Scenic Assessment Handbook State Planning Office Maine Coastal Program

Prepared for the State Planning Office by

Terry DeWan Terrence J. DeWan & Associates Landscape Architects Yarmouth, Maine

October 2008

Printed Under Appropriation # 013-07B-3850-008201-8001

i Credits

Prinicpal Author: Terry DeWan, Terrence J. Permission to use historic USGS maps from DeWan & Associates, Yarmouth, Maine University of New Hampshire Library web . with assistance from Dr. James Palmer, Es- site from Maptech, Inc. sex Junction, Vermont and Judy Colby- George, Spatial Alternatives, Yarmouth, This project was supported with funding Maine. from the Maine Coast Protection Initiative’s Implementation Grants program. The A project of the Maine State Planning Of- Maine Coast Protection Initiative is a first- fice, Jim Connors, Coordinator. of-its kind public-private partnership designed to increase the pace and quality of Special Thanks to the Maine Coastal Pro- land protection by enhancing the capacity gram Initiative (MCPI) workgroup: of Maine’s conservation community to preserve the unique character of the Maine • Judy Gates, Maine Department of coast. This collaborative effort is led by the Transportation Land Trust Alliance, NOAA Coastal Serv- • Bob LaRoche, Maine Department of ices Center, Maine Coast Heritage Trust, the Transportation Maine State Planning Office, and a coalition • Deb Chapman, Georges River Land of supporting organizations in Maine. Trust • Phil Carey, Land Use Team, Maine Printed Under Appropriation # 013-07B- State Planning Office 3850-008201-8001 • Stephen Claesson, University of New Hampshire • Jim Connors, Maine State Planning Office (Chair) • Amy Winston, Lincoln County Eco- nomic Development Office • Amy Owsley, Maine Coastal Planning Initiative Coordinator Maine State Planning Office 38 State House Station Photography by Terry DeWan, except as Augusta, Maine 04333 noted. Maps and graphics by Terrence J. 207.287.6077 DeWan & Associates except as noted. www.state.me.us/spo

ii we are familiar with. Visual resources de- The methodology is based upon and com- Forward fine our sense of place, where we work, parable to the Method for Coastal Scenic live, and recreate. Landscape Assessment with Field Results for Over the past several decades the topic of Kittery to Scarborough and Cape Elizabeth to visual resources has come to the forefront This Handbook is a ‘how-to’ guide for us- South Thomaston (Dominie, et al., 1987), Sce- in the land use arena, not just in Maine but ing the State Planning Office’s scenic inven- nic Inventory Mainland Sites of Penobscot Bay across the United States in general. People tory methodology to identify, evaluate, and (DeWan and Naetzker, 1990), and Scenic are becoming much more aware of their document scenic resources and to identify Inventory: Islesboro, Vinalhaven, North Haven surroundings, and how they influence the scenic viewpoints of state or national sig- and Associated Offshore Islands (DeWan, June quality of life that we all enjoy. nificance for purposes of Title 35-A MRSA 1992). Ch. 34-A (Wind Power Law). It is de- The rapid expansion of commercial and signed to supplement the Maine Depart- Many (often ambiguous) terms are used to residential areas, usually at the outskirts of ment of Economic and Community Devel- describe the way we perceive our sur- the historic town centers, has caused sig- opment’s initial handbook How to Conduct roundings: ‘rural character,’ ‘sense of place,’ nificant change to the rural landscape. The an Inventory of Scenic Areas (Dominie, 1990) ‘open space,’ ‘undeveloped,’ and ‘wilder- Brookings study commissioned by that was part of the Maine Shore Access ness,’ just to name a few. This type of ter- GrowSmart Maine discusses the impor- Public Access Series. minology can be very problematic when tance of visual resources to the overall economic health of the state:

“The state’s sprawling development patterns … are undermining the state’s alluring brand, so important to its current and future economy. Crucial to this brand is the integrity of Maine’s distinctive towns and villages and the stunning natural areas that lie between them. Unfortu- nately, far-ﬂung, often-haphazard residential development is more and more blurring those crisp scenes as it impinges on forests, ﬁelds, and waterfronts all around the state.” (Brookings Institution Metropolitan Policy Program, 2006).

In the broadest sense, visual resources are the visible features that make up the landscape – the landforms, the vegetation, the water bodies, and the cultural patterns that Camden Harbor

iii evaluating management options, unless nothing else, preparation of a scenic inven- the job is an interesting one and provokes there is general agreement about definitions tory makes people discuss the physical lots of thoughtful conversation.’” and expectations. world around them and how the landscape has evolved and continues to change over While this is NOT a handbook to help While the scenic inventory process de- time. communities protect scenic resources, iden- scribed in this Handbook may seem com- tification of what is significant is an essen- plicated and highly methodological at first, In the 1990 handbook referenced above, Ms. tial first step. People who are doing the there is a logic behind it that should quickly Dominie notes: “Please realize that the field work should keep in mind the relative become apparent. This can be a very en- whole process comes across worse on paper fragility of these resources and record joyable, highly interactive process, involv- that it is in practice. As Anne Leslie who thoughts about their preservation. ing a great many members of the commu- inventoried Wiscasset’s visual resources has nity with differing perspectives. If it does said, ‘with companionship and enthusiasm,

Littlejohn Island, Yarmouth

iv Contents

Forward iii Appendices A. Legislative and Other Initiatives A|51 . Introduction 1 1 B. Research A|60 C. Biophysical Regions of 2. Regions of Maine 3 The Maine Coast A|62 D. Site Photography A|67 3. Methodology 7 E. Site Inventory Template A|70 F. Site Evaluation Form A|71 4. Preparation G. Glossary of Terms A|72 Introduction 9 H. References A|77 Starting Out 11 Basic Mapping Techniques 12 GIS Mapping 15 Internet Resources 18

5. Map Analysis 20 Landform 22 Open Land 24 Shoreline Conﬁguration 26 Scenic Features 28 Views to Water 31

6. Field Evaluation 34 Landscape Character 36 Vegetation 40 Composition and Effect 42

7. Ranking and Signiﬁcance 44

8. Scenic Viewpoints 48

1. Introduction

Purpose This handbook should give policy-makers community scenic character when consider- and citizens a set of tools to achieve a ing impacts of development or tracking This handbook is designed to be used by higher level of precision to identify and cumulative impacts over time, and 5) iden- people across Maine – mostly volunteers evaluate scenic resources – using descrip- tifying scenic viewpoints of state or na- with land trusts and comprehensive plan- tive language, illustrative maps, and char- tional significance for purposes of Title 35- ning committees – who are conducting in- acteristic photographs. A MRSA Ch. 34-A (Wind Power Law). ventories of scenic resources in their town or region. The underlying methodology The handbook also provides background By definition, scenic resources are public was developed in the early 90’s by Holly and guidance about using the results of the areas, features, and sites that are recog- Dominie and others at the State Planning inventory in the context of 1) comprehen- nized, visited, and enjoyed by the general Office who recognized a need for an ap- sive planning and land use regulation, 2) public for their inherent visual qualities. proach that was consistent, relatively sim- land conservation planning, 3) setting pri- With this understanding, the methodology ple, and straightforward. orities for land acquisition, 4) maintaining is limited to scenic resources viewable from public places (e.g., roads, parks, scenic turnouts, coastal waterbodies, great ponds, public hiking trails, etc.). There are a multitude of scenic resources in Maine that are only visible from private lands or structures. However, the State has historically limited its consideration of scenic areas and visual impacts to places to which the public has access.

The methodology was developed to evaluate scenic resources in coastal locations. However, it should be applicable to inland areas as well, since it is based upon an assessment of landforms, vegetation, water bodies, and cultural patterns that deﬁne the visible landscape throughout Maine.

Penobscot Bay

1 Background logical, and scenic significance as part of • Islesboro, Vinalhaven, North Haven, and compiling the Register of Critical Areas. Associated Offshore Islands (by Terrence Origins of Methodology. In the late 1980’s J. DeWan & Associates). the State Planning Office (SPO), under the Out of these early efforts came several Critical Areas Program (CAP), first began a broad-scale scenic assessments of public The assessment methodology, as initially systematic approach to identify scenic re- landscapes in the following regions: devised by Holly Dominie and refined by sources along the Maine Coast. Like sev- TJD&A, involves a multi-step process in- eral other states and federal agencies fol- • Kittery to South Thomaston (by Holly volving both office and field evaluation. lowing the passage of the National Envi- Dominie, et al). Since the State has such variety in its land- ronmental Policy Act of 1969, Maine had • Mt. Desert Island and Acadia National forms, waterbodies, and other physical become increasingly aware of the value and Park (by Bruce Jacobson, Holly Dominie, characteristics, regional parameters have to fragility of its scenic resources. The Legisla- and Annette Naegel). be determined to help account for the dif- ture had directed the SPO to conduct inven- • Mainland sites of Penobscot Bay (by Ter- ference between common, noteworthy, and tories of areas of botanical, zoological, geo- rence J. DeWan & Associates and Don distinctive landscapes. Naetzker).

Fort Knox with Bucksport in the background

2 2. Regions of Maine

Levels of evaluation Eco-regions of Maine The process of identifying scenic areas starts by looking at Maine as a series of distinct visual units, ranging from the entire coast to individual sites. This hierarchical approach recognizes the physical context of the land under investigation and makes the evaluator aware of how the scenic area re- lates to a larger whole. It is useful to consider the concept of ‘nesting,’ where scenic areas ‘nest’ inside of ‘landscape units,’ which ‘nest’ inside of ‘regions.’ In more complex landscapes it may be useful to consider ‘sub-districts’ as a fourth scale of evaluation. Finally, as part of this process, the evaluation looks at scenic viewpoints, those individual locations that provide a visual ‘snapshot’ or view of the scenic area.

• Major Scenic Regions. Robert Bailey, US Forest Service, developed an eco- regional map of Maine that divides the state into different biophysical subre- gions defined by landform, climate, vegetation, and soils (Bailey 1995). This Eco-Regions of Maine. Robert Bailey map has been adopted by many agencies (1995) developed the eco-regional map of the State of Maine for the USDA Forest and non-profits, including SPO, Inland Service. Keys et al. (1995) subdivided Fisheries and Wildlife, and Maine Bailey’s map into 19 subsections. Janet Audubon. In 2006, the State Planning MacMahon (1990) developed descrip- Office adapted a coastal classification tions of the major biophysical regions of scheme (Tanner, Perfect, and Kelley, Maine. Descriptions of the Maine Coast 2006) which defined four major subre- from MacMahon are presented in Appen- gions of the coast (shown on page 5). dix C. Maine Natural Areas Program 2008

3 • Landscape Districts. Within each Scenic Region the landscape can be further de- ﬁned by watersheds or other natural boundaries. They are usually recognizable by the public as unique places, often with their own name. The Scenic Inven- tory of Penobscot Bay (right), for example, examined a very geographically distinct and recognizable district within the Island-Bay Coast Region.

• Landscape Sub-districts. In larger landscape districts, it may be very useful to consider smaller ‘sub-districts’ of relatively homogenous physical and visual characteristics. The Scenic Inventory of Penobscot Bay Scenic Inventory Study Area cov- Eleven Sub-Districts were identiﬁed, based upon Penobscot Bay, for example, divided the ered an area from Owls Head to Ellsworth and common physical attributes: landform, shoreline Bay into eleven subdistricts. Bucksport to Deer Isle. conﬁguration, and settle patterns.

• Scenic Areas: These are the smallest divisions in the landscape. They are usually areas of similar physical character and often enclosed by landforms or vegetation or characterized by similar land uses or development patterns. In simple terms these are the outdoor ‘rooms’ that have a more human scale. In evaluating linear landscapes (such as coastlines or road corridors) the observer will notice the edges that signal the end of one place unit and the beginning of the next. They are not deﬁned by political boundaries.

• Scenic Viewpoints: Most scenic areas Weir Cove is identified as a scenic area, noted for Cape Rosier, one of the 11 Sub-Districts, is char- have at least one viewpoint that allows its juxtaposed views of open water (Penobscot acterized by highly configured shoreline, many Bay and Weir Cove) and mountains (Weir Cove small semi-enclosed bays and coves, distinctive the public to see most of the scenic re- Mountain); a highly configured harbor, open villages, and abundance of mooring areas, and sources within it. (See Ch. 8.) fields, small homes looking out to islands. numerous islands.

4 Size of scenic areas Maine’s coastal regions I: Southern Beaches and Headlands (Ar- cuate Embayments): the southern beaches In 1981, the Commonwealth of Massachu- and estuaries that define the characteristic For planning and assessment purposes, the setts updated the Massachusetts Landscape landscape of southern Maine. The area State Planning Office has divided the coast Inventory as a tool for long-range conserva- from the Maine/NH border to Cape Eliza- of Maine into four major regions, as illus- tion planning. Rather than concentrate on beth is one of the most densely populated, trated on the map below. These four re- the seemingly countless number of scenic rapidly growing parts of the State. There is gions are defined by common physio- features and historic resources that com- relatively little elevation, with certain nota- graphic characteristics (geology, landform, prise the Commonwealth, the Inventory ble exceptions, such as Mount Agamenti- water bodies, vegetation, and settlement evaluated the larger landscape and identi- cus. Extensive estuarine systems, coastal patterns). Representative photographs fied scenic areas of at least one square mile wetlands, and barrier beaches are common from each of these areas are found on the with consistently high visual quality. The along the coastline. Islands are generally following page. study divided the State into three catego- rare. ries of scenic quality: Distinctive (4% of the total land area); Noteworthy (5% of the total land area); and Common (the remaining 91%). Massachusetts determined that a minimum area of one square mile (640 acres) was needed to constitute a scenic area.

Rhode Island’s Landscape Inventory started at a minimum size of 20 acres, due to the ﬁner texture of the landscape and the relative size of the state.

The work that has been done to date in Maine has recognized scenic areas as small as several dozen acres. However, these tend to be relatively isolated and of local signiﬁcance. Maine State Planning Ofﬁce

5 II: Indented Shoreline: the mid-coast regions, with its rocky linear peninsulas and deep bays, extending into the great tidal rivers. This area extends from Cape Eliza- beth to Port Clyde and includes Portland, Casco Bay, and Muscongus Bay. The shoreline is highly conﬁgured, with deeply indented shorelines and numerous coves and islands. The land abutting the shoreline consists of rolling hills and steep-sided peninsulas. The area is noted for its abundance of rivers: the Kennebec, Androscoggin, Pre- sumpscot, Royal, Sheepscot, Damariscotta, and St. George.

III: Island-Bay Coast: the region from Pe- III: ISLAND-BAY COAST nobscot Bay to Machias Bay. This highly Porcupine Islands, Bar Harbor scenic part of the coast is characterized by I: SOUTHERN BEACHES AND HEADLANDS well-deﬁned bays, an indented shoreline, Scarborough Beach numerous granitic islands, and island ar- chipelagos. Signiﬁcant elevation changes in parts of the area created memorable juxta- positions of water and landform (Acadia National Park, Camden Hills, Mount Blue). Major river systems and their estuaries (Penobscot, Machias, Narraguagus) dominate parts of the landscape.

IV: Cliffed Coast: the bold rocky headlands and bluffs of DownEast Maine. The easternmost part of the coast extends from Cutler to the Cobscook Bay on the New Brunswick border. The area is characterized by numerous cliffs and escarpments, a moderately indented shoreline, with no major rivers or islands. II: INDENTED SHORELINE: IV: CLIFFED COAST Back River, Westport Island Down East Maine Land for Maine’s Future Program

6 3. Methodology

Approach • Shoreline Configuration: the amount of Scenic indicator ratings irregularity and complexity in the shore- The Maine State Planning Office’s scenic line. Each of the eight Scenic Indicators is as- assessment methodology is based upon a • Scenic Features: specific points of inter- signed a value corresponding to its relative professional approach that relies upon the est, such as islands, bridges, beaches, importance to the evaluation of scenic qual- judgment of individuals trained to evaluate and lighthouses. ity. The maximum rating that any one sce- factors that define scenic quality. The se- • Water Views: the duration of view, type nic area can achieve is 100 points, based lected rating criteria have been demon- of water, and position of the observer. upon the following: strated to be important through research • Landscape Character: land use (both based upon public perception studies of positive and negative), roadside charac- 1. Landform 9 Points what constitutes a scenic landscape. (See teristics, and settlement features. 2. Open Land 6 Points Appendix B, Research.) • Vegetation: quality of the vegetation 3. Shoreline Configuration 6 Points patterns as they pertain to the visible 4. Scenic Features 9 Points Groups and professionals performing sce- landscape. 5. Water Views 30 Points nic inventories using the methodology de- • Landscape Composition: the overall 6. Landscape Character 22 Points scribed in this publication should, as part of integrity of the landscape. 7. Vegetation 9 Points the inventory process, solicit opinions from 8. Landscape Composition 9 Points the community-at-large. This input will Scenic areas are places where these indica- help to verify the relative importance of tors occur in groups or in close proximity Total 100 Points various indicators, account for local senti- with one another. The first five indicators ment, and gain public trust in the approach. are evaluated in an office setting by inter- preting topographic maps and other sources of information and then field check- Indicators ing the results. The remaining three indicators are assessed through field observation. The methodology is based on an evaluation The relative importance of indicators will of eight indicators of scenic quality: vary from region to region with changes in topography, shoreline configuration, devel- • Landform: the three-dimensional aspect opment patterns, open space, and other of the landscape variables. • Open Land: non-vegetated land that allows unobstructed or filtered views into the landscape Schoodic Point, Acadia NP, Winter Harbor

7 Overview of methodology are taken to record data on existing conditions, land use, and management issues. The following is a brief overview of the Maps are created to show public view- steps involved in compiling a scenic inven- points, the geographic boundaries of the tory. Detailed instructions on how to use scenic area, and scenic features within it. the methodology are presented in Chapters 4 through 8. 3. Ranking and Significance. Ratings for each preliminary scenic area are compiled Public input and involvement are key com- to determine if they are of local, regional, ponents throughout the process. See Chap- statewide, or national significance. Areas ter 4 for information on involving the pub- with at least 70 points may be considered of lic. The State Planning Office may be able state or national significance. Further to assist if questions arise during the proc- evaluation is performed to determine if ess. these highly-ranked areas meet the standards for visual accessibility and use and 1. Map Analysis. USGS maps and other public recognition. data sources are analyzed in the office to lay the groundwork for field evaluation. 4. Scenic Viewpoints. Determine scenic Five scenic indicators are evaluated in this viewpoints that give the public views that step: landform, open land, shoreline con- are characteristic of the scenic area. figuration, scenic features, and water views. Results are compiled and tabulated on the Scenic viewpoints Scenic Evaluation Form. A discrete part of the process is the identifi- Groupings of indicators for preliminary cation and evaluation of scenic viewpoints. Penobscot Narrows Bridge, Prospect scenic areas are identified and boundaries Under the Wind Power law (Title 35-A drawn in preparation for field work. MRSA Chapter 34-A) scenic viewpoints are recognized as discrete locations which can 2. Field Evaluation. Field visits are made account for an area’s designation as a scenic to public viewpoints within each of the po- resource of state or national significance. tential scenic areas to evaluate: landscape See Chapter 8 for further information on character, vegetation, and landscape com- the assessment and rating of viewpoints. position.

