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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS While this plan was produced by the development of this plan as well all of Vermont Agency of Natural Resources the many lake associations in the `its development would not have been watershed. possible (or effective) with out the considerable involvement of numerous Finally, the development of this plan outside individuals, watershed and lake would not have been possible with out organizations, conservation the many towns, organizations and commissions, and state and federal schools that provided meeting space for agencies too numerous to list completely. the regular meetings that were required for the development of this plan. These However, particular recognition is include town meeting spaces in the towns deserved for the members of the Stevens, of Strafford, Bradford, Corinth, Groton, Wells, Waits and Ompompanoosuc River Norwich and West Fairlee, the South Watershed Councils who spent many Ryegate Presbyterian Church, Northern hours in meetings discussing issues and Woodlands, the Corinth, Bradford, developing strategies as well as ensuring Baldwin, Groton, Latham and Peacham their effectiveness at a local level. Other Libraries, and the Blue Mountain, organizations that have been heavily Barnet, and Waits River Valley schools, involved in the watershed planning as well as the Thetford Academy. process include a number of town selectboard, planning and conservation commissions and members, the White River, Caledonian County and the Association of Natural Resource Conservation Districts, the Natural Resources Conservation Service as well as the Northeast Vermont Development Association, and Two Rivers Ottauquechee Regional Planning Commissions. Three watershed groups, the Friends of the Ompompanoosuc River, Save Everyone’s Wells River and Connecticut River Joint Commissions have also played a key role in the

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Table of Contents i EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This river basin water quality management runoff (Copperas Brook, Schoolhouse elevated mercury levels, threats to plan provides an overview of the health of Brook, the West Branch of the wetlands, impacts from dams on aquatic Basin 14 and a description of the Ompompanoosuc River, and Pike Hill habitat, and the effects of shoreline prospective and ongoing steps to restore Brook). development. Chapters covering the and protect its waters. With the purpose of Stevens, Wells and Waits river watersheds improving both water quality and aquatic This water quality management plan include strategies for improving water habitat, this plan presents the includes strategies developed for Basin quality awareness through increased recommendations of local watershed 14 as a whole, listed in Chapter One, volunteer water quality monitoring and residents, stakeholders from varying and for each watershed individually, assessment, and by promoting water interests, the Agency of Natural Resources listed in Chapters Two through Five. quality education and outreach. (ANR) and natural resource professionals These strategies address nonpoint from other state and federal agencies to source (NPS) pollution, river corridor Remediation plans for impaired waters and guide efforts in this basin. management issues, transportation- waters of concern were identified in each related water quality impacts, lake and watershed in the final sections of Chapters Basin 14 includes the watersheds of the dam issues, and a lack of water quality Two through Five including an overview Stevens, Wells, Waits and awareness. Strategies were developed of acid mine drainage in the Ompompanoosuc rivers. Differences for reducing NPS pollution from Ompompanoosuc and Waits River among these four watersheds and developed, agricultural and forested watersheds. Methods for setting recommendations from local residents led lands. River corridor management management goals are discussed in to the formation of separate watershed strategies were developed for each Chapter Six, although a water management councils and the identification of many watershed to protect stable reaches and typing proposal is not included in this issues and strategies for each of the four river corridors, increase the Water Quality Management Plan due to individual watersheds in the basin. Waters participation of local residents in river ongoing uncertainties in this process and in this basin support many uses including corridor protection, and complete discussions before the Vermont Water swimming, boating and fishing in the restoration projects identified through Resources Panel. basin’s many rivers, streams, lakes and watershed assessments. Strategies to ponds. Threats to these uses across all address water quality impacts from Over the next five years the Agency of four watersheds include stream channel transportation infrastructure include Natural Resources will focus its efforts in instability, sedimentation and nutrient reducing conflicts between streams these areas in collaboration with the enrichment. A number of surface waters and culverts, and minimizing community and other state or federal in the watershed are also impaired by stormwater and sediment runoff from agencies as set forth in the plan to improve elevated phosphorus levels (Ticklenaked roads. Lake and dam related strategies and restore waters in this Basin. Pond), elevated E. coli levels (the were developed to address exotic Ompompanoosuc River) and copper mine invasive species, acid precipitation and

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Table of Contents ii CHAPTER 1 – INTRODUCTION AND SHORELINE PROTECTION ...... 15 CHAPTER 3 – THE WELLS RIVER COMMON CONCERNS IN BASIN CHAPTER 2 – THE STEVENS WATERSHED...... 30 14...... 1 RIVER WATERSHED...... 18 SECTION 3-1 WATERSHED DESCRIPTION...... 30

SECTION 1-1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 SECTION 2-1 WATERSHED DESCRIPTION...... 18 DAMS IN THE WATERSHED ...... 31 WATER-BASED RESOURCES...... 31 PURPOSE OF THE BASIN PLAN AND THE BASIN PLANNING LAND USE ...... 18 PROCESS ...... 1 WATER-BASED RESOURCES ...... 19 SECTION 3-2 IMPROVING WATER QUALITY PLANNING AT THE WATERSHED LEVEL...... 1 AWARENESS IN THE WELLS RIVER WATERSHED PLAN DEVELOPMENT AS A COLLABORATIVE PROCESS SECTION 2-2 IMPROVING WATER QUALITY ...... 33 ...... 1 AWARENESS IN THE STEVENS RIVER WATERSHED ...... 20 BIOLOGICAL MONITORING SITES IN THE WELLS RIVER WATERSHED COUNCIL AND WATERSHED PLAN WATERSHED ...... 33 DEVELOPMENT ...... 2 LAKE MONITORING INCLUDING LAY MONITORING LAKE MONITORING ...... 33 HOW TO READ THIS BASIN PLAN ...... 2 AND SPRING PHOSPHORUS TESTING...... 21 E. COLI MONITORING...... 34 STEVENS RIVER WATERSHED COUNCIL WATER SECTION 1-2 DEC MONITORING STRATEGY...... 3 BOLTONVILLE LAND USE EXPLORATION (BLUE) CAMP QUALITY MONITORING PROJECT...... 22 AND VOLUNTEER MONITORING ...... 34 SECTION 1-3 NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION IN BASIN 14...... 3 SECTION 2-3 NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION STREAM AND TRIBUTARY MONITORING ...... 35 IN THE STEVENS RIVER WATERSHED...... 23 WATER QUALITY DATA MANAGEMENT...... 35 IMPACTS OF NUTRIENT ENRICHMENT, SEDIMENT AND ROAD PROJECTS, BRIDGE AND CULVERT SURVEYS PATHOGENS...... 3 SECTION 3-3 NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION IN AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT BUDGETS FOR THE THE WELLS RIVER WATERSHED ...... 36 DEVELOPED LAND...... 4 STEVENS RIVER WATERSHED ...... 23 AGRICULTURAL LANDS...... 4 AGRICULTURE IN THE STEVENS RIVER WATERSHED AGRICULTURE IN THE WELLS RIVER WATERSHED 36 LOGGING AND FORESTED LAND...... 5 ...... 24 SECTION 3-4 WELLS RIVER STREAM CHANNEL SECTION 1-4 RIVER CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT IN SECTION 2-4 RIVER CORRIDOR INSTABILITY AND AQUATIC HABITAT...... 37 BASIN 14...... 7 MANAGEMENT IN THE STEVENS RIVER SECTION 3-5 TRANSPORTATION-RELATED FLOODPLAIN ACCESS AND CHANNEL EVOLUTION ..8 WATERSHED ...... 24 WATER QUALITY ISSUES IN THE WELLS RIVER GEOMORPHIC ASSESSMENTS ...... 9 RIVER CORRIDOR PLANNING AND FLUVIAL EROSION WATERSHED ...... 39 RIVER CORRIDOR PLANNING AND FLUVIAL HAZARD HAZARD MAPPING...... 25 BRIDGE AND CULVERT SURVEYS AND CAPITAL MITIGATION ...... 9 RIPARIAN RESTORATION ...... 26 IMPROVEMENT BUDGETS...... 39 RIPARIAN BUFFERS...... 9 SECTION 2-5 LAKES AND DAMS IN THE SECTION 3-6 LAKES AND DAMS IN THE WELLS SECTION 1-5 TRANSPORTATION-RELATED STEVENS RIVER WATERSHED...... 27 RIVER WATERSHED...... 40 POLLUTION IN BASIN 14...... 10 EXOTIC INVASIVE SPECIES ...... 27 NUTRIENT ENRICHMENT ...... 40 BRIDGE AND CULVERT SURVEYS AND CAPITAL SHORELINE PROTECTION ...... 27 EXOTIC INVASIVE SPECIES...... 42 IMPROVEMENT BUDGETS...... 12 LOW PH PONDS ...... 42 PARTNERS FOR WATER QUALITY...... 12 SECTION 2-6 IMPAIRED AND ALTERED WATERS IN THE STEVENS RIVER LAKESHORE PROTECTION AND ENHANCEMENT....42 SECTION 1-6 LAKES, DAMS AND WETLANDS IN WATERSHED ...... 29 SECTION 3-7 IMPAIRED AND ALTERED WATERS BASIN 14...... 13 ALTERED WATERS OR WATERS IN NEED OF IN THE WELLS RIVER WATERSHED...... 44 EXOTIC INVASIVE SPECIES...... 13 FURTHER ASSESSMENT...... 29 ALTERED WATERS OR WATERS IN NEED OF FURTHER LOW PH AND OTHER TOXINS ...... 14 ASSESSMENT ...... 44 WETLANDS IN THE WATERSHED ...... 15 DAMS IN THE WATERSHED...... 15 Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Table of Contents iii CHAPTER 4 – THE WAITS RIVER SECTION 5-3 RIVER CORRIDOR REFERENCES...... 88 MANAGEMENT IN THE OMPOMPANOOSUC WATERSHED...... 46 RIVER WATERSHED...... 66 ACRONYMS ...... 90 SECTION 4-1 WATERSHED DESCRIPTION...... 46 RIVER CORRIDOR PLANNING ...... 66 GLOSSARY...... 89 DAMS IN THE WATERSHED...... 47 SECTION 5-4 TRANSPORTATION-RELATED

WATER-BASED RESOURCES...... 47 POLLUTION IN THE OMPOMPANOOSUC WATER QUALITY IN THE WATERSHED ...... 49 RIVER WATERSHED...... 74 PART II - APPENDICES SECTION 4-2 WATER QUALITY OUTREACH IN THE BRIDGE AND CULVERT SURVEYS AND CAPITAL APPENDIX A.1 - STATUTORY INDEX...... A1 WAITS RIVER WATERSHED ...... 50 IMPROVEMENT BUDGETS ...... 74 APPENDIX A.2 - THE PUBLIC PROCESS FOR SCHOOL MONITORING PROGRAMS ...... 50 SECTION 5-5 LAKES, DAMS AND WETLANDS THE STEVENS, WELLS, WAITS AND PUBLIC FIELD TRIPS AND EVENTS ...... 50 IN THE OMPOMPANOOSUC RIVER OMPOMPANOOSUC RIVER WATERSHED WATERSHED ...... 75 SECTION 4-3 NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION IN COUNCILS ...... A4 THE WAITS RIVER WATERSHED...... 52 EXOTIC INVASIVE SPECIES ...... 75 APPENDIX A.3 - AGRICULTURE IN THE WETLANDS IN THE WATERSHED ...... 75 ROAD ASSESSMENTS AND PROJECTS ...... 52 STEVENS RIVER WATERSHED ...... A9 SHORELINE PROTECTION ...... 76 AGRICULTURE ...... 52 SECTION 5-6 IMPAIRED AND ALTERED APPENDIX A.4 - AGRICULTURE IN THE SECTION 4-4 RIVER CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT IN WATERS IN THE OMPOMPANOOSUC RIVER WELLS RIVER WATERSHED ...... A19 THE WAITS RIVER WATERSHED...... 53 WATERSHED ...... 77 APPENDIX A.5 - AGRICULTURE IN THE SECTION 4-5 WETLANDS, DAMS, PONDS AND ACID MINE DRAINAGE ...... 78 WAITS RIVER WATERSHED ...... A29 INVASIVE SPECIES IN THE WAITS RIVER SUPERFUND SITE CLEANUP WATERSHED...... 55 ...... 79 APPENDIX A.6 - AGRICULTURE IN THE ALTERED WATERS OR WATERS IN NEED OF OMPOMPANOOSUC RIVER WATERSHED SECTION 4-6 IMPAIRED AND ALTERED WATERS FURTHER ASSESSMENT...... 80 IN THE WAITS RIVER WATERSHED...... 56 ...... A39 CHAPTER 6 – MANAGEMENT ACID MINE DRAINAGE...... 56 APPENDIX A.7 - TOWN PLAN REVIEW IN BASIN 14...... A49 LOCAL WATERS OF CONCERN ...... 58 GOALS AND PLAN IMPLEMENTATION...... 82 APPENDIX A.8 - RELEVANT GRANT AND CHAPTER 5 – THE FUNDING SOURCES COVERING BASIN 14 OMPOMPANOOSUC RIVER SECTION 6-1 ESTABLISHING MANAGEMENT ...... A59 GOALS FOR SURFACE WATERS IN BASIN 14.....82 WATERSHED...... 59 APPENDIX A.9 – FISHERIES IN BASIN 14 .A66 WATER MANAGEMENT TYPING AND SECTION 5-1 WATERSHED DESCRIPTION...... 59 CLASSIFICATION...... 82 APPENDIX A.10 - BRIDGE AND CULVERT EXISTING USES ...... 83 SURVEY OMPOMPANOOSUC RIVER & DAMS IN THE WATERSHED...... 60 OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATERS...... 86 MAJOR TRIBUTARIES ...... A77 WATER-BASED RESOURCES...... 60 WARM WATER AND COLD WATER DESIGNATIONS86 WATER QUALITY IN THE OMPOMPANOOSUC RIVER APPENDIX A.11 - VERMONT ANTI- WATERSHED...... 63 SECTION 6-2 IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DEGRADATION IMPLEMENTATION BASIN 14 WATER QUALITY MANAGEMENT SECTION 5-2 NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION IN EXISTING USE DETERMINATION FOR USE PLAN...... 86 THE OMPOMPANOOSUC RIVER WATERSHED.65 DURING RIVER BASIN PLANNING...... A86 EVALUATION OF THE PLANNING PROCESS ...... 87 AGRICULTURE ...... 65 APPENDIX A.12 – RESPONSIVENESS PROGRESS REPORTING ...... 87 SUMMARY...... A92

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Table of Contents iv APPENDIX B - REGULATORY AND NON- Table 3-2. Phosphorus reduction scenarios Table 5-2. River Corridor projects listed in the REGULATORY PROGRAMS THAT CONTAIN for Ticklenaked Pond ...... 41 West Branch of the Ompompanoosuc BMPS APPLICABLE TO PROTECTING AND Table 3-3. Impaired waters in the Wells River, River Corridor Management Plan.69 RESTORING WATERS WITHIN THE BASIN ...... A100 River watershed...... 44 Figure 5-6. Draft FEH map of Strafford...... 72 Table 3-4 Local waters of concern Figure 5-7. Priority culverts for replacement in List of Figures and Tables (including waters in need of further Strafford...... 74 assessment) in the Wells River Table 5-3. Impaired waters in the Figure 1-1. Major Planning Basins in Vermont ... 1 watershed...... 45 Ompompanoosuc River watershed...... 78 Figure 1-2. Stable channel equilibrium ...... 7 Figure 4-1. The Waits River watershed.....46 Figure 5-9. Elizabeth Mine during the Figure1-3. Five Stages of Channel Evolution in Figure 4-2. Biological Monitoring results on stabilization of tailings pile 1 in 2004 .....79 Vermont Rivers ...... 8 the Waits River...... 49 Figure 5-8. An overview of the Elizabeth Mine Figure 1-4. Vehicle miles traveled in Vermont .. 11 Figure 4-3. The Waits River below the with major pollution source areas shaded. Figure 2-1. The Stevens River watershed...... 18 confluence with the South Branch.....54 ...... 79 Figure 2-2. Ben Threshers Mill ...... 19 Table 4-1. Impaired waters in the Waits Table 5-4. Local waters of concern (including Figure 2-3. Dave Magnus and Ron Miller taking River Watershed...... 57 waters in need of further assessment) in the water samples on Peacham Hollow Brook. 21 Figure 4-4. The locations of the mines on Ompompanoosuc River watershed...... 80 Figure 2-4. Rainfall, flow and phosphorus levels Pike Hill...... 57 Table 6-1. Determination of existing uses of measured during a rainfall event...... 21 Table 4-2. Local waters of concern flowing waters for Swimming in Basin 14 Figure 2-5. Stevens River water quality (including waters in need of further ...... 84 monitoring sample sites...... 22 assessment) in the Waits River Table 6-2. Determination of existing uses of Figure 2-6. The Stevens River from Barnet watershed...... 58 flowing waters for Boating in Basin 14...84 School to Karme Choling...... 25 Figure 5-1. The Ompompanoosuc River Table 6-3. Determination of existing uses of Table 2-1. Local waters of concern (Including watershed...... 59 flowing waters for fishing in Basin 14 …84 waters in need of further assessment) in the Table 5-1. Fish species present in Table 6-4. Determination of existing uses of Stevens River watershed...... 29 Ompompanoosuc River watershed waters for public surface water supplies in Figure 3-1. The Wells River watershed...... 30 lakes and ponds...... 61 Basin 14...... …85 Figure 3-2. Spring Phosphorus Levels in Figure 5-2. Biological monitoring sites on Ticklenaked Pond since 1981...... 33 the Ompompanoosuc River...... 63 Photo Credits Figure 3-3. Campers at the BLUE camp Figure 5-3. E. coli levels on the Figure 2-2. Ben’s Mill Trust measuring flow of the Wells River...... 34 Ompompanoosuc River and Tributaries Figure 2-3/3-3. Andy Mosedale Table 3-1. Priority Culverts for replacement in in the summer of 2006 and 2007. ....64 Figure 3-3. Andy Mosedale the surveyed portions of the Wells River Figure 5-4. The West Branch of the Figure 5-4. Mike Blazewicz Watershed...... 39 Ompompanoosuc River...... 67 Figure 5-9. Army Corps of Engineers Figure 3-4. Bridges and culverts surveyed in Figure 5-5. Project types for each reach ....68 2006 with priorities for replacement...... 39

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Table of Contents v Basin 14 include the small rivers and Planning at the Watershed Level Chapter 1 – Introduction streams that drain into the Stevens, Wells, A watershed, or a larger unit such as a Waits and Ompompanoosuc rivers along basin, is a distinct land area that drains into and Common Concerns with the ponds and wetlands in their a particular waterbody either through in Basin 14 respective watersheds. The four watersheds channelized flow or surface runoff. of Basin 14, also referred to as the Little Preparing a plan at a watershed level Section 1-1 Introduction Rivers watershed, are tied together as one of allows for the consideration of all 17 river basins in the State of Vermont (see contributing sources of surface water Figure 1-1). Planning for the Stevens, Purpose of the Basin Plan and the runoff to the waterbody. Wells, Waits and Ompompanoosuc river Basin Planning Process watersheds has been done separately at the The Agency of Natural Resources has This river basin water quality request of community participants because conducted water quality assessment and management plan describes strategies to each river forms a discrete watershed. improvement efforts at a watershed level restore and protect the values and since the 1970s. The state is divided into beneficial uses of surface waters in Basin The majority of strategies identified in this 17 planning basins for this purpose, with 14, such as swimming, boating and plan are the result of a basin planning each basin including one or more major aquatic habitat. The surface waters in process that sought community involvement river watersheds. The Agency is to identify and build upon existing interest responsible for preparing river basin water and resources in the basin to protect and quality management plans for each of the improve water quality. The remaining 17 major basins and updating them every strategies describe the Agency of Natural five years after the plan is originally Resources’ (ANR) existing programs approved. and efforts to have all surface waters meet the Vermont Water Quality Plan Development as a Collaborative Standards. In addition to Process guiding the Agency in its Planning through a collaborative process work, individuals and groups with the communities in the basin, local, will be able to use these state, and federal governments, private strategies to identify resources and organizations and individuals is an opportunities to address water quality effective method for addressing present issues. The Agency and others began water quality problems in Vermont. This is implementing strategies during because the state’s water quality problems the basin planning are predominantly the result of runoff from process and will continue many dispersed activities on the land, such implementation until the as cropping, lawn care and landscaping, Figure 1-1. Major Planning Basins in Vermont planning process begins again in five years.

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 1 and urban stormwater management watershed to participate in the development council members took on a variety of roles which are all considered nonpoint source of a water quality management plan. The including: pollution. Reducing the load of community members that came together as a • Encouraging constituents’ participation pollutants from these activities requires watershed council represented a diverse mix and conducting outreach and education the participation of many different of stakeholders from within the watershed. to inform constituents about known sectors of the community, each They included farmers, foresters, business watershed issues composed of numerous parties. owners, municipal officials, anglers, local • Developing and conducting watershed watershed and lake shore organizations, forums to identify water resources As many as 65 volunteer-based groups in environmental groups, teachers, and regional issues (assets and problems), related the state have already begun this planners. The Department of Environmental community needs, and potential collaborative planning process as they Conservation (DEC) watershed coordinator solutions are working with members of their and the watershed council went through the • Identifying immediate or ongoing water community and resource agencies to following steps over a three-year period: quality improvement projects to be improve water quality within their own • Issue identification undertaken during the planning process watersheds. The Agency’s basin • Issue prioritization planning process helps advance existing • Guiding the plan through review, • Strategy and solution development; and revision, and approval process efforts within the community as well as • Identification of resources and funding its own efforts by documenting The planning process will occur for each community-voiced problems and The DEC watershed coordinator worked watershed on a five-year cycle, solutions, facilitating the exchange of with conservation commissions and incorporating planning, implementation, information among resource agencies, conservation districts in each watershed and monitoring, and evaluation. Every fifth groups, and individual citizens, and watershed groups such as Save Everyone’s year, the renewed plan will direct a finally, directing existing resources Wells River, and Friends of the continually evolving course of watershed towards the priorities of active groups Ompompanoosuc River in developing this improvement activities for the basin. and landowners within the communities. plan as well as implementing water quality Opening the basin planning process to improvement projects during the watershed How to Read this Basin Plan the entire community also serves to planning process. This document is a compilation of work increase public awareness of done by four independent watershed opportunities to promote and preserve Council membership and meeting councils covering the Stevens, Wells, water quality in the basin. attendance was continually open to the Waits and Ompompanoosuc River public. Technical advisors provided the watersheds. Common issues across all four Watershed Council and Watershed Plan council and watershed coordinator with watersheds are covered in Chapter One of Development information necessary to develop strategies the plan. Chapters Two through Five of In the winter of 2003/2004, the Agency to be included within the watershed plan. the plan each cover one of the four sent out an open invitation to the The watershed council was integral in the watersheds in the basin. Each of these communities within the Little Rivers development of this document. Each of the chapters begins with a description of the

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 2 watershed, including water-based Section 1-2 DEC Monitoring Section 1-3 Nonpoint Source resources, and water quality conditions. Strategy Pollution in Basin 14 This is followed by five to six sections covering the top concerns and impaired DEC is responsible for monitoring and Similar to other areas of Vermont, and altered waters specific to each assessing ambient water quality and support nonpoint source (NPS) pollution is the watershed. The organization of the basin of designated uses for surface waters in the major threat to the quality of surface waters plan with separate chapters for each of state. In addition, DEC determines whether in Basin 14. Unlike point source pollution, the four watersheds in Basin 14 has or not selected waters are in compliance such as a direct discharge or outfall pipe, allowed for the development of with Vermont’s Water Quality Standards. NPS pollution is more diffuse, harder to individualized strategies and the The Water Quality Standards contain a large quantify and more difficult to control. engagement of active partners in each of number of narrative standards and numeric Examples of this are nutrients, sediments the subwatersheds which would have chemical and biological criteria. DEC and pathogens that run off from parking been challenging working with Basin 14 monitors and assesses water quality for lots, gravel roads, fertilized lawns, logging as a whole. selected criteria on selected waters in a operations, and agricultural fields. watershed on a five-year rotating schedule. Each section, with the exception of DEC sampled sites in the Little Rivers Basin The watershed approach helps introductory sections for each chapter, during the 1997 and 2002 field seasons, and communities address these water quality begins with an overview of a watershed collected samples for processing again in problems caused by NPS pollution and problem and a goal to address the 2007. looks at not only a waterbody but also the problem. The goal is then broken down entire area that drains into it. Public and into objectives, which will be carried out In addition, since 1979, the Agency, through private groups have developed and used through strategies, listed sequentially for the Department of Environmental pollution prevention and reduction the whole plan. Each strategy lists Conservation, has worked with volunteer initiatives and NPS pollution controls, potential key players, funding sources, monitors to sample the water quality in lakes referred to as strategies in this Basin Plan, and a timeframe for the strategy to be and ponds. The Vermont Lay Monitoring to clean up Vermont waters efficiently. completed. Due to the limited space, Program equips and trains local lake users to acronyms are used for many partners and measure the nutrient enrichment of lakes by Impacts of Nutrient Enrichment, funding sources that are defined at the collecting water samples according to the Sediment and Pathogens end of this document on page 90. A program's EPA-approved Quality Assurance High levels of nutrients, sediment and glossary of terms is provided on page 91. Project Plan. The state has also managed a pathogens impact the health of our rivers program called LaRosa Analytical and their quality for recreation. High Partnership Program that has supported levels of nutrients, primarily nitrogen and volunteer groups sampling waters to meet phosphorus, increase levels of algae in the local needs. Details on assessments water, which reduce the quality of water completed in each watershed are listed for recreation, and reduce dissolved oxygen individually in Chapters Two through Five. levels, affecting fish and aquatic

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 3 communities. Sediment can alter the results from the initial construction of Agricultural Land habitat of the river, cover fish eggs and houses, commercial buildings, parking lots, Agriculture gives the Little Rivers reduce the clarity of the water and its and driveways, during which the rate of watershed much of its character. It also appeal for swimming and other erosion is between 20 to 2000 times the rates supports the economic base, cultural recreational activities. Sediments also of erosion from other land uses (Vermont identity, and patchwork landscape of open carry phosphorus, so in addition to direct Geological Survey, 1987). Even when the and forested lands so highly valued in the impacts sediments also increase nutrient construction is finished, developed land can watershed. In addition, as agricultural land levels in surface waters. Finally, high cause an ongoing discharge of sediment and is converted to suburban development, levels of pathogens, generally measured NPS pollution from increased areas of there is generally a net increase in nutrient as Escherichia coli (E. coli) increase the compacted and impervious surface if not production, so keeping agricultural land in risk of gastrointestinal sickness limiting properly designed, stabilized and active production along with NPS runoff recreational uses of waters. Sources of E. maintained. This stormwater runoff can be control measures can support better water coli can arise from nonpoint sources and reduced by the installation of effective quality. point sources. Major nonpoint sources stormwater treatment systems and by using of pathogens include failing septic low impact development techniques such as All farms in Vermont must meet the systems, runoff from agricultural lands, careful siting, minimization of site clearing Accepted Agricultural Practices (AAPs) and pet and wild animal waste that and the inclusion of rain gardens and other which are statewide regulatory washes into the river. Point sources can pollution abatement techniques. requirements for agricultural land use include straight pipes, point source practices created to reduce the amount of discharges from agricultural operations, The use of fertilizers on lawns is another agricultural pollutants entering waters of and stormwater discharges from urban source of phosphorus to surface waters in the state from farmland. The AAPs were areas. the watershed. This source can be reduced designed to reduce nonpoint pollutant by using phosphorus free fertilizers, or discharges through implementation of Developed Land eliminating the use of fertilizers altogether, improved farming techniques rather than Basin 14 is still primarily rural but the since most lawns have sufficient phosphorus investments in structures and equipment. continued development of lands in the and only need nitrogen for full growth. The Appendix B discusses the AAPs in greater watershed threatens to increase NPS proper maintenance of healthy lawns can detail and has a link to where these can be pollution if precautions are not taken. also reduce phosphorus pollution since bare found online. In addition to the AAPs, Developed land has the highest levels of soil in a poorly maintained lawn can result large and medium sized farms, which are phosphorus runoff compared to other in the erosion of sediments into surface defined roughly as farms with more than land uses, as shown by a recent study of waters. Roads associated with development 700 and 200 mature cows respectively, land use in the Lake Champlain are also a source of NPS pollution, and are must meet stricter regulations. These watershed which estimated that 53% of discussed in detail in Section 1-5 on page regulations state that no waste (manure, phosphorus entering the lake came from 10. spoiled feed, milkhouse liquids, or urban lands covering just 6% of the barnyard runoff) may leave the production watershed (Troy 2007). NPS pollution area and enter surface water, and require Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 4 the completion of a nutrient management Conservation Service (NRCS) works closely in Basin 14 as their numbers are likely to plan. While there are no large farms in with farmers to implement BMPs. For all of continue to grow in the future. Basin 14, there are two medium sized Basin 14, including the Stevens, Wells, farms in each of the Stevens and Wells Waits and Ompompanoosuc river There has been a significant increase in the River watersheds (Agency of Agriculture watersheds, there have been 29 Best number of organic dairy farms in Vermont Farms and Markets 2007a&b). Management Practices implemented over over the past few years. This transition the past decade that have involved cost share may be beneficial to water quality as the Beyond the AAPs and large and medium dollars (AAFM 2007c). use of pesticides is eliminated and daily farm regulations, many farms install Best pasturing means there is less concentration Management Practices (BMPs), which The consolidation of farms in the watershed of manure. As of 2006, there were 34 are voluntary practices to correct a is concentrating animals and their associated organic dairy farms covering 8681 acres in current waste management problem on a pollution in just a few places. This has Orange and Caledonia counties and it is specific farm. BMPs typically involve made implementation of manure storage on expected that number will rise in future the installation of structures, such as those individual farmsteads ever more years (AAFM 2007a&c). Additional manure storage systems, milkhouse important. Manure storage facilities that organic vegetable, field crop, fruit and waste treatment, stream fencing to were adequate 10 years ago are frequently livestock operations cover over 2000 acres reduce agricultural NPS pollution, and a undersized today. Upgrading and in Orange and Caledonia counties. In total, variety of other practices that improve maintenance of pollution control practices over 5% of agricultural land in Orleans and water quality. The expense of installing on farmsteads will be a priority in the Caledonia counties has been certified as many of these practices makes federal watershed. organic (AAFM, 2007a&c). and state funding necessary to make them affordable for farmers. An While there has been a consolidation of Logging and Forested Land example of this is the Conservation dairy farms in the watershed, there has also Forested lands contribute the lowest Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) been an increase in number and diversity of amounts of nutrients, sediment and other which funds the establishment of buffers small farms. This is shown in the trend of pollutants into Vermont streams per acre as between agricultural lands and surface the past 15 years in both Caledonia and compared to other land use. This, waters, paying farmers a rental rate for Orange counties of an increase in the however, does not mean that this watershed taking land out of production in addition number of farms which have, on average land use should be ignored for possible to sharing the costs of fencing and tree gotten smaller. In total, this has resulted in a improvements to water quality, especially plantings. The Environmental Quality decrease in the total number of acres in because forestland makes up over 82% of Incentives Program (EQIP) and state best agricultural production in these two counties Basin 14. The major sources of NPS management practices cost share but an increase in the number of small pollution from forested lands are erosion program are the primary funding sources farms. Many of the smaller farms are not from logging operations and associated for structural improvements on farms, involved in current Best Management roads and staging areas. and can fund a number of conservation Practices (BMP) programs but will likely practices. The local Natural Resource play a larger role in reducing NPS pollution

