Army Corps of Engineers Response Document Draft

Home , Black Dirt Region, Black Meadow Creek, Moodna Creek, Otter Kill, Pompton River, Ramapo Mountains

3.0 ORANGE COUNTY

Orange County has experienced numerous water resource problems along the main stem and the associated tributaries of the Moodna Creek and the Ramapo River that are typically affected by flooding during heavy rain events over the past several years including streambank erosion, agradation, sedimentation, deposition, blockages, environmental degradation, water quality and especially flooding. However, since October 2005, the flooding issues have severely increased and flooding continues during storm events that may or may not be considered significant. Areas affected as a result of creek flows are documented in the attached trip reports (Appendix D). Throughout the Orange County watershed, site visits confirmed opportunities to stabilize the eroding or threatened banks restore the riparian habitat while controlling sediment transport and improving water quality, and balance the flow regime. If the local municipalities choose to request Federal involvement, there are several options, depending on their budget, desired timeframe and intended results. The most viable options include a specifically authorized watershed study or program, or an emergency streambank protection project (Section 14 of the Continuing Authorities Program), or pursing a Continuing Authorities Program study for Flood Risk Management or Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration (Section 205 and Section 206 of the Continuing Authorities Program, respectively). Limited Federal involvement could also be provided in the form of the Planning Assistance to States or Support for Others programs provide assistance and limited funds outside of traditional Corps authorities. A watershed study focusing on restoration of the Moodna Creek, Otter Creek, Ramapo River and their associated tributaries could address various problems using a systematic approach.

3.1.1 Study Authority

In April 2007, the lower Hudson Valley was struck by a nor’easter, which caused significant flooding, damage, and loss of life. In May 2007, a Presidential Disaster Declaration (FEMA-1692-DR, New York) was issued for most of the Lower Hudson Valley as well as other affected counties in the state. The declaration covers 14 counties, including Albany, Columbia, Dutchess, Essex, Greene, Montgomery, Orange, Putnam, Richmond, Rockland, Schoharie, Suffolk, Ulster, and Westchester. The area covered by this Disaster Declaration has a population of 4.5 million people and over 8,949 square miles. Implementation Guidance, dated June 22, 2007, for Public Law 110-28, the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veteran’s Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act, 2007” Title V, Chapter 3, pages 51-53, provides a plan for appropriation of $8,165,000 in General Investigations funds for studies and subsequent execution, in the disaster area where authorization is available.

3.2 Study Purpose

Funds will be utilized to coordinate with other Federal agencies, New York State agencies and local municipalities to prepare a Comprehensive Response Document to identify problems for flood damage reduction, ecosystem restoration, and other allied purposes with the counties covered by FEMA-1692-DR. Using the authority from Section 212 of Water Resource Development Act of 1999, as amended, the Comprehensive Response Document will be a reconnaissance-level multi-watershed report that will identify problems as well as opportunities, potential solutions, potential authorizations and potential cost-sharing partners for individual studies, projects and programs, which may include actions for non-Federal entities. Follow-on efforts resulting from the Comprehensive Response Document should be pursued through the normal budget process to the extent possible. However, if funding for follow-on activities is requested from this Supplemental Appropriation, approval from the Committee would be needed to fund those activities. Every opportunity shall be afforded to utilize innovative and creative techniques and existing information in order to expedite studies and projects into construction.

3.3 Study Area Description and Location

Orange County is located in the U.S. state of New York. At the northern reaches of the New York metropolitan area, it sits in the state's scenic Mid-Hudson Region of the Hudson Valley. Its name is in honor of William III of Orange, who was greatly esteemed by the original settlers of the region. As of the 2000 census, the population was 341,367. The county seat is Goshen and the largest City in Orange County is Newburgh.

History

Orange County was one of the first twelve counties established by the Province of New York in 1683. Its boundaries at that time included present-day Rockland County, which split from Orange County in 1798. It is best known as the location of the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Geography

Orange County is in southeastern New York State, directly north of the New Jersey-New York border, west of the Hudson River, east of the Delaware River and northwest of New York City. It borders the New York counties of Dutchess, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester, as well as Passaic and Sussex counties in New Jersey and Pike County in Pennsylvania.

Orange County is where the Great Valley of the Appalachians finally opens up and ends. The western corner is set off by the Shawangunk Ridge. The area along the Rockland County border (within Harriman and Bear Mountain state parks) and south of Newburgh is part of the Hudson Highlands. The land in between is the valley of the Wallkill River.

In the southern portion of the county the Wallkill valley expands into a wide glacial lake bed known as the Black Dirt Region for its fertility.

The highest point is Schunemunk Mountain, at 1,664 feet (507 m) above sea level. The lowest is sea level along the Hudson.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 2,172 km² (839 sq mi), with 2,114 km² (816 sq mi) as land and 58 km² (22 sq mi) as water.

Transportation

The county is served by Stewart International Airport, located two miles west of Newburgh, New York. The airport serves American Airlines, AirTran Airways, JetBlue Airways, Northwest Airlines, and US Airways. Ground transportation within Orange County is provided primarily by New Jersey Transit, ShortLine, and Metro-North Railroad.

The following is a list of crossings of Moodna Creek, in Orange County, New York, from its mouth at the Hudson River to its source at the confluence of Cromline Creek and Otter Kill west of Washingtonville.

Crossing Carries Location Coordinates

CSX Hudson River Cornwall 41°27′13″N Subdivision 74°01′01″W

41°27′32″N U.S. Route 9W 74°01′27″W New Windsor Orange County 74 41°27′25″N (Old Forge Hill Road) 74°02′25″W

New York State 41°25′59″N Route 32 74°03′17″W Cornwall

Pleasant Hill Road 41°24′33″N 74°04′26″W

Interstate 87 41°24′33″N (New York State 74°04′40″W Thruway)

Otter kill Road 41°25′33″N 74°05′18″W

Metro-North Port Moodna Jervis Line 41°25′45″N Viaduct Norfolk Southern 74°05′57″W

41°25′49″N 74°07′12″W

Blooming Grove 41°25′49″N 74°07′16″W Abandoned railroad bridges 41°25′40″N 74°07′44″W

41°25′26″N 74°09′08″W

Abandoned 41°25′31″N railroad bridge 74°09′36″W Washingtonville

41°25′36″N NY 208 74°10′03″W

Abandoned 41°25′27″N railroad bridge 74°10′12″W

Washingtonville/Blooming 41°25′09″N NY 94 Grove 74°10′33″W

Abandoned 41°25′14″N railroad bridge 74°10′45″W Blooming Grove private bridge 41°25′51″N 74°11′18″W

Demographics

As of the census² of 2000, there were 341,367 people, 114,788 households, and 84,483 families residing in the county. The population density was 161/km² (418/sq mi). There were 122,754 housing units at an average density of 58/km² (150/sq mi).

Despite its rural roots, Orange County is considered to be among the fastest growing suburb/exurb regions of the New York City Metropolitan Area.

Places

North: Sullivan and

Ulster Counties East: Hudson West: Sullivan County River and Pike County, Orange County Dutchess and Pennsylvania Putnam Counties South: Rockland County Passaic and Sussex Counties in New Jersey

Municipalities within Moodna and Ramapo Watershed County seat: Goshen (village)

3.4 Watershed Description

Orange County predominantly straddles two (2) watersheds, the Hudson- Wappinger watershed and the Hackensack-Passaic watershed. A minimal portion of the Lower Hudson watershed is also located in Orange County. The 28 November 2007 meeting indicated that the Moodna Creek and Ramapo River (and their associated tributaries) provide the greatest area of concern for the Comprehensive Response Report. These areas of concern are located within the Hudson-Wappinger watershed and the Hackensack-Passaic watershed, respectively.

The Orange County is also located within the boundaries of the watershed for the Rondout Creek and its major tributary, the Wallkill River, until the confluence with the Hudson River. The Rondout Creek study area encompasses areas of both the state of New York and New Jersey. Rondout Reservoir, owned and operated by New York City for water supply, is located within the study area. The Wallkill River originates at Lake Mohawk in New Jersey, passes through the Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge, the Black Dirt Area before flowing north into New York, through the Towns of Montgomery, Walden and New Paltz before joining Rondout Creek just downstream of Rosendale. The Black Dirt Area, an important agricultural region in Orange County, is located within the Wallkill River watershed. Rondout Creek passes through the Towns of Ellenville, Rochester and Rosendale and under the New York State Thruway before meeting the Hudson River at Rondout Harbor in the City of Kingston. A separate study authority for a Section 905(b) (WRDA 1986) Expedited Reconnaissance Study Analysis was prepared as an initial response to the resolution adopted by the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the United States, Docket 2776, dated May 21, 2007.

3.4.1 Moodna Creek is a small tributary of the Hudson River that drains eastern Orange County, New York. At 15.5 miles (25 km) in length from its source at the confluence of Cromline Creek and Otter Kill west of Washingtonville, it is the longest stream located entirely within the county.

Despite its small size relative to the Hudson, it has been a major influence on the topography of eastern central Orange County. Its 187.2-square mile (485 km²) watershed, including not only both its parent streams but Woodbury Creek as well, reaches as far inland as Goshen as well as 21 other area communities. Near Salisbury Mills it is crossed by the Moodna Viaduct, the longest actively-used railroad trestle east of the Mississippi.

"Moodna" is a corruption of the Dutch "Moordenaars", from Murderers' Creek, its original name. Local lore has it that the name came from the massacre of the Stacys, an early family of settlers, along its banks. Murderers' Creek was in common use in the mid- 18th century, however by the dawn of the 20th Moodna was being used on maps although the older name persisted.