Photographs are taken from a variety of public viewpoints under different daylight and weather conditions. Extensive notes

8 4. Preparation

Introduction There are many opportunities to involve assessments within that region. Public the general public in this process, both in- participation can be in the form of re- Office evaluation involves collecting data terested community members as well as the gional meetings and/or visual prefer- from existing sources: maps, state and re- general public: ence surveys involving a broad cross- gional agencies, historic inventories, local section of the population. Comprehensive Plans, previous scenic as- • Setting and evaluating criteria to define sessments, and other published sources. In what constitutes distinctive, noteworthy, • Participating in the map analysis of the addition, there are also an increasing num- or common landscapes. This should be study area as well as the field investiga- ber of web-based resources for mapping, done at a regional or sub-regional level tions. This will involve a group of indi- data display, and analysis that should be to assure a level of consistency for all the viduals who have either been trained in considered during this phase.

Scenic inventories should be done in an organized, systematic fashion, keeping in mind both the ultimate audience and the use of the information. This chapter intro- duces a variety of tools and techniques to consider when making the decision to hire a professional or rely upon community volunteers.

Public involvement

The earlier scenic inventories were based upon a professional approach that relied on input from State Planning Ofﬁce‘s internal advisory committees and the staff of the Critical Areas Program. While this may have been adequate at the time, future evaluations should seek broader input from the public at large.

Moose Cove, Trescott TWP. Land for Maine’s Future Program

9 the State Planning Office methodology Define the study area Professionals v. volunteers or are familiar with it through this handbook. It is highly recommended that The study area for a scenic inventory can be This handbook is primarily designed for people involved in the inventory go a single municipality, a group of communi- community groups or land trusts that want through a training program to familiar- ties or unorganized territories that share a to perform their own scenic inventory. ize themselves with the methodology. common resource, a watershed, or some However, some may find for a variety of (Contact the State Planning Office for other defined geographic area. Most inven- reasons that they would rather entrust the resource material and a list of personnel tories tend to follow established political process to a trained professional. There are qualified to offer instruction in the boundaries. many factors to consider in making this methodology.) decision. Scenic areas, like watersheds or wildlife • Acting as an advisory committee to habitats, are not defined or limited by arti- There are several advantages of the profes- oversee the study, provide guidance, ficial lines drawn on a map. Significant sional approach: convene public meetings, review the re- viewsheds often include land in two or sults of the inventory and the evaluation more communities, especially when the • Experience in performing scenic assess- of significance. view extends well into the background ments and recording observations. viewing distance (more than 4-5 miles). • Knowledge of the methodology as it ap- plies to the study area. One alternative to using political bounda- • Objectivity in evaluating relative values ries is to define the outer limits of the study and assigning scores. area by ridge lines. The tops of these hills • Working knowledge of land use issues and mountains often form large outdoor and management strategies to preserve ‘rooms’ which may later be identified as scenic areas. scenic areas spanning more than a single • Contacts with state agencies and other community. data sources. • Ability to produce high quality maps, As part of the preparation process, contact reports, and other information. all the communities that abut or are included in the study area to inform them of Likewise, there are many advantages of the inventory. This would be an opportune using local observers, or a combination of time to solicit information on scenic re- professionals and volunteers: sources (such as water bodies, mountain valleys, and coves) that could straddle • Working knowledge of scenic areas, ac- common boundaries. cess points, gateways, historic sites, and other physical features that may be easily overlooked.

St. Croix River, Robbinston

10 • Experience with culturally significant mendations, create maps, and develop a tion. This is best done by driving the area, areas (places of the heart) that may have final report. The evaluation team should be talking with local residents, reading town considerable emotional meaning to the composed of individuals who a) possess a histories, and reviewing local comprehen- local population. variety of writing, observation, and pho- sive plans and other studies about the area. • Understanding of local land use policies, tography skills, b) are representative of the ordinances, and land conservation ef- various parts of the community or land Introduction to mapping forts. trust area, c) have a good grasp of the natu- • Minimal costs to achieve a base level ral and cultural patterns of the region, d) By their very nature, visual inventories understanding of scenic resources. are able to bring a sense of objectivity to the must compile layers of qualitative and assignment. quantitative data, analyze the significance Starting out and characteristics of that data, and display Before starting the mapping and analysis the results in a manner that is usable by the Scenic inventories require a team approach process, it is important to have a big-picture intended audience. Target audiences are to organize, collect and analyze data, do concept of the study area and a general often lay people unaccustomed to visualiz- field work, write observations and recom- sense of the topography, land features, wa- ing three-dimensional data (landforms) ter features, land use patterns, and vegeta- with two-dimensional products (i.e., maps).

Mapping can be developed in a variety of ways, depending upon the team’s ability, timeframe, and resources. The ﬁnal products can be displayed on United States Geo- logic Survey (USGS) topographic maps or can be produced with Geographic Informa- tion Systems (GIS) software.

The initial scenic inventories sponsored by the State Planning Ofﬁce in the 80’s and 90’s relied upon USGS 7.5 minute topographic maps. Graphics were prepared with a series of hand-drawn symbols on acetate overlays. While this technique may seem crude by comparison to today’s sophisticated computer-based system, the results were easily understood diagrams that served the needs of the project.

11 Whichever method is used for graphic tures. However, USGS maps may be the onto a common base map, different people analysis and display, there are several best and least expensive source of informa- can be working on the project at the same points to keep in mind: tion and may be perfectly adequate, espe- time. When the various data layers are cially in areas that have not had signiﬁcant combined, concentrations of scenic indica- • Symbols used for maps should be clearly development pressure over the past two tors become immediately apparent. understood and consistent throughout decades. the study. Historic USGS Maps • A legend should be developed and added to all maps to facilitate map read- In looking at a community’s cultural pat- ing. terns, it may be instructive to review USGS maps from the past century and compare • Scale consistency. Where possible, the them with current maps. The Government maps generated should be the same scale Information Department at the University to facilitate public understanding. of New Hampshire Library has an extensive on-line collection of historic USGS • A north arrow should be included on all maps of New England. The Maine quad- maps. All maps should be oriented with rangles are typically 1930’s and 1950’s vin- north at the top of the map. tage, but some date to the late 1800’s. The maps on the following page illustrates the Basic mapping type of information available from the techniques UNH collection, focussing on Westport Is- land and the site of the former Maine Yan- Acetate Overlays were used to prepare the maps kee nuclear power plant in Wiscasset. For for the Penobscot Bay Scenic inventory. The following section discusses the various information go to: mapping and data display options avail- www.docs.unh.edu/nhtopos/nhtopos.htm. able to communities and land trusts as they However, there are several disadvantages start the scenic inventory process. of using acetate overlays. The working Acetate Overlays product is not particularly permanent, i.e., USGS Topographic Maps the inks used to draw on acetate can be This technique of using permanent markers erased, smudged, or damaged by certain to draw on sheets of acetate is especially solvents. Large study areas may require a USGS maps of Maine provide a useful way suitable for relatively small survey areas of looking at physical features (e.g., land- considerable number of overlays, creating and inventories where participants have a the need for proper storage. Mapping will form and water bodies) and cultural pat- good working knowledge of the landscape. terns (e.g., roads, structures, and clearings). require a high level quality control, espe- It can be a simple way of producing maps cially when there are multiple people in- Keep in mind that most of the maps are at to identify potential scenic areas with a least two decades old and can give a false volved. Once the acetates are completed, minimum of expense and technical exper- they will have to be scanned and imported impression of current natural/cultural fea- tise. By using multiple layers of acetate ﬁt

12 1893 USGS Map 1944 USGS Map

redit: Maptech, Inc. Online Historic Map Collection 1957 USGS Map 1970 USGS Map C

13 into a graphics program to add notes, la- ‘builds’ can be very effective to illustrate • Photosimulations. Through a simple bels, scale, etc. if they are to be published in the relationships between cultural and cut and paste process (using the Polygo- a report format. natural features. nal Lasso Selection in the Formatting Palette) elements can be added to photo- Photoshop • Annotation. These programs allow graphs to illustrate how change could symbols (for viewpoints, historic sites, or affect scenic quality. Likewise, discor- Starting with a digital copy of a USGS map other features), variable-width lines (for dant elements in the landscape can be (either scanned, purchased from a vendor, fields, view corridors, or the limits of removed by copying a piece of natural or downloaded from a CD collection), it is a scenic areas), and notes to be added to landscape and pasting it over the un- relatively easy task to import it into Pho- maps and photographs for clarity and wanted part of the scene. While the final toshop (or Elements, the less full-featured visual interest. product will not be as polished as those version of Photoshop). Different layers can produced in Photoshop, this is a rela- be created and manipulated, working with • Incorporate Photographs. Site photo- tively quick way to illustrate the effect of copies of the base map. The opacity of data graphs (or other scanned images) can be change in the landscape. layers can be adjusted to examine the inter- easily incorporated as a layer onto a map action of various scenic indicators. to illustrate scenic features. • Tables can also be created in these programs that can be useful in summarizing When the office analysis is completed, data and observations. JPEG’s can be created from the Photoshop file for field checking and for later use in Once the graphics are finalized, the images public presentations and reports. In par- can be used in a number of ways: ticularly complex areas, it may be very useful to enlarge the base information to facili- • Slide shows. This is the most common tate field work. way to use the images. Analysis slides can be particularly effective if the data is PowerPoint / Keynote shown as a series of ‘builds’, starting with a base map or photo, and adding Most people are familiar with Microsoft’s subsequent layers of data, ending with a PowerPoint or Apple’s Keynote for presen- composite image. tations. This software can also be used in a number of ways for scenic inventories: • Printed documents. Slides can be printed to create illustrated flyers or booklets • Graphic Displays. Starting with a base about the scenic inventory. map (either a scanned paper copy or a digital original), progressive slides can • Exported JPEG’s. Individual pages can be assembled with different layers of PowerPoint can be used to create highly effective be exported as JPEGs into page layout graphics for scenic inventories. In this elevation information (e.g., steep slopes, elevation, study, the fill is set to 30% in Format AutoShape to software (such as InDesign) or word and vegetation). Presentations using allow contour information to remain visible. processing programs.

14 GIS mapping lack of detailed local data. GIS requires knowledge of sophisticated digital tools. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a While this bar has been lowered dramati- computer system that allows the user to cally in the past few years – and will con- store, display, and analyze a wide variety of tinue to become easier for land trusts and spatial data. GIS tools facilitate the display other local groups to use – users must have of various data sources and reveal patterns some software and knowledge of where to that may not be obvious in other formats, find relevant data. Due to the complexity such as spreadsheets or charts. Many of of most GIS software, it is generally diffi- Maine’s larger communities have GIS soft- cult for the untrained person to add accu- ware and use it extensively for planning rate, locally collected data to the system. and other purposes. Using GIS Any scenic inventory created by or for SPO for purposes of the Wind Power law (see Creating maps in GIS and analyzing data 35-A MRSA §3451(9)(H)(2)) must use GIS or should follow a well-defined process to a comparable electronic technology. produce the best results in a timely fashion:

• Gather and download data. Collect Powerpoint was used to create this exhibit illus- GIS for Scenic Assessment trating periodic viewpoints and view direction. available information from the state data There are many advantages to using GIS in resources (see below) and the town(s) scenic assessments. Most importantly, data that will be covered in the study area. • Posters. With attention to the target layers can be combined in many combina- This will generally take from 1-6 hours, resolution and the graphic components tions to look for and analyze patterns. depending on the number and locations of the images, slides can be printed on Once the data is loaded into the computer, of data layers being used. large-format printers to create posters GIS allows users to create a variety of maps suitable for public presentations and in both the office evaluation and final • Organize data in software. Bring the displays. analysis. GIS is most suitable for scenic data into the selected software and sym- assessments over a larger region because of bolize for clarity and usefulness. Data • Other. Slide shows created in Power- its ability to analyze large data sets that may also be clipped to town boundaries Point or Keynote can be converted to would be impractical to review by eye or or it may be desirable to merge multiple PDF documents, QuickTime movies, or hand. Another advantage of using GIS is data sets together. This step will gener- saved as web pages, making them highly the availability of base data from the Maine ally take from 1-3 hours. suitable for publication on websites and Office of GIS. for transmitting via electronic media. • Develop and print maps. Develop a Disadvantages of using GIS tend to center standard set of maps to show various around technological capacity issues and data layers in useful combinations. Add labels, legend, north arrow, scale and

15 other data (such as digital photographs). This will generally take 1-2 hours to set up base mapping and 2-8 hours to label and print, depending on the size of the area and the complexity of the data.

• Analysis. There are a variety of further analyses that can be done to enhance the scenic assessment, using data layers from existing sources. These include slopes analysis, hillshade, shoreline variation, and view sheds. This process could take anywhere from 1 to 20 or more hours, depending on the complexity of the analysis and the skill of the operator.

• New data layers from ﬁeld information. Not all of the available software allows users to enter new data collected in the ﬁeld. If it is technically possible, data (including site photos) can be entered into the GIS for further use, either by itself or in combination with other data layers. This step may take anywhere from 1 to 10 or more hours depending on the complexity of the analysis.

Pros/Cons of GIS Consultants

GIS mapping and analysis can be done by GIS Map of a portion of outside consultants, experienced citizens, Westport Island created or a combination of the two. There are ad- from Maine Ofﬁce of GIS data. vantages and disadvantages to each approach. The main advantage of hiring consultants is their expertise with software and data. Also, it may assist an overburdened committee by allowing them to focus on Spatial Alternatives

16 collecting local data rather than spending signiﬁcant time developing the GIS.

While there are signiﬁcant cost and data management advantages of doing every- thing in house, it can place a time con- straint on volunteers developing the data. A combination of consulting and volunteer time may allow the group to focus on the most important tasks, and provide some training and volunteer experience in new areas of GIS, while still allowing control over the cost and timeline.

