Cover ImageDuke Power
Final Shoreline Management
Plan Update for the
Catawba-Wateree Hydro Project

(FERC No. 2232)

Appendix B


Submitted by:

Duke Power, A Division of
Duke Energy Corporation

Group Environment
Health & Safety
Lake Management

July 30, 2001

Prepared by:
The Louis Berger Group, Inc.
Needham, MA

Table of Contents
Introduction
Project Area Description
Purpose and Content of the Study
Methodology
Data Collection
Mail Surveys and Interviews
Traffic Counts, Spot Counts, and Tailrace Counts
Flyovers
Existing Recreation Areas and Facilities
Data Analysis
Recreation Use Assessment
Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment
Recreation Demand Assessment
Limitations
Consultation
Summary of Recreation Resources
Summary of Regional Recreation Resources
Catawba-Wateree Key Characteristics
Catawba-Wateree Project Area Recreation Areas
Catawba-Wateree Project Area Recreation Use Assessment
General Recreation User Characteristics
Recreation Use
Boating Use
Project Area Recreation Resources
Lake James
Lake James Existing Recreation Areas
Lake James Recreation Use Assessment
Lake James Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment
Lake James Survey Respondent Comments
Lake Rhodhiss
Lake Rhodhiss Existing Recreation Areas
Lake Rhodhiss Recreation Use Assessment
Lake Rhodhiss Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment
Lake Rhodhiss Survey Respondent Comments
Lake Hickory
Lake Hickory Existing Recreation Areas
Lake Hickory Recreation Use Assessment
Lake Hickory Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment
Lake Hickory Survey Respondent Comments
Lookout Shoals Lake
Lookout Shoals Lake Existing Recreation Areas
Lookout Shoals Lake Recreation Use Assessment
Lookout Shoals Lake Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment
Lookout Shoals Lake Survey Respondent Comments
Lake Norman
Lake Norman Existing Recreation Areas
Lake Norman Recreation Use Assessment
Lake Norman Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment
Lake Norman Survey Respondent Comments
Mountain Island Lake
Mountain Island Lake Existing Recreation Areas
Mountain Island Lake Recreation Use Assessment
Mountain Island Lake Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment
Mountain Island Lake Survey Respondent Comments
Lake Wylie
Lake Wylie Existing Recreation Areas
Lake Wylie Recreation Use Assessment
Lake Wylie Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment
Lake Wylie Survey Respondent Comments
Fishing Creek Lake
Fishing Creek Lake Existing Recreation Areas
Fishing Creek Lake Recreation Use Assessment
Fishing Creek Lake Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment
Fishing Creek Lake Survey Respondent Comments
Great Falls and Rocky Creek Lakes
Great Falls and Rocky Creek Lakes Existing Recreation Areas
Great Falls and Rocky Creek Lakes Recreation Use
Assessment
Great Falls and Rocky Creek Lakes Boat Carrying
Capacity Assessment
Great Falls and Rocky Creek Lakes Survey Respondent Commentsss
Lake Wateree
Lake Wateree Existing Recreation Areas
Lake Wateree Recreation Use Assessment
Lake Wateree Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment
Lake Wateree Survey Respondent Comments
4.7 Lake Wylie

Lake Wylie, the third largest reservoir in the Catawba-Wateree system, is located southwest of Charlotte in Gaston and Mecklenburg Counties, North Carolina and York County, South Carolina. Lake Wylie has a surface area of about 13,433 acres and 314.7 shoreline miles at full pond elevation of 569.4 feet msl. Table 4.7-1 summarizes the shoreline classification, based on the SMP maps.

Table 4.7-1.

Shoreline Classification for Lake Wylie


Shoreline Classification

Shoreline Miles

Percent of Total

Commercial /Non-Residential

7.2

2.0%

Commercial /Residential

1.9

1.0%

Residential

129.1

41.0%

Business Industrial

3.6

1.0%

Public Recreation

3.4

1.0%

Public Infrastructure

16.2

5.0%

Project Operations

1.5

0.0%

Future Commercial/Non-Residential

10.8

3.0%

Future Commercial/Residential

23.0

7.0%

Future Residential

14.9

5.0%

Future Public Recreation

9.9

3.0%

Impact Minimization Zones

9.3

3.0%

Environmental Area

61.7

20.0%

Natural Area

22.2

7.0%

Total

314.8

100.0%


4.7.1 Lake Wylie Existing Recreation Areas

There are nine developed Duke Power owned public recreation access locations, with three leased to agencies, on Lake Wylie. There are several developed county and city parks including: McDowell Nature Preserve, owned and operated by Mecklenburg County; River Street Park, owned and operated by the City of Mount Holly; Wind Jammer Beach and Pitcarin Parks, owned by the City of Tega Cay; and the Stowe Botanical Garden. There are three undeveloped county parks owned by Mecklenburg County. Figure 4.7-shows the public recreation access locations. In addition, there are 11 commercial non-residential and no commercial residential marinas that provide additional public access on Lake Wylie.

The Copperhead Access Area is operated as part of McDowell County Nature Preserve that is owned by Mecklenburg County. Ebenezer Access Area is operated by York County as a county park. The City of Rock Hill has the Indian Ground Access Area leased for fishing use by special populations. A recent major addition to public recreation on Lake Wylie was the creation of Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden on the South Fork arm of the lake. This facility consists of 450 acres of land that has the gardens being developed over a 20-year period.