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 5 Much of the erosion can be prevented by 1. Enroll farmers into CREP or State BMP maintaining buffer strips along streams following Acceptable Management buffer programs on one mile of riverbank and ponds to reduce NPS pollution. Practices (AMPs) for maintaining water in Basin 14. Distribute “Don’t P on the Lawn” quality on logging jobs in Vermont. Potential key players: NRCS, AAFM brochure. These practices list buffers along streams Potential funding sources: CREP, State BMP funding Potential key players: conservation commissions, and road construction guidelines among Time-frame: 2012 CCNRCD, WRNRCD Potential funding sources: CRJC PG, WEF, C&C, other practices that protect water quality, 2. Continue offering Nutrient Management Time-frame: 2010 and provide protections for the Plan (NMP) courses and financial landowner and logger if the practices are incentives with a goal of 50% of the 6. Hold educational workshops for forest followed. acreage of agricultural lands in the landowners with forestry groups such as

watershed with current NMP and 100% Vermont Coverts. Landowners can play a large part in Potential key players: NRCS, DFPR, Local Vermont in the Ticklenaked Pond watershed. Coverts cooperators, Center for Woodland encouraging good silvicultural practices Potential key players: NRCS, AAFM, UVM -Ext by working with a forester to develop a Education Potential funding sources: EQIP, NMPIG Potential funding sources: WEF management plan. On lots over 25 acres Time-frame: 2012 Time-frame: 2008 ongoing landowners can enroll in Vermont’s Use Value Appraisal Program which requires 3. Continue and expand work with 7. Increase logger education on water the development of a 10 year forest agricultural producers to reduce runoff quality issues through the Center for management plan certified by the from farmsteads and farm fields with a Woodland Education, the LEAP Department of Forests Parks and priority on farms within the Ticklenaked program and the Vermont Loggers Recreation (DFPR) in exchange for Pond watershed. Association’s Forestry Academy to property tax rates based on forestland Potential key players: NRCS, AAFM encourage good forestry practices in the value. Landowners can also make a Potential funding sources: EQIP, State BMP Time-frame: ongoing watershed. contract when hiring a logger stipulating Potential key players: NRCS, DFPR, Local Vermont certain protective practices to limit 4. Lead a series of educational workshops Coverts cooperators, Center for Woodland erosion. Education, LEAP program for part-time farmers and horse owners in Potential funding sources: WEF Basin 14 covering best management COMMON GOAL: REDUCE THE Time-frame: 2008 ongoing practices. AMOUNT OF NPS POLLUTION AND Potential key players: NRCS, WRNRCD, CCNRCD, SEDIMENT ENTERING BASIN 14 UVM - EXT STREAMS, RIVERS AND LAKES. Potential funding sources: CRJC PG Time-frame: 2010 Objective: Reduce levels of NPS pollution from agricultural, developed, 5. Provide outreach to landowners about and forested lands. impacts of over-fertilizing lawns and the importance of establishing and

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 6 Unbalanced rivers increase the risk Section 1-4 River of damage from flooding to our Corridor Management communities—and it’s an expensive risk. From 1995 through 1998, flash in Basin 14 flooding damage in Vermont approached $60,000,000. Much of this damage Towns in the Little Rivers occurred where rivers had been separated watershed, like many others in from their floodplains by some kind of America, were established and development, or where rivers had been developed along rivers and adjusting their length, depth or width waterways. Before roads and because activities in the river, on the electricity, the benefits of a river as a banks, or in the flood plains, had caused source of transport and power far the rivers to become unbalanced and outweighed the risks of flooding for destabilized. The dollar cost of such most settlements. In addition, less was damage may well be equaled by other understood about the environmental Figure 1-2. Stable channel equilibrium (Lane 1955) economic losses including diminished impacts caused by development along Experience and science have shown that a recreation opportunities, impaired rivers and modifications of river banks stable, balanced river—one that is just ecological functions, and long-term and channels. As towns and communities wide enough, deep enough and long channel instability. have grown, so have the costs of flood enough to move the amount of water and damage and the impacts to the riverine gravel produced in its watershed—will Until recently, river management has environment. The past century has been erode its banks and change course only largely focused on water and how to one of great change for the Little Rivers minimally, even in a flood situation. contain or withstand the force of its flow. watershed. The watershed was cleared However, if a river becomes Throughout North America river of forests, wetlands were lost, rivers and “unbalanced,” then it will change course, scientists and managers are now bringing streams in the watershed were slope, depth, or width—or all four— until the principle of river “stability” into the channelized and armored. In addition it becomes balanced again (see Figure 1- management of river corridors. This has riparian vegetation was removed and 2). An important way to keep rivers from meant understanding that human activity areas of the floodplain were filled. The becoming unbalanced, or to allow them to near rivers must not only withstand the result of all these activities has been re-establish balance, is to protect their forces of running water but must avoid significant changes to the stability of the “river corridors.” River corridors consist changing the movement of sediment Stevens, Wells, Waits, and of the river channel, the banks on either (sediment regime) in the river in order to Ompompanoosuc rivers and their side, and the areas close to the river that remain secure. Stream or river channels tributaries. carry flood water and accommodate the are a reflection of what goes into them

meander pattern of the river (DEC 2004). (water, ice, sediment and woody debris) and the valley type within

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 7 which the stream is located. The shape of relationship of the river with its floodplain temporal aspect of channel response to a river channel including its dimension it becomes increasingly difficult to plan change. Fluvial systems are energized by (the width and depth), its pattern (or plan and very expensive to maintain those land episodic events, such as large floods. form), and its profile (or slope), is uses. Channel adjustment in response to developed and maintained over time by management practices or encroachments the action of water, sediment, and debris Floodplain Access and Channel Evolution may begin immediately but may also that drains from the surrounding area. Cutting a river off from its floodplain by persist for decades depending on the This “channel forming flow” is raising bank heights, armoring, or sensitivity and morphology of the approximated by the average annual high deepening a channel will cause a river to affected stream, the magnitude of water event, which, by virtue of its attempt to regain its balance frequency, does the greatest amount of through physical change. The “work” on the channel and floodplain result of containing greater and transports the greatest volume of flows in the channel, or sediment over time. Stable rivers are preventing access to the recognizable by their ability to carry floodplain, is to increase the water, sediment and debris, even during stream’s power that must be high water, without changes occurring in resisted by the channel the depth, width, length, or slope of the boundary materials; i.e., the channel. Figure 1-2 illustrates a stable rocks, soil, vegetation or channel balance and indicates the manmade structures that make relationship between the watershed up the bed and banks of the inputs of water and sediment, channel river. Figure 1-3 shows channel slope, channel boundary resistance evolution as predicted by the (sediment size), and the physical model published by Shumm response of the channel either by (1984). These diagrams only aggradation (building up of sediment) or illustrate channel response at degradation (eroding down). A change in one cross section. There are any one of these parameters will cause equally profound physical adjustments of the other variables or a adjustments that occur physical response of the stream channel upstream and downstream from until the system regains its balance. the site of alteration as bed Human land uses, especially within river degradation in the form of head corridors, that significantly alter the cuts migrate up through the runoff patterns of water or sediment will system and sedimentation trigger a channel adjustment process. occurs downstream. It is Figure1-3. Five Stages of Channel Evolution in Vermont Rivers When these processes change the important to recognize the Shumm (1984)

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 8 alteration, and the frequency of high involves the collection of detailed field in the National Flood Insurance Program flow events. The first three stages might measurements at the sub-reach or site with the exception of the towns of occur within a few months to a few scale and is used for designing specific Peacham and Vershire. years. The last three might not reach restoration projects (DEC 2006). completion for one hundred years or Through the development of an FEH more (DEC 2004). River Corridor Planning and Fluvial Hazard map, towns can clearly identify areas Mitigation where development is inadvisable. Once Geomorphic Assessments The results from geomorphic assessments produced an FEH map could be used to The River Management Program at DEC in progress or completed for much of develop a zoning overlay district to place has developed fluvial geomorphic Basin 14, can be used to develop river limits on structures, land use activities, or assessments to help lay people corridor plans for rivers in the Little even vegetative condition to protect understand how human activities over Rivers watershed. Such plans will be property from fluvial erosion hazards and time within a watershed can be important to restoring or maintaining the to allow the river the space it needs to conducted in a manner that is both equilibrium condition of rivers in the return to an equilibrium condition. ecologically and economically watershed by reducing current or future sustainable and to allow for sound land constraints on the river that cause Riparian Buffers use practices and planning at the instability. A river corridor plan includes Even in areas where the river channel is watershed scale. These assessments are a process for selecting and implementing stable, the river bank will likely be broken down into three phases to river corridor management alternatives subject to accelerated erosion if riparian identify the physical condition, and provides a basis for corridor vegetation is absent. Riparian vegetation sensitivity, and adjustment process for protection through various land use includes trees, shrubs, and herbaceous rivers and streams in the watershed. planning and incentives programs. plants that grow naturally on, and Phase 1, the remote sensing phase, adjacent to, the banks of rivers and involves the collection of data from River corridors plans can also define streams. As defined by the Agency of topographic maps and aerial flood hazard zones or overlay districts. Natural Resources buffer guidance photographs, from existing studies, and Fluvial (or river-related) Erosion Hazard procedure, the width of riparian from limited field studies, called (FEH) mapping identifies areas of high vegetation needed for maintaining “windshield surveys.” Phase 2, the first risk for bank failure and erosion during healthy streams and rivers varies field assessment phase, involves the flooding. These fluvial erosion hazards depending on the size, slope and collection of data from measurements cause most of the flood damage in geomorphic stability of the river, as well and observations at the reach or sub- Vermont as opposed to damage from as the erodability of the soils. Significant reach (segment) scale. A reach is inundation which is what current Federal natural communities or wildlife travel defined as a section of a stream having Emergency Management Agency corridors can also justify wider buffers to similar attributes such as width, depth (FEMA) flood maps address through the protect these resources. and substrate. Finally Phase 3, the National Flood Insurance Program survey-level field assessment phase, (NFIP). All towns in the basin participate

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 9 Riparian buffers also play important Backroads Manual (Northern Vermont roles in maintaining a healthy riverine Section 1-5 Transportation- Resource and Development Council ecosystem. Vegetated buffers provide Related Pollution in Basin 14 1995) explains: “Sediments impact shade to reduce surface water aquatic ecosystems by smothering temperatures; filter sediments, nutrients, Transportation infrastructure is essential spawning and feeding habitat, disturbing and other pollutants from runoff; provide to the Vermont economy by allowing the reproductive cycle of many shade and food for aquatic organisms; people and goods to move through the organisms, decreasing water clarity, and provide cover and substrate for fish and rural landscape. Transportation adding excess nutrients to the water.” aquatic insects; provide habitat to species infrastructure includes roadways, road Undersized bridges and culverts, and whose life cycles include water and approaches and embankments, road floodplain fill for transportation upland; offer cover for species traveling drainages, rail systems, driveways, infrastructure constrain the natural between habitats; slow floodwaters; and recreation paths, airport runways, and movement of waterways, thus control ice damage. culverts. Despite the often quoted exacerbating flooding, erosion, sediment Vermont saying that “you can’t get there transport and other problems. Road- Goals and strategies related to river from here,” Vermont has an extensive related fill that causes the river to lose corridors are listed separately for each network of over 14,000 miles of paved access to its flood plain concentrates watershed in Basin 14 in Chapters Two and gravel roads (over 80% of which are more energy within the channel, and will through Five due to the importance of maintained by local municipalities) 600 cause erosion and increased flooding in local support and involvement for miles of operating rail lines (305 state the watershed as discussed in Section 1- implementing strategies related to river owned), over 70 miles of bicycle/ 4. Undersized culverts are also an corridor management. pedestrian facilities, and countless miles ecological challenge. They can be a of private driveways. In Basin 14, there barrier to fish and wildlife and prohibit are over 850 miles of state and town movement through the landscape, thus roads, and nearly an equal length of cutting off and eliminating essential private roads and driveways. habitat. Transportation infrastructure can be a significant source of NPS pollution to Transportation infrastructure leads to rivers and streams if infrastructure is not NPS pollution in a number of ways, but properly sited, constructed and many of these have to do with the maintained. amount and rate of water flowing over the surface of un-stabilized soils. An Railroads and roadways have historically obvious example is the erosion of the followed rivers and streams. This close road surface itself when it is not built or proximity contributes to runoff of maintained with proper drainage. Other pollutants, sediment, and stormwater into sources of sediment include: erosion waterways. The Vermont Better from ditches that are not vegetated or

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 10 lined with stone, bank failures sediment to surface waters in near the road, bridges and Vermont (Vermont Local culverts that wash out, erosion Roads Program 2004). during road construction and maintenance, and sand runoff The increasing amount of from winter maintenance of both traffic on Vermont roadways paved and gravel roads. While is another concern. To these sources of sediment can accommodate these involve significant amounts of increases, new roadways are money to fix, addressing sources often needed or existing of NPS pollution can save money roads are widened or left over time by reducing the need inadequate for the traffic for yearly road maintenance. For they serve. New and wider example, a Better Backroads roads, without adequate funded project - the construction stormwater infrastructure, of rock and grass lined ditches increase stormwater runoff, along Manning Road in Hyde thus resulting in increased Park, Vermont, costing less than NPS pollution. Towns and $6,000 - eliminated the need for yearly Figure 1-4. Vehicle miles traveled in Vermont regional planning commissions can work maintenance that would cost an to reduce the miles driven in the estimated $18,250 over 10 years. This and sedimentation (VTrans 2007). These watershed by encouraging land use resulted in a net savings of over $12,000 standards include minimum requirements planning and public infrastructure that to the town and cleaner water for seeding and mulching ditches, supports compact, mixed use downstream. Another area with installing stone lined ditches and roadway development. Increased density and potential financial and environmental and culvert standards. By adopting these mixed use is necessary for public benefits is in increasing the effectiveness standards the town match on class 2 transportation and walking and biking to of sand and salt application in the projects is reduced from 30% to 20% and be viable transportation alternatives. watershed by developing guidance on the town can receive increased disaster Rideshare programs, and appropriately their use as has been done in the Town of relief to rebuild roads up to adopted designed and maintained park and ride, Norwich. standards not just current road conditions. bicycle and pedestrian facilities also Another important policy for towns to contribute to reducing the number of Towns can also adopt road and bridge adopt is a highway access policy. Poorly single occupancy vehicles on Vermont’s standards consistent with those designed driveways are a common cause roadways. recommended by the Vermont Agency of flood damage to road systems and of Transportation in the Handbook for contribute a disproportionate amount of Transportation facilities are linked to Local Officials to help reduce erosion growth and development patterns that

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 11 affect the watershed. Transportation costs of projects with the potential savings Objective: Reduce erosion from road accessibility – the availability of well along with considerations about surfaces, ditches and banks in Basin maintained roadways adequate to serve ecological impacts. This information 14. traffic volumes now and in the future - is helps to prioritize road improvements a key determining factor in the location over the five years of the plan. Towns 8. Hold a series of Local Roads of land uses within the watershed. In can also apply for Better Backroads grants workshops in Basin 14 to increase addition, land use patterns that are spread to correct specific road-related erosion awareness of maintenance measures across the landscape, such as car- problems impacting local lakes and that will reduce gravel road erosion. oriented commercial strip development streams. Encourage the participation of all on the edges of towns and villages, town highway managers and road require more transportation infrastructure Partners for Water Quality crews in the watershed. such as numerous parking lots and thus In both 2006 and 2007, the Caledonia Potential key players: town selectboards and road more impervious surface than compact County Natural Resources Conservation commissioners, Local Roads Program, RMP patterns. The quantity of impervious District received funding through the Potential funding sources: NVRCDC, CRJC PG surface within the watershed and the Upper Connecticut Mitigation and Time-frame: 2010 adequacy of the treatment of storm water Enhancement Fund to support area towns 9. Develop capital road improvement discharge from those surfaces greatly in reducing impacts from roads and budgets for all towns in Basin 14. affect water quality. culverts on water quality and aquatic Potential key players: town selectboards, road resources. The goal of this grant has been commissioners Bridge and Culvert Surveys and Capital to address erosion from roads and barriers Potential funding sources: Better Backroads Improvement Budgets to fish passage including undersized and grants The Agency has developed new bridge poorly designed culverts. The approach Time-frame: 2012 and culvert survey protocols to examine has been to provide grants to towns to fix 10. Identify Better Backroad grant the size and configuration of bridges and the highest priority road and culvert opportunities by touring watersheds culverts to determine: if they are large projects, as wells as provide with road commissioners from each enough to accommodate the flows of the administrative and technical assistance as town. Apply for Better Backroad stream, and if they allow for the passage needed. The CCNRCD has worked with grants in all watershed towns to of sediment that is necessary to maintain the Town of Peacham on a number of address the most serious road-related a stable stream and if they provide for projects and has been trying to engage the erosion problems. the passage of fish and wildlife. Using Town of Barnet in a similar way. Potential key players: DEC, road commissioners, this information along with information selectboards, Local Roads Program on other problematic road sites, towns COMMON GOAL: MINIMIZE Potential funding sources: Better Backroads can apply for grants through the Better CONFLICTS BETWEEN STREAMS’ grants, municipal stormwater mitigation grants, Backroads program to develop capital NATURAL FUNCTIONS AND town highway funds improvement budgets. Capital TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE. Time-frame: 2012 improvement budgets compare the total

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 12 11. Compile guidance on winter sanding standards outlined in the Highway Access and salt application and distribute to Policy and Program Guidance and Model Section 1-6 Lakes, Dams and towns in Basin 14 to encourage the Ordinance, VT Local Roads Program, May Wetlands in Basin 14 development of policies that will 1997. reduce salt and sand application in the Potential key players: Road crews and The Little Rivers watershed includes a watershed. Provide outreach to the commissioners, conservation commissions, and number of lakes and ponds that range in selectboard members in the basin, VTrans size from Mud Pond in Peacham, general public on the impacts of salt Potential funding sources: Town Funds, Increased and sand application to reduce the state match for class 2 road projects and covering 20 acres, to Lake Fairlee, pressure for their expanded use. reimbursement for disaster relief. covering 457 acres. Concerns about Potential key players: Road commissioners, Time-frame: 2012 lakes and ponds in the watershed include VTrans, Local Roads Program, DEC nutrient enrichment, exotic invasive Potential funding sources: N/A 14. Compile available bridge and culvert species, acidification and toxins, and Time-frame: 2010 survey data in the basin and present lakeshore protection and enhancement. this information to watershed towns 12. Work with road crews in the Dams and wetlands are also discussed in and develop a list of priority culverts watershed to put in a grant for a this chapter as they are often associated for replacement based on likely hood hydroseeder that could be used by all with lakes and ponds. of culvert failure, geomorphic impacts towns in the watershed and possibly and aquatic species passage concerns. Exotic Invasive Species landowners to stabilize ditches. Potential key players: Road crews and Potential key players: Road crews and commissions, conservation commissions, and Eurasian watermilfoil, zebra mussels, commissions, conservation commissions, and selectboard members in the basin, VTrans, rusty crayfish, Didymosphenia geminata selectboard members in the basin, VTrans TRORC, NVDA, RMP, DFW (also called didymo or rock snot) and Potential funding sources: Municipal Stormwater Potential funding sources: Better Backroads grant, Mitigation Grant, Better Backroads grant water chestnut are exotic invasive species UCM&E that currently can be found in a number Time-frame: 2008 Time-frame: 2009 of Vermont lakes and rivers. Several 13. Work with all municipalities in the 15. Work with town road commissioners other problematic exotic species (e.g. watershed to adopt and actively and selectboard members to replace hydrilla and spiny water flea) are on implement the following programs or top priority culverts in each town. Vermont’s doorstep. In addition to standards: Potential key players: Road crews and aquatic invasive species there are also a commissions, conservation commissions, and number of wetland and riverbank exotic A. Town road and bridge standards selectboard members in the basin, VTrans, invasive species, including purple consistent with or exceeding those listed TRORC, NVDA, RMP, DFW loosestrife, phragmites, and Japanese under Town Roads & Bridges Standards, Potential funding sources: Better Backroads grant, knotweed which can reduce the quality of Handbook for Local Officials, VTrans UCM&E aquatic habitats and spread along river 2004. Time-frame: 2010 corridors. In Basin 14, Eurasian B. Driveway/highway access (curb cut) watermilfoil is only found in Lake construction ordinances meeting the Fairlee although it is also found in nearby

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 13 waterbodies including Lake Morey, deposition. While some of the sources of Round Pond, Halls Pond, and in the Invasive species watch programs like the mercury and acid deposition may differ, Connecticut River south of Orford New state’s VIPs or Vermont Invasive Midwestern power plants are a Hampshire. Rusty crayfish have been Patrollers can also help slow the spread of significant contributor of both of these found in the White River just to the invasive species by catching infestations constituents. Other sources of acid south of the basin and have been in their early stages when control is more deposition are industrial and motor identified in the Ompompanoosuc River feasible. To prevent the further spread of vehicle emissions. There are also local Watershed. In the summer of 2007 Eurasian watermilfoil and other aquatic sources of mercury, including many didymo was also identified near the invasives water body associations must consumer products such as fluorescent basin in the upper Connecticut River and work together to combat the spread of lights, batteries and thermostats which at two locations in the White River. these species, and raise public awareness can end up in surface waters if not about the threats these species cause to properly disposed of. The key to addressing the threat of Vermont waters. invasive species in the basin is to prevent Vermont is a national leader in efforts to the further spread of these species Low pH and Other Toxins reduce mercury contamination from because of the high costs of control once In Basin 14 Levi Pond is impaired and sources in-state, contributes to the species are established. Invasive species Norford and Mud ponds are listed as implementation of regional mercury are often spread during the movement of threatened due to low alkalinity. No lakes controls and research initiatives, and boats and other water-based recreational in Basin 14 are impaired due to elevated actively pushes for meaningful national- equipment between water bodies. This mercury levels but the levels of mercury level controls on mercury emissions. incidental transport can be prevented by in fish across Vermont have lead to state Under a 2005 Vermont law (10 V.S.A . washing and drying boats and wide fish consumption advisories Chapter 164), and in coordination with equipment, and physically removing any recommending that some people limit the the Vermont Advisory Committee on visible plants or animals from any consumption of certain species of fish Mercury Pollution, the Agency is equipment that has been in contact with taken in the state. This advisory and more implementing pollution reduction and the water body. Recreational users can general information about mercury prevention from numerous source sectors become informed about these techniques pollution is available online at within the waste stream, while through signage, access area greeters at www.mercvt.org . Not all waters in the identifying remaining unaddressed boat launches, and other public outreach. watershed have been sampled for mercury mercury sources and mechanisms for Spread prevention for other species like and water level fluctuations at Harveys their control. Vermont is also in the alga didymo, also includes using Lake and Lake Fairlee increase the compliance with the recently approved HOT tap water and lots of soap to scrub likelihood of elevated mercury levels Northeast Regional Mercury TMDL. boats, other “hard” items and to soak warranting additional follow up. “soft” items like clothes and felt-sole There are other threats from toxic waders, thoroughly for a minimum of 30 The primary sources of mercury and acid substances such as lead sinkers that have minutes. in the basin are from atmospheric been a leading cause of death in loons in

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 14 New England although this threat should Adams Paper Company Dam, and the of drawing down dammed lakes drains be reduced with the passage Vermont Boltonville Falls Dam. The largest dam surrounding wetlands and is harmful to law 10 V.S.A. section 4606 and 4614 in the watershed is the Union Village the many animals that rely on this habitat which has prohibited the sale and use of Dam flood control structure, which for overwintering, in addition to lead sinkers. In addition the unburned oil provides flood control for the lower increasing mercury levels. and gas discharged from motor boat Ompompanoosuc River valley and the engines (up to 30% for two stroke Connecticut River valley and is operated As global warming becomes a more engines) is another concern expressed by by the United States Army Corps of prominent issue, there is more pressure to residents in Lake Fairlee due to the Engineers (USACE). Many of the other increase the use of hydropower in the heavy boat traffic at certain times of the dams in the watershed are located at the state to reduce carbon emissions. The year and occasional oil sheens near the outlets of lakes and ponds. installation of hydroelectric facilities at boat launch. some existing dams may be possible with Dams change the physical and ecological limited environmental impacts but the Wetlands in the Watershed characteristics of lakes and rivers and construction of new dams or water There are numerous significant wetlands have multiple effects on aquatic and diversions would be likely to conflict in Basin 14. Wetlands absorb flood riparian habitat. These changes range with the management objectives of the water and stormwater, filter pollutants from a minor alteration of depth and Vermont Water Quality Standards. and nutrients, provide habit for many velocity in the case of low-head, run-of species of plant and animals, provide the-river dams, to a complete change from Shoreline Protection open space, and opportunities for river to lake characteristics in the case of The removal of natural shoreline education and recreation. Because of large dams. Dams can flood upstream vegetation can increase erosion of the these values, wetlands in the watershed habitat and act as barriers to upstream and lakeshore and reduce or eliminate the are protected through the Vermont downstream movement of aquatic filtration functions of the riparian zone. Wetland Rules, and the identification, organisms including fish. Dam operations Runoff from roofs, driveways, lawns, restoration and conservation of important alter the natural flow regime in a way that playing fields and uphill development wetlands is recommended in this plan. can reduce downstream habitat quality can increase shoreline erosion (ANR and quantity. In addition to channel 2005). Improper design and installation Dams in the Watershed adjustments that may affect the structure of shoreline stabilization measures, such As in most of New England, dams of in-stream habitat, additional flow as riprap, seawalls, and grading, can played an important role in the diversion from the bypassed reach of the actually increase erosion and development of the Little Rivers stream can expose streambed substrates, sedimentation along that shoreline. watershed providing power for a number effectively reducing the amount of habitat Unlike rivers, lakes retain 80-90% of of historic mills in the watershed. There area available for aquatic organisms. pollutants that enter them. Runoff from are still a number of dams that provide Dams can also change the temperature of lawns and playing fields on which hydropower in the watershed including the water, and reduce dissolved oxygen fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides are the Bradford Dam, the Barnet Dam, the levels. The customary pre-winter practice used results in toxins and excess Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 15 nutrients, in the form of nitrates and called Local Planning and Zoning Potential funding sources: ANC, Watershed phosphates, entering a lake. An Options for Water Quality Protection, and Grants, CRJC Time-frame: 2009 excessive influx of nutrients causes algal the Vermont League of Cities and Towns blooms which harm native flora and has developed a model guidance to assist Objective: Define levels of mercury fauna and decrease water clarity. Runoff towns in improving protections of these contamination in Harveys Lake and from eroding driveways, roads, paths and important riparian lands in town zoning. Lake Fairlee. increasing development carry nutrients In addition the Agency of Natural and sediment to adjacent waters. Resources has produced riparian buffer guidance which is used in Act 250 17. Evaluate the levels of mercury in Many animal species (birds, reptiles, determinations but is also helpful for Harveys Lake and Lake Fairlee and fish, amphibians and mammals) rely on towns developing shoreland zoning (ANR tailor fish advisories to these results. Potential key players: DEC, DOH, DFW natural shoreland vegetation to breed, 2005). A review of town zoning in Basin Potential funding sources: State funds feed and over winter. Removal of the 14 is in Appendix A7. Communities can Time-frame: 2012 natural vegetation along a lakeshore has also work with landowners on existing negative impacts on this habitat. For developed shoreline to restore riparian Objective: Protect and restore instance, overhanging branches shade vegetation and reduce erosion and wetlands in the Basin 14. shallow water, reducing algal growth, nutrient runoff from these lands. and also provide fish food in the form of 18. Work with conservation commissions COMMON GOAL: PROTECT AND fallen insects. Trees, branches, and to map existing wetlands and wetland RESTORE THE NATURAL leaves that fall in the lake also provide functions and values covering at least important habitat structure to aquatic ENVIRONMENTS OF LAKES AND PONDS IN BASIN 14 TO SUPPORT half of the towns in the watershed. organisms (ANR, 2005). Use this information to prioritize the WATER QUALITY, RECREATION AND AESTHETICS. protection or restoration of wetlands There are a number of ways that in the watershed. communities can protect or restore Objective: Prevent the spread of Potential key players: conservation commissions. lakeshore vegetation. On lakes and aquatic and riparian invasive species in VT Wetlands Section ponds with undeveloped shoreline, Basin 14. Potential funding sources: UCM&E, CRJC PG, Watershed Grant conservation measures can protect Time-frame: ongoing natural shoreline through land purchases 16. Hold a Vermont Invasive Patrollers or conservation easements. Another tool workshop in Basin 14 and form survey 19. Complete one wetland protection or for protecting existing riparian lands is groups to patrol the watershed to town zoning with language requiring the restoration project in Basin 14. identify and control new riparian or Potential key players: VT Wetlands Section, maintenance of riparian buffers, and aquatic species populations before they UVLT, conservation commissions. building setbacks. The Agency of are well established. Potential funding sources: UCM&E, CRJC PG Natural Resources (2002) has developed Potential key players: lake associations, VIP, DEC Time-frame: 2012 a reference for guiding towns in this area - AIS, NEKISI

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 16 Objective: Increase the length of natural flow conditions in Basin 14.

