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Mass Audubon Manhan Meadows Restoration Project NOI 030620.pdf March 6, 2020 Kevin Lake Chair Northampton Conservation Commission 210 Main Street, Room 11 Northampton, Massachusetts 01060 Re: Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, Northampton, Massachusetts Notice of Intent ESS Project No. M393-000 Dear Mr. Lake, Enclosed, please find one original and one copy of the Notice of Intent (NOI) application for the Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project. ESS Group, Inc. (ESS) has prepared this NOI on behalf of Mass Audubon for compliance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (WPA) and the Northampton Wetlands Ordinance. A copy of the complete NOI application has been submitted to the MassDEP Western Regional Office and the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program. If you have any questions, please contact me at (401) 330-1208 or cwood@essgroup.com. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, ESS GROUP, INC. Craig Wood, PWS Principal Scientist C: Tom Lautzenheiser, Mass Audubon MassDEP Western Regional Office NHESP Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary Northampton, Massachusetts PREPARED FOR Mass Audubon 127 Combs Road Easthampton, Massachusetts 01027 PREPARED BY ESS Group, Inc. 10 Hemingway Drive, 2nd Floor East Providence, Rhode Island 02915 Project No. M393-000 March 2020 www.essgroup.com Notice of Intent The Oxbow by Thomas Cole (1836) © 2020 ESS Group, Inc. – This document or any part may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, microfilming, and recording without the express written consent of ESS Group, Inc. All rights reserved. TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION PAGE WPA FORM 3 – NOTICE OF INTENT WETLANDS FEE TRANSMITTAL FORM WPA FORM 3 APPENDIX A – ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION LIMITED PROJECTS ABUTTER NOTIFICATION MATERIALS NOTICE OF INTENT NARRATIVE 1.0 INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................................... 1 2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...................................................................................................................... 2 3.0 EXISTING CONDITIONS ........................................................................................................................ 2 3.1 Wetland Resource Areas .................................................................................................................. 2 3.1.1 Bordering Vegetated Wetland ................................................................................................. 2 3.1.2 Bordering Land Subject to Flooding........................................................................................ 3 3.2 State-listed Species .......................................................................................................................... 3 3.3 Historical and Archaeological Resources ......................................................................................... 3 4.0 IMPACT ASSESSMENT ......................................................................................................................... 3 4.1 Wetland Resource Areas .................................................................................................................. 3 4.2 State-listed Species .......................................................................................................................... 4 4.3 Historical and Archaeological Resources ......................................................................................... 4 5.0 IMPACT AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION .......................................................................................... 4 5.1 Wetland Resource Areas .................................................................................................................. 4 5.2 State-listed Species .......................................................................................................................... 4 5.3 Historical and Archaeological Resources ......................................................................................... 4 6.0 REGULATORY COMPLIANCE .............................................................................................................. 4 6.1 Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act .......................................................................................... 4 6.1.1 Ecological Restoration Limited Project Provisions .................................................................. 5 6.1.2 Bordering Vegetated Wetlands ............................................................................................... 7 6.1.3 Bordering Land Subject to Flooding........................................................................................ 7 6.2 Northampton Wetlands Ordinance ................................................................................................... 7 6.3 Massachusetts Endangered Species Act ......................................................................................... 7 TABLES Table 1 Limiting Factors, Proposed Responses, and Desired Outcomes of the Project FIGURES Figure 1 Project Locus Figure 2 Wetland Resource Areas Figure 3 Natural Heritage Areas ATTACHMENTS Attachment A Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan Attachment B Photographic Log Attachment C Environmental Monitor Notice www.essgroup.com WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent wpaform3.doc • rev. 2/8/2018 Page 1 of 9 4 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Important: When filling out forms on the computer, use only the tab key to move your cursor - do not use the return key. Note: Before completing this form consult your local Conservation Commission regarding any municipal bylaw or ordinance. A. General Information 1. Project Location (Note: electronic filers will click on button to locate project site): 0 Old Springfield Road a. Street Address Northampton b. City/Town 01060 c. Zip Code Latitude and Longitude: 42.3029 d. Latitude -72.6367 e. Longitude 45 and 38-D f. Assessors Map/Plat Number 31.1 and 75.1 g. Parcel /Lot Number 2. Applicant: Jonah a. First Name Keane b. Last Name Mass Audubon c. Organization 127 Combs Road d. Street Address Easthampton e. City/Town MA f. State 01027 g. Zip Code 413-276-7611 h. Phone Number i. Fax Number jkeane@massaudubon.org j. Email Address 3. Property owner (required if different from applicant): Check if more than one owner Wayne a. First Name Feiden b. Last Name City of Northampton c. Organization 210 Main Street d. Street Address Northampton e. City/Town MA f. State 01060 g. Zip Code 413-587-1265 h. Phone Number i. Fax Number wfeiden@northamptonma.gov j. Email address 4. Representative (if any): Craig a. First Name Wood b. Last Name ESS Group, Inc. c. Company 10 Hemingway Drive, 2nd Floor d. Street Address East Providence e. City/Town RI f. State 02915 g. Zip Code 401-330-1208 h. Phone Number i. Fax Number cwood@essgroup.com j. Email address 5. Total WPA Fee Paid (from NOI Wetland Fee Transmittal Form): $110.00 a. Total Fee Paid $42.50 b. State Fee Paid $67.50 c. City/Town Fee Paid wpaform3.doc • rev. 2/8/2018 Page 2 of 9 4 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town A. General Information (continued) 6. General Project Description: Restoration of approximately 13 acres of former floodplain forest within the floodplain of the Connecticut River through native plantings and invasive species management. 7a. Project Type Checklist: (Limited Project Types see Section A. 7b.) 1. Single Family Home 2. Residential Subdivision 3. Commercial/Industrial 4. Dock/Pier 5. Utilities 6. Coastal engineering Structure 7. Agriculture (e.g., cranberries, forestry) 8. Transportation 9. Other 7b. Is any portion of the proposed activity eligible to be treated as a limited project (including Ecological Restoration Limited Project) subject to 310 CMR 10.24 (coastal) or 310 CMR 10.53 (inland)? 1. Yes No If yes, describe which limited project applies to this project. (See 310 CMR 10.24 and 10.53 for a complete list and description of limited project types) 310 CMR 10.53(4)(e)(5): Other Ecological Restoration Limited Projects. 2. Limited Project Type If the proposed activity is eligible to be treated as an Ecological Restoration Limited Project (310 CMR10.24(8), 310 CMR 10.53(4)), complete and attach Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklist and Signed Certification. 8. Property recorded at the Registry of Deeds for: Hampshire a. County b. Certificate # (if registered land) 5115 and 2630 c. Book 113 and 341 d. Page Number B. Buffer Zone & Resource Area Impacts (temporary & permanent) 1. Buffer Zone Only – Check if the project is located only in the Buffer Zone of a Bordering Vegetated Wetland, Inland Bank, or Coastal Resource Area. 2. Inland Resource Areas (see 310 CMR 10.54-10.58; if not applicable, go to Section B.3, Coastal Resource Areas). Check all that apply below. Attach narrative and any supporting documentation describing how the project will meet all performance standards for each of the resource areas altered, including standards requiring consideration of alternative project design or location. wpaform3.doc • rev. 2/8/2018 Page 3 of 9 4 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town B. Buffer Zone & Resource Area Impacts (temporary & permanent) (cont’d) For all projects affecting other Resource Areas, please attach a narrative explaining how the resource area was delineated. Resource Area Size of Proposed Alteration Proposed Replacement (if any) a. Bank 1. linear feet 2. linear feet b. Bordering Vegetated Wetland 59,560 sf 1. square feet 2. square feet c. Land Under Waterbodies and Waterways 1. square feet 2. square feet 3. cubic yards dredged Resource Area Size of Proposed Alteration Proposed Replacement (if any) d. Bordering Land Subject to Flooding 517,100 1. square feet 2. square feet 3. cubic feet of flood storage lost 4. cubic feet replaced e. Isolated Land Subject to Flooding 1. square feet 2. cubic feet of flood storage lost 3. cubic feet replaced f. Riverfront Area 1. Name of Waterway (if available) - specify coastal or inland 2. Width of Riverfront Area (check one): 25 ft. - Designated Densely Developed Areas only 100 ft. - New agricultural projects only 200 ft. - All other projects 3. Total area of Riverfront Area on the site of the proposed project: square feet 4. Proposed alteration of the Riverfront Area: a. total square feet b. square feet within 100 ft. c. square feet between 100 ft. and 200 ft. 5. Has an alternatives analysis been done and is it attached to this NOI? Yes No 6. Was the lot where the activity is proposed created prior to August 1, 1996? Yes No 3. Coastal Resource Areas: (See 310 CMR 10.25-10.35) Note: for coastal riverfront areas, please complete Section B.2.f. above. wpaform3.doc • rev. 2/8/2018 Page 4 of 9 4 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town B. Buffer Zone & Resource Area Impacts (temporary & permanent) (cont’d) Check all that apply below. Attach narrative and supporting documentation describing how the project will meet all performance standards for each of the resource areas altered, including standards requiring consideration of alternative project design or location. Online Users: Include your document transaction number (provided on your receipt page) with all supplementary information you submit to the Department. Resource Area Size of Proposed Alteration Proposed Replacement (if any) a. Designated Port Areas Indicate size under Land Under the Ocean, below b. Land Under the Ocean 1. square feet 2. cubic yards dredged c. Barrier Beach Indicate size under Coastal Beaches and/or Coastal Dunes below d. Coastal Beaches 1. square feet 2. cubic yards beach nourishment e. Coastal Dunes 1. square feet 2. cubic yards dune nourishment Size of Proposed Alteration Proposed Replacement (if any) f. Coastal Banks 1. linear feet g. Rocky Intertidal Shores 1. square feet h. Salt Marshes 1. square feet 2. sq ft restoration, rehab., creation i. Land Under Salt Ponds 1. square feet 2. cubic yards dredged j. Land Containing Shellfish 1. square feet k. Fish Runs Indicate size under Coastal Banks, inland Bank, Land Under the Ocean, and/or inland Land Under Waterbodies and Waterways, above 1. cubic yards dredged l. Land Subject to Coastal Storm Flowage 1. square feet 4. Restoration/Enhancement If the project is for the purpose of restoring or enhancing a wetland resource area in addition to the square footage that has been entered in Section B.2.b or B.3.h above, please enter the additional amount here. a. square feet of BVW b. square feet of Salt Marsh 5. Project Involves Stream Crossings a. number of new stream crossings b. number of replacement stream crossings wpaform3.doc • rev. 2/8/2018 Page 5 of 9 4 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town C. Other Applicable Standards and Requirements This is a proposal for an Ecological Restoration Limited Project. Skip Section C and complete Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists – Required Actions (310 CMR 10.11). Streamlined Massachusetts Endangered Species Act/Wetlands Protection Act Review 1. Is any portion of the proposed project located in Estimated Habitat of Rare Wildlife as indicated on the most recent Estimated Habitat Map of State-Listed Rare Wetland Wildlife published by the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP)? To view habitat maps, see the Massachusetts Natural Heritage Atlas or go to http://maps.massgis.state.ma.us/PRI_EST_HAB/viewer.htm. a. Yes No If yes, include proof of mailing or hand delivery of NOI to: Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program Division of Fisheries and Wildlife 1 Rabbit Hill Road Westborough, MA 01581 b. Date of map If yes, the project is also subject to Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) review (321 CMR 10.18). To qualify for a streamlined, 30-day, MESA/Wetlands Protection Act review, please complete Section C.1.c, and include requested materials with this Notice of Intent (NOI); OR complete Section C.2.f, if applicable. If MESA supplemental information is not included with the NOI, by completing Section 1 of this form, the NHESP will require a separate MESA filing which may take up to 90 days to review (unless noted exceptions in Section 2 apply, see below). c. Submit Supplemental Information for Endangered Species Review∗ 1. Percentage/acreage of property to be altered: (a) within wetland Resource Area percentage/acreage (b) outside Resource Area percentage/acreage 2. Assessor’s Map or right-of-way plan of site 2. Project plans for entire project site, including wetland resource areas and areas outside of wetlands jurisdiction, showing existing and proposed conditions, existing and proposed tree/vegetation clearing line, and clearly demarcated limits of work ∗∗ (a) Project description (including description of impacts outside of wetland resource area & buffer zone) (b) Photographs representative of the site ∗ Some projects not in Estimated Habitat may be located in Priority Habitat, and require NHESP review (see http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/dfw/natural-heritage/regulatory-review/). Priority Habitat includes habitat for state-listed plants and strictly upland species not protected by the Wetlands Protection Act. ∗∗ MESA projects may not be segmented (321 CMR 10.16). The applicant must disclose full development plans even if such plans are not required as part of the Notice of Intent process. wpaform3.doc • rev. 2/8/2018 Page 6 of 9 4 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town C. Other Applicable Standards and Requirements (cont’d) (c) MESA filing fee (fee information available at http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/nhesp/regulatory_review/mesa/mesa_fee_schedule.htm). Make check payable to “Commonwealth of Massachusetts - NHESP” and mail to NHESP at above address Projects altering 10 or more acres of land, also submit: (d) Vegetation cover type map of site (e) Project plans showing Priority & Estimated Habitat boundaries (f) OR Check One of the Following 1. Project is exempt from MESA review. Attach applicant letter indicating which MESA exemption applies. (See 321 CMR 10.14, http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/nhesp/regulatory_review/mesa/mesa_exemptions.htm; the NOI must still be sent to NHESP if the project is within estimated habitat pursuant to 310 CMR 10.37 and 10.59.) 2. Separate MESA review ongoing. a. NHESP Tracking # b. Date submitted to NHESP 3. Separate MESA review completed. Include copy of NHESP “no Take” determination or valid Conservation & Management Permit with approved plan. 3. For coastal projects only, is any portion of the proposed project located below the mean high water line or in a fish run? a. Not applicable – project is in inland resource area only b. Yes No If yes, include proof of mailing, hand delivery, or electronic delivery of NOI to either: South Shore - Cohasset to Rhode Island border, and the Cape & Islands: Division of Marine Fisheries - Southeast Marine Fisheries Station Attn: Environmental Reviewer 836 South Rodney French Blvd. New Bedford, MA 02744 Email: DMF.EnvReview-South@state.ma.us North Shore - Hull to New Hampshire border: Division of Marine Fisheries - North Shore Office Attn: Environmental Reviewer 30 Emerson Avenue Gloucester, MA 01930 Email: DMF.EnvReview-North@state.ma.us Also if yes, the project may require a Chapter 91 license. For coastal towns in the Northeast Region, please contact MassDEP’s Boston Office. For coastal towns in the Southeast Region, please contact MassDEP’s Southeast Regional Office. wpaform3.doc • rev. 2/8/2018 Page 7 of 9 4 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town C. Other Applicable Standards and Requirements (cont’d) Online Users: Include your document transaction number (provided on your receipt page) with all supplementary information you submit to the Department. 4. Is any portion of the proposed project within an Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC)? a. Yes No If yes, provide name of ACEC (see instructions to WPA Form 3 or MassDEP Website for ACEC locations). Note: electronic filers click on Website. b. ACEC 5. Is any portion of the proposed project within an area designated as an Outstanding Resource Water (ORW) as designated in the Massachusetts Surface Water Quality Standards, 314 CMR 4.00? a. Yes No 6. Is any portion of the site subject to a Wetlands Restriction Order under the Inland Wetlands Restriction Act (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40A) or the Coastal Wetlands Restriction Act (M.G.L. c. 130, § 105)? a. Yes No 7. Is this project subject to provisions of the MassDEP Stormwater Management Standards? a. Yes. Attach a copy of the Stormwater Report as required by the Stormwater Management Standards per 310 CMR 10.05(6)(k)-(q) and check if: 1. Applying for Low Impact Development (LID) site design credits (as described in Stormwater Management Handbook Vol. 2, Chapter 3) 2. A portion of the site constitutes redevelopment 3. Proprietary BMPs are included in the Stormwater Management System. b. No. Check why the project is exempt: 1. Single-family house 2. Emergency road repair 3. Small Residential Subdivision (less than or equal to 4 single-family houses or less than or equal to 4 units in multi-family housing project) with no discharge to Critical Areas. D. Additional Information This is a proposal for an Ecological Restoration Limited Project. Skip Section D and complete Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Notice of Intent – Minimum Required Documents (310 CMR 10.12). Applicants must include the following with this Notice of Intent (NOI). See instructions for details. Online Users: Attach the document transaction number (provided on your receipt page) for any of the following information you submit to the Department. 