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Figure 4.7-1

Lake Wylie Public Recreation Access Areas

Figure 4.7-1

Existing Duke-Owned Public Access Areas

The developed Duke-owned public access areas provide about 333 acres and about 27,803 feet of shoreline frontage of public access at Lake Wylie. Combined, the developed access areas have 24 public boat ramps, 12 loading piers, 4 fishing piers and about 568 parking spaces for vehicles/trailers and 305 parking spaces for cars. Table 4.7-2 summarizes the facilities at the public access areas.

In the 1994 SMP, Duke Power proposed to improve the Allen Fishing area (provide handicapped accessibility), Buster Boyd access area (replace the two 2-lane ramps with 6 new boat ramps and replace the pier with 3 new piers) and Nivens Creek access area (expand and pave the parking lot). In addition, Duke Power said it would add 36 acres to the South Point site (54 acres added), add 98 acres to the Allison Creek access area (59 added), add 25 acres to the Fort Mill site (40 acres added) and add 8 acres to the Nivens Creek site (13 acres added). All of the recreation commitments from the 1994 SMP have been met except for two ramps and one pier at Buster Boyd (because there was insufficient parking) and the expansion and paving of Nivens Creek (because of building code problems).

Table 4.7-2. 

Lake Wylie Duke-Owned Public Access Areas


Access Area Name

Acreage

Shoreline Frontage (ft)

Boat Ramps

Loading Piers

Fishing Piers

Car
Parking
(Spaces)

V/T
Parking
(Spaces)

Allen Fish Area

21.0

1,919

 

0

0

29

0

South Point

70.0

6,747

6

3

0

0

165

Copperhead

25.3

3,225

4

3

2

25

72

Buster Boyd

4.4

632

4

2

0

51

119

Allison Creek

113.0

8,653

4

2

1

15

90

Indian Ground

9.8

2,340

0

0

1

25

0

Nivens Creek

23.2

871

2

1

0

0

32

Ebenezer

20.8

1,374

3

1

0

160

70

Fort Mill

45.5

 2,042

1

0

0

0

20

Total

333.0

 27,803

24

12

4

305

568

County and City Public Recreation Facilities

Table 4.7-3 summarizes the site acreage, shoreline footage and recreational facilities provided at the County Recreational Facilities. There are a total of 3 County facilities and 3 City Parks.

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is a family oriented, educational facility comprised of prime rolling meadows, woodlands, and lakefront property. It began in 1989 when retired Belmont textile executive, Daniel Jonathan Stowe, set aside 450 acres for the development of a world class botanical garden.

In October 1999, the Garden proudly opened a new 110-acre facility that includes four themed gardens, a 13,500 square foot Visitor Pavilion, fountains, entrance ponds, expanded Gift and Garden Shop, and half-mile Woodland Trail. The new gardens are a part of a Master Plan designed by landscape architect Geoffrey Rausch that will evolve over several decades. The completed Botanical Garden will include a conservatory complex, rose pavilion, Asian and English gardens, natural wetland, children's garden, restaurant, outdoor amphitheater, and lakefront access.

Approximately three miles of the Garden lies along the eastern shoreline of the Catawba Creek arm of Lake Wylie. The planned watercraft entrance will enable visitors to rent a slip where they can park their boat for a certain number of hours per day. This will be the water terminus of the garden's tram route. Visitors will be able to ride the length of site, or they may disembark from the tram at exit points in between.

When fully completed the Garden will represent an investment of $150-$200 million, employ over 300 people and entertain one million visitors a year, adding more than $36 million to the regional economy.

Table 4.7-3. 

Summary of County Recreational Facilities


McDowell County Park

Copperhead Island

Ebenezer Park

952 Acres

25 Acres

26 Acres

5500 Feet of shoreline

3225 Feet of shoreline

1374 Feet of Shoreline

1 Amphitheater

4 Boat ramps

3 Boat ramps

80 Campsites

3 Floating loading piers

1 Floating loading pier with 4 slips

2 Concession Areas

72 Paved trailer parking spaces

70 Paved trailer parking spaces

1 Gazebo

25 Paved vehicle parking spaces

160 Paved vehicle parking spaces

1 Information Booth

1 Volleyball Court

17 Picnic tables

1 Maintenance Facility

1 Picnic Shelter

5 Picnic shelters with 13 tables

1 Nature Center

2 Restroom facilities

2 Restroom facilities

1 Office Complex

2 Fishing piers (1 handicapped accessible)

1 Swimming area

1 Police boathouse

14 Tent campsites

1 Bathhouse with concessions/change room

1 Paddleboat Rental Area

6 Overlooks

1 Rangers residence

210 Paved Parking Spaces

5 Miles of trail

1 Maintenance facility

37 Picnic Sites

1200 Feet of boardwalk for fishing

1 Entrance station

1 Playground

1 Entrance station

 

1 Ranger Residence

   

14 Restroom Units

   

1 Picnic Shelter

   

6 Miles of Nature Trail

   

The three city parks, River Street Park, Wind Jammer Beach Park and Pitcarin Cove Park, are located on Lake Wylie. Table 4.7-4 summarizes the key characteristics of these facilities.

Table 4.7-4.

Summary of City Public Recreation Facilities


River Street Park

Wind Jammer Beach Park

Pitcarin Cove Park

2 boardwalks

7 picnic tables

6 picnic tables

Nine park benches

1 sandy beach

1 boat ramp

Three grills

1 picnic shelter

1 picnic shelter

Playground

2 restrooms

2 restrooms

Covered picnic area

1 playground

1 playground

Two picnic tables

Paved and gravel parking lot for 25 cars

Paved parking lot for 15 cars

Existing Commercial and Private Recreation Access

In addition to the Duke-owned public access areas and the state, county and city parks, the public can gain access to Lake Wylie through commercial non-residential and commercial residential marinas. Private access to Lake Wylie is through private marinas and private piers along the Lake Wylie shoreline. Table 4.7-5 summarizes the number and type of public and private commercial non-residential and commercial residential marina facilities. Table 4.7-6 summarizes the estimated number of private piers.

