United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Region 1
J.F. Kennedy Federal Building
Boston, MA 02203
May 1981
Dredge and Fill (404) Program
4>EPA New England
Wetlands
Plant Identification
and Protective Laws
-------
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UNITED ST A 1.~SENVIRONM.ENT AlPROTECVr<:?tcif~~~NCY
REGION I 'Protection Agency
E 'fonmenta
US m,l Region It
J.F. KENNEDY FEDERAL BUILDING, BOSTON. MA~W8~uSETTS02203
J UN 25 19m
June 1981
To: Government Agencies and Concerned Persons 1200 Si"th Avenue
Seattle. WA98101
As a .part of Region I's expanding program for the protection of the beneficial
functions of inland wetlands, flood plains, and ooastal ecosystems, we are
pleased to present the accanpanying copy of "New Englarid Wetlands Plant
Identification and VEtlands Protection Laws". 'Ibis text is being distributed
to Conservation Conmissions in all New England states as well as .to agencies
of Federal and State governments charged with the responsibilities of wetland
protection. 'Ibe Superintendent of Documents will make this book available to
the general public through the Federal Book Store.
Although Federal regulations prohibit the printing of the names of authors
and preparers, I should like to acknowledge the work of EPA people responsible
for the writing, canposition, and much of the photography in the manual.
Fran the Permits Branch:
Russ Wilder
Ed Reiner
Pete Holmes
Cindy Lewarrlowski
Kaye Cleghorn
Fran Support Services Graphics Unit:
From the Enviromnental Impact 9ffice:
Gene Parker
Ken~
Beth Henderson
Fran our Legal Review Section:
Ann Williams-Dawe
From EPA Washington:
C"lar lie Terrell
COncurrence as to the accuracy of the text was received fran federal, state,
and academic authorities.
As you see, "New England Wetlands Plant Identification and Wetlands Protection
Laws" is the result of the cooperative efforts of a significant number of
people and talents, and it is our sincere hope that it will be of value in
our shared goal of the protection of the Region's wetlands.
Sincerely,
~~~
Leslie Carothers
Acting Regional Administrator
Enclosure
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Frontispiece
CARDINAL FLOWER
WARE RIVER, MASSACHUSETTS
1.01
For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington,
Stock No. 055-000-00212-6
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PREFACE
This manual has been prepared by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
Region I, as part of the agency's effort to bring to the ~attention of the general
public the regulatory framework that is in plage in New England to protect wet-
lands. As part of its responsibilities under Section 404 of the Federal Water Pollu-
tion Control Act, (Cleanwater Act), as well as cO'mplying with President Carter's
1977 Executive Order concerning the protection of wetlands, EPA has made educa-
tion of the general public concerning the values of wetlands and their protection
a priority in the 404 program.
After researching the available information on wetlands identification and pro-
tective legislation in the six New England states, it was recognized by EPA that
there was a need for a comprehensive field identification guide combined with an
updated summary of protective laws for all the New England States. It is felt con-
servation commissions, municipal governments, consultants, engineering firms
and planners could greatly benefit from such an assembly of information.
Accordingly, this manual provides a comprehensive summary of all wetlands laws
in New England, both State and Federal. It allows the lay person to identify wet-
lands so that it can be determined when a wetland is involved in a particular pro-
ject and to tell what statutes apply, where to get information on each regulatory
program, and under what conditions permits can and cannot be issued.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The following people assisted EPA in preparation of this manual.
Nancy Anderson, New England Environmental Network
Teco Brown, ME
Jim Colman, MA
Denis Cunningham, CT
Rod Gaskill, MA
Meriel Hardin, MA
Peter Janaros, RI
Nancy Johnson, NH
Bill Kroll, MA
Bernie Manor, Corps, NED
Dr. Norton Nickerson, Tufts University
Bill Slezak, Corps, NY District
Bob Wanner, VT
PHOTOGRAPH CREDITS
Frontispiece - Emerson Chandler, MA
Bill Everberg, MA
Jack Woolner, MA .
Funded by Environmental and Economic Impact Office
1.02
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
F rontisp iece . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preface and Acknowledgements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .-. . . . . . . .
Freshwater (I nland) Wetlands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Freshwater Wetland Plants (text and photographs) ................
Coastal Wetlands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coastal Wetland Plants (text and photographs) ...................
Summaries of New England Wetland Laws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecticut Wetland Laws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maine Wetland Laws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Massachusetts Wetland Laws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
New Hampshire Wetland Laws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rhode Island Wetland Laws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vermont Wetland Laws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Federal Wetland Laws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
B ibl iography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Index. ., .. . . ., . . . .. . . .. . .. ... ., . . . " . . ., . . . . ., . . . . . . . . ..
Endleaf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
LIST OF IllUSTRATIONS
(Does not include photographs. See Index)
Page
1.01
1.02
1.04
2.00
Section 3
4.00
Section 5
6.00
Section 7
Section 8
Section 9
Section 10
Section 11
Section 12
Section 13
14.00
Section 15
16.00
Figure 1 Freshwater Marsh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 2.05
Figure 2 Bog. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 2.07
Figure 3 Salt Marsh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . " 4.03
Map Connecticut. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 7.00
Map Maine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ., 8.00
Map Massachusetts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . " 9.00
Map New Hampshire. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 10.00
Map Rhode Island......................................... 11.00
Map Vermont. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 12.00
Map New England. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ., 13.00
1.03
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INTRODUCTION
(How To Use This Manual)
This manual is designed to aid persons interested in determining whether or not
an ongoing or proposed construction project is located in wetlands. (Occasionally,
wetlands in a dry season do not show visible signs of water). If the project is lo-
cated in wetlands, the manual then can be used to determine what regulatory
authorities apply to it.
It is recommended that the person using this manual first try to determine what
type of wetland is involved. This can be done by comparing the area to figures
1 through 3. If the area does not exactly coincide with one of these figures, it
simply means that it is in a transitional zone or is a combination of types. How-
ever, one should be able to tell whether or not the area is a saltmarsh, freshwater
wetland or bog.
I f the area in question exh ibits some of the characteristics shown in figures 1
through 3, then the flora in the area should be examined and compared to the
descriptions in this manual to determine if there is a predominance of wetland
species. This manual is not meant to be a definitive work on wetland plants but
a useful tool to help determine where wetland protection laws apply.
After it has been determined that a wetland is involved, one should refer to the
section for the particular state in which the wetland is located. There, the various
laws that protect inland (freshwater) wetlands, coastal (saltwater) wetlands, great
ponds, and rivers and streams are described. It should be noted that under federal
law, Section 404 of the Clean Water Act applies to all of the above named areas.
1.04
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FRESHWATER (INLAND)
WETLANDS
2.00
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2.01
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INLAND WETLANDS OF NEW ENGLAND
(EPA, REGION I)
A precise, single, indisputable definition of the term "wetlands" has not yet been
developed by any of the several regulatory agencies in Region I, simply because
of the diversity of characteristics and values which are to be found in the various
types of these wetlands. Generally acceptable, however, is the description of a
wetland as an area where naturally occurring water is at or near the surface for
a significant portion of the growing season, and that, under normal conditions,
supports a prevalance of vegetation typically adapted for growth in saturated soil
conditions.
This definition points to a vegetative cover as a means of identification of a wet-
land and its boundaries, thus providing a reliable tool for enforcement agencies
or advisory bodies. Proper use of this tool is, of course, dependent upon the abil-
ity to properly and accurately identify wetland plants. The purpose of the wetland
plant identification section of this manual is to provide, in layman's language,
the identifying characteristics of the more important, commonly found wetland
plant species.
Plant identification, in order to support valid conclusions, should include as many
species as possible of the entire vegetational community. One species will not prove
the existence of a wetland. The plant grouping - not the plant specimen - is the
true indication of the characteristic saturated conditions. For example, if a grove
of Red Maple is found to have Chokecherry, Staghorn Sumac, and Hayscented
Fern as an understory and ground cover, it must be concluded that the area is well
above the level of the groundwater table. If this same Red Maple canopy is under-
grown with Spicebush, Winterberry, and Sensitive Fern, then the site is clearly
indicated as a wetland.
Listings of indicator plants, as presented in several of the statutes and regulations,
can be confusing, because they represent a whole range of ecosystems and habi-
tats. As the beginning of an understanding, we have segregated these plants by
three categories, based on degree of tolerance of wet conditions. Not all the plants
listed below are described in this manual. However, a sufficient number are pro-
vided to assure reliable identification.
2.02
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1. Hydrophilic - These are plants of the littoral (shoreline) habitat which
include border grasses, emergents, floating-leaf plants, and submersed plants, all
of which require permanent standing or slow-flowing water. All are herbaceous
plants (die back to the ground annually).
Callitriche spp.
Elodea sp. (Hydrocharitaceae)
Eriocaulon sp.
Gramineae
Juncus sp.
Lemna minor
Ludwigia palustris
Myriophyllum sp.
Nymphaea
Pontederia sp.
Potamogeton sp.
Sparganium sp.
Utricularia sp.
Vallisneria sp.
Water Starworts*
Frog's B it*
Pipeworts*
Hydrophilic Grasses*
Rushes*
Duckweed
Water-Pu rslane*
Water Milfoil*
Pond Lilies
Pickerel Weed
Pondweeds*
Bur-Reeds*
Bladderworts*
Eel Grass*
2. Phreatophytic - These are plants whose root systems extend into the
water table or in the semi-saturated layer just above the water table. I n natural
conditions, the availability of this "free" water is a requirement for normal growth.
TREES
Chamaecyparis thyoides
Larix laricina
Nyssa sylvatica
Picea mariana
Quercus bicolor
Salix nigra
Thuja occidentalis
WOODY SHRUBS
Alnus rugosa, serrulata
Andromeda glaucophyllum
Azalea viscosum
Cephalanthus occidentalis
Chamaedaphne calyculata
Clethra alnifolia
/lex verticillata
Kalmia polifolia
Ledum groenlandicum
Lindera benzoin
Myrica gale
Rhus vernix
Sambucuscanadens~
Vaccinium macrocarpon, oxycoccus
*Not shown
2.03
Atlantic White Cedar
Tamarack, Eastern Larch
Tupelo, Black Gum
Black Spruce
Swamp White Oak
Black Willow
Northern White Cedar
Alder spp.
Bog Rosemary
Swamp Azalea
Buttonbush
Leatherleaf
Summersweet
Winterberry, Black Alder
B09 Laurel
Labrador Tea
Spicebush
Sweet Gale
Poison Sumac
American Elder*
Cranberry
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HERBACEOUS PLANTS
A raceae
Arethusa bulbosa
Calopogon pulche/lus
Caltha palustris
Cyperaceae
Decodon vertici/latus
Drosera sp.
Dryopteris thelypteris
Eriophorum sp.
Eupatorium perfoliatum
Eupatorium purpureum
Iris versicolor
Onoclea sensibilis
Osmunda regalis
Pogonia ophioglossoides
Sarrancenia purpurea
Sphagnum sp.
Symplocarpus foetidus
Typha latifolia, angustifolia
Veratrum viride
Arums
Swamp Pink Orchid*
Grass Pink Orchid*
Marsh Marigold*
Sedges*
Water-Willow
Sundew
Marsh Fern
Cotton Grass
Boneset
Joe-Pye Weed
Blue Flag
Sensitive Fern
Royal Fern*
Rose Pogonia Orchid*
Pitcher Plant
Sphagnum Moss
Skunk Cabbage*
Cattail*
White Hellebore*
3. Tolerant species - These are trees, shrubs, and herbs which will tolerate
saturated conditions for a limited period of time during the growing season, but
saturated soils are not a requirement for normal growth. These species are just as
much "at home" in dry upland conditions.
TREES
Acer rubrum
Tsuga canadensis
Ulmus americana
WOODY SHRUBS
Rhododendron canadensis
Comus amomum
Kalmia angustifolia
Lyonia ligustrina
Vaccinium corymbosum
Red Maple
Canada Hemlock*
American Elm*
Rhodora*
Silky Dogwood*
Sheep laurel
Maleberry*
H ighbush Blueberry
HERBACEOUS PLANTS
Lythrum salicaria
*Not shown
2.04
Purple loosestrife
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.~
FRESH WATER
TRANSITION
MARSH
ZON ES
[PRESENTATIVE SPECIES
A FEW S[LE~:::AR SHOWN ARE 10 SCALE)
NOT ALL
POison
Ivy
Tupelo
Sl;pper~
Elm
Skunk
Cabb<>qe
Sweet h
Alder Pepp€rbl..'s
Tussock
Seci~e
Vied;)r ~.SS
h P herel wced
Bullrush Sp,ke-ru5 IC
Loosestrife I . A"cw.Arwm
Brancn1ng
Bur -reed tt '\
Ca al
POison
Sumac
I\J
o
(Jl
Figure
-------
Fresh Water Marsh
I'.)
o
(j)
A fresh marsh has its beginning as a wide, relatively shallow depression in a drainage
system, usually with a slow flow-through current. Bottom materials are a mix of
organic/mineral silts and sediments. Bottom-rooted herbaceous plants, plus the
floating Duckweeds, die back each year, thus building up the substrate elevation
with the decaying plant parts. Trees and shrubs at the elevated marsh edge also add
their leaves and twigs to the buildup. As the water level fluctuates and this organic
base slowly reaches to and above the average water level, populations of shrubs and
trees begin to establish themselves, and the transition from open marsh through
shrub swamp to wooded swamp begins. .
-------
--
\,J.Jhlle
Ook
Tamarack
Soft
Maple
N~t-ve!ned
C nom Fern
Sheep
Laun~1
Bo']
Aster
5 L~ather.;€at
undew
Sw.,.et
Ga\e
S:..:eet
Cr-Qnberr~ Pepp€rDu:;h
Rese
Pogonll;:l
Pltcher'F\~lnt
H'9h
Bush
Billeberr~
BlaCK
Spruce
Bog
Lourel
Utbrod:...r
Te;:;
~
Figure 2
-------
809
!'>
o
co
The bog is born in a "kettle-hole," formed by a melting ice block left by the re-
treating glacier. Water levels do fluctuate and are maintained by surface water or
groundwater, although some bogs are fed by very slow-moving tributaries. Forma-
tion of the bog begins as a floating ring of sphagnum moss extending from the shore-
line. Each year, the Sphagnum extends further into the open water, depressing
the previous year's growth with the weight of the new growth. As this floating
mat becomes more dense, a greater variety of plants are supported, adding their
annual die-off material to the mat. As more and more of this mat is depressed,
the surface is actually elevated to the aerated zone, and "islands" begin to develop,
where tree seedlings can be supported. It is not uncommon to find dry-land species
such as White Pine and Gray Birch growing on these "islands." Normal climax
growth in the bogs are phreatophytes such as Atlantic White Cedar in the coastal
and southern New England bogs, and Tamarack/Black Spruce in the higher alti-
tudes and colder areas.
-------
2.09
-------
FRESHWATER WETLAND PLANTS
3.00
-------
EASTERN LARCH, TAMARACK
Larix laricina
Deciduous conifer, 12 to 24 meters (40 to 80 feet) at maturity. Trunk usually
straight, with narrow pyramidal head in forest stands - more rounded in the open.
Bark thin, bright reddish-brown to gray, and scaly.
Needles:
Soft, pale green in color, 2 to 3.2 cm (% to 1% inches) long. Grow
in clusters from knobs on the branches. Turn golden yellow in
September - October, then drop.
Cones:
1.2 to 2 cm (% to % inches) long, rounded oval.
