Acknowledgments
THIS BOOKLET I S THE PRODUCT Of THE work of many individuals. Although it is based on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Wetlands Inventory (NWI), tlus booklet would not have been produced without the support and cooperation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Patrick Pergola served as project coordinator for the wetlands inventory and Dan Montella was project coordinator for the preparation of this booklet. Ralph Tiner coordi nated the effort for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). Data compiled from the NWI serve as the foun dation for much of this report. Information on the wetland status for this area is the result of hard work by photointerpreters, mainly Irene Huber (University of Massachusetts) with assistance from D avid Foulis and Todd Nuerminger. Glenn Smith (FWS) provided quality control of the interpreted aerial photographs and draft maps and collected field data on wetland communities. Tim Post (N.Y. State D epartment of Environmental Conservation), John Swords (FWS), James Schaberl and Chris Martin (National Park Ser vice) assisted in the field and the review of draft maps. Among other FWS staff contributing to this effort were Kurt Snider, Greg Pipkin, Kevin Bon, Becky Stanley, and Matt Starr. The booklet was reviewed by several people including Kathleen Drake (EPA), G eorge H odgson (Saratoga County Environmental Management Council), John Hamilton (Soil and W ater Conserva tion District), Dan Spada (Adirondack Park Agency), Pat Riexinger (N.Y. State Department of Environ mental Conservation), Susan Essig (FWS), and Jen nifer Brady-Connor (Association of State Wetland Nlanagers). Several individuals were instrumental in providing information referenced in this report or material used to complete the wetlands inventory: George Hodgson, Steve Hill (FWS), Mark Silverman (USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service), Pat Riexinger, Jim Everard, Alan Koechlein, and Bill Miller (NYSDEC). I also thank those people who have contributed photographs. Photo credits are shown for each photo, except for those taken by the author
This report should be cited as follows:
Tiner, R.W. 2000. Wetlands of Saratoga County, New York. Vital Resources for People and Wildlife. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ecological Services, Northeast Region, Hadley, MA. Prepared for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region II, New York, NY. Cooper ative National Wetlands lnventory Publication. 19 pp. Wetlands of Saratoga County, New York Vital Resources for People and Wildlife
RALPH W. TINER
Regional Wetland Coordinator U.S. fish and Wildlife Service Ecological Services 300 Westgate Center Drive Hadley, MA 01 035
A Cooperative Notional Wetlands Inventory Publication with funding Support from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencyl
January 2000 Contents Preface ii What Are Wetlands? 1 Wetlands Maps 6 General Distribution of Wetlands and Deepwater H abitats 7 Wetlands Inventory Acreage Summaries 8 Why Are Wetlands Worth Saving? 9 H ow Are W etlands Changing? 13 H ow Are Wetlands Being Protected? 14 What M ore Can Be Done to Conserve and Restore Wetlands? 17 Wetland Resource Guide 19
Copies of this booklet may be obtained from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Wetland Protection Section, Region II, 290 Broadway, New York, NY 10007-1 866
1 Although the jn/orma/ion in Ihis document has bun funded wholly or in par' hy llu u.s. Env inmmental Protl!cliOIl Agmry und!!r amslanu agrunll!nt DW14941821-0J-O to thl! U. S. Fish alld Wildlfft SU'fJiu, il may 1I()1 nl!((Ssari/y njlut thi! vj~ of Ihl! Agtmcy fltld 110 ojJidal mdorJl!ml!nt should k inJl!TTl!d. Preface
T I'II S RE PO RT IS BAS ED LARGE LY ON A acreage exists in the county?, (2) where are wet wetlands inventory of Saratoga County, New York lands most abundant?, and (3) what types are conducted by the U.S. Fish and W ildlife Service's most common? The inventory results are present National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) Program. ed in a series of large-scale (1:24,000) maps T he NVVI is producing wetland maps and statisti (identifying the location, type, and shape of most cal information on the status and trends of the wetlands larger than 1-3 acres in size), a techni nation's wetlands. To date, wetland maps have cal report, and this booklet. The inventory uti been produced for approximatdy 90 percent of the lized 1985/86 aerial photography to map wet coterminous United States (lower 48 states). The lands. Wetlands were c1assif.ed to various types, earliest NWI maps are based on 19705 aerial pho including emergent, scrub-shrub, and forested tography and need updating, while the newest wetlands. For a full description of the NWI map maps are compiled from 1990s photography. The ping process, including the classification system, NWI was initiated to provide government age n please refer to the technical report Wetlands and cies and the American public with information on D eepwater Habitats of Saratoga COll llty, New York: the current status of wetlands to aid in resource The R esults of the Nati01ud Wetlands Inventory decision- making. Wetlands provide many impor which is available from the U.S. Fish and tant functions (e.g., flood storage, water quality W ildlife Service's Region 5 Office (see title page protection, shoreline stabilization, and habitat for for address). Copies of individual maps may be many fi sh and wildlife) and are among the nation's ordered from: Cornell Institute fo r Resource most valuable naturaJ resources. Since European Information Systems (IRIS), Resource Informa colonization, the coterminous U.S. has lost more tion Laboratory, 302 Rice Hall, Cornell Universi than half of its original wetlands. Further loss or ty, Ithaca, New York 14853, (607) 255-4864 or degradation of remaining wetlands will jeopardize 255-6520. wetland functions and the values they provide This booklet summarizes the results of the society. The wetlands survey for Saratoga County wetlands inventory for Saratoga County. It pro was completed with support from EPA and the vides brief descriptions of the area's wetlands, their National Park Service. distribution, and their values. In addition, the The inventory was designed to determine the booklet presents information on wetland protec status of wetlands and deepwater habitats in tion, recommendations to improve management Saratoga County. The inventory answers a few and conservation of wetlands, and lists of resource questions, including: (1) how much wetland agencies and additional readings.
Emt:rgent wetland and laclIJtrjne deeP'Water habitat at Meny VIy (Adironda(k Park).
n" What Are Wetlands?
