of plant species in Middle Tennessee. Bats play a crucial role in dispersing seeds of various plants. They consume fruits and disperse seeds in their droppings as they fly, helping to regenerate forests and spread plant diversity. This process aids in forest succession and contributes to the health and resilience of Middle Tennessee's ecosystems. Bats occupy various ecological niches and are part of a complex food web. They are prey for predators such as owls and hawks, contributing to the balance and diversity of predator-prey relationships. Their presence helps maintain healthy ecosystems and promotes overall biodiversity. Middle Tennessee is home to numerous caves, which provide important roosting and hibernation sites for bats. Bats play a vital role in cave ecosystems by contributing nutrients through their guano (droppings), which supports unique cave-dwelling organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and invertebrates. Bats serve as subjects of scientific research, providing valuable insights into areas such as ecology, conservation, and disease dynamics. Studying bats helps us better understand their behavior, biology, and ecological importance. They also serve as educational ambassadors, raising awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation and the ecological role of bats. Bats have cultural significance and inspire fascination and awe. They are featured in folklore, literature, and art, adding to the richness of human culture. Their nocturnal presence and acrobatic flight patterns also contribute to the aesthetic value of Middle Tennessee's natural landscapes. Recognizing the importance of bats in Middle Tennessee is essential for their conservation and the maintenance of healthy ecosystems. Conservation efforts, including protecting roosting sites, educating the public, and promoting bat-friendly practices, can help ensure the continued presence and well-being of these beneficial and fascinating creatures in the region. The Effects of a Methane Plant on Bat Populations in Cheatham County, TN The construction and operation of a methane gas plant can potentially have grave impacts on bat populations in Cheatham County, Tennessee. Clearing land for construction can result in habitat loss and fragmentation, potentially disrupting bat roosting sites and foraging areas. This loss of suitable habitat can lead to a decline in local bat populations. Methane gas plants can generate noise and light pollution, especially during construction and operation. Bats are highly sensitive to disturbances and known to be negatively affected by excessive noise and artificial lighting. These disturbances can disrupt their feeding patterns, roosting behavior, and migration routes, potentially impacting their survival and reproductive success. Methane gas plants can release air pollutants during their operation, including nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds. Poor air quality can affect the health of bat populations, particularly those roosting near the plant. Bats rely on clean air for their respiratory system and any pollution can have detrimental effects on their overall well- being. Bats are primarily insectivorous, and their populations depend on the availability of an abundant insect food supply. Methane gas plants may emit air pollutants that can harm or reduce insect populations in the surrounding area. If the local bat food sources are negatively affected, it can lead to food scarcity and potential declines in bat populations. To better understand the potential effects on bat populations, conducting thorough environmental impact assessments are essential to identify negative impacts and ensure the conservation of bat species in the area. The effects of a methane plant on honeybees The construction and operation of a methane gas plant can potentially have both direct and indirect effects on honeybees and their populations, regardless of the unusable “13 acres” (of the 286 acres) the TVA “set aside” for pollinators. Clearing land for construction can result in habitat loss and fragmentation, potentially affecting the availability of floral resources and nesting sites for honeybees. Methane gas plants release air pollutants during their operation, including nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds. Poor air quality can affect the health and well-being of honeybees, potentially compromising their immune systems and overall fitness. Methane gas plants might require the use of herbicides, insecticides, or other chemical substances in their vicinity for maintenance purposes. If these chemicals are applied in ways that are harmful to bees or their foraging habitats, honeybees may be exposed to toxic substances that can impact their health and colony survival. Construction and operation activities associated with methane gas plants can generate noise, vibrations, and increased human activity. Honeybees are highly sensitive to disturbances and can be negatively affected by these stressors. Increased stress levels may impact foraging behavior, communication within the hive, and overall colony health. The planned methane gas plant is located near agricultural fields and natural habitats rich in floral resources, thus there is a potential risk of contamination. Emissions from the plant, such as airborne pollutants or deposition of particulate matter, could potentially contaminate nectar and pollen sources. Bees collecting contaminated resources may experience negative health effects and/or transmit contaminants to the hive. The construction and presence of a methane gas plant can alter the landscape and land use patterns in the vicinity. This disruption can affect the availability and diversity of floral resources for honeybees. Changes in foraging patterns and reduced access to nutritious food sources can impact the health and productivity of honeybee colonies. Methane gas plants and nearby property values This area of Cheatham County is a highly desirable area to live in. The peace and tranquility of our natural resources are coveted. Properties located very close to the methane gas plant may experience a more significant impact on their value compared to those located farther away. The visibility of the plant and its associated infrastructure from neighboring properties can also influence buyer perceptions and affect property values. The presence of a methane gas plant near residential areas can raise concerns about potential risks, such as safety hazards, air pollution, or environmental impacts. Negative perceptions or fears about these risks may lead to decreased demand for properties in the vicinity, potentially impacting property values. Methane gas plants can generate noise and have visual impacts due to their infrastructure and associated activities. If these factors are noticeable and intrusive to neighboring properties, they can negatively affect property values. Consulting with local real estate professionals or appraisers familiar with the specific area can provide more accurate insights into the potential impact on property values.
Comments and questions for the Tennessee Valley Authority’s Scoping Notice Regarding Cheatham County Generation Site_000007
7/7/2023
negative
Tracy A.
O'Neill
37015
Comments and questions for the Tennessee Valley Authority’s Scoping Notice Regarding Cheatham County Generation Site_000008
7/7/2023
negative
Tracy A.
O'Neill
37015
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