Location: The higher elevation bogs of northwest and north central Con-
necticut and Massachusetts, and throughout the three northern
states. .
To identify:
1. Needles come from both the twigs (current years growth) and from spurs
on the second year and older branches. All other native conifers only bear
needles directly from the twigs.
2. Cones always grow upright from the branch. Spruce and hemlock cones
are pendant.
Values:
Seeds and needles are eaten by ruffed grouse, snowshoe hare, red
squirrel, porcupine and deer.
3.01
-------
..
,
3.02
-------
BLACK SPRUCE, BOG SPRUCE
Picea mariana
Evergreen conifer, rarely over 12 meters (40 feet) in Massachusetts. Narrow,
pointed head while young, but can become irregular, even distorted with age.
Sometimes dwarfed.
Needles:
Short, .6 to 2 cm (% to % inches) long, blunt tipped, pale blue-
green in color.
Cones:
Rounded, dull grayish-brown, numerous, to 2.5 cm (1 inch) long,
persistent.
Location: Usually found with Tamarack in the colder bogs throughout the
Region. Not common in coastal plains.
To identify:
1. Short need les - the shortest of all the Spruces.
2. Persistent cones - Hemlock and all other Spruces lose their cones before
the beginning of the next growing season, but Black Spruce cones will
hang on for many years, even after the tree has died.
Values:
Provides nesting and winter cover; needles are food for grouse,
deer and small mammals; seeds are also food for small mammals
and deer as well as songbirds.
3.03
-------
3.04
-------
ATLANTIC WHITE CEDAR
Chamaecyparis thyoides
Evergreen conifer, to 24 meters (80 feet), but matures much smaller. Tall,
straight, and columnar, but rather loose in form. Bark light, reddish-brown, peel-
ing off in long strips.
Needles:
Dark blue-green overlapping scales about .3 cm (1/8 inch) long,
often with a wh itish gland on the back.
Cones:
Crumpled, consisting of about 3 pairs of scales in a 2 cm (% inch)
globe. Bluish-purple at maturity.
Location: From the most southerly portion of Maine, southward within a
narrow coastal belt. Usually not more than 80 to 115 km (50 to
70 miles) inland.
To identify:
1. This tree, from a distance, resembles Red Cedar, but the latter has loose,
sharp needles, while the White Cedar's branch lets are flat and smooth to
the touch.
Values:
Valuable timber crop. Needles are browse for small mammals and
deer. Seeds are food for some songbirds, especially in winter.
3.05
-------
,.~,~
. ,.~,,~ ""~\ ."~
)
, I
,
I
I
7
3.06
-------
NORTHERN WHITE CEDAR
Thuja occidentalis
Evergreen conifer, to 15 meters (50 feet), conical in shape. Bark reddish-brown,
fibrous, peels easily. Resembles Atlantic White Cedar, but branches are more open
and spreading. Paler green foliage.
Leaves:
Nearly all scale-like, .15 to .3 em (1/16 to 1/8 inch) long. Occur
in four rows around twigs, and are flattened from the sides. Twigs
and leaves occur in flattened sprays which typically are aligned
vertically. Smooth to the touch.
Fruit:
Small cones, about 1.3 em (112 inch) long, tan in color, with only
a few scales.
Location: Thoughout the 3 northern states, and in the mountainous areas of
Massachusetts and Connecticut.
To identify:
1. Distinguish from Atlantic White Cedar and Red Cedar by the vertical align-
ment of the branch sprays, the pale green color, and the more open, spread-
ing branch structure.
Value:
Same as Atlantic White Cedar.
3.07
-------
3.08
-------
SWAMP WHITE OAK
Quercus bicolor
Deciduous tree, 18 to 21 meters (60 to 70 feet), occasionally to 30 meters
(100 feet). A mas.sive round head, with many long, reaching branches perpendicu-
lar to the trunk. Appears shaggy, with many short branches growing from the
trunks and underside of the main limbs. Bark light gray, ridged or flaky.
Leaves:
8 to 23 cm (3 to 9 inches), wedge-shaped at the base, with wavy
outer edges. Usually white, hairy on the underside.
Fruit:
Acorn 2 to 3 centimeters (.8 to .12 inches) long, with a bowl-shaped
cap, on a long stalk (longer than the leaf stalks).
Location: From southwest Maine and southern New Hampshire and Vermont,
through the southern New England states.
To identify:
1. Scaling bark on the large laterals.
2. Short branches growing from the trunk.
3. Crooked, down-turned small branches coming off the main limbs.
Value:
Acorns are sweet and are eaten by squirrels, deer, wild ducks, wild
turkey and other birds.
3.09
-------
3.10
-------
TUPELO, BLACK GUM
Nyssa sy/vatica
Deciduous tree, to 30 meters (100 feet), more often 12 to 18 meters (40 to 60
feet). Trunk straight, branches horizontal. Lower branches may slant downward.
Develops a broad, rounded top in the open. Crowded trees are pyramidal.
Leaves:
Smooth, oval shape with no teeth or lobes, 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4
inches) long. R ather leathery, dark green, glossy, usually cI ustered
at the tips of the zig-zag branches.
Flowers:
Small, inconspicuous, greenish-white.
Fruit:
1.3 cm (Y2 inch) long, black, oval berry.
Location: From southern Maine and southeast New Hampshire, through
three southern states except for the Berkshires of Massachusetts.
To identify:
1. B ranches have a contorted, thorny appearance.
2. Autumn color is an intense, deep red, outstanding among all surrounding
trees.
Value:
Fruits and food for small mammals.
3.11
-------
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3.12
-------
BLACK WILLOW
Sa/ix nigra
Deciduous tree, 9 to 12 meters (30 to 40 feet). Trunk rather massive, often
growing in clumps from the same root. Branching occurs low on the trunk, and
develops into a wide, ragged, delicate crown. Bark appears twisted and flaky, often
becoming shaggy on old trees.
Leaves:
Bright, glossy green, up to 13 cm (5 inches) in length, narrow, lance-
shaped, with small sharp-appearing teeth on the edges. Stipules at
the base of the leaf encircle the twig.
Flowers:
The familiar fuzzy, white and yellow catkins which appear just
before the leaves emerge in the spring.
Fruit:
.6 cm (% inch) capsule, green, having shape like a fig.
Location: Along stream banks and in low, rich land throughout the Region,
south of the 45th parallel (central Maine).
To identify:
1. Winter identification is by the bright golden yellow color of the branches,
and twigs.
Value:
Buds and twigs are food for grouse and pine grosbeak. Bark, buds
and wood are important to beaver, hare and other mammals. Pro-
vides excellent browse for deer and moose.
3.13
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3.14
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RED MAPLE~ SWAMP MAPLE
Acer rub rum
Decidous medium size tree, 23 to 24 meters (75 to 80 feet). In the open, branch-
ing is low and wide-spreading. I n dense stands, the branches are more ascending, and
lower branches die off as the canopy becomes more elevated. Bark on old trunks
is thick, dark gray, and separated by vertical ridges into plate-like scales.
Leaves:
3 to 5 lobed, with V-shaped sinuses between the lobes. Margins
are coarsely toothed. Light green on the the top surface, whitish
on the underside. '
Flowers:
Dark red to scarlet; appear in clusters well before the leaves in the
Spring (one variety has yellow flowers).
Fruits:
The winged fruits (maple keys), called samaras, are also reddish,
ripening in late spring and early summer.
Location: Throughout the Region in all conditions from swamps to uplands.
To identify:
1. The typical Fall colors (red, orange and yellow), occurring early, are familiar
to all.
2. Leaves are opposite.
3. Twigs (the current season's growth), as well as the leaf stalks are bright red.
Value:
Bark and twigs are preferred deer browse and food for hares. Birds
and small mammals use seeds, buds and flowers for food.
3.15
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3.16
-------
SPECKLED ALDER
Alnus rugosa
Tall, coarse, deciduous shrub, 3 to 4.5 meters (10 to 15 feet). Branching from
the base, a colony of these Alder can form an almost impenetrable thicket. The
bark varies from warm brown to blackish-gray marked distinctively with whitish
linear lenticels.
Leaves:
Flowers:
Fruit:
.
5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 inches) ovate to broadly elliptic, coarsely toothed,
with saw-tooth edges on the large teeth. They appear somewhat
wrinkled on the top surface due to the prominent cross-veins, and
often brownish on the underside.
Catkins, blossoming before the unfolding of the leaves.
Cone-like, about 1.3 cm (% inch) in length.
Location: ThroughoLit the Region, common in all types of wetland areas.
To identify:
1. Leaves with very prominent veins.
2. Conspicuous male flower buds at branch terminals.
3. Cone-like fruits which may persist through two growing seasons.
Values:
Imporant ground cover for grouse and woodcock; beavers use alders
in dam construction; food for moose, muskrats, beavers, cotton-
tails, snowshoe hares and deer. Fixes nitrogen which means leaves,
twigs, etc., are high in protein. .
3.17
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- --'""'I
3.18
-------
WINTERBERRY, BLACK ALDER
/lex verticil/ata
Deciduous shrub, to 2 to 2.5 meters (6 to 8 feet). Branches spreading. Bark
grayish-black, lightly speckled. One of our native Hollies.
Leaves:
Alternate, 4 to 8 cm (1 % to 3 inches) long, with toothed edges.
Dull green on the upper side, downy underside. I n sun, or in poor
conditions, the leaves have a yellowish cast.
Flowers:
Inconspicuous, small, pale greenish-white flowers occur in June and
July at the leafaxils on the current season's growth. Male and
female flowers are on separate plants.
Fruit (only on female plants): Ripens in October. Bright red, .6 cm (% inch)
in diameter, round, on very short stems .in leafaxils. Will remain
on the bare stems until January, or until eaten by birds.
Location: A common shrub of swamps, pond margins, and damp thickets
in all parts of the Region.
To identify:
1. Round, short-stemmed showy berries are in tight clusters. .
2. Complete absence of Fall color. Leaves turn black after the first hard frost
and fall rapidly.
Value:
Food for songbirds and small mammals; Browse for deer, moose,
cottontail and snowshoe hare; when associated with speckled Alder
it enhances the habitat value.
3.19
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3.20
-------
SPICEBUSH, WI LD ALLSPICE
Lindera benzoin
Deciduous shrub, 2 to 4.5 meters (6 to 15 feet). Of spreading habit, much like
Winterberry, but somewhat more open and faster growing. Branches are green,
even in winter. Bark smooth.
Leaves:
Alternate, 7.6 to 13 cm (3 to 5 inches) long, bright green with
pale green underside; oblong, pointed, with smooth edges. Autumn
color a clear yellow.
F Lowers: Appear as early as March. Small, delicate, and honey-yellow in color,
they cover much of the shrub. The earliest to flower of all wetland
shrubs.
Fruits:
Oblong, 1.3 cm (% inch) long, bright red in October, in clusters on
short stems. Very spicy to the taste. Used as substitute for allspice
in colonial days.
Location: Shade swamps and stream banks throughout the Region, south of
southwest Maine.
To identify:
1. Distinguished from Winterberry by the large (2X) oval fruits, smooth-edged
leaves, and yellow Autumn color.
2. All parts of this plant - twigs, leaves, fruits - are highly aromatic.
Value:
Fruits are food for many songbirds and grouse, pheasant and quail.
3.21
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3.22
-------
HIGHBUSH BLUEBERRY
Vaccinium corymbosum
Deciduous shrub, 2 to 3 meters (6 to 10 feet). Forms compact clumps while
young, becoming more spreading with age. Branchlets yellowish-green or red, warty.
Quite variable, as many natural hybrids occur.
Leaves:
4 to 7.5 cm (1 112 to 3 inches) long, green on both sides with smooth
margins. Fall color variable and distinctive. Among the more orna-
mental leaves in the late season, being deep red.
Flowers:
Cylindrical, urn-shaped .6 to 1.3 cm (% to 112 inch) long, White.
Occur when the leaves are half grown.
Berries:
Vary from blue to blue-black, with a whitish bloom. Ripen from
June to early September.
Location: Region-wide, in acid soils of swamps or bogs to dry hillsides. Gener-
ally grows with roots partly in fresh water.
To identify:
1. Very similar to Lyonia (Maleberry), and found in the same locations. The
latter has persistent brown seed capsules which identify it.
2. I n the late season, the new growth has .3 cm (1/8 inch) round to pointed,
bright red buds at the leafaxils.
Value: .
Very important food for many birds and mammals. Twigs and leaves
are also important as browse and berries are eaten by man.
3.23
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3.24
-------
SUMMERSWEET, SWEET PEPPERBUSH
C/ethra a/nifo/ia
Deciduous shrub, 1 to 3 meters (3 to 10 feet) at maturity. Varies from a com-
pact, rounded shrub to a tall branched cluster of thin stems, preferring semishaded
locations for its best growth.
Leaves:
Foliage very similar to Alder (its old name was White Alder). Same
shape and size, with the heavy veins on the underside. Green rather
than brownish on the underside.
Flowers:
From late July to September, the fragrant, white, 7.6 to 10 em
(3 to 4 inch) flower spikes are borne in profusion at the ends of each,
of the branches.
Seeds:
Seed heads are spikes of light brown, dry capsules, remaining on the
shrub for two years or longer. Seeds tiny and dust-like.
Location: From southern Maine and New Hampshire, through the coastal plains
of the southern states.
To identify:
1. The persistent terminal seed capsules separate this shrub from other shrubs
of similar form.
3.25
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3.26
-------
SHEEP LAUREL, LAMBKILL
Kalmia angustifolia
Broadleaf evergreen, to 1 meter (3 feet). Upright, straight branches.
Leaves:
Flowers:
Seeds:
2.5 to 6.5. cm (1 to 2 % inches), oblong obtuse. Light green above,
pale beneath. Opposite, on short stems, often drooping.
Deep rose-pink to crimson, less than 1.3 cm (% inch) across, cup-
shaped, in axillary clusters so that new growth is always found above
the clusters.
Fruits are small, brown, globular, persistent. Seeds are tiny and
dust-like.
Location: Region-wide, in either wet areas or dry conditions.
BOG LAUREL, PALE LAUREL
Kalmia polifolia
Similar to Sheep Laurel, but not over .6 meter (2 feet). A low, straggling shrub.
Leaves:
Flowers:
1.3 to 3.8 cm (% to 1 % inches), more oval than Sheep laurel.
lustrous green above, conspicuously whitened beneath. Nearly
sessile (without stems).
To 2 cm (% inch) across, occurring at the branch terminals in May
and June. Deep pink to crimson, cup-shaped.
location: R,egionwide, but not common in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, or
the lower elevations in Connecticut. A true bog plant, found only
in saturated conditions.
To identify:
1. leathery, evergreen leaves.
2. The unique and distinctive cupshape flower.
3. Distinguish between these two by the location of the flowers.
Value:
Ruffed grouse and deer feed on the foliage buds and twigs.
3.27
-------
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3.28
-------
LEATHERLEAF
Chamaedaphne calyculata
Almost evergreen, spreads in a marsh or bog, becoming a dense, .6 meter (2
foot) high shrub cover. Individuals may reach 1 meter (3 feet) in height.
Leaves:
About 2.5 cm (1 in'ch) long; oblong, pointed, diminishing in size
toward the tips of the arching branches. Remain on the branches
long after other shrubs have dropped their leaves. Dull green, leath-
ery, with rusty underside.
Flowers:
Occur April to June in the axils of the small outer leaves. White,
urn-shaped, about 2 cm (% inch) long, nodding, on short stems.