Confluence of Cromline Creek (center) and Otter Kill (right), creating Moodna Creek (left).

Moodna Creek near Knox's Headquarters State Historic Site in New Windsor Country United States State New York County Orange Towns Cornwall, New Windsor, Blooming Grove Villages Washingtonville Length 15.5 mi (25 km) Watershed 187.2 mi² (485 km²) Primary sourceOtter Kill - location Goshen Reservoir No. 2, Town of Goshen - coordinates 41°22′06″N 74°19′02″W - elevation 460 ft (140 m) Other source Cromline Creek - location Tomahawk Lake, Blooming Grove - coordinates 41°24′57″N 74°13′07″W - elevation 340 ft (104 m) Source confluence - location Blooming Grove - coordinates 41°25′51″N 74°11′41″W - elevation 300 ft (91 m) Mouth Hudson River - location Cornwall - coordinates 41°27′13″N 74°01′00″W - elevation 0 ft (0 m) Major tributaries - right Woodbury Creek

Course

From the confluence, just off NY 208, the Moodna flows through woods and field alongside the highway for a short distance, then veers southwestward to where it crosses NY 94. The creek and Route 94 will keep close company for several miles as it turns eastward again into Washingtonville, where it crosses under 208 just south of downtown. Past the village, Route 94 and the creek enter first the Town of Blooming Grove and then Cornwall. They run close together at first, then further apart as the Moodna valley opens up just to the north of Schunnemunk Mountain. At Salisbury Mills the viaduct crosses 193 feet (59 m) overhead.

The Moodna Viaduct

After that point, the Moodna turns southward slightly, following the curve of Schunemunk's north end under the Thruway and leaving the Route 94 corridor. It descends into the narrower valley, forming the eastern boundary of Storm King Art Center. Here the already wide creek gets even wider with the addition of Woodbury Creek just after it tumbles over a small dam. Immediately after, NY 32 crosses between Vails Gate and Mountainville. The wide, rocky stream curves between steep, wooded hills to enter New Windsor and cross Old Forge Hill Road just below Knox's Headquarters State Historic Site, receiving its only major northern tributary, Silver Stream, in the process. Following Old Forge Hill briefly, it passes its last road crossing at US 9W, then bends southwards back into Cornwall to empty into the Hudson amid tidal marshes. The CSX Hudson River Subdivision freight line crosses right at its mouth.

Natural history

The 75 acres (30 ha) of tidal marsh in the creek's estuary, between Route 9W and the Hudson, are home to several rare plants and natural communities. Anadromous fish species, such as striped bass, spawn there as well. This fish supply has been attractive not only to human anglers but to predatory bird species as well: bald eagles and ospreys have been seen feeding in the Moodna's marshes[4]

While the water quality in that area remains generally good, there is effluent from the Town of New Windsor's sewage treatment plant. In November 2003 the Riverkeeper

environmental organization sued the town over discharge into the creek leaking from two manholes into the creek. It was settled in 2005 when the town agreed to repair the manholes, remediate the area and provide public access to the water.

Tidal Marshes at the Moodna Creek Mouth – home to some rare species and communities

Recreation

The six miles (10 km) between Woodbury Creek and Old Forge Hill Road in Cornwall have become a popular place for whitewater kayaking. Section ratings on the International Scale of River Difficulty range from Class II to Class IV. Anglers, too, have taken advantage of the stream above the salt marshes. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation keeps Moodna Creek regularly stocked with brown and rainbow trout.

History

During colonial times, and for a short time after independence, the creek formed part of the boundary between Orange and Ulster counties. In 1798, however, Rockland County was created, and the line was adjusted northward, giving Orange the current towns of Newburgh, Montgomery and Crawford as compensation for the lost territory.

Heavy rains during the April 2007 Nor'easter caused the creek to flood extensively in its upper course in and around Washingtonville. Route 94 was blocked in both directions and Route 208 from the south, leaving only northern access to the village available. Almost a hundred residents had to leave their homes for temporary shelter at a local elementary school.

Tributaries

Silver Stream Woodbury Creek Otter Kill

Baby Brook Idlewild Creek Cromline Creek

Perry Creek Black Meadow Creek Seely Brook

Satterly Creek Mineral Springs Brook Trout Brook

Highland Brook Young’s Brook

Moodna Creek Water Quality

Orange County is currently the fastest-growing county in NY State and management of water quality and quantity is a major concern in terms of drinking water, biodiversity, erosion and flood control, and other priorities. The Hudson River/Moodna Creek is identified in the county’s Open Space Plan as one of four Selected Priority Watersheds, and the New York State Coastal Management Program has designated areas along the Moodna Creek as “irreplaceable” Significant Coastal Fish and Wildlife Habitats. Water quality is impacted by urbanization in the Moodna watershed, and these sites show symptoms of nutrient enrichment and other pollution (Nolan, 200). Water quantity is also impacted by urbanization, as large portions of the Moodna basin are dependent on groundwater for drinking water. Certain areas, including the Village of Washingtonville, use wells directly connected to Moodna Creek.

During a dry spell in 2005, the Village was forced to tap emergency wells and implement water conservation requirements due to low water levels; yet, this dry spell was not considered a real drought. Ongoing development is expected to exacerbate the potential for water shortages both by increasing water demand and creating new impervious surfaces. Several municipal water districts in the Moodna basin (including Cornwall-on- Hudson and New Windsor) use water from NY City’s Catskill Aqueduct, and a proposed new pipeline could lead to increased withdrawals from the City’s system to serve areas in and adjacent to the Moodna basin. Unless a more sustainable approach for managing water resources is adopted, these pressures are only likely to increase over time. Land use planning and site design strategies can help to mitigate these problems; these include: open space protection, low impact development approaches for clustering, minimizing impervious surfaces, and optimizing treatment and infiltration of runoff.

Acceptance and implementation of these strategies is, however, dependent on demonstrating the future impacts of current practices and comparing them to the potential benefits of alternative planning and design scenarios. Such information needs to be communicated to elected and appointed officials, regulatory agencies, developers, and other stakeholders.

Moodna Creek Rapid Bioassessment

In March 2004, Hudson Basin River Watch (HBRW) performed a rapid bioassessment on the Moodna Creek, in Orange County, NY. Physical, chemical, and biological data were collected once at four sites along the Creek. The assessment was conducted in part as a stream monitoring training workshop with the Moodna Watershed Coalition and to obtain water quality information for submission to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Priority Water Bodies List 305(b). The key results from this assessment include elevated phosphorus and nitrate nitrogen levels, excessive algae growth on the substrate, supersaturated dissolved oxygen levels, and an altered biological community. The findings from this study indicate that the Moodna Creek is stressed from an excessive amount of nutrients entering the system.

BACKGROUND

The Moodna is a 25 kilometer long creek that originates at the confluences of Cromline Creek and Otter Kill in Orange County, NY. The watershed encompasses some 468 square kilometers and the land use is comprised of approximately 28% open space, 36% urban residential area, 14% agricultural land, 4% urban commercial and industrial land, 14% miscellaneous public and private land, and 8% roadways (Orange County Water Authority). Potential threats to the watershed include wastewater and runoff from commercial wastewater treatment facilities, human impact from increasing land use and urbanization, stream bank erosion, and runoff from urban and residential areas. The NYS DEC stocks the Moodna and Woodbury Creek with trout and in 2003 there were 3,000 rainbow and 1,850 brown trout released. Surveyed sites of the Moodna Creek are classified as class C waters.

OVERVIEW OF PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL DATA

The Hudson Basin River Watch Rapid Bioassessment Program Quality Assurance Quality Control (QAQC) was developed and written following the EPA guidelines for volunteer stream monitoring programs and outlines in detail the study’s organization, objectives, volunteer training requirements, methods of data collection, documentation, analysis, and quality control. Physical site assessment, chemical analysis, and collection of macroinvertebrates were performed once at four sites on March 20, 2004. The overall habitat assessment rating ranged from good to fair, with current speeds of 0.5 – 1.3 meters/second, stream depth of 0.5—0.75 meters, and stream width of 30 – 40 meters. The pH was 7.5 – 8.0, alkalinity was 60 – 85 mg/l, turbidity was 2 – 5 FAU, conductivity was 410 – 540 μS/cm, nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N) was 1.3 – 2.4 mg/l, phosphate (P) was 0.05 – 0.11 mg/l, dissolved oxygen was 13.2 – 14.2 mg/l, water temperature was 5.5 – 8.5 degree Celsius and the dissolved oxygen percent saturation was 103 – 112.