Table 4.7-5. 

Summary of Lake Wylie Commercial Recreational Access Facilities


Type of Facility

Commercial
Non-Residential

Commercial Residential

Public Marinas

11

0

Private Marinas

11

15

Wet Slips

1,026

573

Dry Slips

400

0


Table 4.7-6. 

Summary of Lake Wylie Private Recreational Access Facilities


Type of Facility

No. Private Facilities

Piers

3,108

Site Specific Descriptions of Existing Duke-owned Public Access Areas at Lake Wylie

The following section provides a description of each Duke-owned public access area at Lkae Wylie, including a photograph, site characterisitics, site recreation facilities, and key recreation activities.

Allen Fishing Area

Figure 4.7-2

Figure 4.7-2.

Allen Fishing Area

The Allen Fishing Area is located in the upper portion of Lake Wylie near the Allen Steam Station in Gaston County, North Carolina. Table 4.7-7 summarizes key site characteristics for the Allen Fishing Area.

Table 4.7-7. 

Summary of Allen Fishing Area Site Characteristics


Site Name

Allen Fishing Area

Location

Road 2798, Gaston County, NC

Site Acreage

21acres

Site Facilities

Lighting

Parking

29 paved car parking spaces

ADA Facilities

None

Key Recreation Activities

Bank fishing

Recreation Access Fees

None

Key Views

South Fork arm of lake

Topography

Flat slope

Vegetation

Mixed conifers and hardwoods

Shoreline Footage

1,919 feet

Ownership/Lease

Duke Power/NCWRC

South Point Access Area

Figure 4.7-3

Figure 4.7-3.

South Point Access Area

The South Point access area is located in the upper portion of Lake Wylie in Gaston County, North Carolina, just north of the South Carolina state line. Table 4.7-8 summarizes key site characteristics for the South Point access area

Table 4.7-8. 

Summary of South Point Access Area Site Characteristics


Site Name

South Point

Location

South Point Road, Gaston County, NC

Site Acreage

70 acres

Site Facilities

6 boat ramps, 3 loading piers, lighting

Parking

165 paved vehicle/trailer parking spaces

ADA Facilities

None

Key Recreation Activities

Boating, boat and bank fishing

Recreation Access Fees

None

Key Views

Main lake

Topography

Moderate/flat slope

Vegetation

Predominantly wooded, mixed hardwoods and conifers

Shoreline Footage

6,747 feet

Ownership/Lease

Duke Power/ NCWRC

Copperhead Access Area

Figure 4.7-4

Figure 4.7-4.

Copperhead Access Area

The Copperhead access area is located in the middle portion of Lake Wylie on the eastern shoreline, near McDowell Park in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. Table 4.7-9 summarizes key site characteristics for the Copperhead access area. This site is leased to Mecklenburg County.

Table 4.7-9.

Summary of Copperhead Access Area Site Characteristics


Site Name

Copperhead

Location

Road 1333,Mecklenburg County, NC

Site Acreage

25.3 acres

Site Facilities

4 boat ramps, 3 loading piers, 2 fishing piers, 1 volleyball court, 1 picnic shelter, 2 restroom facilities, 14 tent campsites, 6 overlooks, 5 miles of trails, 1,200 feet of boardwalk for fishing, 1 entrance station

Parking

72 paved vehicle/trailer parking spaces, 25 paved car parking spaces

ADA Facilities

Fishing pier

Key Recreation Activities

Boating, fishing, camping, picnicking

Recreation Access Fees

Yes/Mecklenburg County

Key Views

Main lake

Topography

Moderate slope

Vegetation

Mixed conifers and hardwoods

Shoreline Footage

3,225 feet

Ownership/Lease

Duke Power/Mecklenburg County

Buster Boyd Access Area

Figure 4.7-5

Figure 4.7-5.

Buster Boyd Access Area

The Buster Boyd access area is located in the middle portion of Lake Wylie in York County, South Carolina near McDowell Park in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. Table 4.7-10 summarizes key site characteristics for the Buster Boyd access area.

Table 4.7-10.

Summary of Buster Boyd Access Area Site Characteristics


Site Name

Buster Boyd

Location

Highway 49, York County, NC

Site Acreage

4.4 acres

Site Facilities

4 boat ramps, 2 loading piers, lighting

Parking

119 vehicle/trailer and 51 car paved parking spaces

ADA Facilities

Loading piers

Key Recreation Activities

Boating, fishing

Recreation Access Fees

None

Key Views

Main lake

Topography

Flat slope

Vegetation

Open grass areas

Shoreline Footage

632 feet

Ownership/Lease

Duke Power/SCDNR

Allison Creek Access Area

Figure 4.7-6

Figure 4.7-6.

Allison Creek Access Area

The Allison Creek access area is located in the lower portion of Lake Wylie in York County, South Carolina. Table 4.7-11 summarizes key site characteristics for the Allison Creek access area.

Table 4.7-11. 