Seeds:
Seed pods are small, pale brown, 5 lobed capsules, not persistent.
Location: Common in bogs and marshes throughout the Region. Prefers open,
sunny exposure.
To identify:
1. Nearly evergreen leaves, diminishing in size at the branch tips;
2. Arching branches;
3. Rusty appearance of underside of leaf.
Value:
Fruits and buds used as food by grouse; twigs browsed by snow-
shoe hare.
3.29
-------
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3.30
-------
SWEET GALE, BOG MYRTLE
Myrica gale
A strong, upright-growing shrub, .6 to 1.2 meters (2 to 4 feet) in height, with
dark brown bark.
Leaves:
2.54 to 7.5 cm (1 to 2 Y2 inches) long, leathery, dark glossy green
on the upper side, grayish and hairy on the underside. Narrowly
wedge-shaped, with distinct teeth on the tips.
Flowers:
Occur in April, before the leaves, with the male and female flowers
usually on separate plants. Male flowers are brownish, 1.3 cm (Y2
inch) catkins. Female flowers are cone-like.
Fruit:
Ripens in September at the ends of the previous year's branches.
The nuts are compressed, 3-pointed, yellowish, and resinous, about
.8 cm (1/3 inch) in length.
Location: Region-wide, along pond shorelines or in bogs, marshes, and swamps.
Tolerant of sun or shade.
To identify:
1. Twigs, leaves, and fruit are highly aromatic, with a strong, spicy odor when
bru ised.
2. Teeth on the tips of the leaves are prominent.
3. Twigs smooth, purplish or brownish., with yellow markings.
Value:
Noted for its ability to fix nitrogen in low nitrate soils.
3.31
-------
3.32
-------
SWAMP AZALEA, CLAMMY AZALEA
Rhododendron (Azalea) viscosum
An upright, rigid shrub, growing 1.2 to 2.4 meters (4 to 8 feet) tall. The almost
whorled arrangement of the branches gives this shrub the appearance of growing
in tiers. Twigs are light brown, bristly.
Leaves:
5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 inches) long; elliptic to reverse egg-shaped. Usu-
ally green on both sides, with hairs on the margins and on the under-
side of the mid-rib. .
Flowers:
Appear after the leaves, usually in late June or early July. Some-
times pale pink, but more often white, up to 3.8 cm (1 % inches)
long. Heavy sweet fragrance, and sticky to the touch.
Seeds:
Seed capsule is cylindrical, brown, splitting into 5 valves when seed
is released. .
Location: Southerly from southwest Maine, in swamps, wet thickets, and
bogs, in sun or shade.
To identify:
1. I n late season, prominent flower bud centered in a rosette of leaves at
the tip of new growth.
2. Appearance of growing in tiers.
3.33
-------
3.34
-------
BUTTON BUSH
Cephalanthus occidentalis
An open, straggling shrub, usually not over 2.5 meters (8 feet). Branches pale in
color, 4- sided, brittle.
Leaves:
Large 7.5 to 15 cm (3 to 6 inches) in length, on rather long stems,
opposite or whorled in groups of 3 or 4. Lustrous, bright green on
the upper surface, and lighter, somewhat hairy underneath.
Flowers:
Fragrant, wh ite, in densely aggregated spherical heads, 2.5 cm
(1 inch) in diameter, occur in July and August.
Seeds:
Seed heads retain the globular form, and remain on the plant until
hard frost.
Location: Region-wide, in swamps, pond border, and margins of streams,
often with stems partly submerged.
To identify:
1. Brittle, 4-angled small branches.
2. From mid-summer to frost, spherical flower and seed heads.
Value:
Important waterfowl food; Beaver, muskrat and deer eat wood
and foliage.
3.35
-------
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3.36
-------
BOG-ROSEMARY
Andromeda glaucophy/la
A low shrub of cold acid bogs.
Leaves:
Not toothed; whitened, upper surface bluish, slightly hairy beneath;
leaf edges rolled; 1 - 1 %" long.
Flowers:
Small, pink or white, bell-like, in end clusters, May-July or later.
Seed Capsule: Flattened, Turban-shaped, shiny, 3/16" diameter.
Location: Northern 3 states and high 80gs of Western Massachusetts.
To identify:
1. Unique toothless leaves; dark-bluish green.
2. Rolled leaves much whitened underneath.
Value:
Not known.
3.37
-------
3.38
-------
. LABRADOR TEA
Ledum groenlandicum
A low northern shrub of the evergreen heath family found in cold acid bogs.
o
Leaves:
Leathery evergreen leaves with rolled edges; narrow, toothless,
fragrant when crushed; underside of leaves brown and wooly; twigs
are also wooly.
Flowers:
Small, white 5-petaled in terminal clusters; bloom in May-June or
later.
Seeds:
Seed capsule is held on a short stalk; oblong, slender and nodding.
Location: Northern three states and high bogs of Western Massachusetts.
To identify:
1. Toothless leaves - brown wooly underneath.
2. Fragrance of crushed foliage.
Value:
Dried leaves have been used for tea.
3.39
-------
3.40
-------
SHRUB WILLOW
Salix spp.
Usually erect shrubs, often developing with only one trunk in the form of a
small tree. Hybridize freely, thus are quite variable and difficult to identify as to
species.
Leaves:
Simple, and alternate on the stems. The common form is elongated
and pointed, most often with a shiny upper surface, with teeth on
the margins.
Flowers:
Silky catkins, appearing before the leaves. The "Pussy-willow"
is familiar.
Fruit:
An incc:mspicuous green capsule.' Natural reproduction more often
takes place as brittle twigs break off and find a rooting medium in
damp soil or sphagnum.
Location: Common throughout the Region along water-courses, shores and
in swamps. A few species tolerate dry situations.
To identify:
1. Winter buds are covered with only one large scale, and always appear waxy.
2. In most species, the leaf shape is distinctive.
Value:
Important browse for moose and deer; shoots and buds eaten by
muskrat, beaver, rabbits and hares; provides excellent brood cover
for waterfowl.
3.41
-------
:\r#'
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-------
POISON SUMAC, POISON DOGWOOD, POISON ELDER
Toxicodendron (Rhus) vernix
CAUTION: All parts of this tree are contact poison.
Erect shrub or small tree to 6 meters (20 feet), usually without a distinct form.
All parts of this plant excrete a serious contact poison. Bark is gray and smooth.
New twigs shiny.
Leaves:
Compound, with 7 to 13 leaflets, each 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 inches)
long, with untoothed edges. The leaflets are opposite on the .Ieaf
stem, but the leaves are alternate on the branches.
Flowers:
Small, greenish, occurring in early summer as loose panicles at the
leafaxils.
Fruit:
Small (.5 cm) (1/5 inch) flattened globes, grayish-green. Begins to
ripen in late August, and serves as a food for song birds.
Location: South and West from southwest Maine, throughout the Region
only in swamps or at pond edges.
To identify:
1. All other native Sumacs bear flowers at the branch terminals; those of
Poison Sumac are in the leafaxils (junction between leaf and stem).
2. Distinguish from Elder by the alternate leaves and the smooth leaf edges.
3. Fall color is distinctive and decorative. DO NOT TOUCH!
Value:
Fruits eaten by numerous birds including pheasant and ruffed
grouse; twigs are food for cottontail rabbit.
3.43
-------
3.44
-------
AMERICAN CRANBERRY
Vaccinium macrocarpon
Slender, creeping broad-leaf evergreen with stems often 1 meter (3 feet) long.
The flowering branches are upright.
Leaves:
.6 to 1.3 cm (~ to % inch) long, with rounded tips, leathery in tex-
ture, dark glossy green above, pale below.
Flowers:
Small, pink, with recurved petals, occurring from June to August.
Fruit:
A round red berry 1.3 cm (% inch) or more in diameter, ripening
from September through November.
Location: Throughout the Region, in open acid bogs.
To identify:
1. Resembles Small Cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccus), but all parts of this
plant - leaves, stems, fruit - are larger. Deep red color in late fall through
early spring.
2. Other than seedlings of some shrub species, there are few p,lants which
could be mistaken for Cranberry.
Value:
Important commercial crop to man; Also eaten by small mammals,
grouse and pheasants.
3.45
-------
3.46
-------
BLUE FLAG
Iris versicolor
In marshes, wet meadows, and along stream banks, this is the showy, graceful,
sword-leafed plant which closely resembles the Siberian I ris of gardens. The blue-
violet flowers appear from May to July. Slender Blue Flag, with somewhat smaller
flowers and almost grass-like leaves are found in the marshes near the seacoast,
never more than 50 kilometers (30 miles) from tidewater.
Value:
Food for muskrats; Marsh birds eat seeds.
3.47
-------
3.48
-------
THOROUGHWORT
eupatorium spp.
Several species of Thoroughworts grow in dry upland conditions, but two,
Soneset (E. perfoliatum) and Joe-pye-weed (E. purpureum) are common in wooded
swamps and meadows. The flowers of both ap:pear from mid-July to late season
and are composed of numerous small, fuzzy heads in large, somewhat domed clus-
ters.
Sonesets are white-flowered, .6 to 1.5 meters (2 to 5 feet) high, with pairs of
wrinkled, veiny leaves which unite basally to encircle the stem.
Joe-pye-weeds are dull, pinkish purple, up to 2 meters (6 feet) in height, with
leaves arranged in whorls of 3 or 4. Have an odor of vanilla when crushed.
Value:
Leaves and fruits are food for mallards and grouse.
3.49
-------
3.50
-------
THE LOOSESTRI FES
WATER-WILLOW, SWAMP LOOSESTRI FE
Decodon vertici/latus .
This half-shrub, half-herb of swamps, bogs, and shallow water has 4- to 6-
sided arching branches which root at the tips, then send out more arching branches.
Leaves are dark green, glossy, willow-shaped, opposite or in whorls of 3, turning
bright red in Autumn.
Small lavender flowers appear as tufts in the upper leafaxils in July and August.
Winter die-back rarely reaches the crowns of these plants, and Spring budding
begin near the bases of old stems.
Value:
Cover for waterfowl; Seeds are food for ducks; Stems are eaten
by muskrats. Stabilizes muds at pond edges.
3.51
-------
3.52
-------
PURPLE LOOSESTRI FE, SPI KED LOOSESTRI FE
Lythrum salicaria
This is the tall, aggressive import from Europe which has formed the magenta
covers now common to many of our broad meadows. The tapering spikes of slender-
petaled flowers occur from June to September at the tips of every branch of this up-
right, much-branched, shrub-like perennial. Most often found in wet situations, this
Loosestrife and other similar species may be found in dry locations.
The leaves are stemless, downy, somewhat heart-shaped at the base, opposite
or in 3's.
Value:
This plant is considered to be low in value for wildlife and may
monopolize an area better occupied by more valuable flora. .
3.53
-------
3.54
-------
THE FERNS
SENSITIVE FERN
Onoclea sensibilis
A common, ",et unusual fern of wet soils, in either sun or shade, earning its
name by its sensitivity to early frosts, dying quickly.
Leaves are 1.2 meters (2 feet) tall, coarse, broad, almost triangular, tilting
upward and backward. Network-forming veins in the leaflets are prominent. Upper
leaflets are connected by wings along the stem.
Best identification is the presence of the fertile leaflets, which remain upright
after the sterile leaves have died. These are about .3 meters (1 foot) high, and bear
the small hardened, bead-like spore cases. Often remain through two seasons.
3.55
-------
3.56
-------
MARSH FERN
Dryopteris thelypteris
Common in swamps, sterile meadows, and b<;>gs. A delicate fern, usually 45 cm
(18 inches) tall, pale green forming rather dense masses of fernery. Similar to several
other ferns, but have a few distinguishing features: (1) The stalk is smooth, slender
and pale green in the area of the leaflets, but black at the base; (2) The ferti Ie
leaflets (those which bear the spores) are narrow, and constricted by the margins
curving over the fruitdots (clusters of spores); (3) The lowest leaflets exhibit a
twisting growth while those above are in a flat plane.
3.57
-------
3.58
-------
THE CARNIVORES
PITCHER PLANT
Sarracenia purpurea
With the tube as a receptacle, the prominent wing as the handle, and the large
lip as the pouring spout, it is the leaf of this plant which gives it its name. The
rosette of leaves, which vary in color from bright green in shady places to dark
purple in the sun, may be from 15 to 50 cm (6 to 20 inches) in diameter. These
leaves are usually found half-filled with water and drowned insects whose nutri-
ents are absorbed by the plant. These insects are attracted by a "honey gland"
inside the leaf, and the down-turned hairs on the I ip prevent their escape.
The flower occurs May - July on a separate stalk, extending 20 to 60 cm
(8 to 24 inches) above the leaves. Nodding, almost globular, up to 4.5 cm (1 %
inches) in diameter, a dull, dark red color.
Found in Sphagnum bogs, leather-leaf stands or peat barrens.
3.59
-------
3.60
-------
SUNDEW
Drosera spp.
In the same habitats as the Pitcher Plant, only in full sun, 3 species of Sundew
may be found in Region I. Round-leaf, Spatulate-leaf, and Threadleaf, the last
only in the southeastern section. The names describe the differences. All have
reddish gland-bearing bristles which exude a glutinous fluid, glittering like dew-
drops. It is these bristles which attract and then entrap insects which are then
digested by a proteinaceous ferment.
Th is is a small plant, the rosette of leaves rarely exceed ing 15 cm (6 inches)
in diameter. Flowers, white to pinkish, are borne on only one side of a naked arch-
ing stem. Usually, only one flower at a time is open, and this is always at the top
of the arch.
Pictured:
Top - Drosera rotundifo/ia (Round-leaf)
Bottom - D. rotundifo/ia in flower.
3.61
-------
3.62
-------
THE ARUMS
All the members of this family (Araceae) are mud lovers. Our natives include
Skunk Cabbage, Sweetflag, Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Green Dragon, Arrow Arum, and
Water Arum. The flower is di.stinctive. Using a familiar Jack-in-the-Pulpit as an
example, the "Jack" is the flowering part (spadix) and the "Pulpit" is its protective
envelope (spathe). Only the Sweetflag blossom is naked, without a spathe.
ARROW ARUM
Pe/tandra virginica
The large, fleshy arrowhead-shaped leaves with a prominent upside-down "v"
formed by the midribs, identifies this Arum. The slender spadix is almost concealed
by the 10 to 18 cm (4 to 7 inch) erect, pointed spathe. 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18
inches) in height. The fruit is a cluster of green berries.
Value:
Excellent cover for waterfowl; berries are food for waterfowl, marsh
birds and muskrat.
3.63
-------
:~
3.64
-------
WATER AR~M, WILD CALLA
Calla palustris
The spathe (enclosing sheath) of the Calla oflly partially clasps the short golden
spadix (spike-like flowers) and broadens out as an attractive, pure white "petal"
2.5 to 5 cm (1 to 2 inches) across. Closely resemples the Calla Lily used by commer-
cial florists. The fruit is a cluster of bright red berries. Leaves are heart-shaped, 5 to
13 cm (2 to 5 inches) long, dark glossy green.
3.65
-------
3.66
-------
PICKEREL WEED
Pontederia cordata
This fleshy leaved plant with the blue flower in spikes, which wilt rapidly
when picked are commonly found throughout the region, in the shallow waters
of marshes, ponds, or slow-moving streams. Often intermingled with Arrow Arum,
the leaves are distinguishable by the parallel veins which follow the contours of
the arrowhead-shaped, round-lobed foliage.