DISCUSSION OF PHYSICAL, CHEMICAL, AND BIOLOGICAL DATA

During the physical assessment, anthropogenic alterations were found at each testing site that had the potential for adverse affects on the Moodna’s ability to maintain a healthy

benthic macroinvertebrate community. Alterations included poorly constructed and failing stream embankments, eroding stream embankments, and pipes discharging directly to the creek. Algae was also noted to cover 100% of the substrate at each site. Increases in nutrients, particularly in conjunction with abundant sunlight, can promote excessive growth of algae on the substrate. Alkalinity, pH, turbidity, water temperature, conductivity, and dissolved oxygen were all within NYS DEC water quality standards or biologically acceptable parameters. However, some of these parameters, such as dissolved oxygen, water temperature, and conductivity exhibit diel and seasonal variations which were not examined during this study. In particular, the data may not reflect each site’s lowest dissolved oxygen readings. Excessive amounts of algae and adequate light penetration during photosynthesis result in an increase in pH, dissolved oxygen concentration and oxygen saturation levels. Supersaturated dissolved oxygen was recorded at each site and the saturation levels appeared to increase throughout the day (103—112%), suggesting that photosynthetic activity is contributing to oxygenation of the water during the day; concordantly, algae (either short brown or filamentous green) was found covering 100% of the substrate at each testing site. On the day of collection the sky was overcast. The maximum photosynthetic rate of benthic algae is closely related to light intensity and may be several times higher in full sunlight. On a partly cloudy or clear day the Moodna’s dissolved oxygen saturation may be even higher than recorded during this study. Super saturation of oxygen in water is know to cause gas bubble trauma and death to fish (over-inflated swim bladders, exophthalmia, and bubbles in gill lamellae), as well as to adversely affect the macroinvertebrate community (Water Quality Guidelines, 2002). The US EPA recommends a maximum of 110% oxygen saturation to provide adequate protection of the aquatic life (EPA, 1987). Low oxygen concentration and saturation may still occur during the night when photosynthesis ceases, but plant and animal respiration continues, with the potential for a precipitous drop in the oxygen concentration of the water column. This can be detrimental to macroinvertebrate and fish species that have high oxygen requirements. Readings for phosphorus and nitrate-nitrogen were at or exceeded background levels and were high enough to promote excessive algae growth. Because of diel variations in nitrate levels, nocturnal levels of nitrates may be higher than levels during daylight hours. Total nitrogen levels exceeding background levels have been shown to have a deleterious effect on macroinvertebrates and fish communities, and, in fact, might influence the fish community as much as overall water quality does. Spawning redds are frequently located at ground water upwelling zones where, in agricultural areas, concentrations of nitrogen may be several times higher than elsewhere. These pools of concentrated nitrogen significantly increase mortality in brook trout embryos and reduce growth or biomass of brook trout in long- term exposures. The Biological Assessment Profile (BAP) indicates slightly-impacted water quality at all sites. The cobble, taken from the mid channel of the stream at site 4A, is representative of the green filamentous algae coating the substrate.

Even though the preferred time for kick sampling, in assessing water quality within the NYS DEC four-tiered assessment system, is July—September the individual metrics that comprise the BAP indicate an altered benthic macroinvertebrate community. Of the four sites assessed site 6 had the highest BAP score (see graph III, page 5) which is largely due to the addition or increase in the abundance of the Ephemeroptera Baetidae,

Ephemerellidae, and Isonychiidae and the Plecoptera Taeniopterygidae (in general these macroinvertebrate families are considered intolerant to pollutants). The absence and or decrease in abundance of these macroinvertebrate families at sites 1, 4A, and 9 indicate poorer water quality conditions when compared to site 6. Site 6 is located 3 kilometers downstream from site 4A and approximately 3/4 of a kilometer downstream from the confluence of the Woodbury Creek with the Moodna Creek. The macroinvertebrate community differences observed between site 4A and 6 suggest that the Woodbury Creek has a positive influence on the Moodna’s water quality although no testing of the Woodbury’s water quality was done during this survey.

The findings from this study indicate that the Moodna Creek is stressed from excessive nutrients which appear to be adversely affecting the aquatic biota, though the extent and duration of the problem are not evident by this study alone.

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

1. There is evidence that excessive nutrients are altering the chemical and biological profile of the stream reaches tested.

2. Supersaturation of the stream water with oxygen is present that can potentially affect the health of the fish and macroinvertebrates within the stream.

3. Longitudinal study, including pre-dawn chemical analysis and the inclusion of Woodbury Creek will help determine the degree and significance of the changes in the stream’s biota and intended uses.

3.4.2 The Hackensack-Passaic Basin

The Ramapo River is part of the Passaic River Basin which is located primarily in northeastern New Jersey. However, the northern headwaters of the basin lie within a small portion of southeastern Orange County, New York. The Hackensack River, Saddle River, Ramapo River and WanaqueRiver/Greenwood Lake are the primary tributary waters that make up the New York portion of the basin. The entire Passaic River Basin covers about 935 square miles before emptying into Newark Bay and then New York Harbor/Atlantic Ocean. Within New York state Passaic tributaries drain about 211 square miles in the southern Hudson River Highlands. The basin includes much of Rockland County and a small corner of Orange County.

There are about 320 miles of rivers and streams in the basin, including the Hackensack River and Ramapo River and 80-90 lakes and ponds. Many of the ponds are too small to be individually assessed, but 35 significant lake (larger than 6.4 acres), pond and reservoir waterbody segments (covering 5162 acres) are included in the Ramapo/Hackensack River Basin Waterbody Inventory. The two largest tributaries - the Ramapo and Hackensack Rivers - account for 155 miles (or 47%) and 74 miles (23%) of river/stream miles in the basin, respectively. The largest lakes in the basin are Greenwood Lake (1,075 acres in New York State) and DeForest Lake (720 acres).

The Ramapo River is a tributary of the Pompton River, approximately 30 mi (48 km) long, in southern New York and northern New Jersey in the United States. The Pompton River is a tributary of the Passaic River, approximately 8 mi (13 km) long, in northern New Jersey in the United States.

It rises in mountainous area of central Orange County, New York, near Monroe and flows southeast to Harriman, then south into western Rockland County, then into northern Bergen County, New Jersey. In New Jersey, it flows SSW, along the west side of the ridge of the Ramapo Mountains. It flows into Potash Lake in Oakland, NJ and officially ends at Pompton Lake in Pompton Lakes, NJ. The river is a popular destination for fly fishing of trout. The New York State Thruway follows the valley of the river in Orange County.

1. Water Quality Issues and Problems Water quality impacts in the New York State portion of the Ramapo/Hackensack River Drainage Basin are primarily the result of extensive urbanization and suburban/commercial development in the eastern, Rockland County half of the drainage area. Urban/stormwater runoff is the dominant source of water quality impacts. Municipal discharges are a second source of nutrient and other pollutant loadings; not surprising given the heavy population of the basin. In areas not served by municipal wastewater facilities, failing and/or inadequate on-site septic systems are a concern. Industrial and past hazardous waste site disposal are also noted as the source of some water quality impacts in the basin. In addition to addressing existing sources and restoring impacted waters, there is also widespread interest and support for protecting the highly valued water resources of the Ramapo/Hackensack River Basin. Of particular concern is the protection of drinking water resources. The larger tributaries in the basin – Hackensack, Ramapo and Mahwah Rivers – are a Class A waters designated for use as water supplies. In addition to the water supply use of these waters in New York State, most all of the waters in the basin feed into significant waster supply systems in New Jersey.

2. Urban/Industrial/CSO Runoff

Various recreational uses, aquatic life use support, and aesthetics in stretches of the urban/suburban waterways throughout the basin are significantly restricted by pollutants from various industrial, municipal, and commercial sources. The most significantly affected of these waterbodies are located in the highly developed New York City suburbs of Orange County. Urban storm runoff transports a variety of pollutants and debris into the waterways. Contaminated sediments, inactive hazardous waste sites and other impacts attributed to past/historic discharges also limit waterbody uses.

3. Commercial Development/Suburban Sprawl

Impacts on water supply resources, aquatic life and other uses due to increasing commercial and suburban residential development are of particular concern in the basin. Such development and the accompanying expansion of impervious surfaces results in more non-point runoff and increasing loadings of silt, nutrients and chlorides. Additional residential growth and accompanying wastewater impacts – be they individual on-site systems, cluster systems or smaller municipal facilities – also contribute to increased pollutant loadings.

4. Lake Eutrophication and Recreational Use Impacts

Eutrophication is a natural process that occurs as a lake ages and is not necessarily indicative of man-made pollution. However, when human activities (shoreline erosion, urban/argricultural runoff, wasterwater discharges or septic seepages) accelerate this process, it is known as cultural eutrophication. Such accelerated changes can alter plant and animal life within the lake, shoreline and surrounding watershed, and decrease the water quality and recreational value of a lake. The population growth and preponderance of small lakes in the basin result in the frequent occurrence of such impacts on recreational uses of basin lakes.

4. Groundwater Resources

Groundwater provides drinking water for about one-third of the population of New York State and is the sources of base flow for most rivers and streams in the state. Groundwater resources are particularly at risk in the watershed where large populations – in both New York and New Jersey – rely on wells for drinking water supply. In the basin, the more significant threats to groundwater resources include urban/stormwater runoff, inactive hazardous waste sites, chemical spills, deep-well injection and failing/inadequate on-site wastewater treatment systems. Table 3 is excerpted from the U.S. EPA site that indicates that the Village of Suffern has a Record of Decision for its well field.