Results

Results can be displayed by creating a layer identifying key scenic resources. Even if GIS is not used during the rest of the process, it would be very useful to have the final assessment created digitally so that it GIS Map Analysis of a portion of Westport Island (l) compared to USGS map of same area (r). could be incorporated with other data sets during decision making. Maps displaying Vector (Line Based) Data Layers Raster (Grid) Data Layers. Land cover, base data, field evaluation and final results USGS quads, and orthophotos can all be can be printed in a variety of sizes, ex- • Contours provide topographic informa- used as backgrounds for various maps with ported to Powerpoint, or as PDF files. tion from USGS 7.5’ quad sheets. any combination of vector data. The ME- • National Wetland Inventory (NWI) pro- DEM10 data needs to be further analyzed Data Availability vides polygons and Cowardin classifica- to create useful data. tion system of wetlands as an attribute. There are many data layers available from • E911 Roads is used to show road loca- • MECLD. Land cover data created in the Maine Office of GIS. These data can be tions and road names. 2004 from Landsat and SPOT imagery. downloaded from the following site: • HYD24 contains ponds, rivers, coastline, • MEDEM10. 10 meter Digital Elevation http://apollo.ogis.state.me.us/catalog/cat and streams. Model. This can be used to create slope, alog.asp Layers that may be most useful to • Coastal_Bluff_Hazards identifies bluff ar- aspect, and other derived data sets with scenic inventories include: eas along the coastline. additional software. • METWP24 provides Maine town • DRGCLIP. These are images of the USGS boundaries. Quads with all the text and border data

17 clipped. The images can be put together • MapInfo (www.mapinfo.com) Reserve, University of Maine Machias, and in GIS software to create a single seam- • GoogleEarth Pro US Fish and Wildlife Service. Other sources less map of the study area. http://earth.google.com/earth_pro.html of GIS services are regional planning agen- • Ortho Photo Layers. (ortho_1f, ortho_2f, • Other open source and proprietary soft- cies and local consultants. ortho_ff, ortho_hf.) This aerial photog- ware packages raphy is available from 2001-2006, de- Internet resources pending on the location. GIS Resources The last few years have seen a remarkable GIS Software The State has a number of GIS consulting number of new products that can be an in- resources that may be available to commu- valuable asset to communities and land There is a wide variety of GIS Software nities and land trusts that may not have trusts. These tools should make the ofﬁce available, both in the marketplace and as local capabilities. GIS Service Centers for evaluation process considerably easier (and free downloads. Coastal Land Trusts are funded through the more enjoyable), especially for lay partici- • ArcExplorer (free download from Maine Coast Protection Initiative pants. www.esri.com) (http://www.protectcoastalmaine.org). • ArcReader (free but needs data prepared These centers were created to provide low Google Earth provides a continuous pho- through other software) cost GIS services and training to land trusts tograph of the entire world superimposed • ArcView (provides more functionality, in their service areas. The current centers on a three-dimensional model. By a simple but will require some familiarity) are Sheepscot Valley Conservation Associa- set of mouse-based commands, the user can • DeLorme XMap (www.delorme.com) tion, Wells National Estuarine Research

Digital aerial photograph of Wolfes Neck, Freeport Google Earth Pro image of same area. Google Earth Pro

18 tilt the image to see the landforms in three can be rotated and examined in detail dimensions, then ‘fly’ through the land- from an infinite number of viewpoints. scape from any altitude. The interface allows the user to fly to a location by simply Google allows the use of their images typing in an address. Multiple data layers on websites, blogs, or in Word docu- include roads, water bodies, parks, ceme- ments as long as the copyright and teries, schools, and other points of interest. Google logo is preserved. If there is a question, Google has an on-line process Not all of Maine is currently covered by to obtain rights clearance. Google’s high-resolution photography. Much of Downeast Maine, for example, is Google SketchUp allows three- represented by older, grainy photographs dimensional images to be added to the which provide only basic information data in the form of models created in Sparhawk Mill, Royal River, Yarmouth, looking north about landforms and settlement patterns. SketchUp or obtained from the Google In some instances the photographs may not image library. This can be a very use- be properly stitched together, resulting in ful tool in preparing preliminary visual what appears to be seismic shifts in the impact assessments of large-scale de- ground plane. The photographs are also velopments such as cell towers, wind not dated, so it is impossible to tell how energy facilities, or tall buildings. current the images are. Users must keep in mind that 3-D views are created with 2-D Microsoft’s Live Search Maps information, so there is no ‘height’ to trees, (http://maps.live.com) is an internet buildings, or other structures. search engine that combines satellite photographs and more traditional GoogleEarth Pro is a professional version maps. A recent addition is Bird’s-eye of GoogleEarth that provides a greater ar- imagery, which provides 45-degree ray of tools (e.g., a distance mapper), more views of the landscape with very high- Same location, looking south output options, and greater clarity in map- resolution photographs (six inches per ping resolution. It is available on a sub- pixel). Where this feature is available Microsoft Live Search Microsoft’s Live Search provides high resolution aerial scription basis from Google. (it does not cover all of Maine as of photographs from four different viewpoints. 2008) the photographs allow the user to GoogleEarth Pro allows the user to create look at the landscape from four sepa- polygons (two-dimensional shapes) repre- rate aerial viewpoints (north, south, the landscape. This site also allows the user senting the boundaries of designated scenic east, and west) as if hovering overhead in a to toggle between road maps and aerial areas onto the base photograph. The helicopter. Images can be enlarged with a photographs. shapes can then be superimposed onto zoom tool that enable the user to locate and GoogleEarth Pro to create a three- study significant buildings, large trees, dimensional view of the scenic area that bridges, open spaces, and other elements of

19 5. Map Analysis

The map analysis will evaluate five sepa- Since distinctiveness is a relative term, this The following of regional indicators (be- rate (though very much interrelated) scenic exercise evaluates what constitutes a com- low) is based upon the earlier work for the indicators: mon landscape, when it is noteworthy, and State Planning Office by Dominie (1987) when it is truly distinctive. Points are as- and DeWan and Naetzker (1990). These • Landform: the three-dimensional aspect signed to the indicators when they meet a values should be considered as starting of the landscape. certain pre-determined quantifiable thresh- points in determining relative values in the • Open Land: non-vegetated land that old. For example, a sampling of hilltops Map Analysis step. Adjustments may have allows more distant views into the land- along the coastline of Penobscot Bay to be made to account for regional varia- scape. (Island-Bay Coast) showed that the average tions based upon field observations. • Shoreline Configuration: irregularity height is 290’. Distinctive landforms are and complexity in the shoreline. generally in excess of 600’ above sea level. • Scenic Features: focal points such as is- Mountains and hills in this category in- Evaluation Form lands, bridges, beaches, lighthouses. clude Mt. Battie (740’), Mt. Megunticook • Water Views: the duration of view, type (1,204/1,385’), and Blue Hill (920’). The evaluation form (shown on the follow- of water, and observer position. ing page and provided full-size in Appen-

The result of this process will be a preliminary map that will form the basis for the ELEVATION SLOPE OPEN LAND ﬁeld evaluation discussed in Chapter 6. Examples of different mapping techniques SOUTHERN 100’–200’ 1 pt. 20% – 40% 2 pts. 25–50 ac / filtered view 3 pts. BEACHES 200’–400’ 3 pts. >40% 3 pts. >50 ac / filtered view 4 pts. are provided throughout this handbook >400’ 6 pts. 25–50 ac / unobstructed 5 pts. and are discussed in Chapter 4. >50 ac / unobstructed 6 pts.

INDENTED 100’–200’ 1 pt. 27% – 40% 2 pts. 25–50 ac / filtered view 3 pts. Regional indicators SHORELINE 200’–400’ 3 pts. >40% 3 pts. >50 ac / filtered view 4 pts. >400’ 6 pts. 25–50 ac / unobstructed 5 pts. >50 ac / unobstructed 6 pts. The ﬁrst step in the process is to set values for certain scenic indicators – Elevation, ISLAND-BAY 300’–450’ 1 pt. 25% – 40% 2 pts. 50–100 ac / filtered view 3 pts. Slope, and Open Land – that recognize re- COAST 450’–600’ 3 pts. >40% 3 pts. >100 ac / filtered view 4 pts. >600’ 6 pts. 50–100 ac / unobstructed 5 pts. gional differences. This will determine at >100 ac / unobstructed 6 pts. what point a feature becomes important enough to be considered scenic. CLIFFED 100’–150’ 1 pt. 25% – 40% 2 pts. 50–100 ac / filtered view 3 pts. COAST 150’–200’ 3 pts. >40% 3 pts. >100 ac / filtered view 4 pts. >200’ 6 pts. 50–100 ac / unobstructed 5 pts. >100 ac / unobstructed 6 pts.

20 dix F) will be used to record numerical rat- SCENIC INVENTORY EVALUATION FORM DESKTOP SUBTOTAL line. These results ings and other information about potential can be used to establish a preliminary rank- Location ______Date ______scenic areas. After the initial office map- ing of potential scenic areas within the ping is done, look for clusters of scenic in- SI SC IP INDICATORS COMMENTS study area. dicators – views, openings, notable land- 1. Landform forms, configured shorelines – that may Elevation FIELD EVALUATION. In a similar indicate possible scenic areas. (See page 4 Slope manner, total the scores from the field work for the description of what constitutes a 2. Open Land and record it on the FIELD EVALUATION 3. Shoreline Configuration scenic area.) To qualify for field evaluation line. 4. Scenic Features there should be at least two indicators 5. Scenic Quality of Water TOTAL SCORE within 1/4 mile. The actual number of in- Duration of View . Finally, add the Desktop dicators should be set after the initial map Type of Water Subtotal and the Field Evaluation scores analysis is done and the scope and number Quality of Horizon and enter the sum on the TOTAL SCORE of indicators is apparent. Indicators Present line. This number will be the basis for de- DESKTOP SUBTOTAL termining the relative significance of each

Begin a Scenic Inventory Evaluation Form 6. Landscape Character of the scenic areas within the study area. for each potential scenic area identified by Land Use the map analysis. This will be a two-part Roadside COMMENTS. Record comments on the Characteristics process: the first is done ‘in the office on the Settlement form during the office evaluation and the Characteristics field work. Be as specific as possible about desktop’, the second part is done in the 7. Vegetation field. 8. Composition & Effect what is visible, what has changed (from FIELD EVALUATION map or air photo data), and what contrib- SI: Special Interest. Note areas or points utes or detracts from the scene. Also record TOTAL SCORE of particular scenic or cultural interest. any adjustments that the group felt was During the field work phase, record obser- SI: Special Interest necessary between the initial point assigned SC: Scoring vations and photograph the indicators to IP: Indicators Present from the office work versus the number document how they influence the character Comments______give for field observations. ______of the landscape. ______Be sure to record the time of the field visit and the numbers of the photographs from SC: Scoring. Assign a score for each of the ter the total number on the Indicators Pre- each of the viewpoints visited. indicators, based upon the office and field sent line. As noted above, the presence of evaluation (see following chapters). If cluster of indicators is used in determining working in a group, use an average score potential scenic areas. for each of the 8 indicators. DESKTOP SUBTOTAL. Tally the scores IP: Indicator Present. Mark this box if a for each of the five indicators (some may scenic indicator may be present (as deter- not have any points) and record it on the mined from the office/desktop phase). En-

21 1. Landform

Landform, along with water bodies, vegetation, and cultural modiﬁcation, is one of the basic ways of understanding and describ- ing the landscape. There are two aspects of landform to be evaluated: elevation (height above a certain base level) and slope (the Low hills above South Bristol, part of the angle of the ground relative to a horizontal common landscape of the Damariscotta River line). In general, as the elevation and/or slope becomes more pronounced (and thus creating more contrast and dynamic lines in the landscape), the scenic value of the landscape will increase.

Evaluation

Elevation This initial step will determine the location Elevation Analysis can be done by hand (using and extent of the significant physical fea- acetate overlays, PowerPoint, or Photoshop) or by tures in the landscape: ridge tops, promi- GIS (see example on page 18). nent hills, and mountains. Ridgetop on Westport Island from Rt. 144 Bridge, as seen on map to left • Locate the highest points of land in the • The regional parameters will set a nu- study area by evaluating USGS topo- meric value for distinctive features (e.g., graphic maps or by using a GIS system above elevation 600). Find that contour to identify elevation ranges. on the map and highlight it, and fill the area in with a contrasting color (see ex- • Following the parameters for the region, ample, above). determine which landforms (if any) are 1) distinctive: i.e., named hills or moun- • The parameters will also set a range of tains dramatically rising about the sur- elevations for noteworthy landforms rounding landscape; 2) noteworthy: i.e., (e.g., between elevation 450 and 600). usually named features that add visual Find the lowest elevation in the range, interest to the surrounding landscape; or outline it, and fill in the area so it stands 3) common and lacking particular scenic out on the map. Select a color that com- influence. plements the one selected for distinctive Ducktrap Mountain (el. 715) in Lincolnville, a landforms. distinctive peak in western Penobscot Bay

22 Slopes This step will determine where the land is steep (slopes >25%) or very steep (slopes >40%). A 25% slope rises 25 feet for every 100 feet of horizontal distance. Slopes in these categories are considered unbuildable in many municipalities since they tend to be highly erodible and difﬁcult to access and stabilize. Steep slopes are also recognized for their visual sensitivity, since the diagonal lines that they create when meet- Slopes in excess of 25% are generally consid- Slope is measured as a ratio of rise (vertical ing the sky is dynamic and tend to draw ered unbuildable and should be protected. elevation) over 100’ of run (horizontal length) the eye. termined either by hand or by computer steep slope which are at least one acre in using GIS technology. size (approximately 208’ x 208’).

• Determine areas where the slope exceeds • Fill in the resultant shapes with lines 25% (steep). This can be done by hand running perpendicular to the contours: using the key at the bottom right of the farther apart for 25-40% slopes, and rela- Scenic Inventory Template (found in tively close together for slopes >40%. Appendix E). Position the right edge of See the example from the Camden Hills the template on one bold (100’) contour. on left. If the next bold contour falls between the 25% and 40% lines, the slope at that point is within that range. Find the point where the slope is 25% and mark it on the map. Continue in this manner to determine the extent of slopes within SCORING this range. See chart on p. 20 Steep hillsides above Camden have slopes in the 25-40% range (wider spaced lines) and greater • In a similar manner, use the template to Elevation than 40% (closely spaced lines) determine where slopes are greater than 300’ – 450’ 1 Point 40% (very steep). 450’ – 600’ 3 Points Over 600’ 6 Points USGS topographic maps are used to evaluate the degree of slope. The slope is steep- • Connect the marks that deﬁne the edge Slope est where the contour lines are spaced close of the two slope categories with a heavy 25% – 40% 2 Points together. Like elevation, slopes can be de- line. Concentrate on continuous areas of > 40% 3 Points

23 2. Open land Keep in mind that much of Maine’s coastline was denuded a century ago as forests Open (non-forested) land can be found in were harvested for shipbuilding, construc- many forms: cultivated hayfields, pastures, tion materials, agriculture, and fuel. The abandoned farmland, open water wetlands, relatively rare open views of today were play fields, etc. Land use diversity – espe- often commonplace in the mid 1800’s. cially involving agricultural and natural conditions – is an important predictor of The relative size of open land will vary scenic preference. Open space in Maine’s from town to town and region to region. mostly forested landscape can add variety, As noted above, the scoring table may be complexity, and visual interest. Openings adjusted to account for regional differences. along the coast frequently provide visual If adjustments are made, the reasons for access to the water or other scenic features them should be documented as part of the Open field looking into Bounty Cove, Islesboro in the landscape. scenic inventory process.

Evaluation Make a preliminary determination of where open land exists within the study area, its relative size, and its degree of openness.

• Locate open areas based upon USGS mapping. These will show up as white patches against the green background. Since these maps are generally several decades old, the information will have to be veriﬁed during the ﬁeld work. Mark the candidate areas on the map for further evaluation.

• Visit each of the candidate areas using GoogleEarth and/or Maps.live.com for more current views. These digital tools should also be used to look for recent development activity, trees, or other ob- structions that may block views to the Air Photo: Google Maps water or other scenic features. Comparison between USGS (l) and recent air photo. Many USGS maps are 25-40 years old, and land use patterns have changed, often dramatically, over the past decades.

24 • Determine the approximate acreage of the open land. (One acre is 43, 560 square feet, or approximately 208’ x 208’; see the Scenic Inventory Template for a five-acre square.) Area can be calculated by a number of methods: measuring and then multiplying the length by the width; overlaying the five-acre measurement from the Template; using the area calcu- lation tool in GoogleEarth Pro; measuring the area of the polygon that represents the open space in GIS; or using a planimeter, a mechanical or electronic device that measures the area of irregu- lar shapes. Large fields (> 5 acres) with filtered views to Casco Bay, Wolfes Neck, Freeport

• Record the area on the map along with the approximate boundaries.

SCORING See chart on p. 20

Open land 1 - 5 acres w/ ﬁltered view 3 Points > 5 acres w/ ﬁltered view 4 Points 1 - 5 acres w/ unobstructed view 5 Points > 5 acres w/ unobstructed view 6 Points

Wolfes Neck Farm, Freeport Elevated view toward Eggemoggin Reach over large blueberry barren. Caterpillar Mountain, Sedgwick

25 3. Shoreline configuration

Configuration refers to the amount of complexity or irregularity in the shoreline. Shorelines with coves, points, islands, bays, peninsulas, and other features are considered more highly configured (and therefore more scenic) than those with straight, un- complicated shorelines. The perception of space, or degree of enclosure, is greater in a highly configured shoreline.

Evaluation Determine where opposing shorelines (e.g., the space between the mainland and an island or the opposite sides of a cove) are between 0 to 1/4 mile apart (highly configured), or between 1/4 to 1/2 mile apart (moderately configured). Do this either by measuring with an engineer’s scale or by using the Scenic Inventory Template in- Configured shorelines of Littlejohn Island (foreground) and Cornfield Point on Cousins Island, Yarmouth cluded in Appendix E and illustrated on the following page.. • The inner circle has a diameter of 1/4 the opposing shorelines are between 1/4 miles at a scale of 1” = 2000’, which will and 1/2 mile apart (moderately config- be suitable for a 7.5 minute USGS map. ured). Where this condition occurs, If the circle does not fit into the space mark the map with a series of longer, between opposing shorelines, then the less closely spaced lines perpendicular to distance is less than 1/4 mile (and the the shore. shoreline is highly configured). Where this condition occurs, mark the map with See following page for examples and pho- a series of short, closely spaced lines, tographs of both highly configured and perpendicular to the shoreline. moderately configured shorelines.