Value:
Leaves eaten by Canada goose; roots and seeds are food for muskrats
and waterfowl; provides cover.
3.67
-------
3.68
-------
BOG-COTTON, COTTON-GRASS
Eriophorum spp.
Perennial rush-like or grass-like herbs, with slender, wiry stems. 6 species found
in Region I, but not commonly. Depending upon the species, height is from 15 cm
to over 1 meter (6 inches to over 3 feet). Found in wet bogs and along shorelines
where roots are kept cool by spring water. The tightly-packed wooly heads - pure
white to tawny in color - show from late June to October.
3.69
-------
3.70
-------
BOG MOSS, PEAT MOSS
Sphagnum spp. .
The thick spongy pale green mats common to many wetland situations are
composed of one or more' sp~cies of Sphagnum. It is the largest growing moss in
the Region, often growing a foot in one season. Its most distinguishing character-
istic is, unfortunately, microscopic, involving the identification of the two kinds
of leaf cells: small, green cells. for food production, and large, dead cells for water
storage.
Sphagnum's most importallt function as a member of the wetland plant com-
munity is in providing a rooting medium or a seed bed for its companion plants
and storing water in times of excess moisture.
It floats on water. Successive generations of floating sphagnum can form "quak-
ing bogs" (so named because of flexing when walked over), and floating islands.
3.71
-------
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3,72
-------
SMARTWEED
Polygonum spp.
There are some 25 to 30 species and varieties of Smartweed in Region I, found
in full range of habitats from aquatic to dry barrens. Determination of exact spe-
cies is a science for expert only. Leaf sizes vary from 3 to 15 cm (1 % to 6 inches)
in length. The tiny flowers, pink to white, are in terminal spike-like clusters. The
most easily identifiable feature is the swelling and the sheath at each leaf joint.
Value:
Food for waterfowl, marsh birds and upland game birds; also food
and cover for fish.
3.73
-------
3.74
-------
DUCKWEED
Lemna minor
Four genera of the family Lemnaceae may be found in the Region, but the most
common is the Lesser Duckweed (illustrated). All are minute stemless plants, float-
ing free on or in the water. These are almost the simplest and smallest of all our
flowering plants. Only Wo/ffia sp. (water-meal) is smaller. The tiny fronds of the
Lesser Duckweed are individual, but usually two or three cohere, giving the appear-
ance of being a multiple-leaf plant. Each frond has a single hanging rootlet.
These are the plants which often mat together and form a solid mantle of
green on a ponded area. Ducks and some fish eat them.
3.75
-------
3.76
-------
FRAGRANT WATER LILY
Nymphaea odorata
This is the more common White Water Lily of New England, but, in many
ponds, the Tuberous Water Lily (Nymphaea tuberosa) has been naturalized. Two
very obvious features distinguish between the two: (1) The Fragrant Water Lily has
a sweet, heavy scent, detectable even from a distance, while the Tuberous Water
Lily is almost odorless; (2) The underside of the platter-like leaves of the Fragrant
Water Lily are usually purplish red, while those of the Tuberous are green. Flowers
forms are similar, and quite variable.
Value:
Seeds, stems and roots are food for ducks and marsh birds; Plant is
food for beaver, muskrat, deer and moose.
3.77
-------
3.78
-------
3.79
-------
COASTAL WETLAN DS
4.00
-------
COASTAL WETLANDS OF REGION I
Just as the permanently saturated areas of an inland wetland may be identified
by the vegetative cover, so too, may the tidal zones of a coastal marsh be deter-
mined by the changes in vegetation as one progresses from one zone to the next.
For the purpose of administration of existing laws and regulations, the identifica-
tion of the following three zones should be sufficient: (1) The inter-tidal zone;
(2) the high marsh; and (3) the transition zone between high marsh and upland.
A wetland boundary is often difficult to delineate in the transition zone, but one
should be able to tell complete wetland from complete upland using this manual.
The following listing of plant species separated by zonal location are typical of
New England coastal marshes.
1. The Inter-Tidal Zone. This is the lowest part of the marsh, subject to
twice daily flooding by the ebb and flow of normal tides.
ALGAE (SEAWEED)
Ascophyllum nodosum
Enteromorpha intestina/is
Fucus vesicu/osis
Rhodymenia pa/mata
VIva /actuca
Knotted Wrack*
Green Seaweed*
Rockweed*
Dulse*
Sea Lettuce*
VASCULAR PLANTS
Spartina a/terniflora
Salt Marsh Cordgrass
2. The High Marsh. This is the area subject to flooding only by the higher
spring tides. At some seasons there may be intervals of no tidal flooding.
GRASSES AND RUSHES
Distich/is spicata
Juncus gerardii
Spartina patens
Spike Grass
Black Grass
Salt Meadow Cordgrass
*Not shown
4.01
-------
SHRUBS AND HERBS
A triplex sp.
Aster tenuifolius
Baccharis halimifolia
Iva frutescens
Limonium carolinianum
Plantago oliganthos
Pluchea purpurascens
Solidago sempevirens
Suaeda spp.
Orach*
Marsh Aster*
Groundsel Tree*
Marsh Elder
Sea Lavender
Seaside Plantain*
Salt Marsh F leabane*
Seaside Goldenrod
Sea Blite
2a. Pannes. These are depressions in the high marsh where evaporation of
sea water has elevated the salt levels to 50-60 parts per thousand.
Plantago juncoides
Salicomia bigelovii
Salicomia europaea
Salicomia virginica
Early Seaside Plantain*
Dwarf Saltwort (Annual)
Samphire (Annual)
Perennial Glasswort
3. The Transition Zone. Flooding occurs only by extreme storm tides. Grades
into the brackish area, influenced by freshwater mixing.
GRASS-LIKE SPECIES
Agrostis alba var. palustris
Ammophila breviligulata
Eleocharis spp.
Elymus virginicus
Festuca rubra
Panicum longifolium
Panicum virgatum
Phragmites australis
Scirpus spp.
Redtop Grass*
Beach Grass
Sedges*
Seaside Wild Rye*
Red Fescue Grass*
Panic Grass*
Switch Grass*
Reed Grass
R ushes*
SHRUBS AND HERBS
Amelanchier laevis
Chenopodium rubrum
Gerardia maritima
Hibiscus palustris
Lythrum salicaria
Myrica pensylvanica
Oenothera biennis
Polygonum glaucum
Rosa palustris
Salsola kali
Spergularia marina
Typha spp.
Shadbush*
Coast Blite*
Seaside Gerardia*
Mallow (Cape and Islands)*
Spiked Loosestrife
Bayberry
Evening Primrose*
Seabeach Knotweed*
Swamp Rose*
Saltwort
Sand Spurry*
Cattail*
*Not shown
4.02
-------
SALT
MARSH
TRANSITION
ZONES
A rEw SELECTED REPRESENTATIVE SPECIES
ttOT Al.L FLORA SIKIWN ARE TO SCALE I
Beach
Gras&
Poison
Ivy
Beach
Plum
Pitch
Pine
Marsh
Elder
-PANNE---'
Seasid.e
P\antam
Slender
GJabswort L~~~der
Perennial
Glasswort
Ha I berd .Ieaved
Orach
Spike
Grass
~
o
(,J
Figure 3
-------
SALT MARSH
!'"
o
~
Tidal marshes, as they exist today, are the youngest of New England's wetlands.
During the last Ice Age, part of the present continental shelf formed the coastal
plain, but rising sea levels due to glacial melt have "drowned" former fresh marshes,
bogs, and river valleys. The land/sea interface constantly changes, as submergence
continues at a rate of about one foot per century, (apparently 2-3 times this rate
has been recently recorded), but as rivers continue the seaward transport and deposi-
tion of inland sediments, the coastal area is just about holding its own along river
supplied barrier beaches. Along glacially-deposited shores, erosion rates of up to
6 feet per year occur with no unusual storms to accelerate the process; 20 feet
per year has been catalogued as storm loss in some localities. These marshes and the
banks of their streams are alternately flooded and exposed on each tidal cycle.
The area that is flooded is dependent upon its elevation above the mean water
level and its slope from the water's edge to the bordering upland. The vegetative
cover changes in species, abundance, and size, depending on environmental factors
such as water salinity, duration of inundation, ground water influence, hydrogen
sulfide concentration, and soil temperature.
-------
COASTAL WETLAN D PLANTS
5.00
-------
CORDGRASS
There are four common species of Spartina found along the New England coast:
Spartina alternif/ora, Spartina patens, Spartina cynosuroides, and Spartina pec-
tinata. The various species of Spartina can quite predictably be located in specific
areas of salt marshes, depending on elevation and the amount of tidal irrigation
(and thus the water level and salinity of the plant's environment. Spartina alterni-
flora, for example, predominates low marsh areas which are daily flooded or on mud
banks adjoining tidal streams. This is the most common species of cordgrass found
in New England. Spartina patens inhabits the middle elevation levels, which remain
quite wet from tidal influx, but are frequently brackish. Spartina patens is also
common in New England. Most marshes along the Cape, for example, are composed
almost entirely of S. alterniflora and S. patens; the progression from one species to
another often clearly visible in the dark green line of demarcation where the S.
patens growth begins. S. cynosuroides (reaches north only to Cape Cod) can be
found in high-water or spring and storm tide levels of some salt marshes. S. pectinata
is usually found in fresh water marshes or occasionally at the outer edges of estu-
arine wetlands. Only Spartina alterniflora and Spartina patens are described herein.
5.01
-------
SALT MARSH CORDGRASS
Spartina alternif/ora
Tall (1 to 2 meters), or short (.5 meters) varieties of Salt Marsh Cordgrass.
Stems arise from interconnected rhizomes (underground root stalks).
Leaves:
Flat, smooth, tough stalks, tapering to a long, thin tip; 0.4 to 1.5
cm (1/8 to % inch) wide; grows up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall.
Flowers:
Flower spikes 2 to 15 cm (% to 5 % inches) long, consisting of short,
broad, white spikelets, growing in the same direction from one side
of the stem. Present from July through September.
Location: Common throughout coastal areas of New England. Best growth
occurs primarily in lower salt marsh areas, especially along tidal
creeks where aeration of the root zone occurs.
To identify:
1. Smooth, flat, leathery blades of grass.
2. White flower cluster from July through September.
Value:
Major source of food for entire estuarine food chain; entire plant
(including detritus) utilized by birds, fish, shellfish and other tide-
water invertebrates and mammal species inhabiting a salt marsh.
Seeds and rootstock are significant food sources for waterfowl.
Also, of primary value as first-line erosion control defense and
absorption of stormwave energy.
5.02
-------
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-------
SALT MEADOW CORDGRASS
Spartina patens
A finer species of salt marsh grass, sometimes referred to as Saltmeadow Hay.
Grows in almost pure stands.
Leaves:
Dark green, blade folded in a u-shape with the "u" facing upward;
usually two to five leaves per stem; stems arise from matted vege-
tation from previous years growth.
Flowers:
Purple flowers. Smaller spike than Spartina alterniflora [1 to 6
cm long (.4 to 2.4 inches)] with an overall more oval and compact
appearance.
Location: Occurs on the high or in brackish saltmeadows above normal high
tide. Common throughout the New England coastline regions.
To identify:
1. Dark green folded leaves;
2. Purple flower spikes through the summer;
3. Stands of this plant have windblown "cowlick" appearance.
Value:
Can be harvested as hay to be used as food for domestic livestock.
Erosion and storm damage control; entire plant is edible - seeds,
stems, roots, and detritus provide food for shellfish and other tide-
water invertebrates, ducks, geese, shore and marsh birds, deer and
small mammals.
5.04
-------
-:--....""..
-
5.05
-------
SALT GRASS, SPIKE GRASS, ALKALI GRASS
Distich/is spicata
Pale or whitish green grass with rigid stems, usually forming dense colonies
in association with Spartina patens 8 to 60 cm (3 inches to 2 feet tall). Common
invader of newer marsh areas claimed by the rising sea and of the higher bare tidal
marsh pannes. But found in a variety of locations through the salt marsh where
elevation is slightly greater than compared to surrounding areas.
Leaves:
Smooth margins with bluntish tips, up to 15 cm (5.9 inches) long.
Arranged in two vertical rows along the stem. The base of the leaves
wrap around the stem and overlap each other.
Flowers:
In pale green clusters, dense and spike-like, up to 8 cm (3.2 inches)
long, blooming from August through October.
Location: Common throughout all coastal areas of New England.
To identify: .
1. A distinguishing feature is that the previous years leaf blades remain curled
around the stem.
Value:
Provides nesting cover and food for waterfowl. The seeds, plants,
and roots are eaten by ducks, geese, marsh and shore birds, small
mammals and deer. Along with Spartina patens, it is an important
source of food for detritus feeders (organisms which live on dead
plants and other organic materials).
5.06
-------
-- -
5.07
-------
SEA LAVENDER, MARSH ROSEMARY, MARSH HEATHER
Umonium spp., Umonium caro/inianum, Umonium nashii
Perennial plant 15 to 60 cm (6 to 24 inches) tall, growing from July to Octo-
ber commonly found in the tidal marsh.
Leaves:
Only at the base of the plant (basal rosette), thick, smooth, spoon
shaped or broad-lance shaped.
Stem:
One or more leafless, many branched stems, bearing flowers, grow
from a central point of this plant. Thick and woody at the base.
Flowers:
Small 5-petaled, lavender flowers cover the branches of the flower-
ing stalk from late summer to early fall. These two species are
very difficult to tell apart, differing only in the detailed structure
of the tiny flowers.
Location: Common throughout all coastal areas of New England.
To identify:
1.
The stalk of this plant resembles an elaborate candelabra. When in flower,
Sea Lavender is one of the most beautiful marsh plants.
2.
Basal rosette.
5.08
-------
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5.09
-------
BLACK GRASS
Juncus gerardi
Dark green rush 15 to 80 crT) (6 to 31 inches), salt tolerant, it can grow through-
out the marsh. A bank of black grass usually is present at the upper landward
drier edge of the tidal marsh. Growth season June through September.
Leaves:
Very narrow, soft and green. One leaf usually extends level to or
above the flower seed head.
Stems:
In small tufts, scarcely flattened, stiff.
Flowers:
The stem ends in a cluster of brown flowers resembling miniature
lilies with a dark brown seed (with vertical purple stripes if ex-
amined closely) protruding from the floral envelope in late summer.
This produces a dark brown-black color in this marsh zone lasting
through late Autumn.
Location: Common throughout all coastal areas of New England.
Value:
Used as food by waterfowl and upland game birds; attracts marsh
and song birds; roots may be eaten by muskrat and moose. At lower
elevations, fiddler crabs burrow under its roots. Juncus sp. may be
important nitrogen-fixing plants in the marsh.
5.10
-------
5.11
-------
GLASSWORT
Sa/icornia spp.
Sa/icornia europaea - Glasswort or Samphire
Sa/icornia bige/ovii - Dwarf Saltwort
Salicornia virginica - Woody Glasswort
These are three species of the plant wh ich are salt-tolerant, green fleshy (succu-
lent) jointed but leafless plants. All three species grow close to the ground, usually
no taller than 30 cm (12 inches), forming small patches, sometimes filling large
salt depression areas entirely.
Two of the species are annuals: S. europaea and S. bige/ovii. Both turn yellow
or red in the autumn. The third species, S. virginica, is a perennial and turns brown
or lead-colored in the fall.