3.5 CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT

The study area lies within the jurisdiction of the following Congressional Districts:

1) John Hall (D) – 19th Congressional District

2) Maurice Hinchey (D) – 22nd Congressional District

3.5 PRIOR REPORTS AND EXISTING PROJECTS

a. The following reports were being reviewed as a part of this study:

1) The Ramapo and Mahwah Rivers, Mahwah, New Jersey and Suffern, New York Flood Control Project is authorized for construction in Section 401 of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 1986 (Public Law 99-662) dated November 7, 1986. Flooding has occurred frequently, with flood events in 1968, 1971, 1973, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1983, 1984, 1987, 1996, and 1999. The 1977 and 1984 floods were the most severe causing extensive damages to the project area. Tropical Storm Floyd in September 1999 also caused significant damage. A detailed discussion on the history of the project and studies completed through 1987 can be found in the reports “Passaic River Basin, New Jersey and New York, Phase I – General Design Memorandum, Interim Report on Flood Protection Feasibility, Ramapo and Mahwah Rivers, Mahwah, New Jersey and Suffern, New York dated November 1983” and “Passaic River Basin, New Jersey and New York, Phase II – General Design Memorandum, Ramapo and Mahwah Rivers, Mahwah, New Jersey and Suffern, New York dated August 1987. The reports discuss the history and development of earlier

studies and their finding in relation to addressing the flood problems in the area. The final report was approved in September 1987. Plans and specifications were prepared and substantially complete in 1990. Construction funds were appropriated, but work was never initiated due to the lack of project cooperation agreements and questions on the cost of the project. Periodically, efforts were made by local stakeholders to restart the project and after severe flooding resulting from Tropical Storm Floyd in September 1999, the involved States, counties, and towns expressed a strong interest in resuming the project. Letters of support from New York and New Jersey documented the interest and requested an update of the project to determine whether further Federal interest was warranted. Funds were appropriated in Fiscal Years 2000 and 2001 and coordination with the interested parties was initiated. Initial efforts in 2003 and 2004 focused on having a new topographic survey developed and the existing conditions hydrology and hydraulic analyses prepared. The effort was started as a Limited Reevaluation Report since the goal was to update just the original authorized project. Coordination and field studies indicated that a General Reevaluation Report (GRR) was more appropriate as the project may have changed enough to warrant a review of other alternatives such as levees, floodwalls, and use of a quarry for floodwater storage.

2) Section 205 Program Initial Appraisal Report, Moodna Creek, New Windsor is authorized by the Continuing Authorities Program, Section 205 by the Flood Control Act of 1948, as amended. The study area of concern for this Initial Appraisal Report (IAR) is New Windsor, Orange County, New York.

The IAR investigated if there was potential Federal interest in response to the flooding of Moodna Creek that causes backwater flows into the New Windsor Sewage Treatment Plant, which overtops the sedimentation tanks at the effluent end. This overtopping threatens the structural stability of the sedimentation lagoon and it allows the discharge of partially treated sewage into Moodna Creek, which is a serious environmental issue. Flooding also occurs within occupied portions of the facility. A flood control project could potentially prevent the flooding of the plant and reduce subsequent environmental damage.

Based on the review of Corps guidance and regulations, discussions with the local interest, and site investigations, Federal interest to proceed to the Feasibility phase exists. There appears to be authority under Section 205 (33 U.S.C. 701s) of the Continuing Authorities Program for this project. However, lack of a non-Federal sponsor will keep the project from moving forward. In the future, depending on changed conditions, local preferences, planning constraints, funding availability and Corps governing policies and regulations, a decision on assessing further Federal involvement could be revisited, as warranted.

3.6 PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION:

This section describes needs in the context of problems and opportunities that can be addressed through water and related land resource management. During the April 2007 nor’easter, many faster reacting streams and smaller rivers were flooded across the region and were at or near crest. Persons living along slower reacting large steams and rivers saw rises and flooding through the week. These rivers and streams were sensitive to additional rainfall. The April 2007 storm event lasted four (4) days with rainfall exceeding 10.82 inches.

The most serious flooding occurred in the municipality of Washingtonville due to flooding of the Moodna Creek and Otter kill Creek. However, the “Black Dirt” region of Orange County was also impacted due to flooding from the Wallkill River. There exists a study resolution/congressional authorization for the Corps to study flood risk management and other allied purposes for the Wallkill River. However, there is no existing study resolution or congressional authorization that would allow for the initiation of a Corps study on Flood Risk Management or other allied purposes for the Moodna Creek or the Otter Creek. The Moodna Creek rose 7.5 feet on the first day of the April 2007 storm event

The Village of Washingtonville was severely impacted by the 15 April Nor’easter. Flooding form the Moodna Creek and Otter kill Creek impacted the Village during this storm event and in the past as well. Moodna Creek in Washingtonville, New York overtopped its banks and caused significant flooding throughout the Village of Washingtonville, flooding both Route 94 and Route 208. Many trailers in the Brookside Acres and Washingtonville Manor mobile home parks in the village were evacuated because of flooding. Additionally, more than a dozen homes along route 94 appeared flooded.

Emergency declarations were issued for the Town of Deerpark, Town of Blooming Grove, Village of Washingtonville, Village of Greenwood Lake, and the Village of South Blooming Grove. Road closures were realized in the Town of Newburgh, Town of Blooming Grove, Town of Cornwall, Town of Crawford, Town of Deerpark, Town of Wallkill, Village of Walden, Village of Monroe, Town of Mount Hope, Town of Greenville, Town of Minisink, Village of Washingtonville, Village of Otisville, Town of Tuxedo, Village of Montgomery, Town of Chester, Town of Goshen, Town of Montgomery, and the Town of Hamptonburgh.

Overview of Flooding Issues in the Study Area  Moodna Creek – throughout Orange County  Otter kill Creek – throughout Orange County  Ramapo River – throughout southeast Orange County

Representatives of the County, Towns and Villages of Orange County stated that the major water resource problem experienced is streambank erosion that causes sediment build-up in the associated streams and tributaries. This sediment build-up has the causal flooding effect. Further the streams have channelized and have subsequently been re- routed. Flooding has increased in frequency, duration, and magnitude over the last decade that has caused mostly basement and first floor flooding/damages and road closures. During the April 2007 storm event, Route 94, a major evacuation route was closed due to flooding. Further, Route 208, a major transportation artery, was closed due to river overtopping.

Representatives at the meeting recommended that flood plain management (although a local responsibility) would be required in conjunction with a comprehensive flood damage reduction study. It was reported that Orange County has been working with FEMA and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to update the flood plain maps for the County. Preliminary data acquired indicate that many structures in Orange County are within the 100 year flood plain.

The following were indicated as specific areas of concern and/or damages during the April 2007 nor’easter.

. Moodna Creek at Hudson River: at Windsor and Cornwall (at Route 9W) the tidal influence was observed to be 2.5 – 3ft along the Moodna. Therefore, causing bank erosion problems at the Butterhill Estates (at Route 44 & Forgehill Road). Butterhill Estates are private residences in the Town of New Windsor. . County Bridge: the County Bridge has been replaced within the last 10 years. However, due to repeated flooding, the pylons are being inspected by New York State Department of Department of Transportation for damages.

a. April 2007 nor’easter road closures and emergency declarations:

EMERGENCY DECLARATIONS:

. Town of Blooming Grove . Village of Washingtonville . Village of Greenwood Lake . Village of South Blooming Grove

ROAD CLOSURES:

Town of Newburgh

-Gardnertown Road near Black Angus and the area near the old swamp on the Lakeside Rd

-Chestnut Lane near Catalpa is down to one lane and is coned off

-Lester Road just off 9w is coned off and down to one lane due to a downed tree.

-Albany Post Road is closed between Crest and Sloane

-Powder Mill Road near #29 is closed due to trees on wires over roadway.

-Lattintown Road at Candlestick Trailer park has a tree blocking the roadway.

-Innis Avenue at Route 52

-Lockwood Lane, tree in road

Town of Blooming Grove

-Mountain Lodge and Perry Creek

-Tuthill Road between Willow Creek and Route 208

-Route 208 South of Clove Road

-Prospect btwn Round Hill and Peddler Hill Road

-Peddler Hill Road btwn Route 208 and Tanager

-Route 94 and Orrs Mills Road

Town of Cornwall

-Reservoir Road is closed

-Hudson Street btwn North Hudson and Maple

Village of Walden

-St Andrews Road between Route 52 and Plains Road

Village of Monroe

-East Mombasha and Orange Turnpike

Village of Washingtonville

-Cardinal and Peacock

-Cardinal and Woodcock Mountain Road

-Route 94 btwn Patricia and Hudson

-Patricia and Beverly Lanes

Town of Tuxedo

-Warwick Brook Road btwn 17 and County Route 84

-Route 17 and Jesses Bagels

-Arden Valley Road and Route 17- by Police Station

-Arden Valley Road at International Paper

Village of Montgomery

-Route 211 and E Kaisertown

Town of Chester

-Kings Highway and

Town of Goshen

-Route 17A at Quarry Road

-Everett Road

Town of Montgomery

-Canning Road and Route 416

Town of Hamptonburgh

-Maybrook Road near Neelytown Road

b. Tuxedo Park

The village was incorporated in 1952. "Tuxedo Park Historic District" was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on 1980-03-13. The village is located near the border of Rockland County, New York and is in the Ramapo Mountains. Tuxedo Park is located at 41°12′5″N, 74°12′6″W (41.201461, -74.201668).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 3.2 square miles (8.4 km²), of which, 2.7 square miles (6.9 km²) of it is land and 0.6 square miles (1.4 km²) of it (17.03%) is water. As of the census of 2000, there were 731 people, 291

households, and 215 families residing in the village. The population density was 272.9 people per square mile (105.3/km²). There were 363 housing units at an average density of 135.5/sq mi (52.3/km²).

Lakes, reservoirs, and swamps: Spruce Pond, Little Long Pond, Little Dam Lake, Mountain Lake, Green Pond, Kloibers Pond, Island Pond, Eagle Lake.

Streams, rivers, and creeks: Arden Brook, Indian Kill, Summit Brook, Surebridge Brook, Warwick Brook, Stahahe Brook.

