REPORT ON POLLUTION OF
THE MERRIMACK RIVER
AND CERTAIN TRIBUTARIES
part m- Stream Studies
Biological
.' MASS.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
FEDERAL WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
Merrimack River Project-Northeast Region
Lawrence, Massachusetts
August 1966
-------
REPORT ON
POLLUTION OF THE MERRIMACK RIVER
AND CERTAIN TRIBUTARIES
PART III - STREAM STUDIES - BIOLOGICAL
Warren H. Oldaker
U. S. Department of the Interior
Federal Water Pollution Contrql Administration
Northeast Region
Merrimack River Project
Lawrence, Massachusetts
August 1966
-------
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ... 1
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS 2
GRADIENT 2
RIVER BOTTOM 2
OBSERVATIONS FOR SPECIFIC REACHES
CLEAN WATER CONTROL 4
FEMIGEWASSET AND WINNIPESAUKEE RIVERS 6
REACH 1 (115.70 to 114.04) 7
REACH 2 (113.53 to 102.84) 9
REACH 3 (100.71 to 86.80) 10
REACH 4 (86.80 to 81.05) 12
REACH 5 (81.05 to 73.14) 14
REACH 6 (73.14 to 55.75) 15
REACH 7 (54.80 to 49.82) 18
REACH 8 (49.82 to 40.60) 19
REACH 9 (40.60 to 28.99) 20
REACH 10 (28.99 to 15.70) 21
REACH 11 (15.70 to 0.00) 24
BOTTOM ORGANISMS OF SOUHEGAN RIVER 27
PRODUCTIVITY OF THE MERRIMACK RIVER 30
MICROSCOPIC PLANKTON IN MERRIMACK RIVER 32
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS 34
REFERENCES 37
APPENDIX 39
- i -
-------
LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE NO. FOLLOWS PAGE NO.
1 Merrimack River Basin . Appendix A-15
2 Numbers and Kinds of Benthic Organisms -
1964-65, Merrimack River 4
3 Merrimack River Tributaries, Numbers and
Kinds of Benthic Organisms - 1964 ... 4
4 Distribution of Benthic Organisms in
Merrimack River 4
5 Benthic Organisms in Merrimack River
Estuary - 1964 26
6 Distribution of Benthic Organisms in
Souhegan River 28
7 Productivity of the Merrimack River -
August 1965 30
8 Standing Crop of Plankton - 1965, Merrimack
River at Lawrence 32
- ii -
-------
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE NO. PAGE NO.
1 Biological Sampling Stations and Reference Points
Merrimack River and Tributaries A-l
2 Number of Bottom Organisms Per Square Meter .... A-8
3 Kinds of Bottom Organisms in Ke'rrimack River and
Numbers Per Square Meter A-9
4 Souhegan River Miles A-ll
5 Kinds of Bottom Organisms in Souhegan River and
Numbers Per Square Meter A-12
6 Productivity of Merrimack River - August 1965 ... A-13
7 Most Abundant Genera of Algae in Merrimack River
April-October, 1965 A-14
8 Most Abundant Genera of Zooplankton in Merrimack
River A-15
- iii -
-------
INTRODUCTION
In February 1964, the U. S. Department of Health, Education,
and Welfare established the Merrimack River Project to carry out a study ,
in the Merrimack River Basin (Figure l). The basic objectives of the
project were twofold:
1. Evaluation of the adequacy of the pollution abatement measures
proposed for the Merrimack River within Massachusetts.
2. Development of adequate data on the water quality of the
Merrimack River and its tributaries. Waters in both New
Hampshire and Massachusetts were to be studied.
As part of the study of water quality, a detailed biological
survey of the Merrimack River, extending from Franklin, New Hampshire, to
the mouth at Newburyport, Massachusetts, was conducted during the summer
months of 1964 and 1965. Biological surveys were also carried out on
(1)
several tributaries, including the Souhegan River and the Nashua River .
The primary goal of these surveys was to evaluate the effects of municipal
and industrial wastes on the benthic fauna.
- 1 -
-------
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS
GRADIENT
Where the general nature of the stream community was con-
sidered, an estimate of the gradient or longitudinal slope was obtained
from topographic maps. This estimate did not assess "microstratifica-
tion."
The Merrimack River drops 263 feet in the 116 miles between
Franklin, New Hampshire, and the mouth at Newburyport, Massachusetts.
