Middle Line Woods Preserve Chilmark,

Management Plan

December 14, 2017

Approved by the Chilmark Town Advisory Board () Approved by the Martha’s Vineyard Land Bank Commission () Approved by the Secretary of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs ()

Julie Russell – Ecologist Maureen McManus Hill – Administrative Assistant Ian Peach – Superintendent

Executive Summary

Middle Line Woods Preserve comprises 54.3 acres of woodland located along the Middle Line Road in Chilmark, Massachusetts. A mixed-deciduous woodland dominates the preserve. Large boulders and stately American holly trees punctuate the middle ridge that runs north-south through the preserve. Spindly sassafras saplings congregate in groves in the understory of scattered spreading , maple and beech trees, suggesting a pastoral time gone by.

The property is named for the “Middle Line” that separated property owned by the Wampanoags and European settlers. The preserve is in close proximity to four land bank properties: Peaked Hill Reservation to the southwest; Great Rock Bight Preserve to the north; and Tea Lane Farm and Middle Ridge Preserve to the east.

The Martha’s Vineyard Land Bank Commission purchased, in fee simple, the 54.3 acres of Middle Line Woods Preserve as follows: 20.3 acres from Murrray Lerner on August 16, 1999 for $475,000; 27 acres from Shirley Wilcox on October 6, 1999 for $631,775; and 7 acres from Deborah Peckham et al. on June 28, 2017 for $668,400.

Two Massachusetts-listed wildlife species – imperial (Eacles imperialis) and sp. 1 (Zale lunifera) – were recorded during surveys on the preserve. There are no commonwealth-listed plant species known to occur on the preserve.

This management plan proposes relocating approximately 1000 feet of existing trail comprising a portion of trail utilizing Middle Line Road and a portion of the old clay pit road. The plan also proposes clearing 2.3 acres of sweet pepperbush shrubland in the mesic deciduous woodland to create a rich meadow in the lowland north of the ridgeline. In addition, the plan proposes to continue to maintain the 1.07 miles of existing trails, 4-vehicle trailhead, signs and long-distance views; allow hunting of deer, turkey, pheasant and racoon, to survey, remove and control invasive exotic species; and to survey and manage rare species.

All planning goals, objectives and strategies are outlined in detail in the final section of this management plan. To be implemented, this plan must be presented at a public hearing and approved by the land bank’s Chilmark town advisory board, the Martha’s Vineyard land bank commission and the secretary of the executive office of energy and environmental affairs (EOEEA). Additionally, a notice of intent and Massachusetts endangered species act (MESA) review will be filed with the Chilmark conservation commission and Massachusetts natural heritage and endangered species program (MA-NHESP) for activity proposed in estimated and priority habitat for rare species and activities proposed in and around wetland resource areas.

About the authors Julie Russell is the primary author and has been the land bank ecologist since August 1999. She is certified as a Wildlife Biologist by the Wildlife Society and holds a Master of Science in zoology from the Cooperative Wildlife Research Lab at Southern Illinois

University, Carbondale, and a Bachelor of Science in wildlife biology from the School of Natural Resources at the University of Vermont. Superintendent Ian Peach attended Middlebury College and graduated with a Bachelors of Arts and has a Master of Landscape Architecture from Cornell University. Maureen McManus-Hill has been the administrative assistant since July of 2006 and has a Bachelor of Arts in economics from Lafayette College.

MIDDLE LINE WOODS PRESERVE MANAGEMENT PLAN

Table of Contents I. Natural Resource Inventory ...... 6 A. Physical Characteristics...... 6 1. Locus ...... 6 2. Survey Maps, Deeds and Preliminary Management Plan Goals ...... 6 3. Geology and Soils...... 6 4. Topography ...... 7 5. Hydrology ...... 7 6. Ecological Processes ...... 7 B. Biological Characteristics ...... 10 1. Vegetation ...... 10 2. Wildlife Habitat ...... 10 C. Cultural Characteristics ...... 12 1. Land History ...... 12 2. Planning Concerns ...... 13 3. Abutters ...... 14 4. Existing Use and Infrastructure ...... 14 II. Inventory Analysis ...... 14 A. Constraints & Issues ...... 15 1. Ecological Context ...... 15 2. Natural and Cultural Resource Concerns ...... 15 3. Sociological Context ...... 15 4. Neighborhood Concerns ...... 16 B. Addressing Problems and Opportunities ...... 16 1. Land Bank Mandate ...... 16 2. Goals at Purchase ...... 16 3. Opportunities ...... 17 4. Universal Access (UA) ...... 18 III. Land Management Planning ...... 18 A. Nature Conservation ...... 18 B. Recreation and Aesthetics ...... 20 C. Natural Products...... 22 D. Communitiy Interactions ...... 22 E. Land Administration ...... 24 IV. Literature Cited ...... 26 Appendix A. Locus, Topography and Site Management Maps ...... 28 Appendix B. Surveys, Deeds and Preliminary Management Plan Goals ...... 34 Appendix C: Soils Maps and Descriptions ...... 58 Appendix D: Vegetation ...... 58 Appendix E. Wildlife ...... 63 Appendix F. Avian Checklist and Seasonal Tables ...... 69 Appendix G. Endangered Species ...... 73 Appendix H. Abutters ...... 74 Appendix I. Universal Access ...... 76

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I. Natural Resource Inventory

A. Physical Characteristics 1. Locus Middle Line Woods Preserve is located at roughly 4122' 12.68'' N latitude and 70 43’ 40.99'' W longitude. The property consists of 54.3 acres fronting on Middle Line Road in Chilmark. The preserve is shown on Chilmark tax map 13 as parcels 33, 34, 42.4 and 42-trail lot. A Locus Map (USGS Topo 1973 1:24,000) follows as Appendix A. 2. Survey Maps, Deeds and Preliminary Management Plan Goals Larger copies of all surveys are on file at the land bank office and are available for inspection by appointment. Deeds, preliminary management plan goals and reduced copies of surveys are included in Appendix B. 3. Geology and Soils The General Soils Map (Appendix C) depicts general classes of soils across Martha’s Vineyard. The property occurs in the “Gay Head Moraine” geologic deposits (Soil Conservation Service (SCS) 1986). The Gay Head Moraine comprises “folded faulted order Pleistocene deposits and coastal plain sand silt and clay of Creaceous and Tertiary Age” (SCS 1986). The mesic woodlands are supported by a layer of pre-glacial and glacial clay that lies in relative close distance from the surface in certain parts of the moraine.

The general soil type for this area is Eastchop-Chilmark-Nantucket. It is typically identified as very deep, excessively drained sandy soils. This broad soil type covers approximately 27% of Dukes County, is often found in woodland areas; has a nearly level to moderately steep topography; and, in general, is not suitable for homesite and agriculture use due to low available water capacity, instability and susceptibility to ground water pollution (SCS 1986).

The SCS (1986) mapped three soil series – Eastchop loamy sand (EcC, EcD, EdB, EdC, EdD), Haven very fine sandy loam (HaA) and Nantucket sandy loam (NaB) – on the preserve. The dominant soil series is Eastchop loamy sand. The Eastchop soils are most often wooded and are not suitable for cultivation dur to slope, stones and low water availability (SCS 1986). They are discussed in Appendix C following a detailed Soils Map.

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4. Topography Elevations at Middle Line Woods Preserve are variable and range from 160 feet above sea level in the lowlands along Tabor House Road to 240 feet above sea level along the ridge. The ridge runs northeast-southwest and roughly follows North Road. The contours of the property are illustrated in a portion of the USGS Squibnocket quadrangle labeled USGS Topographic Maps in Appendix A. 5. Hydrology The majority of Middle Line Woods Preserve is in an undefined watershed to the north while the southeast corner of the preserve is included in the Tisbury Great Pond watershed, which comprises approximately 11,762 acres. One small wetland resource area occurs on the western border of the preserve along the Tabor House Road. It is isolated land subject to flooding dominated by highbush blueberry. Additionally, the preserve it is bordered by the headwaters of Roaring Brook to the west, the headwaters of the Tiasquam River to the south, and an unnamed stream to the north. 6. Ecological Processes Ecological processes are the “dynamic biogeochemical interactions that occur among and between biotic and abiotic components of the biosphere” as described by the USGS (2012). There are seven major ecological processes – disturbance, structural complexity, hydrological patterns, nutrient cycling, biotic interactions, population dynamics and genetic diversity – occurring on the preserve.

- Disturbance – The natural disturbance regime for northeastern deciduous woodlands typically includes fire, wind and damage. Fire is a less frequent means of natural disturbance, as fire suppression is an active part of forest management. Wind remains an active force of nature, especially along the coast-facing northeast. Recent insect damage to oak species in the form of winter and gypsy and cynipid gall wasps has successfully altered the woodlands of various areas of Martha’s Vineyard. The woodland on the preserve was not significantly affected by these primarily because the diversity of deciduous trees on the preserve. Areas where have died has resulted in an open canopy with dense understory vegetation and early successional stands of sassafras sapling, due to their root suckering capabilities.

