Northampton_05-17328
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Wayne F. MacCallum, Director May 4, 2009 Susan McArthur Massachusetts Highway Department 10 Park Plaza Boston, MA 02116 RE: Project Description: Manhan
Rail Trail Project Location: Northampton NHESP File No.: 05-17328 Dear Ms. McArthur: The Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program (NHESP) of the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries
and Wildlife received your filing including project plans (dated 4/22/09). We reviewed your plans for compliance with the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MGL c131A, MESA) and its
implementing regulations (321 CMR 10.00). Your filing describes the construction of a bike path along an abandoned rail line in Northampton and Easthampton, MA. The Easthampton portion
of this project completed review under MESA in 2008. Based on a review of the information provided and the information contained in our database, the NHESP has determined that the Northampton
portion of this project does not require additional review. Specifically, the NHESP understands that a protection plan is in place to prevent direct impacts to wood turtles (Glyptemys
insculpta), a state-listed Species of Special Concern, in the vicinity of the Mill River Extension. These efforts should proceed as originally planned. Please do not hesitate to contact
Michael T. Jones, Endangered Species Review Biologist, at (508) 389-6386 (michael.t.jones@state.ma.us) with any questions or comments you may have. Sincerely, Thomas W. French, Ph. D.
Assistant Director cc: Bruce Young, City of Northampton Division of Fisheries and Wildlife Field Headquarters, One Rabbit Hill Road, Westborough, MA 01581 (508) 389-6300 Fax (508) 389-7891
An Agency of the Department of Fish & Game www.masswildlife.org