Flowers:
Greenish, inconspicuous flowers which are recessed in the joints
from August through November in all three species.
To identify:
S. europaea:
Grows approximately 5 to 30 cm (2 to 12 inches) high; joints
are longer than they are thick 1.5 to 3 mm thick (.06 to .1 inches).
Each branch of the plant has the shape of the classic western
fork cactus.
S. bige/ovii:
Grows 3 to 30 cm (1 to 12 inches) high; joints are thicker than
they are long 4 to 6 mm th ick (.15 to .24 inches).
S. virginica:
Plant has creeping main woody stem from which the jointed
stalks grow up; also located along borders of salt marshes.
Value:
I n all three species, the stems are edible and serve as food for water-
fowl, geese and ducks. S. europaea and S. bige/ovii are attractive
"wild edibles" for man and can be pickled.
5.12
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5.13
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SEA BLiTE - Suaeda spp.
Low Sea Blite - Suaeda maritima
High Sea Blite - Suaeda linearis
Fleshy, salt-tolerant pale green plant growing in depressions of the salt marsh
and along the high tide line of the seashore. Growth season July through October.
Leaves:
Fleshy, linear, almost cylindrical with a flattened surface on top
and rounded tip, up to 5 cm (2 inches) long. The stems may be
tinged with red.
Flowers:
One to four inconspicuous pale green flowers grow out of the junc-
tion of the leaves with the stems (axils).
Suaeda maritima may form dense low mats of profusely branching individuals,
5 to 40 cm (2 to 15 inches) high. Flowers are replaced by small red seeds, 2 mm
broad. Leaves pale green and usually whitened.
Suaeda linearis may grow upright (erect) reaching .6 meters (two feet) or more.
Flowers are replaced by small black seeds, 1.2 to 1.5 mm (.05 to .06 inches) broad.
Leaves deep green and not whitened.
Location: Common throughout all coastal areas of New England.
5.14
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5.15
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SAL TWORT, PRICKLY GLASSWORT, BARRI LA-PLANT
Salsola kal;
Fleshy, salt-tolerant, bushy, annual plant that is commonly found on sandy
beaches, July to October. Its many stout rigid branches may reach up to 60 cm
(2 feet) high.
Leaves:
Grayish green, awl-shaped, stiff with a hair-like prickle at tip; .6 to
2.6 cm (% to 1 inch) long.
Flowers:
Whitish or yellowish flowers grow singly out of the leafaxils (junc-
tion of the leaves with the stems) blooming July through September.
Location: Common throughout all coastal areas of New England.
To identify: Very prickly.
Value:
Seeds, foliage and stems may be eaten by small mammals and deer.
Seeds may be eaten by birds.
5.16
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5.17
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MARSH ELDER
Iva frutescens
A perennial shrub which invades the edges of salt marshes and grows in clumps
or thickets. Only the lower portion of the plant is woody. Height is up to 2 meters
(6.5 feet).
Leaves:
Lance shaped, sharply toothed and oblong.
Flowers:
Occur from August through October and are pale greenish white,
, distinctive pistils and stamens in the same flower head. The flowers
are on spikes arising from the leafaxils.
Location: Estuaries along the edges of salt marshes from the coast of Maine
to Southern Connecticut. This species is used to help identify the
transition zone from salt marsh to upland.
To identify: Grows up from one main woody stem then branches out.
Value:
Transition zone plant, useful in identifying where saltmarsh ends
and low lying lands subject only to occasional tidal or storm inun-
dation occur.
5.18
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5.19
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BAYBERRY
Myrica pensylvanica
A shrub which can attain heights of approximately 2 meters (6.5 feet). Found
at the edge of salt marshes or higher ground.
Leaves:
Flowers:
Fruit:
Location:
Oblong shaped and slightly toothed at the margins near the tip.
2.5 to 5 cm (1 to 2 inches).
Greenish, inconspicuous flowers with no petals or sepals. Bloom
occurs during early spring.
Clusters of small pearl-shaped, grayish-white wax-covered fruits
which grow in clumps along the woody stalk like mini-berries. The
berries appear in late summer and remain into early winter.
The plant is located on the upland side of the saltmarsh. This plant
species may be used to help identify the transition zone from salt
marsh to upland vegetation. Grows only where freshwater occurs
in the soil.
To identify: A shrub with characteristic bush shape; leaves shiny and fruit
(berries) are usually present. Leaves or berries, when crushed, have
characteristic bayberry smell.
Value:
The berries are the source of the aromatic wax used in making bay-
berry candles and some industrial deodorants. The plant fixes ni-
trogen thus is deep green and through shedding of leaves enriches
the soil.
5.20
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5.21
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SEASIDE GOLDENROD
Solidago sempervirens
Conspicuous salt-tolerant plant found throughout vegetated dune areas, on
sea cliffs, and in high portions of salt marshes. Its size ranges from 20 cm (.8 inches)
on poor soils to 2 meters (6.5 feet) tall in fertile soils, usually 45 to 60 cm (18 to
24 inches) tall. Growth season July through November. Note that it flowers later
than common goldenrod.
Leaves:
Lance-shaped fleshy, smooth leaves cover its stout fleshy stem.
The lower leaves partly clasp the stem.
Flowers:
Brilliant golden yellow flowers in fall, mostly September, from
arching elongate, branching flower clusters at the ends of the stems.
Location: Common throughout all coastal areas of New England.
Value:
The seeds and foliage are occasionally eaten by some song birds
and small animals.
5.22
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5.23
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BEACH GRASS
Ammophi/a brevi/igu/ata
Tall deep green grass associated with sand dunes and sand ridges located along
and behind the beaches.
Leaves:
Can be identified by the leaf alone; the top side of the leaf (blade)
has ten or twelve parallel lines running from the base of the blade to
its tip.
Flower:
Thick, white flower spike 2 to 16 cm (.8 to 6.3 inches) long. Flowers
bloom in late June into July. Usually the beach grass blooms slightly
earlier than Spartina a/ternif/ora.
Location: Coastal areas throughout New England.
To identify:
1.
Grows in stands; associated with sand dunes or other sandy areas. The
grass blades are rough and jagged. The plant can grow well above the
tide level.
2.
Rhizomes (u'1derground rootstocks) grow in a linear fashion producing
new clumps of growth.
Value:
It is used for dune reclamation, formation, and to help reduce wind
erosion of both dunes and portions of the beach. Food for I pswich
Sparrow and Snow Bunting. Valuable as a soil binder.
5.24
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5.25
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COMMON REED, REED GRASS
Phragmites australis (communis)
A very conspicuou's grass, 1 to 4 meters (3 to 13 feet) tall, found in both fresh
and brackish marshes. An invader of wet disturbed areas,. these plants can grow
in dense stands.
Leaves: . Green, 15 to 60 cm (6 to 24 inches.) long, 1.3 to 5 em (~ to 2
inches) wide.
Flowers:
In the fall, the stout erect stems end in a plume-like flowering head,
which may exceed 30 cm (1 foot) in length, purplish in color.
The whole plant turns a light brown in fall and persists through
winter.
Location: Commonly found in fresh and brackish marshes, pond margins,
ditches and disturbed wet areas throughout New England, especial-
ly where a salt/freshwater interface occurs.
Value:
Serves as food for muskrats and supports insects, which in turn
serve as food for fish. Little food value to wildfowl. Because of its
thick, mat-like roots, it helps stabilize soil subject to erosion. Ph rag-
mites sp. has a great capacity to remove and store nutrients, it can
also be used for dewatering dredged materials. Originally from
Europe, this plant has become a nuisance by outcompeting more
valuable plants, especially in Connecticut's coastal marshes.
5.26
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5.27
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SUMMARIES OF NEW ENGLAND
WETLAND LAWS
6.00
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CONNECTICUT WETLAND LAWS
A. Freshwater Wetlands
I. Definition - Freshwater wetlands are areas such as banks, bogs, swamps,
meadows and submerged land. Soil types designated as poorly drained,
very poorly drained, alluvial and flood plain by the National Cooperative
Soils Survey define inland (freshwater) wetlands for regulatory purposes.
II. Permits
1. Activities Covered - Permits are required for regulated activities in
wetlands (C.G.S.A. Sections 22a-28 to 22a-45, as amended). Regulated
Activities include:
- excavation
- deposition
- obstruction
construction
- alteration
- pollution
That is, any development or alteration of a wetland or watercourse re-
quires a permit.
2. Criteria for Issuance - The local wetland agency or the Commissioner
of the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection must con-
sider the effect of the proposed project according to the following values:
a. environmental impact of the proposed action;
b. alternatives to the proposed action;
c. relationship between short term uses of the environment and the
maintenance and enhancement of long-term productivity;
d. irreversible and irretrievable commitments of resources which would
be involved in the proposed project;
e. the character and degree of injury to or interference with safety,
health or the reasonable use of property which is caused or threaten-
ed;and
f. the suitability or unsuitability of such a project to the area for which
it is proposed.
7.01
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3. Agency - The State has delegated regulatory authority to 143 towns.
Usually a town has established an inland wetlands agency. In towns where
such an agency has not been established, very often the Conservation Com-
mission or the Planning Board performs this function. As of August 1980,
the following municipalities had not received delegation:
Bantam (Borough only)
Bridgeport
Bridgewater
Chaplin
Columbia
Milford
Monroe
New Haven
New Milford
New London
Portland
Preston
Sterling
Stratford
Voluntown
Wallingford
Waterbury
Willington
Windsor Locks
Towns that do not have their own wetlands agency are regulated by the
State Inland Wetlands Unit. Information and applications for permits can be
obtained from the:
Inland Wetlands Unit
Department of Environmental Protection
State Office Building
Hartford, CT 06115
(203) 566-7280
B. Coastal Wetlands
I. Definition - Tidal wetlands are those areas which border on or lie beneath
tidal waters such as banks, salt marshes, swamps, meadows, flats or other low
lands subject to tidal action; including those areas now or formerly con-
nected to tidal waters, and whose surface is at or below an elevation of one
foot above local extreme high water; and upon which may grow or be
capable of growing saltwater tolerant plants.
II. Permits
1. Activities Covered - A permit is required from the Connecticut Depart-
ment of Environmental Protection, Wetlands Management Section, Coastal
Program for projects in coastal wetlands that involve any of the following
activities (C.G .S.A. Sections 22a- to 22a-45, as amended):
Erection of structures; placement of fill; encroachment; dredging;
draining; excavation; removal of soil, mud, sand or gravel; driving
of piles.
7.02
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2. Criteria for Issuance - The Commissioner of the DEP must consider the
effect of the proposed project on public health and welfare, marine fisheries,
shell fisheries, wildlife, the protection of life and property from floods,
hurricanes, and other natural disasters and the public policy set forth in the
act.
3. Agency - The Coastal program of the Wetlands Management Section,
Water Resources Unit of the Connecticut Department of Environmental
Protection regulates activities in Coastal Wetlands. I nformation and appli-
cations for permits can be obtained from:
Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection
Water Resources Unit
Wetlands Management Section (Coastal Program)
State Office Building
Hartford, CT 06115
(203) 566-7160
C. Stream Channel Encroachment
I. Definition - Channel encroachment lines are established by the Commission-
er of the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection along any
tidal or inland waterway or flood-prone area beyond which, in the direction
of the waterway or flood-prone area, no obstruction or encroachment
may be placed unless authorized by the Commissioner.
II. Permits - Permits are required under C.G.S;A. Sections 25-4a to 2S-4g, as
amended, for construction channelward of stream channel encroachment
lines.
III. Criteria for Issuance - The Commissioner shall issue or deny permits based
upon his findings of the effect of the proposed project on flood carrying
and water storage capacity of the waterway and flood plains, flood heights,
hazards to life and property, and protection and preservation of the natural
resources and ecosystems of the state including ground and surface water,
animal, plant and aquatic life, nutrient exchange and energy flows and
cumulative impacts of similar encroachments.
IV. Information on encroachment lines and permit application can be obtained
from:
State of Connecticut
Department of Environmental Protection
Water Resources Unit
State Office Building
Hartford, CT 06115
(203) 566-7244
7.03
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8.00
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MAINE WETLAND lAWS
One of the services that the Maine Department of Environmental Protection offers
is called Citizens Environmental Assistance Service ("CEAS"). The Department
maintains a toll free phone number (800-452-1942) which can be reached from any
exchange in Maine. The receptionist who will answer will not in all instances be
able to answer a caller's question. The receptionist will take the caller's name, phone
number, question and any other information that applies to the situation and will
have someone who can answer the question call back. This service can be used to
get answers to Stream Alteration and land Use Regulation Commission questions
as well as questions about the Department of Environmental Protection and other
programs.
A. Freshwater Wetlands
I.
Great Ponds
a. Definition - A "great pond" is any inland body of water which in its
natural state has a surface area in excess of 10 acres, and any body of
water artificially formed or increased which has a surface area in excess
of 30 acres, the shore of which is owned by two or more persons, firms
or other legal entities. Marshes, bogs and swamps that are crctually part
of a great pond (the "normal high water line" of the pond can be fol-
lowed around the adjacent marsh, bog or swamp and back into the
pond) are included in this definition and are regulated.
b. Activities Covered - Construction or major repair of any,permanent
structure below the normal high water mark or permanent filling or
alteration of land adjacent to a great pond in a way that material may be
washed into the pond and its adjacent wetlands requires a permit under
the Great Ponds Alteration Act, 38 M.R.S.A. Section 386 et seq.
c. Criteria for Issuance - The Department of Environmental Protection
must consider the impact of proposed projects on existing recreational
use, navigation, scenic and aesthetic value, natural environs of the
great pond, soil erosion, natural flow of water, fish and wildlife habitat,
and water quality.
d. Agency - The Department of Environmental Protection is responsible
for administering the Great Ponds Act. Information and applications
for permits can be obtained from:
Maine Department of Environmental Protection
land Quality Control Bureau
State House, Augusta, ME 04333
(207) 289-2111
8.01
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Regional Offices:
17 Commercial Street
Portland, ME 04101
(207) 773-0196
31 Centra I Street
Bangor, ME 04401
(207) 947-6746
634 Main Street
Presque Isle, ME 04769
(207) 764-3737
II. R ivers, Streams and Brooks
a. Definition - R ivers, streams and brooks are defined as channels between
defined banks created by the action on surface water. Intermittent
watercourses are included in this definition. Channels that are com-
pletely man-made are not included in the definition except where altera-
tion of these channels may cause fill or a structure to fall or be washed
into natural channels.
b. Activities Covered - Dredging, filling or activities causing filling, or
erection of any permanent structure in, on, over or abutting any river,
stream or brook requires a permit under the Stream Alteration Act
(Alteration of Rivers, Streams, and Brooks, 12 M.R.S.A. Sections 7776
et seq). Permits are not required for public works projects that alter not
more than a total of 300 feet in any mile or shore nor for private cross-
ing or dam projects that alter not more than 100 feet in any mile of
shore.
c. Criteria for Issuance - The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wild-
life must consider the effect of the proposed project on recreation, navi-
gation, soil erosion, natural flow of any waters, fish and wildlife habitat,
and water quality when deciding whether or not to issue a permit.
d. Agency - Information and applications for permits can be obtained
from the:
Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
284 State Street
Augusta, ME 04333
C/O Planning Division
(207) 289-3286
8.02
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III. Inland Wetlands as zoned by the Land Use Regulation Commission (LURC)
in the unorganized territories of the State.
a. Definition - The Wetlands Protection Subdistrict for Inland Wetlands
includes areas enclosed by the normal high water mark of flowing
waters, stream channels, standing waters, and areas encompassing 10
acres or more in size identified by LURC as inland wetlands. Inland
wetlands include areas identified on the basis of soils or vegetation.
b. Activities Covered - Agricultural management activities, land manage-
ment roads, level B road projects, permanent docking and mooring
projects, water impoundments and structures require a permit from
LURC in accordance with 12 M.R.S.A. Section 685-B. Low intensity
uses within the subdistrict, such as fishing, hiking, boating, wildlife
study; and forest management practice, are allowed without a permit.
c. Criteria for Issuance - LURC will not approve an application for a per-
mit unless the proposed project will comply with the state's air and
water pollution control and other environmental laws. LU RC will also
consider the proposed project's impact on land, air, and water traffic;
scenic, natural, and historic resources; soil erosion; and water retention
capability to ensure that the public's health, safety, and general welfare
will be adequately protected. 12 M.R.S.A. Section 685-B.
d. Agency - Information and applications for permits can be obtained
from:
Land Use Regulation Commission
Maine Department of Conservation
State House
Augusta, ME 04333
(207) 289-2631
It should be noted that in some cases the Department of Environmental
Protection and the Land Use Regulatory Commission may both have
jurisdiction over the same area. (Le., a great pond in an unorganized
territory). In this case, if an applicant applies to and receives a permit
from LURC, a concurrent DEP permit will be issued. Also, it should be
noted that certain freshwater wetlands in the organized part of the
state are not covered by the state programs. Such wou Id be the case of
an isolated wetland that is not associated with a stream, river, brook
or great pond.