20. Identify existing dams which are no longer used in the watershed and are candidates for removal. Remove one dam in Basin 14 and restore the natural flows and riverine habitat. Potential key players: Dam Task Force, CRWC, Hydrology Program, private dam owners Potential funding sources: UCM&E Time-frame: 2012

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 1 – Introduction and Common Concerns in Basin 14 17 Connecticut River, the Stevens River goes Chapter 2 - The Stevens under Interstate 91 then is impounded by the Barnet Dam just above Route 5 in the River Watershed center of Barnet. After flowing free for a short stretch after the Barnet dam, the Section 2-1 Watershed Stevens River meets the backwater of the Description Connecticut River caused by McIndoes Dam. At the confluence with the The Stevens River flows into the Connecticut River, the Stevens River Connecticut River in Barnet and its flows through a wetland complex watershed covers about 49 square miles in that provides flood storage and area mostly in Peacham and Barnet, but wildlife habitat along the with small portions in Danville and Connecticut River Ryegate as shown in Figure 2-1. The corridor. origin of the river’s waters are the tributaries that flow from the eastern sides of Lookout Mountain and Macks Mountain into Willow Brook and from the wetlands and ponds in the northern part of Peacham including Ewell Pond to form Peacham Hollow Brook (East Peacham Brook on the USGS map). The other major tributary to the Stevens River is South Peacham Brook, which drains Land Use tributaries and ponds on the eastern side The dominant of Morse Mountain, Devils Hill, and Figure 2-1. The land cover type Jennison Mountain and includes Martins, Stevens River in the Stevens watershed. Mud and Fosters ponds. The southern River Stevens River watershed is Jewett Brook watershed, River, which which flows through extensive wetlands according to then flows east to before entering Harveys Lake which then data from the Vermont Land Cover the Connecticut River drains into South Peacham Brook in West Classification Project (1997), is deciduous, collecting water from a Barnet. Peacham Hollow Brook and coniferous or mixed forest covering 68% of few small streams, the South Peacham Brook join about a mile the watershed area. Agricultural land use is largest of which is Cloud east of West Barnet to become the Stevens a distant second with 5,151 acres or 17% of Brook. On its way to the

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 2 – The Stevens River Watershed 18 the watershed in either row crops, hay, as a working power museum which is swimming, boating, fishing, wildlife orchards, or other agricultural activities. strongly supported by the local community. viewing, and an indirect source for drinking Developed land covers 7% or 2,275 acres There are at least 13 historical dams in the water. Waters in the Stevens River of the watershed of which 5% is roads, watershed of which many (including watershed are protected in order to support highways and other transportation uses. Threshers mill dam) have been breached or uses valued by the public including Surface water covers 5% of the watershed have washed away entirely. A number of the swimming, boating, and fishing. Some and wetlands cover the remaining 3% dams in the watershed are located at lakes uses are protected specifically if the (DEC 1999). There are numerous large and ponds. An example of this is Harveys Agency of Natural Resources identifies and significant wetlands in the Stevens Lake dam, which has an unusual design them as existing uses under the anti- River watershed. The largest wetland in where the dam is not at the natural degradation policy of the Vermont Water the watershed, surrounding Jewett Brook, lake outlet but was instead sited downstream Quality Standards (VWQS § 1-03). is mostly within the Roy Mountain below South Peacham Brook. This situation Existing uses in Basin 14 are listed in Wildlife Management Area. can cause water to flow back into the lake Chapter Six in tables 6-1 through 6-3 on from South Peacham Brook during periods of page 83. Just less than 5% of the Stevens River high flow. This arrangement may have watershed is permanently conserved as historically worked well for mills in West Swimming part of the Roy Mountain Wildlife Most of the swimming in the Stevens River Management Area and the Groton State watershed is in the many lakes and ponds in Forest. These protected lands make up the watershed. The most popular of these is large portions of the Martins Pond and the Barnet Town Beach at Harveys Lake. Harveys Lake watersheds, and include the There are also a few informal swimming or shoreline of Mud Pond in Peacham. wading holes in the Stevens River and tributary streams used by local residents. Dams in the Watershed Like most of New England, dams played Figure 2-2. Ben Threshers Mill Boating Most of the boating in the Stevens River an important role in the development of Barnet but has lead to concerns about watershed occurs on the lakes and ponds. the Stevens River watershed providing nutrients entering Harveys Lake from South Harveys Lake has a large number of boats power for a number of historic mills in the Peacham Brook and has sparked efforts to during the summer months, with fewer watershed. This history is still visible at modify the dam to prevent these backflows. Ben Threshers Mill which was built in boats at Martins, Fosters, and Ewell ponds. 1872 as a dye and print works and hosted Water-based Resources a number of businesses, until the dam Fish Habitat and Fisheries Although the Stevens River watershed is washed away in the 1970s. The mill is There is a diversity of fish habitat in the small, its waters play a large role in the currently owned by the Ben’s Mill Trust lakes and streams in the Stevens River community providing opportunities for for the purpose of restoring the mill to use watershed. Harveys Lake covers just 351

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 2 – The Stevens River Watershed 19 acres but is a very deep lake supporting contributed an average of 3000 smolts sculpin, creek chub, and brown trout populations of lake and rainbow trout annually to the Connecticut River basin (Kratzer 2007). which draw anglers from the surrounding outmigration, roughly 3.6/unit. area. The smaller Ewell Pond and Martins A large falls in Barnet Village probably Irrigation and Animal Watering Pond are stocked with rainbow trout and prevented Atlantic salmon from accessing the According to the AAFM approximately brook trout respectively. The Stevens Stevens River in the past, but it is used as a 34% of known surface water withdrawals River is stocked with brook and brown nursery stream as compensation for the vast and 45% of known ground water trout by the Vermont Department of Fish amounts of mainstem spawning and nursery withdrawals in Caledonia County are used and Wildlife (DFW) from South Peacham habitat that have been destroyed. The idea of for irrigation of vegetables, orchards, and Brook to the confluence with the the nursery stream is to stock salmon fry, other crops. These statistics may be Connecticut River and very few wild trout hoping that they will survive and grow into considerably different for the Stevens River are found within this stretch of river. smolts and migrate out to the ocean. as this is only a small portion of the county, Brown trout will be replaced with rainbow Returning adult salmon currently can ascend but are still a significant use of waters in trout starting in 2010. Both Peacham as far up the Connecticut River as the dam at the watershed. Hollow Brook and South Peacham Brook Dodge Falls in East Ryegate, about 4 miles are managed as wild brook trout fisheries upstream of the mouths of the Wells and Drinking Water Supplies (Kratzer 2007). Ammonusooc Rivers. Upstream fish passage Drinking water in the Stevens River may be required at the Dodge Falls and watershed is supplied by private wells, and The Stevens River is stocked with Atlantic McIndoes dams in the future, allowing public groundwater sources covering the salmon fry as part of an effort to restore salmon access to the lower Stevens River. villages of Peacham and Barnet. No salmon to the Connecticut River basin. Salmon will not be able to ascend into to the surface waters are designated as public The Stevens mainstem contains an upper Stevens and Wells rivers because of water supplies. Surface waters are likely estimated 829 100-meter2 units of salmon the dams or falls close to their confluence used for drinking supplies by an unknown rearing habitat. Over the past 5 years an with the Connecticut River. It is the number of private residencies and seasonal average of 25,000 fry have been stocked intention that these nursery streams will camps in the watershed. annually, at an average density of 31/unit. boost the total numbers of salmon returning Typically it takes salmon fry two years to to the Connecticut River and ascending the attain smolt (migratory) size. Growth rates accessible tributaries. of salmon have been consistently higher in the Stevens River than in any other Northeast Kingdom salmon nursery Fish species collected in the Stevens River stream, to the extent that in some years during our annual salmon sampling include: young salmon are reaching smolt size and Atlantic salmon, brook trout, longnose dace, leaving after only a single year. Over the longnose sucker, pumpkinseed, blacknose past 5 years, the Stevens River has dace, white sucker, common shiner, slimy

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 2 – The Stevens River Watershed 20 Section 2-2 Improving Water monitoring at Harveys Lake and Fosters and nutrient enrichment. Quality Awareness in the Martins ponds. Harveys Lake and Fosters Pond are sampled on a weekly basis during The State of Vermont also monitors many Stevens River Watershed the summer season for water clarity, lakes for phosphorus in the spring. This Understanding the existing conditions of chlorophyll, and phosphorus. Water includes the three lay monitoring lakes as surface waters is one of the first steps in sampling results in these three lakes indicate well as Ewell Pond which is classified as any water quality protection program. The that these bodies of water are mesotrophic mesotrophic. These databases establish a meaning they have a moderate level of reference point from which to measure DEC monitoring strategy is described on 0.5 0.18 page 3 but this section includes specific 8/21/2005 Event Chemistr y Stevens River Watershed water quality information related to the 0.45 0.16 PH01 and SR01 Stevens River watershed as well as efforts 0.4 0.14 to provide this information to the wider 0.35 community. 0.12 0.3 0.1 Lake Monitoring Including Lay 0.25 0.08 Monitoring and Spring Phosphorus 0.2 0.06 Testing 0.15

Existing water quality sampling in the (in) Precipitation 0.1 0.04 Stevens River watershed includes lay 0.05 0.02 (m3/s) Discharge at SR01 10000 0 900 8/21/05 3:00 AM 8/21/05 4:00 AM 8/21/05 5:00 AM 8/21/05 6:00 AM 8/21/05 7:30 AM 8/21/05 9:15 AM 8/21/05 4:00 PM 800 Time(hr) 700 600 Phos_PH01 500 Phos_SR01 400 300 200 100 Total(ug/l) Phosphorous 0 3:00 AM 4:00 AM 5:00 AM 6:00 AM 7:30 AM 9:15 AM 4:00 PM

Figure 2-3. Dave Magnus and Ron Miller taking Figure 2-4. Rainfall, flow and phosphorus levels measured during a rainfall event at Peacham Hollow water samples on Peacham Hollow Brook. Brook (PH 01) and South Peacham Brook (SR 01) near their confluence. The upper graph shows rainfall (bars) and stream discharge (line) (Peacham Conservation Commission 2005). Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 2 – The Stevens River Watershed 21 future changes in water quality. The often the case in rivers in Vermont, were the consequently phosphorus and turbidity citizen lake monitors, together with the sampling results from a storm event which levels were not nearly as high. In spite of Lake Association, share a strong interest showed high levels of phosphorus and this, the phosphorus and turbidity levels in improving the lake's water quality and elevated turbidity seen in Figure 2-4. The measured still indicate an increase in have worked to reduce nutrient runoff sediment and phosphorus in the Stevens from roads in the watershed. The citizen River during rainfall events. lake monitors have also assisted DEC in identifying exotic invasive species. GOAL: ESTABLISH BASELINE WATER Stevens River Watershed Council QUALITY MEASUREMENTS OF THE Water Quality Monitoring Project STEVENS RIVER WATERSHED AND The Stevens River Watershed Council PRESENT THIS INFORMATION TO THE PUBLIC. began a volunteer monitoring program in 2005 for the purpose of developing an overall picture of water quality in the watershed and providing this Objective: Identify reference reaches information to the public. The in the Stevens River watershed. monitoring program was completed in In the development of a watershed-wide partnership with the Peacham picture of water quality, certain surface Conservation Commission and with waters in their natural condition are funding through the Connecticut River identified as reference waters. The Joint Commissions (CRJC) partnership condition of all other surface waters can then be judged based on their deviation grant and analytical services provided Figure 2-5. Stevens River water quality through the LaRosa analytical partnership monitoring sample sites. from the condition of these reference program. Samples were taken for total waters. nitrogen, nitrate/nitrite, phosphorus, levels were as much as fifty times as high as chloride, and turbidity along with those during the dry weather sampling. 21. Use all available good quality data on dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH and These sources of sediment entering the river the physical, chemical, and biological flow. Five sites were sampled, two on during storm events should be a priority for values of the waters, and collect any Peacham Hollow Brook, one on South restoration efforts in the Stevens River additional necessary data in the Peacham Brook and two on the Stevens watershed. A follow up monitoring program watershed to establish reference reaches. River. During routine sampling, all of was completed in 2007 capturing three storm Potential key players: Peacham Conservation Commission, DEC these parameters were well with in the events in the summer and fall. The storm events that were captured during 2007 were Potential funding sources: LaRosa, CRJC PG ranges expected in a healthy Vermont Time-frame: 2009 river system. The exception to this, as is not as large as the event sampled in 2005 and

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 2 – The Stevens River Watershed 22 Objective: Expand and consolidate Section 2-3 Nonpoint Source water quality priority. A priority site in monitoring data in the watershed to Pollution in the Stevens River Peacham was improved in 2006, which provide a complete picture of the Watershed included extensive roadside ditching, current water quality conditions. seeding and mulching, the replacement of Nonpoint source pollution was the top rated several key culverts, and the stabilization of 22. Provide results of water quality testing concern in the Stevens River watershed a serious headcut that was causing sediment and information about the water quality including runoff from roads, developed loading into the nearby stream (see Figure of the watershed to the public through lands, agricultural lands, and associated with 2-6). The Town of Peacham received schools, the web, and the local library. logging operations. These topics are funding from the Better Backroads program Potential key players: Stevens River Watershed discussed in detail in Sections 1-3 and 1-5 of to conduct a road erosion inventory and Council, school, libraries, local media this plan on pages 4 and 10, but included in capital improvement budget. The Potential funding sources: CRJC PG this section is a description of road projects CCNRCD was hired to conduct the Time-frame: 2009 and agriculture in the Stevens River inventory and analysis of 15 key sites. The watershed. inventory includes an assessment of the 23. Continue lay monitoring programs in current conditions at the site such as culvert the watershed. In 2012 follow up on Road Projects, Bridge and Culvert Surveys adequacy assessments, levels of erosion 2005 and 2007 stream sampling to and Capital Improvement Budgets for the and sedimentation, and distance to nearby determine if success has been made in Stevens River Watershed waterways. The report makes addressing sources of sediment and A number of water quality related road recommendations for improvements at each phosphorus, and to look into any new projects have been completed or are in the site and outlines estimates of costs. threats to water quality in the Stevens works in the Stevens River watershed. The River watershed. Caledonia County Natural Resources In 2006 the Town of Peacham received a Potential key players: Peacham Conservation Commission, Stevens River Watershed Council Conservation District (CCNRCD) met with Clean and Clear watershed planning grant Potential funding sources: LaRosa, CRJC PG road commissioners from Peacham and to address erosion and stormwater runoff Time-frame: 2012 Barnet in 2006 as part of the Partners for Fish issues at the town garage. This project and Wildlife Program with funding provided reduced erosion from three locations of the by the Upper Connecticut River Mitigation town garage that drain into Peacham and Enhancement Fund. During each visit, Hollow Brook. water quality priorities were reviewed and windshield surveys were conducted in each A bridge and culvert survey of the Stevens town to review the town’s priorities for road River watershed was completed in 2004 by work and water quality goals. In Barnet, the Northeast Vermont Development several undersized culverts were selected as Association in cooperation with Lyndon problem sites. In Peacham, road erosion and State College. roadside ditching proved to be the greatest

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 2 – The Stevens River Watershed 23 Agriculture in the Stevens River runoff, manure storage, leachate collection). Potential funding sources: town funds, Municipal Watershed The remaining seven projects are for field Stormwater Mitigation Grant Time-frame: 2009 Agriculture gives the Stevens River practices (e.g. stream bank stabilization, stream crossing). The total cost of these watershed much of its character. It also Objective: Reduce nonpoint pollution practices is $315, 916 with the Vermont supports the economic base, cultural from the agricultural, developed, and Agency of Agriculture, USDA, EPA and identity, and patchwork landscape of open rural landscape. and forested lands so highly valued in the landowners all contributing a share. (See page 6 for basin-wide strategies) watershed. In addition, as agricultural land is converted to suburban GOAL: REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF SEDIMENT AND NPS POLLUTION 26. Participate in the Source to Sea clean up development, there is generally a net to clean up trash and historical dump increase in nutrient production, so keeping ENTERING THE STEVENS RIVER. sites along the river’s edge. Work with well managed agricultural land in active local communities to reduce the number production can sustain better water of abandoned cars along the Stevens quality. Farm land makes up 17% of the Objective: Reduce conflicts between road infrastructure and the Stevens River, River and in the Stevens River Stevens River watershed and much of the watershed. farm land is located along streams and reducing pollution and long term maintenance costs. Potential key players: Peacham Conservation rivers. Farm productivity involves the Commission, community volunteers, CRWC spreading of nutrient rich fertilizers and (See page 12 for basin-wide strategies) Potential funding sources: NEKWMD, CRWC manures, so good management practices Time-frame: 2010 on farms are an important part of reducing 24. Support the creation of an active NPS pollution in the watershed. Appendix conservation commission in Barnet to act A3 has a complete description of as advocates for the watershed including agriculture in the Stevens River such things as supporting driveway and watershed. private road ordinances, following up on bridge and culvert surveys and seeking Many farms in the Stevens River funding. watershed have installed Best Potential key players: selectmen, planning commissions, interested citizens Management Practices or BMPs, which Potential funding sources: NA are voluntary practices to correct a current Time-frame: 2012 waste management problem on a specific farm. To date, 22 projects or Best 25. Evaluate runoff from the Peacham and Management Practices have been initiated Barnet municipal sand piles and cover if in the Stevens River watershed (AAFM needed. 2007a). Fifteen projects are for Potential key players: selectmen, road foremen production area practices (e.g., barnyard

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 2 – The Stevens River Watershed 24 Section 2-4 River Corridor Management in the Stevens River Watershed As described in Section 1-4 of this plan (on page 7) river corridor management is one of the top issues in Basin 14. This is also true in the Stevens River watershed where the Caledonia County Natural Resources Conservation District (CCNRCD) has completed a Phase 1 geomorphic assessment of the Stevens River watershed and has nearly finished the Phase 2 assessment for the entire main stem of the Stevens River, Peacham Hollow Brook up to East Peacham, and the South Peacham Brook up to the Peacham – Danville Road.

The assessments results still need to be updated, analyzed and written up, but initial results have shown that a number of stream reaches are going through the evolution process shown in Figure 1-3 on Figure 2-6. The Stevens River from Barnet School to Karme Choling where the river has page 8. This includes the section of degraded its bed and shows evidence of planform adjustment (rapid channel migration). Stevens River above the Barnet Dam, which is currently aggrading or building (shown in Figure 2-6) shows signs of cutting causing large scale erosion and sediment up its bed probably caused by the down into its bed in addition to increased deposition in this valley. This section of backwater behind the dam, but could also erosion and channel movement, called river is the focus of a corridor protection be related to increased sediment entering planform adjustment. The cause of these and restoration project and will likely this reach from upstream reaches. adjustments is unclear but may be related to continue to progress through the stream the river working its way through sediments evolution process until it creates a new The section of the Stevens River that runs deposited when the Stevens River watershed floodplain at a lower elevation. Allowing from the Barnet School to Karme Choling was originally deforested over 200 years ago, the river to complete this evolution process

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 2 – The Stevens River Watershed 25 will eventually lead to the restoration of cause instability. This plan would include a the river’s equilibrium condition where the process for selecting and implementing river 28. Protect land along the Stevens River river will be able to store sediment and corridor management projects and provide a where there are existing riparian buffers, flood waters, and provide improved basis for corridor protection through various significant wetlands, or where land is aquatic habitat. land use planning and incentives programs. important to maintaining the rivers stability as determined by the Another stream in the watershed that Riparian Restoration geomorphic assessments and future river shows signs of degradation is South A number of river corridor restoration corridor plan. Peacham Brook from the Harveys Lake projects in the Stevens River watershed have Potential key players: private landowners, UVLT, Dam downstream about a mile to where been initiated in recent years. The Barnet municipalities, CCNRCD, Peacham Conservation Commission the brook leaves the open farm fields and School on the upper end of the reach of river Potential funding sources: UCM&E, VHCB, enters into the woods. This degradation pictured in Figure 2-6 has planted a riparian USDA may be related to the trapping of sediment buffer along the Stevens River on school Time-frame: 2012 behind the Harveys Lake Dam, creating an property. In addition a buffer restoration imbalance in sediment and flow in the project was completed at the confluence of Objective : Increase the participation of river below (as shown in Figure 1-2). The the Peacham Hollow Brook and South the public and towns in stream corridor banks of South Peacham Brook have also Peacham Brook by the CCNRCD. Finally protection. been armored as it passes through West the NRCS completed an extensive CREP Barnet and this could have contributed to project including fencing and tree plantings In Vermont, the protection of riparian the degradation by keeping floodwaters in along Cloud Brook. habitat is largely the responsibility of local the channel, increasing stream power and landowners through the application of good therefore erosion. South Peacham Brook GOAL: MAINTAIN AND WHERE NEEDED, management practices on riparian lands and could benefit from limiting future bank RESTORE THE EQUILIBRIUM CONDITION town governments through town planning armoring and restoring the sediment OF THE STEVENS RIVER. and zoning. regime on this reach of river. Objective: Identify and protect stable 29. Present Phase 1 and 2 geomorphic River Corridor Planning and Fluvial reaches. assessment results to the general public Erosion Hazard Mapping and riparian landowners to expand The results from the geomorphic 27. Complete Phase 1 and Phase 2 public understanding of river dynamics assessments can be used to develop a river geomorphic assessments of the Stevens including best practices to promote corridor plan for the Stevens River which River watershed including an analysis of stable streams. will be important to restoring or the results and a final report. Potential key players: CCNRCD, RMP, towns maintaining the Stevens River’s Potential key players: CCNRCD, RMP, Potential funding sources: UCM&E equilibrium condition by reducing current Potential funding sources: UCM&E, RCG Time-frame: 2009 and future constraints on the river that Time-frame: 2009

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 2 – The Stevens River Watershed 26 30. Develop a river corridor plan for Barnet Section 2-5 Lakes and Dams in and Peacham to develop conservation In addition to aquatic invasive species there and restoration priorities. the Stevens River Watershed are also a number of wetland and riverbank Potential key players: CCNRCD, RMP, towns, Residents of the Stevens River watershed are exotic invasive species, including purple DEC, selectboards, Peacham Conservation fortunate to have many lakes and ponds in loosestrife, phragmites, and Japanese Commission Potential funding sources: UCM&E, RCG the watershed including: Harveys Lake, knotweed which can reduce the quality of Time-frame: 2011 Martins Pond, Fosters Pond, Ewell Pond, and aquatic habitats and spread along river Mud Pond. With the exception of Harveys corridors. A project was completed at the 31. Create minimum consistent zoning that Lake, these ponds still have large amounts of Peacham Town Garage with the assistance would protect rivers in the watershed undeveloped shoreline, and all of the lakes of the Peacham Conservation Commission through setbacks and riparian buffer provide unique recreational opportunities in 2005/2006 to eradicate the invasive ordinances, and flood hazard zones and important aquatic habitat. The main species phragmites from the site due to the overlay districts. concerns about lakes and ponds in the high potential of spread by town road Potential key players: CCNRCD, RMP, Towns, watershed include nutrient enrichment, exotic equipment. DEC, selectboards, Peacham Conservation species, acidification and toxins, dams and Commission, NVDA water level fluctuations, and lakeshore Shoreline Protection Potential funding sources: UCM&E, RCG Time-frame: 2012 protection and enhancement which are all While recreational uses abound in the vast described in detail in Section 1-6 of this basin majority of Vermont’s lakes, Vermonters Objective: Recognize reaches of the plan on page 12. The impacts of dams on only have a handful of lakes in which they Stevens River where it is out of rivers are also discussed in this section. can experience the type of recreational equilibrium and where needed, restore opportunities that wilderness lakes can Exotic Invasive Species riparian vegetation. offer. In order to ensure that Vermonters of today and the future can have access to the In the Stevens River watershed exotic wilderness lake experience, it is important 32. Implement restoration or corridor invasive species education programs include to have a lake protection and conservation protection projects at the Barnet School the Harveys Lake greeter and boat wash strategy. In addition, undeveloped and on other reaches identified through program that staffs a monitor at peak use lakeshores provide critical wildlife and the geomorphic assessments and river times to inspect boats and to provide aquatic life habitat. corridor planning process. information to boaters. Other important Potential key players: Local landowners, RMP, efforts at Harveys Lake include the lakeshore CCNRCD watch which also increases awareness and As part of DEC’s strategy to protect Potential funding sources: 319, UCM&E, tree can catch invasive plants and animals before remaining wilderness lakes and ponds, programs, CREP, RCG they become unmanageable. To keep these lakes in Vermont have been rated based on Time-frame: 2012 species out of the watershed it will be their wilderness or wilderness-like increasingly important that the lake and pond characteristics. The only pond rated on this associations work together. scale in the Stevens River watershed is

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 2 – The Stevens River Watershed 27 Mud Pond, which has an undeveloped GOAL: PROTECT AND RESTORE THE Potential key players: Lake Associations, Land shoreline owned by the State of Vermont NATURAL ENVIRONMENTS OF LAKES Trusts, DEC, planning commissions and has a wilderness-like rating of 10 out AND PONDS IN THE STEVENS RIVER Potential funding sources: Watershed Grant, CRJC WATERSHED TO SUPPORT WATER PG of 10. Martins Pond has about 1/3 of its Time-frame: 2009 shoreline undeveloped, much of which is QUALITY, RECREATION AND AESTHETICS. within Groton State Forest. Fosters Pond (See page 15 for basin-wide strategies) Objective: Prevent the spread of aquatic is largely undeveloped and Ewell Pond, and riparian invasive species to the near the headwaters of Peacham Hollow Stevens River watershed. Brook, has only scattered development. Objective: Protect areas of existing

For all four of these ponds protecting the natural lakeshore and on developed 36. Continue efforts of the Harveys Lake natural shoreline will maintain the natural lakeshores, increase riparian vegetation Association to prevent invasive species feel of these ponds and help to protect and reduce erosion and nutrient runoff. spread through use of the boat wash and their natural integrity. 33. Ensure the protection of portions of boater education. Potential key players: Harveys Lake Association, DEC The largest body of water in the watershed undeveloped shorelines on Fosters, Ewell, - AIS is Harveys Lake at 351 acres. While much and Martins Ponds through voluntary Potential funding sources: ANC of the Harveys Lake shoreline is already conservation of at least one property on Time-frame: ongoing developed, efforts can be made to these lakes and ponds. encourage development in the future that Potential key players: State of Vermont, VRC, Towns 37. Increase the level of communication of Barnet and Peacham, Planning commissions. between lake associations and residents will protect the water quality of the lake Potential funding sources: VHCB and maintain some of the remaining Time-frame: 2012 to prevent spread of invasive species natural feel of the lake by leaving a into the watershed. Send out a mailing protective buffer around the lake. 34. Maintain existing shoreline vegetation to lake and pond residents about exotic through the creation of shoreline zoning species and other common lake and The Town of Peacham has a shoreland with vegetated buffers for all watershed pond issues. zoning district providing for setbacks and Potential key players: Lake Associations, DEC - AIS, towns. DEC buffer vegetation to address septic, scenic, Potential key players: State of Vermont, Towns of Potential funding sources: ANC, local fundraising and runoff issues. Barnet has shoreland Barnet and Peacham, Planning commissions, VLCT. Time-frame: 2009 regulations for 12 bodies of water Potential funding sources: Time-frame: 2012 requiring setbacks and limiting some development near lakeshores but does not Objective: Prevent, eliminate or reduce 35. Hold a workshop or series of workshops include any language for vegetative the negative impacts of dams and water on lakeshore management to cover such buffers. withdrawals in the Stevens River topics as buffer restoration and low impact watershed. lawn care and landscaping.

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 2 – The Stevens River Watershed 28 38. Address the issue of the back flow of Altered Waters or Waters in Need of water from South Peacham Brook into Section 2-6 Impaired and Further Assessment Harveys Lake. Altered Waters in the Stevens There are other waters that fall outside the Potential key players: Harveys Lake Association, scope of impaired waters but have not met DEC River Watershed Potential funding sources: water quality standards or are of concern Time-frame: 2012 The Agency of Natural Resources is for other reasons. The waters listed in Table responsible for maintaining water quality in 2-1 are waters that fall outside the scope of 39. Continue ongoing discussions between each waterbody in accordance with the the list of impaired waters but include the Ben’s Mill Trust and state and Vermont Water Quality Standards. Water concerns or problems identified by the federal regulators on alternatives for quality is determined using biological, Stevens River Watershed Council, DEC, repowering the historical Ben physical, and chemical criteria for each water the public or other entities. There are two Threshers Mill. quality management class. The Department bodies of water listed as waters of concern Potential key players: Ben’s Mill Trust, DEC, F&W, of Environmental Conservation monitors in the Stevens River watershed because US F&W surface waters for conformance with numeric they are in need of further assessment. Potential funding sources: Local Fundraising, and narrative water quality criteria to historic preservation grants, CLG document violations and determine use Time-frame: 2012 attainment. This process is outlined in the DEC publication 2006 Vermont Surface Water Assessment Methodology Including Vermont Listing Methodology (DEC 2005). If DEC has sufficient evidence to conclude a water is not achieving water quality standards than the water is listed as impaired. There are no water bodies listed as impaired in the Stevens River watershed.

Table 2-1. Local waters of concern (Including waters in need of further assessment) in the Stevens River watershed (DEC 2007b). Waterbody Reason for Concern Status Current or Future proposed Actions Strategy # STEVENS RIVER (US SEDIMENT, MORPHOLOGICAL Phase 1 assessment complete, • Assessment results will be analyzed in the future. 25-30 RT 5 UP TO I-91) INSTABILITY Phase 2 assessment in progress • Upstream restoration and protection projects may reduce sediment entering this reach of river HARVEYS LAKE WATER LEVEL MGMT MAY TOWN IS EXPLORING DAM 36 (Barnet) IMPAIR AQUATIC MODIFICATIONS HABITAT

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 2 – The Stevens River Watershed 29 River in the village of Wells River (DEC Chapter 3 – The Wells 1999).