. WETLANDS A RE LANDS THAT ARE FLOODED nantly hydrophytes; (2) the substrate is pre or saturated at or near the ground surface for vary dominantly undrained hydric soil; and (3) the ing periods during the year. The term "wetland" is substrate is nonsoil and is sarurated with water derived from two words, "wet" and "land," This or covered by shallow water at some time dur ing the growing season of each year.2 implies that wetlands are lands that are at least periodically wct enough to limit uses of the land (e.g., usuaUy ca n't farm without draining and can't This definition focuses on three attributes: (1) build without filling). Wetlands are the collection the degree of flooding or soil saturation (wetland of wet environments that occur on the landscape, hydrology); (2) wetland vegetation (hydrophytes); including marshes, wet meadows, swamps, bogs, and (3) wet soils (hydric soils). All areas consid and seasonally inundated floodplains. Ponds and ered wetlands must frequently have an excess of the shallow water zones of lakes are also consid water for sufficient duration to stress plants and ered wetlands, while open water arcas deeper than animals not adapted for life in water or periodical 6.6 feet are classified as deepwater habitats. ly saturated soils. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, with wide scientific peer review, developed a technical Where Do Wetlands Form? definition of wetland for the purpose of conduct ing a nationwide inventory of wetlands-the Wetlands form in areas subject to frequent flood National Wetlands l nventory (NWl). This defini ing or prolonged soil saturation. These areas may 2 Source: Classification of tion forms the foundation for the Service's official be covered by surface water from river overflow or HoTel/allds and Dupw(J wetland classification system which has been runoff from adjacent uplands. Waterlogging is ler Habitats of the adopted as the federal standard for reporting on oftcn associated with high groundwater tables. For Unifld Statts (1 979) the status and trends of America's wetlands: these wet conditions to have a significant impact published by the U.S Fish and Wildlife on plants, animals, and soil properties, water must Wetlands are lands transitional between ter Service, W.ashington, res trial and aquatic systems where the water be present for an extended period on a recurring D C 20240. table is usually at or near the surface or the basis. Scientists have determined that the mini 3 Source: Wetlands Char land is covered by shaUow water. For purposes mum wetness for a wetland is saturation within 1 aclnistia alld Bound arits (1995) published of this classification wetlands must have one foot of the ground surface for 2 weeks or more dur by National Academy or more of the foUowing three attributes: (1) at ing the growing season in most years (every other Press, W.ashingron, least periodically, the land supports predomi- year, on average).3 These areas are also wet for DC 20418.
SellSonally Tempo rarilv Seasonallv Wetlands develop in Flooded Rooded WeIland Rooded Wetland ____y!!!nd _ (1W) Wetland 1W plaus where ground ~Jlland_ .. --- _._--_ ..- , .. - . _ ~~d • water discharges and/or surfau water aCCUlnU- • lales. This cross-stclion- , 01 diagram shOWJ groundwater flow paths Ihal creole wetlands at Spring·fed , • : Wethllld diffirenl locations 011 the • • / ! landscape. (Adapted • from figure by Martha , I • Hayts)
Vertical scale greatlv exaggerated.
WETI.ANDS OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW Y ORK 1 extended periods during the "non-growing season" not necessarily due to wetness (reduced condi (late fall to early spring), The presence ofice-cov tions). These soils complicate hydric soil identifi ered depressions is a familiar sight for those who cation and require close examination by a soil spe visit Saratoga County's marshes and swamps in cialist. In soils frequently flooded for very long wincer. Water entering wetlands comes from sever periods, peat or muck accumulate at rhe surface al sources including rainfall, snowmelt, river over because leaves and other organic matter do not flow, surface water runoff, lateral subsurface flow, readily decompose. Where the organic layer is springs, and other groundwater discharge. Besides thicker than 16 inches, the soils are called "organ flooding low-lying flat areas (e.g., floodplains) ic soils". Soils with a thinner organic layer or lack along waterbodies, water collects in depressions, at ing such layer are typically "mineral soils." Hydric the toes of slopes, and even on slopes in association mineral soils tend to havc a thick grayish layer with drainageways, seeps, and springs. below the topsoiLS When soils are flooded andlor saturated for a few days or longer, most soils become oxygen-defi How Are Wetlands Identified? cient (anaerobic). This has a great impact on plants. Since all plants require oxygen for survival Given that water collects in certain places on the and growth, only plants with special adaptations terrain, the landscape position (e.g., along water can live in these periodically anaerobic soils. These body) and landform (e.g., depressions, broad flats, water-tolerant plants ("hydrophytes") have devel floodplains, drainageways, or seepage slopes) oftcn oped special adaptations, like shallow root systems, provide the first clues of the likely presence of air-filled organs (aerenchyma tissue), and physio wetland. There are also apparent signs of wetness, logical mechanisms (internal body processes), to such as an area flooded for extended periods dur cope with these oxygen-deficient conditions.4 Out ing the growing season or an area with saturated TOP of all the vascular plants that grow in the United soils in the driest part of summer. Since many wet J ewelweed, an herb that lands are dry for a significant portion of the year, is more (ommon in wet States, only a third can tolerate the prolonged and they are mostly characterized by the presence of lands thon ;11 IIp/ands. recurrent wetness imposed by wetlands. Surpris ingly, most of these plants can also grow in uplands hydrophytes and hydric soils or substrates. The BOTIOM to varying degrees. Many are quite common in fed eral government has published lists of these Hy dric mineral soil both wet and dry habitats and some are even culti plants and soils and has developed scientific tech exhibiting typical gray vated for landscaping around houses (e.g., red niques for identifying wetlands.6 New York State SlIhsoil maple and silver maple). Roughly one-quarter of has also developed similar procedures for delineat the plants identified as potential hydrophytes grow ing state-regulated wetlands. Field guides to wet exclusively in wetlands. These "obligate wetland" land plants, hydric soils, or wetland identification species include plants such as water lilies, cattails have also been published to aid in recognizing (frequent in roadside ditches), button bush (a shrub wetlands (see Additional Readings). Wetland maps
4 r or an indcpth a n aly ~ typical of shallow inland waters), leatherleaf (a are available to help locate wetlands. These maps sis of hydrophytes and low-growing evergreen bog shrub), and Atlantic are mainly derived by interpreting aerial photo thei r adaptations, white cedar (an evergreen tree). graphs and, therefore, tend to show the larger wet consult Wetland IlIdi Soil development is also affected by anaerobic lands, with many small or narrow wetlands not mtl)rs: A Gll ide to H~/ land Identijication, conditions. Lack of oxygen causes the soil envi designated. Potential wetlands may also be identi Drlil/ealion, C!assifira ronment to become chemically reduced-a state fied by locating hydric soil mapping units on soil li(m, and Mapping (sec where many elements like iron become soluble. maps produced by the V .S.D.A. N atural Additional Readings). Such soils typically lose all or most of the red, yel Resources Conservation Service. 5 Consult /11 Searfh 0/ low, or orange color of iron oxides ("rust" color) In most cases, on-the-ground evaluation must SWlImplaml and We/ Imlff Intii(ators for characteristic of many well-drained (oxygen-rich) be performed to accurately identifY wetlands and derails (sec Addilirmal soils. As a result, many "hydric soils" are gray-col their boundaries, especially if the question concerns Readings). ored and mottled with orange or yellow spots defining the limits of wetlands regulated by federal, 6 For information on below the topsoil as iron is leached out of the soil state, or local authorities. Hydrophytic vegetation these lists and tech or because iron occurs in a reduced state (ferrous and hydric soils plus other signs of prolonged saru niques, co ntact the U.S Army Corps of iron). The more the water table fluctuates, the ration are used to identifY "regulated wetlands" sub Engineers, U.S. Envi more orange to yellow colors occur in the gray soil. ject to the federal Clean Water Act regulations. ronmental Protection Dry or wet soils beneath evergreen trees (e.g., Signs of wetland hydrology include observed water Agency, or other fed hemlocks) may also have a gray layer beneath the or soil saruration during the growing season, water cral agencies listed at the end of this topsoil. This is due to leaching of iron by organic marks, silt deposits, water-deposited debris (drift booklet. acids produced from decomposing needles and is lines), water-stained leaves (blackened leaves in