Summary of Allison Creek Area Site Characteristics


Site Name

Allison Creek

Location

Viesta Road, York County, SC

Site Acreage

113 acres

Site Facilities

4 boat ramps, 2 loading piers, 1 fishing pier, lighting

Parking

90 paved vehicle/trailer and 15 car paved parking spaces

ADA Facilities

Fishing pier, loading piers

Key Recreation Activities

Boating, bank and pier fishing

Recreation Access Fees

None

Key Views

From fishing pier and boat ramp areas

Topography

Moderate to steep slope

Vegetation

Mixed conifers and hardwoods

Shoreline Footage

8,653 feet

Ownership/Lease

Duke Power/SCDNR

Indian Ground Access Area

Figure 4.7-7

Figure 4.7-7.

Indian Ground Access Area

The Indian Ground access area is located in the lower portion of Lake Wylie, in York County, South Carolina. Table 4.7-12 summarizes key site characteristics for the Indian Ground access area. The site is leased to the City of Rock Hill and is only open when they take groups to the site.

Table 4.7-12.

Summary of Indian Ground Access Area Site Characteristics


Site Name

Indian Ground

Location

Concord Road, York County, SC

Site Acreage

9.8 acres

Site Facilities

1 fishing pier

Parking

25 paved car parking spaces

ADA Facilities

Fishing platform

Key Recreation Activities

Bank and pier fishing

Recreation Access Fees

None

Key Views

From fishing platform

Topography

Moderate slope

Vegetation

Mixed conifers and hardwoods

Shoreline Footage

2,340 feet

Ownership/Lease

Duke Power/City of Rock Hill

Nivens Creek Access Area

Figure 4.7-8

Figure 4.7-8.

Nivens Creek Access Area

The Nivens Creek access area is located in the lower portion of Lake Wylie along the eastern shoreline near Tega Cay, South Carolina. Table 4.7-13 summarizes key site characteristics for the Nivens Creek access area.

Table 4.5-13.

Summary of Nivens Creek Access Area Site Characteristics


Site Name

Nivens Creek

Location

Road 99, York County, SC

Site Acreage

23.2 acres

Site Facilities

2 boat ramps, 1loading pier, lighting

Parking

32 paved vehicle/trailer parking spaces

ADA Facilities

None

Key Recreation Activities

Boating, boat and bank fishing

Recreation Access Fees

None

Key Views

Small cove from launch area

Topography

Flat to moderate slope

Vegetation

Mixed conifers and hardwoods

Shoreline Footage

871 feet

Ownership/Lease

Duke Power/SCDNR

Ebenezer Access Area

Figure 4.7-9

Figure 4.7-9.

Ebenezer Access Area

The Ebenezer access area is located in the lower portion of Lake Wylie in York County, South Carolina. Table 4.7-14 summarizes key site characteristics for the Ebenezer access area. The Ebenezer access area is leased to York County.

Table 4.5-14.

Summary of Ebenezer Access Area Site Characteristics


Site Name

Ebenezer

Location

Road 195 Spur, York County, SC

Site Acreage

20.8 acres

Site Facilities

3 boat ramps, 1 loading pier, lighting, 17 picnic tables, 5 picnic shelters with 13 tables, 2 restroom facilities, 69 campsites with hookups, 1 swimming area, 1 bathhouse with concessions/change room, 1 rangers residence, 1 maintenance facility, 1 entrance station

Parking

70 vehicle/trailer and 160 car paved parking spaces

ADA Facilities

Restrooms, picnic area, campsites

Key Recreation Activities

Boating, fishing, camping, picnicking, swimming

Recreation Access Fees

Yes/York County

Key Views

Main lake

Topography

Flat slope

Vegetation

Mixed conifers and hardwoods

Shoreline Footage

1,374 feet

Ownership/Lease

Duke Power/York County/SCDNR

Fort Mill Access Area

Figure 4.7-10

Figure 4.7-10.

Fort Mill Access Area

The Fort Mill access area is located directly downstream of the Wylie dam in York County, South Carolina. Table 4.7-15 summarizes key site characteristics for the Fort Mill access area.

Table 4.7-15.

Summary of Fort Mill Access Area Site Characteristics


Site Name

Fort Mill

Location

Road 251, York County, SC

Site Acreage

45.5 acres

Site Facilities

1 boat ramp

Parking

20 vehicle/trailer gravel parking spaces

ADA Facilities

None

Key Recreation Activities

Boating, canoeing and boat and bank fishing

Recreation Access Fees

None

Key Views

Wylie dam and riverine section of the Catawba River

Topography

Flat slope

Vegetation

Mixed conifers and hardwoods

Shoreline Footage

2,042 feet

Ownership/Lease

Duke Power/SCDNR


4.7.2 Lake Wylie Recreation Use Assessment

Recreation Use

Visitation at the public access areas on Lake Wylie was derived based on estimates of the traffic entering the Duke-owned public access areas. Total estimated visitation during the 1999 study period for Lake Wylie at these sites was about 839,531 visits. Figure 4.7-11 shows the distribution of the visitation for each month at Lake Wylie for the Duke-owned public access areas during the 1999 study period. A visit is considered a vehicle or vehicle/trailer entering the site for any part of a day.

Figure 4.7-11

Figure 4.7-11.

Lake Wylie Estimate of Recreation Visitation at the Duke-Owned Access Areas


Table 4.7-16 provides a summary of the estimated recreation visitation based on the traffic counter data for the sampled sites during the 1999 study period. Of the Lake Wylie Duke-owned access areas, Ebenezer, Buster Boyd, and South Point were estimated to have the greatest amount of use at about 32 percent, 23 percent, and 22 percent, respectively, of the total estimated use at the Lake Wylie Duke-owned access areas.

Based on survey data input, the estimated ratio for annual visits to the project area for Survey B respondents (respondents that use both public and private access areas) compared to Survey C respondents (respondents at the public access areas) was about a ratio of 1.3 to 1. The estimated overall recreational visitation for Lake Wylie for the 1999 study period totaled 1,076,300 visits.