Human induced disturbance in the form of historic land clearing in the upland

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habitats has resulted in opportunities for different stages of the community to prosper over time. There are two American beech groves on the preserve. The presence of beech groves indicates that portions of the woodland are succeeding into the next stage of succession. It takes many centuries to change species composition of certain types of woodlands (Kricher and Morrison 1988). A change must occur that alters the physical environment of the woodland in a way that is not optimal for oaks to persist, in order to transform the mixed-oak woodland into the next climax stage in succession; a disturbance such as fire or cutting must occur to regress the mixed-oak woodland into a pioneer or secondary successional community (Kimmins 1987). The American beech is an extremely shade-tolerant tree that grows well under the canopy of oak trees. Beech trees typically reproduce by root sprout. Very little to no vegetation occurs in the understory of beech groves due to the deep shade, acidic soils and surface-feeding roots. Beech groves persist and replace oak woodlands. Fire is the only weapon oak trees have against the American beech, as it is fire-sensitive and will not sprout from burned stumps (Jorgensen 1978).

- Structural complexity – The preserve has a complex structure of plant species ranging from low-growing herbaceous plants to taller woodland trees that allows the preserve to accommodate more species by providing a more diverse array of habitats for species to survive in. The woodland has great structural complexity and includes ground-cover vegetation such as wintergreen and mosses; low growing shrubs and herbs such as low-bush blueberry and goldenrods; taller shrubs such as sweet pepperbush, highbush blueberry and arrowwood; and various tree species including snags that, when leaning or fallen, add to the structural complexity of the woodland. The areas of open canopy due to tree die-off are opportunities to mow the shrub layer and promote a diverse low-growing community of herbs and grasses. Allowing dead trees to exist; creating uneven patterns of mowing; and cutting of vegetation all contribute to spatial complexity (USGS 2012).

- Hydrological patterns – It is important to consider the impact of the vegetation communities on the water cycle in an ecosystem. Vegetation layers help catch water and aid in soil infiltration whereas larger-scale cleared woodlands and various heterogeneous agricultural practices can result in increased overland flow, channel incision and fragmentation of wetland habitats (USGS 2012). Past clearing of the area in the late 18th century likely resulted in soil erosion and a greater water yield in the surrounding wetlands due to reduced interception, evaporation and transpiration. Maintaining vegetative buffers

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around wetland habitats and maintaining a diverse structural ecosystem help protect the hydrological patterns of the ecosystem (USGS 2012).

- Nutrient cycling – Important elements such as nitrogen, phosphorous and carbon naturally travel through ecosystems and when combined with water and sunlight determine the productivity of an ecosystem (USGS 2012). Activities that increase (use of fertilizers) or decrease (erosion) nutrients can alter the nutrient cycle and change the ecological integrity of the ecosystem. Protecting soils from erosion by reducing exposure through vegetative cover and keeping snags and downed logs helps maintain the nutrient richness in the ecosystem.

Additionally, human-enhancing and -depleting nutrient practices each lead to increased invasion of opportunistic non-native plants that have different nutrient cycling characteristics and as a result alter the nutrient cycling of the invaded ecosystem (USGS 2012). Following any woodland understory mowing by native plantings and seed distribution will ensure that a native vegetative cover will have the advantage over establishing invasive exotic plants.

- Biotic interactions – The distribution and abundance of species is heavily dependent on the interactions among organisms such as competition for resources, predation, parasitism and mutualism (USGS 2012). Disturbances such as introduction of exotic species, over-collection of a species and disease not only affect the “target species” but have a trickle-down effect that depends on the nature and strength of interactions that the “target species” had within its community (USGS 2012). Pollinators and exotic plants play both positive and negative roles, respectively, in biotic interactions of an ecosystem. Spraying pesticides and introducing exotic pollinators can impact other non- target pollinators sometimes resulting in a major decrease in species diversity of plants that are reproductively dependent on native pollinators. Protecting species with high community importance values such as scrub oak; removing exotic species before they have aggressively invaded; and implementing elastic management strategies that are modified in response to monitoring are all strategies that can reduce effects on biotic interactions.

- Population dynamics – The loss of a species can have many unseen effects on a community depending on the interactions that the species had in its environment. Species dispersion, recruitment, fertility and mortality compose a species’ population dynamics and, along with genetic diversity, play an important role in the success of a species (USGS 2012). Small populations isolated by reduced habitat or habitat fragmentation are vulnerable to

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extinction, locally and globally. Other species are more widespread but occur in few numbers and are vulnerable due to low genetic diversity. Ecosystems are not static and species require genetic diversity to adapt to their ever- changing world or risk extinction. Special care must be taken to consider the effects management actions may have on the rare moth species known to occur on the preserve.

B. Biological Characteristics 1. Vegetation

Middle Line Woods Preserve comprises two general habitat communities – mixed-deciduous woodland and highbush blueberry shrub swamp. They are described in detail and shown on the Ecological Communities Maps in Appendix D. The mixed deciduous woodland is divided on the preserve by topography into a lowland and upland woodland.

A total of 53 plant species is known to occur on Middle Line Woods Preserve (Table 1, Appendix D). The woodland is the dominant vegetation cover type and contributes the greatest to the richness of the species on the preserve. Species richness is the number of species present in a community (Begon et al. 1990). Species richness measured in both 1999 and 2017 surveys was similar.

No commonwealth-listed plant species are known to occur on the preserve. Black locust is the only exotic invasive plant known to occur on the preserve. 2. Wildlife Habitat

Formal avian surveys and invertebrate black-light traps were the primary tools used for analysis of rare wildlife habitat. Additional direct observations of wildlife occurrences and signs throughout the year contribute to the understanding of the habitat value of the preserve. Two Massachusetts-listed wildlife species – Imperial moth and Zale species 1. – were recorded during surveys and direct observations of wildlife on the preserve.

(a) Invertebrates

Moth Species: A total of 168 moth species representing 10 families was identified from nocturnal black-light traps set in the woodland in June,

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July, August and September of 2016 (Appendix E, Table 2). The moderately open canopy oak woodland is a draw to various upland moth species as these habitats provide forage, breeding habitat and cover.

Butterfly Species: Two butterfly species were observed throughout the preserve in the spring and early summer (Appendix E, Table 3).

Other Invertebrates: Direct observations of invertebrates on the preserve revealed additional species including bees, ticks, flies and mosquitoes (Appendix E, Table 3).

(b) Amphibians, Reptiles and Fish

The spring peepers are heard chorusing on the preserve in the shrub swamp along Tabor House Road. A garter snake was observed on the preserve sunning on the trail in 2017.

(c) Birds

Avian 5-minute point count surveys were conducted on Middle Line Woods Preserve during spring and fall migration, the summer breeding season and the winter in 2000 and during summer breeding and fall migration in 2016. Thirty-two bird species were observed on this property during diurnal avian point count surveys. Additionally, land bank staff performed owl surveys of the preserve during mid-March in 2000 and during the first week in July in 2016 using a wildlife caller and playback-calls of 8 local owls; eastern screech owls were heard during both survey periods. American woodcocks were heard in close proximity to the preserve during non-survey periods. Detailed tables and descriptive summaries of the avian fauna on the preserve are included in Appendix F.

(d) Mammals

Three common mammal species or signs thereof were observed on Middle Line Woods Preserve (Appendix E, Table 3). White-tailed deer were observed most often during the spring and fall; deer tracks were observed throughout the year on the preserve. Skunk borrows in hollows at the base of trees and evidence of grey squirrel nests in the tree canopy were observed on the Preserve.

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(e) Rare and Endangered Species

The Massachusetts natural heritage and endangered species program (MA NHESP) designates that no portion of the preserve is in priority or estimated habitat for rare species. The commonwealth-listed Lepidoptera species observed on the preserve require pitch pine/scrub oak barrens; they, however, may utilize the oak species on the preserve. Details about the various species and a copy of the Endangered Species Maps are located in Appendix G.

C. Cultural Characteristics 1. Land History Prior to Chilmark settlement by Europeans the area was included with Aquinnah and Gosnold under the leadership of the sachem Aguiniuh. During the Contact Period between 1500 and 1620 a considerable population of Wampanoags likely concentrated in the southern areas of Chilmark and Aquinnah near the coastal ponds. The 1765 census estimated that 188 Wampanoags lived in the southern portion of Chilmark and that the northern portion was not settled (MHC 1984). The only formal trail reported for this time period was an east/west trail that connected the north side of Chilmark Pond with Takemmy and Nashowakemmuck to the northeast.

The preserve is named after the “Middle Line” that was used to define the boundaries of land owned by Towtoe and others and land purchased by Thomas Mayhew (Banks 1911). In a later agreement between the Wampanoags and Mr. Mayhew’s son, Mathew Mayhew, the line was described as the “line drawn straight from a great Rock standing by takemie bound to the middle of a line drawn across the island and so to the pond: said line to be drawn across as near the said pond as may be called Monamesha pond” (Banks 1911). The “great Rock” in this agreement refers to Waskosim’s Rock. The Wampanoag natives owned the land to the north of this line and the Mayhews owned the land to the south. An intermittent stonewall defines the line from Waskosim’s Rock as far as Peaked Hill, where is forms much of the northern border of the Peaked Hill Reservation. The stonewall along Middle Line Road deviates from the survey line as it meanders through obstacles. Middle Line Road serves as the southwestern boundary of Middle Line Woods Preserve.