2 depressions), and orange-stained soil around living Most wetlands are colonized by plams and 7 Terms such as lotic, roots (oxidized rhizospheres). In contrast, the State are commonly called "marshes", "swamps", and lenric, and terrene are of New York first emphasizes hydrophytic vegeta "bogs".8 Their period.ic wetness or shallow water furthered defined in Krys to umdHape tion for identifying state-regulated wetlands, but habitat distinguishes them from "deepwater habi Position and Londform also uses other features (hydric soil properties and tats" of lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. Often, wetland DfUTip10rJ for US. signs of wecland hydrology) for less obvious wet types are named after their dominant plant Wetlands (Operational Draft) available from lands. Remember, however, that not all wetlands are species, such as cattail marsh, red maple swamp, U.S. F ish and vegetated-mud flats along exposed shores and alder swamp, leatherleaf bog, and hemlock Wildlife Service (ES shallow bottoms of rivers, lakes, and ponds may not swamp. Other wetlands are nonvegetared, period NWI), 300 Westgate be colonized by plants, but are still considered wet ically exposed flats or shallow water areas along Center Drive, H adley, MA 01035. lands by scientists. the shores of rivers, streams, ponds, and lakes. 8 For descri ptions and According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Ser illustrations of wet How Do Wetlands DiHer? vice's wetland classification system, freshwater land plants, see In wetlands are divided into three ecological sys S~ar,h of Swampland A variety of wecland types exist due to differences tems: palustrine, lacustrine, and riverine. The (listed under Addi tional Readings). in soils, hydrology, water chemistry, vegetation, majority of inland wetlands are called palustrine and other factors. All of the wetlands in Saratoga wetlands. Palustrine wetlands are mostly vegetated County are inland (non tidal} weclands-freshwa wet areas (marshes, swamps, and bogs), but also ter marshes, swamps, and bogs well beyond the include small, shallow ponds. M ost of the other reach of ocean-driven tides. They usually occur on fres hwater wetlands are lacustn'ne wetlands associ floodplains along rivers and streams (i.e., lotic ated with the shallow water zone of lakes and wetlands), in the shallow water zone and along the reservoirs. Lacustrine wetlands are generally lim margins of lakes (i.e., len tic wetlands), in ponds ited to aquatic beds, nonpersistent marshes and along their shores, and in isolated depressions (where herbaceous vegetation dies back every surrounded by upland (i.e., terrene wetlands). year), and the shallow water zone (less than 6.6 Some wetlands arc formed on slopes where feet deep). Riverine wetlands may be similarly Lotit wetland a/ang groundwater seeps our of the soil (i.e., terrene vegetated, but are contained within a river or mot/nlain Jtream il1 the slope wetlands).7 stream channel. M ost riverine wetlands are non- KayaderosseroJ Ral1ge.
WETLANDS OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW Y ORK 3 White water lily bed in develop in these wetlands. Dominant marsh Ballston Lakl!. species include broad-leaved cattail, pu rple looses trife, big arrowhead, and eastern bur-reed. Arrow arum, soft-stemmed bulrush, wool-grass, tussock sedge, and blue flag (iris) also occur, along with various aquatic plants. W et meadows are seasonally wet fields including former pastures and cropland, aban doned beaver flowages, or recently clearcut wet lands. They usually have gray-colored hydric min erai soils reflecting prolonged saturation by high groundwater tables. Some meadows arc inundated for brief periods. They typically have high water tables in winter and spring, often with pockets of
BELOW, TOP TO BOTfOi\I vegetated periodically exposed shores and shaUow standing water. In summer, the water tables are stream bottoms. quite low and at times, no water can be found. Pur Cattail marsh. Vegetated wetlands may be separated into ple loosestrife (an invasive species) is perhaps the Rud canary grass wet four major types based on their dominant vegeta most conspicuous wet meadow species, especially mcadow. tion: (1) aquatic beds of floating-leaved plams, in late su mmer when its purplish blooms attract Sircart/side alder free-floating plants, and submergent (underwater) attention. Other conspicuous flowering plants of swamp. plants, (2) emergent wetlanth characterized by wet meadows include goldenrods, jewelweed, blue grasses, sedges, and other vervain,Joe-Pye-weeds, boneset, and asters. Many nonwoody plants, (3) of the typical meadow plants are inconspicuous scrub-shrub wetlands repre grasses or grasslike plants such as reed canary grass, sented by low- to medium tussock and other sedges, bulrushes, soft rush, and height (less than 20 feet sweet flag. Sensitive fern may occur in significant taU) woody plants, and (4) numbers. Shrubs and saplings of trees typical of forested wetlands dominated woody wetlands may be interspersed in many wet by trees (woody plants 20 meadows, especially those that haven't been recent feet or taller). ly grazed, mowed, or burned. Aquatic beds form in Scrub-shrub wetlands or si mply, shrub open waterbodies such as swamps, are characterized by thickets of low ponds, lakes, and slow woody growth (less than 20 feet tall). Speckled flowing rivers. White water alder, red osier dogwood, common elderberry, lily beds are common in the northern arrowwood, broad-leaved meadowsweet, shallow water zone of lakes steeplebush, northern wild raisi n, silky dogwood, and ponds, like Ballston common winterberry, willows, and swamp rose are Lake. Other characteristic typical species. An exotic honeysuckle escaped aquatic bed species include from cultivation may occur. Buttonbush, perhaps spatterdock (yellow pond our wettest growing shrub, may be found in shal lily), water milfoil, water low water along pond margins and lake shores or in shield, and duckweeds. An water-filled depressions within forested wetlands. ••mvaslve exotiC• specl• es- Sweet gale occurs in the former places and in bogs. water chestnut-occurs Shrub bogs are uncommon in Saratoga County, along the Mohawk River mostly found in the northwestern section. Rooted (Erie Canal) ncar Vi scher in a thick mat of living and decomposed peat moss Ferry and in Lake Lonely. are low-growing evergreen shrubs like leatherleaf, Emergent wetlands sheep laurel, and bog rosemary, with emergents are represented by marshes such as northern pitcher-plant, cotton-grasses, and and wet meadows. Marshes sunde\.vs. Wild cranberries may also be present. are usually flooded for most Forested wetlands, the predominam wet of the year. O rganic soils land type in Saratoga County, are periodically (mucks) or mineral soils flooded andlor saturated forests. T hey are domi with high amounts of nated by deciduous trees (lose their leaves each organic matter commonly fall), evergreen trees, or mixed stands. Red maple
4 Swamp white oak. [oreJled wetland
swamp is perhaps the most common forested wet fringed sedge, and bladder sedge. Other common land type. Green ash and white pine may be co herbs (nonwoody plants) in deciduous swamp dominants in these swamps. Eastern cottonwood, forests include skunk cabbage (most evident in box elder, silver maple, American elm, swamp spring/early summer, whose crushed leaves yield a 8ELOW white oak, and black willow are common in flood skunklike odor), marsh marigold {a bright yellow Hemlock. rwamp. plain wetlands. Black gum, black ash, and trem springtime wildflower}, spring beauty, jewelweed, BOTIOM bling aspen are other significant broad-leaved jack-in- the-pulpit, marsh horsetail, Canada Red maple JWilmp. deciduous species. A cone-bearing tree with decid mayflower, blue flag (iris). uous needle-leaves-called larch or tamarack wood reed, and manna also occurs and may be a co-dominant in some grasses. ]n evergreen forested wetlands, especially in the northern part of swamps, the herb layer is the County. It is most evident in the fall when its less diverse (mainly Cana needles rum a yellowish color before dropping off. da mayflower, gold thread, Eastern white pine and hemlock are the principal cinnamon fern, and sensi species of evergreen forested wetlands. Balsam fir. tive fern). Peat mosses northern white cedar, and black spruce occur in may be common in lesser abundance. Several deciduous trees may be depressions in wetter found in these evergreen swamp forests. including swamps. Within both the ubiquicous red maple, green ash, yellow birch. forested wetlands and and trembling aspen. upland forests, small ver Many deciduous forested wetlands have an nal pools may exist. These abundance of shrubs typical of shrub swamps (list shallow ponds hold water ed above) plus others like gray birch, gray dog from late fall through wood, and high bush blueberry. Shrubs of ever mid-summer and serve as green swamps are usually less varied and include vital breeding grounds for northern wild raisin, high bush blueberry, winter many woodland amphib berry, spicebush, and speckled alder. Ferns, like ians (e.g., spotted sala cinnamon fern, royal fern, sensitive fern, and manders, newts, wood mars h fern, are common in many swamps. Sedges frogs, spring peepers, and may also be plentiful, especially tussock sedge, gray tree frogs).