River The South Branch of the Wells River is the Watershed other significant tributary, in addition to Red Brook and the North Branch. It arises Section 3-1 Watershed in Noyes Pond and flows for approximately 7 miles before it joins the Wells River Description mainstem between West Groton and The Wells River watershed lies Groton. immediately south of the Stevens River watershed and its area is There are seven large lakes and ponds in approximately 99 square miles or the Wells River watershed including 63,400 acres. The headwaters of Lake Groton (422 acres), Kettle Pond this drainage area arise in part (109 acres), Ricker Pond (95 acres), on the slopes of Blake Hill, Ticklenaked Pond (54 acres), Owlshead Mountain, Spice Osmore Pond (48 acres), Noyes Mountain, Kettle Mountain Pond (39 acres), and Levi and Little Spruce Mountain Pond (20 acres). all in Groton State Forest and flow either into Kettle and Osmore Ponds or form brooks that flow into Groton Lake or Ricker Pond. Drainage from the slopes of Devils Hill, Jennison Mountain, Jerry Lund Mountain and Wesson Hill form Red Brook and the North Branch Wells River, which are two of Figure 3-1. the three largest tributaries to the The Wells River Wells. watershed

The Wells River begins below Lake Groton and Ricker Pond and flows southeasterly through Groton, South Ryegate and the northern portion of Newbury before meeting the Connecticut

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 3 – The Wells River Watershed 30 Groton State Forest and Levi Pond The dominant land cover type in the Wells two hydroelectric dams, the Boltonville Wildlife Management Area River watershed according to data from the Dam, and the Adams Paper Company Dam, Vermont Land Cover Classification Project both on the main stem of the Wells River. These two state lands make up 28% of the (1997) is forest with 81.5% of the watershed Both of these dams were privately Wells River watershed including the or 49,995 acres as deciduous, coniferous or redeveloped for hydropower generation in majority of the Wells Rivers headwaters. mixed forest. The agricultural component is the 1980s. Unfortunately, the flows The management of such a large part of the much smaller in the Wells River watershed provided in the bypassed reach at watershed has a large impact on the water than the Stevens River watershed with only Boltonville Dam (Wells River quality in the rest of the Wells River as it 7.6% or 4660 acres in agricultural uses. Hydroelectric Project) are insufficient to flows to the Connecticut River. As stated Surface water and wetlands together cover support aquatic biota, angling, and in the draft Groton Management Unit Long 6.7% or 4111 acres of the watershed. aesthetics in accordance with the levels set Range Management Plan, land in Vermont Water Quality Standards. management in the state forest will protect There are numerous large and significant water quality to the greatest extent wetlands in the Wells River watershed. The Water-based Resources possible. From a watershed standpoint, largest wetland, Peacham Bog, is entirely The tributaries, and associated lakes, ponds state lands function as forested buffer zones with in the Groton State Forest and is and wetlands in the watershed support that play an important role in maintaining protected, but there are many smaller aquatic life and habitat and provide water quality, protecting riparian, lake, and wetlands on private property that also recreational opportunities through their wetland habitats, and protecting floodplain provide important functions and values. fisheries, swimming beaches, boating runs, and wetland flood storage areas reducing and aesthetics. In addition, the surface flood potential downstream (ANR 2007). Developed land (residential, commercial, waters provide drinking water and industrial and transportation) covers 4.2% of irrigation supplies. The fundamental In addition, Osmore, Kettle, Noyes, and the watershed or 2550 acres. Most of the purpose of protecting water quality in Levi Ponds are all within the State Park or developed land is transportation use (DEC Vermont is to protect these and any other Wildlife Management Area (WMA) and 1999). beneficial uses and values of the water. the State forest makes up a vast majority of Waters in the Wells River watershed are the watersheds of Groton and Ricker Dams in the Watershed protected in order to support uses valued by ponds. The Groton State Forest and Levi Like most of New England, dams played an the public including swimming, boating, Pond WMA also provide for a wealth of important role in the development of the and fishing. Some uses are protected recreational opportunities including Wells River watershed providing power for a specifically if the Agency of Natural fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, cross number of historic mills in the watershed. Resources identifies them as existing uses country skiing, birding and camping. There are at least 13 dams in the watershed under the anti-degradation policy of the There are also many unique habitats in the more than half of which are still operational. Vermont Water Quality Standards (VWQS state forest including one of the largest Many of these dams are at the outlets to lakes § 1-03). Existing uses in Basin 14 are bogs in Vermont, Peacham Bog. and ponds in the watershed. There are also

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 3 – The Wells River Watershed 31 listed in Chapter Six in tables 6-1 through an entirely wild population of brook trout refugia in the Wells River and its tributaries 6-3 on page 83. that sustains a high quality fishery are a (Kratzer, 2007). Swimming rarity. Noyes Pond is a limited-entry fishery. Many of the lakes and ponds in the Angling is prohibited in the tributaries to Lake Groton, and Ricker and Ticklenaked watershed are used for swimming Noyes Pond, for the purpose of maintaining ponds are regularly fished for warm water including Lake Groton, Ricker Pond, them as a spawning and nursery refuge (ANR species including smallmouth bass, Kettle Pond and the Ticklenaked Pond. In 2007). Streams in the Groton State Forest largemouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow addition, there are a number of informal and many of the other upland streams in the perch, brown bullheads, and sunfish. sites on the Wells River and tributary Wells River watershed including Keenan and Excessive nutrient levels in Ticklenaked streams where swimming is common but Tannery Brooks, provide wild self-sustaining Pond have caused dissolved oxygen levels these are not catalogued in this basin plan. populations of brook trout at an abundance that are too low to support fish life in the

Boating level and growth rate high enough to attract depths. The majority of boating in the watershed angling interest. Other lakes in the watershed occurs on lakes and ponds. In addition, and the Wells River are stocked with trout The Wells River is stocked with Atlantic some locations on the Wells River are species. Levi and Osmore ponds are stocked salmon fry as part of an effort to restore used for whitewater kayaking including with brook trout while Kettle Pond is stocked Atlantic salmon to the Connecticut River. the stretch of river near the Fish and with rainbow trout. The Wells River is The Wells River is used as a nursery Wildlife access on the Wells River in stocked by the Vermont Department of Fish stream, as compensation for the vast Newbury. and Wildlife (DFW) with brown trout from amounts of mainstem spawning and nursery the outlet of Ricker Pond to the confluence habitat that have been destroyed. The idea Fish Habitat and Fisheries with the South Branch of the Wells River and of the nursery stream is to stock salmon fry, The Wells River watershed provides a again from South Ryegate Village almost to hoping that they will survive and grow into diversity of fishing opportunities ranging the confluence with the Connecticut River. smolts and migrate out to the ocean. from warmwater fish species in some of Brown trout will be replaced with rainbow Returning adult salmon currently can the large lakes including Lake Groton, and trout starting in 2009. Brook trout are ascend as far up the Connecticut River as Ricker and Ticklenaked ponds, to self stocked from the confluence of the South the dam at Dodge Falls in East Ryegate, sustaining brook trout fisheries in Noyes Branch of the Wells River to South Ryegate about 4 miles upstream of the mouths of the Pond and many headwater streams. As Village. The Wells River starts out warm Wells and Ammonusooc rivers. Salmon noted in the Draft Groton Management because it flows from Ricker Pond, but will not be able to ascend into to the upper Unit Long Range Management Plan, tributaries like the South Branch of the Wells Wells River because of the dams close to Noyes Pond is a remarkable fishery River help to cool it as it flows further down its confluence with the Connecticut River. resource not only within the Wells River stream. The majority of the Wells River is However, it is the intention that this nursery watershed, but within the entire State of too warm for trout during the summer stream will boost the total numbers of Vermont. Sizable ponds in Vermont that months, but trout can survive in cold water salmon returning to the Connecticut River support, or have the capacity to support, and ascending the accessible tributaries.

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 3 – The Wells River Watershed 32 Section 3-2 Improving Water in lakes and ponds. The Vermont Lay Fish species collected in the Wells River Quality Awareness in the Wells Monitoring Program equips and trains local watershed include: Atlantic salmon, brook River Watershed lake users to measure the nutrient trout, brown trout, largemouth bass, enrichment of lakes by collecting water smallmouth bass, yellow perch, slimy Understanding the existing conditions of samples according to the program's EPA- sculpin, common shiner, longnose dace, surface waters is one of the first steps in any approved Quality Assurance Project Plan. blacknose dace, lake chub, white sucker, water quality protection program. The DEC Lake Groton and Ticklenaked Pond are blacknose shiner, longnose sucker, creek monitoring strategy is described on page sampled on a weekly basis during the chub, pumpkinseed, fallfish, and bluntnose three but this section will include specific summer months for water clarity, minnow (Kratzer, 2007). water quality information related to the Wells chlorophyll, and at Ticklenaked Pond for River watershed as well as efforts to provide phosphorus as well. The citizen lake Irrigation and Animal Watering this information to the wider community. monitors share a strong interest in According to the AAFM approximately improving the lake's water quality and have 34% of known surface water withdrawals Biological Monitoring Sites in the Wells worked to reduce nutrient runoff from and 45% of known ground water River Watershed roads and lands in the watershed. The withdrawals in Caledonia County are used Biological monitoring has been done on six citizen lake monitors have also assisted for irrigation of vegetables, orchards, and sites in the Wells River watershed including DEC in identifying aquatic nuisance other crops. These statistics may be three sites on the mainstem and three sites on species. considerably different for the Wells River tributaries near the Pine Mountain Wildlife as this is only a small portion of the Management Area. All of these sites The State of Vermont also monitors lakes county, but are still a significant use of received ratings of between good and larger than 20 acres for phosphorus in the waters in the watershed. excellent exceeding the Vermont water spring on a rotational basis. All of the quality standards for Class B waters. lakes and ponds in the watershed are Drinking Water Supplies Samples were taken Drinking water in the Wells River again in 2007 but have watershed is primarily from private wells not been analyzed at the and public water supplies from time of publication. groundwater sources such as the supply for the Village of Wells River. No surface Lake Monitoring waters are designated as public water Since 1979, the supplies but surface waters may be used Department of by an unknown number of private Environmental residencies and seasonal camps. Conservation has worked with volunteer monitors Figure 3-2. Spring Phosphorus Levels in Ticklenaked Pond since 1981. to sample the water quality

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 3 – The Wells River Watershed 33 classified as mesotrophic (having a phosphorus levels in the pond but that there Boltonville Land Use Exploration (BLUE) moderate level of nutrients) except for are continuing sources of phosphorus in the Camp and Volunteer Monitoring Ticklenaked Pond, which is classified as watershed which must also be addressed to A local farmer in cooperation with local eutrophic (having a high level of restore Ticklenaked Pond. A TMDL for scientists and the White River Natural nutrients). These data establish a Ticklenaked Pond phosphorus levels will be Resource Conservation District established reference point from which to measure developed in the spring of 2008. the BLUE camp to teach local children future changes in water quality. These about the impacts of various land uses on sampling data as well as sampling data E. coli Monitoring the Boltonville section of the Wells River. from the LMP program have been used to Sampling has also been done in the The land uses studied include farming, classify Ticklenaked Pond as impaired due watershed through a number of programs to Interstate 91, the Newbury Dump, and the to elevated phosphorus levels. Figure 3-2 identify elevated levels of pathogens. High Boltonville Dam. The impacts of this shows high levels of phosphorus in levels of pathogens, generally measured as E. program went beyond the campers through Ticklenaked Pond since the early 1980s as coli, increase the risk of gastrointestinal two presentations to the Newbury relation to the very low phosphorus levels sickness limiting recreational uses of waters. Conservation Commission and through in Lake Willoughby and high phosphorus To protect public health, the State of publicity in local papers. A grant was levels in Shelburne Pond. The Vermont has the strictest standard for E. coli Department of Environmental in the country of 77 colonies per 100 Conservation has also done intensive milliliters of water in any single sample. monitoring of Ticklenaked Pond and all its tributaries in 2005 and 2006 as part of an The Lake Groton Association sampled E. coli EPA funded study. The goal for this study in Lake Groton in the summer of 2003. The is to produce a Total Maximum Daily highest level of E. coli measured was 44 Load (TMDL) for the waterbody. A colonies per 100 ml of water, well below the TMDL allocates pollution from different Vermont standard. The Department of sources in the watershed to ensure Forests and Parks and Recreation also compliance with the water quality samples two beaches on Lake Groton and standards. One of the factors in one site on Ricker Pond for E. coli levels developing the TMDL for Ticklenaked weekly during the summer. Only one sample Pond is to identify whether the main in 245 samples from 1997 to 2004 exceeded Figure 3-3. Campers at the BLUE camp source of phosphorus is from sources in the Vermont E. coli standard suggesting measuring flow of the Wells River. the watershed or from internal loading excellent water quality for these two lakes. from legacy phosphorus stored in E. coli sampling on Ticklenaked Pond has received in 2007 to study how to make the sediments in the pond. The initial results not identified elevated levels but a very small camp sustainable. Recommendations from this study suggest that internal tributary to the lake had levels in excess of included collaboration with local schools, loading is one factor causing high the Vermont E. coli standard in 2006. summer camp programs, or an affiliation

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 3 – The Wells River Watershed 34 with an existing environmental education GOAL: ESTABLISH BASELINE WATER 42. Make annual water quality data easily non-profit. QUALITY MEASUREMENTS IN THE WELLS accessible online and linked to lake RIVER WATERSHED AND PRESENT THIS association and town web sites. Stream and Tributary Monitoring INFORMATION TO THE PUBLIC. Potential key players: DEC, Watershed Council, Additional water sampling was done in the BLUE camp, LMP, lake associations Objective: Provide a complete picture of Potential funding sources: State funds, CRJC PG Wells River and tributaries in 2007 by Time-frame: 2009 local volunteers. This was done with the the current water quality conditions through expand monitoring. assistance of Tom Smith and equipment Objective: Increase the involvement of used by his environmental science class at students and volunteers in collecting Blue Mountain School. A number of sites 40. Expand the volunteer monitoring program water quality data. with a minimum of monthly sampling of were sampled for turbidity, phosphates, turbidity, oxygen, conductivity, pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen and 43. Involve one class of students and temperature and pH along the main stem temperature. In addition, the students volunteers in watershed sampling such of the Wells River. from Blue Mountain School completed as macroinvertribate sampling, chemical water quality sampling. Potential key players: volunteers, Newbury Conservation Commission, DEC, Wells River sampling, or fish surveys. Watershed Council Potential key players: Wells River Watershed Water Quality Data Management Potential funding sources: Borrow equipment from Council, Blue Mountain School, libraries Not all of the data from the Vermont neighboring watershed groups, LaRosa, EPA Potential funding sources: LaRosa Lakes and Ponds Program, the Vermont Time-frame: 2008 Time-frame: 2008 Biological Monitoring and Assessment Lab, and studies done by local lake Objective Make water quality testing 44. Continue the BLUE camp by associations and watershed organizations results easily available to members of the establishing partnerships between local is currently compiled and made available watershed schools and summer programs. Continue its mission of informing local online for easy public use. DEC is students and the local community of the currently working to make this data 41. Alert the public to any alarming water relationship between land use and water available through an online environmental quality data or trends in the results by quality. mapping program. Making this data getting this information to lake Potential key players: Wells River Watershed accessible to the general public would not associations, municipalities, newspapers Council, WRNRCD, UVM watershed Alliance only inform local residents but this and other interested parties. Potential funding sources: Sustainable future grants, information may also encourage Potential key players: DEC, Watershed Council, CRJC PG, Ducks or Trout Unlimited, local funding landowners to take action to address any DFPR, BLUE camp, LMP, other volunteers Time-frame: 2012 of the problems that are demonstrated by Potential funding sources: State funds, CRJC PG, Time-frame: ongoing the water quality data.

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 3 – The Wells River Watershed 35 Section 3-3 Nonpoint Source (7.5% of the watershed) is smaller than that animals. The remaining seven projects are Pollution in the Wells River of the Stevens River watershed. Despite this, for field practices (e.g. stream bank Watershed there is a strong agricultural community in stabilization, stream crossing) of which the watershed which supports the local three have been completed. The total cost Nonpoint source pollution was the top economy and community. Appendix A4 has of these practices is $151,026 with the rated concern in the Wells River a complete description of agriculture in the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, USDA, watershed including runoff from Wells River watershed. EPA and landowners all contributing a developed lands, agricultural lands, and share to the total cost. associated with logging operations. One Much of the agricultural land in this specific concern which came up during the watershed is along the Wells River and a few GOAL: REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF planning process was a number of old smaller tributaries that flow in from the north SEDIMENT AND NON POINT gravel pits in the watershed where gravel including Tannery Brook, Darius James POLLUTION ENTERING THE WELLS could easily wash into surface waters. Brook and the Ticklenaked Pond outlet RIVER. There are also concerns with leachate stream. As agricultural land is converted to (See page 6 for basin-wide strategies) from the Newbury Landfill along the suburban development, there is generally a banks of the Wells River and a small net increase in nutrient production, so Objective: Reduce levels of NPS landfill on the northern banks of the Wells keeping well managed agricultural land in pollution from the agricultural, River where waste from a local paper mill active production can sustain better water developed, and rural landscape. has been dumped. quality. The location of agricultural land along streams and rivers and the spreading of 45. Monitor the Newbury Landfill and paper Common basin 14 NPS issues are nutrient rich fertilizers and manures make mill disposal site for leachate into the discussed in detail along with common good management practices on farms an Wells River and address any concerns as strategies for Basin 14, in Section 1-3 of important part of reducing NPS pollution in they are found. Provide information to this plan on page four. Included here is a the watershed. landowners about proper handling of description of agriculture in the Wells historical dump sites on their property. River watershed. A complete description Many farms in the Wells River watershed Potential key players: Conservation commissions, of agriculture in the Wells River have installed Best Management Practices selectboards, Vermont Waste Management Division watershed is included in Appendix A4. (BMPs) which are voluntary practices Potential funding sources: installed to correct a current waste Time-frame: ongoing Agriculture in the Wells River Watershed management problem on a specific farm. In Agriculture gives the lower Wells River the past 10 years, 19 BMPs have been 46. Identify gravel pits in the watershed and valley much of its character, although initiated in the Wells River watershed. work with landowners to revegetate any much of the headwaters of the watershed Twelve projects are for production area gravel pits that are causing are forested. The proportion of the Wells practices (e.g., barnyard runoff, manure sedimentation in the Wells River. Potential key players: DEC, conservation commissions River watershed that is in agricultural use storage, leachate collection) covering 493

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 3 – The Wells River Watershed 36 Potential funding sources: WHIP Section 3-4 Wells River Stream Objective: Protect stable reaches, Time-frame: 2008 intact floodplain, and forested river Channel Instability and Aquatic corridors. 47. Encourage low impact development Habitat standards to reduce stormwater runoff As described in Section 1-4 on page seven of from commercial developments and this plan, river corridor management is one of 48. Complete Phase 1 geomorphic local villages. the top issues in Basin 14. This is also true in assessments of the Wells River Potential key players: Conservation commissions, the Wells River watershed where residents in watershed and Phase 2 geomorphic town selectboards, TRORC, NVDA, DHCA, DEC the Town of Newbury have expressed an assessments with a priority of the Potential funding sources: 604b following Six locations: Time-frame: ongoing interest in developing an FEH overlay district for the town. A meeting was held in 2006 to ! discuss this possibility and completing the the S curves above West Groton where Phase 2 geomorphic assessment on the Wells bank has been armored; ! River in the town of Newbury will be a around possible impacts from dams on priority to capitalize on this interest. There Lake Groton and Ricker Ponds; ! are also reaches of the Wells River that have in Groton Village; ! experienced high rates of erosion and this has near South Ryegate on reaches where the been a concern for many members of the Route 302 has been moved; ! watershed council, particularly in locations above and below the interstate bridge; and ! where the river flows near gravel pits. in the Town of Newbury to provide the Members of the watershed council have also basis for FEH mapping. Potential key players: CCNRCD, NVDA, RMP been interested in improving the quality of Potential funding sources: UCM&E, RCG aquatic habitat in the watershed and Time-frame: 2009 maintaining access to the Wells River. 49. Protect floodplains identified through The CCNRCD received a grant in 2007 to the geomorphic assessments as complete a Phase 1 geomorphic assessment important for maintaining the stability of of the entire Wells River watershed and a the Wells River. Work with land trusts Phase 2 assessment of portions of the Wells to include language in conservation River watershed. easements that protect floodplains and buffers for maintaining or restoring GOAL: MAINTAIN AND, WHERE NEEDED, stream stability. RESTORE THE EQUILIBRIUM CONDITION Potential key players: UVLT, RMP, VRC, OF THE WELLS RIVER. conservation commissions Potential funding sources: UCM&E, VHCB Time-frame: 2012

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 3 – The Wells River Watershed 37 52. Encourage and advise towns on including 50. Protect and provide public access to minimum building setbacks and natural 56. Identify, prioritize and restore unstable unique features along the river. The buffers along streams in town plans and reaches as determined by Phase 1 and 2 Wells River has many waterfalls, zoning. Help to coordinate between towns geomorphic assessments. historical mill sites, and beautiful areas to provide consistent protection for the Potential key players: NVDA, CCNRCD, towns, where it is important to maintain public Wells River for its entire length. riparian landowners access to help keep people connected Potential key players: NVDA, TRORC, VLCT Potential funding sources: UCM&E with the river. Some of these sites Potential funding sources: 604b Time-frame: 2012 include: Time-frame: As town plans and zoning are revised

! Boltonville Falls 53. Develop and implement an FEH overlay ! the chutes and historical foundations at the district for the Town of Newbury, and Fish and Wildlife Access begin this process in other towns in the ! Access to the Wells River from the Wells watershed. Potential key players: NVDA, TRORC, Newbury,

River Railroad Groton and Ryegate selectboards, planning Potential key players. conservation commissions, commissions, and conservation commissions VRC, UVLT, CVT, Historic preservation Potential funding sources: RCG, UCM&E Potential funding sources: VHCB, Town Time-frame: 2012 Conservation Funds Time-frame: 2012 54. Provide information to the public about the importance of riparian buffers. Potential key players: conservation commissions, Objective: Encourage increased SEWER, CCNRCD participation from the public and Potential funding sources: CRJC PG, Watershed Grant towns in stream corridor protection. Time-frame: 2010

51. Develop a river corridor plan for the Objective: Restore the Wells River in Wells River watershed to reduce unstable reaches and on reaches without human river conflicts and to protect sufficient buffers. buffers of an appropriate width for the river type. 55. Restore the riverbank along the Longmore Potential key players: NVDA, TRORC, pit and adjacent historical gravel pits. selectboards, CNRCD Potential key players: NVDA, WRNRCD, Town of Potential funding sources: RCG, UCM&E Newbury, landowners Time-frame: 2010 Potential funding sources: UCM&E, USACE Time-frame: 2012

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 3 – The Wells River Watershed 38 Section 3-5 Transportation- Bridge and Culvert Surveys and Capital the location of culverts with help from the Related Water Quality Issues in Improvement Budgets Lyndon State College. In addition culverts the Wells River Watershed An inventory of existing bridges and culverts in a portion of the watershed were surveyed can help to prioritize the replacement of in 2006 using new in-depth survey Transportation-related water quality issues structures that are most likely to fail, protocols developed by the Agency. Using were rated as one of the top concerns in constrain the water way the Wells River watershed. This issue and and exacerbate flooding Table 3-1. Priority Culverts for replacement in the surveyed portions of the related strategies for all of Basin 14 are problems or block fish Wells River Watershed in Groton and Ryegate. The percent bankfull width discussed in detail in Section 1-5 of this passage. All of the towns is the width of the culvert as compared to the bankfull width of the stream and is an indicator of the degree to which a culvert is undersized. plan on Page 10. in the Wells River % of watershed have mapped Priority Road Stream Structure # Bankfull 1 HARV ORR North Branch 70000601660304X 50% Groton RD Wells River 2 RED Red Brook Trib 70000703680304X 38 % Groton BROOK RD 3 HARV ORR North Branch 70000601640304X 38 % Groton RD Wells River Trib 4 HARV ORR North Branch 70000601620304X 50 % Groton RD Wells River Trib 5 Tannery Brook GREAT RD 70000401310304X 50 % Groton Trib 6 North Branch GREAT RD 70000401550304X 75 % Groton Wells River Trib 7 MINARD Tannery Brook 70000202230304X 60 % Groton HILL RD Trib 1 QUINT RD Wells River Trib 70006301570310X 38 % Ryegate 2 HALL RD Wells River trib 70000603240310X 47 % Ryegate 3 RENFREW Wells River trib 70003702520310X 40 % Ryegate DR 4 WITHERS Wells River trib 70000502250310X 57 % Ryegate POON RD 5 GILFILLAN Wells River Trib 70004400920310X 75 % Ryegate RD Figure 3-4. Bridges and culverts surveyed in 2006 with priorities for replacement

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 3 – The Wells River Watershed 39 this protocol the size and configuration of Objective: Reduce conflicts between Section 3-6 Lakes and Dams in the 49 bridges and culverts in the Wells River bridges and culverts and the Wells River. Wells River Watershed watershed were surveyed to determine: if they were large enough to accommodate 57. Complete ANR bridge and culvert surveys of Residents of the Wells River watershed are the flows of the stream, if they allowed for the watershed and compile this information fortunate to have many lakes and ponds in the passage of sediment that is necessary for use by towns to prioritize bridge and the watershed including: Lake Groton, to maintain a stable stream, and if they culvert replacement. Work with town road Ricker Pond, Osmore Pond, Kettle Pond, provided for the passage of fish and commissioners and the district fisheries Noyes Pond, Levi Pond, Ticklenaked Pond wildlife. This survey was done in close biologist during the survey to focus efforts on and Tenney Pond. Many of these ponds collaboration with the road commissioners priority areas of the watershed. Potential key players: NVDA, ANR, Town road still have large amounts of undeveloped in Groton and Ryegate, and a prioritization commissioners shoreline, and all provide for unique of culverts for replacement was made, Potential funding sources: 604b, 319, RCG recreational opportunities and host shown in Figure 3-4 and Table 3-1. Time-frame: 2010 important aquatic habitat. The main Table 3-1 shows the culverts that were concerns about lakes and ponds in the ranked as priorities for replacement based watershed include nutrient enrichment, on the degree to which they were exotic species, acidification and toxins, undersized, caused up and downstream dams and water level fluctuations, and erosion or deposition, had poor alignment, lakeshore protection and enhancement and were barriers to fish passage. which are all described in detail in Section 1-6 of this basin plan on page 12. The In the summer of 2007 a clean and clear impacts of dams on rivers are also grant was provided to the Town of Groton discussed in this section.. and the number one priority culvert was replaced. Funding through the Partners Nutrient Enrichment for Water Quality Program has been The issue of nutrient enrichment has been secured to replace an additional top discussed in Sections 3-3 and 3-4 of this priority culvert in Groton. plan and is a concern in most developed lakes and ponds. As shown in Figure 3-5 GOAL: MINIMIZE CONFLICTS nutrient levels are of particular concern in BETWEEN STREAMS’ NATURAL Ticklenaked Pond, which is currently listed FUNCTIONS AND as impaired because of elevated phosphorus TRANSPORTATION levels which are described in Section 3-2. INFRASTRUCTURE. The Ticklenaked Pond Association has (See page 12 for basin-wide strategies) been working to clean up sources of

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 3 – The Wells River Watershed 40 phosphorus in the watershed using a from this source. Table 3-2. Phosphorus reduction scenarios for Ticklenaked Pond watershed grant from the State of Alternative Resulting Predicted water Vermont. Projects included buffer The draft TMDL (described on page phosphorus quality improvement concentration plantings, beaver baffle installation, 33) analysis of Ticklenaked Pond shows agricultural Best Management Practice Treat watershed and ~17 ppb Major – Likely to that the lake receives approximately internal load (final load meet standards implementation, and road improvement 204 kg of phosphorus per year, of 92 kg ) projects. In addition, a number of which: 111 kg are derived from Treat watershed load ~33 ppb Minor –not likely to agricultural projects have been completed nonpoint watershed sources; 86 kg from only (final load 178 kg) meet standards in the watershed to reduce nutrient input Treat internal load ~ 24 ppb Moderate – may meet internal recycling of “legacy” only (final load 118 kg) standards in certain phosphorus; four kg from direct rainfall years, will likely fail in Spring Phosphorus Summer phosphorus contributions; and three kg from septic few years Do nothing up to 45 ppb None TICKLENAKED contributions. Current estimates (current load 204 kg) EWELL indicate that alternatives aimed at reducing phosphorus loading between 39 and on top of the treated surface would MUD (PEACHM) 126 kg/yr will yield water quality certainly overwhelm the capacity of the MUD (THETFD) improvements and reduced in-lake treatment to adsorb phosphorus in a short HARVEYS phosphorus concentrations, as shown by timeframe. Accordingly, it is important FAIRLEE Table 3-2. The alternative shown in Table 3- that meaningful watershed loading controls precede execution of an internal lake MARTINS 2 treating both the internal and watershed treatment. NOYES phosphorus loading is the most likely to

Lake result in attainment of water quality ABENAKI Landuse phosphorus export modeling LEVI standards. Treating either the watershed loading or internal loading separately will indicates that much of the phosphorus OSMORE show moderate improvements in water discharging from the watershed is KETTLE quality, but as they are complimentary attributable to agricultural land uses. RICKER actions, implementing both options together Several issues are presently being GROTON will produce the most sustainable addressed through a partnership between the Natural Resources Conservation FOSTERS improvements. Treating internal loading is Service and farm operators, which will MILLER commonly done by chemical inactivation of significantly reduce phosphorus discharge NORFORD sediment-phosphorus release mechanisms, where the inactivation seals legacy to the Ticklenaked Pond watershed. 0.00 10.00 20.00 30.00 40.00 50.00 Additional measures to address loading Total phosphorus (ppb) phosphorus into the lake sediments. Such a treatment alone with out watershed loading from developed lands in the watershed will Figure 3-5. Total phosphorus in Basin 14 ponds reductions would be a temporary measure at be necessary to reduce watershed loading from spring phosphorus and summer LMP data enough to meet water quality standards. showing one standard error bars. best, as continued phosphorus accumulated

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 3 – The Wells River Watershed 41 These efforts will be done in cooperation low Alkalinity and a pH measured at 5.8 in 58. Ensure the protection of portions of with the Ticklenaked Pond Association, 2003. This pH level is low enough to likely undeveloped shorelines on Groton, the CCNRCD, the Town of Ryegate, and impair the biotic community. This issue is Ricker, and Ticklenaked Ponds through watershed residents. discussed in detail in Section 1-6 on page 13. voluntary conservation of at least one property along these lakes and ponds. Exotic Invasive Species Lakeshore Protection and Enhancement Potential key players: lake associations, land trusts, To prevent the introduction of invasive The Wells River watershed has three ponds State of Vermont, planning commissions, VLCT Potential funding sources: VHCB species, wash stations have been installed that are rated as wilderness like by the Time-frame: ongoing at Stillwater State Park (Lake Groton) and Vermont DEC including Osmore, Kettle and Ricker State Park (Ricker Pond). There Levi ponds which are located in the Groton 59. Maintain existing lakeshore vegetation are still concerns with the possible State Forest and Levi Pond Wildlife through the creation of shoreline zoning transport of Eurasian watermilfoil at Management Area (DEC 1994). There are in all watershed towns including Boulder Beach on Lake Groton , and at the only 55 lakes with this status in the state. language on vegetated lakeshore buffers. informal access at the southern end of Ricker Pond, Lake Groton, and Ticklenaked Potential key players: State of Vermont, Towns of Ricker Pond. Both of these sites are used Pond also have areas of undeveloped Groton, Ryegate and Newbury, planning for car top boat access and do not have shoreline. To protect lakeshores, efforts can commissions, VLCT boat washes. In the case of the southern be made to encourage development in the Potential funding sources: Time-frame: 2012 end of Ricker Pond, there is no signage. future that will protect the water quality and maintain the natural feel of the lake by 60. Hold a workshop or workshop series on The Lake Groton Association conducts leaving a protective buffer around the lake. lakeshore management to cover such searches within the lake to detect early topics as buffer restoration and low GOAL: PROTECT AND RESTORE THE infestations, and there are informational impact lawn care and landscaping. NATURAL ENVIRONMENTS OF LAKES brochures and posters at the entrance to Potential key players: lake associations, DEC, Stillwater State Park and the Groton AND PONDS IN THE WELLS RIVER conservation commissions Nature Center. In addition to this, sections WATERSHED TO PROTECT WATER Potential funding sources: CRJC PG, Watershed of the Association’s book All About Lake QUALITY, RECREATION AND Grant AESTHETICS. Groton and the Association’s web site, Time-frame: 2009 (See page 15 for basin-wide strategies) grotonpond.com, include information about Eurasian watermilfoil and other Objective: Prevent the spread of invasive exotic invasive species. Objective: Protect areas of existing species to watershed lakes, ponds and natural lakeshore and on developed rivers. Low pH Ponds lakeshores, increase riparian buffers and Levi Pond is one lake particularly reduce erosion and nutrient runoff. 61. Continue efforts of the Lake Groton susceptible to low pH in the Wells River Association to prevent invasive species watershed. Levi Pond is impaired due to