However, much of the decrease in elevation occurs at points where dams
have been constructed, resulting in a relatively gentle slope for most
of the length of the river. Gradient alone then was considered insigni-
ficant in determining the distribution of benthic fauna except below
dams or in the specific areas mentioned for each reach.
RIVER BOTTOM
The physical characteristics of the benthic sediments were
based on macroscopic examination during field biological sampling opera-
tions with the Fetersen dredge. The river bed may be conveniently
divided into six zones based on these observations. River miles are the
distances upstream of the U. S. Coast Guard light at Newburyport,
Massachusetts. A list of sampling stations and key points along the
Merrimack River and their associated river miles is presented in Table 1
in the Appendix.
1. River miles 116 to 90. This zone extends from Franklin
- 2 -
-------
to Concord, New Hampshire, "he benthic sediments were
primarily composed of rock, gravel and coarse sand.
2. River miles 90 to 65. This zone extends from Concord to
Goff's Falls below Manchester, New Hampshire, and has
sediments consisting mainly of fine sand and silty loam.
3. River miles 65 to 55. The benthic sediments from Goff !s
Falls to Nashua, New Hampshire, were primarily coarse
sand and gravel.
4. River miles 55 to 45. This zone extends from Nashua,
New Hampshire, to Tyngs Island, upstream of Lowell, Mass-
achusetts. The benthic sediments were primarily coarse
sand and silt with some sludge build-up.
5. River miles 45 to 2. The benthic sediments from Tyngs
Island to Newburyport, Massachusetts, were primarily
sludge and silt with some sand.
6. River miles 2 to 0. This portion of tl e estuary had
sediments composed of coarse sand with some silt and
sludge.
- 3 -
-------
OBSERVATIONS FOR SPECIFIC REACHES
Data obtained in the biological survey were grouped and dis-
cussed, as nearly as possible, for reaches having similar physical
characteristics. Eleven reaches between Franklin, New Hampshire, and
the mouth of the river were selected, plus an additional station on
each of the Winnipesaukee and Pemigewasset Rivers. Information for a
control station above any significant waste discharge is presented in
Table 2 to show the type of relatively clean-water associated bottom
fauna that may be expected in non-polluted waters*
The number of bottom organisms per square meter and the
various kinds of organisms found in the Herrimack River and significant
tributaries near their confluence with the Herrimack are presented in
Table 3. This information is illustrated in Figure 2 for the Merrimack
River and in Figure 3 for the tributaries. The biological condition
of the Herrimack River is shown in Figure 4.
CLEAN WATER CONTROL
An assemblage of bottom organisms commonly found in clean
water stream beds (mayflies, stoneflies, caddisflies, beetles and cer-
tain midgeflies) was difficult to find in the Herrimack River Basin.
No such area was found in the Herrimack River itself*
The principle streams and smaller tributaries were found to
- 4 -
-------
20 _
s
or
o
m
9 .
7 .
6 .
CM 5.
I
O
i
£
in
4 .
o 3
o
i
(D
2 .
or
UJ
I .
Poluticn Sensitive
Intermediate
Pollution Tolerant
. 20
TO 60
MERRIMACK fWVER 'MILES
NUMBERS AND KINDS OF BENTHIC ORGANISMS' 1964-65
MEWflMACK RIVER
. 10
. 5
- 16
''-, . 15
_ 9
_ e
_ 7
- 6
_ 4
_ 3
_ Z
FIGURE 2
-------
LEGEND'
Pollution Sensitive
Intermediate
Pollution Tolerant
04
>x
o
o
o
(O
z
<
o
tr
o
a:
UJ
m
223 2
KINDS OF ORGANISMS
MERRIMACK RIVER TRIBUTARIES
NUMBERS AND KINDS OF BENTHIC ORGANISMS-1964
FIGURE 3
-------
TOLERANT
SENSITIVE
107 106
RIVER MILE
101
100
TOLERANT
% SENSITIVE
\
90 69
RIVER MILE
DISTRIBUTION OF BENTHIC ORGANISMS
IN MERRIMACK RIVER
-------
TOLERAN
% INTERMEDIATE
X SENSITIVE
82
74 fa
RIVEN MILE
e's
% TOLERANT
X SENSITIVE
100ft
I
\
RIVER MILE
DISTRIBUTION OF BENTHIC ORGANISMS
IN MERRIMACK RIVER
-------
TOLERANT
% INTERMEDIATE
SENSITIVE
100
49
45
43
42
41 40
RIVER MILE
39
38
37
36
35
34
33
% TOLERANT
% INTERMEDIATE
SENSITIVE
|
RIVER MILE
DISTRIBUTION OF BENTHIC ORGANISMS
IN MERRIMACK RIVER
-------
X TOLERANT
X SENSITIVE _
00^
16 IS 14 13 12 H
DISTRIBUTION OF BENTHIC ORGANISMS
IN MERRIMACK RIVER
-------
be polluted not only in the general vicinity of the confluence with the
Merrimack River but also for many miles upstream. Ihinicipal sewage and
wastes from pulping and tanning operations were discharged to the Pemi-
gewasset River. Raw sewage from Franklin, New Hampshire, was discharged
to the Winnipesaukee River. The Contoocook River received raw sewage,
paperboard and tannery wastes. The Piscataquog River was mostly raw
sewage from Manchester, New Hampshire, at the time of sampling. The
Nashua River received the wastes from paper manufacturers and from raw
and treated sewages. Municipal wastes from the City of Lowell, Massachu-
setts, were discharged to the Concord River. Industrial and municipal
wastes were discharged to the Splcket and Shawsheen Rivers.