• Use both circles (the larger one has a diameter of 1/2 mile) to determine where Highly conﬁgured shoreline of Camden Harbor

26 0 MILE SCENIC INVENTORY TEMPLATE 1”=1000’ 5 ac 1/2 Mile 1/4

1/4 Mile 1/2 25% 40% SLOPE 3/4

Use the Scenic Inventory Template to determine where shorelines are highly conﬁgured (opposite shoreline within 1/4 mile) or moderately conﬁg- ured (between 1/4 and 1/2 mile).

SCORING

Shoreline configuration Conﬁgured w/in 1/2 mile 3 Points Conﬁgured w/in 1/4 mile 6 Points

Highly conﬁgured shoreline of Crow Cove, Islesboro. See map above. Moderately conﬁgured shoreline of Seal Harbor, Islesboro. See map above.

27 4. Scenic features

Maine is well known for its iconic images of lighthouses, islands, beaches, bridges, cliffs, working harbors, villages, and historic sites. Memorable scenic features, both natural and cultural, can have a positive inﬂuence on the perception of scenic quality.

Scenic features may be focal points (e.g., Cribstone Bridge, Bailey Island, Harpswell church steeples or individual islands), linear elements (e.g., sand beaches or a rocky Evaluation shoreline), or extensive areas of interest The work in this section will involve con- • Research published data sources such as: (e.g., historic districts). A single scenic fea- tact with local and state agencies and data DeLorme Maine Atlas and Gazetteer ture alone may not be enough to designate sources to determine the type, number, and (for parks and recreation areas, hiking an area as scenic. The inventory will be relative location of scenic features. trails, historic forts, lighthouses, historic looking for groupings of scenic indicators sites, nature preserves, sand beaches, derived from both the office and field • Contact state resource agencies for in- scenic waterfalls, and unique natural evaluation. formation on properties or sites within areas); Maine Rivers Study (scenic river the study area: The Land for Maine Fu- segments, available through State Plan- tures Board (land purchased or pro- ning Office); Maine Lakes Study (scenic tected by LMFB funding); Maine His- lakes within the organized townships, toric Preservation Commission (historic available through Maine Department of structures, places, and districts); Maine Environmental Protection). Bureau of Parks and Lands (State parks, trails, and other outdoor recreation ar- • Contact local resources such as Munici- eas); Maine Department of Inland Fish- pal Planner, Parks and Recreation Di- eries and Wildlife, regional offices rector, and Code Enforcement Officer (wildlife viewing areas, state game pre- (natural/scenic inventories for Compre- serves and wildlife management areas); hensive Plans; scenic roads; significant Maine Department of Transportation viewpoints); Conservation Commis- (Scenic Byways, picnic areas, and road- sions (trail plans, unique natural areas, side rest areas); and Maine Natural Ar- wildlife viewing areas, etc.); Historic eas Program (registered Critical Areas Societies (historic cemeteries, structures, within public domain). and places). Portland Head Light, Cape Elizabeth

28 • “Visit” each of the scenic features in GoogleEarth and/or Maps.live.com to get a better sense of their location, prominence, and surrounding land use.

• Note the location of the scenic features on the map, using symbols that repre- sent the type of feature.

• Determine where the feature(s) is relative to the potential scenic area. If the feature is within the area or within 1/2 FOREGROUD: w/in 1/2 miles mile, it is within the Foreground; if it is Pemaquid Point Light, Bristol between 1/2 mile and 4 miles it is considered part of the Midground; if it is greater than four miles, it is part of the Background. Symbols are used to denote Scenic Features: harbor, islands, lighthouse. The final determination of significance will be made during the field evaluation, which will consider surrounding land use, the integrity and condition of the feature, and its prominence in the landscape.

MIDGROUND: 1/2 TO 4 miles Vinalhaven Harbor SCORING

Scenic features Signiﬁcant Feature in Background (> 4 miles) 1 Points Signiﬁcant Feature in Midground (1/2 – 4 miles) 3 Points More than 1 feature with at least one in midground 6 Points Multiple Features in Foreground (within 1/2 mile) 9 Points MULTIPLE SCENIC FEATURES: harbor, historic BACKGROUND: >4 miles village, islands. Camden Hills State Park Boothbay

29 POINTS OF INTEREST LINES AREAS

Ducktrap Harbor Bridge, Lincolnville Popham Beach State Park, Phippsburg Rockport Harbor

Grindel Point Lighthouse, Islesboro Rocky shoreline, The Reach, Vinalhaven Historic Main Street, Rockland

Curtis Island, Camden Harbor Seawall, Rackliff Island, St. George Jordan Pond and The Bubbles, Acadia NP

30 5. Views to water Duration of View The length of time an observer will be able to see the water is inﬂuenced by many fac- The presence of waterbodies, especially when tors: travel speed, road condition and combined with signiﬁcant landforms, can be a alignment, adjacent development, roadside powerful predictor of scenic preference. vegetation, and pull-offs. Scenic areas often include the opportunity to see a long distance into the water from public viewpoints on the land from elevated vantage points. Large waterbodies have higher value than smaller ones because more people see them. Short view (<.2 mile). Orrs Island, Harpswell

Evaluation The work in this final section of the office • Use GoogleEarth and/or Maps.live.com evaluation looks at three parameters: the to verify that the viewpoints are still duration of the view; the type of waterbody open. that is seen; and the quality of the horizon. The initial evaluation is based upon an as- View Inventory: Intermittent views toward Islesboro Harbor • Show the potential viewpoint(s) on the sessment of road-side openings as deter- map with a heavy line and view arrows, mined from USGS topographic maps and to be verified and adjusted during the internet resources. Final verification of the • From the mapping of Open Land, de- field evaluation. quality and complexity of the views will termine where it may be possible to view take place during the field evaluation. scenic resources (primarily water and mountains) from public viewpoints. While these will be primarily public roads, also look for views from public parks, trails, and other areas that the public has access to. Measure the length of the view and record it on the map.

• Note locations where the observer is in a ‘superior’ position (i.e., looking down on the landscape from a relatively high vantage point, such as the crest of a hill or an overlook). An elevated but relatively short view may be just as signiﬁcant as a Layered view to water, Penobscot Bay longer view closer to the water. Lengthy view, Shore Path, Bar Harbor

31 Type of Water Note the type of water that is in the view: small ponds, tidal marshes, coves, lakes, Atlantic Ocean. Generally the more variety there is in the view toward the water, the greater the scenic quality.

• Determine if the waterbody is seen as an isolated feature in the landscape, or if it is part of a more complex series of waterbodies (e.g., a bay with an associated salt marsh or tidal cove).

Small mill pond and Belfast Bay, Belfast Large water body (Atlantic Ocean), Acadia NP

Small tidal channel, Brunswick Complex view of small coves, islands, and Penobscot Bay

32 Quality of the Horizon The view out to the water can be open, with no intervening land masses, or it can be enclosed or partially enclosed. Likewise, the scene can be framed by or include land masses with considerable vertical relief that contrast with horizontal plane of the water. In general, the areas that have views with both open and closed horizons and substantial hills or mountains will have the Closed horizon with little vertical interest. East Boothbay looking toward South Bristol greatest scenic value.

• Note the location(s) where the best views of the water and interesting land masses SCORING are likely to occur. Evaluate the poten- Duration of View tial quality of the horizon with the USGS Less than 2/10 mile 3 Points topographic map, looking for land 2/10 to 1/2 mile or numerous masses that may partially block the view short views 6 Points as well as signiﬁcant topographic fea- Greater than 1/2 mile or short tures that will add interest to the view. but elevated views 9 Points • ‘Fly’ over the location in GoogleEarth to Type of Water verify the quality of the view. Keep in Small water body mind that the computerized view will (< 1/4 mile closure) 6 Points not show the three-dimensional aspect of Closed horizon with vertical interest Large water body 9 Points trees or buildings that could screen the Robbinston Large water body with view. marsh, pond, cove 12 Points

Quality of Horizon Open/closed horizon with little vertical interest 3 Points Comb. of open and closed horizon with little vertical interest or closed horizon with vertical interest 6 Points Combination of open/closed horizon w/vertical interest 9 Points Open and closed horizon with vertical interest. Popham Beach State Park, Phippsburg

33 6. Field Evaluation

Once the office evaluation is complete, the If the area to be inventoried is relatively Since the presence of water bodies is a next step is to get out and explore the land- large and local citizens are involved, differ- strong indicator of scenic quality, the scape. While the office evaluation resulted ent sections of the study area can be as- absence of tidal water (and the presence in quantifiable data, the field evaluation signed to multiple teams. This is especially of mudflats) may influence how the area relies on more qualified observations. true if the inventory process attracts a large is evaluated. Ideally, the team should There are several objectives to this critical number of enthusiastic volunteers. visit these areas at various points in the step in the evaluation process: tidal cycle and record observations at Preparation high, mid, and low tide. • Field-verify and fine-tune the results of the office evaluation. Allow at least a day for preparation: gather- • Compile a binder for data gathering dur- • Experience the three-dimensional aspect ing maps from the office evaluation, down- ing the fieldwork. This should include of scenic areas and determine their loading images from GoogleEarth, setting a) an index map showing the entire physical boundaries. the route, preparing cameras, looking at study area for navigational purposes and • Note current land use activities and de- tide tables, understanding the sun angle at context, b) a USGS or other map show- velopment pressures. various times of the day, etc. ing the location of the scenic indicators • Record (with narrative and photographs) and potential boundary of the scenic ar- the physical characteristics that define While it may be tempting to make a com- eas, and c) the Scenic Inventory Evalua- the scenic areas. plete day of it, fieldwork can be very taxing tion Form (Appendix F). Maps used for • Locate public viewpoints that provide an on the eyes and the brain. After a certain fieldwork can be in draft form, since the opportunity to see the scenic area. length of time, some observers may experi- data may change (e.g., location and ex- • Identify options for potential manage- ence visual overload that could diminish tent of views, boundaries of scenic areas) ment strategies to maintain the inherent the group’s objectivity. There are a number once the site is visited. scenic quality of the areas. of things that should be done to prepare for the field work: Participants • Consider how the sun will affect obser- Field evaluation teams should have at least vations over the course of the day and two members: a driver/photographer and plan the itinerary accordingly. Try to a recorder/navigator. Ideally there should visit east-facing areas in the morning, be a third person to share in the responsibil- west-facing areas in the afternoon. ity – and the pleasure – of the fieldwork. • Look at local tide tables before heading out to areas that include coastal waters.

34 • Prepare the camera for an intense day of • While views from the main roads are points to be awarded in each of the cate- shooting. Digital cameras are ideal for very important, do not overlook the gories. Be methodical in the approach, fieldwork, since the images can be used smaller public roads, public lands applying the criteria evenly to each sce- in a multitude of ways. Bring along a (parks, conservation land open to the nic area. If there are serious disagree- backup camera, extra storage devices, public, school grounds, and hiking trails) ments among team members, use an av- and extra batteries. Charge camera bat- and other opportunities in public areas. erage score that all feel comfortable with. teries the night before and make sure Prior to setting out, prepare a context Ideally, a second field team would also there is adequate storage capacity. See map that locates all the potential view- visit each area as a check. Site Photography, Appendix D for fur- points and roads to be covered during ther guidance on site photography. the fieldwork. • Keep an accurate record of all photographs, GPS points, time of day, and • Avoid trespassing onto private property. other information. Stick to publicly accessible locations such as municipal roads, parks, and public • In addition to looking for scenic indica- waterfronts. The only exception should tors and understanding their value, the be private lands with public access fieldwork should determine the bounda- easements. ries of the scenic area. As noted earlier, scenic areas should be thought of as • A GPS (Global Positioning System) unit large outdoor ‘rooms’, defined by topog- can be very helpful in fieldwork, navi- raphy, vegetation, and structures. The Pemaquid Point Light, Bristol gating throughout the day, and record- office evaluation will make a preliminary ing the location of photographs and determination of the boundaries of this Field Observations other data. If GPS is used, at least one space, but the fieldwork will be neces- member of the team should understand sary to check its accuracy. • Once the team is at the designated area, its function and operation BEFORE set- allow adequate time to drive it from all ting out. Prior to embarking, establish a • Some scenic areas may require visits at directions to verify the office data (e.g., protocol for naming/numbering way- special times during the day or year to landforms, open land, shoreline configu- points and photographs. Plan a dry run record their transitory nature. These ration, and water views) and get a gen- well in advance to work out any bugs. may include places such as sheltered eral sense of its physical boundaries. harbors when lobster boats are coming Verify that the scenic features are still • Once the team feels that it has a good or going, old orchards that are fre- present and how they influence the sense of the area’s features and has re- quented by deer or wild turkeys, or wa- character of the scene. Spend at least 20- viewed the preliminary findings of the terfalls that are only full in springtime. 30 minutes evaluating an area, and up- office evaluation, go over the three sets wards of an hour or more if the site is of field variables: landscape character, • Take at least one break to allow the team particularly large or complex. vegetation, and landscape composition. to replenish their energy and discuss the Discuss personal observations and try to experience thus far. Try to limit the come to a consensus for the number of fieldwork to 4-5 hours maximum.

35 6. Landscape character Evaluation Determine if the landscape is characterized Evaluate the effect of land use, roadside by the following: characteristics, and settlement patterns on the character of the landscape. The examples given for each category are not meant A. Positive Land Use to be exhaustive; there will undoubtedly be • Agricultural fields / farmsteads additional elements, both positive and • Moorings / harbors negative, that will influence the perception • Beaches of the landscape. • Villages /Vernacular architecture • Old cemeteries Record both positive and negative influ- • Village skyline in midground Small harbor, Indian Creek, Vinalhaven ences. Award the number of points that the • Mature forestland group decides after considered discussion. Deduct points if there are serious discordant elements present.

Sand beach, Sears Island, Searsport Aldermere Farm, Rockport

Prominent steeple, Route 1, Stockton Springs Old cemetery, Route One, Stockton Springs

36 Discordant Land Use B. Positive Roadside • Clearcuts / extensive slash Characteristics • Exposed mining operations • Tree canopy • Utility corridors • Mature trees lining the road • Incompatible comm./industrial uses • Road conforming to contours • Gentle horizontal curves • Streets scaled to the pedestrian • Urban plantings

Sargent Drive on Somes Sound, Mt. Desert

Transmission corridor, Wiscasset

Historic Fort Knox with paper mill on Penobscot River, Prospect and Bucksport Aldermere Farm, Rockport

SCORING

Effects of land use on scenic quality No Effect 0 Points Minimally Positive 3 Points Positive 5 Points Strongly Positive 7 Points Street trees, Bar Harbor Old causeway road to Rackliff Is., St. George

37 Discordant Roadside C. Positive Settlement Features Characteristics • Distinct village gateways • Excessive cuts or ﬁll • Prominent community buildings • Long straight stretches • Buildings w/ harmonious massing/ • Overhead utility lines height • Advertising signs/roadside clutter • Preserved vernacular architecture • Guardrails in disrepair • Historic districts • Signiﬁcant bridges • Parkland • Prominent statues, bandstands • Tree lined streets Portland waterfront • Stone walls

Long straight road, Westport Island

Restored historic district, Rockland Monhegan Island waterfront

Proliferation of signs and overhead wires, Rt. 1

SCORING

Effects of roadside characteristics on scenic quality No Effect 0 Points Minimally Positive 1 Points Positive 3 Points Strongly Positive 6 Points Library proﬁled against Mt. Battie, Camden Gateway into Wiscasset, Sheepscot River

38 Discordant Settlement Characteristics • Strip development • Dilapidated structures • Incompatible architecture • Obtrusive signage • Pollution • Structures blocking view corridors • Automobile-related intrusions

Lane Island, Vinalhaven Strip development, Ellsworth

Lobstermen’s memorial, Bailey Is., Harpswell Motel on the water Chicken house partially blocking view

SCORING

Effects of settlement characteristics on scenic quality No Effect 0 Points Minimally Positive 3 Points Positive 6 Points Strongly Positive 9 Points

Stone retaining wall, Rackliff Island, St. George Auto-oriented signage

39 7. Vegetation Positive effects • Park-like landscapes The trees, fields, and forests in the land- • Well-defined agricultural patterns scape can have a positive effect on scenic • Distinct edges between field and forest quality. Like waterbodies, vegetation • Mature woodlands changes throughout the year, adding an- • Stands of specimen trees other temporal factor to the scenic inven- • Orchards tory process. • Views framed by trees • Mixture of types of vegetation Evaluation Assess the quality of the vegetation and its Spruce-covered island, Penobscot Bay effect on scenic character. Determine if the vegetation exhibits any of the following characteristics:

Varied textures, tidal marsh, Cumberland

Park-like oak grove, Broad Cove, Yarmouth Framed view of Salt Bay, Nobleboro

40 Negative Effects • Obvious clear cuts, piles of slash • Overgrown ﬁelds • Blowdowns • Woodlands overrun by invasive species • Lack of shoreline buffers

Clearcut to water

Evergreen edge of scenic area, Islesboro

Framed View of Penobscot Bay, Islesboro Lack of shoreline buffer

SCORING

Effects of Vegetation on scenic quality No Effect 0 Points Minimally Positive 3 Points Positive 6 Points Strongly Positive 9 Points Orchard, Rte. 144, Westport Island Blowdown, construction site

41 8. Composition & Effect Mystery/Surprise: Does the composition of the landscape draw the eye in? Is there a This is perhaps the most subjective part of sense that there is a lot more to be seen the process, where the team evaluates the from typical vantage points? Does the team overall integrity and composition of the feel an urge to explore what happens area under consideration. Record notes on around a bend in the road or on the back both the positive and negative features that side of an island? Are there vistas or turns contribute to or detract from the scenic in the road which open up unexpectedly? quality of the area. Compile a photo- Will the landscape be markedly different in graphic record of the area from various other seasons or tidal conditions? A sense of public vantage points (See Site Photogra- mystery is created in these Penobscot Bay is- phy in Appendix D). lands by the interplay of shadow and light and High Diversity: Is there a great deal of va- the layered landscape. riety in the color, forms, textures, and lines Assess the vulnerability of the scenic area that compose the landscape? Does the to change (development, loss of view corri- landscape still maintain a sense of order dors, roadway ‘improvements’, etc.). Dis- and unity within this diversity? Camden cuss options for land management for the Harbor exhibits a high degree of diversity in its scenic area which can be incorporated into varied colors, forms, lines and textures. This the final report. scenic area is noted for its contrasts: intensively developed waterfront in a largely natural set- Finally, in driving and walking the scenic ting; horizontal plane of the water against the area, note its physical boundaries. These rolling backdrop of the Camden Hills; exem- can be ridge lines, vegetation, curves in the plary parks and open spaces in dense suburban road, or other features which help define setting. the area as a large outdoor ‘room’. Note the boundaries on the field map for further study back in the office. Naturalness: Does the area seem to be relatively untouched by man-made features? Evaluation How well do the cultural elements that are Evaluate the composition and effect of the present fit into the landscape? While landscape by studying the whole scene and Popham Beach is one of Maine’s most heavily discussing the following characteristics: used beaches, it still retains a sense of naturalness by using the extensive dune system to separate the beach from visitor facilities and parking. The few visible cultural elements are understated, well weathered, and appropriate for the beach.