Coordinates: 41°12′5″N 74°12′6″W

- Total 3.2 sq mi (8.4 km²) - Land 2.7 sq mi (6.9 km²) - Water 0.6 sq mi (1.4 km²) - Elevation 407 ft (124 m) - Total 731 - Density 272.9/sq mi (105.4/km²)

The rail tracks that run through the Town of Tuxedo act as a levee for the Ramapo River. Flooding has occurred frequently on the Ramapo River, with flood events in 1968, 1971, 1973, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1983, 1984, 1987, 1996, 1999 and 2007. The 1977 and 1984 floods were the most severe causing extensive damages to the project area. Tropical Storm Floyd in September 1999 also caused significant damage.

During the April 2007 storm event, it was reported that 8-9 houses have been affected by flood damages along River Road. Further, approximately 90% of the total 75-80 houses have been affected during the floods in the East Village. It was also reported that SOS fuels in this area has indicated repeated flood damages, totaling $150,000 for the April 2007 storm event and approximately $250,000 of damages after Hurricane Floyd. Although the railroad in the area acts as a levee, the highway (New York State Thruway) still will be under flood conditions after a storm event. Further, the highway acts a pass through during storm events, providing runoff and sediment to the river.

The Town representatives indicated that the Ramapo River in Tuxedo Park was last dredged (by a clamshell bucket dredge) back in the early 1960’s by the Town. However, due to sedimentation the River has decreased in depth and therefore, temperatures have increased. Due to this increase in temperature, the River may no longer support fish species such as rockbass, trout, catfish, sunfish, and perch. Recreational fishing in the Town has decreased since the fish population is not longer supported by lower water temperatures in the River.

Additional damages in the Town of Tuxedo were reported for the wastewater treatment plant due to flooding. During the April 2007 nor’easter, it was reported that the Ramapo Iron Works dam was “blown out” and the wastewater treatment plant’s pump station and

wet wells were inundated by flood waters, causing serious damages to electrical devices and appurtenances.

Further, emergency services must be located outside of the floodplain area so they can respond without being inundated by flood waters themselves. The issue with the emergency services being located outside of the subject area is increased response time.

It should be noted that the population of Tuxedo Park, Orange County, New York is approximately 3,000. However, 80% of Tuxedo Park is designated as State Park land. Therefore, 100% of the population resides in 20% of the Town, thereby increasing the population density affected by flood damages.

For additional information of flood issues in the Town of Tuxedo, please refer to ‘Ramapo River Flooding Effects on East Village Road Bridge and Lucky Bridge – Preliminary Engineering Study, March 2006 prepared by H2M Group.’

Town of New Windsor

No actual flooding was reported during the April 2007 nor’easter. However, mitigation projects for hazard mitigation have totaled over $5 million for the Town of Windsor. The Town of Windsor has a population of approximately 8,000 that historically experience minor to major flooding during even minor storms.

Flooding of Moodna Creek causes backwater flows into the New Windsor Sewage Treatment Plant, which overtops the sedimentation tanks at the effluent end. This overtopping threatens the structural stability of the sedimentation lagoon and it allows the discharge of partially treated sewage into Moodna Creek, which is a serious environmental issue. Flooding also occurs within occupied portions of the facility. A flood control project could potentially prevent the flooding of the plant and reduce subsequent environmental damage.

Town of Cornwall

Creek, therefore causing flooding conditions on the road. It is noted that approximately $500,000 is being provided for hazard mitigation purposes for the Town of Cornwall (for Canterbury Creek watershed).

Further, during the April 2007 nor’easter a privately owned bridge was completely destroyed. No information was provided as to the design or construction of the destroyed bridge.

Town of Woodbury

Woodbury Creek continues south through the Town and Village of Woodbury (above flood stage conditions during storm events). At Woodbury, the Creek splits into the Ramapo River in southeast Orange County. The river follows the railroad out of Cromwell Lake.

The Woodbury Creek (that is 20 feet wide prior to the split) goes through a six (6) foot wide creek. During storm events and flood conditions, this confluence is a restriction for flood water, causing back flooding for the area. This area at the confluence of Woodbury Creek and Ramapo River includes residential estates including a trailer park at Route 32 and Timberidge. Further, there has been a dramatic increase in development in the Town of Woodbury, causing more drainage into the Woodbury Creek. Although the new developments have retention, it was indicated that there is simply too much water draining into the Woodbury Creek that is already flowing full under normal flow conditions. To exacerbate this runoff, the Town of Woodbury and Woodbury Creek is located in a valley, east of Route 32.

Further, Woodbury Creek is designated a trout spawning stream, providing cold water trout for recreational fishing. There exists an active “sportsman association” for the Woodbury Creek Trout fishing provides a recreational income for the Town of Woodbury and Orange County. However, flood conditions of the creek not only effect trout spawning, but subsequently the possible income for the Town and County.

Additionally, Woodbury Creek has been plagued by debris. The New York State Department of Environmental Protection has issued permits to allow the debris to be removed in the past. However, Woodbury Creek continues to accumulate debris. The cause of this debris accumulation was not provided.

Mountainville & Cornwall

Representatives indicated that in this area, three (3) municipal wells were submerged due to the April 2007 storm event and an alternate potable water source had to be obtained. The municipal wells were out of public service for approximately two (2) weeks while laboratory testing was conducted. Further, the representatives indicated that a section of Taylor Road was “wiped-out.”

The Moodna continues through the Town of Cornwall and Blooming Grove where, at the town line, an on-going debris problem has been reported.

Village of Washingtonville

In the Village of Washingtonville, there exists a privately owned electric plant in the vicinity of CR 27 and CR 20. The electric plant owns a 30 ft high dam that has the causal effect of back-flooding Washingtonville during storm events. It is noted that there is only one route into the Town of Washingtonville and only one route out of Washingtonville.

During the April 2007 storm event, it was reported that storm water was backing up out of the storm drains, providing 3-4 feet of flood waters into the streets, and subsequently structures. Evacuations were reported on Patricia Lane that realized approximately nine (9) feet of water in the basements of the structures. Route 94, a major transportation arterial was under water and closed to traffic. Additionally, the town ballfield was reportedly flooded with 4.5-5 feet of water as was the adjacent trailer park. The trailer park was evacuated to the Village’s elementary school. Approximately 75% of the Village of Washingtonville was without power for about three (3) days due to the storm damage. Further, approximately 1,100 people were residing in shelters during and immediately after the storm event.

The last time the Village of Washingtonville flooded was in 1955 until the April 2007 nor’easter. The flooding during Floyd occurred during a drought event. It was reported that, after Hurricane Floyd in 1999, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) conducted a buyout of approximately 9-10 homes. However, it was indicated by Village representatives that the April 2007 flooding was significantly worse than during Hurricane Floyd.

In addition, in January 1996, due to snow melt, some flooding was reported as was ice jams near cardinal lane that was washed out. Further, during the January 1996 event, some flooding and associated flood damages were reported for the Woodbury Creek near Bernadette and Route 94. Damages were also reported to the wastewater treatment plant, where the Village of Washingtonville and FEMA funded a portion of the damages.

Further, it was noted that approximately 30-50 years ago, the Corps of Engineers were involved investigating flood damages in the area of Patricia, Beverly and Cardinal Drive area in Washingtonville. Review of files will need to be conducted for additional information on the Corps’ involvement in this area. However, it was reported by Village representatives that FEMA, under the hazard mitigation program, bought out and removed seven (7) homes. It was indicated that Flo Schwartz of NRCS has additional information, such as financial and hydrology data.

Just east of Washingtonville, there is a County owned dam at Beaver Lake. The County has developed an emergency action plan. However, if dam fails, the water would flow directly into the Moodna and subsequently, the flood waters would severely impact the Village of Washingtonville.

Town of Blooming Grove

Representatives from the Town of Blooming Grove indicated that there is a community called Mt. Lodge Park that includes 950-980 houses. The community reports steep terrain and a shallow depth to bedrock. The community is defined by private homes and private roadways. The damage to these private structures is due to high velocity flood waters from the steep terrain. Further, due to the shallow depth to bedrock, the flood waters don’t infiltrate, thereby causing flood damage events. Damage to the private roadways hinders the service during emergency situations.

Flood damages from Perry Creek were indicated as a recurrent storm induced water resource problem. Not only was significant flooding reported from Perry Creek, but also road closures. Reported road closures due to Perry Creek include Mountain Lodge Road, CR 27 and CR 208. It should be noted that stormwater management structures are not available in these areas. Further, it was reported that Perry Creek has lost its definition. The Creek’s banks and trails have eroded to the point that they now act as feeder streams to Perry Creek.

Of particular interest is that the Town of Blooming Grove reports a seasonal water supply. When the temperature is above 33 degrees Fahrenheit, the above ground pipes provide potable water to the residents of the Town. However, since the pipes are constructed above ground, storm damaging waters during flood events compromise the Town’s potable water supply during warmer temperatures.

In a letter dated 12 October 2007, the Village Engineer indicated that the Town has experienced frequent flooding in the last 15 years as a result of the Moodna Creek overflowing its banks. These floods have impacted residents, businesses and municipal facilities causing millions of dollars of damage.

Village of South Blooming Grove

Satterly Creek is a tributary of the Moodna Creek and is the main stream that flows through the Village of Blooming Grove. At 3:45 am on 15 April 2007, the private dam in Tanager burst, emptying the Orange/Rockland Lake and flooding communities down gradient. The “Tanager” dam is a private dam, whose failure caused much flood damage to property and infrastructure during the April 2007 storm event. Flood waters took the dam out completely, including 10 feet on either side of the spillway. Failure of the dam due to high velocity of flood water caused a state of emergency for approximately four (4) days. Damages included the spillway, the community ballfield (under four feet of water), homes with not only flood water damage but mud and, CR 94.

the Satterly Creek were required to be evacuated by boat as the sandbags could not keep the rising flood waters out of the residential structures.