A relatively clean stream bed was found in the Whitman River
just upstream of the Route 2A bridge, west of Fitchburg, Massachusetts.
The Whitman River is a tributary to the North Nashua River.
Samples of bottom sediments taken from the Whitman River re-
vealed a well-rounded population, with nineteen different kinds of
bottom organisms. Organisms sensitive in their tolerance of pollution
included caddisflies, beetles, mayflies and stoneflies. Six kinds of
organisms intermediate in their tolerance of pollution were found. Kinds
of benthic fauna considered intermediate in their tolerance of pollution
are those commonly occurring in naturally enriched organic substrata.
These included beetles, mothflies, midgeflies and clams. Pollution
tolerant sludgeworms were also found. These data are presented in
Table 2.
- 5 -
-------
PEMIGEWASSET AND WINNIPESAUKEE RIVERS
The Merrimack River is formed by the confluence of the Pemi-
gewasset River, draining the northern mountainous region of New Hamp-
shire and the Winnipesaukee River which drains a large lake system in
the central portion of the state.
A biological sampling site was established in the Pemigewasset
River O.A.6 miles upstream of its confluence with the Winnipesaukee River.
Raw and partially treated sewage was discharged to the stream by most of
the towns bordering the banks of the Pemigewasset. These wastes suppor-
ted a lush growth of algae found covering the rocks and rubble in the
stream bed.
In an unpolluted stream, a rocky stream bed such as this one
with its coating of algae and organic debris, potentially provides abun-
dant cover and nourishment to a large and varied population of benthic
fauna. However, the actual numbers and types of fauna found here consis-
ted of only 254 individuals per square meter with just nine kinds of
bottom life, mostly herbivorous midge fly larvae. In comparison to a
relatively unpolluted stream, such as the Whitman River, a tributary to
the North Nashua River in Massachusetts, a total of 3,047 individuals
per square meter and nineteen different kinds of benthic fauna were
found in the bottom sediments (Table 2).
Especially noteworthy in these sediments from the Pemigewasset
River was the total absence of pollution sensitive insect predator
species, such as the mayflies.
The meager diversity and paucity of species found here indicates
- 6 -
-------
that the benthic community was affected by recent upstream organic
pollution.
A biological sampling site was located in the Winnipesaukee
River, 0.19 miles upstream of its confluence with the Pemigewasset
River. At this location the water was grey-green, very turbid and
sluggish. The stream bed was quite rocky. The bottom sediments con-
tained brown fibrous matter in abundance and sine lied like decomposing
sewage sludge. Raw sewage discharged at Franklin produced septic condi-
tions in the stream bed and overlying waters. Gases of anaerobic decomp-
osition bubbled up from the stream bed during dredging of the bottom
sediments. Insect predator species, such as stoneflies, which cannot
tolerate poisonous gases resulting from the breakdown of sewage^2', were
not found. Mayflies'3', stoneflies, caddisflies and certain bettles
cannot withstand the low oxygen levels that occur here. Other more toler-
ant species, including the snails, leeches and certain midgefly larvae,
were found in large numbers. A total of 2,033 individuals and seven
kinds of bottom fauna, mostly leeches, were found per square meter of
stream bed. This large number of a few tolerant species of bottom fauna,
gases of anaerobic decomposition rising from the bottom sediments, and
the abundance of raw sewage discharged to the stream from Franklin, New
Hampshire, indicate that these headwaters were grossly polluted.