1. USGS or other map of the area (along with a narrative description, if necessary) containing sufficient information for the Conservation Commission and the Department to locate the site. (Electronic filers may omit this item.) 2. Plans identifying the location of proposed activities (including activities proposed to serve as a Bordering Vegetated Wetland [BVW] replication area or other mitigating measure) relative to the boundaries of each affected resource area. wpaform3.doc • rev. 2/8/2018 Page 8 of 9 4 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town D. Additional Information (cont’d) 3. Identify the method for BVW and other resource area boundary delineations (MassDEP BVW Field Data Form(s), Determination of Applicability, Order of Resource Area Delineation, etc.), and attach documentation of the methodology. 4. List the titles and dates for all plans and other materials submitted with this NOI. a. Plan Title b. Prepared By c. Signed and Stamped by d. Final Revision Date e. Scale f. Additional Plan or Document Title g. Date 5. If there is more than one property owner, please attach a list of these property owners not listed on this form. 6. Attach proof of mailing for Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program, if needed. 7. Attach proof of mailing for Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, if needed. 8. Attach NOI Wetland Fee Transmittal Form 9. Attach Stormwater Report, if needed. E. Fees 1. Fee Exempt: No filing fee shall be assessed for projects of any city, town, county, or district of the Commonwealth, federally recognized Indian tribe housing authority, municipal housing authority, or the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority. Applicants must submit the following information (in addition to pages 1 and 2 of the NOI Wetland Fee Transmittal Form) to confirm fee payment: Online payment 2. Municipal Check Number 3. Check date 64943 4. State Check Number 3/5/2020 5. Check date ESS Group, Inc. 6. Payor name on check: First Name 7. Payor name on check: Last Name www.essgroup.com Wetlands Fee Transmittal Form noifeetf.doc • Wetland Fee Transmittal Form • rev. 10/11 Page 1 of 2 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands NOI Wetland Fee Transmittal Form Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Important: When filling out forms on the computer, use only the tab key to move your cursor - do not use the return key. A. Applicant Information 1. Location of Project: 0 Old Springfield Road a. Street Address Northampton b. City/Town 64943 c. Check number $42.50 d. Fee amount 2. Applicant Mailing Address: Jonah a. First Name Keane b. Last Name Mass Audubon c. Organization 127 Combs Road d. Mailing Address Easthampton e. City/Town MA f. State 01027 g. Zip Code 413-276-7611 h. Phone Number i. Fax Number jkeane@massaudubon.org j. Email Address 3. Property Owner (if different): Wayne a. First Name Feiden b. Last Name City of Northampton c. Organization 210 Main Street d. Mailing Address Northampton e. City/Town MA f. State 01060 g. Zip Code 413-587-1265 h. Phone Number i. Fax Number wfeiden@northamptonma.gov j. Email Address To calculate filing fees, refer to the category fee list and examples in the instructions for filling out WPA Form 3 (Notice of Intent). B. Fees Fee should be calculated using the following process & worksheet. Please see Instructions before filling out worksheet. Step 1/Type of Activity: Describe each type of activity that will occur in wetland resource area and buffer zone. Step 2/Number of Activities: Identify the number of each type of activity. Step 3/Individual Activity Fee: Identify each activity fee from the six project categories listed in the instructions. Step 4/Subtotal Activity Fee: Multiply the number of activities (identified in Step 2) times the fee per category (identified in Step 3) to reach a subtotal fee amount. Note: If any of these activities are in a Riverfront Area in addition to another Resource Area or the Buffer Zone, the fee per activity should be multiplied by 1.5 and then added to the subtotal amount. Step 5/Total Project Fee: Determine the total project fee by adding the subtotal amounts from Step 4. Step 6/Fee Payments: To calculate the state share of the fee, divide the total fee in half and subtract $12.50. To calculate the city/town share of the fee, divide the total fee in half and add $12.50. noifeetf.doc • Wetland Fee Transmittal Form • rev. 10/11 Page 2 of 2 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands NOI Wetland Fee Transmittal Form Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 B. Fees (continued) Step 1/Type of Activity Step 2/Number of Activities Step 3/Individual Activity Fee Step 4/Subtotal Activity Fee Category 1d 1 $110.00 $110.00 Step 5/Total Project Fee: $110.00 Step 6/Fee Payments: Total Project Fee: $110.00 a. Total Fee from Step 5 State share of filing Fee: $42.50 b. 1/2 Total Fee less $12.50 City/Town share of filling Fee: $67.50 c. 1/2 Total Fee plus $12.50 C. Submittal Requirements a.) Complete pages 1 and 2 and send with a check or money order for the state share of the fee, payable to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Department of Environmental Protection Box 4062 Boston, MA 02211 b.) To the Conservation Commission: Send the Notice of Intent or Abbreviated Notice of Intent; a copy of this form; and the city/town fee payment. To MassDEP Regional Office (see Instructions): Send a copy of the Notice of Intent or Abbreviated Notice of Intent; a copy of this form; and a copy of the state fee payment. (E-filers of Notices of Intent may submit these electronically.) www.essgroup.com WPA Form 3, Appendix A – Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklist noiappa.doc • rev 2/8/2018 Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklists • Page 1 of 16 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Eligibility Checklist This Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklist guides the applicant in determining if their project is eligible to file as an Inland or Coastal Ecological Restoration Limited Project (310 CMR 10.53(4) or 310 CMR 10.24(8) respectively). These criteria must be met when submitting the Ecological Restoration Limited Project Notice of Intent to ensure that the restoration and improvement of the natural capacity of a Resource Area(s) to protect and sustain the interests identified in the WPA is necessary to achieve the project’s ecological restoration goals. Important: When filling out forms on the computer, use only the tab key to move your cursor - do not use the return key. Note: Before completing this form consult your local Conservation Commission regarding any municipal bylaw or ordinance. Regulatory Features of All Coastal and Inland Ecological Restoration Limited Projects (a) May result in the temporary or permanent loss of/or conversion of Resource Area: An Ecological Restoration Limited Project that meets the requirements of 310 CMR 10.24(8) may result in the temporary or permanent loss of Resource Areas and/or the conversion of one Resource Area to another when such loss is necessary to the achievement of the project’s ecological restoration goals. (b) Exemption from wildlife habitat evaluation: A NOI for an Ecological Restoration Limited Project that meets the minimum requirements for Ecological Restoration Projects and for a MassDEP Combined Application outlined in 310 CMR 10.12(1) and (2) is exempt from providing a wildlife habitat evaluation (310 CMR 10.60). (c) The following are considerations for applicants filing an Ecological Restoration Limited Project NOI and for the issuing authority approving a project as an Ecological Restoration Limited Project: The condition of existing and historic Resource Areas proposed for restoration. Evidence of the extent and severity of the impairment(s) that reduce the capacity of the Resource Areas to protect and sustain the interests identified in M.G.L. c. 131, § 40. The magnitude and significance of the benefits of the Ecological Restoration Project in improving the capacity of the affected Resource Areas to protect and sustain the other interests identified in M.G.L. c. 131, § 40. The magnitude and significance of the impacts of the Ecological Restoration Project on existing Resource Areas that may be modified, converted and/or lost and the interests for which said Resource Areas are presumed significant in 310 CMR 10.00, and the extent to which the project will: a. avoid adverse impacts to Resource Areas and the interests identified in M.G.L. c. 131, § 40, that can be avoided without impeding the achievement of the project’s ecological restoration goals. b. minimize adverse impacts to Resource Areas and the interests identified in M.G.L. c. 131, § 40, that are necessary to the achievement of the project’s ecological restoration goals. c. utilize best management practices such as erosion and siltation controls and proper construction sequencing to avoid and minimize adverse construction impacts to resource areas and the interests identified in M.G.L. c. 131, § 40. noiappa.doc • rev 2/8/2018 Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklists • Page 2 of 16 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Eligibility Criteria - Coastal Ecological Restoration Limited Projects (310 CMR 10.24(8)) Complete this Eligibility Criteria Checklist before filling out a Notice of Intent Application to determine if your project qualifies as a Coastal Ecological Restoration Limited Project. (310 CMR 10.24(8)) Sign the Eligibility Certification at the end of Appendix A, and attach the checklist with supporting documentation and the Eligibility Certification to your Notice of Intent Application. General Eligibility Criteria for All Coastal Ecological Restoration Limited Projects Notwithstanding the requirements of 310 CMR 10.25 through 10.35, 310 CMR 10.54 through 10.58, and the Wildlife Habitat evaluations in 310 CMR 10.60, the Issuing Authority may issue an Order of Conditions permitting an Ecological Restoration Project listed in 310 CMR 10.24(8)(e) as an Ecological Restoration Limited Project and impose such conditions as will contribute to the interests identified in the WPA M.G.L. provided that the project meets all the requirements in 310 CMR 10.24 (8). The project is an Ecological Restoration Project as defined in 310 CMR 10.04 and is a project type listed below [310 CMR 10.24(8)(e)]. Tidal Restoration. Shellfish Habitat Restoration. Other Ecological Restoration Limited Project Type. The project will further at least one of the WPA (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40) interests identified below. Protection of public or private water supply. Protection of ground water supply. Flood control. Storm damage prevention. Prevention of pollution. Protection of land containing shellfish. Protection of fisheries. Protection of wildlife habitat. If the project will impact an area located within estimated habitat which is indicated on the most recent Estimated Habitat Map of State-Listed Rare Wetlands, a NHESP preliminary written determination is attached to the NOI submittal that the project will not have any adverse long-term and short-term effects on specified habitat sites of Rare Species or the project will be carried out in accordance with an approved NHESP habitat management plan. noiappa.doc • rev 2/8/2018 Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklists • Page 3 of 16 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Eligibility Criteria - Coastal Ecological Restoration Limited Projects (310 CMR 10.24(8)) (Cont.) General Eligibility Criteria for All Coastal Ecological Restoration Limited Projects (cont.) If the project is located in a Coastal Dune or Barrier Beach, the project avoids and minimizes armoring of the Coastal Dune or Barrier Beach to the maximum extent practicable. The project complies with all applicable provisions of 310 CMR 10.24(1) through (6) and 310 CMR 10.24(9) and (10). Additional Eligibility Criteria for Specific Coastal Ecological Restoration Limited Project Types These additional criteria must be met to qualify as an Ecological Restoration Limited Project to ensure that the restoration and improvement of the natural capacity of a Resource Area to protect and sustain the interests identified in the WPA is necessary to achieve the project’s ecological restoration goals. This Ecological Restoration Limited Project application meets the eligibility criteria for Ecological Restoration Limited Project [310 CMR 10.24(8)(a) through (d) and as proposed, furthers at least one of the WPA interests is for the project type identified below. Tidal Restoration Projects A project to restore tidal flow that will not significantly increase flooding or storm damage impacts to the built environment, including without limitation, buildings, wells, septic systems, roads or other man-made structures or infrastructure. Shellfish Habitat Restoration Projects The project has received a Special Projects Permit from the Division of Marine Fisheries or, if a municipality, has received a shellfish propagation permit. The project is made of cultch (e.g., shellfish shells from oyster, surf or ocean clam) or is a structure manufactured specifically for shellfish enhancement (e.g., reef blocks, reef balls, racks, floats, rafts, suspended gear). Other Ecological Restoration Projects that meet the criteria set forth in 310 CMR 10.24(8)(a) through (d). Restoration, enhancement, or management of Rare Species habitat. Restoration of hydrologic and habitat connectivity. Removal of aquatic nuisance vegetation to impede eutrophication. Thinning or planting of vegetation to improve habitat value. Fill removal and re-grading. Riparian corridor re-naturalization. River floodplain re-connection. noiappa.doc • rev 2/8/2018 Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklists • Page 4 of 16 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Eligibility Criteria - Coastal Ecological Restoration Limited Projects (310 CMR 10.24(8)) (Cont.) Additional Eligibility Criteria for Specific Coastal Ecological Restoration Limited Project Types In-stream habitat enhancement. Remediation of historic tidal wetland ditching. Eelgrass restoration. Invasive species management. Installation of fish passage structures. Other. Describe: This project involves the construction, repair, replacement or expansion of public or private infrastructure (310 CMR 10.24(9). The NOI attachment labeled is an operation and maintenance plan to ensure that the infrastructure will continue to function as designed. The operation and maintenance plan will be implemented as a continuing condition in the Order of Conditions and the Certificate of Compliance. This project proposes to replace an existing stream crossing (310 CMR 10.24(10). The crossing complies with the Massachusetts Stream Crossing Standards to the maximum extent practicable with details provided in the NOI. The crossing type: Replaces an existing non-tidal crossing that is part of an Anadromous/Catadromous Fish Run (310 CMR 10.35) Replaces an existing tidal crossing that restricts tidal flow. The tidal restriction will be eliminated to the maximum extent practicable. At a minimum, in evaluating the potential to comply with the standards to the maximum extent practicable the following criteria have been consider site constraints in meeting the standard, undesirable effects or risk in meeting the standard, and the environmental benefit of meeting the standard compared to the cost, by evaluating the following: The potential for downstream flooding; Upstream and downstream habitat (in-stream habitat, wetlands); Potential for erosion and head-cutting; Stream stability; Habitat fragmentation caused by the crossing; The amount of stream mileage made accessible by the improvements; Storm flow conveyance; noiappa.doc • rev 2/8/2018 Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklists • Page 5 of 16 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Eligibility Criteria - Coastal Ecological Restoration Limited Projects (310 CMR 10.24(8)) (Cont.) Additional Eligibility Criteria for Specific Coastal Ecological Restoration Limited Project Types Engineering design constraints specific to the crossing; Hydrologic constraints specific to the crossing; Impacts to wetlands that would occur by improving the crossing; Potential to affect property and infrastructure; and Cost of replacement. Eligibility Criteria - Inland Ecological Restoration Limited Project (310 CMR 10.53(4)) Complete this Eligibility Criteria Checklist before filling out a Notice of Intent Application to determine if your project qualifies as an Inland Ecological Restoration Limited Project. (310 CMR 10.53(4)) Sign the Eligibility Certification at the end of Appendix A, and attach the checklist with supporting documentation and the Eligibility Certification to your Notice of Intent Application. General Eligibility Criteria for All Inland Ecological Restoration Limited Projects Notwithstanding the requirements of any other provision of 310 CMR 10.25 through 10.35, 310 CMR 10.54 through 10.58, and 310 CMR 10.60, the Issuing Authority may issue an Order of Conditions permitting an Ecological Restoration Project listed in 310 CMR 10.53(4)(e) as an Ecological Restoration Limited Project and impose such conditions as will contribute to the interests identified in M.G.L. c. 131, § 40, provided that: The project is an Ecological Restoration Project as defined in 310 CMR 10.04 and is a project type listed below [310 CMR 10.53(4)(e)]. Dam Removal Freshwater Stream Crossing Repair and Replacement Stream Daylighting Tidal Restoration Rare Species Habitat Restoration Restoring Fish Passageways Other (describe project type): Floodplain forest restoration noiappa.doc • rev 2/8/2018 Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklists • Page 6 of 16 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Eligibility Criteria - Inland Ecological Restoration Limited Project (310 CMR 10.53(4)) (cont.) General Eligibility Criteria for All Inland Ecological Restoration Limited Projects The project will further at least one of the WPA (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40) interests identified below. Protection of public or private water supply Protection of ground water supply Flood control Storm damage prevention Prevention of pollution Protection of land containing shellfish Protection of fisheries Protection of wildlife habitat If the project will impact an area located within estimated habitat which is indicated on the most recent Estimated Habitat Map of State-Listed Rare Wetlands, a NHESP preliminary written determination is attached to the NOI submittal that the project will have no adverse long-term and short-term effects on specified habitat sites of Rare Species or the project will be carried out in accordance with an approved NHESP habitat management plan. The project will be carried out in accordance with any time of year restrictions or other conditions recommended by the Division of Marine Fisheries for coastal waters and the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife in accordance with 310 CMR 10.11(3). If the project involves the dredging of 100 cubic yards of sediment or more or dredging of any amount in an Outstanding Resource Water, a Water Quality Certification has been applied for or obtained. The project complies with all applicable provisions of 310 CMR 10.53(1), (2), (7), and (8). noiappa.doc • rev 2/8/2018 Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklists • Page 7 of 16 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Eligibility Criteria - Inland Ecological Restoration Limited Project (310 CMR 10.53(4)) (cont.) Additional Eligibility Criteria for Specific Inland Ecological Restoration Limited Project Types These additional criteria must be met to qualify as an Ecological Restoration Limited Project to ensure that the restoration and improvement of the natural capacity of a Resource Area to protect and sustain the interests identified in the WPA is necessary to achieve the project’s ecological restoration goals. This project application meets the eligibility criteria for Ecological Restoration Limited Project in accordance with [310 CMR 10.53(4)(a) through (d) and as proposed, furthers at least one of the WPA interests is for the project type identified below: Dam Removal Project is consistent with MassDEP’s 2007 Dam Removal Guidance. Freshwater Stream Crossing Repair and Replacement. The project as proposed and the NOI