42 Harpswell is one of Maine’s icons, a testimony Cohesiveness: Are the visible elements in to Yankee ingenuity, and a true marriage of the landscape related to each other in terms form and function. of scale, form, color, and pattern? Does any one element dominate, to the detriment of the scene? Carvers Harbor in Vinalhaven is a classic working waterfront, comprised of a varied mixture of commercial and residential structures. The focus is on the waterfront; no one cultural element stands out or dominates the scene.

Spectacular Imagery: Are the forms, patterns, and elements that compose the landscape memorable? Are there places or landmarks present which are considered icons for the region? This small footbridge in Somesville has been captured by countless art- Pastoral Qualities: In agricultural settings, ists and photographers drawn by its simple yet is the scene simple, serene, and relatively dramatic form and wooded setting. free of extraneous cultural inﬂuences (such as highways, transmission lines, or commercial development)? Aldermere Farm, owned and managed by Maine Coast Heritage Trust in Rockport, is known throughout midcoast Maine for its pastoral setting and Belted Permanence: Does the landscape feel time- Galloway cattle. less, solid, and unchanging? The granite outcrops that deﬁne much of Penobscot Bay have a solid, ageless quality.

SCORING

Landscape composition Historic Integrity: If there are historic ele- Minimally Positive 3 Points ments present (e.g., structures, stone walls, Positive 6 Points or cemeteries) are they well preserved and Strongly Positive 9 Points relatively intact? The Cribstone Bridge in

43 7. Ranking and Significance

Introduction guide the process of making a distinction Development Act (PL 2007 c.661). This leg- between resources of local, state or national islation recognizes the inherent value in Inventories of scenic resources are done for significance. scenic resources of statewide or national a variety of reasons and uses, including: significance and focuses attention on the In approving DEP’s Scenic Impact Rules public value that the state places on the • Comprehensive planning at the munici- under the Natural Resources Protection Act continued use and enjoyment of these re- pal level. (Chapter 315 Assessing and Mitigating Im- sources. • Strategic regional and statewide land pacts to Existing Scenic and Aesthetic Uses) conservation efforts (e.g., local land the Legislature endorsed the policy that a See Appendix A for the full text of the Wind trusts, Land for Maine’s Future pro- scenic resource visited by large numbers Power Law’s definition of scenic resources gram). who come from across the country or state of state or national significance contained in • Alignment studies for highways and with the purpose of enjoying their visual qual- 35-A MRSA § 3451. utility corridors. ity is generally considered to have national • Internal Revenue Service requirements or statewide significance. A scenic resource As noted earlier, there have been a number for conservation easements. visited primarily by people of local origin is of inventories of Maine landscapes that • Siting studies for wind energy facilities generally of local significance. (Chapter identified significant visual resources using in accordance with the Wind Power law. 315, 2003) (emphasis added). established methodologies. See the publication list in Appendix H, References. The outcome of the inventories help More recently, the Governor’s Task Force decision-makers at many levels in deter- on Wind Power Development laid the Ranking: Local, Regional, or mining which lands to protect, how to pri- groundwork for the Maine Wind Power Statewide / National Significance oritize scarce resources, whether to take action when a property comes on the mar- The State Planning Office’s methodology ket, whether to grant a tax abatement, or provides an objective way to evaluate and where to best locate infrastructure to avoid score scenic areas, and then rank them in a visual impact. geo-regional setting. Taking the next step to use the inventory for a specific purpose Definitions of Significance may require further evaluation and analysis to establish levels of significance (e.g., local, In at least two instances the Maine Legisla- regional, statewide, or national) to assist in ture has recognized the importance of a the prioritization process. ranking system to determine the relative scenic significance of certain areas. Both Adding the points from both the office and pieces of legislation have definitions to Schoodic Point, Acadia National Park field evaluations will produce a numeric

44 score (with a maximum of 100 points) to be 3457, a scenic area that achieves a score of 70 used in determining scenic significance or more shall be considered of state or na- within a designated region. tional significance for the purpose of identifying scenic viewpoints within coastal ar- Local Significance. Areas that score in the eas that are ranked as having statewide or 30’s and 40’s are generally of local (i.e., nationally significant scenic qualities as town-wide) significance. While theses areas defined by Title 35-A MRS § 3451(9)(H). may help define the community’s charac- Chapter 8 discusses how scenic viewpoints teristic landscape, they are unlikely to at- are identified and evaluated as part of the tract visitors from outside the immediate inventory process. locale for their scenic value alone. Scenic area of local significance Additional Criteria and Regional Significance. Areas that achieve Considerations scores in the 50’s and 60’s may be considered of regional (i.e., greater than local) Two additional criteria can be useful in value, but usually are not considered of some instances to make a determination of state-wide significance for their scenic the relative importance of scenic areas: 1) character alone. Individual sites with Visual Accessibility and Use, and 2) Public scores in the upper range may warrant fur- Recognition. ther consideration. Visual Accessibility and Use Statewide or National Significance. Places that achieve scores of 70 or greater have The first test determines how visually ac- scenery that may be considered of state- cessible the area is and its relative use by Scenic area of regional significance wide or national significance. These tend to the general public. A rating of high, me- be areas with exemplary combinations of dium, or low is assigned, based upon the landform, water bodies, vegetation, and criteria discussed below. By definition, all cultural characteristics. lands that are identified as scenic areas are either on public land, are open to the pub- In other instances, such as local compre- lic, or are visible from public viewpoints. hensive planning, the scores should be At the ‘high’ end of the spectrum are scenic considered as one factor in judging signifi- areas that are fully or mostly visible from cance. Additional criteria are discussed major public vantage points, e.g., on or ad- below. jacent to main highways; historic districts and village centers; major hiking trails with In the case of a scenic inventory prepared established, well-marked trailheads. Water by or for State Planning Office under rules bodies are easily accessed through boat adopted pursuant to Title 35-A MRSA § Scenic area of state or national significance

45 access. While these areas may have memo- ventories that follow a rigorous methodol- rable visual characteristics (i.e., highly sce- ogy to identify scenic areas. nic), they may not be considered of statewide or national significance since the gen- Official Recognition. This category in- eral public is usually unaware of them. cludes land that has been recognized at the Increased visitorship to these often-fragile state or national level for its scenic value: areas could very well have a negative effect State and National Parks, Appalachian Na- on the very qualities that local people find tional Scenic Trail (Appalachian Trail), so attractive. properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Scenic Byways (Maine and Scenic area with high visual access Public Recognition Federal), lands that have been recognized and protected by the Land for Maine’s Fu- launches, harbors, or marinas open to the The second test determines whether the ture Program for their scenic qualities. public. The public is typically present in public generally recognized the area for its relatively high numbers and enjoy good scenic qualities. Scenic areas that are gen- Arts and Literature. Maine’s remarkable visual, if not physical, access. erally recognized by the public have ‘high’ landscape has inspired artists, poets, writ- public recognition; those that are little ers, photographers, and other creative indi- Scenic areas that are considered ‘low’ for known or unknown outside the local com- viduals for the past two centuries. Winslow public accessibility and use may be located munity are considered ‘low’. There are Homer, Rockwell Kent, Henry David Tho- on unimproved roads or other passable many ways to determine the level of public reau, Andrew and Jamie Wyeth, Thomas roads (see Maine Atlas and Gazetteer), hiking recognition. There should be a preponder- Church, Eliot and Fairfield Porter, and trails that are very remote and/or receive ance of evidence that demonstrates that the countless others have created masterworks little use, water bodies that have no public public is well aware of the area and recognizes its scenic value.

Surveys. Visual preference surveys conducted at public meetings during the course of scenic inventories can be a reli- able way to identify the most signiﬁcant landscapes within a given region.

Comprehensive Plans. Many communities have conducted scenic inventories as part of their comprehensive planning process. The results may vary widely, from informal surveys of viewpoints conducted by a limited number of people familiar with the Scenic area with low visual access community to professionally assisted in-

46 Statewide or National Significance

Where an additional level of prioritization is deemed appropriate, scenic areas that have achieved a score of 70 or greater can be tested for Visual Accessibility & Use and Public Recognition, as noted above. Those areas that have both medium to high public recognition and medium to high visual accessibility and use may be considered scenic areas of statewide or national signiﬁ- cance. (See chart below.)

Penobscot Narrow Bridge, from Prospect overlook that celebrate signiﬁcant places in Maine. Publications. Most bookstores in Maine Contacts with local libraries, historic socie- carry a wide assortment of guidebooks and ties, museums, and other cultural institu- other publications that list places of recog- tions can provide information on inspira- nized scenic quality. The Maine Atlas and tional settings of recognized value. Gazetteer, for example, describes and locates parks, recreation areas, hiking trails, unique VISUAL ACCESSIBILITY & USE natural areas, scenic waterfalls, lighthouses, and historic forts throughout the state. High Med Low While many of these places are not neces- sarily known for their scenic qualities, the High lists provide a good starting point for collecting sites that are publicly recognized. The other caveat in using these types of Med publications is that not all the sites are on public lands or in locations where the public has ready access. Low

Olson House, Cushing RECOGNITION PUBLIC

47 8. Scenic Viewpoints

Scenic viewpoints – the places that allow Discordant Elements: The absence of the viewer to get a visual ‘snapshot’ of the power-lines, inharmonious commercial de- scenic area of state or national signiﬁcance velopment, clear-cuts, and other physical – are noted as part of the scenic inventory changes which affect the perception of the process. Scenic areas tend to be rather ex- place. tensive, ranging from several dozen acres to hundreds or even thousands of acres in Viewing Distance: The distance that the size. Viewpoints, on the other hand, are observer sees into the landscape, corre- usually discrete places, often less than an sponding to the concept of Foreground, acre in size, that allow the public to see Midground, and Background viewing dis- most or all of the scenic resources within tances. the scenic area. Bar Harbor overlook Distance to Water: The relative distance line conﬁguration, and cultural features, as that the observer is to the visible portion of discussed on p. 20. the waterbody in the landscape.

The methodology evaluates a number of Viewing Angle: The horizontal angle of characteristics of each viewpoint: the landscape visible from the viewpoint. The most memorable viewpoints are pano- Viewer Elevation Above Water: A meas- ramas from 180º to 360º. ure of the relative grade change between the observer and the waterfront below. Water Characteristics: The type and relative complexity of waterbodies visible from the viewpoint.

The chart on the following page is provided Visual Interest: The presence or absence of to help identify viewpoints of state or na- hills or mountains; the amount of shoreline tional signiﬁcance, for purposes of the conﬁguration; and the number of scenic Maine Wind Power Law. The chart is features visible from the viewpoints. based upon A Proposed Method for Coastal Scenic Landscape Assessment (Dominie 1987). The results of this evaluation are recorded The values should be adjusted to account and tabulated for each viewpoint. The for regional variations in landform, shore- Viewpoint Scoring chart on the following Penobscot Narrows Bridge Observatory page provides an initial determination of

48 page provides a determination of signiﬁ- points, See Chp. 7); and b) is deemed “dis- VIEWPOINT SCORING cance. tinctive” or “highly distinctive” shall be considered a scenic view point for purposes Common: 1-10 points A viewpoint in the coastal area that: a) is of Title 35-A MRS, Section 3451(9)(H)(2). Noteworthy: 11-21 points located within a scenic area of statewide or Distinctive: 22-35 points Highly Distinctive: >36 points national signiﬁcance (score of 70 or more Cadillac Mountain, ANP, at sunset

Common Noteworthy Distinctive: of Statewide Distinctive: Greater than significance statewide interest

Viewer Elevation 1 point 2 points 4 points 6 points above water 0 to 50 feet 50 to 200 feet 200 to 400 feet >400 feet

Discordant 1 point 2 points 4 points 6 points Elements Several within foreground Discordant elements visi- None within foreground None within foreground Others may be visible in ble but not dominant Those in midground or Those in midground or back- mid- and background background not dominant ground not dominant

Viewing 1 point 2 points 4 points 6 points Distance Views limited to fore- Up to 2 miles Up to 4 miles Greater than 4 miles ground (within 1/2 mile)

Distance to 1 point 2 points 4 points 6 points Water > 4 miles away 1/2 to 4 miles away Less than 1/2 mile away Less than 1/4 mile away

Viewing Angle 1 point 2 points 4 points 6 points Up to 45º 45º to 90º 90º to 120º More than 180º

Water 1 point 3 points 5 points 7 points Characteristics Small freshwater body, or Moderate waterbody of Large waterbody of fresh or Large waterbody, with asso- only wetlands fresh or salt water salt water ciated wetlands Little visual diversity Horizon open or closed Horizon open or closed Combination of open and No associated wetlands Associated wetland closed horizons

Visual Interest 1 point 3 points 5 points 7 points No landforms >200’ in Landforms >200’ in mid- Significant landforms Significant landforms (>400’) view ground or background (>400’) are visible, but dominant part of view) Shoreline linear or low Shoreline exhibits moder- not dominant Shoreline highly configured configuration ate configuration Shoreline moderate to highly At least 3 scenic features in One or no scenic features One scenic feature in configured midground visible midground Two scenic features within midground

Appendices

A. Legislative and Other Initiatives

B. Research C. Biophysical Regions of the Maine Coast

D. Site Photography E. Site Inventory Template

F. Site Evaluation Form G. Glossary of Terms

H. References

A. LEGISLATIVE AND Over the past two decades, more than 250 Maine communities have completed or up- OTHER INITIATIVES dated their comprehensive plans. From a scenic inventory standpoint, the results Since the mid-1990’s the State Planning Of- have been somewhat mixed. A few towns fice has not conducted further scenic inven- have gone to great lengths to inventory and tories. However, Maine’s scenic resources – map their scenic and cultural resources. on both land and the water – are encounter- However, on the other hand, many have ing ever-increasing pressure from residen- simply listed places that the comprehensive tial development, energy proposals (e.g., planning committee considered to be of LNG terminals, wind power facilities, tidal local significance. and wave energy projects), shoreline stabi- lization projects, aquaculture, and other The Comprehensive Planning and Land landscape-scale developments. Local gov- Use Regulation Act requires that each mu- ernments as well as state and federal agen- nicipality’s Comprehensive Plan must in- cies are struggling to keep up with the scale clude an inventory and analysis of Signifi- and scope of projects that have the potential cant or critical natural resources, such as wet- to create dramatic changes to the local and lands, wildlife and fisheries habitats, significant regional landscape. plant habitats, coastal islands, sand dunes, sce- Municipal Comprehensive nic areas, shorelands, heritage coastal and Based upon a review of the inventories that Planning unique natural areas. (Emphasis added.) have been completed to date, the basic MRSA Title 30-A, §4326.1.C. methodology developed by Dominie et al. The Growth Management Act was estab- is still very workable. However, there are lished by the Legislature in 1988 to “promote In response to concerns expressed at the opportunities to make improvements, espe- and protect the health, safety and welfare of the local level about the effectiveness of the cially as legislative bodies are making more citizens of the State.” In doing so, the Legis- comprehensive planning process, the State widespread use of the inventories and bet- lature found that it is in the best interests of Planning Office issued An Evaluation of the ter mapping and analysis tools are becom- the State to “protect the state's other critical Growth Management Act and Its Imple- ing available. natural resources, including without limitation, mentation in response to Resolve 2004, wetlands, wildlife and fisheries habitat, sand Chapter 73 Joint Standing Committee on A number of legislative initiatives and local dunes, shorelands, scenic vistas, and unique Natural Resources 122nd Legislature. One actions in the past two decades have been natural areas.” (Emphasis added.) MRSA of the key recommendations of this study is considered in updating the original meth- Title 30-A, §4312.3F. to “provide towns and regional agencies odology. These are described more fully with better tools, data, and assistance.” below.