W ETLANDS OF SARATOGA C OUNTY, N EW YORK 5 -
Wetland Maps
A TOTAL OF 27 LARGE-SCALE (1,24,OOO) evergreen shrub bogs), whereas forested wetlands National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) maps were are shown as PFO-types (e.g., PFOIE for broad prepared for Saratoga County. These maps show leaved deciduous swamps like red maple swamps, the general location of wetlands and deepwater or PF04E for needle-leaved evergreen swamps habitats throughout the counry. These habitats dominated eastern white pine or hemlock). For were identified through photointerpretation of more information on the codes, see NWI Maps 198516, 1:58:000 color infrared aerial photogra Made Emy: A User's Guide fa National wetlands phy. With this scale imagery, most wetlands larg inventory Maps of the Northeast Region (available er than 1-3 acres in size are likely to be mapped, from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service). An along with smaller conspicuous depressional wet example of a portion of an NWI map for the lands (such as ponds). Wetlands are classified by Saratoga Springs quadrangle is shown below. their vegetation type or substrate (for nonvegetat Copies of the NWI maps are available for pur cd areas), predicted water regime (hydrology), and chase from the Cornell Institute for Resource other features. The maps use an alpha-numeric Information Systems (IRIS), 302 Rice H all, Itha code (a series ofletters and numbers) to designate ca, NY 14853. In addition, for use in geographic different types. For example, palustrine emergent information systems, NWI maps are available in wetlands are classified in categories of increasing digital form and may be downloaded fro m the wetness as PEMIA (temporarily flooded type), Internet (http://wetlands.fws.gov). Try out the PEM1C {seasonally flooded}, PEM1E (seasonal Wetlands Interactive Mapper at this website to ly flooded/saturated), and PEMIF (semiperma obtain information on the location of wetlands in nently flooded). Palustrine scrub-shrub wetlands your neighborhood or another area of interest. You are designated as PSS-types (e.g., PSSIE for may also be able to view an aerial photo of such shrub swamps like alder swamps, or PSS3Ba for areas through the Terraserver View at this site.
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6 -
General Distribution of Wetlands and Habitats
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N l egend Palustrine Fores1ed Wetlands Other Palustrine Vegetated Wetlands . , lakes, Ponds, RivefS, and Streams
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WETLANDS Of' SARATOGA C OUNTY, NEW Y ORK 7 Wetlands Inventory Acreage Summaries
Saratoga County We~ands A CREA GES OF WETLAN D S A N D DEEPWATER habitats fo r Saratoga County were compiled from Emergonl 3328 digital NWI map data using a geographic infor Emergent/Shrub mation system. The data include wetlands and Scrub-Shn..tl 3125 deepwater habitats generally 1-3 acres in size and
FOflIsted'Shrub larger the target mapping unit of the NWI
Deciduous FOf6 Sted 13709 maps prepared for this geographic area. W etlands
MiJl8d Rlfested 8237 that escaped detection because they were too small , too narrow, or too difficult to identifY Evergreen Forested 1949 through conventional aerial photointerpretacion OIhef mested techniques are not included.9 Miles of small 2731 ""'," streams mapped duri ng the survey are also report 89 ed fo r the County. These numbers should not, 118 however, be considered the total stream miles, 3 since many intermittent and smaller streams were
0 2000 4000 6000 8000 ' 0000 ' 2000 <4000 not inventoried. Saratoga County encompasses about 850 square-miles in eastern New York. T he Hudson Percent by We~and Type River forms the eastern boundary and part of the northern border of the County, separating it from Washington and Rensselaer Counties on the east and from War ren County to the north. T he Mohawk lliver separates the County from Albany and Schenectady Counties to the south . Other major rivers and streams in this watershed are Kayaderosseras C reek, Snook Kill, D waas Kill, Alplaus Kill, and Anthony Kill. Lakes are especially common in the County, with Nonvegelated Saratoga Lake, Round Lake, Galway Lake, and Ballston Lake being among the larger ones. The Great Sacandaga Lake behind the Conklingville dam is located in the Adirondack Park in the northwestern part of the County. T he Saratoga National Histor Aquatic Resources ical Park occurs in the eastern section. Most (88%) of Saratoga County is upland- forests, agricultural lands, and villages, with about 12 percent represented by aquatic resources (wetlands and wetlonds deepwater habitats). Wetlands occupy 42,800 acres of Saratoga County, amounting to 8 percent of the County. Vegetated wetlands predominate with Deepwater Habita ts almost 40,000 acres inventoried (93% percent of the wetlands). Forested wetlands are the most abundant type representing almost three-quarters of the County's wetlands, but emergent wetlands, ponds, and shrub swamps are also common. Only 118 acres of lacustrine wetlands and 3 acres of riverine wetlands were mapped. Deepwater Habitats· Narrow linear wetlands following hillside drainageways accounted fo r over 260 miles of habitat: 161 miles of forested wetlands, 57 miles of emergent wetlands, and 48 miles of shrub wetlands. Deepwater habitats represent 20,954 acres or 4 percent of the County. Most (74%) of these habitats are lakes and reservoirs, Lakes/Reservoirs with the remainder being rivers and streams. Saratoga County 115.458oc'8s) Rivers/Streams 15, 496 9 For other NWI map limitations, contact the U.S. Fish and W ildlife Ser ' Indudes 01 ,,_ ond lIfeom chormeIs, hoi ewcJude,; ~ vice's N\IVI Progra m (see Wetland Resourre Guide). wote. zone we!Iooos o/Iokes. 8 Why are Wetlands Worth Saving? WETLANDS SU PPLY NUMEROUS ECOLOGICAL, wetlands adjacent to streams and in depressions economic, and cultural benefits to local communi collect excess water. When the water table drops, ties, including water quality protection, flood con the water held in the wetland may slowly percolate trol, erosion control, fi sh and wildlife habitat, through the soil and evenrually into the aquifer, aquatic productivity, and opportunities for recrc replenishing groundwater. When streams are ation, aesthetic appreciation, and education. 1t must channelized and adjacent wetlands eliminated in be recognized that all wetlands are not alike in form the process of land development, stormwater or function. Differences in vegetation, soils, hydrol moves off the landscape more quickly, and ogy, landscape position (e.g., streamside, lakeside, groundwater recharge is diminished. Many or isolated), landform (e.g., depression, slope, or Saratoga County residents depend on groundwa flat), and other factors greatly influence \vctland ter aquifers fo r potable water. Wilton's Miller functions. Different parts of a single wetland may Swamp is the headwater of Bog Meadow Brook be performing different functions or at different which is a public water source for the C ity of levels than the rest of the wetland. While functions Saratoga Springs during droughts. Whether are performed by individual wetlands, it must be obtaining drinking water supply from groundwa recognized that each wetland works in combination ter or from reservoirs fed by surface waters, it is with other wetlands as part of a complex, integrat important for communities to protect the many ed hydrologic and ecological system. Consequently functions wetlands serve in maintaining water the value of the total wetland resources in a given quality. Since wetlands can improve water quality, watershed or region is greater than the sum of the they are not only being protected, but new ones values of individual wetlands. Any assessment of a are being constructed for stormwater management particular wetland must take this critical interrela or tertiary treatment of wastewater