describes how: Meeting the eligibility criteria set forth in 310 CMR 10.13 would result in significant stream instability or flooding hazard that cannot otherwise be mitigated, and site constraints make it impossible to meet said criteria. The project design ensures that the stability of the bank is NOT impaired. To the maximum extent practicable, the project provides for the restoration of the stream upstream and downstream of the structure as needed to restore stream continuity and eliminate barriers to aquatic organism movement. The project complies with the requirements of 310 CMR 10.53(7) and (8). Stream Daylighting Projects The project meets the eligibility criteria for Ecological Restoration Limited Project [310 CMR 10.53(4)(a) through (d)] and as proposed the NOI describes how the proposed project meets to the maximum extent practicable, consistent with the project’s ecological restoration goals, all the performance standards for Bank and Land Under Water Bodies and Waterways. The project meets the requirements of 310 CMR 10.12(1) and (2) and a wildlife habitat evaluation is not included in the NOI. Tidal Restoration Project Restores tidal flow. the project, including any proposed flood mitigation measures, will not significantly increase flooding or storm damage to the built environment, including without limitation, buildings, wells, septic systems, roads or other man-made structures or infrastructure. noiappa.doc • rev 2/8/2018 Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklists • Page 8 of 16 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Eligibility Criteria - Inland Ecological Restoration Limited Project (310 CMR 10.53(4)) (cont.) Other Ecological Restoration Projects that meet the criteria set forth in 310 CMR 10.53 (4) (a) through (d). Restoration, enhancement, or management of Rare Species habitat. Restoration of hydrologic and habitat connectivity. Removal of aquatic nuisance vegetation to impede eutrophication. Thinning or planting of vegetation to improve habitat value. Riparian corridor re-naturalization. River floodplain re-connection. In-stream habitat enhancement. Fill removal and re-grading. Flow restoration. Installation of fish passage structures. Invasive species management. Other. Describe: This project involves the construction, repair, replacement or expansion of public or private infrastructure. (310 CMR 10.53(7)) The NOI attachment labeled is an operation and maintenance plan to ensure that the infrastructure will continue to function as designed. The operation and maintenance plan will be implemented as a continuing condition in the Order of Conditions and the Certificate of Compliance. This project replaces an existing stream crossing (310 CMR 10.53(8)). The crossing type: Replaces an existing non-tidal crossing designed to comply with the Massachusetts Stream Crossing Standards to the maximum extent practicable with details provided in the NOI. Replaces an existing tidal crossing that restricts tidal flow. The tidal restriction will be eliminated to the maximum extent practicable. noiappa.doc • rev 2/8/2018 Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklists • Page 9 of 16 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Eligibility Criteria - Inland Ecological Restoration Limited Project (310 CMR 10.53(4)) (cont.) At a minimum, in evaluating the potential to comply with the standards to the maximum extent practicable the following criteria have been consider site constraints in meeting the standard, undesirable effects or risk in meeting the standard, and the environmental benefit of meeting the standard compared to the cost, by evaluating the following: The potential for downstream flooding; Upstream and downstream habitat (in-stream habitat, wetlands); Potential for erosion and head-cutting; Stream stability; Habitat fragmentation caused by the crossing; The amount of stream mileage made accessible by the improvements; Storm flow conveyance; Engineering design constraints specific to the crossing; Hydrologic constraints specific to the crossing; Impacts to wetlands that would occur by improving the crossing; Potential to affect property and infrastructure; and Cost of replacement. noiappa.doc • rev 2/8/2018 Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklists • Page 10 of 16 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Required Actions (310 CMR 10.11) Complete the Required Actions before submitting a Notice of Intent Application for an Ecological Restoration Project and submit a completed copy of this Checklist with the Notice of Intent. Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) / Environmental Monitor http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/mepa/submitting-notices-to-the-environmental-monitor.html For Ecological Restoration Limited Projects, there are no changes to MEPA requirements. Submit written notification at least 14 days prior to the filing of a Notice of Intent (NOI) to the Environmental Monitor for publication. A copy of the written notification is attached and provides at minimum: A brief description of the proposed project. The anticipated NOI submission date to the conservation commission. The name and address of the conservation commission that will review the NOI. Specific details as to where copies of the NOI may be examined or acquired and where to obtain the date, time, and location of the public hearing. Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) /Wetlands Protection Act Review Preliminary Massachusetts Endangered Species Act Review from the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) has been met and the written determination is attached. Supplemental Information for Endangered Species Review has been submitted. 1. Percentage/acreage of property to be altered: a. Within Wetland Resource Area 10.0 acres Percentage/acreage b. Outside Wetland Resource Area N/A Percentage/acreage 2. Assessor’s Map or right-of-way plan of site 3. Project plans for entire project site, including wetland resource areas and areas outside of wetlands jurisdiction, showing existing and proposed conditions, existing and proposed tree/vegetation clearing line, and clearly demarcated limits of work. 4. Project description (including description of impacts outside of wetland resource area & buffer zone) 5. Photographs representative of the site 6. MESA filing fee (fee information available at http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/nhesp/regulatory_review/mesa/mesa_fee_schedule.htm) noiappa.doc • rev 2/8/2018 Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklists • Page 11 of 16 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Required Actions (310 CMR 10.11) (cont.) Make check payable to “Commonwealth of Massachusetts - NHESP” and mail to NHESP: Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife 1 Rabbit Hill Road Westborough, MA 01581 7. Projects altering 10 or more acres of land, also submit: a. Vegetation cover type map of site b. Project plans showing Priority & Estimated Habitat boundaries OR Check One of the Following: 1. Project is exempt from MESA review. Attach applicant letter indicating which MESA exemption applies. (See 321 CMR 10.14, http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/dfw/natural-heritage/regulatory-review/mass-endangered-species-act-mesa/; the NOI must still be sent to NHESP if the project is within estimated habitat pursuant to 310 CMR 10.37 and 10.59 – see C4 below) 2. Separate MESA review ongoing. a. NHESP Tracking # b. Date submitted to NHESP 3. Separate MESA review completed. Include copy of NHESP “no Take” determination or valid Conservation & Management Permit with approved plan. Estimated Habitat Map of State-Listed Rare Wetlands Wildlife If a portion of the proposed project is located in Estimated Habitat of Rare Wildlife as indicated on the most recent Estimated Habitat Map of State-Listed Rare Wetland Wildlife published by the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP), complete the portion below. To view habitat maps, see the Massachusetts Natural Heritage Atlas or view the maps electronically at: http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/dfw/natural-heritage/regulatory-review A preliminary written determination from Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) must be obtained indicating that: Project will NOT have long- or short-term adverse effect on the actual Resource Area located within estimated habitat indicated on the most recent Estimated Habitat Map of State-Listed Rare Wetlands Wildlife published by NHESP. Project will have long- or short-term adverse effect on the actual Resource Area located within estimated habitat indicated on the most recent Estimated Habitat Map of State-Listed Rare Wetlands Wildlife published by NHESP. A copy of NHESP’s written preliminary determination in accordance with 310 CMR 10.11(2) is attached. This specifies: Date of the map: noiappa.doc • rev 2/8/2018 Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklists • Page 12 of 16 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Required Actions (310 CMR 10.11) (cont.) If the Rare Species identified is/are likely to continue to be located on or near the project, and if so, whether the Resource Area to be altered is in fact part of the habitat of the Rare Species. That if the project alters Resource Area(s) within the habitat of a Rare Species: The Rare Species is identified; NHESP’s recommended changes or conditions necessary to ensure that the project will have no short or long term adverse effect on the habitat of the local population of the Rare Species is provided; or An approved NHESP habitat management plan is attached with this Notice of Intent. Send the request for a preliminary determination to: Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife 1 Rabbit Hill Road Westborough, MA 01581 Division of Marine Fisheries If the project will occur within a coastal waterbody with a restricted Time of Year, [see Appendix B of the Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) Technical Report TR 47 “Marine Fisheries Time of Year Restrictions (TOYs) for Coastal Alteration Projects” dated April 2011 http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/Portals/74/docs/regulatory/StateGeneralPermits/NEGP/MADMFTR-47.pdf]. Obtain a DMF written determination stating: The proposed work does NOT require a TOY restriction. The proposed work requires a TOY restriction. Specific recommended TOY restriction and recommended conditions on the proposed work is attached. If the project may affect a diadromous fish run [re: Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) Technical Reports TR 15 through 18, dated 2004: http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/dmf/publications/technical.html] Obtain a DMF written determination stating: The design specifications and operational plan for the project are compatible with the passage requirements of the fish run. The design specifications and operational plan for the project are not compatible with the passage requirements of the fish run. noiappa.doc • rev 2/8/2018 Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklists • Page 13 of 16 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Required Actions (310 CMR 10.11) (cont.) Send the request for a written or electronic determination to: South Shore – Cohasset to Rhode Island border, and the Cape & Islands: Division of Marine Fisheries – South Coast Field Station Attn: Environmental Reviewer 836 South Rodney French Blvd. New Bedford, MA 02744 Email: DMF.EnvReview-South@state.ma.us North Shore – Hull to New Hampshire border: Division of Marine Fisheries – North Shore Field Station Attn: Environmental Reviewer 30 Emerson Avenue Gloucester, MA 01930 Email: DMF.EnvReview-North@state.ma.us Division of Fisheries and Wildlife – http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/dfw/ Projects that involve silt-generating, in-water work that will impact a non-tidal perennial river or stream and the in-water work will not occur between May 1 and August 30. Obtain a written determination from the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFW) as to whether the proposed work requires a TOY restriction. The proposed work does NOT require a TOY restriction. The proposed work requires a TOY restriction. The DFW determination with TOY restriction and other conditions is attached. MassDEP Water Quality Certification Project involves dredging of 100 cubic yards or more in a Resource Area or dredging of any amount in an Outstanding Resource Water (ORW). A copy and proof of the MassDEP Water Quality Certification pursuant to 314 CMR 9.00 is attached to the NOI. This project is a Combined Permit Application for 401 Dredging and Restoration (BRP WW 26). MassDEP Wetlands Restriction Order Is any portion of the site subject to a Wetlands Restriction Order under the Inland Wetlands Restriction Act (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40A) or the Coastal Wetlands Restriction Act (M.G.L. c. 130, § 105)? Yes No Department of Conservation and Recreation Office of Dam Safety For Dam Removal Projects, obtain a written determination from the Department of Conservation and Recreation Office of Dam Safety that the dam is not subject to the jurisdiction of the Office under 302 CMR 10.00, a written determination that the dam removal does not require a permit under 302 CMR 10.00 or a permit authorizing the dam removal in accordance with 302 CMR 10.00 has been issued. noiappa.doc • rev 2/8/2018 Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklists • Page 14 of 16 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Required Actions (310 CMR 10.11) (cont.) Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACECs) Is any portion of the proposed project within an Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC)? Yes No If yes, provide name of ACEC (see instructions to WPA Form 3 or MassDEP Website for ACEC locations). Name of ACEC Minimum Required Documents (310 CMR 10.12) Complete the Required Documents Checklist below and provide supporting materials before submitting a Notice of Intent Application for an Ecological Restoration Project. This Notice of Intent meets all applicable requirements outlined in for Ecological Restoration Projects in 310 CMR 10.12. Use the checklist below to insure that all documentation is included with the NOI. At a minimum, a Notice of Intent for an Ecological Restoration Project shall include the following: Description of the project’s ecological restoration goals; The location of the Ecological Restoration Project; Description of the construction sequence for completing the project; A map of the Areas Subject to Protection Under M.G.L. c. 131, § 40, that will be temporarily or permanently altered by the project or include habitat for Rare Species, Habitat of Potential Regional and Statewide Importance, eel grass beds, or Shellfish Suitability Areas. The method for BVW and other resource area boundary delineations (MassDEP BVW Field Data Form(s), Determination of Applicability, Order of Resource Area Delineation, etc.) is attached with documentation methodology. List the titles and dates for all plans and other materials submitted with this NOI. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project a. Plan Title ESS Group, Inc. b. Prepared by c. Signed and Stamped by June 2019 d. Final Revision Date e. Scale f. Additional Plan or Document Title g. Date If there is more than one property owner, attach a list of these property owners not listed on this form. Attach NOI Wetland Fee Transmittal Form. noiappa.doc • rev 2/8/2018 Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklists • Page 15 of 16 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Minimum Required Documents (310 CMR 10.12) An evaluation of any flood impacts that may affect the built environment, including without limitation, buildings, wells, septic systems, roads or other man-made structures or infrastructure as well as any proposed flood impact mitigation measures; A plan for invasive species prevention and control; The Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program written determination in accordance with 310 CMR 10.11(2), if needed; Any Time of Year restrictions and/or other conditions recommended by the Division of Marine Fisheries or the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife in accordance with 310 CMR 10.11(3), (4), (5), if needed; Proof that notice was published in the Environmental Monitor as required by 310 CMR 10.11(1; A certification by the applicant under the penalties of perjury that the project meets the eligibility criteria set forth in 310 CMR 10.13; If the Ecological Restoration Project involves the construction, repair, replacement or expansion of infrastructure, an operation and maintenance plan to ensure that the infrastructure will continue to function as designed; If the project involves dredging of 100 cubic yards or more or dredging of any amount in an Outstanding Resource Water, a Water Quality Certification issued by the Department pursuant to 314 CMR 9.00; If the Ecological Restoration Project involves work on a stream crossing, information sufficient to make the showing required by 310 CMR 10.24(10) for work in a coastal resource area and 310 CMR 10.53(8) for work in an inland resource area; and If the Ecological Restoration Project involves work on a stream crossing, baseline photo-points that capture longitudinal views of the crossing inlet, the crossing outlet and the upstream and downstream channel beds during low flow conditions. The latitude and longitude coordinates of the photo-points shall be included in the baseline data. This project is subject to provisions of the MassDEP Stormwater Management Standards. A copy of the Stormwater Report as required by the Stormwater Management Standards per 310 CMR 10.05(6)(k)-(q) is attached. Provide information as the whether the project has the potential to impact private water supply wells including agricultural or aquacultural wells or surface water withdrawal points. noiappa.doc • rev 2/8/2018 Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Eligibility Checklists • Page 16 of 16 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Resource Protection - Wetlands WPA Form 3 – Notice of Intent Appendix A: Ecological Restoration Limited Project Checklists Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act M.G.L. c. 131, §40 Provided by MassDEP: MassDEP File Number Document Transaction Number Northampton City/Town Certification that the Ecological Restoration Project Meets the Eligibility Criteria I hereby certify under penalties of perjury that the Ecological Restoration Project Notice of Intent application does not meet the Eligibility criteria for an Ecological Restoration Order of Conditions set forth in 310 CMR 10.13, but does meet the Eligibility Criteria for a Ecological Restoration Limited Project set forth in 10.24(8) or 10.53(4) whichever is applicable. I certify that I am familiar with the information contained in the application, and that to the best of my knowledge and belief such information is true, complete, and accurate. I further certify that I possess the authority to undertake the proposed activities. Signature of Applicant or Authorized Agent Printed Name of Applicant or Authorized Agent Date The certification must be signed by the applicant; however, it may be signed by a duly authorized agent (named in Item 2) if this form is accompanied by a statement by the applicant designating the agent and agreeing to furnish upon request, supplemental information in support of the application. Jonah Keane 3/3/2020 www.essgroup.com Abutter Notification Materials 1 Alex Patterson To:GIS@northamptonma.gov Subject:RE: Abutters list From: James Thompson [mailto:gis@northamptonma.gov] Sent: Wednesday, March 04, 2020 11:51 AM To: Alex Patterson Cc: Sarah LaValley; Aleta Delisle Subject: Re: Abutters list Attached is a mail merge ready list of abutters within 100’ of property known as Parcel ID 38D-075 and Parcel ID 45 -031. You should include these IDs on all City of Northampton applications. For Conservation Commission applications notification requirements are: “all abutters at their mailing addresses shown on the most recent applicable tax list of the