A|51 This document should be seen as a positive “the State's rivers and streams, great ponds, management programs and establish sound response to the Chapter 73 resolve by pro- fragile mountain areas, freshwater wetlands, environmental standards that will prevent the viding current tools to municipalities to be significant wildlife habitat, coastal wetlands and degradation of and encourage the enhancement used in their comprehensive planning coastal sand dune systems are resources of state of these resources. It is the intention of the Leg- process. significance. These resources have great scenic islature that existing programs related to beauty and unique characteristics, unsurpassed Maine's rivers and streams, great ponds, fragile Natural Resources Protection Act recreational, cultural, historical, and environ- mountain areas, freshwater wetlands, signifi- mental value of present and future benefit to the cant wildlife habitat, coastal wetlands and sand When the Maine Legislature passed the citizens of the State. dunes systems continue and that the Depart- Natural Resources Protection Act (NRPA) ment of Environmental Protection provide co- in 1987 they found that: The Legislature further finds and declares that ordination and vigorous leadership to develop there is a need to facilitate research, develop programs to achieve the purposes of this article. The well-being of the citizens of this State requires the development and maintenance of an efficient system of administering this article to minimize delays and difficulties in evaluating alterations of these resource areas.

The Legislature further ﬁnds and declares that the cumulative effect of frequent minor alterations and occasional major alterations of these resources poses a substantial threat to the environment and economy of the State and its quality of life.” (Emphasis added.) MRSA Title 38. §480-A.

The Legislature’s recognition of the scenic beauty of these protected natural resources through statute underscores their appreciation of the inherent visual quality of our state and its value to the general population.

A|52 NRPA, Chapter 315

Chapter 315 of the NRPA, Assessing and Mitigating Impacts to Existing Scenic and Aesthetic Uses, provides the Maine De- partment of Environmental Protection (MaineDEP) with a set of rules to evaluate impacts to existing scenic and aesthetic uses from certain activities on, over, or adjacent to designated scenic resources. Scenic Resources are deﬁned as Public natural resources or public lands visited by the general public, in part for the use, observation, enjoyment, and appreciation of natural or cultural visual qualities. The statute provides the following list of scenic resources that includes, but is not limited to, locations of national, State, or local scenic signiﬁcance.

A. National Natural Landmarks and other outstanding natural and cultural features pursuant to the National Historic Preser- try or state is generally considered to have (e.g., Orono Bog, Meddybemps Heath); vation Act of 1966, as amended (e.g., the national or statewide significance. A scenic Rockland Breakwater Light, Fort Knox); resource visited primarily by people of lo- B. State or National Wildlife Refuges, Sanc- cal origin is generally of local significance. tuaries, or Preserves and State Game Ref- E. National or State Parks (e.g., Acadia Na- Unvisited places either have no designated uges (e.g., Rachael Carson Salt Pond Pre- tional Park, Sebago Lakes State Park); significance or are “no trespass” places. serve in Bristol, Petit Manan National Wildlife Refuge, the Wells National Estu- F. Public natural resources or public lands As communities complete their own scenic arine Research Reserve); visited by the general public, in part for the inventories, Chapter 315 could provide use, observation, enjoyment and apprecia- them with a workable tool to evaluate pos- C. A State or federally designated trail (e.g., tion of natural or cultural visual sible visual impacts from development ac- the Appalachian Trail, East Coast Green- qualities.(e.g., great ponds, the Atlantic tivities. Since the Scenic Rules went into way); Ocean). effect in 2003, they have been used to evaluate transmission lines, docks, energy D. A property on or eligible for inclusion in Scenic resources visited by large numbers facilities, and other development proposals the National Register of Historic Places of people who come from across the coun- adjacent to scenic resources.

A|53 MHPC has prepared a Guidelines for Mu- nicipalities that outlines four basic steps that municipalities may choose to follow in implementing this law. The second step, Adopt Implementing Ordinance, provides municipalities with criteria, based upon their comprehensive plan, for designating historic structures and scenic views and for maintaining the historic integrity of important structures or providing a scenic view. The Guidelines recognizes the State Plan- ning Ofﬁce as the agency to go to for guidance in identifying areas with scenic value and anticipates that communities will have a process to designate such areas.

Scenic View - A property is qualiﬁed for inclusion under this section if, at the time the municipality reimburses the owner for a portion of taxes, one of the following apply:

• It is an area identiﬁed by the State Planning Ofﬁce as having scenic value.

• It is a locally designated view or view corri- Local Option Property Tax agrees to maintain the property in accordance dor from a public place. Reimbursement with criteria that are adopted by ordinance by the governing legislative body of the municipal- • It is a locally designated natural or cultural In November 1999, Maine voters approved ity and that provide for maintaining the historic feature in an identiﬁed view corridor (i.e., enabling legislation (Sec. 1. 30-A MRSA integrity of important structures or providing a churches, lighthouses, ﬁelds, mountains, 5730) authorizing local option property tax scenic view. The Maine Historic Preservation islands, etc.). reimbursements for historic and scenic Commission (MHPC) shall provide guidance, if • It is a locally designated part of a municipal- preservation. This law allows a municipal- requested by a municipality, in implementing ity that contributes to the character of the ity to ”reimburse taxpayers for a portion of this section.” MRSA Title 30-A. §5730. town (i.e., village square, historic sites, etc.). taxes paid on real property if the property owner

A|54 The Guidelines offers the following deﬁni- Wind Power Law B. A property listed on the National Regis- tion of Scenic View: Scenic resources of a ter of Historic Places pursuant to the Na- community are the attributes that give it iden- The Governor’s Task Force on Wind Power tional Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as tity and make it an appealing place to live. Development was charged with developing amended, including, but not limited to, the They may be speciﬁc, extraordinary views, or an approach to the siting and development Rockland Breakwater Light and Fort Knox; they may be vistas of segments of the commu- of wind energy facilities that responded to nity. our growing energy needs while not com- C. A national or state park; promising the resources that make Maine the special place that it is. D. A great pond that is:

The Task Force recommended an approach (1) One of the 66 great ponds located in the that would reward well-sited projects with State's organized area identified as having an expedited review. This approach would outstanding or significant scenic quality in require a visual impact assessment (de- the "Maine's Finest Lakes" study published signed specifically for wind energy pro- by the Executive Department, State Plan- jects) when turbines would be visible from ning Office in October 1989; or scenic resources of state or national significance. The Task Force recommendations (2) One of the 280 great ponds in the State's were adopted by the Legislature and be- unorganized or deorganized areas desig- came the basis for 35-A MRSA Chapter 34- nated as outstanding or significant from a A: An Act to Implement Recommendations of scenic perspective in the "Maine Wildlands the Governor’s Task Force on Wind Power De- Lakes Assessment" published by the Maine velopment. Land Use Regulation Commission in June 1987; The Act defines "Scenic resource of state or national significance" as an area or place E. A segment of a scenic river or stream owned by the public or to which the public identified as having unique or outstanding has a legal right of access that is: scenic attributes listed in Appendix G of the "Maine Rivers Study" published by the De- A. A national natural landmark, federally partment of Conservation in 1982; designated wilderness area or other comparable outstanding natural and cultural fea- F. A scenic viewpoint located on state pub- ture, such as the Orono Bog or Meddy- lic reserved land or on a trail that is used bemps Heath; exclusively for pedestrian use, such as the Appalachian Trail, that the Department of

A|55 Conservation designates by rule adopted in The donation of a qualified real property accordance with section 3457 interest to preserve open space (including farmland and forest land) will meet the G. A scenic turnout constructed by the De- conservation purposes test if such preserva- partment of Transportation pursuant to tion is: Title 23, section 954 on a public road that has been designated by the Commissioner (A) Pursuant to a clearly delineated Fed- of Transportation pursuant to Title 23, sec- eral, state, or local governmental con- tion 4206, subsection 1, paragraph G as a servation policy and will yield a sig- scenic highway; or nificant public benefit, or

H. Scenic viewpoints located in the coastal (B) For the scenic enjoyment of the general area, as defined by Title 38, section 1802, public and will yield a significant pub- subsection 1, that are ranked as having lic benefit. state or national significance in terms of scenic quality in: Scenic Enjoyment. Preservation of land may be for the scenic enjoyment of the gen- (1) One of the scenic inventories prepared eral public if development of the property for and published by the Executive De- would impair the scenic character of the partment, State Planning Office: "Method local rural or urban landscape or would for Coastal Scenic Landscape Assessment interfere with a scenic panorama that can with Field Results for Kittery to Scarbor- be enjoyed from a park, nature preserve, ough and Cape Elizabeth to South Thomas- Internal Revenue Service road, waterbody, trail, or historic structure ton," Dominie, et al., October 1987; "Scenic Tax Code: Section 170(h) or land area, and such area or transporta- Inventory Mainland Sites of Penobscot tion way is open to, or utilized by, the pub- Bay," Dewan and Associates, et al., August The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in Sec- lic. ``Scenic enjoyment'' will be evaluated 1990; or "Scenic Inventory: Islesboro, Vinal- tion 170(h) of the tax code allows landown- by considering all pertinent facts and cir- haven, North Haven and Associated ers to take a tax deduction when they sell cumstances germane to the contribution. Offshore Islands," Dewan and Associates, their land for less than market value or do- Among the factors to be considered are: June 1992; or nate a perpetual conservation easement on it, "exclusively for conservation purposes." (1) The compatibility of the land use with (2) A scenic inventory developed by or pre- In developing the qualification and restric- other land in the vicinity; pared for the Executive Department, State tions for easements, the IRS recognized the Planning Office in accordance with section importance of scenic inventories. The fol- (2) The degree of contrast and variety pro- 3457. lowing section is taken from the IRS Code vided by the visual scene; (emphasis added).

A|56 (3) The openness of the land (which would Significant Public Benefit. All contribu- (5) The likelihood that development of the be a more significant factor in an urban tions made for the preservation of open property would lead to or contribute to or densely populated setting or in a space must yield a significant public bene- degradation of the scenic, natural, or heavily wooded area); fit. Among the factors to be considered are: historic character of the area;

(4) Relief from urban closeness; (1) The uniqueness of the property to the (6) The opportunity for the general public area; to use the property or to appreciate its (5) The harmonious variety of shapes and scenic values; textures; (2) The intensity of land development in the vicinity of the property (both exist- (7) The importance of the property in pre- (6) The degree to which the land use main- ing development and foreseeable serving a local or regional landscape or tains the scale and character of the ur- trends of development); resource that attracts tourism or com- ban landscape to preserve open space, merce to the area; visual enjoyment, and sunlight for the (3) The consistency of the proposed open surrounding area; space use with public programs (whether Federal, state or local) for (7) The consistency of the proposed scenic view conservation in the region, including with a methodical state scenic identification programs for outdoor recreation, irri- program, such as a state landscape inven- gation or water supply protection, wa- tory; and ter quality maintenance or enhancement, flood prevention and control, (8) The consistency of the proposed scenic view erosion control, shoreline protection, with a regional or local landscape inven- and protection of land areas included tory made pursuant to a sufficiently rigor- in, or related to, a government ap- ous review process, especially if the do- proved master plan or land manage- nation is endorsed by an appropriate ment area; state or local governmental agency. (4) The consistency of the proposed open Visual (rather than physical) access to or space use with existing private conser- across the property by the general public is vation programs in the area, as evi- required, although the entire property need denced by other land, protected by not be visible to the public for a donation to easement or fee ownership by organi- qualify. However, the public benefit from zations referred to in Section the donation may be insufficient to qualify 1.170A-14(c)(1), in close proximity to for a deduction if only a small portion of the property; the property is visible to the public.

A|57 (8) The likelihood that the donee will ac- Critical Areas Program Maine Coast Protection Initiative quire equally desirable and valuable substitute property or property rights; The CAP was a voluntary program in the The Maine Coastal Program of the State 1970’s and 1980’s whereby a landowner Planning Office received a grant from the (9) The cost to the donee of enforcing the could register property with the State if it Maine Coast Protection Initiative to review terms of the conservation restriction; contained features of botanical, zoological, and update the methodology that had been or geological interest. The scenic inventory developed in the late 1980’s/early 1990’s to (10) The population density in the area of process was initiated to include areas of identify, inventory, evaluate, and prioritize the property; and scenic significance in the program. How- scenic resources along the Maine Coast. The ever, the Critical Areas Program no longer updated methodology forms the basis for (11) The consistency of the proposed open exists. Many of its functions and data col- this handbook, which is designed to pro- space use with a legislatively man- lections were taken over by the Maine vide guidance for future scenic inventories dated program identifying particular Natural Areas Program. in Maine. parcels of land for future protection. The Critical Areas Program published the A significant outcome of this work is an results of these studies through their Plan- analytical approach to prioritizing scenic ning Reports series. Photographic records resources for land conservation purposes. were archived by the State Planning Office. This project is seen as an important compo-

A|58 nent in a larger effort to support land con- (e.g., cellular communications towers) to • Conservation subdivision ordinances servation efforts along the Maine Coast. demonstrate how development propos- are becoming more common as towns als could affect the visible landscape. are looking for ways to protect their sce- Maine Land Trust Network nic and other natural resources. • Design standards. Many communities Maine has one of the strongest Land Trust have enacted design standards for new • Photosimulations and other visualiza- movements in the country. In 1995, Maine development that recognize the unique- tion techniques are being routinely re- Coast Heritage Trust established the Maine ness of their particular setting. See Pri- quested by Planning Boards to demon- Land Trust Network (MLTN) to provide oritizing Local Scenic Resources - Commu- strate how development proposals are communications and coordination to the nity Based Performance Standards, avail- being designed to address visual quality State’s land trusts. The Network is a source able at the SPO website: concerns and potential loss of commu- of technical information on land conserva- www.maine.gov/spo/landuse/docs/pu nity character. tion techniques, providing knowledge of blications.htm the latest standards and practices among land trust managers and conservation professionals. It is anticipated that land trusts throughout Maine will use this document as they set conservation priorities for future decades.

Local Initiatives

Over the past two decades Maine citizens have shown an increasing awareness and appreciation of visual quality. Planning Boards, comprehensive planning committees, and individual citizens are recognizing the need to have accurate, defensible data to help make decisions that may affect the scenic resources of their communities.

• Visual Impact Assessments and Site Plan Review Ordinances. Some local Site Plan Review ordinances require visual impact assessments in certain cases

A|59 B. RESEARCH 2. Open Land. Open land is defined here complexity is a widely accepted determi- as existing or abandoned agricultural land nant of preference; configuration increases The field of visual assessment has matured or wetland. Open land was inventoried for complexity. Another aspect underlying considerably over the past several decades. the scenic assessment for a number of rea- shoreline configuration is that of enclosure. There has been a substantial amount of re- sons. Land use diversity, especially agricul- Those areas showing high configuration search into the way people perceive their tural and natural land uses, has been tend to give the perceiver a stronger feeling visual surroundings and what people per- shown to be an important predictor of sce- of being enclosed by the landscape. This ceive to be scenic in the American land- nic preference (Zube, 1973). Open space in landscape characteristic has been shown to scape. a landscape which is mostly forested, as in be related to scenic preference (Ward, 1977; Maine, adds visual variety, complexity, and Pearce & Waters, 1983; Gobster, 1986). Holly Dominie identified eight indicators of interest. In general, variety, complexity, or scenic quality, based upon extensive re- diversity are all accepted and frequently 4. Special Scenic Features. Special scenic search, that became part of the original used indicators in scenic assessments (Lit- features are natural or cultural features State Planning Office methodology (Do- ton, 1982; US Forest Service, 1974; Barrin- which, by their mere presence, have a posi- minie, 1987): ger, 1982), and have withstood the scrutiny tive influence on people's perception of of empirical testing (e.g. Kaplan, Kaplan & scenic quality. Examples include beaches, 1. Landform. Some aspect of landform is Wendt, 1972; Miller, 1984; McCarthy, 1979). lighthouses, harbors, and historic sites nearly always a major factor in expert- Open areas in the Maine coastal landscape (Pemaquid, 1986; Sterling, 1935), historic based scenic assessments. Past measures also take on special significance in that they forts (Maine Atlas, 1985), working harbors have included landform variety (USDA frequently provide visual access to the wa- (Acheson, 1978; DOT 1978 & 1986, Merril, Forest Service, 1974), landform type (Lin- ter. 1986 pers. comm.), historic wrecked schoo- ton, 1968), steep topography (Lewis, 1963), ners (Maine Atlas, 1985); Maine Geological and others. These studies have assumed 3. Shoreline Configuration. Configuration that as relief or slope increases, the scenic refers to the amount of irregularity in the value of a place will also increase. This as- shoreline. Shorelines with coves, points, sumption has generally been validated in islands, promontories, bays, peninsulas, public preference tests. Zube et al. (1974) and other features are considered more found that along with land-use diversity configured than those with straight, un- and naturalism, relative relief was an im- complicated shorelines. Shoreline land- portant predictor of scenic preference. This scape assessments nearly always include finding has also been supported in research some measure of shoreline configuration as by Miller (1984), Pitt (1976), Pearce & Wal- an indicator of scenic value (Harper et al. ters (1983), and others. 1978; Mann, 1975). There is little direct support for this measure in the research, but there is considerable evidence of a broader nature. As mentioned previously,