B. Coastal Wetlands
I.
Organized Terrorities
a. Definition - Coastal wetlands are all tidal and subtidal lands including
all areas below any identifiable debris line left by tidal action, all areas
8.03
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with vegetation present that is tolerant of salt water and occurs pri-
marily in a salt water habitat; and any swamp, marsh, bog, beach, flat or
other contiguous lowland which is subject to tidal action or normal
storm flowage at any time excepting periods of maximum storm activ-
ity. Coastal wetlands may include portions of coastal sand dunes.
b. Activities Covered - Construction of any permanent structure in, on, or
over a coastal wetland, or filling, dredging or draining a coastal wetland
requires a permit from the Maine Board of Environmental Protection
under 38 M.R.S.A. Section 471, et seq., or from the local municipality
if the Board has granted permitting authority to the municipality. As of
August 1980, Boothbay Harbor, Harrington and South port, Maine are
the only municipalities with permit granting authority.
In 1979, the legislature of the State of Maine passed an amendment to
the Coastal Wetlands Act to incorporate regulation of sand dune altera-
tion. Dunes are defined as sand areas deposited by wind or wave action
within a marine beach system. The regulatory jurisdiction begins at
high tide and covers the entire dune system including beach dunes.
c. Criteria for Issuance - I n considering an application for a permit, the
Maine Board of Environmental Protection (or an authorized municipal-
ity) must consider the impact of the proposed project on existing recrea-
tional and navigational uses; soil erosion; flow and circulation of waters;
fish and wildlife; and water quality. The applicant for a permit must
demonstrate that the project proposed will not unreasonably interfere
with or degrade these values.
d. Agency - Information and applications for permits can be obtained
from:
Department of Environmental Protection
Bureau of Land Quality Control
State House
Augusta, ME 04333
(207) 289-2111
II. Unorganized Territories
a. Definition - Coastal wetlands include areas with vegetation present that
is tolerant of salt water and occurs primarily in a salt water habitat and
any swamp, marsh, bog, beach, flat or other contiguous lowland which
is subject to tidal action or normal storm flowage at any time excepting
periods of maximum storm activity.
8.04
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b. Activities Covered - Agricultural management activities, land manage-
ment roads, level 8 road projects, permanent docking and mooring
projects, water impoundments and structures require a permit from
LURC in accordance with 12 M.R.S.A. Section 685-8. Low intensity
uses within the subdistrict, such as fishing, hiking, boating, wildlife
study, and forest management practice, are allowed without a permit.
c. Criteria for Issuance - LURC will not approve an application for a per-
mit unless the proposed project will comply with the state's air and
water pollution control and other environmental laws. LU RC will also
consider the proposed project's impact on land, air, and water traffic;
scenic, natural, and. historic resources; soil erosion; and water retention
capability to ensure that the public's health, safety, and general welfare
will be adequately protected. 12 M.R.S.A. Section 685-8.
d. Agency - I nformation and applications for permits for activities in
coastal areas in the unorganized territory of Maine can be obtained
frorn :
Land Use Regulatory Commission (LU RC)
Maine Department of Conservation
State House
Augusta, ME 04333
(207) 289-2631
I n some instances, the Department of Environmental Protection and the
Land Use Regulatory Commission may both have jurisdiction over the
same area. On such a case, if the application applies to and receives a
permit from LURC, a concurrent DEP permit will be issued.
8.05
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MASSACHUSETTS WETLAND LAWS
A. Freshwater Wetlands
I. Definition
Freshwater Wetlands are defined as wet meadows, marshes, swamps, bogs;
and areas where groundwater, flowing or standing surface water or ice pro-
vides a significant part of the supporting substrate for a wetland plant
community for at least five months of the year. Freshwater wetlands are also
defined as emergent and submergent plant communities in inland waters and
that portion of any bank which touches any inland waters.
II. Permits
1. Activities Covered - Locally issued permits are required for any activ-
ity that involves filling, dredging, removing or altering any bank, marsh,
meadow, swamp, bog, creek, river, stream, pond or lake. Permits are also
required for any of these activities on land subject to flooding. (M.G.L.
Chapter 131, Section 40; C.M.R. 310: 10.00 - Part I).
2. Criteria for Issuance - In considering an application (Notice of Intent)
for a permit (Order of Conditions), the issuing authority must evaluate the
impact of the proposed project on public and private water supply, ground
water supply, flood control, storm damage prevention, prevention of pollu-
tion, protection of land containing shellfish, and protection of fisheries.
3. Administering Agencies - The Wetlands Protection Act is administered
first at the local level by Conservation Commissions.* Any proponent of a
project that will affect wetlands in Massachusetts must receive permission
from the conservation commission of the town in which the project is lo-
cated. The applicant must file an application, known as a Notice of Intent,
with the Conservation Commission and DEOE. If the Conservation Commis-
sion does not meet any required permit processing period or if the applicant,
abutter, ten citizens of the town or any aggrieved person appeals the permit
(known as an Order of Conditions), DEOE will review the case and issue a
superseding Order of Conditions. Any person may request a Conservation
Commission to issue a written determination of whether any land is subject
to the jurisdiction of the wetland act. This is usually a determination of
whether the area in question suports a prevalence of wetland vegetation. An
* A few communities in Massachusetts do not have Conservation Commissions and the mayor or
selectman may act. If no local authority administers the program, the Act is administered com-
pletely by the Department of Environmental Quality Engineering (DEQE).
9.01
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applicant can request that the agency that issued the Order of Conditions
inspect the work after it is completed and issue a certificate of compliance
if the work was completed according to the Order of Conditions. Orders of
Conditions are valid for one year from the date of issuance, but may be
extended for additional one year periods by the issuing agency.
For information and applications, interested persons should contact the local
Conservation Commission or the DEQE regional office.
Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) - A filing under MEPA
is required for projects which will alter more than one acre of wetlands.
For information on this requirement, contact:
Department of Environmental Quality Engineering
Division of Wetland Protection
100 Cambridge Street, 20th Floor
Boston, MA 02202
(617) 727-9706
B. Coastal Wetlands
I. Definition
Coastal Wetlands are defined as any bank, marsh, swamp, meadow, flat or
other lowland (including beaches and dunes) subject to tidal action or
coastal storm flowage.
II. Permits
1. Activities Covered - Locally issued permits are required for any activ-
ity that involves filling, dredging, removing or otherwise altering any coastal
wetland, coastal dune, tidal flat, coastal bank, land subject to coastal storm
flowage or tidal action, or land under an estuary, a salt pond, or the ocean
or under certain streams, ponds, rivers, lakes, or creeks within the coastal
zone that are anadromous/catadromous fish runs. (M.G.L. Chapter 131,
Section 40; C.M.R. 310: 10.00 - Part II).
2. Criteria for Issuance - In considering an application for a permit (Order
of Conditions), the local Conservation Commission must evaluate the impact
of the proposed project on public and private water supply, groundwater
supply, flood control, storm damage prevention, prevention of pollution,
protection of land containing shellfish, and protection of fisheries. DEQE's
coastal wetlands regulations are in the form of performance standards, which
are intended to identify the level of protection the conservation commission
must impose in order to protect the interests of the Act.
9.02
-------
ERRATUM
To holders of EPA publication New Englcurl ~t1ands: Plant Identification curl
Prot.ecti ve Laws. .
.There is an error on pages 9.02 curl 9.03 where it reads that a f~ un:3er
the Massachusetts EnvirorIrental Policy Act (MEpA) is required for projects
that Will alter I'CDre than one acre of ~t1ands. .
In actuality, a filiD; un:3er MEPA is required only for projects which alter
I'CDre than one acre curl for which the local Order of Cbndi tions has been
~aled. Where there is IX> aweal to the State agency (DE'JE), IX> filiD;
under MEPA is required.
Property of
US Environmental ProtectiQ;1 Agencv
. Library Region x
AUG 3 1 1981
1200 Sixth Avenue
Seattle. WA 98101
-------
3. Administering Agencies - Any proponent of a project that will affect
wetlands in Massachusetts must receive permission from the Conservation
Commission of the town in which the project is located or from the State
Department of Environmental Quality Engineering (DEQE). (In a few towns
that have no Conservation Comm ission, the mayor and selectmen act). The
applicant must file an application, known as a Notice of Intent, with the
Conservation Commission and DEQE. If the Conservation Commission does
not meet any required permit processing period or if the applicant, abutter,
ten citizens of the town or any aggrieved person appeals the permit (known
as an Order of Conditions), DEQE will review the case and issue a supersed-
ing Order of Conditions. Any person may request a Conservation Com-
mission to issue a written determination of whether any land is subject to
the jurisdiction of the wetland act. An applicant can request that the agency
that issued the Order of Conditions inspect the work after it is completed
and issue a certificate of compliance if the work was completed according
to the Order of Conditions. Orders of Conditions are valid for one year from
the date of issuance, but may be extended for additional one year periods
by the issuing agency.
For information and applications, interested persons should contact the
local Conservation Commission or the DEQE regional office (see map at
end of this section).
Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) - A filing under MEPA
is required for projects which will alter more than one acre of wetlands.
For information on this requirement, contact:
Department of Environmental Quality Engineering
Division of Wetland Protection
100 Cambridge Street, 20th Floor
Boston, MA 02202
(617) 727-9706
C. Ocean and Coastal Sanctuaries
I. Definition
In Massachusetts, five areas have been designated to be ocean sancturies:
the Cape Cod Ocean Sanctuary, the Cape Cod Bay Ocean Sanctuary, the
Cape and Island Ocean Sanctuary, the North Shore Ocean Sanctuary, and
the South Essex Ocean Sanctuary. The boundaries of these sanctuaries are
described at M.G.L. c.132A, s.13 and generally extend three miles seaward
from a point on the mean low water line.
II. Permits
The Ocean Sanctuaries Act and its regulations do not require any permits
other than those already required by law. However, state and local per-
9.03
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mitting agencies are required to make their policies, permits, licenses, or any
other action conform to the Act. M.G. L. c.132A, s.18.
1. Activities Covered - The Department of Environmental Management
(DEM) has the responsibility to protect the ocean sanctuaries from any
exploitation, development, or activity that would seriously alter or other-
wise endanger the ecology or the appearance of the ocean, the seabed, or
the subsoil thereof, or the Cape Cod National Seashore. Such responsibility
includes the protection of marine productivity, storm buffers, habitat values,
water quality, flood control, navigation, recreation, and public health.
Certain activities in ocean sanctuaries are prohibited altogether, including the
removal of any minerals, such as sand or gravel; the dumping or discharge of
any industrial or commercial wastes; the incineration of solid waste material
or refuse on or in any vessel or boat; and the building of any structure on the
seabed or under the subso i I. M. G. L. c.132A, s.15.
2. Agency - I nformation may be obtained from the Department of Envir-
onmental Management, 19th Floor, 100 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA
02202. Telephone (617) 727-8893.
D. Wetland Restriction Program (From: Environmental Handbook for Massachu-
setts Conservation Commissions, 1978 edition, by Massachusetts Association of
Conservation Commissions; Lincolh-Filene Center, Tufts University, Medford,
MA) by Alexandra D. Dawson and N.H. Nickerson.
THE INLAND WETLANDS RESTRICTION ACT (M.G.L. C.131, s.40A)
This legislation was designed to supplement the regulative approach of the Wet-
lands Protection Act with a planning ,approach not dependent upon the land-
owner coming forward to apply for a permit. The Commissioner, Department of
Environmental Management, in order to preserve and promote public safety,
private property, wildlife, fisheries, water resources, flood plain areas and agri-
culture, is directed to issue orders restricting or prohibiting development of in-
land wetlands, defined as "freshwater wetlands" and "that portion of any bank
which touches any inland waters, or any freshwater wetland." The Commiss-
ioner is also directed to protect flood plains in areas subject to orders under this
statute, by forbidding obstruction or encroachment along waterways or flood
prone areas. No order can be issued until there has been a public hearing, notice
of which is sent to the conservation commission as well as every affected land-
owner. Although orders are issued by the Department, the selectmen or city
council must first review them. If the city or town officials disapprove an order,
they must state reasons for disapproval within 30 days. The Commissioner may
override local disapproval after a period of six months has elapsed. The final
order is recorded in the Registry of Deeds. It thereafter runs with the land and is
binding upon all present and future landowners.
9.04
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The statute requires the lan_downer to petition the Superior Court within 90
days to release the land. If the court agrees that the restriction upon use is
unconstitutionally severe, it will invalidate the order for the parcel in question.
Thereafter, the Department has the right to purchase or take the land or the
development rights, with the approval of the Governor and the Council. There is
a limited exemption for agricultural land. The order does not apply to work
done by various state agencies.
The Department has concentrated on the. Charles River Watershed and Cape
Cod. The law, like the Coastal Wetlands Restrictions Act, has two advantages
over zoning or the Wetlands Protection Act: notice to prospective buyers,
through recorded maps, and finality, because of the 90-day limitation period for
landowner lawsuits. .
THE COASTAL WETLANDS RESTRICTION ACT (M.G.L. c.130, s.105)
The statute is essentially similar to the Inland Wetlands Restriction Act as
amended in 1972. I n order to promote PUblic health, safety and welfare and
protect public and private property, wildlife and marine fisheries, the com-
missioner issues an order to restrict or prohibit dredging, filling, removing or
otherwise altering or polluting coastal wetlands. These include "any bank,
marsh, swamp, meadow, flat or other low land subject to tidal action or coastal
storm flowage and such contiguous land as the Commissioner of Environmental
Management reasonably deems necessary to. affect by any such order." The goal
of the Department is the protection of all barrier beaches, salt marshes, contigu-
ous freshwater marshes and tidal flats. This law is an important part of the
state's Coastal Zone Management program. .
It should be noted that these two restriction laws allow for protection of wild-
life, while the wetlands protection act does not.
For information on the wetlands restriction program for any particular area of
the state, call or write: .