assessors, including owners of land directly opposite on any public or private street or way, and other property owners within 100 feet of the property line of the applicant, including any in another municipality or across a body of water.” The Northampton code reference is §337-6A. The state reference is 310 CMR 10.05 (4)a. Please contact Conservation Planner Sarah LaValley (413-587-1263) if you require additional information. James Thompson, City GIS Coordinator City of Northampton 210 Main Street Northampton, MA 01060 Voice: (413) 587-1285 ...And then came the grandest idea of all! We actually made a map of the country, on the scale of a mile to the mile!'' "Have you used it much?" I enquired. "It has never been spread out, yet," said Mein Herr: "the farmers objected: they said it would cover the whole country, and shut out the sunlight! So we now use the country itself, as its own map, and I assure you it does nearly as well. 2 -"Sylvie and Bruno Concluded" Lewis Carroll On Tue, Mar 3, 2020 at 4:38 PM Alex Patterson <apatterson@essgroup.com> wrote: Hello, I would like to request an abutters list for a Conservation Commission filing. There are two lots – Map 45, Lot 31.1 and Map 38-D, Lot 75.1. Thank you, Alex Alexander H. Patterson | Project Scientist ESS Group, Inc. 10 Hemingway Drive, 2nd Floor, East Providence, RI 02915 | p 401.330.1233 E-news | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram | www.essgroup.com This email message and any attachments are confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, please immediately reply to the sender and delete the message from your email system. Thank you. 1OBJECTID PARID TAXYR versionOWN1OWN2CAREOFADDR1ADDR2 CITYNAME STATECODE ZIP1LocusLUC LIVUNIT AssessorAcres TaxParID MB1 38C-016-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 NORTHAMPTON CITY OF210 MAIN ST CITY HALLNORTHAMPTON MA010609032.61 M_105474_895661 38C-0162 38C-022-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 AQUADRO JUSTIN R355 SOUTH STNORTHAMPTON MA01060 SOUTH ST 35510110.146 M_105726_895826 38C-0223 38C-023-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 CAHALANE KAREN M349 SOUTH STNORTHAMPTON MA01060 SOUTH ST 34910110.104 M_105743_895834 38C-0234 38C-024-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 MASSACHUSETTS ELECTRIC COMPANYC/O PROPERTY TAX DEPT 40 SYLVAN RDWALTHAM MA024511320.107 M_105756_895840 38C-0245 38C-025-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 DUPREY NICHOLAS D & BETTY LP O BOX 904EASTHAMPTON MA01027 SOUTH ST 34310420.103 M_105769_895847 38C-0256 38C-026-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 POLACHEK DANIEL W & TRACEY G95 JACKSON STNORTHAMPTON MA01060 SOUTH ST 3353400.172 M_105790_895854 38C-0267 38C-031-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 DUPREY NICHOLAS & BETTY LP O 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36210110.138 M_105711_895776 38C-04115 38C-042-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 CRAIG PAUL M10 SOUTH PARK TERRNORTHAMPTON MA01060 SOUTH PARK TERR 10 10110.156 M_105730_895759 38C-04216 38C-043-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 MATHERS NANCY E & TIMOTHY130 NORTH MAIN STFLORENCE MA01062 SOUTH PARK TERR 14 10110.209 M_105730_895735 38C-04317 38C-044-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 FIRST FINANCIAL TRUST NA TRUSTEE351 MAIN STREETWAKEFIELD MA01880 SOUTH PARK TERR 26 10110.282 M_105713_895689 38C-04418 38C-045-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 HOOSE JEANNE HENRY & DAVID P36 SOUTH PARK TERRNORTHAMPTON MA01060 SOUTH PARK TERR 36 10110.165 M_105672_895671 38C-04519 38C-046-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 HOOSE JEANNE HENRY & DAVID P36 SOUTH PARK TERRNORTHAMPTON MA010601320.882 M_105682_895652 38C-04620 38C-047-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 FLEURY HAILEY E40 SOUTH PARK TERRNORTHAMPTON MA01060 SOUTH PARK TERR 40 10110.174 M_105637_895658 38C-04721 38C-048-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 WALTON LYNNE A42 SOUTH PARK TERRNORTHAMPTON MA01060 SOUTH PARK 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UNKNOWNNORTHAMPTON MA010601320.056 M_105754_895797 38C-08430 38D-011-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 HAYNES ROBERT L & MELANIE GULOW12 REED STNORTHAMPTON MA01060 REED ST 1210111.5 M_105950_895684 38D-01131 38D-012-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 REYNOLDS MARYC/O MARY S REYNOLDS 4 REED ST UNIT 1NORTHAMPTON MA01060 REED ST 410210 M_105991_895702 38D-01232 38D-012-002 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 KUNATH RODNEY K8 REED STNORTHAMPTON MA01060 REED ST 810210 M_105991_895702 38D-01233 38D-019-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 STEWART IAN F &MARILYN E SILBERGLIED2 REED STNORTHAMPTON MA01060 REED ST 210420.488 M_106013_895711 38D-01934 38D-020-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 PIONEER DEVELOPMENT LLC32 PERKINS AVENORTHAMPTON MA01060 HAMPDEN ST 361320.189 M_106062_895706 38D-0203538D-037-0012021 2020-01-08 9:40 TALBOT THOMAS D & KATHERINE TA HALVORSEN37 HARLOW AVENORTHAMPTON MA01060 HARLOW AVE 3710112.84 M_106125_895746 38D-03736 38D-040-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 MAROTTA FRANK &CAROLYN F HICKS47 HARLOW AVENORTHAMPTON MA01060 HARLOW AVE 4710113.5 M_106191_895784 38D-04037 38D-053-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 SARGENSKI JOHN I & SHARON L51 WINTHROP STNORTHAMPTON MA01060 WINTHROP ST 5110531.6 M_106245_895833 38D-05338 38D-063-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 VONNECUT NANETTE63 REVELL AVENORTHAMPTON MA01060 REVELL AVE 6310111.5 M_106325_895824 38D-06339 38D-064-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 WHITE T MICHAEL & KATHERINE L62 REVELL AVENORTHAMPTON MA01060 REVELL AVE 6210112.5 M_106393_895847 38D-06440 38D-072-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 KULIKOWSKI IRENE25 SYLVIA HEIGHTSHADLEY MA010351322.6 M_106634_895436 38D-07241 38D-073-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 MASSACHUSETTS AUDUBON SOCIETY208 S GREAT RDLINCOLN MA017739201 M_106603_895388 38D-07342 38D-075-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 MASSACHUSETTS AUDUBON SOCIETYSOUTH GREAT ROADLINCOLN MA01773920156 M_105991_895108 38D-07543 38D-076-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 DANIELS SCOTT B & JOANIE S65 OLIVE STNORTHAMPTON MA01060 OLIVE ST 6510111.16 M_106458_895888 38D-07644 38D-078-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 KULIKOWSKI IRENE25 SYLVIA HEIGHTSHADLEY MA010351323.9 M_106541_895701 38D-07845 45 -010-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 MASSACHUSETTS AUDUBONSOCIETY INC208 SO. GREAT ROADLINCOLN MA01773920326.6 M_105272_894551 45 -01046 45 -018-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 CITY OF NORTHAMPTONCONSERVATION COMMISSION CITY HALL210 MAIN STNORTHAMPTON MA0106093214.04 M_105478_895281 45 -01847 45 -020-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 MASSACHUSETTS AUDUBON SOCIETY208 SO GREAT RDLINCOLN MA0177392015.48 M_105713_895042 45 -02048 45 -031-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 CITY OF NORTHAMPTONCONSERVATION COMMISSIONCITY HALL, 210 MAIN STNORTHAMPTON MA0106093254.3 M_106316_895151 45 -03149 45 -032-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 CITY OF NORTHAMPTONCONSERVATION COMMISSION CITY HALL210 MAIN STNORTHAMPTON MA0106093226.4 M_106721_895097 45 -03250 45 -035-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 MASSACHUSETTS AUDUBONSOCIETY208 SO. GREAT ROADLINCOLN MA017739208 M_106615_894924 45 -03551 45 -036-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 KOZIOL THOMAS A & CYNTHIA G172 EAST STEASTHAMPTON MA010273934.12 M_106551_894848 45 -03652 45 -038-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 CITY OF NORTHAMPTONCONSERVATION COMMISSIONCITY HALL, 210 MAIN STNORTHAMPTON MA010609323 M_106484_894715 45 -03853 45 -040-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 FLORIO CHARLES J3 STRAIGHTS RDHATFIELD MA01038 OLD SPRINGFIELD RD 322 1320.894 M_106419_894662 45 -04054 45 -041-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 CHARLAND NELSON F & PAUL E605 SOUTH BRIDGE STHOLYOKE MA01040 OLD SPRINGFIELD RD 336 10112 M_106383_894633 45 -04155 45 -042-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 FOURNIER FRANK N III TRUSTEEPO BOX 208EASTHAMPTON MA01027 OLD SPRINGFIELD RD 348 10110.639 M_106347_894607 45 -04256 45 -043-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 DUDA MATHIAS HENRY157 PISGAH RDHUNTINGTON MA010503930.64 M_106302_894573 45 -04357 45 -044-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 DUDA MATHIAS HENRY157 PISGAH RDHUNTINGTON MA01050 OLD SPRINGFIELD RD 384 3841.5 M_106208_894492 45 -04458 45 -045-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 MASSACHUSETTS AUDUBON SOCIETY208 SO. GREAT ROADLINCOLN MA0177392034.25 M_105970_894597 45 -04559 45 -070-001 2021 2020-01-08 9:40 DUDA MATHIAS HENRY157 PISGAH RDHUNTINGTON MA010503930.29 M_106324_894609 45 -070Abutters List.xls Notification to Abutters Under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, and the Northampton Wetlands Ordinance In accordance with the second paragraph of the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 131, Section 40, you are hereby notified of the following: The name of the applicant is: Mass Audubon. The applicant has filed a Notice of Intent with the Northampton Conservation Commission seeking permission to remove, fill, dredge or alter an Area Subject to protection Under the Wetlands Protection Act (General Laws Chapter 131, Section 40) and the Northampton Wetlands Protection Ordinance (Chapter 337). The work proposed is: Restoration of approximately 13 acres of former floodplain forest within the floodplain of the Connecticut River. The address of the lot where the activity is proposed is 0 Old Springfield Road. The Map and Lot is 45-31.1 and 38D-75.1. Copies of the Notice of Intent may be examined at the Office of Planning and Sustainability, 210 Main Street, Room 11, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday, and online at http://northamptonma.gov/948/Public-File-Cabinet, permit files are sorted by Map and Lot. Copies of the Notice of Intent and more information may be obtained from either (check one) the applicant ____, or the applicant's representative _X_, by calling this telephone number (401) 330-1208 between the hours of 9:00 am and 5:00 pm on the following days of the week: Monday through Friday. Information regarding the date, time, and place of the public hearing may be obtained from the Office of Planning and Sustainability by calling the Conservation Agent at (413) 587- 1263. Conservation Commission agendas are also posted at http://northamptonma.gov/AgendaCenter/Conservation-Commission-7 NOTE: Notice of the public hearing, including its date, time, and place, will be published seven days in advance of the hearing in the Daily Hampshire Gazette, and will be posted in a ‘Public Notice’ sign on the subject property. NOTE: Notice of the public hearing, including its date, time, and place, will be posted in the Northampton City Hall not less than forty-eight (48) hours in advance. NOTE: You also may contact the nearest Department of Environmental Protection Regional Office for more information about this application or the Wetlands Protection Act. To contact DEP, call the Western Region at (413) 784-1100. www.essgroup.com Project Narrative 1.0 INTRODUCTION As one of the largest private conservation landowners in the region, Mass Audubon protects over 38,000 acres of land in Massachusetts, including large properties that support a wide range of wildlife. The Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, encompassing over 720 acres in Northampton and Easthampton, is Mass Audubon’s flagship site for its Connecticut River Valley operations. Much of Arcadia’s land area is within the floodplain of the Mill River and the 1840 oxbow of the Connecticut River, and Mass Audubon manages large portion of this floodplain as open habitats, including young forest, grasslands, forb- dominated fields, and cropland. The remainder of the floodplain is comprised of extensive wetlands and exemplary floodplain forest natural communities. In partnership with the City of Northampton, the Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration (DER), and others, Mass Audubon proposes to restore approximately 13.25 acres of former agricultural land to floodplain forest in order to support wildlife habitat diversity and other ecological functions of floodplain forest (Figure 1). Table 1.Limiting Factors, Proposed Responses, and Desired Outcomes of the Project Limiting Factor Proposed Response(s) Desired Outcome 1. Presence of weedy/agricultural plants species which inhibit natural recruitment of native floodplain species • Mowing, disking, and York raking • Reduced density of weedy/agricultural plants for the benefit of planted woody floodplain forest species 2. Presence of invasive plant species which impair habitat for native animal species • Control invasive species (mechanical, chemical, and biological controls) • Invasive species at low densities or absent from site for the benefit of wildlife habitat 3. Habitat fragmentation of floodplain forest by historical clearing for agricultural use • Planting native woody floodplain forest species • Restoration of historical floodplain forest community to reduce effects of existing habitat fragmentation 4. Local flooding and associated property damage during high water events • Planting native woody floodplain forest species • Enhanced capacity of existing floodplain forest to attenuate flood waters 5. Biological simplification • Planting diverse array of native woody floodplain forest species • Diverse, resilient, and self-sustaining floodplain forest community • Control invasive species • Rare, threatened, and endangered species on the site Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project – Notice of Intent March 2020 2 2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION The proposed restoration plan has been developed through coordination and consultation between project partners including Mass Audubon, the City of Northampton, and DER. A detailed description of the specific management actions that will be undertaken as part of the restoration plan is provided in Attachment A. In general, the restoration work will entail site preparation (including ground preparation and initial invasive species management), planting native saplings and shrubs in accordance with the restoration planting plan, installation of herbivory protection and deer exclusion fencing, and post- restoration monitoring and management. Please see Attachment A for details related to each phase of the restoration project. 3.0 EXISTING CONDITIONS The project area consists of approximately 13.25 acres of former floodplain forest that was cleared and used for agricultural production likely beginning in the early 1800s. Following the abandonment of the fields for agricultural use, they have been maintained in an early successional state through regular mowing which limits the growth of woody vegetation. Due to the disturbed nature of the project area, several non-native, invasive species are now found within and along the edges of the fields. Plant species observed growing within and along the edges of the fields include: wild madder, sensitive fern, poison ivy, common milkweed, swamp milkweed, goldenrod, dandelion, red clover, barnyard grass, timothy, Queen Anne’s lace, evening primrose, broomgrass, soft rush, reed canary grass, foxtail, Japanese knotweed, multiflora rose, common buckthorn, silky dogwood, red osier dogwood, Morrow’s honeysuckle, Russian olive, Asiatic bittersweet, grape, domestic apple, speckled alder, hop hornbeam, black cherry, arrowwood viburnum, red oak, pin oak, red maple, silver maple, green ash, gray birch, eastern cottonwood, and black locust. Soils within the project area consist primarily of two soil map units: Hadley silt loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes, and Limerick silt loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes. Hadley silt loam is a well-drained, floodplain soil with a depth to water table of about 48 to 72 inches and a depth to restrictive feature of more than 80 inches. Limerick silt loam is a poorly-drained soil that forms on alluvial flats, has a depth to water table of about 0 to 18 inches, and a depth to restrictive feature of more than 80 inches. 3.1 Wetland Resource Areas Wetland resource areas within and in the vicinity of the project area were determined by a review of publicly-available data from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and a site visit by ESS wetland scientists on May 8, 2019. Two areas subject to the protection of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (WPA) are found within the project area: bordering vegetation wetland (BVW) and bordering land subject to flooding (BLSF) (Figure 2). Other resource areas, including inland bank and land under water, are located in the vicinity of the project area but outside the project’s limit of work. 3.1.1 Bordering Vegetated Wetland BVW is defined at 310 CMR 10.55 as freshwater wetlands that border creeks, rivers, streams, and ponds, and include wet meadows, bogs, marshes, and swamps. BVW provides habitat for a diverse array of plant and animal species and functions to retain stormwater and attenuate pollutants. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project – Notice of Intent March 2020 3 DEP wetland maps indicate that the entirety of the forested habitat surrounding the project area is BVW, specifically deciduous wooded swamp. Field observations also indicate that portions of the project area also meet the definition of BVW. 3.1.2 Bordering Land Subject to Flooding Per 310 CMR 10.57, BLSF is defined as an area with low, flat topography adjacent to and inundated by flood waters rising from creeks, rivers, streams, ponds, or lakes. BLSF extends from the banks of these waterways and waterbodies; where a BVW occurs, it extends from the upper limit of the BVW. The limit of Bordering Land Subject to Flooding (BLSF) is the lateral extent of the 100-year floodplain, which begins up-gradient of the top of the Inland Bank. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for the project vicinity was reviewed to determine whether any portions of the site are BLSF. According to the FIRM which covers the project area (Map Number 2501670002A, Effective Date: April 3, 1978), the entirety of the project area and vicinity are located within Flood Zone AE (the 100-year floodplain). 3.2 State-listed Species Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) databases were reviewed to determine whether any habitats of state-listed species are currently mapped in the vicinity of the project area. This review indicated the presence of a Priority Habitat of Rare Specie (PH 2064) on the property (Figure 3). A portion of Field 1 and the entirety of Fields 2 through 5 are located within this Priority Habitat Area. 3.3 Historical and Archaeological Resources ESS reviewed the Massachusetts Historical Commission’s (MHC) online MACRIS database to determine whether any historical or archaeological resources were located within or in the vicinity of the project area. Based on this review, there are no inventoried historic places or districts located within the project area. The closest inventoried properties are located along South Street to the north of the project area. 4.0 IMPACT ASSESSMENT 4.1 Wetland Resource Areas The goal of the proposed project is to restore approximately 13.25 acres of former floodplain forest which historically occurred in the project area. This proposed restoration will enhance the capacity of the BVW and BLSF resource areas present on the site to provide wildlife habitat, flood control, and storm damage prevention, which are interests identified in the WPA, by: • reducing the density of weedy, agricultural plant species (inhibiting the natural recruitment of native floodplain forest species); • controlling non-native plant species; • planting species with high wildlife food value; • reducing the negative effects of habitat fragmentation; • establishing dense woody stems characteristic of a floodplain forest community; and Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project – Notice of Intent March 2020 4 • restoring a structurally diverse, resilient, and self-sustaining floodplain forest community. As the project does not involve grading or other earth-moving activities, there will be no change in existing ground surface elevations or slopes in the project area. The configuration of wetland resource areas at the site will not change, and the project will not result in any fill in or loss of the BVW or BLSF resource areas. As no earth-moving activities are proposed, there is no risk of erosion or sedimentation into wetlands adjacent to the project area. 4.2 State-listed Species Mass Audubon has coordinated closely with NHESP regarding the presence of state-listed species in the vicinity of the project area, and species-specific surveys of the project area and vicinity have been conducted. The restoration plan has been designed to avoid areas with known state-listed species present. Therefore, the proposed project is not anticipated to negatively impact state-listed species at the site. 4.3 Historical and Archaeological Resources As discussed in Section 3.3, there are no known historic or archaeological resources within or in the vicinity of the project area. Therefore, the proposed project is not expected to result in any positive or negative impacts to these resources. 