A|60 Survey, 1986). Expert-based scenic shore- ton et al. 1971). Some researchers have contribute to scenic quality. Pastoral, sym- land assessment often includes cultural and shown that view quality can depend on bolic features, and traditional uses, are natural features of this type in their check- specific characteristics of the view in rela- positive components while landscape scars lists criteria (Harper et al. 1978; Lewis, tion to the observer. Litton (1972) suggests and obtrusive structures are detractors, for 1963). There is evidence that cultural fea- that two of these characteristics include the instance. Land use compatibility, the de- tures hold symbolic meaning for society position of the observer in relation to the gree to which development is visually uni- and influence public perceptions of the vis- focus of a view, and the distance one can fied with its setting, also has a positive in- ual quality of an area (Anderson, 1981). see in a view. "Superior" views, views in fluence on perceptions (Nassauer, 1978). There is also considerable evidence that which the observer is looking down upon Overall condition is a measure of how well shows beaches are a highly preferred type the landscape, and views that one can see the landscape is cared for. of shoreland scenery. In Zube & McLaugh- for a long distance, often have higher scenic lin's Virgin Island Study (1978) sand value that those that are blocked or par- 7. Vegetation. Visually interesting or func- beaches ranked highest over 15 coastal tially enclosed. Federal land management tional vegetation is frequently included in types. Studies by Palmer (1978) in Massa- agencies have developed methods for vis- visual assessments. The presence of vege- chusetts and Banerjee and Bollub (1976) in ual resource evaluation rating to how long tation used for screening and softening the California agree. a view lasts and the size of the resource built environment has been documented as seen. They contend that lands which more a positive influence on perceptions (Palmer, 5. Views of Water from Major Roads. The people see for long periods of time and 1978). Other research has shown that forest presence of water can be a powerful predic- during periods of recreational activity are and field edges, agricultural patterns, and tor of scenic preference (Kaplan, 1977; Lit- more aesthetically important that those manicured landscapes are also positive which few people see or are seen for only predictors of scenic quality (Zube, Pitt, and short periods of time. Lands with the high- Anderson, 1974). est sensitivity include areas seen from major roads for long duration. By this same 8. Landscape Composition and Effect. rationale, large water bodies have higher The overall effect of the landscape is impor- value than smaller ones because more peo- tant as well. The better the coherence and ple see them (USDA Forest Service, 1974). ease with which a landscape and its parts are understood (Kaplan R., 1975), the 6. Land Use. Land uses encompass the higher the mystery (Kaplan, R., 1975) and changes people make to the landscape. land use diversity (Zube, 1973), and the Perception studies conducted under the greater the degree of naturalism (Zube, auspices of the USDA Soil Conservation 1973; Kaplan et al. 1972), the more scenic an Service for towns in Massachusetts (Do- area is likely to be perceived. Roads that minie, 1976; Palmer, 1978; and USDA SCS, change elevation are also considered more 1978) identify many cultural modifications scenic (Palmer, 1978). of the environment that either detract or

A|61 C. BIOPHYSICAL Surficial Geology and Soils

REGIONS OF THE Along the immediate coast, soils are gener- MAINE COAST ally deep sands (where beaches occur) or shallow sandy loams that are well to exces- The following is taken from McMahon, J.S. sively drained. Coarse loams, very shallow The biophysical regions of Maine: Patterns in Abram soils occur on hill tops; coarse, the landscape and vegetation. M.S. Thesis. somewhat excessively drained, shallow University of Maine, Orono, Maine. 1990. Lyman soils occur on midslopes; and See the Eco-Regions map of Maine on page deeper (20”-40”), well-drained Tunbridge 3 for a location of each of the four regions. soils can be found on lower slopes. Inland, deeper sandy soils derived from glacioflu- SOUTH COASTAL REGION vial material are typical. The most exten- rock that has been intruded by three large sive coarse-grained glaciomarine deposits plutons composed of granite or syenite. Physiography in the state occur in the central portion of the South Coastal Region and along its Climate The South Coastal Region parallels the Gulf western margin. Deep, excessively drained of Maine in a 20 mile wide band that ex- sandy-gravelly Colton soils and sandy The climate of the South Coastal Region is tends from Kittery to Cape Elizabeth. The Adam soils are common in this area, espe- the mildest in Maine. The number of heat- physiography of this region is markedly cially in the vicinity of the Kennebunk ing days (3900) is greater, the frost-free pe- different from points east. The Atlantic Plains, a glaciomarine delta. Poorly riod (160-170 days) is longer, and mean coastal plain, which is broad and clearly drained Naumburg soils and scattered or- maximum July temperature, 83º F, is wamer defined in states to the south, reaches its ganic deposits have developed in the re- than elsewhere in the state. Winters are eastern extent near Portland. As a result, gion’s many kettles and depressions. the South Coastal Region is characterized also relatively mild with a mean minimum January temperature of 14º F and an aver- by a relatively smooth coastline of large The southwestern portion of this region age annual snowfall of 55”, which is less headlands, broad arcuate bays, and sand and the Southwest Interior contain the only than all the other regions and less than half beaches. The terrain is relatively flat with soils with mesic temperature regime (an the state average. Although mean annual elevations rarely rising above 100’. Higher average annual soil temperature of >45º F precipitation (45”) is about average for the elevations occur on a pluton located near and <60º F) in the state. the headwaters of the York River and Goose state, warm summer temperatures result in a relatively small moisture surplus (<1.2”). Rocks Stream. Mount Agamenticus, which Vegetation and Flora reaches an elevation of 691’, is the highest This region also experiences less than half the fog of the East Coastal Region. point in the region. Bedrock is composed The vegetation of the South Coastal Region primarily of low-grade metasedimentary resembles that of the Atlantic Coastal Plain. Ecosystems that reach their northern exten-

A|62 sions here include sandplain grasslands Region. Mean maximum July temperature and oak-hickory forests. This is the only is 79º F, with a slight decrease in tempera- part of the state where Quercus alba and ture from west to east. The mean minimum Carya ocata occur in large stands. The larg- January temperature of 13º F is slightly est coastal pitch pine communities in Maine warmer than that of the two regions to the occur on excessively well-drained, nutrient- east, while annual precipitation (45”) is no- poor sandy soils in Scarborough, Ken- ticeably less. Average annual snowfall nebunk, and Wells. Small stands of pitch (74”) is higher here than in other coastal pine-scrub oak and the state’s most exten- regions. The average number of heating sive salt marshes are also located in this degree days (3500) is substantially higher region. than in the East Coastal Region.

Subarctic maritime species that reach Surficial Geology and Soils southern limits in the South Coastal Region thin drift, low but more rugged topography include Empetrum nigrum, Hudsonia ericoi- is typical. Headlands and ridges are typically covered des, and Mertensia maritima. In addition, the with shallow (10-20”) somewhat exces- distribution of several coastal species asso- This portion of the coast, which is charac- sively drained Lyman fine-sandy loams and ciated with sand beaches extends along the terized by long narrow peninsula and is- very shallow Abram sandy loams. Well- mid and southern coasts, including Arteme- lands, is a classic example of a drowned drained, coarse loamy Tunbridge soils gen- sia caudata, Euphorbia polygonifolia, and Hud- coastline. The northeast-southwest trend- erally occur on midslopes where till is de- sonia tomentosa. An ecosystem that is being valleys and ridges reflect the strike of rived from schists and gneiss. Finer lieved to reach its southern limit here is the the underlying bedrock. Most of the region grained, moderately well-drained Buxton raised bog. is underlain by highly metamorphosed soils occur over glaciomarine deposits at sandstones and pelites. Long ridges are middle elevations. Deep, often highly- MIDCOAST REGION typically the crests of sharply folded layers dissected glaciomarine clays and silts are of bedrock, while softer sediments that ac- common in low-lying areas. Physiography cumulated in concave portions (synclines) have been eroded into long valleys. Gran- Vegetation and Flora The Midcoast Region extends from Cape itic plutons are small and widely scattered. Elizabeth to Pemquid Point and inland ap- Outcrops of metavolcanic rocks occur north The vegetation of the Midcoast region re- proximately 20 miles from the Gulf of and inland of Casco Bay. flects the moderating influence of the Gulf Maine. It is a landscape of flat to gently of Maine. Summer temperatures are cooler rolling terrain with elevations ranging from Climate and seasonal rainfall higher than inland sea level to 200’ and averaging 100’. From regions and fog is a frequent occurrence. Sheepscot Bay to Bailey Island, where bed- The temperature regime of the Midcoast The southernmost extent of the coastal rock is frequently exposed or covered by Region resembles that of the Penobscot Bay spruce-fir forest, which occurs in Harp-

A|63 swell, can be attributed to this. This ecosys- which occur at the tops of the granitic plu- than the East Coastal Region and slightly tem type is limited to a few small but repre- tons and form the Camden Hills and the cooler than the midcoast. Mean minimum sentative stands. Another vegetation type Blue Hill Peninsula, include Mt. Megunti- temperature in January is 11º F, approxi- that is well-developed along this portion of cook (1385’) and Blue Hill (934’). The bed- mately 2º cooler than the East Coastal Re- the coast is the coastal pitch pine commu- rock of Penobscot Bay east shore and the gion. Although average annual precipita- nity. Pinus rigida, and a common associate Muscongus Bay area is predominately tion (49”) is higher than in any other region, Corema conradii, grow on sand dunes and granite and the west shore of Penobscot average annual snowfall (63”) is less than bedrock outcrops in the coastal zone. Both Bay and Pemaquid Point are composed of that of the East and Midcoast Regions. This moderate winter temperatures and thin and metamorphosed pelites and sandstones. region also has a shorter growing season excessively well-drained soils are thought Metavolcanic rocks are restricted to the (140 days) than abutting coastal regions. to contribute to this ecosystem’s presence Cape Rosier area. here. Surficial Geology and Soils

Woody species that reach their northern East of Penobscot Bay, higher elevations are limits along this portion of the coast in- generally covered with thin drift which clude Hudsonia tomentosa, Lonicera dioica, provides the parent material for shallow, Nyssa sylvatica, Quercus coccinea, Rhus copal- coarse loamy Lyman soils. West of Penob- lina, Sassafras albidum, Smilax rotundifolia, scot Bay, upland areas are dominated by and Toxicodendron vernix. Woody species deep (>60”), coarse loamy Lyman soils. richness averages 191 species, the highest in West of Penobscot Bay, upland areas are the state. dominated by deep (>60”), coarse loamy Tunbridge and deep, coarse loamy Dixfield soils. Lyman soils, which tend to be some- PENOBSCOT BAY REGION what excessively drained, generally occur on ridge tops, while well and moderately Physiography Climate well-drained Tunbridge and Dixfield soils occur on ridge slopes. Coarse-grained, but The Penobscot Bay Region, which is In most respects, the climate is intermediate poorly drained Colonel and Brayton soils bounded by Pemaquid Point to the west between that of the East Coastal and Mid- are characteristic of lower ridges and toe and Brooklin to the east, includes the shore- coast Regions. Although there is a distinct slopes. Valleys and lowlands throughout lines and islands of Penobscot and Mus- maritime influence, with high annual pre- the region are filled with deep, poorly congus Bays and extends approximately 20 cipitation and frequent fog, higher summer drained glaciomarine clays and silts. miles inland from the Gulf of Maine. The temperatures result in a lower moisture terrain is knobby, with frequent bedrock surplus than in the East Coastal Region. outcrops and several small mountains. Av- Mean maximum temperature in July is erage elevation is 200’. Topographic highs, 77º F , which is approximately 4º F warmer

A|64 Vegetation and Flora EAST COASTAL REGION Isle au Haut and Jonesport are composed of biotite or muscovite granite. Gabbro, dio- The Penobscot Bay Region supports vegeta- Physiography rite, volcanic rhyolite, and basalt become tion that is transistional between the coastal abundant to the east. spruce-fir ecosystems of the east and a for- The East Coastal Region parallels the Gulf est dominated by Pinus strobus and Quercus of Maine in a 20 mile wide band that ex- Climate rubra to the southwest. Species of northern tends from Mount Desert Island and Isle au affinity, such as the distinctive subartic Haut east to Passamaquoddy Bay (in the The climate of the East Coastal Region is maritime flora of the East Coastal Region vicinity of Perry). The region is character- strongly moderated by the Gulf of Maine. are present only on offshore islands here. ized by low ridges surrounded by poorly The combination of land breezes in the The coastal spruce-fir forest is no longer drained, relatively flat terrain. Elevations summer and northeasters in the winter cre- continuous; it occurs in small stands on are generally less than 100’ with the excep- ates a climate characterized by cool sum- islands and exposed headlands. Twenty tions of mountains of Mount Desert Island mers, high annual precipitation, frequent woody species that reach their northern and the Tunk Lake area, which rise to eleva- summer fog, and a relatively high moisture limits in Maine or New Brunswick reach a tions of 1000’ or more. Topographic highs surplus. Mean minimum January tempera- coastal limit in the eastern portion of the occur on plutons of coarse-grained granitic tures are the warmest in the state, ranging Penobscot Bay Region. These include Acer rocks, while the more easily eroded finer- from 15º F in Eastport to 14º F in Bar Har- saccharinum, Alnus serrulata, Aralia racemosa, grained intrusive and metamorphic rocks bor. The mean maximum July temperature Carpinus caroliniana, Carya ovata, Castanea from Roque Bluffs to East Quoddy Head in Eastport (63º F) is lower than any dentata, Ceanothus americanus, Chamaecyparis have been worn to lower elevations. Bed- weather station record in the state except St. thyoides, Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Juniperus rock is predominately igneous, except for Francis, which is located 180 miles to the virginiana, Platanus occidentalis, Quercus outcrops of metavolcanic rocks near Co- north, and the Oquossoc and Cupsuptic macrocarpa, Quercus alba, Salix coactilis, Salix lumbia Falls and in the Cobscook Bay area. stations, which are located at elevations of nigra, Salix planifolia, Viburnum lentago, Vitis Most of the headlands and islands between more than 1600’. Average annual precipita- labrusca, Vitis novae-angliae, and Vitis riparia. tion ranges from 44” to 50”. Unlike other Most of these species are characteristic of regions of the state, more precipitation oc- warm temperate regions. This represents curs in the winter than in the summer. the highest concentration of northern range While the entire Maine coast experiences limits along the coast. Along with the fog during the summer months, the East southwestern portion of the East Coastal Coastal Region is shrouded by fog for twice Region, this portion of the Penobscot Bay as many hours as western Penobscot Bay Region marks the eastern end of the transi- and south. tion zone.