Satterly Creek is designated as a trout spawning stream (Moodna is designated as Class C by New York State), providing cold water trout for recreational fishing. Trout fishing provides a recreational income for the Blooming Grove and Orange County. However, flood conditions of the creek not only effect trout spawning, but subsequently the possible income for the Village and County.

Further, the Moodna Creek has its confluence with the Cromline Creek through Blooming Grove and into the Town of Chester. Tomahawk Lake is a lake located in the town of Blooming Grove. It is an artificial lake, created in 1929 by damming Cromline Creek, which converges with Otter Kill elsewhere in the town to form Moodna Creek, a tributary of the Hudson River. Although public roads pass and in one case cross over it, it is privately owned by the homeowners' association, and access both as a water supply and recreational resource is restricted to its members.

It is 150 acres (60 ha) in area. Recently a 30 acre (12 ha) section of the lake became infested with water chestnuts and had to be treated with pesticide. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation found in 2006 that the dam (designated as a high hazard dam – highest in county) had not been operated safely, lacked an emergency action plan and had been repaired in the past without a required construction permit.

Town of Hamptonburgh

In the Town of Hamptonburgh, where the Moodna Creek has it’s confluence with the Otter Kill, it was reported that CR 4 and McBride Lane were closed due to flood waters. It was noted that there is a dam at the Old Borden Dairy and Creamery that has no flow control in the Town of Hamptonburgh. Due to this lack of flow control, it has been observed that flood waters have closed Station Road at Patricia Lane, Twin Arch Road at Old Grist Mill (historic road).

Additionally, in the Town of Hamptonburgh, there is an EPA Superfund site that is adjacent to CR 4.

Town of Chester

Cromline Creek Water District, located in the Town of Chester, reported that the pump house at their pumping station repeatedly floods during storm events. However, representatives indicated that no significant flooding has been experienced in the Town of Chester. However, several private residences have reported some flooding during storm events in the Black Meadow Creek area and road closures on Black Meadow Road.

Village of Maybrook

Although the above referenced Superfund site is located in the Town of Blooming Grove, the production wells located in the Village of Maybrook are in the vicinity of the groundwater contaminant plume. The Otter kill Creek flows through the Superfund site into Maybrook. The Otter kill Creek in Maybrook starts as a wetland outside of the Village and through the Village waste water treatment plant (the lowest point in the Village). The waste water treatment plant discharges to the Otter kill’s wetlands at this point. The wetlands in this area are highly silted due to the waste water treatment plant’s discharge elevation and the Otter kill Creek’s elevation at this point. The Village is currently attempting to acquire a Section 404 and Section 406 funds from FEMA for mitigation. Approximately $300,000 in damages has been reported for the wastewater treatment plant to date. However, it was indicated that it would require over $1,000,000 to resolve the issue that are causing the flooding and creating damages. A normal, 1-inch rainfall creates flooding issues for the Village of Maybrook.

The Otter kill continues through the Town of Goshen. No flood damages have been reported with the Otter kill in the Town of Goshen since 90% of parcels are agricultural, horse farms and single family homes on large parcels of land.

Additional Reported Data

. During periods of high water, the Wallkill reverses flow and drains into the Otter kill at CR 207, causing a flooding event.

. There has been significant development along the Moodna, thereby creating more structures and property damaged during storm events.

c. Washingtonville

The Village of Washingtonville, located in Orange County, was severely impacted by the 15 April Nor’Easter. Flooding from the Moodna Creek and Otter kill Creek impacted the Village during this event and in the past as well. No study resolution or other Corps stand-alone authority exists for this area, however, a Section 205 Continuing Authority Project could be initiated without further Congressional action.

April 2007 Event:

Moodna Creek in Washingtonville, NY (Orange County) overtopped its banks and caused significant flooding throughout the Village of Washingtonville. In a letter dated 12 October 2007, the Village Engineer states that the Village has experienced frequent flooding in the last 15 years as a result of the Moodna Creek overflowing its banks. These floods have impacted residents, businesses and municipal facilties causing millions of dollars in damages. Representatives stated that Moodna Creek flooded both Route 94 and Route 208 during the April 2007 storm event. Many trailers in the Brookside Acres and Washingtonville Manor mobile home parks in the village were evacuated because of flooding. The three baseball diamonds at May’s Field in Washingtonville were covered with water from the creek, and more than a dozen homes along Route 94 appeared to be flooded.

c. Village of South Blooming Grove

The representatives from the Village of South Blooming Grove reported that during the April 2007 nor’easter, a private dam gave way and caused detrimental impacts downstream. The dam failure impacted and damaged the Peddler Hill dam, thereby flooding residents downstream. The areas most affected by the failure of the dam include, but are not limited to, Peddler Hill roadway and dam, Stonegrate Drive, Lakeside Drive, Merriewold Lake dam’s spillway, and Rolling Hills baseball field.

Monetary damages for the above damages include $275,000 for Peddler Hill roadway and dam and an estimated $125,000 for damages associated with Merriewold dam spillway.

Representatives indicated that no prior studies have been conducted by any level of government to address any of the water resource problems in the past nor have any prior projects been constructed in the affected areas.

Currently, FEMA is providing assistance to the Village of South Blooming Grove for the payment of repairs of Peddler Hill road and dam and the dredging of the stream bed.

3.7 SUMMARY OF GENERAL PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION & OPPORTUNITIES

1. Problem Identification: The water resources problem to be solved is that the current hydrologic regimes of the rivers and streams in the watersheds within Orange County cause erosion and repeated flood damages to public and private property, to infrastructure, and constitute threats to human life. The continued sediment transport results in ecosystem degradation and impacts the economy and recreational features of these watersheds. The causes of these problems can be ascribed to the following suite of factors:

a) Reduced Stream Capacity: Due to sediment aggradation throughout the county, erosion of streambanks and uncontrolled sediment transport, primary and secondary channels are filling with sediment. The severe bank erosion results in changes in channel dimension as well as horizontal movement of the channels, which results in a loss of vegetation, wash-out of roadways and other infrastructure and loss of public and private lands. Erosion is the main causal agent for sediment accumulation and ecosystem degradation within the county and it contributes to flooding in the area through restriction of channel capacities. The sandbars and islands that form in the river cause changes in the hydraulic regime and result in reduced flood capacity and lead to flooding, erosion and loss of habitat. This condition is expected to continue and worsen in the without project future condition. This problem is found throughout the sub-watersheds in Orange County.

b) Flooding is also a major concern expressed by the public - Flooding occurs throughout the county and causes significant damages in populated areas and appears to be worsened by the reduced channel capacity discussed above. The situation would likely worsen in without project future conditions. Recent severe floods in the Orange County watershed have caused damages to homes, businesses, infrastructure and natural features including streambanks, channels and associated habitat. Severe storms have caused flood conditions in the Watershed in 1971, 1972, 1984, 1999 and April 2007. The following chronicles the FEMA Disaster Declarations (for Individual Assistance [IA] and Public Assistance [PA]) for Orange County as related to storm events that created water resource issues:

April 2007 nor’easter (1692 DR)

 Declaration Date: 3 May 2007  Incident Date: 14-18 April 2007  Orange, Rockland, and Westchester Counties for Public Assistance (already designated for Individual Assistance.)  Albany, Columbia, Dutchess, Essex, Greene, Putnam, Schoharie, Suffolk, and Ulster Counties for Public Assistance.  Albany, Dutchess, and Richmond Counties for Individual Assistance.

Hurricane Floyd (1296 DR)

 Declaration Date: September 19, 1999  Incident Period: September 15-18, 1999  IA and PA: Albany, Essex, Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Ulster, Westchester  PA only: Nassau, Schoharie, Suffolk, Warren  IA only: Dutchess, Rensselaer, Schenectady

Flooding – Southeastern NY (0702 DR)

 Declaration Date: April 17, 1984  IA and PA: Nassau, Orange, Rockland, Suffolk, Westchester  PA only: Bronx, Kings, New York, Queens, Richmond, Sullivan, Ulster

Tropical Storm Agnes (0338 DR)

 Declaration Date: June 23, 1972  IA and PA: Allegany, Broome, Cattaraugus, Cayuga, Chautauqua, Chemung, Chenango, Livingston, Madison, Monroe, Oneida, Onondaga, Ontario, Orange, Oswego, Rockland, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Tioga, Tompkins, Ulster, Wayne, Westchester, Wyoming, Yates

Severe Storms and Flooding (0311 DR)

 Declaration Date: September 13, 1971  PA only: Bronx, Dutchess, Kings, Nassau, New York, Orange, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk, Ulster, Westchester

c) Obstructions of the channel are found throughout the county. These obstructions are typically in the form of debris jams, large trees, and culverts and can cause a “damming” effect upstream of the obstruction. During flood conditions, these blockages can exacerbate flood damages to property. This problem is expected to continue and possibly worsen in the without project future condition.

d) The degradation of the ecosystems of the watersheds throughout the County has also been raised as a concern by the public. Ecosystem degradation within the county as a whole is significantly increased by erosion and sedimentation. As erosion driven sediment accumulates the channel dimensions and depth decrease. The erosion negatively impacts flora and fauna in the study area, especially aquatic species such as Brown Trout. In addition, development pressure has reduced the availability of riparian buffer species. This trend is expected to continue in the without project future condition.

2. Opportunities. Opportunities exist throughout the Orange County Watershed study area to address the problems of fluvial flood damages, streambank erosion, sediment aggradation, and ecosystem degradation. Local interests have expressed the urgency of working together to find long-term comprehensive solutions.