During the Colonial Period (1675-1775) an industrial movement began in northern

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Chilmark in the general area where the preserve is situated. Although northern Chilmark was not settled at this time it was a mecca for economic growth derived from natural resources: iron ore was mined from the wetland bogs; the major streams were used to power fulling and grist mills; peat was harvested and sold as fuel; kaolin was mined to make clay china. In 1704, the woodlands south along the “Middle Line” were divided among so-called proprietors into 15-acre “woodland Lots” (Banks 1911). Historic maps of Chilmark in 1780 depict northern Chilmark void of houses (Des Barres “Atlantic Neptune” 1780). Large tracts of land owned by a few families resulted in the houses being situated closer to the meeting house and the main road to down island. The balance of the land was either slated for industry or, later, pasture once all the trees were cut. For many years during the 1700’s deeds referred to the preserve as a woodlot. Later in the 19th century, clay was mined for bricks. The first brickyard was situated on Roaring Brook in 1836 and was owned by Smith and Borrows (Banks 1911). In 1867, Nathaniel Harris purchased the brickyard and many acres of surrounding land plus mineral rights, included the preserve. Eventually the brickyard failed due to lack of trees for fuel to fire the ovens to cure the bricks. It is very likely that the preserve was deforested with the exception of a few oak trees and the American holly trees.

The old footpath that bisects the preserve connects to the Holman Road ancient way. The Harris family began maintaining the old footpath on the preserve in the mid-1800’s. The roads were used to transport raw clay from areas where the Harris family held mineral rights to the north shore to be shipped off-island or used in the Boston Fire Brick and Clay Retort Manufacturing Company brickworks owned by the Harris family (Harris 2004). 2. Planning Concerns

(a) Massachusetts Endangered Species Act: No management activity proposed in this management plan is within the boundaries of priority habitat for rare species (NHESP Map, Appendix G). The relocation of existing trails and creation of an open meadow will not impact the specific habitat requirements of the commonwealth-listed moth species observed on the preserve during surveys.

(b) Wetland Protection Act: The small blueberry-dominated shrub swamp along Tabor House Road is considered a “wetland resource area” under the Massachusetts wetlands protection act. Additionally, there is a fire pond and shrub swamp located off property to the north of the preserve. The wetland resources area and

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100-foot buffer zone around the wetland resource areas and bordering vegetated wetland is subject to the jurisdiction of the Chilmark conservation commission. There are no proposed activities within the resource area and buffer zone of the mesic woodland that the land bank is proposing to undertake at this time.

3. Abutters A list of those owning land abutting or within 200 feet of the Middle Line Woods Preserve appears in Appendix H (Table 8), as does the Chilmark Assessors Map 13.

4. Existing Use and Infrastructure The Existing Use map identifies 12 significant locations or features on the property. An explanation for each is as follows:

1. Entrance off Middle Line Road, trailhead and sign station: The entrance to the preserve is located approximately 500 feet off Tabor House Road. A trailhead is located approximately 100 feet from the entrance. The trailhead can accommodate approximately 4 vehicles and is large enough for a maximum of two horse trailers. A sign station at the start of the trail system includes a map of the preserve and connecting trail systems as well as property rules and notices.

2. Existing Trails: There is approximately one mile of existing trail on the preserve including a loop trail with views to the north and an ancient cartpath that acts as a through trail connecting the trailhead to Holman Road.

3. Stonewalls: An extensive stonewall runs along Middle Line Road and creates the southwestern boundary of the preserve. A sporadic stonewall runs along the northeastern boundary of the preserve along a ridge.

II. Inventory Analysis

In this section, problems and opportunities that may arise in the management of Middle Line Woods Preserve are analyzed.

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A. Constraints & Issues 1. Ecological Context

The preserve is linked to existing conservation land in all directions via trail easements creating an extensive system of trails.

2. Natural and Cultural Resource Concerns There are three main areas of concern at Middle Line Woods Preserve, each briefly addressed below and then addressed in more detail in the land management section of the plan:

(a) Commonwealth-listed rare species Two Massachusetts-listed wildlife species – Imperial moth and Zale species 1 – were recorded during surveys on the preserve. The preserve provides general upland habitat requirements for these moth species. However, specific habitat requirements are either not present or are sparse. The plan proposes to use existing trails where possible and to site new trails and create the 2-acre meadow to avoid impact to specific habitat requirements of the above mentioned rare moth species.

(b) Erosion There is significant topography on the preserve. Continuing to explore new management techniques to control erosion on the existing trails will minimize erosion on the preserve.

(c) Invasive Species Invasive species are a concern on any property. Annual monitoring and quick control and removal of invasive species are important to maintain an ecological balance and the integrity of habitats on the preserve.

3. Sociological Context

Middle Line Woods Preserve is located in Chilmark between Middle Line Road and Tabor House Road. It is connected via trail easements to Tea Lane Farm (Martha’s Vineyard Land Bank, MVLB), Great Rock Bight Preserve (MVLB), Peaked Hill Reservation (MVLB), Middle Ridge Preserve (MVLB), Fulling Mill Brook Preserve (MVLB), Ocean View Farm Preserve (MVLB) and Middle Road Sanctuary (Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation).

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4. Neighborhood Concerns

The land bank considers the concerns of neighbors as part of the planning process. All abutting property owners and the local conservation commission are sent written notice of a public hearing on the draft plan. All neighbors -- and all members of the public -- are invited to review the draft plan, attend the public hearing and make written or oral comments. The land bank's Chilmark town advisory board and the Martha’s Vineyard land bank commission review all comments and can change the draft plan if desired. Anyone may also express concerns at any public meeting of the Martha’s Vineyard land bank commission and Chilmark town advisory board, or may simply contact land bank staff.

No planning concerns have been brought to the attention of the land bank by neighbors.

B. Addressing Problems and Opportunities 1. Land Bank Mandate

In 1986, the voters of Martha’s Vineyard created the land bank to acquire, hold, and manage land in a predominantly natural, scenic, or open condition. The land bank keeps open space open and allows modest public use. Its “shared- use” policy strives to provide a range of public benefits, from low-impact recreation and aesthetics to wildlife conservation and watershed protection. Protection of natural resources is the land bank’s highest priority, yet “shared- use” demands balancing the public use of natural resources with protection of the same.

2. Goals at Purchase

The purchase of Middle Line Woods Preserve protects six of the land bank's nine criteria for property acquisition: forest land conservation; wildlife habitat protection; wetlands protection; easements for trails and for publicly owned lands; scenic vistas; and sites for passive recreation. Preliminary management plans were adopted by the land bank commission and Chilmark advisory board and are attached as Appendix B.

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3. Opportunities Middle Line Wood Preserve offers a number of opportunities for use of the preserve. They are as follows:

a.) Access: The existing access for four vehicles at Middle Line Woods Preserve is located off Middle Line Road in Chilmark. The trailhead was designed to accommodate the parking and maneuverability of two horse trailers.

b.) Trails: Approximately 1 mile of existing trails provides a loop trail through the preserve and connector trails to Holman Road. A proposed trail on the preserve along Middle Line Road will relocate the trail from the road to the inside of the stonewall.

c.) Views: The preserve offers existing long-distance views of the Vineyard Sound and Elizabeth Islands.

d.) Open Meadow: Various areas in the woodland have a thin tree cover or the overstory trees have died, both resulting in a dense shrub understory in these areas. One such area, nestled between a stonewall and off-premises wetlands to the north and the Middle Road ridge, provides an opportunity to mow the dominant sweet pepperbush (Clethra alnifolia) and create a rich 2-acre meadow. Native seeds and plugs planted in the meadow would add diversity to the preserve. Annual mowing or grazing would help maintain the proposed meadow in an open canopy state.

e.) Hunting: Deer range on the preserve; approximately 60% of the preserve is huntable and outside the 500-foot no-hunting zone from occupied dwellings and 150-foot no hunting zone from a road.

f.) Horseback riding and bicycling: Bicycle and horseback riding are possible on the preserve. However, some off-premises trail easements leading to nearby conservation land contain boardwalks that are not appropriate for this activity.

g.) Bird-watching: The preserve offers opportunities for viewing woodland species of birds as well as edge and shrubland species of birds.

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h.) Silviculture: Portions of the preserve are suitable to long-term woodlot management for fuel and timber. Limitations include wetland soil, road access, markets, topography and short-term conflicts with other goals. Low-impact harvesting equipment and harvest planning that takes nature conservation objectives into consideration could mitigate potential negative impacts.

4. Universal Access (UA)

Middle Line Woods Preserve presents limited opportunities for universal access due to the topography on the preserve. The preserve’s ROS (‘Recreation Opportunities Spectrum’) classification is “less-developed.” However, a portion of the trail system including the old clay pit road, Holman Road and the trail along Middle Line Road is flat and could be designated as a loop trail for those individuals with somewhat restricted abilities. Further details are included in Appendix I.