in many places tionship into account. across the country. The City of Saratoga Springs is building a wetland along Spring Run to help Water Quality and Source reduce water quality degradation from stormwater Protection and combined sewage overflow. Many wetlands are active points of ground One of the most important fu nctions of wetlands water discharge. Some are the sources of streams is their ability to help maintain good surface water and are aptly named "headwater wetlands." These quality in rivers, streams, and reservoirs and to wetlands provide a source of water important for improve degraded waters. Wetlands do this in sev aquatic life as well as faltered water for down eral ways, by removing and retaining nutrients, stream reservoirs. H eadwater wetlands of the processing chemical and organic wastes, and Kayaderosseros C reek watershed maintain water Letie (slren",sjd~) we/ reducing sediment loads to receiving waters. quality, quantity, and temperature required to sup- {and dominated by rice Wetlands are particularly good water ftlters. port onc of Saratoga County's best trout fi sheries. culgraSJ. Their position between upland areas and deep water allows wetlands to both intercept surface water runoff from land before it rcaches open watcr and help filter out nutrients, wastes, and sediments from flooding waters. These functions arc important in urban, suburban, and agricul tural areas. A 100- to ISO-foot vegetated buffer strip along a stream can significantly improve water quality in many areas. Wetlands upstream of reservoirs like Sto ny Creek Reservoir serve as important water ftlters, helping protect public water supplies. 1n some places, wetlands contribute to the recharge of groundwater sources for drinking water (e.g., floodplain wetlands along the Mohawk River). During periods of heavy runoff, such as major storms or snowmelt in the spring, W ETLANDS OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW Y ORK 9 Aerial view of Visdur Ferry floodplain wetlands along the Mohawk. River. (Note: On color infrared photos, grem vegetation appears red.) Flood Control ity of the sediment through binding soil with their Wetlands have often been referred to as "natural roots, dampen wave action by friction, and reduce sponges" that absorb flooding waters, yet they current velocity through fr iction. Lakeside and actually function more like "natural tubs," storing streamside wetlands are important shoreline stabi water that overflows riverbanks or collects in iso lizers, thereby preventing erosion of sediments lated depressions. This temporary water storage that could jeopardize important fish habitat and helps protect adjacent and downstream property water quality. Wetland plants are so effective at owners from flood damage. Trees and other wet stabilizing the soil that planting of wetland vege land plants also help slow the speed of flood tation is being used to control shoreline erosion in waters. This action combined with water storage many places across the country. Bioengineering allows wetlands to lower flood heights and reduce techniques (e.g., biodegradable mats with wetland the water's erosive force. Wetlands in and down plants) are preferable to structural erosion control stream of urban areas (e.g., Saratoga Lake and measures (e.g., rock rip-rap), especially from an Fish Creek wetlands) are especially valuable for environmental standpoint because they provide flood protection, since urban development habitat and aesthetic values while protecting the (impervious surfaces) increases the rate and vol shoreline. ume of surface water runoff, thereby increasing the risk of flood damage downstream. Upstream Aquatic Productivity floodplain wetlands are important too, since they serve to hold back water that would otherwise Wetlands are among the most productive natural flood low-lying development unwisely built on ecosystems in the world and some types of wet floodplains. In agricultural areas, upstream wet lands may be the highest, rivaling our best corn lands help reduce the likelihood of flood damage fields in biomass production. Many marshes pro to crops planted on floodplains. Wetlands along duce more than 10 tons of organic matter per acre Kayaderosseras Creek and Snook Kill temporarily every year. Wetlands can be regarded as the farm store flood waters and help lessen the number of lands of the aquatic environment since they pro destructive floods. duce great volumes of food (plant material) for aquatic organisms. Although direct grazing of Erosion Control and Shoreline most wetland plants is generally limited, their Stabilization major food value comes from dead leaves and stems that break down in the water to form small Located between rivers and high ground, many particles of organic material called "detritus." This wetlands are in a good position to buffer the land detritus serves as the principal fo od for many small against erosion. Wetland plants are most impor aquatic invertebrates and forage ftshes that are tant in this regard, since they increase the durabil- food for larger predatory fishes, such as pickerel, 10 CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT pike, walleye, bass, and trout. These larger fishes on wetlands for their survival. are, in turn, consumed by people. Thus, wetlands Most freshwater fishes feed in wetlands or Great blue heron. provide a source of food for people as well as for upon wetland-produced food and use wetlands as Wood dudu. aquatic animals. nursery grounds. Almost all important recreation Yellow warbler w ith al fishes spawn in the aquatic portions of wetlands. nestlillgs. Fish and Wildlife Habitat Northern pike, pickerel, and perch spawn in shal Spring peeper. low-water wetlands. Among the more significant Wetlands are critical habitats, providing food, spawning areas for these species in Saratoga water, cover, breeding grounds, or nursery areas for County are wetlands associated with the outlets of many species.10 Some wetland-dependent animals Saratoga Lake and Ballston Lake and the shore breed in wetlands and spend a considerable line of Round Lake. The Manning's Cove wetland amount of time in uplands, such as vernal pool complex of Saratoga Lake is vital to maintaining breeders (e.g., wood frogs, spring peepers, and one of the state's most productive warmwater fish 10 For desc riptions and spotted salamanders). Others like turtles live in eries. Walleye spawn in streams associated with iIlustrarions of wet· wetlands and waterbodies and nest in uplands. An the Kayaderosseras Creek watershed. Forested and la nd animals, consult i n SlnrchojSwamp estimated 43 percent of the nation's threatened shrub wetlands fringing mountain and lowland la nd Oisted under and endangered species rely directly or indirectly streams provide vital shade that cools and moder- Additianal R eadings}. WETLANDS OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW YORK 11 ates water temperatures, thereby increas Natural Products ing dissolved oxygen and protecting the aquatic habitat of important coldwater A wealth of natural products are derived from species such as rainbow, brown, and wetlands, including timber (lumber and fire brook trout. wood), fi sh and shellfish, wildlife, blueberri es, and A variety of birds are associated with peat moss. Wecland grasses have been cut for win Saratoga County wetlands, including ter livestock feed. During spring and summer, typical wetland species such as great blue livestock graze on grasses and other plants in some Beaver. herons, green herons, wood ducks, mallards, of Saratoga County's wet meadows. Freshwater Canada geese, and red-winged blackbirds, along fisheries in Saratoga Lake alone have an estimat with a large number of songbirds (e.g., ovenbird, ed value of $2.8 million. Hunting for waterfowl swamp sparrow, yellow warbler and yellowthroat) and wildlife also provides a source of recreation that feed, nest, and raise their young in these areas. and