Wetlands Restriction Program
Room 1904
Department of Environmental Management
100 Cambridge Street
Boston, MA 02202
(617) 727-8893
9.05
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NEW HAMPSHIRE WETLAND LAWS
A. Freshwater Wetlands
I. Definition - In New Hampshire, freshwater wetlands are defined as areas
wherever water stands or flows. These areas include streams, swamps, marsh-
es or bogs, which are determined by the presence of wetland vegetation.
Also, areas such as banks that are contiguous to the wet area and from which
fill would be likely to fall into the wet area if deposited, are included under
the jurisdiction of N.H.R.S.A., Chapter 483-A.
II. Permits
a. Chapter 483-A
1. Activities Covered - Activities such as filling, dredging, excavation,
mining, construction, and culverting in waters of the State require a
permit.
2. Criteria for Issuance - The state Wetlands Board is required to con-
sider the impact of the project on the following values before issuing a
permit: water quality (effects of siltation and turbidity), fish and wild-
life habitat, groundwater recharge, flood storage, pollution absorption,
recreation, aesthetics, and the interest of the general public. The Board is
not permitted to consider economic benefits claimed for the project.
Conservation commissions may raise issues that they think are important
to consideration of a project in a written report to the Wetlands Board.
The Wetlands Board must specifically consider the issues raised and must
make written findings with respect to each issue raised that is contrary
to the decision of the Board.
A municipality also has the right to designate its most valuable wetlands
as "prime wetlands." Permits for projects in areas so designated cannot
be granted by the Wetlands Board without special notification, docu-
mentation, and hearings.
3. Agency - Information and applications for permits may be obtained
from the:
New Hampshire Wetlands Board
37 Pleasant Street
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 271-2147
10.01
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b. Chapter 149:8-A
1. Activities Covered - Activities such as filling, dredging, culverting
and skidding logs in great ponds, streams, and swamps, and any activity
that causes significant alteration of the terrain and impedes natural run-
off and creates an unnatural run-off are prohibited without a permit.
2. Criteria for Issuance - Jurisdiction wi II be asserted under this chap-
ter if the activity causes or threatens to cause a violation of water quality
standards for the State.
3. Agency - The New Hampshire Water Supply and Pollution Control
Commission is charged with administering this chapter. They review ma-
jor projects or any that might prove to be controversial. I nformation on
applications for permits can be obtained by the:
New Hampshire Water Supply and Pollution Control Commission
Hazen Drive
P.O. Box 95
Concord, N H 03301
(603) 271-3503
B. Great Ponds
I.
Definition - Great ponds are natural water bod ies greater than 10 acres in
size, are publicly owned, and are overseen by the State of New Hampshire.
II. Permits
a. Chapter 483-A
1. Activities Covered - Activities such as filling, dredging, excavation,
mining, construction, and culverting in waters of the State require a
permit.
2. Criteria for Issuance - The State Wetlands Board is required to con-
sider the impact of the project on the following values before issuing a
permit: water quality (effects of siltation and turbidity), fish and wildlife
habitat, groundwater recharge, flood storage, pollution absorption, rec-
reation, aesthetics, and interest of the general public. The Board is not
permitted to consider economic benefits claimed for the project.
Conservation commissions may raise issues that they think are important
to consideration of a project in a written report to the Wetlands Board.
The Wetlands Board must specifically consider the issues raised and must
make written findings with respect to each issue raised that. is contrary
to the decision of the Board.
10.02
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A municipality also has the right to designate its most valuable wetlands
as "prime wetlands." Permits for projects in areas so designated cannot
be granted by the Wetlands Board without special notification, docu-
mentation and hearings.
3. Agency - Information and applications for permits may be obtained
from the:
New Hampshire Wetlands Board
37 Pleasant Street
Concord, N H 03301
(603) 271-2147
b. Chapter 149:8-A
1. Activities Covered - Activities such as filling, dredging, culverting
and skidding logs in great ponds, streams and swamps, and any activity
that causes significant alteration of the terrain and impedes natural run-
off and creates an unnatural run-off are prohibited without a permit.
2. Criteria for Issuance - Jurisdiction will be asserted under this chap-
ter if the activity causes or threatens to cause a violation of water quality
standards for the State.
3. Agency - The New Hampshire Water Supply and Pollution Control
Commission is charged with administering this chapter, they review
major projects or any that might prove to be controversial. Information
on applications for permits can be obtained by the:
New Hampshire Water Supply and Pollution Control Commission
Hazen Drive
P.O. Box 95
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 271-3503
c. Chapter 482:41 e through h
1. Activities Covered - Any filling or dock building or erection of any
structure in the beds of great ponds or on lands purchased by the State
for flowage behind State owned dams.
2. Criteria for Issuance - Consideration of permits under this chapter
is bound by a public interest standard. This means that the project may
be criticized on grounds other than narrow environmental standards that
apply in the case of other laws. A project may be criticized because it
will be too noisy, will be ugly, will disrupt the local economy or social
order and for any other reason that bears on the public interest.
10.03
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3. Agency - Applicants must apply to the Wetlands Board, which must
make an affirmative finding before the matter can be considered by the
Governor and Council. Further information on this chapter may be
obtained from the:
New Hampshire Wetlands Board
37 Pleasant Street
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 271-2147
d. Chapter 488-A
1. Activities Covered - Any dredging in great ponds or on lands pur-
chased by the State for flowage behind state owned dams is subject to
a permit under this chapter.
2. Criteria for Issuance - Under this chapter a public interest standard
is applied rather than the narrow environmental standards that apply
in the case of other laws. A project may be criticized because it will be
too noisy, will be ugly, will disrupt the local economy or social order or
for any other reason that bears on the public interest.
3. Agency - Applicants must apply to the Wetlands Board, which must
make an affirmative finding before the matter can be considered by the
Governor and Council. Further information on this chapter may be ob-
tained from the:
New Hampshire Wetlands Board
37 Pleasant Street
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 271-2147
C. Coastal Wetlands
I. Definition - Coastal wetlands are considered to be all areas below the local
mean high tide line and those areas above mean high tide up to an elevation
of 3.5 feet above mean high tide on which certain listed salt tolerant plants
,grow or are capable of growing.
II. Permits
a. Chapter 483-A
1. Activities Covered - Activities such as filling, dredging, excavation,
mining, construction, and culverting in waters of the State require a
perm it.
10.04
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2. Criteria for Issuance - The State Wetlands Board is required to con-
sider the impact of the project on the following values before issuing a
permit: Water quality (effects of siltation and turbidity), fish and wild-
life habitat, groundwater recharge, flood storage, pollution absorption,
recreation, aesthetics, and interest of the general public. The Board is
not permitted to consider economic benefits claimed for the project.
Conservation commissions may raise issues that they think are important
to consideration of a project in a written report to the Wetlands Board.
The Wetlands Board must specifically consider the issues raised and must
make written findings with respect to each issue raised that is contrary
to the decision of the Board.
A municipality also has the right to designate its most valuable wetlands
as "prime wetlands." Permits for projects in areas so designated cannot
be granted by the Wetlands Board wtihout special notification, documen-
tation, and hearings.
3. Agency - Information and applications for permits may be obtained
from the:
New Hampshire Wetlands Board
37 Pleasant Street
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 271-2147
b. Chapter 149:8-A
1. Activities Covered - Activities such as filling, dredging, culverting,
and skidding logs in great ponds, streams, swamps and any activity that
causes significant alteration of the terrain and impedes natural run-off
and creates an unnatural run-off are prohibited without a permit.
2. Criteria for Issuance - Jurisdiction will be asserted under this chap-
ter if the activity causes or th reatens to cause a violation of water qual ity
standards for the State.
3. Agency - The New Hampshire Water Supply and Pollution Control
Commission is charged with administering this chapter. They review ma-
jor projects or any that might prove to be controversial. I nformation on
applications for permits may be obtained by the:
New Hampshire Water Supply and Pollution Control Commission
Hazen Drive
P.O. Box 95
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 271-3503
10.05
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c. Chapter 4:40 a and b
This chapter requires a deed from the Governor and Cou'ncil before any
sand and gravel can be excavated from any navigable water or great
pond. It applies to activities undertaken below the mean high tide line,
which in New Hampshire is a limit of public ownership. Any such
activity under this chapter must be proven to be in the interest of land-
owners in the vicinity, to the Governor and Council. Further information
may be obtained from the:
New Hampshire Water Supply and Pollution Control Commission
Hazen Drive
P.O. Box 95
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 271-3503
10.06
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10.07
-------
HAMPSHIRE
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RHODE ISLAND WETLAND LAWS
A. Freshwater Wetlands
I. Definition
In Rhode Island, freshwater wetlands are defined as areas including bogs,
marshes, swamps, pond's and any land within fifty feet of the edge of any
bog, marsh, swamp or pond; rivers; river and stream flood plains and banks;
and areas subject to flooding or storm flowage. Marshes, bogs, and swamps
are determined by the 'presence of a predominance of wetland vegetation
(R.I.G.L. Section 2-1-18).
II. Permits
1. Activities Covered - Activities such as filling, draining, excavating, run-
ning a ditch or drain into, or otherwise altering the flow of water into or
from, a wetland require a permit.
2. Criteria for Issuance - The Director of the Department of Environ-
mental Management is authorized to consider the following values when
evaluating a permit for any project that will alter the biological or hydro-
logical character of a freshwater wetland: water quality, flood retention
capacity, groundwater recharge capacity, wildlife and fisheries habitat, rec-
reation, and the general public interest. The Director has the authority to
deny a permit if in his opinion approval would not be in the best public
interest.
3. Agency - Applications for permits and additional information concern-
ing freshwater wetlands protection can be obtained from the Department of
Environmental Management, Division of Planning and Development, 83 Park
Street, Providence, R I 02903, Telephone No.: (401) 277-2476.
B. Coastal Wetlands
I. Definition
Coastal wetlands are determined by the presence of a predominance of
plants adapted to living in soils saturated by salt water (R.I.G.L. Seciton
2-1-14).
II. Permits
1. Activities Covered .,...- Any development or alteration of coastal wetlands,
including but not limited to dredging; filling; excavating; depositing mud,
dirt, fill, refuse or effluent; and marine construction requires a permit.
11.01
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2. Criteria for Issuance - The Coastal Resources Management Council is
required to consider the impact of the project on the following values before
issuing a permit: water quality, erosion control, marine life and wildlife
habitat, flood water retention capacity, recreational and aesthetic assets,
and the gen~ral public interest.
The Council may permit disturbances to the biologic and/or hydrologic
processes within or affecting a coastal wetland only where it is demonstrated
by clear and convincing evidence that a bona fide benefit to the public wel-
fare will result and that no reasonable alternative exists.
3. Agency - Applications for permits and all other necessary information
may be obtained from the Coastal Resources Management Council, Room
508, Veterans Memorial Building, 83 Park Street, Providence, R I 02903,
Telephone (401) 277-2476.
11.02
-------
11.03
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VERMONT WETLAND LAWS
Vermont does not have a single wetland protection law at this time (September 1980).
Rather there are several statutes which can incorporate wetland alteration in their review
process. The following table is designed to explain how and when permits are required
and also to show the state review procedures when information on wetlands alteration
can become an important part of the environmental assessment.
Law and
Administrating
Agency
ACT 250
(DISTRICT ENVIRON-
MENTAL COMMISS-
IONS 5 Regional Of-
fices or through the En-
vironmental Board) (10
VSA Ch. 151)
STREAM AL TERA-
TION (protection Div.,
Agency of Environ-
mental Conservation
(10 VSA Ch. 41, sub-
chapter 2)
DEVELOPMENT OF
LANDS UNDER PUB-
LIC WATER (Vt. Water
Resources Board) (29
VSA Ch. 11)
FRAGI LE AREAS
(Planning Div., Agency
of Environmental Con-
servation)
Program
Vermont's land use and
development law. Pro-
jects are reviewed for
compatibility against
10 criteria.
Streams or rivers with a
drainage greater than
10 sq. miles require a
permit before any
change to the bed or
bank can be made.
Construction or depos-
iting dredge and fill ma-
terial under the mean
water levels of any lake
or pond requires a
permit.
A registry of areas with
unique material natural
features is established.
Alteration of any of
these areas by a federal-
ly funded project
requires an Impact
Statement.
Role of
Wetlands
Criteria # 8 relates to
necessary wildlife habi-
tat; floodplains and wa-
ter pollution are cover-
ed under criteria 1.
The role of riparian
wetlands is evaluated if
they are applicable be-
cause of loss of flood
protection or necessary
fish and wildlife habitat.
Shoreline wetland alter-
ation can be reviewed
as part of the procedure.
Several prominent wet-
lands are on the regis-
try.
Remarks
Wetland alteration can
be reviewed under these
two criteria.
Permits can be applied
for at Regional Of-
fices.
Project Reviews take
place in the A-95 pro-
cess.
Any person interested in further information should contact the Planning Division of
Environmental Conservation (828-3357) or the State Planning Office (828-3326).
(This information was prepared for EPA by the State Planning Office of Vermont).
12.01
-------
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FEDERAL WETLAND LAWS
In New England, protection for wetlands at the Federal level is found principally
in Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, as amehded (1977). Under Section 404, a
permit is required from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the placement of
dredged or fill material in waters of the United States. In addition, under Section 10
of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899, Corps authorization is required for the place-
ment of structures in navigable waterways.
I. Definitions
The term "waters of the United States" means:
(1) The territorial seas with respect to the discharge of fill material.
(2) Coastal and inland waters, lakes, rivers, and streams that are navigable
waters of the United States, including adjacent wetlands;
(3) Tributaries to navigable waters of the United States, including adjacent
wetlands (man-made non-tidal drainage and irrigation ditches excavated on dry
land are not considered waters of the United States under this definition).
(4) Interstate waters and their tributarieS, including adjacent wetlands; and;
(5) All other waters of the United States not identified in paragraphs (1) -
(4) above, such as isolated wetlands and lakes, intermittent streams, prairie pot-
holes, and other waters that are not part 'of a tributary system to interstate
waters or to navigable waters of the United States, the degradation or destruc-
tion of which could affect interstate commerce.
The landward limit of jurisdiction in tidal waters, in the absence of adjacent wet-
lands, shall be the high tide line and the landward limit of jurisdiction an all other
waters, in the absence of adjacent wetlands, shall be the ordinary high water mark.
In effect, the Corps of Engineers has jurisdiction over nearly every waterway and
wetland in New England.
Wetlands are areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a
frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances
do support, a prevalance of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil
conditions. Wetlands include swamps, bogs, marshes, and similar areas in fresh and
salt water.
II. Permits
Under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, the Corps of Engineers has three
categories of permits that it may issue for the placement of dredged or fill ma-
terial in waters of the United States.
13.01
-------
a. Nationwide Permits may be issued by the COE for discharges into minor
waterways and for certain types of activities in all waters of the United States.