3.8.1 PLANNING OBJECTIVES:

The objectives of National Economic Development and National Ecosystem Restoration are general statements and not specific enough for direct use in plan formulation. The water and related land resource problems and opportunities identified in this study are stated as specific planning objectives to provide focus for the formulation of alternatives. These planning objectives reflect the problems and opportunities and represent desired positive changes in the without project conditions. The planning objectives are specified as follows:

1) To reduce flood damages throughout the populated centers of Orange County, NY.

2) To reduce bank erosion and attendant sediment accumulation and stream aggradation throughout the Orange County Watershed.

3) To improve ecosystem habitats, water quality and riparian buffers.

3.9 PLANNING CONSTRAINTS:

Unlike planning objectives that represent desired positive changes, planning constraints represent restrictions that should not be violated. The planning constraints are as follows:

1) Compliance with local land use plans

2) Avoid negative effects on habitat of Federal and State threatened and endangered species within the study area;

3) Plans cannot unreasonably impact environmental or cultural resources; and

4) Flood damage reduction measures must not induce flooding to other unprotected areas either upstream or downstream.

3.10 RECOMMENDATION

Watershed Approach – Systems Analysis: In a watershed feasibility study, multiple projects may be recommended to contribute to the overall improvement of the watershed system, including environmental river restoration and flood damage reduction. Each of these projects can be evaluated as a part of an overall comprehensive approach to the restoration of the watershed. An individual project may not be able to significantly improve the watershed health or reduce flood damages by itself; however, a watershed feasibility study may recommend a series of projects that together will improve watershed health and reduce flood damages by way of a systems approach.

Watershed Management Plan: A Watershed Management Plan (an appendix to the Watershed Feasibility Study) will provide a planning tool for the region evaluating all inputs to the watershed including minor tributaries and culverts. This document will include recommendations for best management practices (BMP’s) in the watershed that can be implemented by local and Federal agencies.

The discussion above indicates that alternatives that provide flood risk management, ecosystem restoration and watershed management would have the greatest potential for implementation. The overall watershed improvements following river restoration will include improved ecosystem function, improved habitat, stable streambanks, stable channels, more consistent flow, temperature and depth. The potential ecosystem benefits (in habitat units) from a system of projects as recommended by the watershed feasibility study would likely be greater than the costs of those projects. The potential magnitude and types of benefits from the proposed actions would include National Economic Development, Regional Economic Development, Other Social Effects, and

Environmental Quality. Likewise, the environmental effects are dependent upon the scope and magnitude of the solution.

APPENDIX A MAPS

APPENDIX B STUDY RESOLUTION

APPENDIX C PUBLIC NOTICE

APPENDIX D TRIP REPORTS

Summary: Orange County has experienced numerous water resource problems along the main stem and the associated tributaries of the Moodna Creek, Otter Creek and the Ramapo River that are typically affected by flooding during heavy rain events over the past several years including streambank erosion, agradation, sedimentation, deposition, blockages, environmental degradation, water quality and especially flooding. However, since October 2005, the flooding issues have severely increased and flooding continues during storm events that may or may not be considered significant. Areas affected as a result of creek flows are documented in the attached trip reports.

Throughout the Orange County watershed, site visits confirmed opportunities to stabilize the eroding or threatened banks restore the riparian habitat while controlling sediment transport and improving water quality, and balance the flow regime.

If the local municipalities choose to request Federal involvement, there are several options, depending on their budget, desired timeframe and intended results. The most viable options include a specifically authorized watershed study or program, an emergency streambank protection project (Section 14 of the Continuing Authorities Program), or pursing reimbursement from the New York City Watershed Program (Sec 552 or WRDA 1996).

A watershed study focusing on restoration of the Moodna Creek, Otter Creek, Ramapo River and their associated tributaries could address various problems using a systematic approach.

Karen Ashton, P.E. Plan Formulation Branch Planning Division

ORANGE COUNTY NEW YORK Moodna Basin and Tributaries

TRIP REPORT (MEMORANDUM FOR RECORD)

US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS NEW YORK DISTRICT

SUBJECT: Trip Report Orange County, Moodna Basin, New York DATE: 28 November 2007 TIME: 9:30am LOCATION: Newhampton, New York 10958 Orange County Fire Training Center PURPOSE: To conduct reconnaissance in Orange County with respect to the Comprehensive Documentation Report as authorized by the Supplemental Appropriation Disaster Declaration for the April 2007 storm event. ATTENDEES: See Attached Attendance Sheet

SUMMARY OF 28 NOVEMBER 2008 MEETING

The most serious flooding occurred in the municipality of Washingtonville due to flooding of the Moodna Creek and Otterkill Creek. However, the “Black Dirt” region of Orange County was also impacted due to flooding from the Wallkill River. There exists a study resolution/congressional authorization to all the Corps to study flood risk management and other allied purposes for the Wallkill River. However, there is no existing study resolution or congressional authorization that would allow for the initiation of a Corps study on Flood Risk Management or other allied purposes for the Moodna Creek or the Otter Creek.

Orange County predominantly straddles three (3) watersheds, the Hudson-Wappinger watershed, the Hackensack-Passaic watershed and a minimal portion of the Lower Hudson watershed. The 28 November 2007 meeting indicated that the Moodna Creek, the Otterkill Creek and the Ramapo River (and their associated tributaries) provide the greatest area of concern for the Comprehensive Response Report. A separate meeting (and consequently, Trip Report) was conducted for the Ramapo River Basin.

The Village of Washingtonville was severely impacted by the 15 April Nor’easter. Flooding form the Moodna Creek and Otterkill Creek impacted the Village during this storm event and in the past as well. Moodna Creek in Washingtonville, New York overtopped its banks and caused significant flooding throughout the Village of Washingtonville, flooding both Route 94 and Route 208. Many trailers in the Brookside Acres and Washingtonville Manor mobile home parks in the village were evacuated because of flooding. Additionally, more than a dozen homes along route 94 appeared flooded.

Wallkill, Village of Walden, Village of Monroe, Town of Mount Hope, Town of Greenville, Town of Minisink, Village of Washingtonville, Village of Otisville, Town of Tuxedo, Village of Montgomery, Town of Chester, Town of Goshen, Town of Montgomery, and the Town of Hamptonburgh.

Overview of Flooding Issues in Rockland County

 Moodna Creek – throughout Orange County  Otterkill Creek – throughout Orange County  Ramapo River – throughout southeast Orange County

Representatives of the County, Towns and Villages of Orange County stated that the major water resource problem experienced is streambank erosion that causes sediment build-up in the associated streams and tributaries. This sediment build-up has the causal flooding effect. Further the streams have channelized and have subsequently been re- routed. The representatives did not indicate loss of life during recent storm events. However, flooding has increased in frequency, duration, and magnitude over the last decade that has caused mostly basement and first floor flooding/damages and road closures. During the April 2007 storm event, Route 94, a major evacuation route was closed due to flooding. Further, Route 208, a major transportation artery, was closed due to river overtopping.

The following were indicated as specific areas of concern and/or damages during the April 2007 nor’easter.

Town of New Windsor

No actual flooding was reported during the April 2007 nor’easter. However, mitigation projects for hazard mitigation have totaled over $5 million for the Town of Windsor. The

Town of Windsor has a population of approximately 8,000 that historically experience minor to major flooding during even minor storms.

Town of Cornwall

The first major body of water entering the Moodna Creek in the Town of Cornwall is the Woodbury Creek (parallel to State Road 32). During the April 2007 nor’easter, lane closures of SR 32 were experienced due to flooding of the road. Representatives indicated that the runoff from the mountains and drainage have no place to go in the Creek, therefore causing flooding conditions on the road. It is noted that approximately $500,000 is being provided for hazard mitigation purposes for the Town of Cornwall (for Canterbury Creek watershed).

Further, during the April 2007 nor’easter a privately owned bridge was completely destroyed. No information was provided as to the design or construction of the destroyed bridge.

Town of Woodbury

Mountainville & Cornwall

The Moodna continues through the Town of Cornwall and Blooming Grove where, at the town line, an on-going debris problem has been reported.

Town of Washingtonville

In the town of Washingtonville, there exists a privately owned electric plant in the vicinity of CR 27 and CR 20. The electric plant owns a 30 ft high dam that has the causal effect of back-flooding Washingtonville during storm events. It is noted that there is only one route into the Town of Washingtonville and only one route out of Washingtonville.

During the April 2007 storm event, it was reported that storm water was backing up out of the storm drains, providing 3-4 feet of flood waters into the streets, and subsequently structures. Evacuations were reported on Patricia Lane that realized approximately nine (9) feet of water in the basements of the structures. Route 94, a major transportation arterial was under water and closed to traffic. Additionally, the town ballfield was reportedly flooded with 4.5-5 feet of water as was the adjacent trailer park. The trailer park was evacuated to the Town’s elementary school. Approximately 75% of the Village of Washingtonville was without power for about three (3) days due to the storm damage. Further, approximately 1,100 people were residing in shelters during and immediately after the storm event.

The last time the Town of Washingtonville flooded was in 1955 until the April 2007 nor’easter. The flooding during Floyd occurred during a drought event. It was reported that, after Hurricane Floyd in 1999, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) conducted a buyout of approximately 9-10 homes. However, it was indicated by Town representatives that the April 2007 flooding was significantly worse than during Hurricane Floyd.