food for residents and visitors as well as rev A great blue heron rookery is located in beaver enue for local sporting goods stores. flowages in the outlet of Ballston Lake. Woodcock are often found in alder swamps where they feed Quality of Life on earthworms. W etlands in the White Oak Nature Area (Clifton Park) are managed for Outdoor recreational activities take place in and woodcock. Forested wetlands are habitat for around wetlands: fishing, hunting, bird watching, ruffed grouse and many other birds. Turkeys can nature photography, hiking, boating, ice skating, be seen eating sensitive fern, while downy and cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Many pileated woodpeckers can be heard searching for people simply enjoy the beauty and sounds of insects in wetland trees. nature and spend time walking on trails around Muskrat and beaver are the most familiar and through wetlands. ll Wetlands are great places aquatic mammals. Snowshoe hares and cottontail for outdoor study and gaining an appreciation of rabbits also frequent Saratoga's wetlands. White natural history and ecology by students of aU ages. tailed deer. a traditional upland game mammal, [n residential areas, wetlands often provide a pri 11 Consult Saratoga COllnty Wetlands seek out wetlands for food and shelter. H emlock vacy barrier between neighbors. Many times, Guidebook (1998) by swamps in the northern part of Saratoga County properties bordering wetlands have higher proper the Land Trust of thc are winter deer yards, crucial to deer survival. ty values than those that do not. Urban wetlands Sar.ltoga Region, Inc. Black bears also find refuge and food in forested are often among the few remaining pieces of "n at (Saratoga Springs, NY) for some recom and shrub swamps. Other mammals observed in ural habitat" providing residents with some sense mended sites to visit. wetlands include raccoon, coyote, and fox. of wildness and open space. Graud wet meadow in Stillwater. 12 How are Wetlands Changing? ABOVE Floodplain forested wel laud along the Hudson WETLANDS ARE SU BJ ECTED TO NATURAL impoundments, (6) direct or indirect discharge of River. processes as well as to pressures from land devel pollutants, including pesticides, herbicides and BELOW opment (human activities). These forces may other chemicals, sediment, domestic sewage, and Excavated weiland ill result in wetland alteration (destruction or cre agricultural wastes, and (7) introduction of exotic southeastern Saratoga ation of wetlands) and changes in wetland func species (e.g., E urasian water milfoil and zebra COUT/'Y· tions (e.g., damage the quality of remaining wet mussels in Saratoga lands), Natural conditions affecting wetlands Lake, water chestnut include ecological succession of one wetland type in Lake Lonely, and to another, erosion, droughts, fire, beavers, hurri purple loosestrife in canes, and other major storms. These changes many wetlands). tend to be relatively short-term-mostly changes Due to the signifi in vegetation patterns. H uman activities, however, cance of human tend to create more lasti ng effects, especially the actions on wetlands, loss and degradation of wetlands. Major human various levels of gov impacts to wetlands include: (1) filling for build ernment have estab ing construction, (2) excavating and channelizing lished mechanisms wetlands for navigation and flood conrrol projects, to protec( and (3) draining and clearing for agriculture, (4) pond r estore wetland construction, (5) damming for reservoirs and resources. WETLANDS OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW Y ORK 13 • How Are Wetlands Being Protected? WETLAND PROTECTION EFFORTS TYPI Acquisition of adjacent buffer areas are also cally involve acquisition, regulation, and restora important ro protecting wetland functions and tion. Public education is essential to increase aware values. A 300-foot vegetated buffer around wet ness and understanding of the natural functions lands and along streams may provide adequate provided by wetlands, including the protection of protection of wildlife habitat and help maintain local and regional water quality. An informed pub high-quality aquatic habitat. lic should be able to make the best choices regard Some examples of federal, state, and local ing natural resource utilization. Trained staff from government efforts to protect wetlands through numerous environmental agencies can provide acquisition include the following. Although aimed information and sometimes technical assistance to at preserving important historic sites, Saratoga local governments and community/environmental National H istorical Park contains numerous wet groups interested in developing local wetland pro lands. State parks and forests such as M oreau tection strategies (see Wetland Resource Guide). Lake State Park, Saratoga Spa State Park, and O ld Homestead State Forest protect many wet Wetland Acquisition lands from development. In 1977, the New York State Department of Transportation and the town Acquisition of wetlands and other aquatic of Clifton Park established the 4OO-acre Vischer resources is an effective way to protect declining Ferry Nature and Historic Preserve containing natural resources. A wetland can be protected by considerable floodplain wetland acreage along the direct purchase or by securing conservation ease Mohawk River. Saratoga County Reforestation ments (e.g., acquiring specific development Lands also include numerous wetlands. Some rights). Protected wetlands are often maintained communities have set aside wetlands as nature as wildlife refuges, sanctuaries, or conservation preserves such as Bog Meadow Brook Nature areas by government agencies and private conser Trail (Saratoga Springs), Veteran's Memo rial Park vation organizations (including land trusts). Stew (Clifton Park), and the Woods Hollow Nature ardship agreements between property owners and Preserve (Milton). Private land trusts, like the various agencies recognizing the many values of Land Trust of the Saratoga Region, have been wetlands can also promote wetland conservation. active wetland conservationists. Open waur-marsh complex along Alder Crr:ek, south of Lak~ Dt!so/atio71. 14 Wetland Regulation While acquisition is cri tical to protecting many wetlands, regulations that limit the effects of var ious activities on and adjacent to wetlands are also necessary to prevent degradation of natural resources and property. ]n the 19705 and 19805, the federal government and several eastern states, including New York, enacted laws to reg ulate activities that adversely affect wetlands. These laws, plus local wetland zoning ordi nances, provide government jurisdiction over certain uses of wetlands (e.g., filling, excavation, and impoundment) and require that permits be secured before engaging in such activities. For information on fed eral, state, and local regulato ry requirements, contact the appropriate resource agency (see Wetland Resource Guide). Through Section 404 of the federal Clean are more stringent (e.g., regulate activities affecting Albia Pond shrub bog Water Act, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers wetlands smaller than 12.4 acres). These smaller with heaver lodge (Corps) regulates the discharge of dredged or fill wetlands play critical roles in the local environment (Adirondack Park). material into waters of the United States, including (e .g., flood storage, streamflow maintenance, and wetlands. The U.S. Environmental Protection wildlife habitat), especially since most are part of a Agency (EPA) oversees this program given its larger network of wetlands. Local wetland protec mandate to protect and improve the quality of our tion can also be achieved by including specific wet nation's waters. Wetlands of virtually any size may land protection provisions in zoning, subdivision, be regulated if they meet certain regulatory criteria. or site plan review ordinances. The New