A|65 Surficial Geology and Soils papyrigera, Acer rubrum, and Picea glauca are rea, Kalmia latifolia, Pinus rigida, Prunus also common. A second ecosystem type maritima, Quercus bicolor, Quercus ilicifolia, On ridge tops, at high elevations, and on that is confined to the coastal zone along Quercus velutina, Rhododendron viscosum, outer peninsulas, soils are generally poorly the Bay of Fundy is the coastal plateau and Rubus odoratus. developed, acidic (due to the poor buffer- peatland. These peatlands, which generally ing capacity of the parent material), coarse- occur within 5 miles of open ocean, reach textured, and shallow. These areas are their southern limit in North America on dominated by coarse-loamy Lyman soils Mount Desert Island. Their development is and sandy-skeletal Schoodic soils, both of related to a low ratio of evapotranspiration which tend to be excessively drained and to precipitation. Cool temperatures and less than 20” in depth. Most low lying ar- frequent fog reduce evaporation resulting eas of the region, which were inundated by in a relatively high annual moisture sur- sea water as the glaciers receded, are cov- plus, creating favorable conditions for ered with deep marine clays and glaciola- Sphagnum growth. custrine deposits. On the slopes of ridges formed by deposits of glacial till, deep, In addition to these ecosystems, a number moderately well drained, loamy soils of the of plant species reach range limits in the Dixfield series are typical. The eastern edge vicinity of Mount Desert Island. Subarctic of the Pineo Ridge delta, which is com- maritime species that reach southern limits prised of coarse-grained glaciomarine in coastal headland communities or in sediments, crosses the region’s western coastal raised peatlands include: Aster foli- boundary. aceus, Iris hookeri, Lomatogonium rotatum, Montia lamprosperma, Primula mustassinica, Vegetation and Flora Rubus chamaemorus, and Sedum rosea. In addition, Empetrum nigrum, a subarctic spe- Two ecosystem types that are particularly cies that occurs on headlands as far south well developed in the East Coastal Region as the Cumberland County coast, is abun- are coastal spruce-fir forests and coastal dant in this region. raised peatlands. East of Penobscot Bay, most forests contain a substantial percent- The southwestern end of the East Coast age of spruce and fir. This coastal spruce-fir Region marks the eastern extent of the tran- ecosystem has been attributed to the cool sition zone. Thirteen woody species reach- growing season, ample moisture supply, ing limits in Frenchman Bay, Mount Desert and fog-laden winds that characterize the Island, or Schoodic Point include Clethra region’s climate. Picea rubens and Abies bal- alnifolia, Cornus florida, Cornus foemina ssp. samea are community dominants. Betula racemosa, Decodon verticillatus, Juglans cine-

A|66 D. SITE PHOTOGRAPHY images of each scenic area as part of the for fieldwork. The camera does not have documentation process. These digital files to be a professional quality, but it should A photographic record is a key component should be considered benchmarks that will have the following features: a) at least 5 of the assessment process. High quality be useful in later years as you study how mega pixels to ensure high quality output; images should supplement the narrative to the landscape changes in response to natu- b) variable focal lengths (zoom to wide an- show what makes the landscape memora- ral and cultural forces. These records will gle) with a setting that is equivalent to a 50 ble. Photographs can be a useful way of also be useful to demonstrate why particu- mm film camera; and c) a large clear LCD recording observations in the field when lar areas are considered important by the screen so you can review the results of your time is somewhat restricted. community in response to development work in the field. proposals that may affect scenic areas. Digital Records Digital Camera Settings Cameras While one or two key images may be used The digital camera should be set for the in the final report, the inventory process As noted earlier, a digital camera is highest resolution (most cameras will offer may collect dozens or even hundreds of strongly recommended over a film camera a basic, normal, and high quality range)

Cape Jellison, Stockton Springs

A|67 and either medium or large image size. tions on how to do it. On many of the tographs: a) shoot with the camera set to Use the large setting if you intend to en- newer cameras the focal length is set to 35 28mm (or whatever the lowest focal length large the images for posters or publications. mm, which produces a ‘normal’ view. The is on your camera), or b) take a series of If you do not anticipate this type of use, it ideal is to produce a photograph that cap- ‘normal’ images (50mm film equivalent) may be sufficient to use the medium setting tures a 38.6º angle of view, which is equiva- and merge them together in Photoshop or a to keep the image size at a reasonable level. lent to what the human eye sees. similar software. If image storage is not an Keep the ISO rating low (200) to eliminate issue (i.e., if you have a large capacity stor- background ‘noise’. Panoramic Views age card) you may want to do both. A single wide-angle photograph will be some- Focal Length Many scenic areas cover a relatively sizable what distorted when compared to the percentage of the field of view, requiring a merged image, but there is a considerable For most shots set the focal length to pro- panoramic photograph to adequately illus- saving in time. duce 50mm film equivalent photographs. trate the quality of the landscape. There are Check your owner’s manual for instruc- two approaches to creating wide angle pho- Tripod

The use of a tripod is recommended for the most signiﬁcant photographs to assure that the camera is a) level and b) not moving when the shutter is depressed. You may want to use a small carpenter’s level to make sure that the camera is shooting hori- zontally. This will become important if you want to later merge the photographs to create panoramic images or develop photosimulations to illustrate potential changes in the landscape. A tripod may not be as important when shooting context shots.

Scenic Areas

Consider scenic areas as large outdoor “rooms”, deﬁned by ground planes (water bodies, ﬁelds, roadways), walls (vertical elements such as trees or rock outcrops), ceilings (usually the sky, but it may be trees Orrs Island, Harpswell or man-made elements), and furnishings

A|68 (the visible signs of man’s presence in the Composition show both the resource itself as well as how landscape). In photographing scenic areas, it influences the surrounding landscape. it will be important to capture both the Avoid foreground clutter. While it is tempt- For example, in addition to a head-on whole room as well as those elements that ing to show flowers or guardrails in the photo of an historic church, the inventory define the room. immediate foreground, too much detail in should illustrate its prominence as a land- the immediate foreground can be distract- mark in the community from a variety of Viewpoints ing and detract from the objectivity of the viewpoints. As another example, if stone review. walls or old trees are important parts of a The photographic inventory should include rural landscape, the photographs should both characteristic views (the views typi- Context show how they define the edge of the road cally found within the scenic area) as well or frame distant views. as focal points (notable points of interest Take photographs of surrounding land uses within the landscape). Ideally the photo- to document the context of the scenic area. coverage should be able to demonstrate the These should be typical views showing effect of seasonal changes on visibility: a) homes, commercial and institutional build- visible throughout the year, b) partially ings, industrial development, roadways, visible throughout the year, c) not visible parking areas, etc., especially if they are during the summer, or d) partially visible oriented toward the view or contribute to during leaf-off season. You may have to go the sense of cohesiveness. In addition to back out during the winter to demonstrate recording the positive aspects of the land- what effect leaf coverage has on viewing scape, photograph elements that may be conditions. considered scenic detractors, such as transmission lines, structures that block Viewpoint Location views, and junkyards. If possible, include people in the photographs who are en- It may be important to be able to go back to gaged in typical activities (hiking, picnick- the photo locations at a later date, so each ing, dog-walking) to show how the com- image should be located by GPS. The co- munity uses the scenic area. ordinates should be kept in a data file and later transferred onto a base map. If you do Points of Interest not have access to GPS equipment, note the location of the photograph relative to Significant cultural resources (e.g., historic known objects (e.g., 53 feet south of utility structures, cemeteries, cultural landscapes pole 352-15). of note) that add richness and variety to scenic areas should be well documented as part of the inventory. Photographs should

A|69 0 MILE E. SITE INVENTORY TEMPLATE SCENIC INVENTORY TEMPLATE 1”=1000’ 5 ac 1/2 Mile 1/4

1/4 Mile 1/2

The Site Inventory Template has been designed to assist in the ofﬁce evaluation of Slope, Open Land, and Shoreline Conﬁguration. See

25% individual sections for speciﬁc instruction for use.

To use for ofﬁce evaluations, copy 40% SLOPE template at full scale onto an 8.5” x 3/4 11” sheet of acetate (transparent plastic).

A|70 F. SITE EVALUATION FORM COMMENTS Elevation Slope Duration of View Type of Water Quality of Horizon Land Use Roadside Characteristics Settlement Characteristics 5. Scenic Quality of Water INDICATORS 1. Landform 2. Open Land 3. Shoreline Configuration 4. Scenic Features Indicators Present DESKTOP SUBTOTAL 6. Landscape Character 7. Vegetation 8. Composition & Effect FIELD EVALUATION TOTAL SCORE IP ______SC Indicators Present Special Interest Scoring : : : SI SCENIC INVENTORY EVALUATION FORM Location ______Date ______SI SC IP Comments ______

A|71 G. GLOSSARY OF TERMS ANGLE OF OBSERVATION: The vertical COGNITIVE FACTORS: The largely angle between a viewer's line of sight and quantiﬁable characteristics of visual impact the slope being viewed. The visual magni- assessment: the number and location of Visual impact assessments and scenic in- tude of a slope or object being viewed in- viewers; distances, angles, duration, and ventories are relatively recent develop- creases as the angle of observation ap- conditions of viewing; the characteristic ments in natural resource analysis. Several proaches 90 degrees. landscape types; and the size, character, federal agencies have instituted Visual Re- and location of the proposed changes. In source Management (VRM) systems, utiliz- ASPECT: The side of a surface of a land- addition to these, visual assessment in- ing their own procedures and terminology, scape element facing a given direction. Vis- volves compositional and connotative fac- many of which have applicability to Maine. ual impacts decrease as the viewer aspect, tors. or lateral viewing angle, increases and as Over the past two decades a vocabulary has the aspect of the main surface of a land- COLOR: The portion of the electromag- evolved which has been used to describe scape element is oblique to the viewer. netic spectrum visible to the human eye the landscape and to evaluate changes to it. which causes activity in the retina of the Many of the concepts developed by the ATMOSPHERIC PERSPECTIVE: The ef- eye and its associated nerve systems, ena- federal agencies have relevance to the In- fect of distance from the viewer on the color bling one to distinguish between identical ventory of the Penobscot Bay Islands. and distinctness of objects. Typically, as objects. Color consists of the three compo- distance increases, objects become bluer, nents of saturation, hue and brightness. The vocabulary's origin and use vary. Some grayer, lighter, less contrasting and less dis- are common terms employed in the usual tinct. COMPOSITIONAL: The arrangement of way. In other cases, technical meanings the component parts of a landscape. Com- have been applied to very speciﬁc func- CHARACTER TYPE: A relatively large ponent parts are objects or activities usually tions. Terminology has also been drawn area of land that has common distinguish- described in terms of color, texture, line, from specialized areas like aesthetics and ing visual characteristics of landform, rock form, dominance, and scale. human physiology. formations, water forms, and vegetative patterns. CONNOTATIONAL FACTORS: Observ- ADVERSE VISUAL IMPACT. The nega- ers' mental connections, or associations be- tive effect of a regulated activity on the vis- CHARACTERISTIC LANDSCAPE: The tween a viewed landscape and sensations, ual quality of a landscape. naturally and culturally established land- perceptions, ideas, feelings, or memories. scape in a region. It is described visually by Associative values also cause nuclear cool- AESTHETICS: The science or philosophy the basic vegetative patterns, landforms, ing towers, for example, to receive extreme concerned with the quality of sensory expe- rock formations, water forms, and struc- negative visual ratings despite their hand- rience; the use here is limited to visual ex- tures which are repeated throughout the some, hyperbolic shapes. Together with perience. area. cognitive and compositional factors these form the basis for visual assessment.

A|72 CONE OF VISION: The horizontal and can fluctuate from one quarter to one factors: mode of transportation, speed of vertical angle of the landscape that is visi- half a mile from the observer. movement, obstacles in the foreground, ble from a viewpoint. Constrictions to the intention of the viewer, amount of clearing viewer's eye may include buildings, street • Midground - Extends from the edge of between viewer and view, and opportuni- trees, forest edges, or foreground land- the foreground to 4± miles from the ties for pull-offs along a road. forms. Travel speed and the design of the observer. Texture is normally charac- automobile are additional constrictions to terized by the masses of trees in stands • Short Views - Fleeting glimpses of the viewer's eye. of uniform tree cover. relatively short duration, from 1 to 3 seconds. CONFIGURATION: The amount of irregu- • Background - Extends from the mid- larity and/or enclosure in the shoreline. ground to infinity. • Medium Views - Visible for a moder- Shorelines with coves, points, bays, islands, ate amount of time, from 3 to 10 sec- and other features are considered highly DOMINANCE: The extent to which an onds. configured, and are usually thought to be object is noticeable when compared to the highly scenic. surrounding context. An object(s) may be: • Long Views - Visible for extended periods of time, greater than 10 seconds. CONGRUITY: The conformity of one land- • Dominant - The element is visually scape element to its surroundings. The op- prominent and occupies a visually sen- FORM: The mass or shape of an object or posite of contrast. sitive position within a landscape, combination of objects which appear uni- usually at an upper elevation. A domi- fied: the physical structure of an object(s). CONTRAST: The way in which an intro- nant object will greatly influence the duced element may be compared to deter- visual perception of the landscape HUE: The name of a color, such as yellow- mine differences. Contrast is measured in from a particular viewpoint. green or red, and one of color's three com- terms of form, line, color, texture, domi- ponents. nance, or scale. • Co-Dominant - Two or more elements have relatively equal visual importance LANDFORM: The dominant topographic DISTANCE ZONES: Horizontal divisions in the landscape. features of the landscape, described in of the landscape being viewed. terms of slope and repetitive natural forms. • Subordinate - The object is visually • Foreground - The visible landscape inferior to the rest of the landscape as a LANDSCAPE: The surface features of an within one quarter mile from the ob- result of its relative size, brightness, area including landform, water, vegetation, server. At this range textures and gross distance, color, or mass. cultural features and all other objects and details are easily discernible. Trees, for aspects of natural and human origin. example, may be appreciated for their DURATION: Relative measure of the time individual characteristics. In some vis- available to experience a view. The actual ual evaluation systems this distance elapsed time will be a function of many

A|73 LANDSCAPE QUALITY: Relative level of of tree growth, little topographic relief, • Screening - Installation or preservation visual diversity or landscape character. Fea- and the lack of water bodies. of physical visual barriers to minimize tures such as Landform, Vegetation, Water, views of a proposed activity. and Cultural Features are compared singu- • Class E: Disturbed - Landscapes that larly or in combination with those com- have been severely altered by natural • Minimization - Limiting the magni- monly found in the study area. Landscapes or man-made forces that result in an tude, duration, or time of an activity. can be classified into variety classes to indi- alteration or degradation of visual cate the degree of variety present: quality. Disturbed landscapes may be • Rectification - Restoration, repair, or either temporary, semi-permanent, or rehabilitation of an affected environ- • Class A: Distinctive - Areas where permanent in nature. Examples might ment. vegetation patterns, landforms, water include a forest scarred by a forest fire, bodies, rock formations, cultural pat- tailings from a mining operation, or a • Management - Reducing or eliminat- terns, or combinations of these ele- highly visible quarry on an island. ing an impact through preservation ments are of unusual or outstanding and maintenance operations during visual quality, and are generally con- LINE: Anything that is arranged in a row the life of a project. sidered to be of state-wide or national or sequence. The path, real or imagined, significance. Examples might include that the eye follows when perceiving • Compensation - Replacement of af- Mount Katahdin, Camden Harbor, or abrupt differences in form, color, or texture, fected resources or provision of substi- the Loop Road at Acadia National or when objects are aligned in a one- tutes. Park. dimensional sequence. Line is usually evi- dent as the edge of shapes or masses in the SCALE: The proportional size relationship • Class B: Noteworthy - A combination landscape. between an introduced object(s) relative to of landscape elements that is above the the surrounding landscape. Severe con- average for the characteristic land- MITIGATION: Any action taken or not trasts result from the introduction of major scape, but not outstanding relative to taken to avoid, minimize, rectify, reduce, or objects significantly larger than their sur- national or state-wide measures. Ex- eliminate actual or potential adverse envi- roundings. Viewing angle can affect the amples might include Wolfes Neck ronmental impact, including adverse visual perception of scale. Scale can be described Woods State Park, Rangeley Lake, or impact. Actions may include: in terms of: Rockland Harbor. • Avoidance - Not taking a certain action • Absolute Scale - A measurement of • Class C: Common - The characteristic height or width landscape of an area. • Design - Measures taken during the siting or design of a facility to mini- • Relative Scale - The apparent size rela- • Class D: Below Average - Little or no mize contrasts in form, line, color, tex- tionship between the object and its sur- visual variety with the landscape. ture, or scale with the surrounding roundings. Characterized by monotonous patterns landscape.

A|74 SCENERY: The general appearance of a VALUE: The sensation that one color ap- VIEWERS: People who see the landscape place; the features seen in the landscape. pears to be lighter or darker than another. at present, or who are likely to see a project Value is one element in determining the in the future. SCENIC AREA: An area which exhibits a relative contrast or congruity between high degree of variety, harmony, and con- landscape elements. VIEWPOINT: The actual point from which trast among the basic visual elements, re- a viewer sees the landscape or a proposed sulting in a place with greater than normal VIEW: That portion of the landscape that is alteration. visual quality. seen from a particular vantage point. VIEWSHED: All the surface areas visible SCENIC HIGHWAY: A section of state- VIEWER ELEVATION: The position of the from a particular viewpoint or a proposed assisted highway that has been noted by viewer relative to the scene being viewed. activity; also, the surface area(s) within the Maine Department of Transportation which a critical object or viewpoint is seen. for its scenic quality. • Viewer Inferior - Viewer is below that The viewshed may include the total visible portion of a scene with the greatest activity area from a single observer position SCENIC RESOURCE: Public natural re- visual interest. or the total visible activity area from multi- sources or public lands visited by the gen- ple observers’ positions. eral public, in part for the use, observation, • Viewer Normal - Viewer looks straight enjoyment, and appreciation of natural or ahead to see the majority of the view; VISUAL ACCESS: The degree to which a cultural visual qualities. The attributes, the most common relationship be- landscape element can be seen from a par- characteristics, and features of the land- tween viewer and scenery. ticular viewpoint. The loss of visual access scape of a scenic resource provide varying to a scenic resource could be considered an responses from, and varying degrees of • Viewer Superior - Viewer is elevated adverse visual impact. beneﬁts to, humans. above the scene observed, usually looking down to the rear portions of VISUAL CHARACTER: The overall im- SIGHTLINE: The unobstructed line of the foreground. This position tends to pression of a landscape created by the order sight between an observer and an object. increase the importance of landscape of the patterns composing it: the visual elements observed because of the elements of these patterns are the form, TEXTURE: The aggregation of small forms viewer's usual tendency to look line, color, and texture of the landscape's or color mixtures into a continuous surface slightly downward and more of the components. Their interrelationships can be pattern, resulting in a surface's mottling, view is obstacle-free. described in terms of dominance, scale, di- graininess, or smoothness. These smaller versity, and continuity. parts do not appear as discrete objects in VIEWER EXPECTATION: An estimate of the landscape. people's concern for visual quality in the VISUAL IMPACT: The degree of scenic environment. quality change that results from a land use activity. Negative visual impacts affect en-

A|75 vironmental quality, either by limiting visual access to scenic resources or by disrupt- ing the harmony, diversity or character of natural landscape elements.

VISUAL QUALITY. The essential attributes of the landscape that when viewed elicit overall beneﬁts to individuals and, therefore, to society in general. The quality of the resource and the signiﬁcance of the resource are usually, but not always, corre- lated.

VISUAL RESOURCES: The features that make up the visible landscape.

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