- 7 -
-------
REACH I, FRANKLIN TO BOSCAWEN, (115.70 to 114.04)
At a biological sampling site, located 0.53 miles downstream
of the confluence, the stream bed was rocky and contained some sludge
in which there were many fine, grey fibers. These fibers blanketed the
benthic community and contributed to the reduction of the midgefly and
snail populations. Respiratory body surfaces and gill structures may
have been clogged by these fibers, resulting in suffocation. A total
of 1,46? individuals and eight different kinds of bottom fauna were found
per square meter of stream bed. Most of these were leeches, with a total
of 1,120 individuals and four kinds per square meter. This large leech
population, tolerant of the pollution of the river and the septic condi-
tions, preyed upon the snail population and further depleted its number.
Any of the kinds of benthic fauna such as the scuds, sowbugs, scavenger
beetles and certain herbivorous midgeflies found upstream which may have
been carried downstream to this site were either suffocated or unable to
withstand the septic conditions. Further evidence of gross pollution of
this area was the huge numbers of rotifers found clinging to the body
surfaces of the midgefly larvae and leeches. These rotifers (Conochiloides
sp.) feed on the bacteria and microcrustacea in waters where active bac-
terial decomposition of organic sludge is occurring.
The stream was rapid, shallow and passed over a stream bed
primarily composed of sand with some rock 1.66 miles downstream of the
confluence. This same stream bed under unpolluted conditions would be
suitable for the development of many different kinds of bottom fauna,
- 8 -
-------
especially certain mayflies, caddisflies and waterpennies. However, only
216 individuals and three kinds of benthie fauna were found per square
meter of this stream bed. Only certain midgeflies, a few leeches and
sludgeworms could tolerate the grossly polluted environment.
The Merrimack River from the confluence of the Pemigewasset and
Winnipesaukee Rivers to the end of this reach was grossly polluted and
represented a zone of active decomposition.
REACH 2, BOSCAWEN TO PENACOOK, (113.53 to 102.84)
Dense growths of aquatic plants (Potomogeton sp.) covered the
stream bed 2.17 miles downstream of the Winnipesaukee and Pemigewasset
Rivers. In relatively unpolluted streams, prolific numbers of herbi-
vores such as certain midgeflies and mayflies may be found feeding on
the tissues of these plants. Innumerable snails browse on the debris
near the roots, and predatory carnivores such as dragonflies and leeches
search for sludgeworms and insects burrowing into the substrate for food
or shelter.
However, such a community of bottom life did not exist at this
site. The assemblage of bottom life found was impoverished both in kind
and number. Only 615 individuals, mostly snails and sowbugs, and five
kinds of fauna were found per square meter of stream bed. Sewage dis-
charges taking place at upstream locations contributed an abundance of
fertilizer, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, causing a prodigeous growth
of aquatic plants. Neither midgefly larvae nor pollution sensitive in-
sect species such as mayflies were found. The sparse population and
- 9 -
-------
paucity of species further characterized this area as one of moderate
pollution.
Pollution sensitive caddisflies were found in the Merrimack
River 3.10 and 4.52 miles downstream of the confluence. Herbivorous
midgeflies were also found at these locations. Snails and snail-leeches
were plentiful. Death and decay of aquatic plants at upstream areas
apparently recycled additional fertilizer to this site, supplementing
that not used by the upstream plants and causing another abundant plant
growth (Potomogeton sp»). The Merrimack River showed signs of recovery
at these two locations.
At 5.10 miles upstream of the Sewalls Falls Dam, there were a
few clams (Pisidium sp.), leeches, sludgeworms and many snails. Midgefly
larvae and the pollution sensitive caddisflies were not found. Although
aquatic plants grew in abundance, providing food, cover and concealment
for the bottom life, only 970 individuals and six different kinds of
benthic fauna were found. The few kinds and numbers of bottom life and
the prolific aquatic plant growth indicated that moderate pollution still
existed in the stream.
The stream in this entire section may be characterized as one
of moderate pollution but showing signs of recovery. Most of this
river bed was covered with a dense plant growth nourished and sustained
by the fertilizer from sewage discharged upstream.