5.0 IMPACT AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION 5.1 Wetland Resource Areas As discussed in Section 4.1, the proposed restoration project will benefit the wetland resource areas within the project area by restoring the native vegetative community which existing there prior to historic clearing. The use of erosion and sedimentation controls along the perimeter of the project area will not be needed as grading and other earth-moving activities are not proposed as part of this restoration project. To avoid unnecessary soil disturbance within the BVW, vehicle use in this resource area will be restricted during the plant installation phase of the project. Herbicide application will be conducted only by properly trained, and as required, licensed individuals and in accordance with the product label. 5.2 State-listed Species As discussed in Section 4.2, the proposed project is not expected to result in any impacts to state-listed species in the vicinity of the project area. Therefore, no avoidance or minimization measures specific to these resources are proposed. 5.3 Historical and Archaeological Resources As discussed in Section 4.3, the proposed project is not expected to result in any impacts to historic or archaeological resources. Therefore, no avoidance or minimization measures specific to these resources are proposed. 6.0 REGULATORY COMPLIANCE 6.1 Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act The Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (WPA) (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40) and its implementing regulations (310 CMR 10.00) provide for the protection of wetland resource areas and the public benefits provided by these areas as identified by the Act. The proposed project is subject to the WPA and its implementing regulations because it will take place within one or more areas subject to protection under Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project – Notice of Intent March 2020 5 the WPA. The proposed project is eligible to be reviewed under the WPA as an Ecological Restoration Limited Project pursuant to 310 CMR 10.53(4)(e)(5): Other Restoration Projects because the project’s primary purpose is to restore the natural capacity of a wetland resource area to protect and sustain the interests identified in the WPA, including protection of wildlife habitat, flood control, and storm damage prevention. 6.1.1 Ecological Restoration Limited Project Provisions As stated above, the proposed project is eligible to be reviewed under the WPA as an Ecological Restoration Limited Project pursuant to 310 CMR 10.53(4)(e)(5): Other Restoration Projects because the project’s primary purpose is to restore the natural capacity of a wetland resource area to protect and sustain the interests identified in the WPA, including protection of wildlife habitat, flood control, and storm damage prevention. Projects seeking review as Ecological Restoration Limited Projects must comply with the provisions in 310 CMR 10.53(4)(a). The project’s compliance with these provisions is discussed below. 310 CMR 10.53(4)(a)(1): The Issuing Authority determines that the project is an Ecological Restoration Project as defined in 310 CMR 10.04. The term “Ecological Restoration Project” is defined in 310 CMR 10.04 as “a project whose primary purpose is to restore or otherwise improve the natural capacity of a Resource Area(s) to protect and sustain the interests identified in M.G.L. c. 131, § 40, when such interests have been degraded or destroyed by anthropogenic influences.” The goal of the project is to restore a floodplain forest habitat which was historically cleared and used for agricultural production. Restoration of the floodplain forest as proposed will restore the natural capacity of the resource areas within the project area (BLSF and BVW) to protect and sustain the interested identified in the WPA, including protection of wildlife habitat, flood control, and storm damage prevention. 310 CMR 10.53(4)(a)(2): If the project will impact an area located within estimated habitat which is indicated on the most recent Estimated Habitat Map of State-listed Rare Wetlands Wildlife published by the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (Program), the applicant has obtained a preliminary written determination from the Program in accordance with 310 CMR 10.11(2) that the project will not have any adverse long-term and short-term effects on specified habitat sites of Rare Species, or the project will be carried out in accordance with a habitat management plan that has been approved in writing by the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program and submitted with the Notice of Intent. The proposed project is not located within an estimated habitat area. 310 CMR 10.53(4)(a)(3): The applicant demonstrates that the project will be carried out in accordance with any time of year restrictions or other conditions recommended by the Division of Marine Fisheries for coastal waters and the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife in accordance with 310 CMR 10.11(3). The proposed project is not located in coastal waters (310 CMR 10.11(3)) and will not involve silt- generating, in water work that will impact a non-tidal perennial river or stream (310 CMR 10.11(5)). Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project – Notice of Intent March 2020 6 310 CMR 10.53(4)(a)(4): If the project involves the dredging of 100 cubic yards of sediment or more or dredging of any amount in an Outstanding Resource Water, the applicant has applied for or obtained a Water Quality Certification by the Department. The project does not involve dredging. 310 CMR 10.53(4)(a)(5): The project complies with all applicable provisions of 310 CMR 10.53(1), (2), (7), and (8). 310 CMR 10.53(1) states: “If the Issuing Authority determines that a Resource Area is significant to an interest identified in M.G.L. c. 131, § 40 for which no presumption is stated in the Preamble to the applicable section, the Issuing Authority shall impose such conditions as are necessary to contribute to the protection of such interests. For work in the Buffer Zone subject to review under 310 CMR 10.02(2)(b)3., the Issuing Authority shall impose conditions to protect the interests of the Act identified for the adjacent Resource Area. The potential for adverse impacts to Resource Areas from work in the Buffer Zone may increase with the extent of the work and the proximity to the Resource Area. The Issuing Authority may consider the characteristics of the Buffer Zone, such as the presence of steep slopes that may increase the potential for adverse impacts on Resource Areas. Conditions may include limitations on the scope and location of work in the Buffer Zone as necessary to avoid alteration of Resource Areas. The Issuing Authority may require erosion and sedimentation controls during construction, a clear limit of work, and the preservation of natural vegetation adjacent to the Resource Area and/or other measures commensurate with the scope and location of the work within the Buffer Zone to protect the interests of M.G.L. c. 131, § 40. Where a Buffer Zone has already been developed, the Issuing Authority may consider the extent of existing development in its review of subsequent proposed work and, where prior development is extensive, may consider measures such as the restoration of natural vegetation adjacent to a Resource Area to protect the interest of M.G.L. c. 131, § 40. The purpose of preconstruction review of work in the Buffer Zone is to ensure that adjacent Resource Areas are not adversely affected during or after completion of the work.” The Applicant will comply with all provisions imposed on the project by the Issuing Authority. 310 CMR 10.53(2) states: “When the site of a proposed project is subject to a Restriction Order which has been duly recorded under the provisions of M.G.L. c. 131, § 40A, such a project shall conform to both the provisions contained in that Order and 310 CMR 10.51 through 10.60.” The project site is not subject to a Wetlands Restriction Order. 310 CMR 10.53(7) states: “The Notice of Intent for any projects involving the construction, repair, replacement or expansion of public or private infrastructure shall include an operation and maintenance plan to ensure that the infrastructure will continue to function as designed. Implementation of the operation and maintenance plan as approved by the Issuing Authority shall be a continuing condition that shall be set forth in the Order of Conditions and the Certificate of Compliance.” The proposed project does not involve the construction, repair, replacement, or expansion of public or private infrastructure. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project – Notice of Intent March 2020 7 310 CMR 10.53(8) states: “Any person proposing the replacement of an existing stream crossing shall demonstrate to the Issuing Authority that the impacts of the crossing have been avoided where possible, and when not possible have been minimized and that mitigation measures have been provided to contribute to the protection of the interests identified in M.G.L. c. 131, § 40.” The project does not involve stream crossings. 6.1.2 Bordering Vegetated Wetlands Performance standards for BVW are provided in 310 CMR 10.55(4). The primary performance standard related to work in BVW is that “any proposed work in a Bordering Vegetated Wetland shall not destroy or otherwise impair any portion of said area” (310 CMR 10.55(4)(a)). The sapling and shrub planting and associated ground preparation and invasive species management work proposed within the BVW will not destroy or otherwise impair the resource area, but rather will serve to enhance the capacity of the resource area to provide for the interested identified in the WPA. 6.1.3 Bordering Land Subject to Flooding Performance standards for BLSF are provided in 310 CMR 10.57(4)(a). Performance standards related to work in BLSF address the potential for work to 1) cause an increase in the horizontal extent and level of flood waters during peak flows, 2) restrict flows so as to cause an increase in flood stage or velocity, and 3) impair the capacity of the resource area to provide important wildlife habitat functions. The sapling and shrub planting and associated ground preparation and invasive species management work proposed within the BLSF will not result in the placement of any fill in the resource area that could cause an increase in the horizontal extent and level of flood waters during peak flows or restrict flows so as to cause an increase in flood stage or velocity. In addition, the proposed restoration work will enhance the capacity of the BLSF resource area to provide important wildlife habitat functions, which are currently impaired due to the degraded nature of the project area. 6.2 Northampton Wetlands Ordinance The Northampton Wetlands Ordinance (Chapter 337 of the Code of Ordinances) provides for the protection of wetland resource areas and associated interests at the municipal level. As discussed previously, the proposed restoration project will provide a positive impact to the BVW and BLSF resource areas within the project area by restoring the native vegetative community which existed there prior to historic clearing. The project meets the definition of an Ecological Restoration Limited Project under the WPA as discussed in Section 6.1.1. The Northampton Wetlands Ordinance also provides an exemption for work in resource areas for ecological restoration projects (§337-10(E)(2)(d)). 6.3 Massachusetts Endangered Species Act The Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) (M.G.L. c. 131A) and its implementing regulations (321 CMR 10.00) provides for the protection of endangered, threatened, and special concern species and their habitats in Massachusetts. Projects located in Priority Habitat must submit a MESA Project Review Checklist to NHESP describing the proposed project and its potential impacts to state-listed species and their habitats. Accordingly, the Applicant has submitted a MESA Project Review Checklist to NHESP concurrently with the submission of this NOI. www.essgroup.com Figures Source: 1) Project Area, Mass Audubon, 2019; 2) Topographic Quadrangle, USGS Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project Northampton, MassachusettsPath: J:\M393-000 Massachusetts Audubon Society- Floodplain Forest Restoration Project\04 GRAPHICS\GIS\MXD\NOI Figures\Figure 1 - Project Locus.mxdProject Locus Figure 1Drawing Date: 6/20/2019 Author: epvisitor© 2019 ESS Group, Inc.!° Project Area 1 inch = 2,000 feet 0 2,000 4,0001,000 Feet AREA 1 AREA 2 AREA 3 AREA 4 AREA 5 Source: 1) Project Area, Mass Audubon, 2019; 2) Aerial Photograph, ESS 2019; 3) Wetland Resource Areas, ESS 2019 Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project Northampton, MassachusettsPath: J:\M393-000 Massachusetts Audubon Society- Floodplain Forest Restoration Project\04 GRAPHICS\GIS\MXD\NOI Figures\Figure 2 - Wetland Resource Areas.mxdWetland Resource Areas Figure 2Drawing Date: 6/20/2019 Author: epvisitor© 2019 ESS Group, Inc.!° 1 inch = 250 feet 0 250 500125Feet Legend Planting Area Bordering Vegetated Wetland 100-foot Buffer Zone Bordering Land Subject to Flooding PRIORITY HABITAT OF RARE SPECIES (PH 2064) AREA 1 Source: 1) Project Area, Mass Audubon, 2019; 2) Aerial Photography, ESS, 2019 3) NHESP Data, MassGIS, 2018 Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project Northampton, MassachusettsPath: J:\M393-000 Massachusetts Audubon Society- Floodplain Forest Restoration Project\04 GRAPHICS\GIS\MXD\NOI Figures\Figure 3 - NHESP.mxdNatural Heritage Data Figure 3Drawing Date: 6/20/2019 Author: epvisitor© 2019 ESS Group, Inc.!° 1 inch = 250 feet 0 250 500125Feet AREA 3 AREA 5 AREA 4 AREA 2 www.essgroup.com Attachment A Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan www.essgroup.com Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary Northampton, Massachusetts PREPARED FOR: Mass Audubon 127 Combs Road Easthampton, Massachusetts 01027 PREPARED BY: ESS Group, Inc. 10 Hemingway Drive, 2nd Floor East Providence, Rhode Island 02915 ESS Project No. M393-000 June 2019 © 2019 ESS Group, Inc. – This document or any part may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, microfilming, and recording without the express written consent of ESS Group, Inc. All rights reserved. TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION PAGE 1.0 INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................................... 1 1.1 Project Background .......................................................................................................................... 1 1.2 Project Goals .................................................................................................................................... 2 1.3 Project Timeline ................................................................................................................................ 2 2.0 SITE DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................................... 3 3.0 SITE PREPARATION ............................................................................................................................. 5 3.1 Ground Preparation .......................................................................................................................... 5 3.2 Invasive Species Management......................................................................................................... 5 4.0 PLANTING PLAN .................................................................................................................................... 6 4.1 Species Selection ............................................................................................................................. 6 4.2 Planting Zones .................................................................................................................................. 8 5.0 PLANT STOCK AND INSTALLATION SPECIFICATIONS ..................................................................... 8 5.1 General Planting Specifications ....................................................................................................... 8 5.2 Plant Stock Specifications ................................................................................................................ 9 5.3 Plant Installation Specifications ........................................................................................................ 9 6.0 HERBIVORY PROTECTION .................................................................................................................. 9 7.0 DEER BROWSE PROTECTION .......................................................................................................... 11 7.1 Plant Selection ................................................................................................................................ 11 7.2 Deer Exclusion Fencing .................................................................................................................. 11 8.0 POST-RESTORATION MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT ............................................................. 12 8.1 Annual Monitoring ........................................................................................................................... 12 8.2 Maintenance Following Flooding Events ........................................................................................ 12 8.3 Invasive Species Management....................................................................................................... 12 8.4 Wildlife Habitat Enhancement ........................................................................................................ 15 8.5 Education ........................................................................................................................................ 