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Table 4.7-16

Lake Wylie Estimated Recreation Visitation at Duke-Owned Access Areas

Spot counts were conducted at six sites for Lake Wylie, Allen Fishing Area, Allison Creek, Buster Boyd, Fort Mill, Nivens Creek, and South Point Access areas. Table 4.7-17 lists the number of sample days per month for the spot count data collection.

Table 4.7-17 

Spot Count Collection Sites by Month


Site

Month

 

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Allen Fishing Area

1

3

0

1

2

4

2

2

4

1

1

0

Allison Creek

1

2

3

4

2

5

5

1

4

1

2

1

Buster Boyd

1

3

2

5

2

5

6

2

4

2

2

1

Fort Mill

1

2

3

4

2

3

2

2

4

1

2

1

Nivens Creek

0

3

1

2

2

3

3

2

4

1

2

1

South Point

2

2

2

1

2

3

2

2

4

1

1

0

The total number of surveys received for each survey is listed in Table 4.7-18. Survey D was conducted of marina operators, therefore numbers of surveys sent and received were low. Figure 4.7-12 shows the distribution of recreation activity type for Survey A, Survey B, and Survey C categories. Figure 4.7-13 shows the distribution of recreation activity type combining data from Surveys A, B, and C, spot counts and tailrace counts. Based on the combined data sources, the primary recreation activities for Lake Wylie during the 1999 study period were motor boating, boat fishing, bank/pier fishing, and swimming. For Lake Wylie, respondents indicated that for Survey A, about 12 percent recreated on the islands, for Survey B about 19 percent, and for Survey C about 2 percent. The combined responses to Surveys A, B, and C indicated that about 11 percent overall recreated on the islands of Lake Wylie. The respondents indicated that the majority of the island activity was swimming, picnicking, fishing and camping.

Table 4.7-18

Total Responses by Survey


Survey

A

B

C

E

Total

N=

137

129

127

17

410

Figure 4.7-12

Figure 4.7-12.

Lake Wylie Distribution of Recreation Activity Type from Survey Data Sources

For Lake Wylie, the average party size (average number of recreators in each party) for respondents to Survey A was 4.3, for Survey B was 3.9, and for Survey C was 2.8. The average party size for all three groups (A, B, and C) was 3.7. The average number of visits per year for Survey B was 64.9, for Survey C was 20.7, and for combined Survey B and C respondents was 42.9. The average length of stay for Survey B respondents was 9.3 hours, for Survey C respondents was 5 hours, and for combined Survey B and C respondents was 7.1 hours. About 29 percent of the respondents to Surveys A and B indicated that Lake Wylie was the lake they primarily recreated within the Catawba-Wateree system. For Survey A about 38 percent and for Survey B about 13 percent of the respondents indicated they had land abutting Lake Wylie.

Figure 4.7-13

Figure 4.7-13.

Lake Wylie Distribution of Recreation Activity Type from all Data Sources

Table 4.7-19 summarizes the perceived crowding ratings for Lake Wylie for each survey type, including responses to Surveys D and E and a combined rating for Survey A, B, and C responses. Recreators on Lake Wylie (Surveys A, B, and C) indicated that weekday crowding was about mid-range (on a scale of 1 to 5), and weekend crowding was high for survey respondents to Surveys A and B and mid-range for respondents at the public access areas (Survey C). The marina owners indicated low crowding levels during the week and high levels on the weekends, while the lake rescue and management groups indicated mid-range crowding ratings for weekdays and high crowding levels for weekends.

Table 4.7-19. 

Lake Wylie Perceived Crowding Ratings


 

Weekday

Weekend

Survey

Avg. of Rating

N=

Avg. of Rating

N=

A

2.4

119

4.4

119

B

2.5

115

4.4

117

C

2.0

41

2.3

44

Combined A,B,C*

2.4

275

4.1

280

D

2.0

3

3.7

3

E

2.9

28

4.6

29

* Weighted Average

Boating Use

Figure 4.7-14 shows the distribution of boating activity type for Lake Wylie based on Surveys A, B, and C individually comparing the percentage of each boating activity type to the overall boating use. The average boating party size was 3.8 for Survey A; 3.7 for Survey B; 2.5 for Survey C; and 3.3 for the combined responses for Surveys A, B, and C. The average number of hours boating was indicated as 3.4 hours for Survey A; 4.7 hours for Survey B; 5.1 hours for Survey C; and 4.4 hours for the combined responses for Surveys A, B, and C.

Figure 4.7-14

Figure 4.7-14.

Lake Wylie Distribution of Boating Use

Of the individuals surveyed who primarily recreated on Lake Wylie, about 94 percent of the Survey A respondents owned boats. For Survey B respondents, about 83 percent owned boats, about 68 percent of the Survey C respondents owned boats, and for the combined responses for Surveys A, B, and C, about 82 percent of the respondents owned boats.

Table 4.7-20 summarizes the distribution of boat ownership by type of boat for Lake Wylie. Motor boats comprised over 57 percent of the boat ownership, compared to the other boat categories, followed by jet skis at about 20 percent. The ownership of motor boat types was about 36 percent for small motor boats (ranging 20 feet or less in size) and about 21 percent for medium motor boats (ranging between 21 to 40 feet in size).

Table 4.7-20.