III. Land Management Planning This final section of the management plan states goals for Middle Line Woods Preserve and outlines strategies for achieving them. These goals and strategies are designed to fit within the social and ecological constraints defined previously. The plan addresses five areas of planning concern: nature conservation; recreation and aesthetics; natural products; community interaction; and land administration.

A. Nature Conservation Provide long-term protection for plants, and natural processes occurring at Middle Line Woods Preserve.

Objective 1: Protect and encourage rare and endangered species on the preserve. Strategies: a. Monitor the property for rare plants and animals during regular property checks. b. Develop and implement a strategy to protect any additional rare species observed on the property. c. Report new observations of rare and endangered species to the proper commonwealth authority.

d. Reroute or close trails in the event that the recreational use interferes

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with a rare species.

e. Promote existing rare moth habitat by utilizing existing trails as much as possible and siting new trails and clearings in such a way as to avoid cutting pitch pine and scrub oak.

f. Consider predator control, if advised, for protecting federal- and Massachusetts-listed species.

Objective 2: Reduce and control erosion of trails. Strategies: a. Reroute or temporarily close any trail where necessary.

b. Install water bars and switch-backs where necessary.

c. Cover trails with tailings and woodchips as needed to manage erosion issues and prevent further surface soil erosion

d. Prohibit use of motorized vehicles such as dirt bikes and all-terrain vehicles on the trail system

Objective 3: Protect the value of the preserve as migratory and breeding habitat for avian and other wildlife species. Strategies: a. Retain snags in woodland where these trees do not pose unacceptable safety or fire hazard.

b. Monitor changes in vegetation cover during regular property checks and by updating ecological inventory in 2027.

Objective 4: Monitor for and control the spread of invasive species. Strategies: a. Cut or uproot invasive species as they are observed.

b. Monitor for re-growth and continue to manage invasive plants.

c. Explore other control methods and implement with permission of the MVLBC if physical control methods fail.

Objective 5: Reduce forest fire danger on the preserve.

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Strategies: a. Prohibit open camp fires on the preserve.

b. Work with a forester to create a forest management plan to reduce ladder fuels in the woodland.

Objective 6: Diversify the existing ecological communities on the preserve to provide habitat for additional species. Strategies: a. Create a 2-acre meadow as depicted on the Proposed Project Map a. Remove snags and young saplings. b. Retain large spreading specimen trees. c. Mow sweet pepperbush understory and till if necessary. d. Re-seed and plant plugs of native wet meadow plants, preferable from native island seed stock. e. Maintain a dense layer of shrubs around the clearing to promote American woodcock habitat.

b. Monitor and remove invasive plants as they are discovered.

c. Mow meadow annually in the early spring or pasture livestock to control woody growth in fields during the growing season (as necessary).

B. Recreation and Aesthetics

Allow limited, low-impact recreational use of the area for hiking, bicycling, horseback-riding and picnicking; and maintain attractive views and landscapes provided that these uses do not preclude attainment of nature conservation objectives.

Objective 1: Maintain the property open for low-impact recreation. Strategies: a. Open the property for hiking, non-motorized biking, horseback-riding and other passive uses.

b. Utilize existing trails and install new trail(s) where appropriate (see Proposed Project Map).

c. Allow picnicking and maintain a “carry in-carry out” policy for litter.

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d. Monitor impact of passive recreational use on the preserve annually and manage accordingly.

Objective 2: Maintain four-vehicle trailhead off Middle Line Road (see Proposed Project Map). Strategies: a. Maintain surface of trailhead and add material to control erosion as necessary. b. Maintain and update sign station, as needed, designating the appropriate uses and rules of the preserve.

Objective 3: Manage existing trail system and create new trails as shown on the Proposed Project Map. Strategies: a. Create new trails as shown on the Proposed Project Map: i. create ±1645 linear feet of new trail; ii. make trail corridors six to eight feet wide and eight feet tall when possible, with the exception of existing old roads which may be maintained at their present width; iii. free trails of rocks, roots and other obstacles where practical; iv. install erosion control measures where needed; v. mark trails with colored markers or directional signs if needed; vi. site trails so that they are as unobtrusive as possible to nearby homes and sensitive wildlife habitat; vii. site trails so that they connect, as well as possible, to other conservation land, ancient ways and trail easements.

b. Screen views of houses as necessary from trails and view-points using native vegetation. c. Minimize need for signs by siting trails appropriately. d. Allow land bank staff discretion to close or relocate trails or add new trails, such as spur trails for off-property trail connections. e. Allow multiple uses of trails where appropriate by hikers, Nordic skiers, horseback-riders and bicyclists. f. Use brush or temporary fences to close unauthorized or relocated trails if necessary.

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g. Prohibit visitors’ use of motorized vehicles, such as but not limited to dirt bikes and all-terrain vehicles. h. Check and maintain trails monthly. i. Maintain existing trail system in good condition.

Objective 4: Highlight stonewalls and maintain existing north shore views. Strategies: a. Continue to trim and cut vegetation to maintain long-distance views of the Vineyard Sound and Elizabeth Islands from the ridge trail.

b. Clear vegetation from the stonewall along Middle Line Road and the old cart path connecting the trailhead to Homan Road. c. Cut snags if they significantly detract from the aesthetic quality of the view.

Objective 5: Entertain possibilities for other trail links Strategies: a. Use existing trails on the preserve where possible and create new trails as necessary to connect the preserve to future conservation land and trail easements.

b. Maintain existing links to other conserved properties

c. Create links to other conserved land and easements

Objective 6: Require that dogs are leashed during the avian ground-nesting season and eastern box turtle nesting season from March 1 through July 30. Strategies: a. Post the dog policy at the various sign stations and property entrances and in the land bank map. b. Encourage visitors to clean up after their pets.

C. Natural Products

Create a sustainable community woodlot program, if public need is demonstrated, and allow hunting and gathering provided that these uses do not preclude attainment of natural conservation objectives; prohibit camping on the preserve.

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Objective 1: Permit hunting on the preserve for deer, turkey, pheasant and racoon. Strategies: a. Notify the public of the hunting policy on the preserve, in the land bank hunting policy and on the land bank website. b. Follow the hunting policy regarding types or hunting and numbers of hunters on the preserve; revise policy for the preserve as recommended by the land bank hunting subcommittee.

Objective 2: Prohibit camping. Strategies: a. Prohibit camping on the preserve unless special permission is granted by the land bank commission for scouting and like groups and it is in compliance with appropriate Chilmark town bylaws. b. Monitor the preserve for squatters and remove unauthorized campers promptly

Objective 3: Allow gathering of natural products according to the land bank’s public use policy. Strategies: a. Prohibit collecting of locally rare plants and wildlife on the preserve. b. Require that gathering occur within the immediate environs of the trail system.

Objective 4: Allow silviculture use of the preserve. Strategies: a. Develop a community woodlot program for the growth and harvest of firewood if the land bank commission determines that there is a public need for such a program. b. Establish a forest management plan for the preserve specifically designed for the growth and harvest of hardwood firewood on a sustainable annual that addresses likely impacts to nature conservation and recreational goals; proposes mitigation of impacts; and proposes steps to maintain or improve site productivity.

D. Community Interaction Provide helpful and interesting information about the property for visitors; promote cultural resource conservation; and allow educational use of the property.

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Objective 1: Help people find the property and avoid trespassing. Strategies a. Mark the property on land bank website (www.mvlandbank.com) and map and provide directions. b. Install “end of land bank property” signs where appropriate. c. Install land bank logo markers on property. d. Limit trespassing by closing existing trails not intended for use. e. Install gates or fencing as needed. f. Inform visitors, in the land bank map, how to access the preserve’s trailhead and its intended use. g. Post map of property and trails as well as an aerial overview of the connecting conservation land and trails on sign station and website as they are updated. h. Plant vegetation where residential dwellings are visible from the trail, as necessary, that blends in with the natural context of its environs in order to define and screen the boundaries.

Objective 2: Present useful and interesting information about Middle Line Woods preserve to the public. Strategies: a. Provide the Chilmark public library and conservation commission with copies of this management plan if so desired. b. Make a copy of this plan available at the land bank office and, when file size is not restrictive, on the land bank website. c. Post information about the cultural and natural history of the preserve at the trailheads.

E. Land Administration Oversee and police Middle Line Woods Preserve on a regular basis and develop good neighborhood relations

Objective 1: Maintain good relations with abutters and neighbors. Strategies: a. Establish contact and working relations with neighbors. b. Maintain contact and working relations with the Chilmark conservation commission; send a draft copy of the plan to the Chilmark conservation

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commission prior to the public hearing. c. Post the activities allowed and prohibited on the preserve.

Objective 2: Keep property well-maintained. Strategies: a. Inspect property at least monthly. b. Clean up any litter and junk which may occur. c. Promptly respond to problems. d. Employ adequate staff to effectively implement land management goals.

Objective 3: Maintain set hours for use. Strategies: a. Open property every day of the year from sunrise to sunset. b. Prohibit nighttime use unless special permission is granted by the land bank commission. c. Post “closed at dark” signs on the sign station.