York State Department of Envi ronmental Conservation (NYSDEC) primarily Wetland Restoration regulates activities in freshwater wetlands that are 12.4 acres or larger (plus smaller wetlands of During the past decade, there has been increasing unusual local importance) and an adjacent area interest in restoring natural communities. It seems a 1oo-foot "buffer" from the delineated boundary. that we have reached a point in our history where All wetlands regulated by New York State are we have developed a heightened sense of appreci shown on an official Freshwater Wetlands Map, ation of the natural world around us. Nature, once although boundaries may be modified based on viewed as an entity to be conquered and put into field inspections. These maps may be reviewed at cultivation, habitation, or other human use, is now NYSDEC Regional Offices and county and local regarded by many people as desirable in its own government offices, Pennits are required for activ right without human manipulation. Working ities including filling, draining, dredging, excava within the natural fabric of the land is becoming a tion, erection of structures, clearcutting, and dis standard building practice in many areas, but this charge of pollutants. philosophy needs to be more widely adopted. The Adirondack Park Agency (APA) admin Wetland restoration involves returning a wet isters the state's freshwater wetlands act within land to a place where one once existed or rehabil Park boundaries (i.e., the northwestern section of itating a damaged wetland. The first siruation Saratoga County). Jurisdictional wetlands include requires locating former wetland sites (e.g., agri wetlands of any size if associated with a perma cuI rural lands on drained hydric soils, filled areas nent water body or wetlands at least one acre in lacking any structures, impoundments not sup size if isolated. Regulatory wetland maps are not porting wetland vegetation, and excavated areas in available. Landowners are encouraged to contact existing wetlands). The goal of restoration in these the APA for a binding wetland determination or cases would be to re-establish a vegetated wetland information on regulated activities. of any kind at these sites. The second type of wet Because state regulations typically exclude land restoration involves repairing a significantly most small wetlands, municipalities in New York altered wetland (e.g., diked wetlands, partly State are encouraged to adopt local ordinances that drained wetlands, wetlands subject to excess sedi- WETLANDS OF SARATOGA COUNTY. NEW Y ORK 15 other natural habitats. For example, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Partners fo r Fish and Wildlife Program is devoted to providing techni cal assistance and financial support for restoring wetlands, grasslands, riparian (streamside) vegeta tioll, and endangered species habitat (e.g., Karner Blue butterfly habitat). The Partners Program has worked with the County Soil and Water Conser vation District on several wetland restoration proj ects. The U.S.D.A. Natural Resources Conserva tion Service also has programs to restore wetlands on farmland (Wetlands Reserve Program), to improve wildlife habitat (Wildlife H abitat Improvement Program), and to reduce nonpoint pollution in the suburbs (Backyard Conservation Program). If you are interested in restoring wet lands or other narural habitats, contact one of these agencies (see Wetland Resource Guide). Saratf?ga County Wetlands Initiative Samtoga Sp ringJ w d mentation, wetlands receivi ng leachate from a The Saratoga County Wetlands Initiative is a land invaded by purplt neighboring landfill, and wetlands invaded by cooperative interagency effort to promote wetland loomlrife· exotic or invasive species} to improve its functions protection in the County. Participating parties by restoring hydrology, native vegetation, or soil include the Land Trust of the Saratoga Region, quality, for example. Saratoga County Environmental Management Riparian habitat restoration typically requires Council, Saratoga County Soil and Water Con streambank revegetation to improve water quality servation District, Association of State Wetland and wildlife habitat. The U.S. EPA estimates that Managers, Adirondack Park Agency, N.Y. State 50- 70 percent of the nation's threatened or Department of Environmental Conservation, impaired surface waters are due to agricultural U.S.D.A. Natural Resources Conservation Ser nonpoint pollution, and 5-15 percent is attributed vice, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army to urban runoff. Both grassy and woody buffers Corps of Engineers, and U.S. Environmental Pro can help improve water quality by removing sedi tection Agency. Soil maps, National Wetlands ments and taking up excess nutrients from surt:'lce Inventory (NWI) maps, and revised state wetland runoff and groundwater. In general, the steeper maps were identified by the group as priority the slope, the wider the buffer needed. A buffer of information tools and these maps were subse l OG-ISO feet is generally acceptable for protecting quently prepared. They provide excellent guidance water quality and aquatic habitat. A 300-foot on the locations of wetlands that may be subject to buffer is recommended to maintain sufficient regulation. Two public workshops were held to habitat for wetland-dependent species and to pro familiarize county residents with these tools and tect areas designated as critical wildlife habitat. state and federal wetland permitting programs. Even larger buffers are suggested for some species. The County's Environmental Management To protect fish and wildlife species associated with Council is conducting a study of the Saratoga wetlands and other aquatic habitats, we need to Lake watershed to develop and implement plans think beyond the limits of these habitats and pro for maintaining water quality and recreational val vide adequate woody buffers and connections ues of the lake. Grant monies have been used to between suitable habitat areas. By maintaining support wetland outreach efforts such as produc and restoring vegetated buffers around wetlands ing a wetland guidebook of publically accessible and watcrbodies, we can greatly help conserve and wetlands, creating interpretative trails, working improve their biological integrity and critical with local schools on wetland activities, and initi functions. ating a volunteer wetland monitoring program. A Government programs exist to aid private tool kit for local planners to aid in wetland plan individuals interested in restoring wetlands and ning will soon be available. " Red maple !'Wamp What More Can Be Done to Conserve and with dcme Jcdgc Restore Wetlands? undergrowth. SARATOGA COUNTY HAS EXPERIENCED menr, we must examine ways to minimize adverse significant population growth in the last rwo impacts of soil erosion and stormwater runoff on decades and sllch growth will likely continue due to waterbodies as well as means of reducing the effects its proximity to Albany. From 1980 to 1990, the of this runoff, water diversions, and groundwater County's growth rate was 17.9 percent-the high withdrawals on existing wetlands. est rate in the State Capital District and third high Numerous oppornmities exist for citizens, 12 12 Source: SarafDgn CD""'} est statewide. With this growth comes increasing non-profit organizations, government agencies, Waln'l/xd futmion pressure on the region's natural resources. More and the business community to help accomplish Stud, (1996) prepared by development and impervious surfaces at the shared objectives with limited resources. Some nIl: Capital District expense of forests, nonregulated wedands, and strategies to improve the status of wetlands are Regional Planning Com mission. 214 Canal other natural areas wiU likely increase local flooding outlined below (for more ideas, consult Appendix Square:, Schenccl:tCi)" NY and demand for water. J n advance of such develop- A of In Search of Swampland). 