If an area is defined as "headwaters" that is, if it has an average annual flow of
less than 5 cubic feet/second (approximately 2250 gals/min) or is an isolated
lake of less than 10 acres in size, no individual application for a discharge is re-
quired. However, in order for an activity to comply with the provisions of na-
tionwide authorization, it cannot (1) involve the discharge of tox ic or hazard-
ous materials; (2) adversely impact threatened or endangered species; (3) be in
a component of the wild and scenic rivers system; or (4) become a non-point
source of pollution. I n New England, projects in headwater areas and isolated
wetlands are permitted by nationwide authorization. Also, utility line crossings,
limited bank stabilization, minor road crossing fills, fill placed incidental to con-
struction of bridges across tidal waters, including cofferdams and temporary
construction and access fills and repair or replacement of previously authorized
fills are covered by nationwide permits. No written notification or authoriza-
tion is required for activities under nationwide permit. It is recommended that
the appropriate Corps office be contacted to see if a project qualifies for a
nationwide permit.
b. General Permits may be issued by the COE for certain types of activities
in specific, relatively small geographic areas within their jurisdiction. The activi-
ties must cause only minimal environmental harm, both individually and cumula-
tively. The permit must terminate within 5 years, and may be modified or re-
voked earlier should the adverse environmental impacts become greater. After a
general permit has been issued, individual activities falling within those cate-
gories will not require individual permit processing unless the Division/District
Engineer determines on a case-by-case basis, that individual review is necessary
to protect the public interest. Authorization for activities under general permit
consists of a "letter of authorization" from the appropriate Corps office. I n New
England, small pile and timber piers, minor soil conservation projects, small gov-
ernment agency roadway projects and work associated with powerline con-
struction adjacent to existing right of ways are covered by general permits.
Application must be made to the appropriate COE office for authorization
under general permit.
c.
Individual Permit
If a project does not qualify for a general or nationwide permit, then it is sub-
ject to individual permitting procedures under Section 404 of the Clean Water
Act. This requires that the party responsible for the project that will involve the
discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States apply to
the appropriate Corps of Engineers Office for a 404 permit. After a complete
application is received, the project will be sent out on Public Notice for 30-days
during which time interested members of the public as well as state and federal
agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Fish and Wild-
13.02
-------
life Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service, will comment on the pro-
posed project. After all comments are received, the Division or District En-
gineer will decide to issue or deny the permit. In some cases, the Division or
District Engineer will hold a public hearing prior to making a final decision.
It is important to note that the COE may not issue a 404 permit for a project
for which a state or local permit has been denied. It may issue a permit that is
more restrictive than the state or local authorization and would thus be the per-
mit to whose specifications the project must conform. Also, it should be remem-
bered that where applicable, a project must have a/l three authorizations - state,
local and federal - before it can proceed.
III. Criteria for Issuance
In judging whether or not to issue a permit under section 404 of the Clean Water
Act, the Corps must consider the following factors:
Conservation
Economics
Aesthetics
General Environmental
Concerns
Fish and Wildlife Values
Needs & Welfare of
the Peop Ie
Historic Values
Recreation
Land tJse
Water Supply
Water Quality
Navigation
Energy Needs
Safety
Food Production
Flood Damage Prevention
An essential part of the evaluation process is a finding of compliance with the jointly
developed EPA/COE 404(b) guidelines found at 30 C.F.R., Part 230 (1979). These
guidelines call for a careful consideration of alternatives that do not involve the dis-
charge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States. The guidelines
call for written documentation of the practicable alternatives considered by the
applicant in planning for the project. The Corps must find in writing that the project
will comply with the 404(b) guidelines which include a complete evaluation of alter-
natives to filling and an evaluation of impact on water quality, endangered species,
marine sanctuaries, aquatic ecosystem, fish and wildlife, recreational, aesthetic and
economic values. In fact, compliance with the 404(b) guidelines is so important,
Congress has granted EPA the authority, under Section 404(c) to withdraw a permit
if it finds, after public notice and hearing that a project will have a significant ad-
verse effect on municipal water supplies, shellfish beds and fishery areas, wildlife
or recreational areas.
13.03
-------
It is important to note also that the act of granting a 404 permit places the COE in
the potential position of taking a federal action significantly affecting the environ-
ment. As such, the COE is required to comply with the National Environmental
Policy Act and is required to prepare environmental assessments and in some cases
environmental impact statements on its permitting actions.
I V. Agency
In New England, there are two Corps of Engineers offices that administer the
the 404 Program. In most of New England, the New England Division in Wal-
tham, Massachusetts handles 404 permit matters. Therefore, activities in Maine,
New Hampshire, Massachusetts (except for the Hoosic River), Connecticut (ex-
cept for the Byram River), Rhode Island and the Connecticut River drainage
of Vermont are under the jurisdiction of the Corps in Waltham. The Lake
Champlain and Hudson River Drainage of Vermont and Massachusetts and the
Byram River in Connecticut are under the jurisdiction of the New York District
Corps.
Information and applications may be obtained from the appropriate Corps
offices listed below:
The Division Engineer
U.S. Army Engineer Division
424 Trapelo Road
Waltham, MA 02254
Attn: NEDOD-R
Telephone: 617-894-2400 X332
The District Engineer
U.S. Army Engineer District
26 Federal Plaza
New York, NY 10007
Attn: NANOP-E
Telephone: 212-264-3996
State 404 Programs
In December 1977, Congress made a major overhaul of the Federal Water Pollu-
tion Control Act, now known as the Clean Water Act. Section 404 of the Clean
Water Act has expanded the provisions of the 1972 Act. Perhaps the most impor-
tant of these new provisions is EPA's responsibility under Subsections 404(g) and
(h) for reviewing and approving State permit programs to operate in lieu of the
Corps permitting responsibilities in certain State waters which traditionally have
been considered non-navigable. The statutory language and the legislative history
of the 1977 Act indicate that EPA's role, both in approving and overseeing these
State programs, is to be similar to EPA's role in State National Pollution Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) programs established under Section 402 of the 1972
and 1977 Acts. However, the touchstone of the Section 404 permit process is com-
pliance with EPA's Section 404 (b) (1) Guidelines rather than the technology-based
effluent limitations which establish a basis for NPDES permit decisions.
The 1977 Act places strict time limits on EPA's review of State programs submitted
for approval. Failure of EPA to act within the time limit (120 days from receipt)
13.04
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will result in automatic approval of a State-submitted program. Even after a State
program becomes operable, EPA must review State permit applications and may ob-
ject to the issuance of a permit if the Administrator finds that issuance would be in
conflict with requirements of Section 404. If permit decisions by one State may
affect the waters of another State, the potentially affected State may submit its
recommendations to the permitting State, who must either accept them or explain
reasons for not doing so.
At the present time (February, 1981) there are no states in New England that have
been delegated 404 permitting authority. However, EPA is working with several
states to explore ways in which delegation may be achieved.
13.05
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13.06
-------
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Fassett, N.C. A Manual of Aquatic Plants. University of Wisconsin Press. Revision
Appendix by Ogden, Eugene C., 1957.
Fernald, Merritt Lyndon. Gray's Manual of Botany. Eighth Edition. American Book
Co., New York. 1950.
Gleason, Henry A. The New Britton and Brown Illustrated Flora of the North-
eastern United States and Adjacent Canada. 3 Vols. New York Botanical Garden.
1952.
Muenschner, W.C. Aquatic Plants of the United States. Comstock Publishing Co.,
I nc. Ithaca. 1944.
Niering, William A. The Life of the Marsh. McGraw-Hili Book Co., Inc. New York.
1966.
Peterson, Roger Tory and McKenny, Margaret. A Field Guicje to the Wildflowers.
Houghton Mifflin Co., Boston, MA. 1968.
Petrides, George A. A Field Guide to the Trees and Shrubs. Houghton Mifflin Co.
Boston, MA. 1958.
14.0Q
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COMMON NAMES
Alkali Grass
Atlantic White Cedar
Arrow Arum
Barrila Plant
Bayberry
Beach Grass
Black Alder
Black Grass
Black Gum
B lack Spruce
Black Willow
Blueberry, Highbush
Blue Flag
Bog Cotton
Bog Laurel
Bog Moss
Bog Myrtle
Bog Rosemary
Bog Spruce
Boneset
Buttonbush
Clammy Azalea
Cotton Grass
Common Reed
Cranberry, American
Duckweed
Dwarf Saltwort
Eastern Larch
Fragrant Water Lily
Glasswort
J oe-pye-weed
Labrador Tea
Lambkill
Leatherleaf
Marsh Elder
Marsh Fern
Marsh Heather
Marsh Rosemary
Northern White Cedar
Pale Laurel
Peat Moss
Pickerel Weed
Pitcher Plant
Poison Dogwood
INDEX BY COMMON NAMES
LATIN NAMES
Distichlis spicata
Chamaecyparis thyoides
Peltandra virginica
Salsola kali
Myrica pensylvanica
Ammophila breviligulata
/lex verticillata
Juncus gerardi
Nyssa sylvatica
Picea mariana
Salix nigra
Vaccinium corymbosum
Iris versicolor
Eriophorum spp.
Kalmia polifolia
Sphagnum spp.
Myrica gale
Andromeda glaucophy//a
Picea mariana
Eupatorium perfoliatum
Cephalanthus occidentalis
Rhododendron (Azalea) visco sum
Eriphorum spp.
Phragmites australis (communis)
Vaccinium macrocarpon
Lemna minor
Salicornia bigelovii
Larix laricina
Nymphaea odorata
Salicornia europaea
Eupatorium purpureum
Ledum groenlandicum
Kalmia angustifolia
Chamaedaphne calyculata
Iva frutescens
Dryopteris thelypteris
Limonium spp.
Limonium spp.
Thuja occidentalis
Kalmia po/ifo/ia
Sphagnum spp.
Pontederia cordata
Sarracenia purpurea
Toxicodendron (Rhus) vernis
15.00
PAGE
5.06
3.05
3.63
5.16
5.20
5.24
3.19
5.10
3.11
3.03
3.13
3.23
3.47
3.69
3.27
3.71
3.31
3.37
3.03
3.49
3.35
3.33
3.69
5.26
3.45
3.75
5.12
3.01
3.77
5.12
3.49
3.39
3.27
3.29
5.18
3.57
5.08
5.08
3.07
3.27
3.71
3.67
3.59
3.43
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Poison Elder
Poison Sumac
Prickly Glasswort
Purple Loosestrife
Red Maple
Reed Grass
Salt Marsh Cord grass
Salt Meadow Cordgrass
Saltwort
Salt Grass
Samphire
Sea Blite (low)
Sea Blite (high)
Sea Lavender
Seaside Goldenrod
Sensitive Fern
Sheep Laurel
Shrub Willow
Smartweed
Spicebush
Speckled Alder
Spike Grass
Spiked Loosestrife
Summersweet
Sundew
Swamp Azalea
Swamp Loosestrife
Swamp Maple
Swamp Wh ite Oak
Sweet Gale
Sweet Pepperbush
Tamarack
Tupelo
Water Arum
Water Willow
Wild Calla
Wild Allspice
Winterberry
Woody Glasswort
Toxicodendron (Rhus) vernix
Toxicodendron (Rhus) vernix
Salsola kali
Lythrum salicaria
Acer rub rum
Phragmites australis (communis)
Spartina alterniflora
Spartina patens
Salsola kali
Distichlis spicata
Salicornia europaea
Suaeda maritima
Suaeda linearis
Limonium spp.
Solidago sempervirens
Onoclea sensibilis .
Kalmia angustifolia
Salix spp.
Polygonum spp.
Lindera benzoin
Alnus rugosa
Distichlis spicata
Lythrum salicaria
Clethra alnifolia
Drosera spp.
Rhododendron (Azalea) visco sum
Decodon verticillatus
Acer rubrum
Quercus bicolor
Myrica gale
Clethra alnifo/ia
Larix laricina
Nyssa sylvatica
Calla palustris
Decodon verticillatus
Calla palustris
Lindera benzoin
/lex verticillata
Sa/icornia virginica
3.43
3.43
5.16
3.53
3.15
5.26
5.02
5.04
5.16
5.06
5.12
5.14
5.14
5.08
5.22
3.55
3.27
3.41
3.73
3.21
3.17-
5.06
3.53
3.25
3.61
3.33
3.51
3.15
3.09
3.31
3.25
3.01
3.11
3.65
3.51
3.65
3.21
3.19
5.12
15.01
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INDEX BY LATIN NAMES
LATIN NAMES COMMON NAMES PAGE
Acer rubrum Red Maple, Swamp Maple 3.15
Alnus rugosa Speckled Alder 3.17
Ammophila breviligulata Beach Grass 5.24
Andromeda glaucophylla Bog-Rosemary 3.37
Calla palustris Water Arum, Wild Calla 3.65
Cephalanthus occidentalis Buttonbush 3.35
Chamaedaphne calyculata Leatherleaf 3.29
Chamaecyparis thyoides Atlantic White Cedar 3.05
Clethra alnifolia Summersweet, Sweet Pepperbush 3.25
Decodon verticillatus Swamp Loosestrife, Water Willow 3.51
Distichlis spicata Alkali Grass, Salt Grass, Spike Grass 5.06
Drosera spp. Sundew 3.61
Dryopteris thelypteris Marsh Fern 3.57
Eriophorum spp. Cotton Grass, Bog Cotton 3.69
Eupatorium perfoliatum Boneset 3.49
Eupatorium purpureum Joe-Pye Weed 3.49
/lex verticillata Winterberry, Black Alder 3.19
Iva frutescens Marsh Elder 5.18
Iris versicolor Blue Flag 3.47
Juncus gerardi Black Grass 5.10
Kalmia angustifolia Lambkill, Sheep Laurel 3.27
Kalmia polifolia Bog Laurel 3.27
Larix laricina Eastern Larch, Tamarack 3.01
Ledum groenlandicum Labrador Tea 3.39
Lemna minor Duckweed 3.75
Limonium spp. Sea Lavender, Marsh Rosemary,
Marsh Heather 5.08
Lindera benzoin Spicebush, Wild Allspice 3.21
Lythrum salicaria Purple Loosestrife, Spiked
Loosestrife 3.53
Myrica gale Bog Myrtle, Sweet Gale 3.31
Myrica pensylvanica Bayberry 5.20
Nymphaea odorata Fragrant Water Lily 3.77
Nyssa sylvatica Black Gum, Tupelo 3.11
Onoclea sensibilis Sensitive Fern 3.55
Peltandra virginica Arrow Arum 3.63
Phragmites australis Reed Grass 5.26
(communis)
Picea mariana B lack Spruce, Bog Spruce 3.03
Polygonum spp. Smartweed 3.73
15.02
-------
Pontederia cordata
Quercus bicolor
Rhododendron (Azalea)
visco sum
Salicornia bigelovii
Salicornia europaea
Salicornia virginica
Salix spp.
Salix nigra
Salsola kali
Sarracenia purpurea
Solidago sempervirens
Spartina alternif/ora
Spartina cynosuroides
Spartina patens
Spartina pectinata
Sphagnum spp.
Suaeda linearis
Suaeda maritima
Thuja occidentalis
Toxicodendron (Rhus)
vernix
Vaccinium corymbosum
Vaccinium macrocarpon
Pickerel Weed
Swamp White Oak
Clammy Azalea, Swamp Azalea
3.67
3.09
3.33
Dwarf Saltwort
Samphire, Glasswort
Woody Glasswort
Shrub Willow
Black Willow
Barrila Plant, Prickly Glasswort,
Saltwort
Pitcher Plant
Seaside Goldenrod
Salt Marsh Cordgrass
Big Cordgrass
Salt Meadow Cordgrass
Fresh Water Cordgrass
Bog Moss, Peat Moss
High Sea Blite
Low Sea B lite
Northern White Cedar
Poison Dogwood, Poison Elder,
Poison Sumac
H ighbush Blueberry
American Cranberry
5.12
5.12
5.12
3.41
3.13
5.16
3.59
5.22
5.02
5.01
5.04
5.01
3.71
5.14
5.14
3.07
3.43
3.23
3.45
15.03
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-,
I
16.00
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