Objective 4: Keep well-maintained boundaries. Strategies: a. Locate and GPS corners. b. Walk boundaries annually. c. Post boundary flags where appropriate. d. Correct encroachments as they occur.

Objective 5: Keep good records of all land management activities and natural events. Strategies: a. Record all significant events, natural or otherwise. b. Continue to update plant and wildlife inventories. c. Maintain photographic record of landscape appearance.

Objective 6: Comply with all applicable regulations and agreements. Strategies: a. Comply with Massachusetts endangered species act.

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b. Comply with wetlands protection act and Chilmark town wetland by- laws. c. Request recommendations from the Massachusetts historical commission regarding the proposed activities in the plan.

IV. Literature Cited

Avery, T. and H. Burkhart. 2002. Forest Measurements. McGraw-Hill,. Boston, MA. 456 pp.

Banks, C. E. 1966. The History of Martha’s Vineyard Dukes County Massachusetts. Volume III. The Dukes County Historical Society, Edgartown, MA 565pp.

Cornell Ornithology Laboratory. 2009. All About Birds. http://www.allaboutbirds.org.

Haines, A. 2011. Flora Novae Angliae. Yale University Press. New Haven, CT. 973pp.

Harris, P.J. 2004. Personal communication.

Kimmins, J.P. 1987. Forest Ecology. Macmillan Publishing Company, , New York. 531 pp.

Kricher J. and G. Morrison. 1988. Ecology of Eastern Forests. Houghton Mifflin Company, New York, NY. 368 pp.

Massachusetts Geographic Information System. 2003. Executive Office of Environmental Affairs. www.state.ma.us/mgis/massgis.htm.

MHC. 1984. MHC Reconnaissance Survey Town Report: Chilmark. Massachusetts Historical Commission. Boston, MA14pp.

Potter, J. 1997. Universal Access Plan. Martha’s Vineyard Land Bank Commission publication. 53 pp.

Soil Conservation Service. 1986. Soil Survey of Dukes County, Massachusetts. Department of Agriculture. 144 pp.

Swanson, D.L. and C. Knapp. 1999. The Flora of Martha’s Vineyard. Martha’s Vineyard Sandplain Restoration Project. 129 pp.

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USGS. 2012. Science Topics: Biological and Physical Processes.

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Appendix A. Locus, Topography and Site Management Maps

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Clay Rights Map of 1868

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Appendix B. Surveys, Deeds and Preliminary Management Plan Goals Deeds and larger copies of the surveys are on file at the land bank office. They include the following:

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Appendix C. Soils Maps and Descriptions

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The soils on the preserve are from the Chilmark, Eastchop, and Moshup General Soils series. There are three different soil series represented on the preserve. The following soil descriptions are derived from SCS (1986) Dukes County Soil Surveys. c. Eastchop loamy sand (EcB, EcC, EcD, EdD) EcC – A very deep soil strongly sloping 8-15% that is excessively drained. Risk of erosion and low water capacity make this soil poorly suited to woodland productivity or cultivated crops, hay, and pasture. Slope also limits building capability. Erosion is concern for trails, landings, and access roads. EcD – A very deep soil steeply sloping 15-35% that is excessively drained and with a low water capacity. This soil is unsuitable for farming because of slope, low water capacity, and erosion hazard which also limit woodland productivity and building. Erosion presents a management hazard for trails, landings, and access roads. EdB – A very deep, gently sloping (3-8%) soil that is excessively drained. This soil often occurs on small hills and has a 1-3% cover of stones and boulders. The low water availability and stoniness making this soil poorly suited to woodland productivity or cultivated crops, hay, or pasture. It is suitable for building with or without basements. EdC – A very deep, moderately sloping (8-15%) soil that is excessively drained. This soil has a 1-3% cover of stones and boulders and occurs on small hills and ridges. Low water capacity, slope, and rocky surface make this soil unsuitable for farming and woodland productivity and limit building. Erosion is a management hazard for trails, landings, and access roads. EdD – A very deep soil moderately to steeply sloping 15-35% that is excessively drained. Up to 3% of the surface is covered by stones and boulders and some parts of this soil may consist of 20-30% gravel. Low water capacity, slope, and rocky surface make this soil unsuitable for farming and woodland productivity and limit building. Erosion is a management hazard for trails, landings, and access roads. d. Haven very fine sandy loam (HaA) HaA – A very deep, nearly level (0-3%) soil that is well drained and often occurs in the outwash plain. This soil is well suited to cultivated crops, hay and pasture is fairly well suited to woodland productivity and has no limitations for building with or without basements.

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c. Nantucket sandy loam (NaB) NaB – A deep, gently sloping (3-8%) soil that is well drained and occurs on the crests and sides of ridges and hills. This soil is well suited to cultivated crops, hay and pasture is fairly well suited to woodland productivity and has no limitations for building with or without basements.

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Appendix C: Vegetation

Vegetation inventories and surveys of Middle Line Woods Preserve were conducted in 1999, 2000, 2004, 2016 and 2017. The point-sampling method as described by Avery and Burkhart (1994) was used to inventory the trees in the woodlands in 2000. A total of 11 points was inventoried in the woodland. Circular plots (3-meter2) were used to inventory the understory at each woodland point. Density and percent cover of understory vegetation were recorded for all plots. Rare plant species were inventoried on the preserve during ongoing plant inventories conducted by land bank staff from 1999 through 2017. Flora at Middle Line Woods Preserve are listed in Table 1 with proper nomenclature according to Gleason and Cronquist (1991) with the latest nomenclature changes for Asteracea, Caprifoliaceae, Cistaceae, and Poaceae as described in Haines (2011). A description of each cover type and quantitative summary of surveys follows:

Table 1. Flora of Middle Line Woods Preserve

2000 2017

- -

2004

woodland

oldcartpath

1999 2016 scientific name common name swamp shrub

MUSCI 1 Dicranum scoparum windblown moss x x x x 2 Polytrichum juniperinum haircap moss x x x x 3 Sphagnum sp. sphagnum x x 4 Thuidium leucobryum fern moss x x x x LICHEN 5 Usnea strigosa old man's beard x x x vascular plants POLYPODIOPHYTA Dennstaedtiaceae 1 Pteridium aquilinum bracken fern AN U x x x Osmundaceae Osmundastrum 2 cinnamomeum cinnamon fern AN x x GRAMINOID Cyperaceae 3 Carex pensylvanica pennsylvania sedge AN x x x x Juncaceae 4 Juncus tenuis path rush AN x x x HERB Araliaceae 5 Aralia nudicaulis wild sarsaparilla FN U x x Asteraceae 6 Prenanthes trifoliata tall rattlesnake root ON x x

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Colchicaceae 7 Uvularia sessilifolia sessile-leaved bellwort ON x x Ericaceae 8 Pyrola americana roundleaf pyrola FN U x 9 Epigaea repens trailing arbutus AN x x x x Liliaceae Maianthemum 10 canadense Canada mayflower AN U x x Monotropaceae 11 Monotropa uniflora indian pipe FN x x x x Orobanchaceae 12 Melampyrum lineare cow-wheat UN x x x Primulaceae 13 Lysimachia quadrifolia whorled loosestrife FN x x x 14 Trientalis borealis star flower FN C x x x Ranunculaceae 15 Anemone quinquefolia wood anemone FN x x SHRUB Aquifoliaceae 16 Ilex verticillata winterberry FN x x x x x Betulaceae 17 Corylus americana American hazelnut FN x x x Caprifoliaceae 18 dentatum southern arrowwood UN U x x x Clethraceae 19 Clethra alnifolia sweet pepperbush AN A x x x x x Ericaceae 20 Gaultheria procumbens wintergreen AN x x x x x 21 black huckleberry AN A x x x 22 Gaylussacia frondosa dangleberry FN C x x x 23 Kalmia angustifolia sheep laurel FN U x x x 24 ligustrina maleberry FN x x x x x Rhododendron 25 viscosum swamp azalea FN x x x x late sweet lowbush 26 angustifolium blueberry AN U x 27 highbush blueberry FN U x x x x 28 early lowbush blueberry FN C x Fagaceae 29 scrub oak AN x x x x Myricaceae 30 Myrica pensylvanica bayberry AN x x x x Rosaceae

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31 Aronia arbutifolia red chokeberry ON x x x x 32 Aronia melanocarpa black chokeberry ON U x x x Tree Aceraceae 33 red maple AN U x x x x x Aquifoliaceae 34 Ilex opaca American holly ON x x x x Betulaceae 35 Betula populifolia gray ON x x x Cornaceae 36 beetlebung AN U x x x x Fabaceae 37 black locust FI x x x Fagaceae 38 Fagus grandifolia American beech FN U x x x 39 white oak AN U x x x 40 Quercus coccinea scarlet oak AN U x x x 41 black oak AN A x x x Juglandaceae 42 Carya tomentosa mockernut ON x x x x Lauraceae 43 sassafras AN U x x x Rosaceae 44 Amelanchier canadensis thicket shadbush FN x x 45 Amelanchier leavis smooth shadbush UN U x x x 46 serotina black cherry AN x x x x VINE Anacardaceae 47 Toxicodendron radicans poison ivy AN U x x x x x Rosaceae 48 Rubus flagellaris prickly dewberry FN C x 49 Rubus hispidus bristly dewberry AN U x x 50 Rubus occidentalis black raspberry UN x x x Smilaceae 51 Smilax glauca glaucous greenbrier FN x x x 52 Smilax rotundifolia common greenbrier AN C x x x x Vitaceae Parthenocissus 53 quinquefolia creeper AN x x x Total # of present species 17 25 9 Total # of abundant species 3 0 0 Total # of common species 5 0 0

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Total # of uncommon species 17 2 0 Total number of species 42 27 9 % of total species 72% 46% 15% aRarity of plants on Martha’s Vineyard: U= unknown, A=abundant (almost always occur in typical habitat), F = frequent (often occur in typical habitat), O = occasional (occur in more than 10 sites but are not expected to occur in typical habitat ), R = rare (occur in 10 or fewer sites, H = historic (recorded but not sighted in past 40 years), N = native, I = introduced, WL = watch listed by MA, SC = special concern by MA, E = endangered, T = threatened. b Survey results: A = abundant (percent occurrence > 50%), C = common (percent occurrence >21% and <50%), U = uncommon (percent occurrence <20%), X = present on the preserve but not detected during survey; Sources: Swanson and Knapp 1999, Gleason and Cronquist 1991, Hale 1979 and Newcomb 1977.