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 3 – The Wells River Watershed 42 spread through use of boat washes, Potential funding sources: EPA deemed necessary in the TMDL and inspections and boater education. Time-frame: 2008 supported by the local community, seek Potential key players: DFPR, DEC-AIS, lake funding to complete an internal associations 64. Identify the primary watershed sources of sediment-phosphorus inactivation Potential funding sources: Watershed Grant, ANC phosphorus in the Ticklenaked Pond Time-frame: ongoing treatment in Ticklenaked Pond to watershed through land-use modeling, address the internal loading of stream and watershed surveys and through 62. Increase communication between the phosphorus. community outreach efforts and develop a Potential key players: TNPA, DEC, CCNRCD, State Parks, the Lake Association, and plan to reduce annual watershed Ryegate Selectboard, local congressional and state the Town of Groton and develop new phosphorus loading by 26 kilograms (57 legislative representatives efforts such as a sticker program or pounds) or the amount required in the Potential funding sources: EPA, legislative appropriations at the State or National level boat launch “greeter” monitoring final Ticklenaked Pond TMDL. Time-frame: 2009 program for Lake Groton and Ricker Potential key players: TNPA, DEC, NRCS, CCNRCD, Pond. Ryegate Selectboard and Road Commissioner Potential key players: Lake Associations, DEC- Potential funding sources: EPA, UCM&E, Watershed 67. If necessary implement sediment- AIS, DFPR, Town of Groton, CCNRCD Grant, Better Backroads Grant, CRJC PG, 319, C&C phosphorus treatment, including Potential funding sources: Watershed Grant, ANC Time-frame: 2008 completion of necessary planning and Time-frame: ongoing permitting processes. 65. Work with the local community and Potential key players: TNPA, DEC Objective : Reduce phosphorus levels in partners to address each major source of Potential funding sources: EPA, legislative Ticklenaked Pond to meet Vermont phosphorus identified in the watershed appropriations at the State or National level Water Quality Standards. study. Likely efforts will include working Time-frame: 2011

with watershed residents to improve 63. Finalize the TMDL for Ticklenaked shoreline management practices, improve Pond in cooperation with the roads and driveways to reduce erosion, Ticklenaked Pond Association, reduce the use of fertilizer, and continued CCNRCD, NRCS, and Town of work with the agricultural community to Ryegate. The TMDL will lay out reduce phosphorus loading. necessary watershed phosphorus Potential key players: TNPA, DEC, NRCS, CCNRCD, loading reductions needed to meet Ryegate Selectboard and Road Commissioner Potential funding sources: EPA, UCM&E, Watershed water quality standards as well as the Grant, Better Backroads Grant, CRJC PG, 319, C&C potential need for internal treatment to Time-frame: 2009 address internal loading of phosphorus in Ticklenaked Pond. 66. Once commitments have been made to Potential key players: TNPA, DEC, NRCS, reduce phosphorus loading in the CCNRCD, Ryegate Selectboard Ticklenaked Pond watershed and if,

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 3 – The Wells River Watershed 43 Quality Standards are listed as impaired. To low alkalinity but has a TMDL which was Section 3-7 Impaired and be listed as “impaired” and included in the approved in 2004. This is discussed in Altered Waters in the Wells EPA- Approved List of Impaired Surface sections 1-6 and 3-6. River Watershed Waters, the violation of the Vermont Water Quality Standards must be substantiated by Altered Waters or Waters in Need of The Agency of Natural Resources is data collected through chemical, physical Further Assessment responsible for maintaining water quality and/or biological monitoring and the cause or There are other waters that fall outside the in each waterbody in accordance with the stressor most likely responsible for the scope of impaired waters but have not met Vermont Water Quality Standards. Water impairment identified. This process is water quality standards or are of concern quality is determined using biological, outlined in the DEC publication 2006 for other reasons. There is one body of physical, and chemical criteria for each Vermont Surface Water Assessment water listed in need of further assessment in water quality management class. The Methodology Including Vermont Listing the watershed. The Wells River below the Department of Environmental Methodology. Newbury Landfill is listed as in need of Conservation monitors surface waters for further assessment because of leachate from conformance with numeric and narrative Ticklenaked Pond is the only water on the the landfill. water quality criteria to document 2006 303(d) list of impaired waters in the violations and determine use attainment. Wells River Watershed. Ticklenaked Pond is Waters that are determined to be below the listed as impaired due to elevated phosphorus biological, physical or chemical water levels, as discussed in detail in section 3-6 of quality criteria of the Vermont Water this plan. Levi Pond is impaired because of

Table 3-3. Impaired waters in the Wells River watershed (DEC 2007a)

REASON FOR SURFACE WATER SEGMENT POLLUTANT USE(S) IMPAIRED WATER QUALITY ACTIONS TO RESTORE WATERS NAME/DESCRIPTION PROBLEMS • TMDL study is in progress to determine the proportion of TICKLENAKED POND PHOSPHORUS AESTHETICS, ALGAE BLOOMS, HIGH PH, (Ryegate) AQUATIC LIFE LOW D.O. internal and external phosphorus loading (strategy 61&62) SUPPORT, • BMP implementation at farms in the watershed through CONTACT the EQIP Program has been started and will continue to be RECREATION a priority (strategies 2 & 3) • BMP implementation on Developed lands (strategy 63) • If needed complete internal phosphorus treatment. (strategies 64&65)) ATMOSPHERIC • This water was included in the Acid Lake TMDL LEVI POND (Groton) DEPOSITION: AQUATIC LIFE ATMOSPHERIC DEPOSITION: EXTREMELY SENSITIVE SUPPORT submitted and subsequently approved by EPA in TO ACIDIFICATION; September 2004. Monitoring is ongoing to track this EPISODIC impairment.

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 3 – The Wells River Watershed 44

Table 3-4 Local waters of concern (including waters in need of further assessment) in the Wells River watershed (DEC 2007b) Waterbody Reason for Concern Status Current or Future proposed Actions

WELLS RIVER NEWBURY LANDFILL TESTING FROM DAY (Newbury) LEACHATE ENTERING CAMP STUDIED • Newbury Blue camp testing (strategy 41) SURFACE WATER VIA LEVELS • Continue DEC monitoring of groundwater GROUNDWATER

UNKNOWN SOURCE OF TICKLENAKED POND BACTERIA • Sampling for E. coli levels during TMDL study of Ticklenaked Pond suggest (Ryegate) CONTAMINATION removal of this from the 2008 list of priority waters • Survey small tributary to Ticklenaked Pond for sources of E. coli

COMMUNITY CONCERNS WELLS RIVER ACT 250 RESTORATION RELATED TO EROSION (Newbury) PLAN HAS BEEN • Completion of the ACT 250 streambank restoration plan. FROM GRAVEL PIT APPROVED • Phase 2 Geomorphic Assessment planed for this reach of river (strategy 46) OPERATIONS ADJACENT TO THE WELLS RIVER

WELLS RIVER INADEQUATE FLOW AND FERC EXEMPTION (BELOW STRUCTURAL • Address with exemptee or through FERC process (strategy 66) BOLTONVILE DAM) ALTERATIONS IN DAM’S (Newbury) BYPASS

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 3 – The Wells River Watershed 45 northeasterly meeting the Waits River Chapter 4 – The Waits on the eastern edge of Bradford.

River Watershed The Waits River drainage is dominated by forested land Section 4-1 Watershed covering 84.3% of the Description watershed or 84,348 acres. Agriculture is a distant The Waits River originates below the second land use slopes of Signal, Burnt and Butterfield with only 8.2% of Mountains in the southern part of the watershed, or Groton State Forest. It is 23 miles approximately 8,177 long and flows southerly for about 8 or acres, used for 9 miles before taking a turn and agricultural flowing southeasterly for 14 or 15 purposes. miles before entering the Connecticut Developed River in Bradford. The total drainage land, primarily area of the watershed is transportation, approximately 144.3 square miles accounts for 4.7% or 92,400 acres. of the total

watershed or The two largest tributaries to the Waits River are the South Branch and the Tabor Branch. The Tabor Branch is 10 miles long and drains 28.4 square miles or 18,180 acres. It flows from the base of the hills in northwestern Topsham south, southeast then south again converging with the Waits River just below East Corinth. The South Branch of the Waits River is 10 miles long and drains 44 square miles or approximately 28,160 acres. The South Branch is formed by the confluence of Cookville and Meadow Brooks in the southeastern part of Corinth and flows easterly then Figure 4-1. The Waits River watershed. Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 4 – The Waits River Watershed 46 approximately 4689 acres. Surface electricity and is managed as a run-of- Swimming water covers 1.4% of the watershed or the river dam (meaning that the dam There are a number of informal 1439 acres and wetlands cover 1.3% of does not store and release water) but swimming holes in the Waits River the watershed or 1334 acres. there is a bypass reach which has low watershed. water levels impacting the habitat of this About 4.2% of the Waits River reach of river. The Bradford Dam was Boating watershed is permanently conserved as redeveloped by CVPS in 1981-82 and is Canoeing and kayaking were identified part of the Groton and Washington State regulated by the Federal Energy as important uses during public forums Forests, the Bradford, Fairlee, and Regulatory Commission under an in the Waits River watershed. The Orange Town Forests, and the exemption. mainstem of the Waits River is used for Washington Wildlife Management Area. white water kayaking during high water The Groton State Forest is the largest Water-based resources and is rated as highly important in a block of conserved land covering nearly The tributaries, and associated lakes, survey of whitewater rivers in Vermont 3% of the watershed in the headwaters ponds and wetlands in the watershed (Jenkins and Zika 1992). The Waits of the mainstem of the Waits River. support aquatic life and habitat and River below the Bradford dam receives Additional lands have been conserved as provide recreational opportunities moderate usage for flat water boating part of the Orange County Headwaters through their fisheries, swimming and as an access point to the project. These conserved areas provide beaches, boating runs, and aesthetics. In Connecticut River. Boaters also canoe a variety of watershed benefits including addition, the surface waters provide in this location to view the abundant protection of water quality and upland drinking water and irrigation supplies. wildlife in the wetlands at the and aquatic habitat as well as public The fundamental purpose of protecting confluence with the Connecticut River. access to water resources. water quality in Vermont is to protect In addition, a Connecticut River Water these and any other beneficial uses and Trail campsite is located adjacent to the Dams in the Watershed values of the water. Waters in the Waits Fish and Wildlife Access on the Waits Like most of New England, dams played River watershed along with all surface River and draws boaters up from the an important role in the development of waters in Vermont are protected in order Connecticut River into the Waits River. the Waits River watershed providing to support uses valued by the public power for a number of historic mills in including swimming, boating, and Fish Habitat and Fisheries the watershed. Most of these historic fishing. Some uses are protected Fisheries investigations conducted since dams have been washed out over time absolutely if the Agency of Natural the 1950s have shown that the Waits and now the Waits River and its major Resources identifies them as existing River supports dense populations of tributaries are free flowing with the uses under the anti-degradation policy of brook trout in smaller streams in the exception of the Bradford Dam, which is the Vermont Water Quality Standards upper watershed with fewer brook and visible from Route 5 in the Town of (VWQS § 1-03). Existing uses in Basin brown trout downstream. Survey results Bradford and is the largest dam in the 14 are listed in Chapter Six in tables 6-1 indicate a general increasing trend in the watershed. This dam is used to generate through 6-3 on page 83. brook trout population in the upper

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 4 – The Waits River Watershed 47 watershed over the last 50 years. Vermont Management Plan for Brook, Strategic Plan for the Restoration of Naturally reproducing rainbow trout, Brown, and Rainbow Trout (DFW Atlantic Salmon to the Connecticut common in many other Vermont rivers, 1993). Catchable sized rainbow trout River Basin (Connecticut River Atlantic have not been detected by surveys in are stocked each spring in the lower Salmon Commission 1998). The Waits recent years. Below the Bradford Dam, reaches to provide angling opportunities. River watershed supports approximately the Waits River enters the backwaters of 5.1% of the available anadromous the Connecticut River and supports a Temperature and habitat loss are thought salmon nursery habitat within Vermont number of fish species including bass, to be limiting factors to coldwater fish and approximately 2.4% of the available pike, and perch present in the upper populations in the Waits River below salmon nursery habitat within the entire Connecticut River (Humling 2007). West Topsham as well as in the lower Connecticut River Basin. Atlantic Creel surveys are an important tool used South and Tabor Branches. salmon fry are stocked annually and by fisheries managers to gather specific Temperatures above trout species’ evaluated throughout the lower Waits information from recreational fisheries. preferred range are regularly exceeded River watershed (Humling 2007). In creel surveys, anglers are interviewed during the summer in the mainstem. about their fishing day. Information Much of the Waits River mainstem is Irrigation and Animal Watering collected is used to estimate species characterized by a wide, shallow stream According to the AAFM approximately caught, total angler participation, catch channel with limited riparian trees and 24% of known surface water rate, and harvest. A creel survey vegetation. Loss of streamside trees and withdrawals in Orange County are for conducted in 2000 by DFW indicated vegetation leads to channel instability, irrigation while an almost insignificant that angling pressure is low in the upper erosion, sedimentation of spawning amount of ground water is used for this watershed and moderate throughout the gravels, loss of instream cover, loss of purpose. These statistics may be remainder of the watershed. This shading and heightened water considerably different for the Waits information, related to fish inventory temperatures. Habitat fragmentation River watershed do to differences in survey information, is used to support associated with improperly designed and characteristics of this watershed with and guide management decisions. installed stream-crossing structures may other areas of the county. Vegetables, also be a limiting factor in trout orchards, and other crops are all Current fisheries management of the populations. supported by limited irrigation. Waits River aims at protecting wild trout populations while providing recreational Additional fisheries management Drinking Water Supplies fisheries through the stocking of focuses on protecting existing habitat Drinking water in the Waits River hatchery-raised trout where wild through public outreach and watershed is primarily from private populations are insufficient to support participation in the regulatory process, wells and the public Bradford Village them. No stocking of the upper and assessing aquatic organism passage water system supplied by groundwater. watershed, where healthy populations of through stream crossing structures. The Mill Pond Brook covering portions of wild brook trout occur, has taken place Waits River watershed is identified as Fairlee, West Fairlee and Bradford is since 2000, in accordance with The providing important habitat in the reserved as an emergency surface water

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 4 – The Waits River Watershed 48 supply for the Village of Bradford. and River Bend Career and Technical Other surface waters may be used by an Center. Sites sampled by the schools unknown number of private residences suggests E. coli and seasonal camps. contamination may be an issue in some locations along Water Quality in the Watershed the Waits River, but this needs Water quality data from the Waits River to be confirmed with more watershed comes from a number of precise sampling techniques. different sources. This includes Biological monitoring by the biological monitoring data from the River Bend Career and Department of Environmental Technical Center has Conservation at ten different locations in shown healthy the watershed (see Figure 4-2). macroinvertebrate Biological monitoring is done by communities. characterizing the macroinvertebrate and/or fish communities and using the Issues related to fisheries integrity of these communities to infer in the Waits River the water quality of the stream. As seen watershed include elevated in Figure 4-2, most of the sites in the temperatures, erosion and watershed are rated as very good to sedimentation, limited riparian excellent. Pike Hill Brook has four vegetation, and barriers to fish sample sites listed as poor due to movement (DFW 2000). The pollution from the abandoned Pike Hill DFW has monitored water mines. The monitoring site on a temperatures on the main stem tributary to the Tabor Branch in of the Waits River Topsham is also listed as poor. These during the summers of locations are discussed in detail in 2000, 1981 and 1962 Section 4-6, Impaired and Altered and found that Waters. temperatures often

exceed 75° F, which is the Figure 4-2. Biological Monitoring results on the Waits River Other sources of water quality data in temperature that can be lethal the watershed include fish surveys and to trout over extended periods of time. on these measurements, the temperature temperature monitoring done by the During the summer of 2000, nine days of the Waits River likely exceeds 80 Department of Fish and Wildlife as well were in excess of this temperature and degrees on a least a few occasions as sampling done by local schools this was considered a cool year. Based during warmer years and remains above including the Waits River Valley School

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 4 – The Waits River Watershed 49 75 degrees for extended periods of time Section 4-2 Water Quality results can’t be used by the state to (DFW 2000). Outreach in the Waits River officially identify impaired waters, but One major factor that may be increasing are used to identify where state sampling temperatures on the Waits River is Watershed should be done to follow up on areas physical condition of the river and its Understanding the existing conditions of that are potential issues in the banks. The Waits River is wide and surface waters is one of the first steps in watershed. Both schools have identified shallow for a river of its size, which, any water quality protection program. E. coli at levels which may be a concern along with limited riverbank vegetation, This section includes specific and warrant further investigation, while increases the amount of solar warming information related to the Waits River biological sampling has generally that the river receives. The poor watershed as well as efforts to provide indicated good water quality. physical condition of the river also can this information to the wider watershed lead to erosion which threatens private community. The State of Vermont Public Field Trips and Events property, and causes sedimentation and monitors water quality through Another approach to increasing a reduction in the quality of the habitat biological and chemical monitoring and awareness in the watershed around in the river. These conditions have working with outside groups and water quality issues and solutions is resulted in the listing of the Waits River volunteers as explained in sections 1-2 through hosting field trips and local from the South Branch to the and 4-1 of this plan on pages 3 & 51. events focused on watershed issues and Connecticut River as in need of further solutions. In the summer of 2006, two assessment due to sediment, temperature School Monitoring Programs field trips were organized by the caused by habitat alteration, channel Both the Waits River Valley School and Bradford and Corinth conservation widening, erosion, and land runoff the River Bend Career and Technical commissions as part of the Go with the (DEC 2006). This is discussed further in Center have water sampling programs Flow series. These trips focused on Section 4-4. with local students. These programs wetlands at the mouth of the Waits present great educational opportunities River and land use and its relation to Improper design or installation of for students and the community, but also fisheries and the physical condition of culverts may present migration barriers provide additional information about the the South Branch of the Waits River. to fish and other aquatic organisms in quality of waters in the Waits River These two trips were well attended and the watershed. Insufficient flows within watershed. The sampling done by these provided information on the functions culverts, excessive jump heights at programs differs between the schools and values of wetlands and the culvert outlets, or excessive water but together includes sampling for relationship between agricultural and velocities within culverts can each macroinvertrabrates, E. coli, turbidity, forestry practices and stream create migration barriers year-round or and nutrients including phosphorus and geomorphology and fisheries. just during specific conditions. nitrogen. The sampling equipment and Additional field trips were held in 2007 methods used by the schools are not the in Bradford and Corinth to discuss same as those used by the state, so stream geomorphology and the physical condition of the Waits River.

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 4 – The Waits River Watershed 50 watershed and make this available to Potential funding sources: LaRosa, CRJC PG, GOAL: DEVELOP A GOOD the public. Work with new programs WEF, UCM&E, Watershed grant UNDERSTANDING OF THE WATER and groups to expand testing . Time-frame: 2010 QUALITY IN THE WAITS RIVER Potential key players: Waits River Valley Objective: Increase the awareness in WATERSHED AND INCREASE THE School, Oxbow High School, River Bend Career the watershed about good land AWARENESS OF WATERSHED and Technical Center, DEC stewardship to reduce water pollution RESIDENTS ABOUT ANY WATER Potential funding sources: CRJC PG, WEF, in the Waits River watershed. UCM&E, Watershed Grant QUALITY CONCERNS AND BASIC ACTIONS THEY CAN TAKE TO Time-frame: ongoing ADDRESS THESE CONCERNS. 72. Conservation commissions will help 70. Identify areas of the Waits River distribute the booklet A Place You Call Home produced by Northern Objective: Increase the scope and watershed which may be at risk for Woodlands in 2006. This publication reliability of water quality specific types of pollution such as E. discusses important land management information collected in the Waits coli, nutrient enrichment, principals for landowners many of River watershed and provide this sedimentation, or metals due to local which are related to water quality. information to the public. land uses to guide future water sampling efforts. Potential key players: Northern Woodlands, conservation commissions Potential key players: Waits River Valley School, Potential funding sources: 68. Work with the Biomonitoring and Oxbow High school, River Bend Career and Time-frame: 2007-2008 Aquatic Studies Section to locate Technical Center, DEC, conservation biological monitoring sites in the commissions Waits River watershed that will Potential funding sources: CRJC PG, WEF, 73. Provide opportunities for adults to address community concerns. One UCM&E, Watershed Grant learn about the Waits River. Time-frame: 2008 Continue field trips to sites along the site of concern is the Waits River near the Waits River Valley School Waits River, tributaries and other 71. Begin a volunteer water quality sites in the watershed to increase because this site has ongoing testing testing program in the Waits River by the local school which has local knowledge of this great watershed to identify some of the resource and current threats. suggested lower water quality. water quality issues in the watershed Potential key players: BASS, interested Potential key players: Bradford and Corinth community members, River Bend Career and including E. coli at the Waits River conservation commissions, DEC Technical Center Valley School and at other swimming Potential funding sources: WEF, CRJC PG Potential funding sources: State funds locations in the watershed. Publicize Time-frame: Ongoing Time-frame: 2007-2008 results to increase awareness in the community. 69. Continue and expand school and Potential key players: Waits River Valley School, community based water quality Oxbow High School, River Bend Career and testing in the watershed. Integrate Technical Center, DEC, Bradford and Corinth local testing information in the conservation commissions

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 4 – The Waits River Watershed 51 Section 4-3 Nonpoint inventory and budget plan funded were supported by the watershed through a Better Backroads grant. council. Appendix A5 has a complete Source Pollution in the description of agriculture in the Waits Waits River Watershed Agriculture River watershed.

Nonpoint source pollution was the top Agriculture gives the Waits River GOAL: REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF rated concern in the Waits River watershed much of its character along with supporting the economic base of SEDIMENT AND NONPOINT SOURCE watershed including runoff from roads, POLLUTION ENTERING THE WAITS developed lands, agricultural lands, and the watershed. In addition, as agricultural land is converted to RIVER. associated with logging operations. These topics and related strategies for all suburban development, there is generally a net increase in nutrient Objective: Reduce road-related of Basin 14 are discussed in detail in erosion and the impacts of Sections 1-3 and 1-5 of this plan on production, so keeping well managed agricultural land in active production undersized culverts on streams, fish pages four and 10 respectively. and wildlife in the watershed. Included in this section is a description can sustain better water quality. Farm (See page 12 for basin-wide strategies) of roads and agriculture in the Waits land makes up over 8% of the Waits

River watershed. River watershed and much of this land is located along streams and rivers. As 74. Present the results of the bridge and culvert survey of the Waits River Road Assessments and Projects farming involves the spreading of fertilizers and manures, good watershed to selectboards and road A bridge and culvert survey was commissioners in the watershed. completed for the Waits River management practices on farms are important to reducing NPS pollution in Potential key players: TRORC, conservation watershed in 2007. This was done commissions, DFW through a survey of 218 structures the watershed. Potential funding sources: 319, 604b, UCM&E, completed by the DFW and 16 RCG structures surveyed Redstart Consulting One challenge with increasing the Time-frame: 2009 as part of the geomorphic assessment of participation of farmers in the Waits 75. Work with towns in the watershed to the Waits River. Results from these River watershed in BMP programs that incorporate bridge and culvert survey assessments will be compiled and require taking land out of production, is data into plans for bridge and culvert presented to local towns in 2008. that the Waits River valley is narrow and many of the farms along the river replacement. Develop a plan to The Towns of Topsham and Washington have a limited land base. Because of replace at a minimum those structures have completed Better Backroads grants this, programs that might increase in each town which are at high risk in the Waits River watershed to reduce participation in this watershed such as for failure, or are barriers to runoff from town roads. In 2004, the the Vermont Agricultural Buffer significant fish or wildlife habitat. town of Topsham completed a road Program that allows for the harvesting Potential key players: Bradford and Corinth of the buffers along row crops and the conservation commissions, town selectboards, ANR, TRORC development of new flexible approaches

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 4 – The Waits River Watershed 52 Potential funding sources: Better Backroads grants, UCM&E, VTrans, Municipal Stormwater 78. Participate in the Source to Sea Clean Section 4-4 River Corridor Mitigation Grant Time-frame: 2009 – 2011 up to clean up any sections of the Management in the Waits Waits River and its tributaries with River Watershed trash. Publicize this event to increase awareness of this problem. As described in Section 1-4 on page Objective: Reduce NPS pollution Potential key players: CRWC, Bradford and seven of this water quality management from agricultural lands while Corinth conservation commissions plan river corridor management is one of maintaining an active agricultural Potential funding sources: the top issues in Basin 14. This is also community in the Waits River Time-frame: ongoing true in the Waits River watershed since watershed. 79. Support the passage of a tire deposit of the Waits River appears to be (See page 6 for basin-wide strategies) currently going thorough the evolution or other legislation that reduces the incentive to dispose of tires in process shown in Figure 1-3 on page 8. 76. Develop and encourage participation The Waits River below West Topsham in agricultural best management streams and rivers. Work with other New England states to pass similar is wide and shallow, and there is programs that work for farmers in the excessive streambank erosion in some Waits River watershed where valleys legislation so loss of sales from local tire dealers is limited. areas. This is likely related to river are narrow and farms have limited corridor and watershed management land to give up for buffers. Potential key players: Bradford and Corinth conservation commissions over the past 200 years as well as large Potential key players: WRNRCD, NRCS, AAFM Potential funding sources: NA Potential funding sources: CREP, Vermont flood events in the 1973 and again in Time-frame: ongoing Agricultural Buffer Program 1990 and channelizing, bulldozing and Time-frame: ongoing dredging after these events. These are visual observations but a more complete 77. Reevaluate the existing agricultural picture of the processes going on in the impairment in the Waits River Waits River will be developed through a watershed and address the stream geomorphic assessment study impairment if this water is still not that began in 2007. This assessment is meeting water quality standards. lead by the Bradford and Corinth Potential key players: WRNRCD, NRCS, AAFM conservation commissions and the Waits Potential funding sources: EQIP, 319, BMP Time-frame: 2009 River Watershed Council and funded through a River Corridor Grant. Objective : Remove tires and garbage from streams in the watershed, and In the summer of 2007, workshops were increase awareness of impacts from held in Corinth and Bradford on fluvial this garbage geomorphology and the basic concepts

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 4 – The Waits River Watershed 53 of the Phase 1 and 2 fluvial geomorphic assessments. These workshops were well attended by riverfront landowners and watershed residents.

GOAL: RETURN THE WAITS RIVER AND ITS TRIBUTARIES TO AN EQUILIBRIUM CONDITION.

Objective: Develop an understanding of the fluvial geomorphic processes acting in the Waits River and its tributaries and provide this information to the public.

80. Complete Phase 1 geomorphic assessments of the Waits River and its tributaries keeping communities informed about the results. Potential key players: TRORC, Bradford and Corinth conservation commissions, RMP Potential funding sources: WEF, RCG, UCM&E Time-frame: 2007

81. Complete a Phase 2 geomorphic Figure 4-3. The Waits River below the confluence with the South Branch showing typical assessment of the Waits River and its wide and shallow pattern which it maintains for much of its length below West Topsham tributaries that are identified as 82. Present the results of the Phase 1 and Objective: Increase the involvement needing additional assessment during 2 geomorphic assessments to of watershed towns in managing the the Phase 1 geomorphic assessment members of the Waits River Waits River based on fluvial or by community members. watershed. geomorphic principles. Potential key players: TRORC, Bradford and Potential key players: Bradford and Corinth Corinth conservation commissions, RMP conservation commissions, RMP, Redstart Potential funding sources: RCG, UCM&E Consulting 83. Complete a River Corridor Plan for Time-frame: 2009 Potential funding sources: RCG, UCM&E the Waits River to identify riparian Time-frame: 2009 conservation priorities, river corridor protection strategies and restoration

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 4 – The Waits River Watershed 54 projects to move the Waits River restore the equilibrium condition of towards an equilibrium condition. the Waits River as suggested by Section 4-5 Wetlands, Dams, Potential key players: TRORC, RMP, Bradford Phase 2 geomorphic assessments. Ponds and Invasive Species in and Corinth conservation commissions Potential key players: RMP, Bradford and the Waits River Watershed. Potential funding sources: RCG, UCM&E Corinth conservation commissions, DFW Time-frame: 2009 - 2010 Potential funding sources: UCM&E, RCG, CRJC The Waits River does not have a large PG number of lakes and ponds in its 84. Develop fluvial erosion hazard Time-frame: 2009 watershed but there are large areas of overlay districts for towns in the wetlands and issues that pertain to dams Waits River watershed. and small ponds in the watershed. Potential key players: TRORC, RMP, Bradford Background information on these topics Corinth and Topsham conservation and planning commissions and selectboards, DFW and strategies for all of Basin 14 are Potential funding sources: UCM&E, RCG included in Section 1-6 of this plan on Time-frame: 2012 page 12.

Objective: Improve the aquatic GOAL: PROTECT AND RESTORE habitat, stabilize streambanks, and WETLAND, AQUATIC AND RIPARIAN reduce water temperatures in the HABITATS IN THE WAITS RIVER Waits River and its tributaries. WATERSHED.