123205 WETLANDS OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW YORK 17 • Scrutinize cost-benefit analyses and justifica tions for flood control projects that involve channelization of wetlands and watercourses. • Increase public awareness of wetland values and the status of wetlands through various media. Individual and Corporate Strategies • Maintain existing privately-owned wetlands as open space. • Seek non-wetland sites fo r development proj ects and avoid or minimize wetland and buffer impacts during project construction. • Donate wetlands or funds to purchase wetlands to private land trusts or public agencies. • Support wetland protection and restoration initiatives by government agencies and non profit conservation organizations. • Attend public meetings on wetlands and par ticipate in the decision-making process on the use of these natural resources. • Work with public agencies and others to restore previously degraded wetlands on your property. Open-canopiedflwted Government Strategies • Construct ponds and vernal pools in uplands wetlaml at outlet of and manage them to support wetland and Ball;/on Lalu. • Develop, implement, and promote a consistent aquatic species. public policy to identifY, protect and restore • Communicate the importance of wetland pro wetlands. tection to family members, friends, neighbors, • Ensure proper implementation of existing state company executives, and policy-making gov and federal statutes and local ordinances that ernment officials. protect wetlands through interagency coordi • Purchase federal and state duck stamps to sup nation, adequate staffing, training, and port wetland acquisition. enforcement capabilities. • Accelerate wetland restoration on public lands WETLANDS ARE AN IMPORTANT PART OF and on private lands with voluntary landowner our natural heritage they are the vital link support. between our land and water resources. Wetlands • Develop comprehensive master plans for cities help preserve the quality of drinking and recre and towns that include wetland conservation as ational waters and protect property from flooding, a major goal. while providing unique habitats for diverse flora • Consider techniques to improve local wetland and fauna. Extensive wetland acreage has been lost protection such as partnering with municipal and degraded in the Northeast making the programs for water quality/stormwater man remaining wetlands eve n more valuable. We need agement, green space, and recreation. to work towards preserving wetlands and their • Develop strategies and implement plans to functions and, wherever possible, restoring wet control the spread of invasive species. lands, streams, and their buffers. These goals can • Establish cost-sharing programs to support only be achieved through cooperation between acquisition of wetlands and associated buffers government, the business community, and private by land trusts. citizens. By working together to keep wetlands • Provide tax and other economic incentives to wet and wild, we can give future Saratoga County private landowners and industry to promote residents an inheritance of a priceless natural wetland preservation and restoration. resource. 18 - Wetland Resource Guide Additional Readings Wetland Inditato,'s: A Guide to Wetland JdC1l NYSD EC Region 55 tifitation, Delineation, Classifitation, H udson Street Extension To learn more about wetlands, visit your and Mapping (1999) by R. Tiner, Warrensburg, NY 12885 local community or coUege library and Lewis Publishers, eRC Press, 2000 (518) 623-3671 check out the following. Corporate Boulevard N W, Boca Adirondack Park Agency Raton, FL 33231; 561-994-0555. P.O. Box 99 Field Guide to Non/idal Wetland Identifica (textbook with indepth reviews of list Ray Brook, NY 12977 tiol1 (1988) by R. Tiner, reprinted by ed topics; 55 color plates) (518) 891-4050 the Institute for Wetland & Environ Wetlands (1994) by W. Niering, National Saratoga County Envi ronmental Manage mental Education & Research, P.O. Audubon Society Narure Guide, ment Council Box 288, Leverett, MA 01054; 413- Alfred A. Knopf, 1nc., New York, NY. Saratoga County Municipal Center 548-8866. (technical guidebook for (introduction to wetlands and field Ballston Spa, NY 12020 identifying wetland plants and hydric guide to wetland plants and animals; (5 18) 884-4705 soils; Northeast focus; includes 198 national focus; color plates) Soil and Water Conservation D istrict color plates) Wetlands (1993) by W . Mitsch and). Gos 50 West High Street Fwhwater Wetlands: A Guide /0 Common selink, Van Nostrand Reinhold, 115 Ballston Spa, NY 12020 bldimlor Plants of the Northeast (1981) Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10003. (518) 885-6900 by D. M agee, University of Massachu (textbook on wetland ecology) Wetland Restoration setts Press, P O. Box 429, Amherst, Wetlands: Charatt~ristitS and Boundari~s MA 01004; 413-545-2219. (technical (1995) by Committee on C haracteri U.S. F ish and Wildlife Service field guide to wetland plants; North zation of Wetlands, National Academy New York Field Office east focus) Press, 2101 Constitution Avenue NW, 3817 Luker Road Halldbook for Wetlands Conservation fllld Washington, DC 2041 8; 800-624- Cortland, NY 13045 S/lslaillability (1998) by K. Firehock, 6242. (reference book on wetland (607) 753-9334 L. G raff,). Middleton, K. Starinchak, delineation and related topics) U.S.D.A. Natural Resources Conservation and C. Williams, Save Our Streams Winter Guide to Woody Plants of Wetlands Service Program, lzaak Walton League of and Their Bord~rs: Northeastern United 50 West High Street America, 707 Conservation Lane, States (1997) by R. T iner, Institute for Ballston Spa, NY 12020 Gaithersburg, MD 20878-2983; 800- Wetland & Environmental Education (518) 885-6900 BUG-1WLA. (guide to protecti ng, & Research, P.o. Box 288, Leverett, restoring, and monitoring wetlands) MA 01054; 413-548-8866. (fidd Wetland Maps Tn Search of Swampland: A W(t/and SOIll'Ct guide to winter plant identification) Cornell Institute for Resource Information book 01111 Field Guide (1998) by R. Systems Tiner, Rutgers University Press , P.O. Resource Information Lab Box 5062, New Brunswick, NJ 08903; Wetland Contacts 302 Rice H all 732-445-1970. (layperson's guide [0 For additional informacion on wetlands, Ithaca, NY 14853 wetland ecology and wetland plant, also contact the following agencies: (607) 255-4864 hydric soil, and wetland animal identi NWI home page: wetlol1dsfws.gov fication; Northeast U.S. focus; includes Wetland Regulation and Policies Wetland Publications and Related 38 color plates) U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Our National Wetlflnd Hmtage: A Protetfi(m Information Albany Field Office Guide (1996) by). Kusler and T. Regulatory Branch U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Opheim , Environmental Law Insti 1 Bond Street Ecological Services (NWl) tute, 1616 P Street NW, Suite 200, Troy, NY 12180 300 Westgate Center Drive Washington, DC 20036; 202-939- (5 18) 270-0588 H adley, MA 01035 3800. (guide to wetland protection U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (413) 253-8616 strategies for local governments) Region 11 EPA W etland Protection H otline Saratoga County Wetlands Guidebook (1998 ) Wetlands Pro tection 1-800-832-7828 by rhe Land Trust of the Saratoga 290 Broadway httpJ/www.epa.gov/OWOW/ Region, lnc., 11 0 Spring Street, New York, NY 10007-1866 wetlandslwet/in e. htm I Saratoga Springs, NY 12866; phone (212) 637-3801 Vernal Pool Information Website 518-584-9934 (list/description of pub New York State D epartment of Environ http://eorth.simmoTlS.edulv~nlallpool lically accessible wetlands to explore in mental Conservation Ivenlal.html the cou nty) Wetlands Program 50 Wolf Road Albany, NY 12233-4756 (518) 457-0698 W ETLANDS OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW YORK 19 • • - - - •• - • .- - • • - - ,