Habitat Description

a. Wetland Highbush blueberry Shrub Swamp (0.75 acres)

In a depression along Tabor House Road is an isolated piece of land subject to flooding that serves as the only wetland on the preserve. It is dominated by highbush blueberry and is surrounded by red maple and beetlebung trees. The shrub swamp itself has an open canopy and a ground cover of sphagnum hummocks.

b. Woodland The woodland is the dominant ecological community on the preserve. Seventy- two percent of all known plant species on the preserve occur in the woodland. The old cart path adds an additional 12 plants to the diversity of the woodland as a result of disturbance and increased light penetration to the ground.

Woodland trees are on average, 30 feet tall and 9 inches in diameter at breast height. The estimated basal area per acre is 102 square feet. There are an estimated 66 trees per acre in the dbh class of 10 inches and greater. Oaks dominate the woodland and create a moderately closed canopy of 83%.

The woodland is divided between the lowland mixed-oak-maple woodland and the upland mixed-oak-holly woodland along the ridge. Overall, the canopy cover in the woodland is somewhat closed and has an average percent cover of 83%.

Mixed-Oak-Maple Woodland (30 acres)

Nearly half of the preserve, in the lowlands along the northwestern flank of the ridge, is dominated by black and white oak trees interspersed with beetlebung and red maples. A mosaic of dense shrubs with an open tree canopy snakes throughout the otherwise relatively closed canopy woodland. The understory in general comprises either sweet pepperbush or black huckleberry and is interspersed with patches of dangleberry, sheep laurel, bayberry and common greenbrier. The ground cover, if present, is most commonly prickly dewberry.

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Mixed-Oak-Holly Woodland (23 acres)

The woodland along the ridge and flank to the east comprises a mix of black, white and scarlet oak. Mature American holly trees along with younger saplings share the canopy space of the woodland. Small groves of shade-tolerant American beech and young sassafras trees are infiltrating the oak-dominated woodland. Black huckleberry is the dominant understory shrub followed by sweet pepperbush and dangleberry. Occasionally throughout the woodland dense stands of scrub oak occur with a dangleberry understory. Lowbush blueberry frequently grows in the understory of the huckleberry. Less common in the woodland are ground cover species such as star flower, pyrola, dewberry and Canada mayflower. Occasionally, where light penetration into the understory is greater, tangles of common greenbrier occur.

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Appendix D. Wildlife Middle Line Woods Preserve provides opportunities for nesting, roosting, and foraging wildlife species; fruiting shrubs and vines (i.e., huckleberry, blueberry, greenbrier, and bayberry) provide for summer and fall foraging; dense shrub areas provide winter cover for deer and nesting sites for birds; and the woodland provides cover for ground-nesting birds and small mammals as well as forage for larger mammals.

Various moth species use the trees on the preserve for at least a portion of their life cycle (Table 2). The nectar-producing flowering plants and deciduous trees growing in the woodland are a superb food source for invertebrates such as butterflies and others in the Lepidoptera order.

Wildlife species were observed on the preserve through general property surveys, UV black-light surveys and diurnal Lepidoptera surveys. Wildlife species seen or heard and evidence of wildlife species such as tracks and scat were recorded during general observations, vegetation surveys and avian bird counts in 1999 – 2016. Nocturnal moth species were surveyed using a stainless steel rigid vein 18-24 inch “leptrap” with a 32-40 Watt quantum black light. Traps were set using a photoelectric switch from dusk to dawn on seven trap nights in June, July, August and September of 2016. Species were collected, packaged and sent to Mark Mello, an entomologist with the Lloyd Center for the Environment, in Dartmouth, MA, for positive identification.

A complete list of moth species trapped during nocturnal and diurnal Lepidoptera surveys and a table of the wildlife species known to occur on the preserve follow.

Table 2. Summary of macrolepidoptera recorded from Middle Line Woods Preserve, Chilmark, MA in 2016. month June July Aug Sept MONA ZOOK. date 6 15 5 20 27 30 7 DREPANIDAE 6255 Oreta rosea 1 1 GEOMETRIDAE 0 0 6273 pustularia 1 1 1 3 6326 Macaria aemulitaria 1 1 2 6339 Macaria transitaria 1 1 6352 Macaria granitata 1 1 6386 ocellinata 1 1 6449 Glena cribrataria 1 1 6450 Glena cognataria 1 1 6582 Iridopsis vellivolata 1 1 6588 Iridopsis larvaria 1 1 6590 Anavitrinelia pampinaria 1 1 6597 Ectropis crepuscularia 1 1 1 3 6598 Protoboarmia porcelaria 1 1 2

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6599 Epimecis hortaria 1 1 2 6620 Melanolophia canadaria 1 1 1 3 6640 Biston betularia 1 1 6654 Hypagyrtis unipunctata 1 1 1 1 1 5 6667 Lomographa vestaliata 1 1 6711 Ilexia intractata 1 1 6720 Lytrosis unitaria 1 1 6725 muzaria 1 1 6739 Euchlaena irraria 1 1 6754 Pero ancetaria 1 1 2 6755 Pero morrisonaria 1 1 2 6763 Phaeoura quernaria 1 1 6796 Campaea perlata 1 1 2 6815 Gueneria similaria 1 1 6819 Metanema inatomaria 0 6822 Metarranthis duaria 1 1 2 6826 Metarranthis hypochraria 1 1 6835 Cepphis armataria 1 1 6837 Probole alienaria 1 1 2 6840 Plagodis serinaria 1 1 2 6843 Plagodis fervidaria 1 1 2 6844 Plagodis alcoolaria 1 1 2 6885 Besma quercivoraria 1 1 1 3 6888 Lambdina fiscellaria 1 1 6892 Lambdina pellucidaria 1 1 2 6894 Lambdina fervidaria 1 1 6941 Eusarca confusaria 1 1 2 6963 Tetracis crocallata 1 1 2 6964 Tetracis cachexiata 1 1 6966 Eutrapela clemataria 1 1 2 6982 Prochoerodes lineola 1 1 2 6987 Antepione thiosaria 1 1 2 7009 Nematocampa resistaria 1 1 7046 Nemoria bistriaria 1 1 2 7053 Dichorda iridaria 1 1 Sterrhinae 0 7136 Cyclophora packardi 1 1 2 7139 Cyclophora pendulinaria 1 1 1 1 1 5 7159 Scopula limboundata 1 1 1 3 0 7416 Costaconvexa centrostrigaria 1 1 7414 Orthonama obstipata 1 1

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7239 pluviata/transfigurata 1 1 7206 Eulithis explanata 1 1 2 7196 Eulithis diversilineata 1 1 Eupithecia spp. 1 1 2 LASIOCAMPIDAE 0 7663 Apatelodes torrefacta 1 1 7698 Malacosoma disstria 1 1 7701 Malacosoma americanum 1 1 SATURNIIDAE 0 7704 Eacles imperialis 6 1 7 7715 Dryocampa rubicunda 1 1 1 3 7723 Anisota virginiensis 1 1 1 3 7746 Automeris io 1 1 1 3 7757 Antheraea polyphemus 1 1 2 7758 Actias luna 1 1 0 7810 Sphinx gordius/poecilla 1 1 2 7824 excaecatus 1 1 1 3 7826 Paonias astylus 1 1 2 7870 Sphecodina abbottii 1 1 7886 Darapsa choerilus 1 1 2 NOTODONTIDAE 0 7917 930010 Hyperaeschra georgica 1 1 2 7902 930033 Datana ministra 1 1 1 3 7903 930034 Datana angusii 1 1 7904 930035 Datana drexelii 1 1 1 1 1 5 7906 930037 Datana contracta 1 1 2 7915 930046 Nadata gibbosa 1 1 1 1 4 7920 930049 Peridea angulosa 1 1 2 7975 930067 Macruocampa marthesia 1 1 1 1 4 7983 930075 Heterocampa obliqua 1 1 2 7990 930082 Heterocampa umbrata 1 1 1 1 1 5 7994 930086 Heterocampa guttivitta 1 1 1 3 8005 930098 Schizura ipomoeae 1 1 1 3 7951 930127 Symmerista albifrons 1 1 2 0 Lymantriinae 0 8318 930141 Lymantria dispar 1 1 2 8302 930154 Dasyshira obliquata 1 1 2 8316 930168 Orgyia leucostigma 1 1 2 0 8045.1 930219 Crambidia pallida 1 1 2