Lake Wylie Boat Ownership Type


Survey

A

B

C

Combined

N=

137

129

127

393

Motor Boat SM

33%

45%

29%

36%

Motor Boat MD

23%

16%

23%

21%

Motor Boat LG

0%

0%

1%

0%

Canoe

10%

11%

14%

11%

Kayak

1%

1%

0%

1%

Sailboat

7%

5%

7%

6%

Jet Ski

19%

16%

26%

20%

Other Boats

7%

5%

0%

5%

Total

100%

100%

100%

100%

Figure 4.7-15 shows the period of the day the respondents indicated they primarily boated, for Surveys A, B, and C. Lake Wylie was the second primary boat launching lake of the lakes within the Catawba-Wateree system for all survey respondents. For Survey A about 32 percent indicated they primarily launched boats at Lake Wylie. For Survey B about 26 percent;, for Survey C about 21 percent; and for the combined responses for Surveys A, B, and C about 26 percent of the respondents launched boats at Lake Wylie, compared to other lakes within the Catawba-Wateree system.

Figure 4.7-15

Figure 4.7-15.

Lake Wylie Boating Period Distribution


4.7.3 Lake Wylie Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment

The overall boat carrying capacity is assessed based on the peak boating use estimates obtained during the aerial flyovers in the 1999 study period. The available boating acreage was adjusted from the base boats per acreage estimate (see Table 4.7-21) by the following factors (Warren and Rea, 1989):

Factor
Adjustment
1. Location of the lake in relation to population served
0
2. Multiple use of water area
-

3.

Shoreline configuration
-
4. Amount of open water
0
5. Amount of facility and shoreline development
0
6. Crowding rating
-
 
Total
-3

Table 4.7-21. 

Boat Type Acreage Adjustment
(Source:  Modified from Warren and Rea, 1989)


Boat Activity Type

Low

-4

-3

-2

-1

Base

1

2

3

4

High

Fishing

10.0

9.0

8.0

6.0

5.0

4.3

4.0

3.3

3.0

2.3

2.0

Canoe/Kayak

2.5

2.3

2.0

1.8

1.5

1.3

1.1

1.0

0.8

0.7

0.5

Motor Boating

18.0

17.0

15.0

13.0

11.0

9.0

8.0

7.0

6.0

5.0

3.0

Sailing

10.0

9.0

8.0

6.0

5.0

4.3

4.0

3.3

3.0

2.3

2.0

Jet Skiing

10.0

9.0

8.0

6.0

5.0

4.3

4.0

3.3

3.0

2.3

2.0

Water Skiing

20.0

18.0

17.0

15.0

14.0

12.0

11.0

10.0

9.0

8.0

7.0

Table 4.7-22 summarizes the assessment of the allowable overall boat capacity based on the usable water surface acreage and the boating activity mix identified from the surveys. Table 4.7-23 provides the assessment of the percent capacity of the boat use for Lake Wylie on the peak day during the 1999 study period. Lake Wylie during the weekday was estimated at 19 percent capacity, during the weekend at 36 percent capacity, and during the peak holiday period at 64 percent capacity for overall boating use.

Table 4.7-22.

Lake Wylie Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment


Boat Activity

Usable Acreage

Use Factor

Max. No. Boats

% Usage

Boat Activity Mix

Persons/ Boat

Total Users

Fishing

12,859

8.0

1,607

23%

370

3.1

1,147

Canoe/Kayak

12,859

2.0

6,429

8%

514

3.3

1,696

Motor Boating

 9,263

15.0

618

34%

208

3.9

812

Sailing

9,263

8.0

1,158

3%

38

3.4

127

Jet Skiing

9,263

8.0

1,158

13%

148

3.9

571

Water Skiing

9,263

17.0

545

19%

103

4.4

453

Total

     

100%

1,381

 

4,806


Table 4.7-23.

Lake Wylie Estimated 1999 Study Period Boat Capacity


Peak use

Weekday

% Capacity

Weekend

% Capacity

Holiday

% Capacity

No. Boats

264

19%

504

36%

879

64%

The overall boat carrying capacity assessment provides an assessment of the total surface area available for boating use. To assess the areas of the lakes with higher density of boating use, the general location of boating activity was recorded during the aerial flyovers for each day of aerial coverage. Figure 4.7-16 shows the location of boats during the peak use day for Lake Wylie. Figure 4.7-17 shows the boating density on Lake Wylie for the peak use day and areas with the greatest clustering of boating activity. Figure 4.7-18 shows the boat density map based on the composite of the four highest boating use days. This figure illustrates the areas where boating use most often occurred during the peak use days during the study period and provides an assessment of areas with high density boating during the study period.

Click Here to View Full
Figure 4.7-16

Lake Wylie Peak Use Day Boat Counts

Figure 4.7-16

Click Here to View Full
Figure 4.7-17

Lake Wylie Peak Use Day Boat Density Map

Figure 4.7-17

Click Here to View Full
Figure 4.7-18

Lake Wylie Composite Peak Use Boat Density Map

Figure 4.7-18

Lake Wylie Estimated Future Recreational Demand

Table 4.7-23 provides the population projections for the counties within 50-60 miles of Lake Wylie reservoir. Population projections were conducted for these impact zones using population data from the Office of State Planning for the counties in North Carolina and from the Office of Research and Statistics for the counties in South Carolina for 1970 through 1990 and population projections from the U.S. Census Bureau for 2000, 2010, and 2020. An average percentage increase for each ten year period was calculated. The impact zone populations were then projected to the year 2050 using the average percentage growth for the entire time period.