85. Locate local tree stock appropriate Objective: Reduce the spread of for riparian buffer plantings and exotic invasive aquatic and riparian engage local volunteers to complete species in the Waits River watershed riparian buffer plantings along the Waits River and its tributaries. 87. Host a workshop on invasive species Potential key players: NRCS, Bradford and in the watershed to educate the Corinth conservation commissions community about inadvertently Potential funding sources: CREP funds, planting or spreading these species. UCM&E, C&C Potential key players: Bradford and Corinth Time-frame: Ongoing conservation commissions, WRNRCD Potential funding sources: CRJC PG , WEF, 86. Complete restoration projects Watershed Grant identified in the river corridor plan Time-frame: 2010 and compatible with information collected in the geomorphic 88. Complete a demonstration project assessments. Restoration projects along the Waits River on control should improve fish habitat as well as methods for Japanese knotweed,

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 4 – The Waits River Watershed 55 including the proper disposal of Section 4-6 Impaired and Waters List” dating back to 1998 for Knotweed, to prevent its spread. failure to meet ALS (Aquatic Life Encourage landowners to mow or cut Altered Waters in the Waits Support) water quality criteria due to areas of knotweed on private River Watershed metals drainage from Pike Hill Mine. property. Potential key players: private landowners, The Agency of Natural Resources is Acid Mine Drainage conservation commissions responsible for maintaining water There is a long history of copper mining Potential funding sources: CRJC PG , UCM&E quality in each waterbody in accordance Time-frame: 2011 in the Waits River watershed at the Pike with the Vermont Water Quality Hill Mines in Corinth, Vermont. Pike Standards. Water quality is determined 89. Post signs about invasive species at Hill is part of the Vermont copper belt using biological, physical, and chemical which also includes the Ely Mine in all boat launches along the criteria for each water quality Connecticut River and the Waits Vershire and the Elizabeth Mine in management class. The Department of Strafford. During the process of copper River stating what aquatic invasive Environmental Conservation monitors species are present at the location and mining, piles of waste rock and tailings surface waters for conformance with were created along with extensive what should be done to prevent their numeric and narrative water quality spread to or from the waterbody. underground workings. As water makes criteria to document violations and contact with the waste rock, sulfuric Potential key players: DEC, DFW determine use attainment. Waters that Potential funding sources: acid is produced which leaches metals Time-frame: 2009 are determined to be below the into local surface and ground water. biological, physical or chemical water This process, called acid mine drainage, quality criteria of the Vermont Water has resulted in the impairment of Pike Quality Standards are listed as impaired. Hill Brook. In addition, this process has To be listed as “impaired”, and included resulted in elevated levels of metals in the EPA- Approved List of Impaired detected in the unnamed tributary to Surface Waters the violation of the Cookeville Brook (Kiah 2007), but this Vermont Water Quality Standards must has not resulted in an ALS impairment be substantiated by data collected of this stream. As a result of the ALS through chemical, physical and/or impairment of Pike Hill Brook, the DEC biological monitoring and the cause or requested Pike Hill be added to the stressor most likely responsible for the national priorities list under the impairment identified. This process is Comprehensive Environmental outlined in the DEC publication 2006 Response, Compensation, and Liability Vermont Surface Water Assessment Act (generally referred to as Superfund) Methodology Including Vermont Listing and the site was listed in 2004. The Methodology (DEC 2005). The DEC EPA is now the lead agency heading up placed Pike Hill Brook on the “Impaired

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 4 – The Waits River Watershed 56 Table 4-1. Impaired waters in the Waits River Watershed (DEC 2007a) WATER SEGMENT POLLUTANT USE(S) REASON FOR SURFACE CURRENT AND FUTURE PROPOSED ACTION NAME/DESCRIPTION IMPAIRED WATER QUALITY PROBLEMS PIKE HILL BROOK, FROM METALS AQUATIC LIFE HIGH METALS IN MOUTH TO THREE MILES SUPPORT DRAINAGE FROM EVALUATION OF THE MINE AND STREAM BY THE USGS IS CURRENTLY IN UPSTREAM (Newbury) ABANDONED PIKE HILL PROGRESS. (STRATEGY 88) MINE & TAILINGS TRIBUTARY TO TABOR AQUATIC LIFE AGRICULTURAL & A MACROINVERTEBRATE SAMPLE WAS TAKEN IN THE FALL OF 2007 AND BRANCH, MOUTH UNDEFINED SUPPORT BARNYARD RUNOFF; FOLLOW UP WILL BE MADE BASED ON RESULTS. THERE ARE OTHER LAND UPSTREAM APPROX 0.1 MILKHOUSE EFFLUENT USES IN THIS AREA THAT MAY BE EXACERBATING THE PROBLEM. MILE (Topsham) the evaluation of the Pike Hill site with sampling did not show an impairment of the assistance of the Agency of Natural aquatic life in this stream (DEC 2005). Resources and the United States Levels of metals and pH improve Geological Survey (USGS). As of 2007, downstream along Pike Hill Brook, but two studies of the site have already been do not meet water quality standards completed by the USGS and are before entering the Waits River. Mean available on line at: daily loading of iron, copper, aluminum, http://infotrek.er.usgs.gov/pubs/ cadmium, and zinc at the uppermost sampling site was 52.5, 10.5, 9.8, Three abandoned mines, Eureka, Smith .035, and 3.8 kilograms respectively and Union make up the Pike Hill Mines (Kiah et al. 2007). Macroinvertebrate (see Figure 4-4). Runoff from the and fish communities in the Waits Eureka and Union mines drains into River below the confluence with Pike Pike Hill Brook, while runoff from the Hill Brook do not show any sign of smaller Smith Mine drains into an impairment from the mine waste unnamed tributary to Cookeville Brook. (DEC 2005). The drainage from the mines on Pike Hill includes waters with a low pH, and Figure 4-4. The Further studies of the site are needed to elevated levels of metals, which causes locations of the develop a final clean up proposal for the mines on Pike Hill. an impairment of the biotic community (Taken from site. There are many possibilities for including both fish and Piatak, 2006) how this remediation will take place. macroinvertebrates in Pike Hill Brook Restoration plans will likely include (DEC 2005). In addition, a small some diversion of clean water away tributary to Cookeville Brook has from the tailings, stabilizing and/or elevated levels of copper and other moving of tailings piles to reduce metals as a result of runoff from the erosion and contact with surface and Smith Mine (Kiah et al. 2007), but ground water. In addition, some initial macroinvertebrate and fish covering of the tailings or treatment of

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 4 – The Waits River Watershed 57 Table 4-2. Local waters of concern (including waters in need of further assessment) in the Waits River watershed (DEC 2007b)

Waterbody Reason for Concern Status Current or Future proposed Actions SEDIMENT, TEMPERATURE WAITS RIVER, BELOW SOUTH CAUSED BY HABITAT GEOMORPHIC PHASE 1 AND PHASE 2 GEOMORPHIC ASSESSMENT INITIATED AND WILL BRANCH ALTERATION, CHANNEL ASSESSMENT IN LEAD TO A RIVER CORRIDOR PLANNING EFFORT AND FEH MAPPING AND CONFLUENCE WIDENING, EROSION, PROGRESS RESTORATION EFFORTS. (SECTION 4-4 STRATEGIES 80-84) LAND RUNOFF CONCERN RELATED TO MORE COMPREHENSIVE WAITS RIVER BELOW THE WAITS ELEVATED E. COLI LEVELS SAMPLING NEEDED TO E. COLI SAMPLING AT THIS LOCATION (STRATEGIES 68 & 69) RIVER VALLEY SCHOOL IDENTIFIED THROUGH CONFIRM SCHOOL SAMPLING ARTIFICIAL FLOW WAITS RIVER (BELOW CONDITION, POOR FLOW FERC EXEMPTION ADDRESS WITH EXEMPTEE OR THROUGH FERC PROCESS BRADFORD DAM) REGIME IN DAM’S BYPASS SEGMENT water may be required. The EPA will be Sampling done by the Waits River 90. Develop and implement a plan with soliciting community input as plans to Valley School has identified E. coli in the USGS, EPA, State of Vermont address this site are developed. the Waits River near the school. More and local community to remediate the robust sampling at this site through an Pike Hill Mine and restore Pike Hill approved lab would allow for a Brook to meet Vermont Water Local Waters of Concern determination if E. coli levels at this Quality Standards as part of the There are other waters that fall outside location are above Vermont Water Superfund process. the scope of impaired waters but have Quality Standards. Potential key players: EPA, DEC, USGS, Corinth not met water quality standards or are of Conservation Commission and selectboard, local residents and landowners. concern for other reasons. The Waits The Waits River in the bypass of the Potential funding sources: Superfund, private River from West Topsham to the Bradford Dam is known to be altered companies or responsible parties Connecticut River is stressed and listed due to low flow conditions. The dam Time-frame: 2012 as in need of continued monitoring, and has a FERC exemption. further assessment because of river Objective: Address sediment and sediment, temperature, habitat alteration, GOAL: RESTORE IMPAIRED WATERS temperature issues caused by habitat channel widening, erosion, and land AND BETTER MANAGE WATERS OF alteration on the Waits River the runoff. A geomorphic assessment of the CONCERN BEFORE THEY BECOME South Branch. Waits River is planned for 2007- 2008 IMPAIRED FOR ALL WATERS IN THE WAITS RIVER WATERSHED. and should clarify the type and extent of 91. Complete strategies in Section 4-4 of instability and identify possible this plan to restore the physical solutions to address these concerns (see Objective: Restore Pike Hill Brook condition of the Waits River.

Section 4-4 for a detailed description of this issue). Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 4 – The Waits River Watershed 58 River flows for another Chapter 5 – The 6 miles before it enters the Ompompanoosuc River Connecticut River in Watershed a large marsh area near Pompanoosuc Section 5-1 Watershed Village in the town of Norwich. Description The river drains a The headwaters of the watershed of 136 Ompompanoosuc River begin above square miles or the town of Vershire in Vershire 87,040 acres Heights and flow southeasterly for (DEC 1999). about six miles and then southerly for another 12 miles to its confluence with The largest lakes in the West Branch of the this watershed include Ompompanoosuc River just above the Lake Fairlee (457 Union Village Dam. The portion of the acres), Miller Pond (64 mainstem of the Ompompanoosuc River acres), Lake Abenaki (44 above its confluence with the West acres), and Mud Pond (20 Branch is also locally referred to as the acres). The latter is also East Branch of the Ompompanoosuc locally called Forsyth Pond. River. The Ompompanoosuc River The West Branch of the watershed is dominated by Ompompanoosuc River has a length of forest land which covers 86% of 16.5 miles and a watershed of about 60 the watershed. Agricultural land square miles or 38,400 acres. It uses occupy 5.2% or 4,507 acres. originates near Hawkins Mountain in the Surface water covers 3.2% or southwestern portion of Vershire. It 2,801 acres and wetlands flows south until South Strafford then cover 1.2% or 1,016 acres of flows generally easterly until its the watershed (DEC 1999). confluence with the Ompompanoosuc The watershed has “barren River just above Union Village Dam. land” referring to the After passing through the Union abandoned Elizabeth and Ely Figure 5-1. The Ompompanoosuc River watershed Village Dam the Ompompanoosuc copper mines covering about

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 59 0.3% of the watershed or 226 acres. development of the Ompompanoosuc Dam (United States Army Corps of Conserved lands in town or state forests, River watershed, providing power for a Engineers/ANR 2002). or Wildlife Management Areas cover number of historic mills in the watershed. 2.5 % of the land in the The largest dam in the watershed is the Many of the other dams in the watershed Ompompanoosuc River watershed. Union Village Dam flood control structure are located at the outlet of lakes and ponds, which provides flood control for the lower while others are historical mill dams no Developed land, primarily related to Ompompanoosuc River and Connecticut longer in use. Many dams such as the dam roads, covers 4.1% or 3,596 acres of the River valleys and is operated by the at the outlet from Lake Fairlee, are watershed. The villages of Strafford, United States Army Corps of Engineers privately owned, therefore shoreline South Strafford, Thetford, West Fairlee (USACE). In summer, water flows freely owners are dependent on the dam owner and Vershire are all in the watershed, through the Union Village Dam except with regards to water level management. but these villages are all relatively small. when the dam is storing or releasing water Water level regulation can be established For the most part the, watershed is rural. during flood control events. Over the by rule through a petition to the Water Union Village Dam’s operating history, Resources Panel. There are a number of important flood control events have occurred on historical sites along the average about once a year. During winter Water-Based Resources Ompompanoosuc River and its time, a pool is maintained behind the The tributaries and associated lakes, ponds tributaries. As stated in the 1996 Union Village Dam, but the dam is and wetlands in the watershed support findings of fact for the Outstanding managed as run-of-the-river during this aquatic life and habitat and provide Resource Waters designation for the 3.8 time meaning that water flows into and out recreational opportunities through mile section of the Ompompanoosuc of the dam at the same rate. However, an fisheries, swimming beaches, boating runs, River, the floodplains of the exception to this is when the Union and aesthetics. In addition, the surface Ompompanoosuc River likely contain Village Dam reduces downstream flows waters in the watershed provide irrigation historic and prehistoric archeological for a time in the fall to fill up the winter and limited drinking water supplies. The sites. In addition, there are a number of pool, and increases downstream flows for fundamental purpose of protecting water remnants from Vermont’s industrial a time in the spring as it releases water to quality in Vermont is to protect these and history along the river including mill drain the winter pool, and during similar any other beneficial uses and values of the sites, a wheel pit, the remains of several changes in flows during flood control water. Waters in the Ompompanoosuc blacksmith shops, and the historically events. Improving operations at the River watershed along with all surface significant Sayre Covered Bridge USACE dams in Vermont, including the waters in Vermont are protected in order to (Vermont Water Resources Board Union Village Dam, is the goal of an support uses valued by the public 1996). agreement between the Agency, USACE, including swimming, boating, and fishing. and US F&W. One stated priority for the Some uses are protected absolutely if the Dams in the Watershed ANR in this document is winter flow Agency of Natural Resources identifies As in most of New England, dams regulation improvement at Union Village them as existing uses under the anti- played an important role in the degradation policy of the Vermont Water

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 60 Quality Standards(VWQS § 1-03). and this lower section of the river is Table 5-1. Fish species present in Ompompanoosuc Existing uses in Basin 14 are listed in frequently used for boating. River watershed lakes and ponds.

Chapter Six in tables 6-1 through 6-3 on Fish species present in waterbody page 83. Fish Habitat and Fisheries Common Name Miller Lake CCC Lake Fisheries investigations conducted since Pond Fairlee Pond Abenaki Swimming 1 1980 have shown that the high elevation Brook trout X Many of the lakes and ponds in the 1 reaches of the Ompompanoosuc River and Brown trout X watershed are used for swimming and 1 1 West Branch support moderate to high Rainbow trout X X boating including Lake Fairlee, Miller densities of wild brook trout. Moving Rainbow smelt X Pond, and Lake Abenaki. In addition, downstream within the branches, the Largemouth bass X X X X there are a number of sites on streams in Smallmouth bass X numbers of wild trout decrease. Limited the watershed where swimming is Yellow perch X X X wild brown trout in the lower common. Rock bass X Ompompanoosuc River and poor or absent Bluegill X X X populations of wild trout in parts of the Boating Pumpkinseed X X X West Branch, particularly below Copperas 2 2 2 Boating and tubing were identified as Redbreast X X X Brook, are likely attributed to well- sunfish important uses during public forums in Brown bullhead X X X documented copper pollution associated the Ompompanoosuc River watershed. Chain pickerel X with several area mines. Wild rainbow Boating is common on the largest lake Blacknose dace X trout are likely present in low densities. in the watershed, Lake Fairlee, and to a Bluntnose X The lowest reaches of the main stem of the minnow lesser degree on a number of the smaller Ompompanoosuc River are backwatered Golden shiner X X X X lakes in the watershed. At watershed Fallfish X by the Connecticut River at Wilder Dam. forums, specific mention was made of Longnose sucker X This area supports a number of fish the importance of boating on the West White sucker X X species including bass, pike, and perch Branch of the Ompompanoosuc River 1Currently stocked present in the upper Connecticut River. and the West Branch has been rated as 2Needs verification highly important for boating by Jerry Current fisheries management focuses on Jenkins and Peter Zika (1992) in The catchable-sized rainbow and brook trout to protecting existing habitat through public Whitewater Rivers of Vermont: The Biology, provide additional recreational fishing outreach and participation in the Geography and Recreational Use. In opportunities. Stocked areas include the regulatory process, assessing aquatic addition, tubing on the West Branch in middle and lower reaches of the organism passage through stream crossing South Strafford was listed as an Ompompanoosuc River and West Branch. structures, protecting wild brook trout important activity by local residents. No trout are stocked in the mainstem populations in the upper river, and There is also a DFW boat launch on the below Union Village Dam. supplementing the lower river with Ompompanoosuc River near the confluence with the Connecticut River,

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 61 DFW manages fisheries on several Connecticut River Basin. Atlantic salmon increasingly important as the regions public lakes and ponds in the fry are stocked annually and evaluated in population grows. This was not initially Ompompanoosuc River watershed. the lower reaches of the Ompompanoosuc identified as one of the top issues in the These include Lake Fairlee, Miller Pond River above and below the Union Village watershed but emerged as a concern at the and the CCC Pond. Miller Pond has Dam (Humling 2007). While strategies to end of the planning process so should be both a small warmwater fishery and improve fisheries are not broken out in a addressed in future plans. rainbow and brook trout which are separate section of this plan, a number of stocked annually. CCC Pond is the site strategies to improve riparian habitat and Riparian Flora and Fauna of a youth summer camp and has a small remove barriers to fish passage will There are a number of plant and animal fishery with largemouth bass, yellow benefit fisheries in this watershed species that make their home in and along perch and other species listed in Table (Humling 2007). the Ompompanoosuc River and its 5-1. Lake Fairlee supports regionally tributaries. A number of these are important fisheries for both warmwater Irrigation and Animal Watering dependent on specific habitat types that the and coldwater fish species. It is stocked According to AAFM approximately 24% river and riparian lands provide. One rare annually with catchable size rainbow of known surface water withdrawals in species known to use the Ompompanoosuc and brown trout and supports popular Orange County are for irrigation while an River is the wood turtle, which has been fisheries for largemouth bass, almost insignificant amount of ground reported from Interstate I-91 in Norwich to smallmouth bass, and a variety of water is used for this purpose. Between the Thetford -West Fairlee town line. panfish. Ice fishing for yellow perch, 1987 and 2002, the number of farms using Wood turtles glyptemys insculpta rainbow smelt, bass, and trout takes irrigation in Orange County has more than overwinter in the river, but need nearby place each winter on Lake Fairlee as quadrupled while the total acreage of upland, swampy, and sandy habitat well. Fish species present in irrigated land in the county has increased throughout the year. Another location of Ompompanoosuc River watershed lakes by nearly 70%. particular note for fauna is an Important and ponds with public access are Birding Area at the confluence of the presented in Table 5-1. Drinking Water Supplies Ompompanoosuc River and the Drinking water in the Ompompanoosuc Connecticut River. This site is heavily The Ompompanoosuc River watershed River watershed is primarily from private used by migrating shorebirds. is identified as providing important wells, and no surface waters are habitat in the Strategic Plan for the designated as public water supplies and Restoration of Atlantic Salmon to the only one ground water source protection Connecticut River Basin (1998). The area is designated for the West Fairlee Ompompanoosuc watershed contains Trailer Park. However, Lake Fairlee and approximately 1.5% of the available other surface waters may be used by an salmon nursery habitat within Vermont unknown number of private residencies and approximately 0.7% of the available and seasonal camps. Protection of salmon rearing habitat within the entire groundwater resources may become

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 62 of their regular beach sampling program Water Quality in the Ompompanoosuc at the Union Village Dam. More River Watershed extensive sampling has been done by the The Ompompanoosuc River has more Army Corps of Engineers and the DEC water quality information available than in the last 10 years but the source most watersheds in Vermont. Water of the coliforms has not been quality information comes from a identified. number of sources. The DEC has a In the summer of 2006 number of biological monitoring sites and 2007, volunteer across the watershed, and samples lakes monitors including the on a regular basis. The Army Corps of Ompompanoosuc River Engineers and the United States Watershed Council Geological Society (USGS) have done (ORWC) and local extensive sampling in the watershed to conservation determine the impacts of the two commissions completed historical copper mines that are now an in depth study of E. superfund sites. Finally volunteer coli levels on the river. monitors have been sampling E. coli and This identified West metals in the watershed and lay monitors Fairlee as one area of have been sampling Lake Fairlee for specific concern. Some of water clarity, phosphorus and the results of this study can chlorophyll levels since 1979. Figure 5- be seen in Figure 5-3 (ORWC 2 shows the results of biological 2007). In addition to studies of monitoring highlighting the impacts the water quality in the from the Elizabeth and Ely copper mines Ompompanoosuc River on Copperas Brook and the West Branch watershed, a study of the in Strafford and Thetford, and School physical health of the West House Brook and the Ompompanoosuc Branch of the River in Vershire and West Fairlee. The Ompompanoosuc River impacts to water quality from the mines was completed in 2006. include elevated metals levels and low The physical pH due to acid mine drainage. This is discussed in more detail in Section 5-6. E. coli levels in excess of Vermont water quality standards were identified Figure 5-2. Biological monitoring sites on the Ompompanoosuc River by the Army Corps of Engineers as part showing the impacts from the Elizabeth and Ely Mines Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 63 condition of the river is closely related depths, excessive velocities in B. to water quality as streambank erosion is the culvert, or excessive jump a major source of sediment and nutrients heights at the outlet each create to the river. The physical condition of migration barriers year-round or just the river also has important implications during specific flow conditions. This for the quality of the aquatic habitat is discussed further in Section 5-4. for aquatic species. This is discussed further in Section 5-3 of the basin plan. Improper design or installation of culverts may also impact the physical condition of the river and present migration barriers to fish and other aquatic organisms. Artificially shallow

A. Geometric mean of E. coli levels on the Ompompanoosuc River and tributaries during the summer of 2006 and 2007

400 Geometric mean 2006 Geometric mean 2007 350 Tributary geometric mean 2006 Tributary geometric mean 2007 300 Vermont E. coli Standard 250

200

150

E. coli (mpn/100ml) E. coli 100

50

0 ) ) ) ) ) ) k) k l ) ll ) ) ) ) ) Figure 5-3. A. The geometric mean of E. coli levels on the e 4 i b b ss ok o B 4 ri Rd ri Rd Rd e ro r ye Trib) 2 Trib) ndf T n Trib) T Trib) r Hill) Dam) c Bro e t e a k a d i c Ompompanoosuc River and Tributaries in the summer of 2006 Pa e o nd Trib) n Hill k e r - ook R l e wn r y Beach)ke g A er B eav e r V l ro o B o o d c a Flats c ve v B Night Owe G ( P n ke ll l li a a d rl B U B e c vi b and 2007. The line represents the geometric mean of yearly E. e w n i e r e ud u t Tu bel Be o i a e Fair e n a n p Pu f (B F k w (Unk T e Abana io o B D (West Fairlee) a (M k ch coli levels on the Ompompanoosuc River while triangles and st below s N a P1 (Sann life h h bel e i (Bark M O ( L Un d rt c H (La m w ra (Cam il o n W J K (Hughes P lo P ( B w n C1 (Beh hoolhous (1 e lo R W x’s show levels on the tributaries in 2006 and 2007 respectively. ra ve c I e o F (West Fairlee Lake Rd) b mi t B b (S m nd .3 s E L (Above0 Sawnee Bean Rd) a B. The locations of sample sites marked by stars. Full reports ( a (A 0 Q (B 2 sh A (E (2 Fi C C 1 W1 (West ( of 2006 and 2007 results can be viewed on the web at: L S Site http://www.thetfordvermont.us/conscomm.htm

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 64 years. Because of this trend the focus of Potential key players: Thetford, West Fairlee and Section 5-2 Nonpoint outreach in this watershed will be on best Norwich conservation commissions, DEC, USACE, Local Media outlets Source Pollution in the management practices for smaller farms. Potential funding sources: NA Ompompanoosuc River Appendix A6 has a complete description Time-frame: ongoing of agriculture in the Ompompanoosuc Watershed River watershed. 94. Identify and correct failing septic Nonpoint source pollution was the top systems and provide public education rated concern in the Ompompanoosuc on proper septic system maintenance. River watershed including runoff from GOAL: REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF Potential key players: conservation commissions, developed lands, agricultural lands, and SEDIMENT AND NONPOINT SOURCE DEC Potential funding sources: C&C, Vermont Home associated with logging operations. POLLUTION ENTERING THE OMPOMPANOOSUC RIVER. Loan Fund These topics including pollution from (see page 6 for basin-wide strategies) Time-frame: 2010 developed and forested lands are discussed in detail along with strategies Objective: Reduce E. coli levels in the Objective: Reduce nonpoint source common for all of Basin 14 in Section 1- pollution from agricultural and 3 of this plan on page 4. Included in this Ompompanoosuc River to meet Vermont Water Quality Standards. developed lands in the watershed. section is a description of agriculture in the Ompompanoosuc River watershed. 95. Establish buffers along the 92. Continue the volunteer E. coli sampling Ompompanoosuc River with the Agriculture program for Ompompanoosuc River following priorities: As with the rest of Basin 14 agriculture until E. coli sources in the watershed a. West Branch of the Ompompanoosuc gives the Ompompanoosuc River have been identified and bracketed. River between Strafford and South. watershed much of its character. In Add sites or new techniques to better Strafford. addition, as agricultural land is bracket potential E. coli sources as b. East Branch of the Ompompanoosuc converted to suburban development, needed. River between Brimstone Corner and Potential key players: Thetford, West Fairlee and there is generally a net increase in Norwich conservation commissions, USACE Crossroad. nutrient production, so keeping well Potential funding sources: LaRosa, CRJC PG , c. Along Blood and Middle Brooks flowing managed agricultural land in active USACE, Watershed Grant into Lake Fairlee. production can support better water Time-frame: ongoing Potential key players: NRCS, AAFM, conservation quality. The trend of increasing number commissions, Lake Fairlee Association of small farms in Orange County is 93. Provide the results of E. coli testing to Potential funding sources: CREP, WHIP, C&C the public along with information on Time-frame: 2012 particularly evident in the Ompompanoosuc River watershed actions (such as cleaning up pet waste 96. Distribute brochures on AAPs, pasture which has seen increasing numbers of along the river and maintaining septic management, barnyard areas and other horse owners and small farms in recent systems) that landowners can take to topics relating to water quality to horse help reduce E. coli levels.

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 65 and small farm owners through tack the remainder of the Ompompanoosuc shops and veterinarians. Section 5-3 River Corridor River watershed. Potential key players: WRNRCD, NRCS, Management in the AAFM, tack shops, veterinarians River Corridor Planning Potential funding sources: CRJC PG, WEF Ompompanoosuc River Time-frame: 2009 Watershed The goals set out by the Strafford Conservation Commission for the West 97. Recommend the adoption of low River corridor issues are another top Branch of the Ompompanoosuc River are impact development standards by concern in the Ompompanoosuc River to increase its value as a recreational local towns to address the issue of watershed as in other parts of Basin 14. resource, improve public access to the stormwater runoff. Section 1-4 of this basin plan on page 7 river and streams, improve aquatic habitat, Potential key players:, conservation describes this issue as it relates to all of reduce flood and erosion hazards and commissions, planning commissions Basin 14 but included here is a discussion restore river corridor functions (Blazewicz Potential funding sources: NA of river corridor managment for the Time-frame: 2012 and Nealon 2006a). Bear Creek Ompompanoosuc River Watershed. Environmental was hired to complete Residents in the Town of Strafford have Phase 1 and 2 geomorphic assessments as expressed particular concerns with erosion well as the River Corridor Management between the villages of Strafford and Plan for the West Branch of the South Strafford. To address this issue the Ompompanoosuc River. As stated in the town sought and received funding from River Corridor Management Plan the Upper Connecticut River Mitigation and Enhancement Fund (UCM&E) over a “These assessments showed that the West series of years to conduct Phase 1 and 2 Branch of the Ompompanoosuc is undergoing geomorphic assessments and to develop a active adjustment processes. On the majority River Corridor Management Plan for the of the West Branch, historic incision has West Branch of the Ompompanoosuc lowered the elevation of the river bed leaving River. While this study only covers a the floodplain inaccessible. As a result, high portion of the Ompompanoosuc River flows that would normally access the watershed, a summary of the work is floodplain are contained within the channel; thereby causing extensive bank erosion, presented here because many of the issues channel widening, lateral migration, loss of are likely to be similar in other aquatic habitat, and general channel instability subwatersheds of the Ompompanoosuc (pictured in Figure 5-4). The traditional River. This summary will also provide approach of attempting to control erosion some background to assist other employs bank armoring (rip-rap), which is communities in the watershed that are common on the West Branch, but has lead to currently pursuing assessments covering further instability in the system.

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 66 Also, there are many encroachments upon the river corridor in the form of residential and commercial development, as well as roads. The result is a decreased amount of area that is capable of reestablishing equilibrium through lateral channel migration and the creation of a lower floodplain. It is important to protect the few areas that still have the space for the river to move; otherwise, management of the river will become increasingly difficult and expensive report considers the stage of channel evolution, sensitivity, condition, and major adjustment process for each section, or reach, of the West Branch in order to determine management strategies. The results are management approaches that are appropriate for each section rather than a uniform plan for the entire river. The four major project types identified for the West Branch of the Ompompanoosuc River are: conservation reaches, high recovery reaches, moderately unstable reaches, and highly unstable reaches” (Blazewicz and Nealon Figure 5-4. The West Branch of the Ompompanoosuc River just above the village of 2006a). South Strafford. The river has historically incised and is now forming a new floodplain. (Taken from Blazewicz 2006b) The project types are described and structures where they exist. The Thetford the buffer widths for the entire shown in Figure 5-5. Twenty-One of Conservation Commission, in cooperation Ompompanoosuc River is not available the priority projects from the West with the Ompompanoosuc River but on the West Branch of the Branch River Corridor Management Watershed Council and the conservation Ompompanoosuc River in Strafford, over Plan have been highlighted in Table 5-2. commissions of West Fairlee and half of the stream reaches were found to While a river corridor plan only exists Norwich, has received funding through a have over three quarters of the reach with for the West Branch of the river corridor grant to complete a Phase 1 little or no buffer on one or more banks Ompompanoosuc River, this plan shows geomorphic assessment of the remainder (Nealon and Blazewicz 2004). Riparian that similar types of projects may be of the Ompompanoosuc River watershed. buffers also play other roles in maintaining applicable to the rest of the watershed When this is study is complete, similar a healthy riverine ecosystem. Vegetated such as working on protecting the river projects for this portion of the watershed buffers provide shade to reduce surface corridor and replacing undersized will be developed as well. Information for Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 67 Figure 5-5. Project types for each reach (Blazewicz and Nealon 2006a)

Conservation reaches are generally in stable geomorphic condition and need little restoration work. General strategies for restoration may include the following which are applicable to other reaches as well: 1. Implement FEH zones (see section 3.4) 2. Protect river corridor 3. Replace undersized structures (see section 4.1)

High recovery reachese (black and white dashed) are generally in good to fair geomorphic condition and exhibit expected channel dimensions, profile, and patterns. Restoration of these reaches is best approached with a passive or light active approach to restoration. General strategies for returning these river segments to health may include: 4. Attenuate stormwater if necessary 5. Plant riparian buffers 6. Treat streambank failure through minimally invasive approaches if there is a threat to property or infrastructure. 7. Conduce a Phase 3 assessment (if necessary) 8. Projects types 1 through 3 listed above

Moderately unstable reaches may not have expected channel dimensions, patterns, or profile. Moderately unstable reaches are best approached through conducting alternatives analysis in order to determine the best strategy for restoration. General strategies for implementation may include the following: 9. Conduct a Phase 3 assessment and alternatives analysis 10. Project types 1 through 5 listed above

Restoration of highly unstable reaches is best approached with caution. These reaches are often severely incised, aggrading, or exhibiting major planform or widening processes. Passive restoration techniques are preferred, as active geomorphic restoration of unstable reaches is often very expensive and could be unsuccessful. The very dynamic nature of these streams lends to the challenge of active restoration. The best technique may be to relieve the stream of obvious stressors such as undersized structures or other impairments to sediment transport and then to look for opportunities to develop a new floodplain. General strategies that are appropriate for these river segments are: 11. Plant riparian buffers (Set away from the top of bank) 12. Project types 1 through 4 listed above

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 68 Table 5-2. River Corridor projects listed in the West Branch of the Ompompanoosuc River, River Corridor Management Plan (Taken from Blazewicz and Nealon 2006a)

Project River Specific Strategy Project Description Segment ID Project River Replace Develop New Plant Priority Number (including Potential Constraints Number Type Corridor Undersized Floodplain and Riparian Other Protection Structure(s) Plant Buffer Buffer and/or Opportunities) Maintain and expand existing buffer for 1 M12 MU √ √ L long term stability This reach is redeveloping floodplain; Recommend allowing river to adjust 2 M11-C HU √ naturally. Protection of the river corridor L through this reach would be beneficial to encourage long term stability. Protect and Although a few houses are within the enhance river corridor, this reach has a fairly 3 M11-A CR √ √ √ M existing healthy buffer. An undersized bridge in buffer this reach could be removed. This reach suffers from historic straightening. Landowners may want to consider an alternatives analysis for floodplain redevelopment project. 4 M10 HU √ √ √ H Attenuation of floodwaters and sediment in this reach may reduce pressure on the stream as it passes through the Upper Village. A berm on the left bank downstream of the Brook Road bridge may prevent the stream from accessing its floodplain. Remove 5 M09-B MU √ √ This reach is also likely being impacted H berm by increased sediment transport in reach M10 which is leading to excessive sediment deposition in this reach. Historic photographs show this reach has been greatly straightened. Limited 6 M09-A HU √ existing infrastructure to protect, L therefore consider letting the channel adjust on its own. Replace bridge over Justin Morrill 7 M08 HU √ √ Highway to remove channel and M floodplain constriction.