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8171 930280 Apantesis nais 1 1 1 3 8118 930297 opella 1 1 1 3 8134 930309 Spilosoma congrua 1 1 2 8203 930360 Halysidota tessellaris 1 1 8211 930370 Lophocampa caryae 1 1 2 8230 930404 Cycnia tenera 1 1 0 8322 930469 Idia americalis 1 1 1 1 4 8323 930471 Idia aemula 1 1 1 1 4 8326 930474 Idia rotundalis 1 1 1 3 8327 930475 Idia forbesi 1 1 8328 930476 Idia Julia 1 1 2 8329 930477 Idia diminuendos 1 1 1 1 4 8340 930489 Zanclognatha literalis 1 1 8341 930490 Zanclognatha theralis 1 1 1 3 8352 930499 Zanclognatha marcidilinea 1 1 8353 930500 Zanclognatha jacchusalis 1 1 1 3 8355 930502 Chytolita morbidalis 1 1 2 8370 930520 Bleptina caradrinalis 1 1 1 1 4 8378 930529 salusalis 1 1 1 1 4 8379 930530 Renia factiosalis 1 1 1 3 8386 930538 Renia "adspergillus" 1 1 2 8397 930551 Palthis angulalis 1 1 Pangraptinae 0 8490 930559 Pangrapta decoralis 1 1 1 1 1 5 Hypeninae 0 8442 930562 Hypena baltimoralis 1 1 Scolecocampinae 0 8522 930643 Gabara subnivosella 1 1 2 Hypenodinae 0 8421 930662 Hypenodes fractilinea 1 1 2 8428 930671 Dyspyralis nigellus 1 1 Phytometrinae 0 9038 930730 Hyperstrotia villificans 1 1 1 3 0 8849 930835 andromedae 1 1 2 8857 930841 Catocala ultronia 1 1 8865 930847 Catocala praeclara 1 1 8878 930859 Catocala amica 1 1 8878.1 930860 Catocala lineella 1 1 8727 930961 Parallelia bistriaris 1 1 8721 930962 Allotria elonympha 1 1

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8697 931032 Zale minerea 1 1 2 8709 931044 Zale curema 1 1 8713.1 931048 Zale lunifera (=”sp. 1”) 1 1 8717 931053 Zale horrida 1 1 Eulepidotinae 0 8587 931089 Panopoda rufimargo 1 1 1 1 4 0 8959 931107 pygmaea 1 1 8983 931121 minuscula 1 1 2 8983.1 931122 Meganola phylla 1 1 2 8983.2 931123 Meganola spodia 1 1 2 8996 931136 Nola clethrae 1 1 1 1 4 0 Eustrotiinae 0 9044 931284 Marimatha nigrofimbria 1 1 9049 931295 Maliattha synochitis 1 1 Pantheinae 0 9184 931400 Colocasia flavicornis 1 1 Balsinae 0 9664 931419 labecula 1 1 Acronictinae 0 9243 931463 Acronicta ovata 1 1 2 9244 931465 Acronicta modica 1 1 1 1 4 9245 931466 Acronicta haesitata 1 1 9249 931467 Acronicta increta (+"inclara") 1 1 2 9247 931469 Acronicta tristis 1 1 9251 931470 Acronicta retardata 1 1 9259 931476 Acronicta noctivaga 1 1 9285 931497 Polygrammate hebraeicum 1 1 1 1 1 5 8104 931499 Comachara cadburyi 1 1 Eriopinae 0 9631 932192 Callopistria mollissima 1 1 0 9053 932205 Pseudeustrotia carneola 1 1 2 9619 932209 Phosphila miseloides 1 1 2 9681.1 932233 alapallida 1 1 1 3 9545 932290 Euplexia benesimilis 1 1 9415.1 932375 Oligia strigilis 1 1 9815 932672 Cosmia calami 1 1 2 9556 932713 Chytonix palliatricula 1 1 1 3 10291 932805 latex 1 1

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10300 932882 Spiramater grandis 1 1 2 10301 932883 Spiramater lutra 1 1 2 10532.1 933089 Homorthodes lindseyi 1 1 2 10587 933138 cynica 1 1 2 10288 933146 Orthodes detracta 1 1 1 3 10878 933228 Striacosta albicosta 1 1 10817 933428 Euxoa obeliscoides 1 1 10670 933498 Feltia jaculifera 1 1 10674 933501 Feltia subgothica 1 1 10676 933503 Feltia herilis 1 1 11010 933547 phyllophora 1 1 1 3 11012.2 933551 Noctua pronuba 1 1 2 10942.1 933589 Xestia dolosa 1 1 2 11029 933680 Abagrotis alternata 1 1

# Species 63 63 55 42 67 18 18 168 note: commonwealth-listed species are highlighted

Table 3. Wildlife at Middle Line Woods Preserve, Chilmark, MA from general observations during property inventories conducted in 1999 through 2017 Scientific name Common name Uplands Wetlands

Kingdom Animalia

Phylum Arthropoda

Class Insecta

Order Hymenoptera

Family Apidae: Apis millifera eastern honey bee S Sp

Order Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) b

Family Lycaenidae: Lycaena phlaeas American copper Sp, F Sp

Family Lycaenidae: Celastrina ladon spring azure Sp Sp

Order Diptera (flies)

Family Culicidae: species unknown mosquitoes S S

Family Tabanidae: Chrysops sp. deer flies S S

Class Arachnida

Order Acarina

Family Araneidae: Argiope aurantia deer tick Sp, F Sp, F

Family Ixodidae: Dermacentor variabilis wood tick Sp, S S, F

Phylum Chordata

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Class Mammalia

Order Rodentia

Family Sciuridae: Sciurus carolinensis grey squirrel Sp, S S, F, W

Family Sciuridae: Tamias striatus eastern chipmunk S Sp, S, F, W

Order Carnivora

Family Mephitidae: Mephitis mephitis striped skunk S,W S,W

Order Artiodactyla

Family Cervidae: Odocoileus virginianus white-tailed deer Sp, S, F Sp, S, F

Class Reptilia

Order Anura

Family Hylidae: Pseudacris crucifer spring peeper Sp

Order Squamata Tham Family Colubridae: Thamnophis sirtalis Garter snake Sp aSeason and frequency of occurrence: SP = spring, S = summer, F = fall, W = winter. b complete list of moth species known to occur on the property is included in Appendix F.

Appendix E. Avian Checklist and Seasonal Tables

Land bank staff conducted seasonal 5-minute point-count surveys of birds at Middle Line Woods Preserve in 1999, 2000 and 2016. The presence of occasional migrant and resident birds throughout spring, summer breeding season, and fall were recorded during a total of 1 visit in 1999, 19 visits in 2000 and 7 visits in 2016. Birds were sampled from a total of three point-count survey locations: one in the oak-maple woodland, one in an area of open canopy shrubland and one in the oak-holly woodland. All birds seen or heard during a 5-minute period were recorded. Birds seen or heard outside of the count period were noted as present on the property but were not included in quantitative analyses. Surveys were conducted in the morning and therefore nocturnal species were not likely to be detected.

Additionally, land bank staff conducted two nocturnal owl surveys on the preserve. One in March of 2000 and one in July of 2016. Owls were called in using a Foxpro Ar4 wildlife caller. Calls of seven owl species were played from smallest to largest one at a time in the four cardinal directions. Responses to the calls were recorded.

The presence of bird species on the preserve is seasonally-dependent. Some birds occur in more than one habitat type and during more than one season. Total species counts do not include multiple sightings of an individual species and dominant species varied among seasons. The majority of birds that occur on the preserve during the breeding season comprises tree/shrub nesters, though many are cavity-nesters and ground- nesting species. The Middle Line Woods Preserve provides suitable habitat for all three types of nesting species.

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Species richness was compared among bird survey years conducted during the summer breeding season. Fall surveys were not comparable due to the difference in sampling visits. Species richness during summer breeding was greater in 2016 compared with 2000 within each habitat type surveyed with the greatest increase in species richness occurring in the oak-maple woodland. A total of 8 additional species were recorded during the summer breeding survey in 2016 as compared to 2000.

The most common bird observed during each season varied on the preserve (Tables 4- 7). The black-capped chickadee was most common in the winter and the blue jay was most commonly observed in the fall (Tables 4, 7). The eastern towhee was most commonly observed in the preserve in the spring and summer months (Tables 5,6).