Table 4.7-23

Lake Wylie Estimated Population Projections for the Impact Zone


County

1999

2000

2010

2020

2030

2040

2050

Mecklenburg

583,475

648,305

776,521

 909,800

1,099,403

1,328,519

1,605,383

Cabarrus

111,064

123,404

144,126

165,168

193,710

227,183

266,441

Lincoln

54,839

60,932

70,132

79,229

94,689

113,166

135,248

Gaston

164,090

182,322

186,268

189,339

198,875

208,891

219,412

Union

27,720

30,800

30,800

33,880

33,532

33,188

32,847

York

144,990

161,100

198,600

214,710

258,662

311,612

 375,401

Cherokee

44,370

49,400

53,300

58,230

63,835

69,980

76,717

Chester

51,750

57,500

58,500

64,250

69,694

75,598

82,003

Lancaster

30,690

34,100

36,100

39,150

41,354

43,682

46,142

Total

1,212,987

1,347,863

1,554,347

1,753,756

2,053,754

 2,411,819

2,839,594

Table 4.7-24 provides the estimated recreational use for the impact zone through the year 2050. Current use estimates are based on spot counts and responses to surveys. The recreational use projections were estimated by computing the projected population increase for the impact zone and incorporating indexed values for future recreational use for the various activities. The index values for each activity were obtained from "Outdoor Recreation in American Life: A National Assessment of Demand and Supply Trends" (Cordell, 1999). The indices are based on models that incorporate a number of variables, including age structure of the population, income, race, sex, and population density, as well as other explanatory variables. Full model parameters and estimates are available from the author.

Table 4.7-25 shows the estimated absorption percentage for the four major recreation activities that require specific lands and facilities. Picnicking, swimming, camping, and boating are activities that require specific developed facilities. The other activities listed are dispersed activities that can take place at a variety of undeveloped areas. The estimated 1999 use levels are from Table 4.7-24. The estimated demand is based on the impact zone population (population of all counties within 50-60 miles of the lake). The impact zone population is multiplied by the participation rate for the activity, which was obtained from "Emerging Markets for Outdoor Recreation in the United States: Based on the National Survey on Recreation and the Environment" by H. Ken Cordell, et al. Participation rates are for the South and are similar to 1995 North Carolina SCORP data. Specific participation rates are as follows: swimming, 37.3%; picnicking, 44.8%; camping, 22.4%; boating, 45.0%. The product of the impact zone population and participation rates are then multiplied by the estimated of number of days of participation for each activity, which were obtained from the 1995 North Carolina SCORP. The 1999 estimated number of participants for each activity was then divided by the 1999 estimated demand to obtain the estimated absorption percentage. Absorption percentage is defined as the percent of total demand for the impact zone that is met by the individual lake.

Table 4.7-26 provides the estimate of the recreational facilities land acreage needed to meet the future recreational demand through the year 2050. The weighted population is the estimated impact zone population multiplied by the participation rate for each activity. The facility standards and estimated acreage needs for the facility class are based on State SCORPS and FERC Guidelines for Outdoor Recreational Facilities. The facility need is the total facility need for the impact zone based on the weighted population and the facility standards. The total facility need is then multiplied by the absorption percentage to determine the facility need for Lake Wylie. The acreage needs are then based on the Lake Wylie facility need multiplied by per unit acreage needs that are based on State SCORPS and FERC Guidelines for Outdoor Recreation Facilities. For Lake Wylie, it is estimated that 146 acres are required to accommodate future recreational facilities demand through the year 2050. This includes 8 acres of beaches, 12 acres of picnic areas, 11 acres of campsites, and 115 acres of boat ramps.

The estimated acreage needs for the reservoir are total usable acreage needs. Usable land acreage at existing developed public recreational facilities can be counted toward meeting these needs. Duke Power sites, county and state parks, and other private and public agencies will meet these needs. There are a number of state and county parks that are located on lands leased from Duke Power. These areas are not included in the discussion, as Duke Power owned access areas. Duke Power is expected to meet a portion of the future recreational land needs. The entire estimated need will be met by a combination of opportunities from all sources.

For Lake Wylie, the most frequently identified recreational facility needs mentioned were for more restrooms and boat ramps. Through the AAII, additional restrooms will be provided at some access areas upon the signing of a lease with the county agency. Duke power does not plan to provide additional boat ramps at this time because the existing ramps are not used to capacity, except on some weekends.

Table 4.7-24

Lake Wylie Estimated Future Recreational Use


Activity

Est. 1999 Rec Use

Rec Use 2010

Rec Use 2020

Rec Use 2030

Rec Use 2040

Rec Use 2050

Motor Boating*

309,204

359,664

412,999

488,448

586,575

708,481

Boat Fishing*

348,715

432,904

519,643

629,858

741,397

855,035

Bank/Pier Fish

299,132

371,352

445,757

540,302

635,981

733,461

Lake Swimming

252,173

306,565

363,927

443,296

545,936

678,044

Canoeing*

48,182

57,880

67,429

82,538

104,738

137,860

Jet Skiing*

164,658

191,530

219,932

260,110

312,365

377,282

Kayaking*

9,833

11,438

13,132

15,527

18,786

23,174

Tailrace Fishing

26,460

32,848

39,429

47,792

56,256

64,878

Sailing*

26,847

31,228

35,859

42,410

50,930

61,515

Water Ski/Tubing*

168,860

196,417

225,544

266,747

320,336

386,909

Backpacking

1,967

2,696

3,590

4,820

6,298

8,132

Hunting

12,783

14,324

15,679

17,353

18,743

20,136

Tent/Vehicle Camp

17,699

24,755

33,533

45,658

61,203

80,996

Windsurfing

1,967

2,288

2,627

3,107

3,731

4,506

Bicycling

9,833

12,523

15,682

20,046

24,206

28,985

Picnicking

112,514

142,369

176,185

223,212

283,239

359,466

Sightseeing

90,375

117,733

149,109

191,135

244,625

310,981

Hiking

29,797

39,931

51,657

67,254

85,474

106,673

Wildlife Viewing

57,032

77,803

103,699

136,550

172,980

211,249

Using Playgrounds

10,816

13,698

16,848

21,115

26,567

33,497

Sub-total*

1,076,299

1,281,061

1,494,538

1,785,638

2,135,309

2,550,256

Total

1,998,846

2,440,037

2,912,260

3,547,278

4,297,366

5,191,260

*Boating activities

Table 4.7-25.