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 69 Table 5-2. River Corridor projects listed in the West Branch of the Ompompanoosuc River, River Corridor Management Plan (Taken from Blazewicz and Nealon 2006a)

Project River Specific Strategy Project Description Segment ID Project River Replace Develop New Plant Priority Number (including Potential Constraints Number Type Corridor Undersized Floodplain and Riparian Other Protection Structure(s) Plant Buffer Buffer and/or Opportunities) Replace undersized private bridge to allow future access for private landowner. 8 M07 HU √ √ Landowner recognizes river’s movement M and has voluntarily planted floodway to help create roughness during high flows. Landowners may consider determining the feasibility of a project in this area. Remove high spot at bend in river next to 9 M06 HU √ √ soccer field to create floodplain and help H reduce flood hazard through village. Existing recreational use of this small area would need to be discontinued. Relocate town sand storage. Landowners may consider a floodplain redevelopment project at this site. Also consider 10 M05 HU √ √ floodplain project at beginning of H recreation path; existing land use, existing stream conditions, and public connection make this a good project. Consider replacing undersized bridges on this reach in order to improve sediment 11 M04 HU √ √ L transport and reduce potential flood hazard. Preserve The entire reach is well forested, 12 M03 CR √ existing conservation of the corridor will provide M buffer for long-term benefits to the river. This reach would best be maintained as a 13 T7.01 HU √ transport reach to protect existing L infrastructure. This reach would benefit from a CREP Remove project that would exclude livestock from berm at the stream, locate an alternative watering 14 T6.01 HR √ √ √ lower end; source, and plant a riparian buffer. Also H Livestock there are berms at the lower end that exclusion could be removed to improve floodplain access.

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 70 Table 5-2. River Corridor projects listed in the West Branch of the Ompompanoosuc River, River Corridor Management Plan (Taken from Blazewicz and Nealon 2006a)

Project River Specific Strategy Project Description Segment ID Project River Replace Develop New Plant Priority Number (including Potential Constraints Number Type Corridor Undersized Floodplain and Riparian Other Protection Structure(s) Plant Buffer Buffer and/or Opportunities) This reach is highly incised. Existing 15 T5.01 HU √ land use is pasture and field. L Recommend allowing to adjust naturally. This reach would benefit from a CREP Livestock project that would exclude livestock from 16 T4.01-B HU √ H exclusion the stream, locate an alternative watering source, and plant a riparian buffer. This reach is highly incised. Existing 17 T4.01-A HU √ land use is field. Recommend allowing L to adjust naturally. This reach is best maintained as a transport reach in order to protect existing 18 T3.01-B HU √ √ infrastructure through South Strafford L Village. Voluntary buffer planting from local landowners could be encouraged. This reach is highly incised. Existing 19 T3.01-A HR √ land use is field. Recommend allowing L to adjust naturally. The corridor around this reach presents a good opportunity for protection. Land use in the surrounding subwatershed 20 T2.01-B MU √ L should avoid concentrating stormwater towards the very unstable valley walls of this reach. This reach has been historically straightened and will likely be maintained in its current configuration to protect 21 T2.01-A HU √ √ L property in the Village of South Strafford. Voluntary buffer enhancement could be encouraged. River Corridor Project Type: CR = Conservation Reach HR = High Recovery Reach MU = Moderately Unstable Reach HU = Highly Unstable Reach Priority Ranking: H = Higher M = Medium L = Lower

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 71 water temperatures; filter sediments, areas at risk for inundation would condition in the FEH zone to protect nutrients, and other pollutants from runoff; greatly reduce flood damages, reduce property from fluvial erosion hazards and to provide shade and food for aquatic insects; the risk to human lives and property allow the river the space it needs to return to provide cover and substrate for fish and and reduce the future need for channel an equilibrium condition. Figure 5-6 shows aquatic insects; provide habitat to species management. The development of the draft FEH map produced for the town of whose life cycles include water and upland; FEH maps are based the channel width Strafford as part of the West Branch of the offer cover for species traveling between and stream sensitivity which are Ompompanoosuc River Corridor habitats; slow floodwaters; and control ice determined as part of Phase 2 Management Plan. The FEH zone needs to damage. geomorphic assessments. Once be adopted as an overlay zone or produced, an FEH map may be used to incorporated into town zoning in some other Fluvial Erosion Hazard Mitigation develop an overlay district by a town fashion by the town of Strafford for it to The federal government runs a program which can place limits on structures, take effect. called the National Flood Insurance land use activities, or even vegetative Program (NFIP) to reduce flood losses, GOAL: PROTECT AND RESTORE THE allow residents to insure property from EQUILIBRIUM CONDITION OF THE flood damage and provide assistance after OMPOMPANOOSUC RIVER. floods. To participate in this program, towns must regulate development in flood Objective: Protect stable reaches, intact prone areas and enforce minimum NFIP floodplain and forested river corridors. standards. All towns in the Ompompanoosuc River watershed 98. Complete Phase 1 geomorphic participate in this program with the assessments of the Ompompanoosuc exception of the town of Vershire. These River watershed and Phase 2 geomorphic regulations are based on the chance that a assessments for the East Branch and any property will be inundated in any given tributaries rated as fair or poor by the year. The current maps that this program is Phase 1 assessment. based upon do not evaluate the risk from Potential key players: TRORC, RMP, conservation erosion hazards which are areas at high risk commissions Potential funding sources: UCM&E, CRJC PG, for bank failure and erosion during RCG, WEF flooding. In Vermont, erosion hazards Time-frame: 2009 cause more damage than inundation so regulating development in locations at high 99. Protect floodplains identified through the risk for erosion hazards similar to the NFIP Figure 5-6. Draft FEH map of Strafford. geomorphic assessments as important for programs regulation of development in (Taken from Blazewicz and Nealon 2006a) maintaining the stability of the

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 72 Ompompanoosuc River. Work with land from rivers and natural buffers in Potential funding sources: UCM&E, CRJC PG, trusts to include language in accordance with the state Act 250 RCG, WHIP, C&C Time-frame: 2007-2012 conservation easements that protect buffer recommendations in town floodplains and buffers for maintaining plans and zoning, and the adoption or restoring stream stability. of FEH overlay districts. Potential key players: UVLT, RMP, VRC, AAFM, Potential key players: RMP, TRORC, Local NRCS, conservation commissions Conservation and planning commissions. Potential funding sources: UCM&E, VHCB, CREP, VLCT, selectboard members C&C Potential funding sources: Municipal Planning Time-frame: 2012 Grant, RCG Time-frame: 2012 Objective: Increase the participation of the public and town government in 102. The watershed council recommends stream corridor protection. the development of state and federal Most of the protection of riparian habitat is incentives to encourage town done at the local level through town zoning, adoption of FEH overlay districts by and by private land owners who understand municipalities. Potential key players: RMP, TRORC, FEMA the importance of this habitat and manage Potential funding sources: State funds, FEMA, their land to protect and enhance it. RCG Time-frame: 2012 100. Develop river corridor plans covering the Ompompanoosuc River watershed to Objective: Restore unstable reaches reduce human/river conflicts. River of the Ompompanoosuc River and Corridor plans will also prioritize the reaches without sufficient buffers. protection of the river corridor, including floodplains and buffers, and the 103. Implement restoration projects in completion of projects where this will areas identified through river provide the most benefit to the corridor plans including the West Ompompanoosuc River. Branch of the Ompompanoosuc Potential key players: TRORC, RMP, DEC, River, River Corridor Management conservation commissions Potential funding sources: UCM&E, RCG Plan (see Table 5-2) and future plans Time-frame: 2011 developed for the remainder of the Ompompanoosuc River watershed. 101. The watershed council recommends the Potential key players: RMP, TRORC, DEC, inclusion of minimum building setbacks conservation commissions

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 73 Section 5-4 Transportation- if they allow for the passage of sediment Related Pollution in the that is necessary to maintain a stable stream and if they provide for the passage of fish Ompompanoosuc River and wildlife. Watershed GOAL: MINIMIZE CONFLICTS BETWEEN Transportation-related water quality issues STREAMS’ NATURAL FUNCTIONS AND were rated as one of the top concerns in the TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE. Ompompanoosuc River watershed. This (see page 12 for basin-wide strategies) issue and related strategies for all of Basin 14 are discussed in detail in Section 1-5 of Objective: Reduce conflicts between this plan on Page 10. bridges and culverts and the Ompompanoosuc River’s natural Bridge and Culvert Surveys and Capital Improvement Budgets functions.

The Strafford Conservation Commission 104. Complete bridge and culvert surveys on has completed a bridge and culvert survey all the tributaries to the Ompompanoosuc of the West Branch of the Ompompanoosuc River and compile this information for River and its tributaries. This survey use by towns to prioritize bridge and prioritized the replacement of 11 culverts in culvert replacement. the Town of Strafford shown in Figure 5-7. Potential key players: TRORC, ANR, Town road Two Rivers Ottauquechee Regional commissioners, VTrans Commission completed a survey of select Potential funding sources: 319, 604b, HMGP bridges and culverts on the remainder of the Time-frame: 2008 Ompompanoosuc River watershed in 2006. Figure 5-7. Priority culverts for replacement in This survey identified 15 culverts with Strafford (taken from Blazewicz and Nealon 2006a). Objective: Reduce erosion from road widths less than 40% of the bankfull width, surfaces, ditches and banks. and clean out priority two culverts categorized as priority one culverts, and 12 (TRORC 2007). culverts with widths of between 40 to 50% 105. Provide information to local recreation of bankfull width categorized as priority organizations about erosion control These culvert surveys were done using two culverts which are shown in Appendix techniques for trails, stream and river new survey protocols developed by the A10. TRORC is working with towns in the access points, and proper bridge and Agency to examine the size and watershed on capital budget planning for culvert construction. Develop a proposal configuration of bridges and culverts to replacing priority one structures and to use a VYCC watershed crew to restore determine: if they are large enough to recommends that towns regularly monitor accommodate the flows of the stream,

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 74 impacted sites. Identify sensitive areas lakewide searching and extensive where access should be limited. Section 5-5 Lakes, Dams and educational initiatives. The cost of this Potential key players: VYCC, VAST, VASA Root Wetlands in the program in 2007 was over $117,000 from District Riding Club, Upper Valley Trails Alliance, Ompompanoosuc River state, local and private sources. The Lake Cross-Rivendell Trail Association, VMBA, Coyote Fairlee Association has been developing Hill. Watershed Potential funding sources: VYCC, 319 innovative control methods to increase Time-frame: 2010 Some of the larger lakes and ponds in effectiveness, reduce costs, and lessen the Ompompanoosuc River watershed environmental impacts. 106. Review layouts of municipal garages in include Lake Fairlee, Lake Abenaki, the watershed with each municipality to Miller Pond, Norford Lake, Bebe Pond Invasive species watch programs like the control runoff from salt and sand piles at and Mud Pond (locally called Forsyth state’s VIPs or Vermont Invasive Patrollers municipal garages. Develop a set of cost Pond). The main concerns about lakes can also help slow the spread of invasive effective management practices and and ponds in the watershed include species by catching infestations in their municipal garage layouts that minimize nutrient enrichment, exotic invasive early stages when control is more feasible. erosion runoff and assist towns in species, acidification and toxins, dams To prevent the further spread of Eurasian completing these improvements. and water level fluctuations, and watermilfoil and other aquatic invasives Potential key players: road commissioners, lakeshore protection and enhancement. water body associations must work together selectboard members, Local Roads Program Also discussed in this chapter are dams Potential funding sources: Town funding, C&C, to combat the spread of these species, and Stormwater Mitigation Grants. and wetlands which may not be raise public awareness about the threats Time-frame: 2011 associated with lakes. Background these species cause to Vermont waters. information on these topics and strategies for all of Basin 14 are Wetlands in the Watershed included in Section 1-6 of this plan on There are numerous significant wetlands page 12. along the Ompompanoosuc River watershed and throughout the watershed. This Exotic Invasive Species includes a large wetland complex along The Lake Fairlee Association has been Middle Brook draining into Lake Fairlee, running a Eurasian watermilfoil control remote wetlands along Bear Notch Brook, program for the past 10 years to reduce wetlands in the backwater of the Union the impacts of this invasive plant. This Village Dam, and wetlands at the program began with hand pulling but confluence with the Connecticut River. has expanded to include diver operated Wetlands absorb flood water and suction harvesting, benthic barrier stormwater, filter pollutants and nutrients, placement and a public access greeter provide habit for many species of plant and component. The program also involves

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 75 animals, provide open space, and maintained and where needed restored. Potential key players: UVLT, conservation planning opportunities for education and recreation. This can be encouraged through and zoning commissions, select boards, lake associations Because of these values wetlands in the outreach to shoreline owners, by Potential funding sources: VHCB, Watershed Grant watershed are protected thorough the conservation of important properties, or Time-frame: Ongoing Vermont Wetland Rules, and the regulated through the requirements of identification, restoration and conservation town zoning and planning. The 108. Maintain existing lakeshore vegetation of important wetlands is a strategy included impacts from existing development can through the creation of shoreline zoning in this plan. be reduced by increasing riparian in all watershed towns including vegetation and reducing erosion and language on vegetated lakeshore buffers. Shoreline Protection stormwater runoff from these lands. A Potential key players: conservation and planning Much of the enjoyment of recreation on large section of the southeast shoreline commissions, select boards, lake associations, VLCT, TRORC lakes and ponds is the beauty these of Lake Fairlee was purchased by the Potential funding sources: NA environments provide. While none of the Aloha foundation in 2005 which is Time-frame: Ongoing lakes or ponds in the Ompompanoosuc likely to maintain the natural feel of River watershed are rated as wilderness or this section of lake. 109. Encourage the restoration of shoreline wilderness like by the State of Vermont, vegetation on lakes and ponds in the there are areas of shoreline that are GOAL: PROTECT AND RESTORE THE watershed working with existing groups undeveloped and maintaining the natural NATURAL ENVIRONMENTS OF to apply for grants to cover shoreline shoreline preserves the natural feel of the LAKES AND PONDS IN THE plantings and by holding educational OMPOMPANOOSUC RIVER ponds, filters pollution, and provides critical workshops on good shoreline WATERSHED TO PROTECT WATER wildlife habitat. QUALITY, AQUATIC HABITAT, management. RECREATION AND AESTHETICS. Potential key players: lake associations, conservation commissions, DEC Miller Pond and Lake Abenaki have large (see page 15 for basin-wide strategies) sections of undeveloped shoreline. Miller Potential funding sources: Watershed Grant, 319 Time-frame: Ongoing Pond is adjacent to the Podunk WMA and Objective: Protect areas of existing has limited development in its watershed. natural lakeshore and on developed Mud Pond also has important sections of Objective: Prevent the spread of invasive lakeshores, increase riparian buffers undeveloped shoreline. aquatic and riparian species to watershed and reduce erosion and nutrient runoff. lakes and rivers. Much of the shoreline of Lake Fairlee is developed with many year round houses 107. Ensure the protection of the 110. Continue to increase the effectiveness and seasonal camps. To minimize the shoreline of Miller Pond, Lake and efficiency of Eurasian watermilfoil impacts current and future development, a Abenaki and Lake Fairlee through control in Lake Fairlee. protective buffer around the lake should be voluntary conservation of one Potential key players: Lake Fairlee Association, DEC - shoreline property. AIS

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 76 Potential funding sources: ANC, Local fundraising, groundwater levels to significantly municipal grants impact aquatic habitat. Section 5-6 Impaired and Time-frame: ongoing Potential key players: DEC Hydrology program, Altered Waters in the Friends of the Ompompanoosuc River, Stream 111. Increase communication between lake Alteration Engineer, F&W Ompompanoosuc River associations, municipalities, and Potential funding sources: Watershed Time-frame: ongoing watershed residents and visitors on The Agency of Natural Resources is actions to prevent invasive aquatic and 114. Compile existing ecological responsible for maintaining water quality in riparian species spread. each waterbody in accordance with the Potential key players: Lake Fairlee and Lake Morey information on the wetlands on the Lake Association, DEC - AIS, Federation of Vermont lower Ompompanoosuc River in the Vermont Water Quality Standards. Water Lakes and Ponds, selectboards and conservation backwater of the Connecticut River quality is determined using biological, commissions of Thetford, Fairlee, West Fairlee. from Wilder Dam. Research any physical, and chemical criteria for each Potential funding sources: ANC, Watershed Grant impacts from water level water quality management class. The Time-frame:2010 Department of Environmental Conservation fluctuations on this environment and to migrating birds that use this site. monitors surface waters for conformance Objective: Minimize the negative Potential key players: Norwich Conservation with numeric and narrative water quality impacts of dams in the watershed. Commission, DEC Hydrology program, DEC criteria to document violations and Potential funding sources: CRJC PG, UCM&E determine use attainment. Waters that are 112. Research the feasibility of eliminating Time-frame: 2012 determined to be below the biological, the winter pool at the Union Village physical or chemical water quality criteria Dam to minimize the impacts of water of the Vermont Water Quality Standards are level fluctuations on the listed as impaired. To be listed as Ompompanoosuc River. If this is “impaired”, and included in the EPA- feasible then update the management of Approved List of Impaired Surface Waters the dam to eliminate the pool. the violation of the Vermont Water Quality Potential key players: DEC Hydrology program, Standards must be substantiated by data USACE collected through chemical, physical and/or Potential funding sources: USACE Time-frame: 2011 biological monitoring and the cause or stressor most likely responsible for the 113. Review any large water withdrawal impairment identified. This process is proposals in the watershed to ensure that outlined in the DEC publication 2006 they do not reduce fish passage, alter Vermont Surface Water Assessment sediment regimes, or reduce flows or Methodology Including Vermont Listing Methodology (DEC 2005).

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 77 Table 5-3. Impaired waters in the Ompompanoosuc River watershed (DEC 2007a)

REASON FOR SURFACE WATER SEGMENT POLLUTANT USE(S) IMPAIRED WATER QUALITY ACTION TO RESTORE WATER NAME/DESCRIPTION PROBLEMS AGRICULTURAL • STABILIZATION OF TAILINGS DAM AT TAILING PILE ONE WATER SUPPLY, COMPLETE. COPPERAS BROOK (1 AESTHETICS, • PHASE 1 WILL INCLUDE SURFACE WATER DIVERSION, METALS, ACID HIGH METALS IN DRAINAGE MILE) (Strafford) DRINKING WATER STABILIZATION OF THE WESTERN FACE OF TP-1, AND TAILINGS FROM ABANDONED SUPPLY, AQUATIC REMOVAL FROM COPPERAS BROOK. LIFE SUPPORT ELIZABETH MINE & FROM TAILINGS • PHASE 2 WILL INCLUDE SURFACE AND GROUNDWATER WEST BRANCH OF AESTHETICS, DIVERSION AND FINAL COVERINGS FOR TP-1 AND TP-2, THE OMPOMPANOOSUC RIVER METALS, ACID AQUATIC LIFE TREATMENT OF REMAINING SEEPS FROM TP-1, AND MITIGATION (3.8 MILES) (Strafford) SUPPORT OF TP-3 AS A SOURCE OF ACID MINE DRAINAGE. (STRATEGY 114) LORDS BROOK (0.5 MILES ABANDONED MINE • MEASURES TO ADDRESS THE ACID MINE DRAINAGE ABOVE MOUTH AQUATIC LIFE METALS, ACID DRAINAGE, BELOW "SOUTH IMPAIRMENT IN LORDS BROOK ARE ADDRESSED IN THE UPSTREAM TO RM 3.3) SUPPORT CUT” FEASIBILITY STUDY. (STRATEGY 114) (Strafford) ELY BROOK (aka SCHOOLHOUSE BROOK) HIGH METALS IN DRAINAGE BELOW ELY MINE (2.2 METALS, ACID METALS, ACID FROM ABANDONED ELY • THE FINAL CLEANUP PLAN TO RESTORE THIS SITE IS IN THE MILES) (Vershire, West MINE REMEDIAL INVESTIGATION PHASE AND WILL COMMENCE WHEN Fairlee) FUNDING THROUGH THE EPA SUPERFUND PROGRAM IS OMPOMPANOOSUC RIVER HIGH METALS IN DRAINAGE APPROPRIATED (STRATEGY 115) BELOW ELY MINE (1.5 METALS AESTHETICS FROM ABANDONED ELY MILES) (West Fairlee) MINE & FROM TAILINGS SAWNEE BEAN BR. TO FREQUENT BEACH USACE BEACH AREA CONTACT CLOSURES; HIGH BACTERIA LOWER E. COLI RECREATION LEVELS; SOURCE(S) • COMMUNITY BASED E. COLI TESTING AND COMMUNITY OMPOMPANOOSUC (2.4 UNKNOWN OUTREACH. (STRATEGY 90 & 91) MILES) (Thetford) • RIVER AND WATERSHED SURVEY BRIMSTON CRN TO • OUTREACH ON PROPER SEPTIC SYSTEM MAINTENANCE BELOW W. FAIRLEE CONTACT HIGH BACTERIA LEVELS; (STRATEGY 92) VILLAGE, LOWER E. COLI RECREATION SOURCE(S) UNKNOWN OMPOMPANOOSUC (2.4 MI) (Vershire, West Fairlee) Sections of the Ompompanoosuc River are listed as impaired due to elevated E. coli Acid Mine Drainage also the primary cause of water quality levels. The extent of the E. coli impairment The Ompompanoosuc River watershed impairment in the Ompompanoosuc River on the Ompompanoosuc River will be has a long history of copper mining at watershed. revised based on water sampling discussed both the Elizabeth and Ely mines in in Section 5-1 and will likely include the Strafford and Vershire, Vermont. During the process of copper mining, piles Ompompanoosuc River from West Fairlee While these sites provided copper and of waste rock and tailings were created, to Brimstone Corners. economic development, and continue to which are now the primary sources of have historical significance, they are sediment, acid mine drainage and metals at

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 78 the site. From the initial studies these sites do not pose serious health threats to the public with the exception to localized ground water contamination and lead contaminated soil near copperas factories on the site. However, runoff from the site does cause degradation of the biotic community including both fish and macroinvertebrates (EPA 2006a). Biological monitoring results have shown an absence of macroinvertebrates in Copperas Brook and a decrease in density and number of pollution intolerant species of macroinvertebrates Figure 5-9. Elizabeth Mine during the in the West Branch of the stabilization of tailings pile 1 in 2004 Ompompanoosuc River below Copperas Brook. The biomass of fish is Superfund Site Cleanup also reduced in the West Branch below Both the Ely and Elizabeth mines are listed the confluence of Copperas Brook as superfund sites by the Environmental (Langdon 2002). Ely Brook and the Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA has Schoolhouse Brook show similar been coordinating with the State of impairments to the macroinvertebrate Vermont and local communities to and fish communities and these impacts complete site investigations and develop continue to a lesser degree in the East final cleanup proposals which are well Branch of the Ompompanoosuc River. under way at the Ely Mine and almost complete at the Elizabeth Mine. The runoff from these sites has also reduced recreational opportunities by Investigations have identified four tailings limiting swimming and fishing in these piles at the Elizabeth mine as well as waters, along with discoloring the water extensive mine workings and contaminated and substrate of Copperas Brook and the sediment which need to be addressed. West Branch below the Elizabeth Mine. During the initial site investigation at the Elizabeth Mine, the dam holding back Figure 5-8. An overview of the Elizabeth Mine with major pollution source areas shaded. tailings pile one (TP-1) was determined to

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 79 be in danger of failure. This issue was place or excavated and removed to TP- the scope of impaired waters but have not addressed during the summer of 2004 and 1. Any remaining run-off from TP-3 met water quality standards or are of 2005 as a time- critical removal action will be collected and treated. The EPA concern for other reasons. There are two (TCRA). This action consisted of published a proposed plan for the site bodies of water listed in need of further constructing an earthen dam abutting the to include work in the Lords Brook assessment in the watershed. This includes old dam to prevent a catastrophic failure of watershed and removal of sediments in the West Branch of the Ompompanoosuc the TP-1. During 2006, the west side of the Copperas Brook (EPA 2006a) River from Strafford to South Strafford. TP-1 tailing dam was graded and stabilized This reach of river has received large and a surface water diversion for the lower EPA hopes to complete the major data amounts of sediment from streambank west side was also completed. In 2007 collection activities for the Ely Mine erosion, and has been evaluated by Phase 1 Phase 1 of the Non Time Critical Removal during 2006 and 2007. This would and 2 geomorphic assessments discussed in Action (NTCRA) was completed including allow for EPA to develop a cleanup Section 3. About five miles of the East remaining surface water diversion for TP-1 plan for the Ely Mine during late 2007 Branch is in need of further assessment and tailings pile two (TP-2), tailing removal that would be presented to the from elevated E. coli levels. A community in Copperas Brook. Phase 2, will include community for public comment during water sampling program has shown surface water and groundwater diversion 2008 (EPA 2006b). elevated E. coli levels over the last two and the placing of a final covering on TP-1 years so this section of the and TP-2 and the collection and treatment Altered Waters or Waters in Need of Ompompanoosuc River will be listed as of remaining seeps at the toe of TP-1. TP-3 Further Assessment impaired in the next 303(d) report (See will either be consolidated and capped in There are other waters that fall outside Section 5-1). Finally Lake Fairlee is listed Table 5-4. Local waters of concern (including waters in need of further assessment) in the Ompompanoosuc River watershed (DEC 2007b)

Reason for Water body Town Status Current or Future proposed Actions Concern WEST BRANCH, OMPOMPANOOSUC • DEVELOP RESTORATION PLAN OR CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PHASE 2 GEOMORPHIC RIVER (SOUTH STRAFFORD SEDIMENT PLAN TO RESTORE THE WEST BRANCH’S STABILITY. ASSESSMENT COMPLETE STRAFFORD UP TO (STRATEGIES 96-101 SEE SECTION 5-3) STRAFFORD) E. COLI, WEST FAIRLEE VILLAGE WEST USACE TESTING EVERY OTHER HABITAT ALTERATION, • CONTINUE COMMUNITY BASED E. COLI TESTING OF THE TO SAWNEE FAIRLEE YEAR. VOLUNTEER SAMPLING CHANNEL WIDENING, RIVER HAS RESULTED IN THIS REACH BEING INCLUDED ON BRIDGE, LOWER AND SUGGESTS THIS SECTION MAY EROSION, LAND THE 2008 303(D) LIST (SEE SECTION 5-1). OMPOMPANOOSUC (5 MI) THETFORD BE IMPAIRED RUNOFF THETFORD, • ACTIONS TO EDUCATE CITIZENS ABOUT EXOTIC SPECIES AND LOCALLY ABUNDANT WEST PREVENT THE SPREAD OF EURASIAN WATERMILFOIL TO LAKE FAIRLEE EURASIAN FAIRLEE, WEEVIL PRESENT OTHER WATER BODIES. (SEE SECTION 5-5) WATERMILFOIL AND • CONTINUING MECHANICAL REMOVAL OF EURASIAN GROWTH NORWICH WATERMILFOIL. (SEE SECTION 5-5)

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 80 as altered due to invasive species because of Potential key players: EPA, DEC, EMCAG Eurasian Milfoil which is discussed in detail Potential funding sources: Superfund, state funds for ongoing site maintenance. in Section 5-5. Time-frame: Ongoing

GOAL: RESTORE ALL IMPAIRED WATERS 117. Complete the final cleanup proposal IN THE OMPOMPANOOSUC RIVER and begin the remediation of the Ely WATERSHED TO MEET VERMONT WATER QUALITY STANDARDS AND Mine minimizing environmental IMPROVE THE MANAGEMENT OF ALL impacts and impacts to historical WATERS OF CONCERN BEFORE THEY elements of the site. Restore BECOME IMPAIRED. Schoolhouse Brook to meet VQWS. Potential key players: EPA, DEC, Local Objective: Restore Copperas Brook, communities Potential funding sources: Superfund, state funds Lords Brook, Ely Brook, Schoolhouse for ongoing site maintenance Brook and the West Branch and main Time-frame: Ongoing stem of the Ompompanoosuc River to meet Vermont Water Quality Standards.

115. Complete strategies 91 thorough 93 to reduce E. coli levels in the Ompompanoosuc River to meet Vermont Water Quality Standards. Potential key players: DEC, conservation commissions, USACE Potential funding sources: LaRosa, Watershed Grant, CRJC PG Time-frame: 2012

116. Continue the work of the EPA and the State of Vermont to complete the superfund process to restore Lords Brook, the West Branch of the Ompompanoosuc River and Copperas Brook, to meet VWQS with community input from the Elizabeth Mine Citizen Advisory Group (EMCAG).