Observations in behavior of birds nesting or rearing young – such as adults carrying nesting materials or food, carrying fecal sacs from a nest, or attending hatchlings – can confirm that a species is breeding on the property. Locating an active nest as well as multiple singing territorial males within suitable habitat are recognizable indications of breeding adult birds. Out of the 32 bird species observed on the preserve during the summer breeding season, none is a confirmed breeder; 10 are probable breeders; 11 are possible breeders; and 1 is a non-breeder due to lack of occurrence in required habitat during the survey (Table 6).

Of the 11 probable breeders, 27% were insectivores feeding on bark, ground or foliage and the remaining birds were omnivores of which 66% were ground gleaners.

Table 4. Fall abundance of avian species on Middle Line Woods Preserve in Chilmark, MA. Habitat

Oak-maple Shrubland Oak-holly Speciesa Woodland woodlands

2000 2016 2000 2016 2000 2016 N=5b N=2 N=5 N=2 N=5 N=2 Year-round American crow U C C O C American goldfinch U Black-capped chickadee C U O C O Blue jay C C C O O Canada goose O Carolina wren O U Downy woodpecker U U Eastern towhee O C U O U Grey catbird U O U O O O Mourning dove O Northern cardinal U U Northern flicker U O U White-breasted nuthatch O Summer-breeding Common yellowthroat C U a Seasonal grouping organized according to Cornell All About Birds (www.allaboutbirds.org/guide)

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b C=common birds (detected in more than 50% of the survey visits); O=occasional birds (detected in 26-50% of the survey visits); U=uncommon birds (detected in 25% and fewer of the survey visits); P=present birds (not detected during a survey period but observed on the property); and OH=overhead.

Table 5. Spring abundance of avian species on Middle Line Woods Preserve in Chilmark, MA. Oak-maple Shrubland Oak-holly Woodland Woodland 2000b 2000 2000 N=5 N=5 N=5 Year-round American crow U American goldfinch U American robin U U American woodcock P2000-2017 Black-capped chickadee C U C Blue jay U U Carolina wren U O U Downy woodpecker U Eastern towhee C C C Grey catbird U U O Herring gull U Northern cardinal U Northern flicker U Red-tailed hawk U White-breasted nuthatch U Winter wren P Summer-breeding Black and white warbler C U O Common yellowthroat C U O Eastern wood-pewee U U Great crested flycatcher P P U Northern oriole U Ovenbird U O Prairie warbler U Red-eyed vireo U Scarlet tanager U Wood thrush U Yellow warbler U a Seasonal grouping organized according to Cornell All About Birds (www.allaboutbirds.org/guide) bC=common birds (detected in more than 50% of the survey visits), O=occasional birds (detected in 26-50% of the survey visits), U=uncommon birds (detected in 25% and fewer of the survey visits) and P=present birds (not detected during a survey period but observed on the property).

Table 6. Summer abundance of avian species on Middle Line Woods Preserve in Chilmark, MA. Habitat

Oak-maple Shrubland Oak-holly Speciesa Woodland woodlands

2000 2016 2000 2016 2000 2016 N=5b N=5 N=5 N=5 N=5 N=5 Year-round American crow PRc U O C U C

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American robin PO U U Black-capped chickadee PR C U U O Blue jay PR U U O Carolina wren PO P Eastern screech owl NB P Eastern towhee PR C C O C C C Grey catbird PR C O O O C Hairy woodpecker PO U U U Herring gull NB U U Mourning dove PR C O Northern cardinal PR O O Red-tailed hawk PO P U Tufted titmouse PO P White-breasted nuthatch PR C U U Summer-breeding Black and white warbler PO U U Common yellowthroat PO U O C U O U Eastern wood-pewee PO O Great crested flycatcher PO U Ovenbird PR U P U Prairie warbler PO U Red-eyed vireo PR C C C Scarlet tanager PO O a Seasonal grouping organized according Cornell All About Birds (www.allaboutbirds.org/guide) b C=common birds (detected in more than 50% of the survey visits), O=occasional birds (detected in 26-50% of the survey visits), U=uncommon birds (detected in 25% and fewer of the survey visits) and P=present birds (not detected during a survey period but observed on the property). c Breeding status: NY=nearby habitat, NB=nonbreeding, PO=possible breeding (species detected in suitable breeding habitat), PR=probable breeding (species heard singing on two occasions over one week apart in suitable breeding habitat). CO=confirmed breeding (species carrying food, CF; feeding young, FY; with begging hatch-year fledglings, HY; or a located nest, N).

Table 7. Winter abundance of avian species on Middle Line Woods Preserve in Chilmark, MA. Oak-maple Shrubland Oak-holly Woodland Woodland 1999/2000b 1999/2000 1999/2000 N=5 N=5 N=5 Year-rounda American crow U O C Black-capped chickadee O C C Downy woodpecker P P Eastern screech owl P Northern cardinal C Red-tailed hawk O a Seasonal grouping organized according to Cornell All About Birds (www.allaboutbirds.org/guide) bC=common birds (detected in more than 50% of the survey visits), O=occasional birds (detected in 26-50% of the survey visits), U=uncommon birds (detected in 25% and fewer of the survey visits) and P=present birds (not detected during a survey period but observed on the property).

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Appendix F. Endangered Species

Middle Line Woods Preserve does not fall within priority or estimated habitat for commonwealth-listed species. Lepidoptera surveys in 2016 revealed two listed species – Imperial moth and Zale species 1 – occurring on the preserve. The Imperial moth was trapped on July 20th and 27th and Zale species 1 was trapped on June 6 of 2016 (Table 2.). The woodland on the preserve meets the general habitat requirement of the imperial and Zale species 1 moths. However, specific habitat requirements such as pitch pine for the Imperial moth and scrub oak for the Zale species 1 occur in very limited quantities on the preserve.

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Appendix G. Abutters Table 8. Abutters within 200 feet of Middle Line Woods Preserve as recorded in the 2017 Chilmark assessors’ book. Parcel Property Owner Name Owner Address Owner Owner City Owner Number Address State Zip 013-004-04 0 NORTH RD PARKER HELEN S PO BOX 477 MA CHILMARK 02535 013-009-01 11 NORTH SILVERSTONE 10620 BELFAST MD POTOMAC 20854 TABOR FARM ALAN J & PLACE RD KYLANNE 013-009-02 19 NORTH REED ALBERT J & 69 SEDWICK MA JAMAICA PLAIN 02130 TABOR FARM KATHERINE K ST. #3 RD 013-009-04 31 NORTH FRANKS SIDNEY 90 MT AIRY RD NY CROTON-ON- 10520 013-009-25 TABOR FARM N & BONNIE HUDSON RD TRSTEES; BONNIE J FRANKS REVOC TRUST 013-009-05 47 NORTH STIBEL WILLIAM 170 BEACON MA MARBLEHEAD 01945- TABOR FARM A ST 1569 RD 013-009-11 11 HILLMAN 504 W CO ASPEN 81611 HUCKLEBERRY TATNALL BLEEKER ST HOLLOW 013-024-00 0 MIDDLE LINE COSSUTTA 920 FIFTH AVE NY NEW YORK 10021 RD ARALDO A APT 1A 013-028-00 55 TABOR CHILMARK TOWN PO BOX 119 MA CHILMARK 02535 013-035-00 HOUSE RD OF/LAND FILL 013-031-00 73 TABOR WLODYKA PO BOX 68 MA CHILMARK 02535 HOUSE RD WALTER & BETTY ANN MARTIN 013-043-01 1 BEECH SLOSSBERG 1 BEECH MA CHILMARK 02535 GROVE JENNIFER N GROVE 013-043-02 0 MOLLYS LN CHILMARK TOWN PO BOX 119 MA CHILMARK 02535 OF 013-043-03 4 BEECH WLODYKA LEV & PO BOX 641 MA CHILMARK 02535 GROVE JENNIFER JAMGOCHIAN 013-043-04 1 HOLLY DAY JEFF O & PO BOX 752 MA CHILMARK 02535 GROVE EMILY R

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Appendix H. Universal Access

The Recreational Opportunities Spectrum (ROS) classification for Middle Line Woods Preserve is “less developed”. The ROS is a model designed and used by the U.S.D.A. Forest Service to categorize conservation areas or universal access planning. The land bank framework for describing the accessibility of its properties is applied to Middle Line Woods Preserve as follows.

Property Name: Middle Line Woods Preserve Size: 54.3 acres Primary Activities: birding, hiking and picnicking Primary Elements: two sign stations Primary Spaces: Middle Ridge and view of Vineyard Sound Obstacles that Limit Accessibility: topography Existing or Potential Alternatives: Peaked Hill Reservation, Ocean View Farm Preserve Proposed ROS Classification: less-developed Proposed Expectation of Accessibility: not-possible

For all less-developed land bank conservation areas, the Universal Access Plan states the following (Potter 1997):

Use outdoor recreation access routes to link primary elements and primary spaces within one-quarter mile of a trailhead or drop-off and use accessible recreation trails to connect other primary elements and primary spaces on all less-developed land bank conservation areas.

Universal access is not proposed for this preserve due to slope constraints between the trailhead and the view amenity. However, it is possible to designate the flatter loop trail consisting of the old clay pit path, Holman Road and the Middle Line Road as suitable for those with limited mobility.

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