15 TABLES Table 1 Limiting Factors, Proposed Responses, and Desired Outcomes of the Project Table 2 Restoration Project Timeline Table 3 Planting Schedule and Quantities Table 4 Invasive Species Management Strategies FIGURES Figure 1 Project Locus Figure 2 Approximate Limits of Land Area Flooded 1.2% of the Year ATTACHMENTS Attachment A Restoration Plan Set 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Project Background As one of the largest private conservation landowners in the region, Mass Audubon protects over 38,000 acres of land in Massachusetts, including large properties that support a wide range of wildlife. The Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, encompassing over 720 acres in Northampton and Easthampton, is Mass Audubon’s flagship site for its Connecticut River Valley operations. Much of Arcadia’s land area is within the floodplain of the Mill River and the 1840 oxbow of the Connecticut River, and Mass Audubon manages large portion of this floodplain as open habitats, including young forest, grasslands, forb- dominated fields, and cropland. The remainder of the floodplain is comprised of extensive wetlands and exemplary floodplain forest natural communities. In partnership with the Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration (DER), the City of Northampton, and others, Mass Audubon proposes to restore approximately 13.25 acres of former agricultural land to floodplain forest in order to support wildlife habitat diversity and other ecological functions of floodplain forest (Figure 1). Table 1. Limiting Factors, Proposed Responses, and Desired Outcomes of the Project Limiting Factor Proposed Response(s) Desired Outcome 1. Presence of weedy/agricultural plants species which inhibit natural recruitment of native floodplain species • Mowing, disking, and York raking • Reduced density of weedy/agricultural plants for the benefit of planted woody floodplain forest species 2. Presence of invasive plant species which impair habitat for native animal species • Control invasive species (mechanical, chemical, and biological controls) • Invasive species at low densities or absent from site for the benefit of wildlife habitat 3. Habitat fragmentation of floodplain forest by historical clearing for agricultural use • Planting native woody floodplain forest species • Restoration of historical floodplain forest community to reduce effects of existing habitat fragmentation Former floodplain forest within restoration area, looking south toward Mt. Holyoke. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan June 2019 2 Limiting Factor Proposed Response(s) Desired Outcome 4. Local flooding and associated property damage during high water events • Planting native woody floodplain forest species • Enhanced capacity of existing floodplain forest to attenuate flood waters 5. Biological simplification • Planting diverse array of native woody floodplain forest species • Diverse, resilient, and self-sustaining floodplain forest community • Control invasive species • Rare, threatened, and endangered species on the site 1.2 Project Goals The goal of this restoration project is to restore approximately 13.25 acres of former floodplain forest in the floodplain of the Connecticut River at Mass Audubon’s Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary. The restoration of this uncommon and important natural community type will provide habitat for a diverse array of native wildlife and restore other ecological functions provided by floodplain forest communities. This goal will be achieved primarily through the re-vegetation of the restoration area with native floodplain forest trees. Additional measures to ensure the success of the restoration project before, during, and after planting will also be implemented, including site preparation activities, installation of herbivory protection treatments and deer exclusion fencing, invasive species management, and long-term monitoring and maintenance. 1.3 Project Timeline Implementation of the restoration project will proceed using a phased approach, with restoration of Area 1 commencing in 2020 and restoration of Areas 2 through 5 commencing in 2021 (see Attachment A). By using a phased approach, Mass Audubon and project partners will have the opportunity to take advantage of the experience gained during the restoration of Area 1 and apply lessons learned to the restoration of the other four areas. Given the high number of plants required for the restoration plan, a phased approach is also expected to improve the availability of plantings from local nurseries. Initial site preparation activities including mowing, disking, thatch removal, and invasive species management may commence in the fall of 2019 and may be conducted either solely in Area 1 or in all five areas. Additional site preparation will be conducted in the spring of 2020, immediately prior to planting. Installation of deer exclusion fencing and planting of sapling and shrubs will commence immediately after floodwaters have receded from the project area; these activities are expected to take one to two weeks to complete. Initial monitoring of Area 1 will likely take place in the late summer of 2020; additional invasive species management actions may take place throughout the growing season. Site preparation activities in Areas 2 through 5 will begin in the fall of 2020. Restoration activities in these areas will follow a similar schedule as activities in Area 1. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan June 2019 3 Table 2. Restoration Project Timeline Season Restoration Activities Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Area 5 Fall 2019 Ground preparation - mowing/disking/thatch removal • ○ ○ ○ ○ Invasive species management • ○ ○ ○ ○ Spring 2020 Ground preparation - mowing/disking/thatch removal • ○ ○ ○ ○ Invasive species management • ○ ○ ○ ○ Deer exclusion fence installation • Sapling and shrub planting • Herbivory protection installation • Summer 2020 Restoration area monitoring • Invasive species management • ○ ○ ○ ○ Fall 2020 Invasive species management • • • • • Mowing • • • • • Disking/thatch removal • • • • Spring 2021 Mowing • • • • • Disking/thatch removal • • • • Invasive species management • • • • • Deer exclusion fence installation • Sapling and shrub planting • • • • Herbivory protection installation • • • • Summer 2020 Restoration area monitoring • • • • • Invasive species management • • • • • Fall 2020 Invasive species management • • • • • Mowing • • • • • • = required activity, ○ = optional activity 2.0 SITE DESCRIPTION The project area consists of five separate fields totaling approximately 13.25 acres in size. From west to east, the fields are designated as Areas 1 through 5. At approximately 8.5 acres, Area 1 is by far the largest of the five areas and accounts for about two-thirds of the restoration area. The remaining one third of the restoration area is made up of Areas 2 (1.0 acres), 3 (0.6 acres), 4 (0.5 acres), and 5 (2.6 acres). The restoration area is a former floodplain forest that was cleared and used for agricultural production likely beginning in the early 1800s. Following the abandonment of the fields for agricultural use, they have been maintained in an early successional state through regular mowing which limits the growth of woody vegetation. Due to the disturbed nature of the project area, several non-native, invasive species are now found within and along the edges of the fields. Plant species observed growing within and along the edges of the fields include: wild madder (Rubia peregrina), sensitive fern (Onoclea sensibilis), poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata), goldenrod (Solidago sp.), common dandelion Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan June 2019 4 (Taraxacum officinale), red clover (Trifolium pratense), barnyard grass (Echinochloa sp.), timothy (Phleum pratense), Queen Anne’s lace (Daucus carota), evening primrose (Oenothera biennis), soft rush (Juncus effusus), reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea), foxtail (Setaria sp.), Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum), multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora), common buckthorn (Rhamnus frangula), silky dogwood (Cornus amomum), red osier dogwood (Cornus sericea), Morrow’s honeysuckle (Lonicera morrowii), Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia), Asiatic bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus), grape (Vitis sp.), domestic apple (Malus sp.), speckled alder (Alnus incana), hop hornbeam (Ostrya virginiana), black cherry (Prunus serotina), arrowwood viburnum (Virburnum dentatum), red oak (Quercus rubra), pin oak (Quercus palustris), red maple (Acer rubrum), silver maple (Acer saccharinum), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), gray birch (Betula populifolia), eastern cottonwood (Populus deltoides), and black locust (Robinia pseudoacadia). Soils within the project area consist primarily of two soil map units: Hadley silt loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes, and Limerick silt loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes. Hadley silt loam is a well-drained, floodplain soil with a depth to water table of about 48 to 72 inches and a depth to restrictive feature of more than 80 inches. Limerick silt loam is a poorly-drained soil that forms on alluvial flats, has a depth to water table of about 0 to 18 inches, and a depth to restrictive feature of more than 80 inches. All soils within the planting area are considered rich soils with a pH range of 5.9 to 6.3. In a comprehensive study of flooding regimes within Connecticut River floodplain forests, Marks et al. (2014)1 reported flood-dependent tree species such as silver maple, green ash, and eastern cottonwood dominate at elevations that are flooded between 1.2% of the year (4.5 d/y) and 26% of the year (95 d/y). In reviewing open access HECRAS data2 used in this study, the water surface elevation associated with the upper limit of floodplain tree dominance was estimated. The resulting water surface elevation of 34.0meters (m) is portrayed graphically in plan view in Figure 2. From this analysis, it is clear that the fields proposed for restoration are within the upper limits of where a flood-dependent forest would be anticipated in contrast to upland tress such as sugar maple (Acer saccharum) and black cherry. However, this position within the high floodplain suggests the restoration area is more susceptible to invasive species than lower floodplain forest habitats which would experience longer-duration floods. Consequently, invasive species management is an important component of this restoration plan. The potential for wildlife damage to planted saplings is also a primary consideration. Based on recent observations by Mass Audubon staff, there is a margin of beaver (Castor canadensis)- 1 Marks, C.O., K.H. Nislow, and F.J. Magilligan. 2014. Quantifying flooding regime in floodplain forests to guide river restoration. journal Elementa: Science of the Anthropocene. 2 HECRAS data accessed at https://datadryad.org/resource/doi:10.5061/dryad.jn3rr Existing floodplain forest along the perimeter of Area 1. Note the distinctive high water mark on trees at the edge of the field. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan June 2019 5 cut saplings and shrubs along the wetland fingers within the restoration area. Potential girdling by meadow vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus) and other small mammals, as well as browse damage from white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) has also been considered. The results of pilot vegetation establishment tests within a restoration site as reported by Marks (2013)3 serves as a guide to inform management decisions for planting and seedbed preparation. 3.0 SITE PREPARATION Since the cessation of agricultural use of the project site, a dense groundcover of grasses and forbs has revegetated the restoration area and is maintained by annual mowing. Prior to planting it will be important to prepare the restoration area to create a hospitable environment for nursey-grown plant stock and to enhance growth and survivorship. Site preparation activities fall into two primary categories: ground preparation and invasive species management. These are discussed in the following sections. 3.1 Ground Preparation Ground surface preparation through mowing, disking, and York raking will reduce herbaceous plant cover in the restoration areas, creating a ground surface condition more conducive to plant installation, reducing competition for light and nutrients, and reducing cover for small rodents which may damage plantings. Mass Audubon already mows the restoration fields at least on an annual basis; the frequency of mowing will be increased during the fall and spring immediately preceding planting to limit the growth of new herbaceous plant biomass in these areas. The fields will continue to be mowed multiple times for several growing seasons following planting to control herbaceous plant growth for the benefit of woody plantings. A York rake may also be used to remove thatch from the fields to improve growing conditions for plantings and natural recruitment. The fields will also be disked in the spring immediately prior to planting to reduce competition on planted saplings and shrubs. A bare soil seedbed condition may enhance natural recruitment of native floodplain forest seedlings. All ground preparation work will be conducted using Mass Audubon staff and equipment. 3.2 Invasive Species Management Long-term management of invasive plant species in and around the restoration area will be a critical component of the restoration plan and is discussed in detail in Section 8.3. Selective treatment of invasive species will also be conducted within the restoration fields prior to planting. Pre-planting invasive species control will target species growing within the fields, particularly Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea), Asiatic bittersweet, and black locust (the latter two species are 3 Marks, C.O. 2013. Floodplain Restoration Techniques: Experimental Results. Restoration fields will be mowed, disked, and/or York raked to prepare the ground surface prior to planting. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan June 2019 6 primarily of concern in Field 5, where both are abundant). Management of these and other invasive species within the restoration fields will be conducted using the methods described in Section 8.3. Treatment of Canada thistle may require the use of a truck-mounted boom sprayer. The use of broadcast herbicides for general control of both native and invasive species is not proposed as part of this restoration plan. 4.0 PLANTING PLAN 4.1 Species Selection The planting plan for this restoration project was carefully developed to replicate the floodplain forest community which formerly existed at the site. The fundamental goal of the planting plan is to provide a diverse array of native species which are adapted to the unique conditions found in floodplain forests - namely, a period of annual flooding in the early spring which may last up to several weeks. With this goal in mind, the species list for this planting plan was largely developed to complement the vegetative community in the existing floodplain forest adjacent to the planting area. While the composition of the existing floodplain forest adjacent to the planting area formed the basis of the species list for this planting plan, the following additional considerations also influenced the plan: • While shrubs are not typically a significant component of floodplain forests, shrubs have been included in this planting plan to provide additional habitat complexity, reduce light competition by herbaceous species, and provide food for migratory songbirds during the restoration establishment period. • While ash (Fraxinus sp.) is a typical component of floodplain forest canopy and was documented at the project site, this species is not included in the planting plan because planted ash trees may die before reaching maturity due to damage by the emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis) beetle. • Likewise, American elms (Ulmus americana), which are often found in the canopy of floodplain forests, are susceptible to Dutch elm disease, which historically has devastated the population of this species throughout its range. Therefore, the planting plan includes 50 disease-tolerant American elm cultivars to be provided by The Nature Conservancy (TNC). • A relatively high number of mast-producing species such as pin oak (Quercus palustris), swamp white oak (Quercus bicolor), and shagbark hickory (Carya ovata) have been included to provide an additional wildlife food source. Shagbark hickories are also important roost trees for several species of bats, which in turn are both important for forest health and declining due to white-nose syndrome. Existing floodplain forest adjacent to the restoration area. Note the natural lack of shrubs in the understory. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan June 2019 7 • Species such as swamp white oak, sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua), and swamp cottonwood (Populus heterophylla) which are more abundant in the warmer climates of the southern United States have been included in the planting plan for climate change adaptation. • A relatively high number of spicebush (Lindera benzoin) have been included as this species is not as frequently browsed by deer as other shrubs (see Section 7.1). The overall planting schedule and quantities are provided in Table 3. Table 3. Planting Schedule and Quantities Common Name Scientific Name Symbol Wetland Indicator Status Zone Quantity Size Container Size Root Spacing Trees Silver maple Acer saccharinum AS FACW Low/Middle 605 3-5' #1 Container 16' OC Pin oak Quercus palustris QP FACW Low/Middle 470 3-5' #1 Container 16' OC Eastern cottonwood Populus deltoides PD FAC Low/Middle/High 388 3-5' #1 Container 16' OC Swamp white oak Quercus bicolor QB FACW Low/Middle 315 3-5' #1 Container 16' OC Shagbark hickory Carya ovata CO FACU High 162 3-5' #1 Container 16' OC American basswood Tilia americana TA FACU High 116 3-5' #1 Container 16' OC American sycamore Platanus occidentalis PO FACW Middle 113 3-5' #1 Container 16' OC Black gum Nyssa sylvatica NS FAC Middle/High 91 3-5' #1 Container 16' OC Sweet gum Liquidambar styraciflua LS FAC Middle/High 82 3-5' #1 Container 16' OC Swamp cottonwood Populus heterophylla PH OBL Low 81 3-5' #1 Container 16' OC Tulip poplar Liriodendron tulipifera LT FACU High 72 3-5' #1 Container 16' OC Box elder Acer negundo AN FAC Middle 57 3-5' #1 Container 16' OC American elm Ulmus americana UA FACW Low/Middle/High 50 3-5' #1 Container 16' OC Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan June 2019 8 Common Name Scientific Name Symbol Wetland Indicator Status Zone Quantity Size Container Size Root Spacing Shrubs Spicebush Lindera benzoin LB FACW Low/Middle/High 101 18-24" #1 Container Clustered Winterberry Ilex verticillata IV FACW Low/Middle 119 18-24" #1 Container Clustered American elderberry Sambucus canadensis SC FACW Low/Middle/High 100 18-24" #1 Container Clustered Silky dogwood Cornus amomum CA FACW Low/Middle/High 85 18-24" #1 Container Clustered Red osier dogwood Cornus sericea CS FACW Low/Middle 70 18-24" #1 Container Clustered Speckled alder Alnus incana AI FACW Low 85 18-24" #1 Container Clustered Nanny-berry Viburnum lentago VL FAC Middle/High 61 18-24" #1 Container Clustered American bladdernut Staphylea trifolia ST FAC High 31 18-24" #1 Container Clustered 4.2 Planting Zones While the restoration area features relatively flat, gently-sloping topography, minor changes in elevation at the site result in differing flood durations and soil drainage classes. Three planting zones have been identified within the restoration area based on elevation and expected frequency of flooding: a low zone located below elevation 107, a middle zone located between elevations 107 and 109, and a high zone located above elevation 109. Of the approximately 13.25-acre restoration area, the low planting zone accounts for approximately 5.0 acres, the middle zone for approximately 5.5 acres, and the high zone for approximately 2.8 acres. While most species included in the planting plan would be expected to thrive in all three planting zones, species such as shagbark hickory, American basswood (Tilia americana), tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), and American bladdernut (Staphylea trifolia) have been restricted to higher elevations. 