Further, it was noted that approximately 30-50 years ago, the Corps of Engineers were involved investigating flood damages in the area of Patricia, Beverly and Cardinal Drive

area in Washingtonville. Review of files will need to be conducted for additional information on the Corps’ involvement in this area. However, it was reported by Town representatives that FEMA, under the hazard mitigation program, bought out and removed seven (7) homes. It was indicated that Flo Schwartz of NRCS has additional information, such as financial and hydrology data.

Town of Blooming Grove

Village of Blooming Grove

Additionally, the Village representatives indicated that a study was completed for the straightening of Satterly Creek in the vicinity of Barnes and Horton Road. Although SEMO approved of the plan, it was indicated that permitting was not forthcoming. During flood events such as Hurricane Floyd and the April 2007 nor’easter, residences on the Satterly Creek were required to be evacuated by boat as the sandbags could not keep the rising flood waters out of the residential structures.

Town of Hamptonburgh

In the Town of Hamptonburgh, where the Moodna Creek has it’s confluence with the Otterkill Creek, it was reported that CR 4 and McBride Lane were closed due to flood waters. It was noted that there is a dam at the Old Borden Dairy and Creamery that has no flow control in the Town of Hamptonburgh. Due to this lack of flow control, it has been observed that flood waters have closed Station Road at Patricia Lane, Twin Arch Road at Old Grist Mill (historic road).

Additionally, in the Town of Hamptonburgh, there is an EPA Superfund site. Additional Data for this site may be found in the main text of this Report.

Town of Chester

Chester. However, several private residences have reported some flooding during storm events in the Black Meadow Creek area and road closures on Black Meadow Road.

Village of Maybrook

Although the above referenced Superfund site is located in the Town of Blooming Grove, the production wells located in the Village of Maybrook are in the vicinity of the groundwater contaminant plume. The Otterkill Creek flows through the Superfund site into Maybrook. The Otterkill Creek in Maybrook starts as a wetland outside of the Village and through the Village waste water treatment plant (the lowest point in the Village). The waste water treatment plant discharges to the Otterkill’s wetlands at this point. The wetlands in this area are highly silted due to the waste water treatment plant’s discharge elevation and the Otterkill Creek’s elevation at this point. The Village is currently attempting to acquire a Section 404 and Section 406 funds from FEMA for mitigation.

The Otterkill continues through the Town of Goshen. No flood damages have been reported with the Otterkill in the Town of Goshen since 90% of parcels are agricultural, horse farms and single family homes on large parcels of land.

Additional Reported Data

. During periods of high water, the Wallkill reverses flow and drains into the Otterkill at CR 207, causing a flooding event.

. There has been significant development along the Moodna, thereby creating more structures and property damaged during storm events.

The meeting convened with the recommendation that a separate meeting/site visit should be conducted for the Ramapo River Basin.

ORANGE COUNTY NEW YORK Ramapo River Basin Tuxedo, Orange County, New York

TRIP REPORT (MEMORANDUM FOR RECORD)

US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS NEW YORK DISTRICT

SUBJECT: Trip Report Village of Tuxedo Orange County, New York Hackensack-Passaic Watershed Reconnaissance

DATE: February 26, 2008

TIME: 1030

LOCATION: Tuxedo Train Station Tuxedo, Orange County, NY

PURPOSE: To conduct an information gathering meeting in Tuxedo, Orange County, NY with respect to the Comprehensive Documentation Report as authorized by the Supplemental Appropriation Disaster Declaration for the April 2007 storm event.

ATTENDEES: Thomas Darling – Town Councilman Joe Tripoli – Highway Superintendent Gary Phelps – Councilman Ed Pfizenmaier – Deputy Highway Superintendent Jason Shea, Chief, Economics Section-Plan Formulation, USACE Karen Ashton-Plan Formulation, USACE

CONGRESSSIONAL DISTRICT: Hall

SUMMARY OF FEBRUARY 26, 2008 MEETING

The meeting commenced at the Town of Tuxedo train station. The rail tracks that run through the Town of Tuxedo act as a levee for the Ramapo River. Flooding has occurred frequently on the Ramapo River, with flood events in 1968, 1971, 1973, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1983, 1984, 1987, 1996, 1999 and 2007. The 1977 and 1984 floods were the most severe causing extensive damages to the project area. Tropical Storm Floyd in September 1999 also caused significant damage.

Ramapo River, Tuxedo, Orange County, New York

The meeting was conducted on-site in Tuxedo Park, Orange County, New York on the Ramapo River Basin. The first site visit was conducted on the “Lucky Bridge.” Sediment build-up and debris in the river seem to have culminated at the Lucky Bridge, acting as a flow constriction for the river.

It was reported that 8-9 houses have been affected by flood damages along River Road. Further, approximately 90% of the total 75-80 houses have been affected during the floods in the East Village. It was also reported that SOS fuels in this area has indicated repeated flood damages, totaling $150,000 for the April 2007 storm event and approximately $250,000 of damages after Hurricane Floyd. Although the railroad in the area acts as a levee, the highway (New York State Thruway) still will be under flood conditions after a storm event. Further, the highway acts a pass through during storm events, providing runoff and sediment to the river.

Additionally, representatives from the Town of Tuxedo noted a 150 foot walking bridge that spans the Ramapo River. This walking bridge was replaced by FEMA to alleviate debris. However, FEMA only pulled one (1) span out, including only one (1) set of piles. The bridge (pictured below prior to replacement).

Currently, the Town is seeking to obtain permits to have another piling removed since the bridge continues to restrict the flow of water from debris and sediment build-up at the bridge. The following picture indicates the walking bridge with the existing piles.

Comments on the River

Additional Photographs of Damage Areas

SECTION 205 PROGRAM INITIAL APPRAISAL REPORT

MOODNA CREEK, NEW WINDSOR FLOOD CONTROL

Project: Moodna Creek, New Windsor

Authority: Continuing Authorities Program (CAP) Section 205 Flood Control Act 1948, as amended

Congressional District: NY – 19 (Congresswoman Sue Kelly)

Location: Town of New Windsor, Orange County, New York

Background: Flooding of Moodna Creek causes backwater flows into the New Windsor Sewage Treatment Plant, which overtops the sedimentation tanks at the effluent end. This overtopping threatens the structural stability of the sedimentation lagoon and it allows the discharge of partially treated sewage into Moodna Creek, which is a serious environmental issue. Flooding also occurs within occupied portions of the facility. A flood control project could potentially prevent the flooding of the plant and reduce subsequent environmental damage.

Site Visit: The purpose of the site visit was to determine if the flooding in the Sewage Treatment Plant warrants Federal involvement in the project. As a result of the site visit, we have identified potential Federal interest and authority under the Section 205 program. The trip report for this site visit is attached.

Views of the Sponsor: At this time there is no non-Federal sponsor.

Views of federal, state, regional and interested organizations: N/A

Findings: Based on the review of Corps guidance and regulations, discussions with the local interest, and site investigations, Federal interest to proceed to the Feasibility phase exists. There appears to be authority under Section 205 (33 U.S.C. 701s) of the Continuing Authorities Program for this project. However, lack of a non-Federal sponsor will keep the project from moving forward. In the future, depending on changed conditions, local preferences, planning constraints, funding availability and Corps governing policies and regulations, a decision on assessing further Federal involvement could be revisited, as warranted.

Trip Report:

APPENDIX E ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHS

APPENDIX F NEWSPAPER ARTICLES

Firefighters help Evelyn Narjas out of a boat after she was rescued from a flooded trailer park in Washingtonville on April 16, 2007

The Moodna Creek flooded the trailer park and other parts of Washingtonville.Times Herald-Record/TOM BUSHEY

Moodna Creek floods Washingtonville By Ramsey Al-Rikabi Times Herald-Record April 17, 2007

Washingtonville — The Little League fields behind Main Street became lakes. The streets turned to canals and reeked of fuel oil. The elementary school, empty of students yesterday, became a shelter for the evacuated. And if just a few more inches of rain fell, this village would have been an island. It started before midnight Sunday, as the usually mild Moodna Creek began flooding the streets of two mobile home parks off Route 94. "It was streaming in like someone was shooting it through a firehose," said Mayor Thomas DeVinko.

The estimated 50 homes in the parks — Brookside Acres and Washingtonville Manor — were evacuated by 2:30p.m. yesterday after Orange & Rockland Utilities Inc. decided to cut power because of safety concerns. The swollen Moodna nearly held the village hostage as the main routes out of the village — Route 94 both east and west and Route 208 south — were closed by high water. Only roads north were passable yesterday afternoon. To the west of the village, homes along Patricia and Beverly lanes were evacuated, also after the power was cut. And homes on Cardinal Avenue were flooded out. The water began seeping into basements and creeping under doors about 11 p.m. Sunday, residents said. A state of emergency was declared by DeVinko about 1 a.m. and emergency personnel began knocking on doors asking people in flood-prone areas to evacuate. Most chose to stay, though calls to 911 for evacuation continued into the early evening as people changed their minds.

Steve Smith, chief of the Washingtonville Fire Department, estimated that his company, with the help of Montgomery and Salisbury Mills departments, evacuated 65 people and their pets by boat. By late yesterday afternoon, nearly 100 people had sought refuge at the Taft Elementary School, where the Red Cross and the village had set up a shelter. There, sipping coffee and eating donated doughnuts, residents held their hands up waist-high to describe the water they escaped and wondered how their homes fared. Doug Cheyne, who lives on Cardinal Avenue, sounded almost sanguine when he said, "Our home is in the middle of Moodna Creek." His wife, Cindy, had pictures on a digital camera. The view from their bedroom window was of trees, trunk-deep in brown water.