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 5 – The Ompompanoosuc River Watershed 81 through basin planning and the Vermont appropriate management practices. The Chapter 6 – Management Water Resources Panel is responsible for Agency works to implement activities that adopting the other designations by rule. restore, maintain or protect the management Goals and Plan Once the Agency or the Panel establishes goals. The current classification system Implementation a management goal, the Agency manages includes three classes: A(1), A(2), and B. state lands and issues permits to achieve Section 6-1 Establishing all management goals established for the Presently, in all basins across Vermont associated surface water. Before the waters above 2,500 feet in elevation are Management Goals for Surface Agency recommends, or the Panel classified A(1) by Vermont statute. In Waters in Basin 14 establishes management goals through a addition the Water Resources Panel or The protection or improvement of water classification or designation of surface members of the public can petition that high quality and water-related uses can also waters as a rule, input from the public on quality waters with significant ecological occur by establishing specific management any proposal is required and considered. value below 2,500 feet be classified as A(1) goals for particular bodies or stretches of The public is also able to present a based upon the public interest. In Basin 14 water. The management goals describe the proposal for establishing management the only A(1) waters include those above values and uses of the surface water that are goals for the Panel to consider at any 2,500 feet in elevation (which are only found to be protected or achieved through time. in the headwaters of the Waits and Wells appropriate management. Management River watersheds). The management goals can be established through the When the public develops proposals objective for A(1) waters is to maintain their following processes which are further regarding management goals, the natural condition. described below: increased community awareness can lead to protection of uses and values by the Waters used as public water supplies are • Classification of waters and designation community and individuals. classified A(2). The only two class A(2) of water management types. waters in Basin 14 are (a) the South Peacham Water Management Typing and • Designation of waters as warm and cold Brook watershed from ½ mile east of Fosters Classification water fisheries. Road which was historically used as water • Designation of existing uses. Since the 1960s, Vermont has had a supply and (b) Mill Pond Brook and its watershed in the towns of Fairlee, Bradford • Designation of waters as Outstanding classification system for waters that and West Fairlee. Mill Pond Brook and its Resource Waters. establishes management goals. Setting water quality management goals is the associated waters are reserved for emergency • Classification of wetlands. use as the Bradford water supply. All the responsibility of the Vermont Water remaining waters in the watershed below The Agency of Natural Resources is Resources Panel. These goals describe 2,500 feet in elevation are Class B waters. responsible for determining the presence of the values and uses of surface waters that existing uses on a case by case basis or are to be protected or restored through

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 6 – Management Goals and Plan Implementation 82 As part of the Water Quality Standards achieve or maintain the level of water occurring.” The following factors are revisions in 2000, the system was changed quality specified by the designations. considered by the Agency when identifying to allow Class B waters be divided into existing uses (VWQS § 1-03(b)). three management types: B1, B2 and B3. Existing Uses This change was made to furnish a greater All surface waters in Vermont are • Aquatic biota and wildlife that use or are level of protection to existing higher quality managed to support uses valued by the present in the waters; waters and to recognize attainable uses that public including swimming, boating, and • Habitat that supports existing aquatic biota, could be supported by improvements to fishing. The degree of protection afforded wildlife or plant life; existing water quality. A simplification of to these uses is based on the management the B1, B2 and B3 designations would be to type or class of the water. In particular • The use of waters for recreation or fishing; say that the spectrum from B3 to B2 to B1 surface waters, however, some uses are • The use of waters for water supply or is described as representing “good,” protected specifically if the Agency commercial activity that depends directly “better” and “best” aquatic conditions. identifies them as existing uses under the on the preservation of an existing high anti-degradation policy of the Vermont level of water quality; and The revised Water Quality Standards Water Quality Standards (VWQS). The • With regard to the factors considered under require that all basin plans place Class B Agency uses a list of specific criteria to the first two bullets above, evidence of the waters into one of the three water identify existing uses during basin use’s ecological significance in the management types. However, the Vermont planning and in the development of river functioning of the ecosystem or evidence Legislature passed bill H154 in 2007 which basin water quality management plans. of the use’s rarity. allows for the adoption of the Basin 11 and The list of specific criteria can be found in Basin 14 water quality management plans Appendix A11. During the Basin 14 planning process, DEC without water management typing collected sufficient information to document proposals; so long as they are adopted prior The Agency identifies and determines the and determine the presence of existing uses to July 1, 2008. These plans must be presence of existing uses of particular for swimming, boating, and fishing on revised within two years of adoption with waters either during the basin planning flowing waters. Waters used as active or proposed water management types or an process or on a case by case basis during emergency public drinking surface water alternative method of protecting water application reviews for state or federal supplies were also identified. The Agency quality in high quality waters. permits. The Vermont Water Quality presumes that all lakes and ponds that exist Standards define an existing use as “a use within the basin have existing uses of Once the Vermont Water Resources Panel which has actually occurred on or after fishing, contact recreation and boating. This adopts the water management type November 28, 1975, in or on waters, simplifying assumption is being used designations for specific waters, it is the whether or not the use is included in the because of the well known and extensive use responsibility of the Agency, individuals standard for classification of the waters, of these types of waters for these activities and all levels of government to work to and whether or not the use is presently based upon their intrinsic qualities and, to

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 6 – Management Goals and Plan Implementation 83 avoid the production and presentation of The following lists are not intended to drinking water supplies may be identified exhaustive lists of all of these waterbodies represent an exhaustive list of all existing during the Agency’s consideration of a across Basin 14. This presumption may be uses, but merely an identification of key permit application or in the future during rebutted on a case-by-case basis during the well known existing uses having public subsequent basin planning efforts. Agency’s consideration of a permit access. Additional existing uses of application which might be deemed to contact recreation, boating and fishing affect these types of uses. on/in flowing waters and additional public Table 6-1. Determination of existing uses of flowing waters for contact recreation (swimming) in Basin 14 Surface Water Location of Use Watershed Town Documentation of Existing Use Ompompanoosuc River Sandy Beach Ompompanoosuc River Thetford Swimming hole at USACE land at Union Village Dam Ompompanoosuc River Ledges Ompompanoosuc River Thetford Swimming hole at USACE land at Union Village Dam Table 6-2. Determination of existing uses of flowing waters for boating in Basin 14 (RM is river mileage measured from the river terminus) Surface Water Location of Use Watershed Town Documentation of Existing Use Wells River From the Wells River F&W access to Wells River Newbury Wells River F&W access and evidence of white water above Adams Paper Company Dam. boating use including annual white water Kayak race. RM 1.8-2.4 Put in/Take out: Wells River F&W Access Waits River From Pike Hill Road in Waits River Waits River Topsham, Rated as highly important for boating (source: Jenkins to Route 25b. RM 1.7-13.8 Corinth, and Zika 1992) Put in: Pike Hill Road Bridge Take Bradford out: Route 25b Bridge Waits River From the Bugbee landing boat launch Waits River Bradford Boating is a regular use from the public Waits River to the Connecticut River. RM 0-0.9 Boat Launch to the Connecticut River Ompompanoosuc From F&W access to the Connecticut Ompompanoosuc River Norwich Boating is a regular use from the Ompompanoosuc River River. RM 0-0.3 River F&W access to the Connecticut River Table 6-3. Determination of existing uses of flowing waters for fishing in Basin 14 (RM is river mileage measured from the river terminus) Surface Water Location of Use Watershed Town Documentation of Existing Use Stevens River From Patneaude Lane to Connecticut River Stevens River Barnet DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on fish excluding Barnet Falls. RM 0-2.2 stocking criteria Stevens River From Peacham Hollow Brook to Barnet Stevens River Barnet DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on fish Center Road. RM 3.8-4.8 stocking criteria South Peacham From West Barnet to Stevens River. RM 0- Stevens River Barnet DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on fish Brook 2.2 stocking criteria South Peacham Within 0.5 miles downstream of Green Bay Stevens River Peacham DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on Brook Loop. 4.6-5.1 public access

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 6 – Management Goals and Plan Implementation 84

Jewett Brook Within Roy Mountain WMA. RM 0.1-1.7 Stevens River Barnet DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on public access Wells River From Ricker Pond to Newbury/ Ryegate Wells River Groton, Ryegate DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on fish town line. RM 6.4-16.2 stocking criteria Wells River From below the Boltonville Falls for 0.5 Wells River Newbury DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on fish miles. RM 4.6 – 5.1 stocking criteria Wells River From .2 miles above the Tenney Pond Wells River Newbury DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on fish tributary to above Adams Paper Company stocking criteria and public lands Dam. RM 1.7-2.6 East Brook Within Pine Mountain WMA. RM 0.9-1.8 Wells River Topsham/Groton DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on public access Keenan Brook Within Pine Mountain WMA RM. 1.3-1.6 Wells River Topsham/Groton DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on and 2.25-2.5 public access South Branch From Noyes Pond downstream to South Wells River Groton DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on Wells River Branch Road bridge. RM3.8-5.0 public access Depot Brook From 0.5 miles upstream of US-232 Wells River Groton DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on downstream to Groton Pond. RM 0-0.9 public access Beaver Brook From the west end of Beaver Brook Road Wells River Groton DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on downstream to Groton Pond. RM 0-1.7 public access Coldwater Brook From 0.5 miles upstream of Boulder Beach Wells River Groton DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on Road downstream to Groton Pond. RM 0- public access 0.75 Waits River From VT 302 to Bradford Dam. RM 1.1- Waits River Orange, Topsham, DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on fish 19.5 Corinth, Bradford stocking criteria Waits River Below Route 5 to Connecticut River. RM Waits River Bradford DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on 0-1.0 public access and fishing use Ompompanoosuc From Mill Village to the Union Village Ompompanoosuc Vershire, West DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on fish River Dam. RM 4.2-20.5 River Fairlee, Thetford stocking criteria Ompompanoosuc From just below the Union Village Dam to Ompompanoosuc Thetford, Norwich DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on fish River the Connecticut River. RM 0-3.9 River stocking criteria and public access Ompompanoosuc From Strafford Village to South Strafford. Ompompanoosuc Strafford DFW identifies fishing as an existing use based on fish River West RM 7.3-10.2 River stocking criteria Branch

Table 6-4. Determination of existing uses of waters for public surface water supplies in Basin 14 Surface Water Watershed Town Basis for Determining the Presence of an Existing Use Mill Pond Brook watershed Waits River West Fairlee, Fairlee, Bradford Maintained as an emergency water supply for the town of Bradford above water intake dam

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 6 – Management Goals and Plan Implementation 85 banks, natural river bottoms and wooded Section 6-2 Implementation of Outstanding Resource Waters land corridor. Although no other waters the Basin 14 Water Quality In 1987, the Vermont Legislature passed have been identified as ORW in this plan Act 67, “An Act Relating to Establishing a there may be additional waters in the Management Plan. Comprehensive State Rivers Policy.” A part basin which merit this designation and for Many state and federal agencies, private of Act 67 provides protection to rivers and which ORW status should be pursued. organizations, community groups and streams that have “exceptional natural, individuals have been involved in developing cultural, recreational or scenic values” Warm Water and Cold Water the strategies in this basin plan. The next through the designation of Outstanding Designations step is the implementation of the strategies Resource Waters (ORW). Depending on In addition to the foregoing classifications by these groups and others. the values for which designation is sought, and designations, (a) Lake Abenaki and ORW designation may protect exceptional (b) Ticklenaked Pond, as well as (c) all The collaborative process of identifying waters through the permits for stream wetlands in Basin 14 and (d) the Waits concerns and strategies ensures that alteration, dams, wastewater discharges, River from the CVPS dam in Bradford to participating groups will continue to be aquatic nuisance controls, solid waste the Connecticut River from June 1st to engaged in implementing the Basin 14 Water disposal, Act 250 projects and other September 30th, are designated for Quality Management Plan. Since the basin activities. management as warm water fish habitat planning initiative included extensive by the Vermont Water Quality Standards. discussions with the community and resource The only ORW designation in Basin 14 is The remainder of surface waters in Basin agencies, the actions of some of the potential the Ompompanoosuc River, from its 14 are designated as cold water fish key players, such as local conservation confluence with an unnamed tributary habitat. Waters designated as warm water commissions and natural resource draining Gillette Swamp and Mud Pond to fish habitat have less stringent dissolved conservation districts, are already aligned in the confluence with the West Branch, a oxygen, temperature and turbidity criteria that direction. For other potential partners, distance of about 3.8 miles. This section of than waters designated as cold water fish the plan will provide ideas, opportunities and the river was designated as an Outstanding habitat (Vermont Water Resources Board the rationale to leverage funding for Resource Water in March 1996 due to 2006). implementation projects. Implementation exceptional natural, cultural, scenic and then needs only a small catalyst to start the recreational values. There are a diversity of process or a guiding hand to keep it recreational opportunities on this stretch of progressing. For some strategies, the river, including swimming, white water Vermont DEC will facilitate the boating, fishing, picnicking, photography implementation process by setting up and hiking. This stretch of river also meetings and providing technical support. includes many unique historic sites, and an Implementation of other strategies will unusual length of river with stable vegetated

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 6 – Management Goals and Plan Implementation 86 require the resources and energy of other Progress Reporting community groups using the plan as a The Watershed Councils and partners will guide. annually address the accomplishments made toward achieving the basin plan The success of the Basin 14 Water Quality goals and the goals of the VT ANR’s Management Plan is not to be limited to the Watershed Planning Initiative. This will implementation of the strategies in the plan. include an analysis of the number of The basin planning process has also strategies successfully completed from the developed a vast network of groups basin plan on a yearly basis. In addition, working together to meet common goals. every year strategies scheduled to be The strength of the network will help completed will be reviewed by the leverage existing funds and support from watershed councils, DEC and key players other organizations. If the process has been to ensure efforts are moving forward and successful, the next basin planning process to identify and address any obstacles will begin with the existing partnerships which may prevent implementation. intact. In addition, a number of projects Further, longer range strategies will be were completed with community partners reviewed to make sure progress is being during the planning process. made and to identify intermediate actions which may be necessary. This review Evaluation of the Planning Process process will keep community partners No planning process is complete without engaged and allow for accountability in feedback on the elements of the plan. achieving the goals laid out in this basin Periodically the Watershed Councils in plan. Basin 14 and their partners and collaborators will review the process and examine accomplishments in planning and implementation. Topics to be considered include the adequacy of the process set forth by the State and its partners, the progress of the basin planning process, reactions of the public to the process, and the adequacy of resources to conduct planning and implementation.

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – Chapter 6 – Management Goals and Plan Implementation 87 Department of Environmental Conservation, Northern Vermont Resource Conservation and References Waterbury, VT. Development Councils, 1995. Vermont Better Back Roads Manual. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Humling, M. 2007. Fisheries Background for Registry, 2004. A Public Health Assessment for the Waits and Ompompanoosuc Rivers. Ompompanoosuc River Watershed Council, 2007 Elizabeth Copper Mine (A/K/A Elizabeth Mine) Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife. Ompompanoosuc River Water Quality Study Summer 2007. Strafford, Orange County, Vermont. US Jenkins J. and Zika P 1992. The Whitewater Department of Health and Human Services. Rivers of Vermont: The Biology, Geography Peacham Conservation Commission, 2005. Arrowwood Environmental, 2005. Bradford and Recreational Use. Agency of Natural Peacham Barnet Water Quality Study Summer Wetlands Inventory. Prepared for the Bradford Resources, Waterbury, VT. 2005. Peacham, VT. Conservation Commission. Kiah, R. et al, 2007. Surface Water Hydrology Piatak, N. et al., 2006. Geochemical Blazewicz, M. and Nealon, M., 2006a. West and Quality at the Pike Hill Superfund Site, Characterization of Mine Waste, Mine Drainage, Branch of the Ompompanoosuc River Corridor Corinth Vermont October 2004 to December and Stream Sediments at the Pike Hill Copper Management Plan. Bear Creek Environmental. 2005. US Geological Survey, Reston Mine Superfund Site, Orange County Vermont. Middlesex, VT. Virginia. US Geological Survey, Reston Virginia. Blazewicz, M. and Nealon, M. 2006b. Phase 2 Kratzer, J., 2007. A Description of Fisheries in Troy A et al 2007. Updating the Lake Champlain Stream Geomorphic Assessment West Branch of the Stevens River and Wells River Watersheds Basin Land Use Data to Improve Prediction of the Ompompanoosuc River Watershed. Bear Compiled by Jud Kratzer for Ben Copans. Phosphorus Loading. Lake Champlain Basin Creek Environmental. Middlesex, VT. Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife. Program. Connecticut River Atlantic Salmon Commission, Lane, E.W. 1955. The Importance of Fluvial Two Rivers Ottauquechee Regional Commission, 1998. Strategic Plan for the Restoration of Morphology in Hydraulic Engineering. 2007. Bridge and Culvert Survey Atlantic Salmon to the Connecticut River Basin. Proceedings of the American Society of Civil Ompompanoosuc River and Major Tributaries. Sunderland, Massachusetts. Engineers, Journal of the Hydraulics Woodstock, VT. Division, vol. 81, paper no. 745. EPA, 2006. Proposed Plan. Elizabeth Mine Schumm, S.A. 1984. The Fluvial System. John Superfund Site Strafford/Thetford Vermont. Langdon, R. 2002 Draft Memorandum: Fish Wiley and Sons, New York. Community Evaluations for the Area of EPA region 1. US Army Corps of Engineers/Agency of Natural Elizabeth Mine Strafford, Vermont. Agency resources 2002. U.S Army Corps of Engineers & EPA, 2006b. Ely Mine Superfund Site, Vershire of Natural Resources Department of Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Vermont Community Update #2 August 2006. Environmental Conservation, Waterbury VT. EPA region 1. Coordination Plan for Operating Federal Flood Nealon, M. and Blazewicz, M. 2004. Phase 1 Control Dams in Vermont. Fisk, S. and Langdon, R. 2005. Interpretation of Stream Geomorphic Assessment Strafford Vermont Agency of Agriculture, 2006. Medium Biological Assessment Data Collected by Conservation Commission Town of Strafford and Small Farm Operation Rules for Issuance of VTDEC and USGS, on Pike Hill Brook Below Vermont West Branch of the General and Individual Permits. Montpelier, VT. the Pike Hill Mine Site Through 2005. Ompompanoosuc River Watershed. Bear Creek Environmental. Middlesex, VT.

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – References, Acronyms and Glossary 88 Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and of Clean Water Act Section 303(d). Vermont Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, Markets, 2007a. The Stevens River Watershed Agency of Natural Resources, Waterbury, Waterbury, VT. Agricultural Chapter. Montpelier, VT. VT. Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife 1998. Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Vermont Department of Environmental Ompompanoosuc River Mainstem Fish Markets 2007b. The Wells River Watershed Conservation, 2005. 2006 Vermont Surface Populations. DFW Memo. Agricultural Chapter. Montpelier, VT. Water Assessment Methodology Including Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife 1993. Vermont Listing Methodology. Waterbury, Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and The Vermont Management Plan for Brook, VT. Markets, 2007c. The Waits River Watershed Brown, and Rainbow Trout. Waterbury, VT Agricultural Chapter. Montpelier, VT. Vermont Department of Environmental Vermont Geological Survey, 1987. Vermont Conservation, 2004. River Corridor Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Handbook for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Protection and Management Fact Sheet. Markets, 2007d. The Ompompanoosuc River on Construction Sites. Agency of Natural Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, Watershed Agricultural Chapter. Montpelier, Resources, Waterbury, VT. Waterbury, VT. VT. Vermont Land Cover Classification Project, 1997. Vermont Department of Environmental Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, 2007. (based on satellite photographs from 1991 - Conservation, 2003. Total Maximum daily State of Vermont, Agency of Natural Resources 1993). loads: 30 Acid Impaired Lakes. Waterbury Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation VT. Vermont Local Roads Program, 1997. Highway Department of Fish & Wildlife draft Long- Access Policy and Program Guidance and Model Range Management Plan GROTON Vermont Department of Environmental Ordinance. Colchester VT. Management Unit. Waterbury, VT. Conservation, 1999. Stevens, Wells, Waits, Ompompanoosuc Rivers Water Quality and Vermont Watershed Initiative Framework Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, 2006. Assessment Report. Vermont Agency of Committee, 2002. Vermont Watershed Initiative, Vermont Stream Geomorphic Assessment Phase Natural Resources, Waterbury VT. Guidelines for Watershed Planning, 2002. 1 Watershed Assessment, Phase 2 Rapid Assessment, Phase 3 Survey Assessment, and Vermont Department of Environmental Vermont Water Resources Board, 2006. Vermont Handbook Appendices. Waterbury, VT. Conservation, 1994. Lake Protection Water Quality Standards. Montpelier, VT. Classification System. Vermont Agency of Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, 2005. Vermont Water Resources Board, 1996. RE: Natural Resources, Waterbury, VT. Riparian Buffers and Corridors Technical Petition of the Town of the Thetford. Great papers. Waterbury, VT. Vermont Department of Environmental Falls, Ompompanoosuc River Docket No. orw- Conservation, 1990. Planning for Lake Water 95-01 Findings of Fact Conclusions of Law and Vermont Department of Environmental Quality Protection, a Manual for Vermont Order. Montpelier, VT Conservation, 2007a. State of Vermont 2006 Communities. Vermont Agency of Natural 303(d) List of Waters. Vermont Agency of VTrans 2007. Handbook for Local Officials. Resources, Waterbury, VT. Natural Resources, Waterbury, VT. Montpelier, VT. Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife, Vermont Department of Environmental 2000. Waits River Trout Evaluations. Conservation, 2007b. State of Vermont Year 2006 List of Priority Waters Outside the Scope

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – References, Acronyms and Glossary 89 EMCAG Elizabeth Mine Community Advisory TNPA Ticklenaked Pond Association Acronyms Group TRORC Two Rivers Ottauquechee Regional EPA Environmental Protection Agency Commission 319 Federal section 319 grants for NPS EQIP Environmental Quality Incentives UCM&E Upper Connecticut River Mitigation and pollution abatement Program Enhancement Fund 604b Federal section 604b pass through funds FEH Fluvial Erosion Hazard USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers for regional planning commissions FEMA Federal Emergency Management USGS United States Geological Survey AAFM Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food and Agency US F&W United States Fish and Wildlife Service Markets FERC Federal Energy Regulatory UVLT Upper Valley Land Trust AAP Acceptable Agricultural Practices Commission UVM Ext University of Vermont Extension ALS Aquatic Life Support HMGP Hazard Mitigation Grant Program VAST Vermont Association of Snow Travelers AMP Acceptable Management Practices LaRosa LaRosa Analytical Partnership VHCB Vermont Housing and Conservation Board ANR Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Program VHCB Vermont Housing and Conservation Board ANS Aquatic Nuisance Species Program LEAP Logger Education to Advance VIP Vermont Invasive Patrollers BASS Biological Assessment Studies Section Professionalism VLCT Vermont League of Cities and Towns BLUE Bartonville Land Use Explorers LMP Lay Monitoring Program VTrans Vermont Agency of Transportation BMP Best Management Practices NEKISI North East Kingdom Invasive Species VRC Vermont River Conservancy C&C Clean and Clean watershed planning Initiative VWQS Vermont Water Quality Standards funds NEKWMD – North East Kingdom Waste VYCC Vermont Youth Conservation Corps CCC Civilian Conservation Corps Management District WEF Wellborn Ecology Fund CCNRCD Caledonia County Natural Resources NFIP National Flood Insurance Program WHIP Wildlife Habitat Enhancement Program Conservation District NMPIG Nutrient Management Incentive Grant WMA Wildlife Management Area CLG Certified Local Government Grants Program WRNRCD White River Natural Resources CREP Conservation Reserve Enhancement NPS Nonpoint Source Pollution Conservation District Program NRCS Natural Resource Conservation Service CRJC Connecticut River Joint Commissions NTCRA Non Time Critical Removal Action CRJC PG Connecticut River Joint Commissions NVDA Northeastern Vermont Development Partnership Grant Association CRWC Connecticut River Watershed Council NVRCDC Northern Vermont Resource CVT Cross Vermont Trail Conservation and Development DEC Vermont Department of Environmental Council Conservation OCHP Orange County Headwaters Project DEC-AIS Department of Environmental ORW Outstanding Resource Water Conservation Aquatic Invasive Species RCG River Corridor Grant Program RM River Mileage DFPR Vermont Department of Forest Parks and RMP River Management Program (Agency Recreation of Natural Resources) DFW Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife SCC Strafford Conservation Commission DHCA Vermont Department of Housing and SEWER Save Everyone’s Wells River Community Affairs TCRA Time Critical Removal Action DOH Vermont Department of Health TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – References, Acronyms and Glossary 90 Aquatic biota - all organisms that, as part biological integrity, of the resource surveyed. Glossary of their natural life cycle, live in or on 10 V.S.A., Chapter 47 - Title 10 of the waters. Biological Integrity – 1) "biological Vermont Statutes Annotated, Chapter 47, integrity may be defined as the maintenance Water Pollution Control, which is Basin - one of seventeen planning units in of community structure and function Vermont’s basic water pollution control Vermont. Some basins include only one characteristic of a particular locale or legislation. major watershed after which it is named deemed satisfactory to society" Cairns such as the White River Basin. Other (1977); 2) "the capability of supporting and Accepted Agricultural Practices (AAP) - Basins include two or major watersheds maintaining a balanced, integrated, adaptive land management practices adopted by the such as Basin 11 including the West, community of organisms having a Secretary of Agriculture, Food and Markets Williams and Saxtons Rivers. composition and diversity comparable to that in accordance with applicable State law. of the natural habitats of the region" Frey Best Management Practices (BMP) - a (1977). Acceptable Management Practices practice or combination of practices that (AMP) - methods of silvicultural activity may be necessary, in addition to any Classification - a method of designating the generally approved by regulatory authorities applicable Accepted Agricultural or waters of the State into categories with more and practitioners as acceptable and common Silvicultural Practices, to prevent or or less stringent standards above a minimum to that type of operation. AMPs may not be reduce pollution from NPS pollution to a standard as described in the Vermont Water the best methods, but are acceptable. level consistent with State regulations and Quality Standards. statutes. Regulatory authorities and Aggradation – a progressive buildup or practitioners generally establish these Conductivity – a measure of the water’s raising of the channel bed and floodplain methods as the best manner of operation. ability to conduct an electrical current, due to sediment deposition. The geologic BMPs may not be established for all directly related to the total dissolved ions in process by which streambeds are raised in industries or in Agency regulations, but the water. elevation and floodplains are formed. are often listed by professional Aggradation indicates that stream discharge associations and regulatory agencies as Designated use - any value or use, whether and/or bed-load characteristics are the best manner of operation for a presently occurring or not, that is specified in changing. Opposite of degradation. particular industry practice. the management objectives for each class of water as set forth in §§ 3-02 (A), 3-03(A), Anadromous – a fish species that feeds and Biological Monitoring - surveys of the and 3-04(A) of the Vermont Water Quality grows to maturity in the ocean, then macroinvertebrate and fish communities Standards. migrates into freshwater rivers and lakes to of lakes, wetlands, rivers, and streams in spawn. order to evaluate the biological health, or Dissolved Oxygen – the concentration of free molecular oxygen dissolved in water.

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – References, Acronyms and Glossary 91 to rainfall/runoff events and sometimes Low Impact Development - a set of Easement – a restriction placed on a piece ice jams. (contrast with flood inundation innovative stormwater management of property to protect its ecological and hazard) techniques that infiltrate, filter, store, open-space values. It is a voluntary, legally evaporate, and detain runoff close to its binding agreement that limits certain types Fluvial geomorphic equilibrium - the source through small, cost-effective of uses or prevents development from condition in which the physically landscape features located at the lot level. taking place now and in the future. In a dynamic nature of fluvial systems is These include practices such as raingardens, conservation easement, a landowner freely expressed over time in response bioretention facilities, dry wells, filter/buffer voluntarily agrees to donate or sell certain to the range of watershed inputs and strips, grassed swales, and rain barrels. rights associated with his or her property, climatologic conditions, and as influenced such as the right to subdivide, and a private by topographic, geologic, and existing Macroinvertebrate – animals without organization or public agency agrees to hold human imposed boundary conditions. backbones and large enough to see with the the landowner’s promise not to exercise naked eye. those rights. Fluvial geomorphology - a science that seeks to explain the physical Mesotrophic – an intermediate level of Existing use - a use that has actually interrelationships of flowing water and nutrient availability and biological occurred on or after November 28, 1975, in sediment in varying land forms. productivity in an aquatic ecosystem. or on waters, whether or not the use is included in the standard for classification of Groundwater – Water that is below the Nonpoint source pollution - waste that the waters, and whether or not the use is ground. reaches waters in a diffuse manner from any presently occurring. source other than a point source including, Impaired water - a water that has but not limited to, overland runoff from Eutrophic – a high level of nutrient documentation and data to show: a construction sites, or as a result of availability and biological productivity in violation of one or more criteria in the agricultural or silvicultural activities. an aquatic ecosystem. Vermont Water Quality Standards, or conditions that cause lack of full support Oligotrophic – A low level of nutrient Fluvial erosion hazard - refers to the for any given designated use for the availability and biological productivity in an endangerment of human investments and water’s class or management type. aquatic ecosystem. public safety resulting from land use choices and expectations that conflict with Impervious – a surface that does not pH - a measure of the hydrogen ion the dynamic and oftentimes catastrophic allow water or other liquids to penetrate concentration in water on an inverse physical adjustments of stream channel and through. logarithmic scale ranging from 0 to 14. A flood plain dimensions, elevations, pH under 7 indicates more hydrogen ions and locations and longitudinal slope, in response therefore more acidic solutions. A pH

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – References, Acronyms and Glossary 92 greater than 7 indicates a more alkaline Riparian – located on the banks of a Total maximum daily load (TMDL) - the solution. A pH of 7.0 is considered neutral, stream or other body of water. calculation of the maximum amount of a neither acidic nor alkaline. pollutant that a waterbody can receive on a Riparian Buffer Zone - the width of land daily basis and still meet Vermont Water Phosphorus – Phosphorus is a nutrient adjacent to lakes or streams between the Quality Standards. which is generally the limiting nutrient in top of the bank or top of slope or mean aquatic systems in the northeast. Because water level and the edge of other land Transparency – a depth measurement taken of this the amount of phosphorus available uses. Riparian buffer zones are typically by lowering a white and black, 8-inch in aquatic systems determines the extent of undisturbed areas, consisting of trees, diameter, Secchi disk into the water to the aquatic plant and algae growth. shrubs, groundcover plants, duff layer, point just before it cannot be seen. and a naturally vegetated uneven ground Point source - any discernable, confined surface, that protect the waterbody and Trophic – a relative level of productivity. and discrete conveyance including but not the adjacent riparian corridor ecosystem limited to any pipe, ditch, channel, tunnel, from the impact of these land uses. Turbidity - the capacity of materials conduit, well, discrete fissure, container, suspended in water to scatter light usually rolling stock, concentrated animal feeding Runoff - water that flows over the ground measured in Nephelometric Turbidity Units operation, landfill leachate collection and reaches a stream as a result of rainfall (NTU). Highly turbid waters appear dark system, vessel or other floating craft from or snowmelt. and “muddy.” which either a pollutant or waste is or may be discharged. Sedimentation - the sinking of soil, sand, Type / Typing - a category of water silt, algae, and other particles and their management requirements based on both the Reference condition - the range of deposition frequently on the bottom of existing water quality and reasonably chemical, physical, and biological rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, or wetlands. attainable and desired water quality characteristics of waters minimally affected management goals. Through the basin by human influences. In the context of an Sources – the land uses, human activities, planning process all Class B waters must be evaluation of biological indices, or where or occurrence of conditions that are the allocated into one or more Water necessary to perform other evaluations of origin of the causes of impairments, Management Types (B1, B2, B3) pursuant to water quality, the reference condition impacts or stresses on river and stream in § 3-06 of the Vermont Water Quality establishes attainable chemical, physical, the basin. Standards. and biological conditions for specific water body types against which the condition of Surface Waters – Surface waters are Waste Management System - a planned waters of similar water body type is waters that flow above the level of the system in which all necessary components evaluated. ground in streams and in lakes and ponds. are installed for managing liquid and solid waste, including runoff from concentrated

Basin 14 “Little Rivers” Water Quality Management Plan – References, Acronyms and Glossary 93 waste areas and silage leachate, in a manner Watershed - all the land within which that does not degrade air, soil, or water water drains to a common waterbody resources. The purpose of the system is to (river, stream, lake, pond or wetland). manage waste in rural areas in a manner that prevents or minimizes degradation of air, soil, and water resources and protects public health and safety. Such systems are planned to preclude discharge of pollutants to surface or ground water and to recycle waste through soil and plants to the fullest extent practicable.

Water quality parameter – the physical, chemical or biological attribute measured to determine water quality.

Water Quality Standards - the minimum or maximum limits specified for certain water quality parameters at specific locations for the purpose of managing waters to support their designated uses. In Vermont, Water Quality Standards include both Water Classification Orders and the Regulations Governing Water Classification and Control of Quality.

Waters - all rivers, streams, creeks, brooks, reservoirs, ponds, lakes, springs, wetlands and all bodies of surface waters, artificial or natural, which are contained within, flow through or border upon the State or any portion of it.

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