5.0 PLANT STOCK AND INSTALLATION SPECIFICATIONS 5.1 General Planting Specifications The restoration planting plan has been designed with a goal of providing 200 saplings and 50 shrubs per acre. As the planting area is approximately 13.25 acres in size, this equates to approximately 2,650 saplings and 660 shrubs. To achieve the desired planting density, saplings will be spaced approximately 16 feet on-center. Given the relatively low density of shrubs, these species will be planted in discreet clusters, rather than at a uniform spacing, per the direction of the on-site project scientist. It is anticipated that natural recruitment will supplement plantings, especially for species which are relatively abundant along the edge of the planting areas, including silver maple, pin oak, and eastern cottonwood. Planting will be conducted as early as possible in the spring, after ground preparations have been completed. Planting in the better drained portions of the fields will likely be possible somewhat earlier than in lower portions of the fields, provided that access is available. Lower portions of the fields are likely to be inundated for a longer period of time; planting in these areas would commence when floodwaters have receded. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan June 2019 9 The Nature Conservancy (TNC) will provide 50 Dutch elm disease-tolerant American elm cultivars to be included in the planting plan. Elms will be planted in pairs consisting of two different cultivars to allow for cross-pollination, and will be individually tagged to allow for long-term monitoring. As elms are typically favored by deer, all American elms will be planted within the deer exclusion fencing (see Section 7.2). 5.2 Plant Stock Specifications All plant stock will be grown from New England seed sources to the greatest extent possible. Some species (for example American bladdernut [Staphylea triofolia]) which are not typically grown at local nurseries may need to be grown from seeds collected at the project site and provided to a local nursery. Saplings will be generally be sourced at a minimum of three feet in height, with five feet considered optimal for most species. Faster-growing species such as silver maple and eastern cottonwood may be available at six to seven feet in height, which would be ideal for limiting the potential for deer browse. To the extent that larger (i.e., six to seven feet) specimens are available, these will be planted outside the deer exclusion fencing as browse pressure on these individuals is likely to be less than smaller specimens (see Section 7.0). Shrubs will generally be sourced at between 18 inches and 24 inches in height. Both saplings and shrubs will be sourced as one-gallon (#1) container-grown stock. The contractor will be required to guarantee at least 80% survival of plantings during a one-year establishment period. 5.3 Plant Installation Specifications Staking will be used for half of all saplings which receive no herbivory protection and for half of all saplings which receive vinyl spiral tree guards (see Section 6.0 for additional descriptions of herbivory protection measures). Stakes will be hardwood plant support stakes or an approved equivalent. Coconut coir mulch weed mats (Envelor Coco Coir Mulch Disc Plant Cover MatTM or equivalent) may be used for some or all plantings to control competition from herbaceous plants within a one-foot radius around the planting. Weed mats may also serve to increase moisture retention and avoid damage during mowing or other vegetation management in the planting areas. Targeted herbicide application in a two- foot radius around planted saplings and shrubs may be used as an alternative to weed mats. 6.0 HERBIVORY PROTECTION Planted saplings may be susceptible to damage or mortality due to chewing or girdling by small rodents such as meadow voles. Damage to planted saplings from beaver activity is also of concern due to the presence of an active beaver lodge in the vicinity of the project area. Several options for controlling rodent herbivory are available; each of the options included in this restoration plan involve physical barriers installed around individual saplings to deter chewing, girdling, and felling by small (i.e., meadow vole) and large (i.e., beaver) rodents. Herbivory protection is not proposed for planted shrubs because these species are proficient at re-sprouting if shoots are lost. Four types of sapling herbivory protection treatment were selected to be implemented as part of this restoration plan. These are: 1) vinyl spiral tree guards (Leonard Vinyl Spiral Tree GuardTM or equivalent), 2) staked solid tube protector (Max Grow Tube ShelterTM or Protex Tube ProtectorTM), 3) rebar-supported wire mesh cage (contractor supplied or Arbor Shield Tree ShelterTM), and 4) no herbivory protection. These are discussed in more detail below. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan June 2019 10 Vinyl spiral tree guards and staked solid tube protectors are designed to provide protection against chewing and girdling by small mammals such as meadow voles. Vinyl spiral tree guards are economical and simple to install, and consist of a 1.5-inch diameter, 18-inch long spiral-shaped vinyl strip which is wrapped around the sapling after planting. The pre-cut nature of the vinyl spiral tree guard allows the guard to expand as the diameter of the sapling increases, thus avoiding damage to the tree. Solid tube protectors are 48-inch long recycled plastic sheets which are installed around the sapling to form a 3- to 4-inch diameter tube. The ends of the sheet are secured to each other using cable ties to maintain the tubular shape of the guard, and a wooden stake is used to secure it to the ground to prevent the guard from leaning against the sapling. Wire mesh cages are a more substantial herbivory protection option and are designed to provide protection against beaver damage. Wire mesh cages could be constructed from materials supplied by the contractor or purchased as a pre-fabricated kit. This herbivory protection device is constructed from welded or woven galvanized steel wire mesh formed into a cylindrical or triangular shape around the planted sapling and secured into the ground using one or more lengths of rebar. The wire mesh cage will be a minimum of 48 inches high and of sufficient diameter to avoid interfering with the growth of the sapling (likely a minimum of 18 inches). The final herbivory protection treatment is no protection, which is included as a control against which to compare the results of the other three treatments. The four herbivory protection treatments will be divided evenly among all planted saplings, such that 25% of planted saplings receive vinyl spiral tree guards, 25% receive solid tube protectors, 25% receive wire mesh cages, and 25% receive no protection. Within each sapling species, a relatively equal number of individual plants will receive each of the four protection treatments. The four protection treatments will be spread relatively evenly throughout the restoration area; however, a larger number of wire mesh cages for beaver protection may be located in Areas 1 and 2 as these areas are in closer proximity to the beaver lodge. Example of beaver damage to woody plants along the perimeter of Area 1. Typical configuration of staked solid tube protectors. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan June 2019 11 7.0 DEER BROWSE PROTECTION Given the rural nature of the project area, deer browse is expected to be a potentially significant factor affecting the health and survivorship of planted saplings and shrubs. Therefore, implementing measures to minimize deer browse is a critical step in ensuring the long-term success of the restoration project. Several potential measures for controlling deer browse were considered, including plant selection, sprays/scent deterrents, and exclusion fencing. Of these, plant selection and exclusion fencing were considered practical and effective steps, and have been incorporated into the overall project design. These are discussed in the following sections. 7.1 Plant Selection White-tailed deer are known to browse a wide variety of native and non-native plant species; however, some vegetative species are apparently not preferred and are browsed at lower rates than other species. Characteristics of “browse-resistant” plant species often include aromatic, leathery, or hairy foliage, or milky sap. Among native, woody plant species that would typically be associated with a floodplain forest community, spicebush (Lindera benzoin) is known to be browse-resistant. Because of its browse- resistance, a relatively high number of spicebush shrubs have been included in the planting plan. Within Area 1, spicebush will be planted outside the deer exclusion fence as it has less need for protection than other, less browse-resistant species. As discussed in Section 5.2, certain fast-growing tree species such as silver maple and eastern cottonwood may be available from local nurseries in larger sizes (i.e., six to seven feet) than most other species. To the extent that larger plant stock is available and it is economically feasible to do so, these species will be sourced in larger sizes to provide additional protection from deer browse. Within Areas 1 and 5, larger plant stock, to the extent that it is available, will be placed outside the deer exclusion fence as these plants will have less need for protection than smaller stock. 7.2 Deer Exclusion Fencing Portions of the restoration area will be protected with deer exclusion fencing, which is expected to provide full protection from deer browse to plantings within the fence. Several options were considered for both the configuration and type of exclusion fencing. Given the size of the restoration area, it is not economically feasible to fence the entire perimeter of the restoration areas; therefore, a portion of the restoration area was selected for protection. Two separate fenced areas, each two acres in size, will be established in Area 1, and one one-acre fenced area will be established in Area 5. In Area 1, two smaller fenced areas were selected over one larger area to ensure that if a segment of the fence were damaged, one fully-intact fenced area would remain protected until repairs could be made. The fenced areas were designed as rectangular areas to simplify installation and maintenance, and were sited to largely avoid the existing tree line along the edge of the fields in order to minimize the potential for trees or large branches falling onto and damaging the fence. A three-dimensional, multi-strand electric fence was selected as the preferred option for the type of deer exclusion fencing. The three-dimensional fence consists of two separate electric fences – an inner fence and an outer fence. The inner fence is comprised of three strands of energized wire spaced 20 inches, 40 inches, and 60 inches above the ground. The outer fence is spaced three feet away from the inner fence and is comprised of one strand of energized wire 30 inches above the ground. The three-dimensional nature of the fence helps to discourage deer from jumping over the fence. The fence will be baited Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan June 2019 12 regularly during the spring, summer, and fall to “train” deer to avoid the fenced areas, as the fencing will likely be less effective during the winter due to the insulating effects of snow and frozen ground. The fence will be supported by metal T-posts at the fence corners and gates with fiberglass or composite rods for spacing between the T-posts. Each fence will be installed with one gate to provide access to personnel. Power is supplied by a solar panel, battery, and energizer which will be installed on a metal post above flood/snow level. To avoid damage during annual flooding, the conductors will be removed from the fence posts in early spring and replaced after floodwaters have largely receded. Any posts which are damaged during flooding events (i.e., by floating debris) will be replaced at that time. Other fencing options which were considered but rejected include non-electric woven wire or polyethylene mesh (Tenax C-FlexTM) with eight-foot wooden posts, and electric netting with integrated support posts (Deer QuikFenceTM). Both of these options were more likely to be damaged by flood debris and were significantly more costly, and were therefore not selected. 8.0 POST-RESTORATION MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT 8.1 Annual Monitoring Following the completion of the restoration activities described in the previous sections, it will be important to periodically monitor the restoration area to ensure that the goals of the restoration plan are being achieved. Plantings will be monitored during the growing season at least once per year for the first several years following installation to record the health of plantings, document mortality, and determine the need for replacement. Tree cages/tubes and deer exclusion fencing will also be inspected at least annually to ensure these measures are working as designed and to determine whether any modifications are needed. Tree cages/tubes will be removed from saplings prior to stem diameter exceeding the capacity of the cage/tube to avoid damage to the plant. 8.2 Maintenance Following Flooding Events Annual spring flooding of the site is expected to result in the deposition of debris (both organic and inorganic) within the restoration area. The restoration area will be periodically monitored during and after flooding events to inspect for damage to plantings, tree cages/tubes, and fencing, and to determine whether removal of debris would be appropriate. Smaller organic debris will likely be left in place to provide additional habitat complexity and provide material for consumption by detritivores. Inorganic material (such as anthropogenic waste) and larger organic debris will be removed to avoid the potential for damage to plantings, tree cages/tubes, and fencing. 8.3 Invasive Species Management It is anticipated that long-term invasive species management will be necessary to ensure the success of the restoration plan. The goal of long-term invasive species management is to control the growth and Example of large woody debris carried into Area 1 during a past flooding event. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan June 2019 13 spread of undesirable non-native species such that they do not out-compete desirable, native species or result in habitat degradation that could negatively impact native wildlife. The invasive species management strategies discussed in the following section is intended to serve as the initial management plan for the first three years post-restoration. A long-term stewardship and maintenance program plan will be developed following this initial period to guide the future management of the restoration area. The success criteria for this invasive species management plan are an 85% reduction in invasive species cover after the initial treatment year, a 95% reduction after the second treatment year, and a 99% reduction after the third treatment year. The priority species targeted for control are Asiatic bittersweet, Japanese knotweed, and invasive shrubs and trees (common buckthorn, multiflora rose, Morrow’s honeysuckle, and Russian olive) as these species have the greatest potential to negatively impact the planted saplings and shrubs. Invasive species management actions will focus on controlling all individuals within the restoration areas as well as all reproductive individuals along the perimeter of the fields to minimize the among of seed falling onto the restoration fields during the planting and establishment phases of the project. Table 4 summarizes the broad management strategies for the invasive species documented in or near the restoration areas. Table 4. Invasive Species Management Strategies Invasive Species Scientific Name Hand-pulling Cutting Herbicide Black locust Robinia pseudoacacia  Common buckthorn Rhamnus cathartica   Morrow’s honeysuckle Lonicera morrowii   Russian olive Elaeagnus angustifolia *   Multiflora rose Rosa multiflora    Asiatic bittersweet Celastrus orbiculatus   Japanese knotweed Polygonum cuspidatum   Canada thistle Cirsium arvense  Reed canary grass Phalaris arundinacea  * Seedlings only Species-specific management actions are discussed in more detail below. Trees Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) – Black locust is a fast-growing tree that can form dense shaded groves beneath which few species can survive. This legume increases soil nitrogen concentrations, and Multiflora rose growing along the perimeter of Area 1. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan June 2019 14 is commonly found in disturbed areas where it reproduces rapidly through stump sprouting and root suckering. Non-chemical control of this plant is largely ineffective, as physical damage to roots or stems increases suckering and sprouting. This species is most effectively managed through the application of a systemic herbicide such as triclopyr to the basal bark of the plant, but foliar sprays can be effective when leaves are fully expanded. Repeated treatments will likely be necessary to control this species. Shrubs Common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) – Common buckthorn puts out leaves earlier in the year and retains them for longer than most native plants. This trait allows buckthorn to outcompete native species, resulting in the formation of dense, even-aged thickets. This species will be managed through cutting and dabbing stumps with a systemic herbicide such as triclopyr, which is most effective when applied in the late growing season (August to October). Morrow’s honeysuckle (Lonicera morrowii) – Honeysuckle forms large dense stands that outcompete native plant species. It alters habitats by decreasing light availability, depleting soil moisture and nutrients, and possibly by releasing toxic chemicals that prevent other plant species from growing in the vicinity. They may also compete with many native species for pollination among local insects. Because control using mechanical means can take up to three to five years, a cut-and-paint method with glyphosate will be implemented late in the growing season to gain expedited control. Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) – Russian olive is a large deciduous, nitrogen-fixing shrub that colonizes open to semi-open areas, and exhibits rapid growth and prolific fruiting. This species can adversely affect the nitrogen cycle and outcompete native species for space and light. As physical damage stimulates sprouting, control of Russian olive is best accomplished through a combination of chemical and physical means. Larger olive plants will be controlled by cutting stems and painting stumps with herbicide (glyphosate). Small seedlings can be effectively controlled though hand pulling, if the root can be extracted without fragmentation. Multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora) – Multiflora rose is extremely prolific and can form impenetrable thickets that exclude native plants. This exotic rose readily invades open woodlands, forest edges, successional fields, and meadows that have been subject to land disturbance. Most plants are small enough to remove by hand but if larger (greater than two inches in diameter) plants or stands too dense for mechanical harvest are found, these will be managed by cutting and spot treating the stumps with an herbicide (glyphosate). Vines Asiatic bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) – Bittersweet is a vigorously growing vine that climbs over and smothers vegetation which may die from excessive shading or breakage. This species possesses an extensive fibrous root system which is often impractical to completely remove. This species will be managed by cutting individual stalks and spot treating with an herbicide (triclopyr) to kill the roots while not impacting adjacent native species. Herbaceous Plants Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum) – This species of smartweed aggressively and densely colonizes disturbed sites, pushing out native species by shading and carpeting the ground. Along riverbanks, the shallow root growth can cause unstable banks, which is exacerbated by dieback in the Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Plan June 2019 15 fall. Japanese knotweed within the Project Area will be treated with either foliar treatment or stem injection with glyphosate. Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense) – Canada thistle is a non-native perennial forb that can thrive in a variety of habitats. This species can spread rapid by wind-borne seed and an aggressive and extensive root system. Canada thistle can grow in dense patches that outcompete desirable, native species, leading to degradation in habitat quality for native wildlife. Control is best achieved by herbicide treatments in the fall, when nutrient uptake is accelerated. Glyphosate is effective against Canada thistle. Reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) – Reed canary grass is an aggressive cool-season grass that can form dense growths in wet fields and meadows, especially following disturbance. Reed canary grass can reproduce through seed, vegetative fragmentation, and rhizomes, and can spread rapidly once established in an area. As it is one of the first plants to emerge in the spring, it is capable of out- competing native species for light and nutrients. Where reed canary grass occurs in dense, monotypic patches, it will be controlled by application of herbicides such as glyphosate or imazapyr. 8.4 Wildlife Habitat Enhancement Following the completion of planting, additional opportunities for enhancing the value of the site for wildlife may be available, specifically, the installation of nest structures for one or more avian species. Of the various types of nest structures available, wood duck (Aix sponsa) nest boxes and osprey (Pandion haliaetus) nest platforms are the most likely to receive long-term use, including after the restoration area develops into a mature forest. One or more wood duck nest boxes may be installed within the planting areas, ideally as close as possible to existing areas of permanent or semi-permanent standing water. Wood duck nest boxes would be installed on dedicated support posts and would be outfitted with predator guards. Given the proximity of the site to the Connecticut River, the project area should provide appropriate nesting habitat for osprey. Up to one osprey nest platform may be installed within the planting area, likely near the southern boundary of the restoration area (i.e., where the planting area abuts existing fields to remain open) to avoid the forest canopy from developing around the platform. The osprey nest platform would be outfitted with a predator guard. American kestrels (Falco sparverius) currently make use of existing nest boxes at Manhan Meadows. An additional option for wildlife enhancement would be to install one or more kestrel boxes at the southern boundary of the planting area (i.e., where the planting area abuts existing fields to remain open). However, as American kestrels prefer open habitats dominated by low-growing vegetation, as the site develops into a mature forest, kestrels may no longer make use of nest boxes installed in this area. 8.5 Education It is anticipated that Mass Audubon may install one or more interpretive signs in the vicinity of the project area to inform and educate the public to the purpose of the restoration project. Interpretive signs would likely include information related to floodplain forest habitat in Massachusetts and the Connecticut River valley as well as Mass Audubon’s efforts to restore this habitat at Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary. www.essgroup.com Figures Source: 1) Project Area, Mass Audubon, 2019; 2) Topographic Quadrangle, USGS Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project Northampton, MassachusettsPath: J:\M393-000 Massachusetts Audubon Society- Floodplain Forest Restoration Project\04 GRAPHICS\GIS\MXD\NOI Figures\Figure 1 - Project Locus.mxdProject Locus Figure 1Drawing Date: 6/20/2019 Author: epvisitor© 2019 ESS Group, Inc.!° Project Area 1 inch = 2,000 feet 0 2,000 4,0001,000 Feet Approximate Limits of Land Area flooded 1.2 % of theYear (4.5 d/y) Estimated from Connecticut RiverStage-Discharge Data Source : 1) ESRI, World Im a g e ry, 2017 2) Ma ssGIS, LiDAR (2015), Pa rce ls (2014) 3) HEC RAS Da ta , Ma rks e t a l, 2014 Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary - Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration ProjectNorth h a m pton, MAPa th : P:\ESS Proposa ls\Proposa ls 2019\Arca dia \Rive rSta tions01.m xdDra wing Da te : 3/18/2019 Auth or: e pvisitor© 2019 ESS Group, Inc.OxbowPynchonMeadows Neds Ditch ManhanMeadows I-91River Station 11251.3 River Station 10849.37 River Station 11510.08 River Station 11742.98 River Station 12 1 4 5 . 6 8 River Stati o n 1 2 4 1 9 . 8 3 River S t a t i o n 1 2 8 6 8 . 9 7 River S t a t i o n 1 3 8 4 6 . 0 9 River Station 1 0 5 9 4. 7 1 ° 0 500 1,000 Fe e t HEC RAS Rive r Sta tion Pa rce l Estimated Water Surface LiDAR Elevation (Meters) 34.0 m Note : Th e portra ye d wa te r surfa ce re pre se nts th e e stim a te d 2-ye a rre curre nce inte rva l flood sta g e m inus 0.3 m b a se d on a n ide a lize dfloodpla in e le va tion profile pre se nte d in th e ope n-a cce ss a rticle title d“Qua ntifying flooding re g im e in floodpla in fore sts to g uide rive r re stora tion”b y C.O . Ma rks, K.H. Nislow, a nd F.J. Ma g illig a n pub lish e d in th e journa lEle m e nta : Scie nce of th e Anth ropoce ne , in 2014. HECRAS da ta a cce sse da t h ttps://da ta drya d.org /re source /doi:10.5061/drya d.jn3rr Figure 2 www.essgroup.com Attachment A Restoration Plan Set PROJECT SITE ARCADIA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY 1 inch = 2,000 feet LOCATION MAP Source: USGS National Map MANHAN MEADOWS FLOODPLAINFOREST RESTORATION PROJECT NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS JUNE 2019 PREPARED FOR: PREPARED BY: 127 Combs Road, Easthampton Massachusetts INDEX OF SHEETS 1 OF 7 2 OF 7 3 OF 7 4 OF 7 5 OF 7 TITLE SHEET AND LOCUS NOTES AND DETAILS PROJECT AREA OVERVIEW EXISTING CONDITIONS - WEST EXISTING CONDITIONS - EAST 6 OF 7 PROPOSED CONDITIONS - WEST 7 OF 7 PROPOSED CONDITIONS - EAST NOT ES AND DET AILS No.R EVIS ION DAT E APP BY WIRE HERBIVORY PROTECTION CAGE(Not to S cale) UTILITIES NOTES: 1. T HE CONT R ACT OR S HALL CALL "DIG S AFE" AT 1-888-344-7233 AT LEAS T 72 HOUR S PR IOR T O COM M ENCEM ENT OF PR OJECT. 2. W HER E AN EX IS T ING UT ILIT Y IS FOUND T O CONFLICT W IT H T HE PR OPOS ED W OR K , T HE LOCAT ION,ELEVAT ION AND S IZ E OF T HE UT ILIT Y S HALL BE ACCUR AT ELY DET ER M INED W IT HOUT DELAY BY T HECONT R ACT OR AND T HE INFOR M AT ION FUR NIS HED T O T HE ENGINEER AND OW NER FOR R ES OLUT IONOF T HE CONFLICT. 3. T HE CONT R ACT OR S HALL NOT IFY ALL APPR OPR IAT E AGENCIES AND UT ILIT Y COM PANIES , IN W R IT ING, 48HOUR S PR IOR T O ANY W OR K W IT HIN 15 FEET OF A UT ILIT Y LINE. MASS AUDUBONARCADIA WILDLIFE SANCTUARYNORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS MANHAN MEADOWS FLOODPLAINFOREST RESTORATION PROJECT S HEET 2 OF 7 GENERAL NOTES: 1. T HE HOR IZ ONT AL DAT UM S HOW N HER EON IS T HE NOR T H AM ER ICAN DAT UM OF 1983 (NAD-83) M AS S ACHUS ET T S S T AT E PLANECOOR DINAT E S Y S T EM , FEET 2. T HE VER T ICAL DAT UM FOR T OPOGR APHY R EFER ENCES NAVD88. LIDAR W AS OBT AINED FR OM M AS S GIS 2015. 3. FEM A FLOOD HAZ AR D ELEVAT IONS AND Z ONES FR OM FEM A FIS AND FIR M NO. 2501670002A, EFFECT IVE DAT E APR IL 3, 1978. 4. S OUCE OF PR OPER T Y LINES : M AS S GIS LEVEL 3 AS S ES S OR 'S PAR CEL M APPING, 2018 5. OR T HOPHOT OGR APHY OBT AINED BY ES S GR OUP ON M AY 8, 2019. PLANTING NOTES: 1. S APLING PLANT ING DENS IT Y IS DES IGNED T O EQUAL OR EX CEED A S PACING OF 16 (S IX T EEN) FEET -ON-CENT ER . S HR UBS T O BEPLANT ED IN CLUS T ER S AS APPR OVED BY PR OJECT S CIENT IS T. 2. T HE OUT LINES OF PLANT ING Z ONES S HALL BE S T AK ED OUT ON T HE GR OUND BY T HE CONT R ACT OR AND APPR OVED BY M AS SAUDUBON. 3. T HE EX ACT LOCAT IONS FOR PLANT INGS W ILL BE DES IGNAT ED ON T HE GR OUND BY T HE CONT R ACT OR FOR APPR OVAL BY M AS SAUDUBON. S LIGHT CHANGES T O PLANT ING LOCAT IONS M AY BE R EQUIR ED T O ADJUS T FOR LOCAL CONDIT IONS . 4. ALL PLANT M AT ER IAL S HALL BE K EPT COOL AND M OIS T W HILE ON S IT E. 5. FINAL APPR OVAL OF PLANT M AT ER IAL W ILL NOT BE PR OVIDED UNT IL DELIVER Y AND R EVIEW ON S IT E. 6. T R EES W IT H LAR GE CIR CLING R OOT S OR T OO DEEP R OOT S Y S T EM S W ILL BE R EJECT ED. 7. ALL R OOT PACK AGES M US T BE FR EE OF ANY W EEDS . 8. AT T HE DIR ECT ION OF T HE PR OJECT S CIENT IS T, PR UNING M AY BE R EQUIR ED T O R EM OVE DAM AGED, CR OS S ING, M IS S HAPENOR LOW BR ANCHING LIM BS . T R EES S HOULD NOT R EQUIR E S IGNIFICANT PR UNING T O COR R ECT HEALT H OR AES T HET ICDEFICIENCIES . 9. FOR ES T R ES T OR AT ION PLANT S IZ ES : S APLING S HALL BE A M INIM UM OF 3’ HIGH AND -3/4” CAL. BR ANCHING ABOVE 2’. S HR UBSS HALL BE A M INIM UM OF 1.5’-2’ HIGH, FULL AND BUS HY . 10. PLANT QUALIT Y , S IZ E AND CONDIT ION AS DET ER M INED BY S T ANDAR DS S ET FOR T H IN T HE AM ER ICAN AS S OCIAT ION OFNUR S ER Y M EN S TANDAR D ANS I 260.1-1973. PLANT NAM ES S HALL CONFOR M T O LAT ES T EDIT ION OF “S T ANDAR DIZ ED PLANTNAM ES ” AS ADOPT ED BY AM ER ICAN JOINT COM M IT T EE OF HOR T ICULT UR E NOM ENCLAT UR E. 11. ANY PLANT M AT ER IAL NOT M EET ING T HE S PECIFICAT ION’S R EQUIR EM ENT S FOR QUALIT Y W ILL BE R EJECT ED BY T HE PR OJECTS CIENT IS T. 12. ALL PLANT M AT ER IAL S HALL BE FER T ILIZ ED W IT H S LOW R ELEAS E FER T ILIZ ER PER CONT R ACT S PECIFICAT IONS AND M ULCHEDW IT H A T W O (2) INCH LAY ER OF DAR K BR OW N PINE BAR K M ULCH. 13. PLANT ING T IM E: PLANT ING W ILL OCCUR AS EAR LY AS POS S IBLE AFT ER S PR ING FLOODW AT ER S HAVE R ECEEDED. 14. T R EE S HELT ER S : ONE OF FOUR T R EE GUAR D OPT IONS (INCLUDING NO GUAR D) S HALL BE INS TALLED ON EACH S APLING PERR ES T OR AT ION PLAN. 15. M AINT ENANCE: IT S HALL BE T HE CONT R ACT OR ’S R ES PONS IBILIT Y T O M AINT AIN T HE R ES T OR AT ION AR EAS FOR A PER IOD OFONE Y EAR AFT ER S UBS T ANT IAL COM PLET ION. 16. NAT IVE PLANT INGS AR E S ELECT ED T O T HR IVE IN T HE R ES T OR AT ION AR EA S IT E CONDIT IONS . ANY ADDIT IONAL FER T ILIZ AT IONT O PLANT ED W OODY S PECIES IN T HE FOR M OF A S LOW R ELEAS E FER T ILIZ ER S HALL BE US ED ONLY DUR ING T HE ES T ABLIS HM ENTPER IOD OF T HE FIR S T T HR EE Y EAR S , AND T HEN ONLY AS NEEDED. S UPPLEM ENTAL W AT ER ING W ILL ONLY BE US ED DUR ING T HEES T ABLIS HM ENT PER IOD. 1. INS T ALL GALVANIZ ED W IR E HER BIVOR Y PR OT ECT ION CAGE AR OUND APPR OX . ONE-QUAR T ER OF ALL PLANT ED S APLINGSAS DIR ECT ED BY PR OJECT S CIENT IS T. 2. CAGES S HALL BE A M INIM UM 4' TALL AND A M INIM UM 18" DIAM ET ER W IT H A M AX IM UM M ES H S IZ E OF 1.5". 3. CUT W IR E FABR IC IN M INIM UM 58" LENGT HS , LEAVING W IR E ENDS PR OJECT ING FR OM ONE END OF CUT FABR IC. 4. FOR M M INIM UM 18" DIAM ET ER CY LINDER , OVER LAPPING ENDS BY 2". US E PR OJECT ING W IR ES T O T IE CY LINDERT OGET HER . 5. DR IVE T -POS T OR #4 R EBAR S UPPOR T INT O GR OUND APPR OX . 9" FR OM CENT ER OF PLANT ING S IT E. 6. AFT ER INS T ALLING PLANT AND W EED M AT, INS ER T W IR E CAGE OVER T -POS T OR R EBAR S UPPOR T, ENS UR ING T HAT T OPAND BOT T OM OF T -POS T OR R EBAR S UPPOR T AR E ON T HE OUT S IDE OF T HE W IR E CAGE. 7. DR IVE #4 R EBAR S T AK E (2' M INIM UM LENGT H) INT O GR OUND AT OPPOS IT E S IDE OF CAGE. (S ource: S tantec Consulting S ervice Inc.) DR AW N BY : S D DES IGNED BY : CW , AP CHECK ED BY : JR APPR OVED BY : AP No.REVISION DATE APP BY Beaver Lodge PL PL PL PL Acces s Ro a d LI M I T S O F E X I S T I N G C O N D I T I O N S - W E S T ( S E E S H E E T 4 ) LI M I T S O F E X I S T I N G C O N D I T I O N S - E A S T ( S E E S H E E T 5 ) AREA 18.5 Ac.AREA 21.0 Ac AREA 30.6 Ac AREA 40.5 Ac. AREA 52.6 Ac. 11 0 11 1 10 9 10 8 10 8 10 7 10 9 11 0 1081091071 0 7 10810710 6 107107 108 108 107 108 107 108109109108 Parcel: #45-031-001Owner: City of Northampton Parcel: #38D-075-001Owner: City of Northampton red oak26 dbh gcp-1 gcp-2 gcp-3 gcp-4 gcp-5 gcp-6 gcp-7 gcp-log north end gcp-8 ohw 18-2 gcp-9 gcp-10 ohw 20-2 gcp silver maple 29 dbh 5 black locust avg 12 dbh red maple 18 dbh pin oak 23 dbh cottonwood 25 dbh red oak 29 dbhred oak 22 dbh pin oak 29 dbh silver maple 32 dbh 10 8 10 7 1 1 0 10 9 108 110 109 109 108 10 9 1081 1 1 110 11 1 107 106 10 8 107 110109 1091 0 9 108106107 1071061 0 6 110106 106 106 106106 106 106 106106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106106 106 106 106 106 106106 106 106 106 106 0 80 160 Feet PROJECT AREA OVERVIEW MASS AUDUBONARCADIA WILDLIFE SANCTUARYNORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS MANHAN MEADOWS FLOODPLAINFOREST RESTORATION PROJECT SHEET 3 OF 7 Legend Existing Tree Utility Pole OHW Overhead Wire Ground Control Point 107 Terrain Contour (1-Ft Interval) Tree Line Approximate Wetland Edge PL Property Line Planting Area FEMA Flood Zone AE (entire extent of map)Map Number 2501670002AEffective Date APRIL 3, 1978 DRAWN BY: SD DESIGNED BY: CW, AP CHECKED BY: JR APPROVED BY: AP No.REVISION DATE APP BY Beaver Lodge PL PL PLPL Access Roa d 109 108 107 106 111 111 110 109 108 108 109 110 110 108 108 109 110 107107 107 107 108109 107107 AREA 21.0 Ac. AREA 18.5 Ac.red oak26 dbhgcp-2gcp-3gcp-4gcp-5ohw 18-2 ohw 20-2 gcp5 black locust avg 12 dbhred maple 18 dbhpin oak 23 dbhcottonwood 25 dbhred oak 29 dbh red oak 22 dbh pin oak 29 dbh silver maple 32 dbh 0 50 100 Feet EXISTING CONDITIONS - WEST MASS AUDUBONARCADIA WILDLIFE SANCTUARYNORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS MANHAN MEADOWS FLOODPLAINFOREST RESTORATION PROJECT SHEET 4 OF 7 Legend Existing Tree Utility Pole OHW Overhead Wire 107 Terrain Contour (1-Ft Interval) Tree Line Approximate Wetland Edge PL Property Line Planting Area DRAWN BY: SD DESIGNED BY: CW, AP CHECKED BY: JR APPROVED BY: AP No.REVISION DATE APP BY Beaver Lodge PL PLPL Access Roa d 107 107 108109 107 107 108 107 107 108 106 107 108 106 107 107 108 107 105 105 106 107 108 108 107 106 106 108 107 AREA 52.6 Ac. AREA 40.5 Ac. AREA 30.6 Ac. AREA 21.0 Ac. red oak26 dbh gcp-log north endgcp-8gcp-9gcp-10silver maple 29 dbh 5 black locust avg 12 dbh red maple 18 dbh pin oak 23 dbh cottonwood 25 dbh red oak 29 dbh red oak 22 dbh pin oak 29 dbh silver maple 32 dbh 0 50 100 Feet EXISTING CONDITIONS - EAST MASS AUDUBONARCADIA WILDLIFE SANCTUARYNORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS MANHAN MEADOWS FLOODPLAINFOREST RESTORATION PROJECT SHEET 5 OF 7 Legend Existing Tree Utility Pole OHW Overhead Wire 107 Terrain Contour (1-Ft Interval) Tree Line Approximate Wetland Edge PL Property Line Planting Area DRAWN BY: SD DESIGNED BY: CW, AP CHECKED BY: JR APPROVED BY: AP No.REVISION DATE APP BY Beaver Lodge PL PL PLPL Access Roa d 108 107 106 111 111 110 109 108 108 109 110 110 108 108 109 110 107107 107 107 108109 107107 AREA 21.0 Ac. AREA 18.5 Ac. MAINTAIN 50' SETBACK FROMTHE CENTER OF THE OHW APPROXIMATE LIMITSOF 2-ACRE DEEREXCLUSION FENCE. APPROXIMATE LIMITSOF 2-ACRE DEEREXCLUSION FENCE.red oak26 dbhgcp-2gcp-3gcp-4gcp-5ohw 18-2 ohw 20-2 gcp5 black locust avg 12 dbhred maple 18 dbhpin oak 23 dbhcottonwood 25 dbhred oak 29 dbh red oak 22 dbh pin oak 29 dbh silver maple 32 dbh 111 110 109108 107 106 105 111 110 109 10 9 108 108107 108 107 108 107 106 108107108 107 107 106109 108107 106 106105106 105 106105 107 105 106 111 111 110 108 108107107107 1 05 105 105105 108 106106 106106 106 106 106106106 106 106 106 106 106106 106106106 106 106 106 106 106106 106 106 105 105AS 28QB 28CS 7LB 7 PD 80PO 80LB 20IV 20AN 35AS 35LB 9CS 9 AS 74QP 74LB 18IV 18 QP 10NS 10CA 2VL 2 CO 57TA 57ST 14LB 14 PH 14QB 14LB 4CS 4 PH 15AS 15CA 4AI 4 UA 12PD 88VL 13CA 13 AN 10QP 10LB 2VL 2 AS 17QP 17IV 4AI 4 LT 14TA 14ST 3VL 3 AS 26PO 26CA 6SC 6 UA 12PD 92SC 13IV 13 QP 55QB 55CS 14IV 14 UA 14AS 128LB 18VL 18 LT 45TA 45ST 11CA 11 CO 45NS 45VL 11SC 11 LS 47CO 47LB 12SC 12 AS 31QB 31LB 8AI 8 UA 12QP 100CS 14SC 14 QB 69AS 69IV 17AI 17 LS 28QP 28LB 7SC 7 PH 14QB 14LB 4CA 4 NS 24PD 24VL 6CA 6 QP 22PD 22AI 6SC 6 0 50 100 Feet PROPOSED CONDITIONS - WEST MASS AUDUBONARCADIA WILDLIFE SANCTUARYNORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS MANHAN MEADOWS FLOODPLAINFOREST RESTORATION PROJECT SHEET 6 OF 7 Legend Existing Tree Utility Pole OHW Overhead Wire 107 Terrain Contour (1-Ft Interval) Tree Line Approximate Wetland Edge PL Property Line Planting Area *Acres represent project totals Low Planting Zone, < 107' (5.02 Acres*) Middle Planting Zone, 107'-109' (5.45 Acres*) High Planting Area, > 109' (2.76 Acres*) Deer Exclusion Fencing DRAWN BY: SD DESIGNED BY: CW, AP CHECKED BY: JR APPROVED BY: AP No.REVISION DATE APP BY Beaver Lodge PL PLPL Access Roa d 107 107 108109 107 107 108 107 107 108 106 107 108 106 107 107 108 107 105 105 106 107 108 108 107 106 106 108 107 AREA 52.6 Ac. AREA 40.5 Ac. AREA 30.6 Ac. AREA 21.0 Ac. APPROXIMATE LIMITSOF 1-ACRE DEEREXCLUSION FENCE. red oak26 dbh gcp-log north endgcp-8gcp-9gcp-10silver maple 29 dbh 5 black locust avg 12 dbh red maple 18 dbh pin oak 23 dbh cottonwood 25 dbh red oak 29 dbh red oak 22 dbh pin oak 29 dbh silver maple 32 dbh AS 69QP 69SC 17IV 17 PD 22AS 22IV 6AI 6 AS 28QB 28CS 7LB 7 AN 10QP 10LB 2VL 2 AS 17QP 17IV 4AI 4 LT 14TA 14ST 3VL 3 AS 26PO 26CA 6SC 6 AS 3QP 3CA 1SC 1 LS 7PD 7LB 2CS 2 QP 7PO 7IV 2CA 2PD 5QB 5IV 1CS 1 AN 12NS 12CS 3VL 3 CO 13LT 13ST 3VL 3 AS 36QP 36AI 9SC 9 AS 27PB 27IV 7AI 7 PH 14QB 14LB 4CA 4 NS 24PD 24VL 6CA 6 QP 22PD 22AI 6SC 6 PH 14QP 14CS 4SC 4 AS 25QP 25CS 6CA 6 PH 24QB 24AI 6CS 6 PD 48QB 48LB 12CA 12111110109108107 110109 109 107 108 107 108 106 108107 109108107106107106108 107 106 1 0 6 109106110 110109 108 108 108106 107107106 107107 107 107 106 106 106 105 109 108106 106 106 106 106 106106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106 106106 106 106 106106 106106 106 106 105 105 105 0 50 100 Feet *Acres represent project totals PROPOSED CONDITIONS - EAST MASS AUDUBONARCADIA WILDLIFE SANCTUARYNORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS MANHAN MEADOWS FLOODPLAINFOREST RESTORATION PROJECT SHEET 7 OF 7 Legend Existing Tree Utility Pole OHW Overhead Wire 107 Terrain Contour (1-Ft Interval) Tree Line Approximate Wetland Edge PL Property Line Planting Area Deer Exclusion Fencing DRAWN BY: SD DESIGNED BY: CW, AP CHECKED BY: JR APPROVED BY: AP Low Planting Zone, < 107' (5.02 Acres*) Middle Planting Zone, 107'-109' (5.45 Acres*) High Planting Area, > 109' (2.76 Acres*) www.essgroup.com Attachment B Photographic Log Photographic Log May 8, 2019 Sheet 1 of 4 Photograph No. 1: Area 1, looking northwest. Photograph No. 2: Area 1, looking south. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project Northampton, Massachusetts © 2019 ESS Group, Inc. environmental consulting & engineering services Photographic Log May 8, 2019 Sheet 2 of 4 Photograph No. 3: Example floodplain forest between Areas 1 and 2. Photograph No. 4: Area 2, looking north. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project Northampton, Massachusetts © 2019 ESS Group, Inc. environmental consulting & engineering services Photographic Log May 8, 2019 Sheet 3 of 4 Photograph No. 5: Area 3, looking northeast. Photograph No. 6: Area 4, looking north. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project Northampton, Massachusetts © 2019 ESS Group, Inc. environmental consulting & engineering services Photographic Log May 8, 2019 Sheet 4 of 4 Photograph No. 7: Area 5, looking northwest. Photograph No. 8: Example of floodplain forest adjacent to Area 5. Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project Northampton, Massachusetts © 2019 ESS Group, Inc. environmental consulting & engineering services www.essgroup.com Attachment C Environmental Monitor Notification Mass Audubon will file a Notice of Intent (NOI) with the Northampton Conservation Commission in March 2020 for the Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project located in Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, Northampton, Massachusetts. The purpose of the proposed project is to restore approximately 13 acres of former floodplain forest within the floodplain of the Connecticut River which were historically cleared and used for agricultural production. The proposed work will restore the natural capacity of the resource area to protect the interests identified in the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c. 131 §40). To obtain Information regarding the date, time, and location of the public hearing or to examine copies of the NOI, contact the Northampton Conservation Commission at 210 Main Street, Room 11, City Hall, Northampton, MA 01060 or (413) 587-1263. To obtain more information regarding this application or to obtain an electronic copy of the application, contact Craig Wood at ESS Group, Inc. at cwood@essgroup.com or (401) 330-1208.