Lake Wylie Estimated Absorption Percentages for Reservoir


Activity

Estimated 1999 Participants

Estimated 1999 Demand

Absorption Percentage

Swimming

252,173

3,759,810

6.7%

Picnicking

112,514

2,336,698

4.8%

Camping

17,699

1,440,058

1.2%

Boating

1,076,299

3,002,142

35.9%


Table 4.7-26. 

Lake Wylie Estimated Recreational Facility Land Acreage Needs


A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

Activity

Year

Weighted Population

Facility Standard

Facility Need

Facility Class

Lake Wylie Share

Acreage

Swimming

2010

579,771

1 per 50,000

11.60

beaches

0.78

4.27

 

2020

654,151

1 per 50,000

13.08

beaches

0.88

4.82

 

2030

766,050

1 per 50,000

15.32

beaches

1.03

5.65

 

2040

883,467

1 per 50,000

17.67

beaches

1.21

6.63

 

2050

1,018,880

1 per 50,000

20.38

beaches

1.42

7.81

Picnicking

2010

696,347

1 per 500

1,392.69

tables

66.85

6.68

 

2020

785,683

1 per 500

1,571.37

tables

75.43

7.54

 

2030

920,082

1 per 500

1,840.16

tables

88.33

8.83

 

2040

1,061,108

1 per 500

2,122.22

tables

103.73

10.37

 

2050

1,223,749

1 per 500

2,447.50

tables

122.13

12.21

Camping

2010

348,174

6 per 1,000

2,089.04

campsites

25.07

6.27

 

2020

392,841

6 per 1,000

2,357.05

campsites

28.28

7.07

 

2030

460,041

6 per 1,000

2,760.25

campsites

33.12

8.28

 

2040

530,554

6 per 1,000

3,183.32

campsites

38.90

9.72

 

2050

611,875

6 per 1,000

3,671.25

campsites

45.80

11.45

Boating

2010

699,456

1 per 4000

174.86

boat ramps

62.78

62.78

 

2020

789,190

1 per 4000

197.30

boat ramps

70.83

70.83

 

2030

924,189

1 per 4000

231.05

boat ramps

82.95

82.95

 

2040

1,065,845

1 per 4000

266.46

boat ramps

97.41

97.41

 

2050

1,229,212

1 per 4000

307.30

boat ramps

114.68

114.68

         

Total Acreage for 2050

146.15


4.7.4 Lake Wylie Survey Respondent Comments

Recreators were asked in the surveys if the existing recreational facilities within the Catawba-Wateree system met their recreational needs. For Lake Wylie, 88 percent of Survey A (n=137); 70 percent for Survey B (n=129); 86 percent for Survey C (n=127); and 81 percent for combined Surveys A, B, and C, of the respondents stated that the existing facilities met their needs. The primary facilities that were indicated as needed at Lake Wylie included more boat ramps, picnic areas, and restroom facilities, and camping areas around the lake. In response to whether additional boating facilities were needed, 83 percent for Survey A (n=137); 70 percent for Survey B (n=129); 85 percent for Survey C (n=127); and 81 percent for combined Surveys A, B, and C felt that the existing boating facilities were adequate. The primary boating facilities that were indicated as needed at Lake Wylie included more marinas, pump out stations, and gas pumps.

About 47 percent for Survey A (n=137); 38 percent for Survey B (n=129); 10 percent for Survey C (n=127); and 32 percent for the combined Surveys A, B, and C indicated they had a negative experience while recreating. About 39 percent for Survey A (n=137); 23 percent for Survey B (n=129); 8 percent for Survey C (n=127); and 24 percent for the combined Surveys A, B, and C indicated they had felt jeopardized while recreating. The primary reasons listed for the negative experiences and incidences when recreators felt jeopardized were the result of reckless or inconsiderate boat or jet ski use by other recreators. Many of the comments were related to dangerous and inexperienced operation of jet skis and dangerous operation of boats that created large wakes or resulted in near collisions. In addition, respondents commented that Lake Wylie was too crowded with boat traffic. Several respondents commented on poor water quality.

In terms of responses to additional comments, many respondents to Surveys A, B, and C stated concerns associated with boating use on Lake Wylie. The primary concerns were related to safety factors associated with improper use of jet skis and boats. Respondents commented on the need for proper boat safety education for the boaters and jet skiers and the need for more enforcement of boating regulations. Several respondents commented that Lake Wylie was overcrowded with boating use. Several respondents commented on the effects of poor water quality.

When asked if they could change one thing, respondents to Surveys A, B, and C stated that they would like to see fewer or no jet skiing on Lake Wylie, and more boat regulation in terms of use and size of boats allowed on the lake. Respondents also stated concerns about water quality and pollution. Respondents to Survey E stated that jet skis should be required to operate at low speeds in restrictive areas, commented on overcrowding of boating activity, and cited inappropriate boating and jet ski practices.