REACH 3, PENACOOK TO CONCORD, (100.71 to 86.80)
As a result of the raw discharge of the Brezner Tanning
Corporation, Boscawen, New Hampshire, massive organic pollution
- 10 -
-------
occurred in the Contoocook River one-half mile upstream of the confluence.
The stream was clogged with rafts of decomposing sludges four to six
inches in dimension, floating downstream to the Merrimack River. When the
stream bed was disturbed, large volumes of decomposition gases and grey
fibrous matter rose to the surface. The only benthic fauna found in the
bottom sediments were leeches. Even these numbered only ninety-four
individuals per square meter of stream bed. Other kinds of fauna which
may have been carried downstream from areas in the Contoocook faced suffo-
cation by clogging of respiratory surfaces with the fibrous matter dis-
charged from the tannery, as well as death by the septic environment.
The Merrimack River was still in a zone of moderate pollution
5.41 miles downstream of the Contoocook River, although most of the
organic sludges originating in the Contoocook had settled out behind
Sewalls Falls Dam. Only four kinds of benthic fauna and 127 individuals,
mostly sludgeworms, were found per square meter of stream bed. There were
also a few leeches, snails and midgefly larvae in these bottom sediments.
Pollution sensitive fauna were not found.
Farther downstream of Sewalls Falls Dam, the river recovered
somewhat from the organic pollution very evident in upstream locations.
Nine kinds of bottom fauna and 173 individuals were found per square
meter of stream bed. Sediments removed from this area contained a few
midgefly larvae, scuds, snails, leeches and sludgeworms. Even a few
pollution sensitive caddisflies and riffle beetles were found in these
sediments.
Five hundred feet downstream of the Poute 4 bridge in Concord,
- 11 -
-------
New Hampshire, floating sludge masses with a septic sewage odor occurred.
Bottom sediments dredged here were foul-smelling and were chiefly sewage
sludges discharged from Concord. Large numbers of benthie fauna tolerant
of the organic pollution were found in the sludge. Eight kinds of bottom
life and 1,356 individuals, mostly sludgeworms, were found per square
meter of stream bed. Benthic fauna found included clams, mussels,
leeches, midgefly larvae and snails. Although the stream bed was gravel
and potentially suitable for the case-making types of caddisflies found
upstream of Concord, these nymphs could not have tolerated the septic
environment.
In summary, this reach may best be described as one undergoing
active decomposition of the organic pollutants discharged to the Merrimack
River by the Contoocook River, moderate recovery shortly downstream of
Sewalls Falls Dam, followed by another zone of gross organic pollution
caused by the municipal wastes of Concord, New Hampshire.
REACH 4, CONCORD TO HOOKSETT, (86.80 to 81.05)
Dredging of the stream bed 0.20 and 0.50 miles, respectively,
downstream of Garvins Falls Dam produced only an impoverished assemblage
of bottom fauna, consisting of a few sludgeworms and midgefly larvae.
At these locations, the river was still In a zone of moderate pollution
even though most of the sewage sludges discharged at Concord had settled
behind the dam.
In the Soucook River, 0.04 mile upstream of its confluence with
the Merrimack River, and in the Merrimack River, one mile downstream of
- 12 -
-------
this confluence, only a few kinds and numbers of bottom fauna, mostly
sludgeworms, were found in the bottom sediments. These sediments also
contained snails, leeches and craneflies.
In a ponded section of the Merrimack River, 2.63 miles upstream
of the Hooksett Dam, the sediments were composed mostly of silt and
organic sludge. The small number of predatory leeches and the abundant
food supply favored the development of a large number of omnivorous
snails348 per square meter were found.
Bottom sediments in the Suncook River, 0.2 miles upstream of
its confluence with the Merrimack River, contained large numbers of
snails and leeches, as well as a few clams and sludgeworms. These kinds
of fauna flourish in quiescent, ponded areas enriched with dissolved
nutrients, especially where rooted aquatic plants are available to
supply food, cover and concealment. There was an extensive growth of
pondweeds (Potomogeton sp.) throughout this sampling area. This loca-
tion was in the backwater of the Merrimack River. Sewages supplied abun-
dant nutrients and fertilizing elements to nourish both the flora and the
fauna.
Bottom sediments dredged from the stream bed 0.19 miles upstream
of the Hooksett Dam were black and had a septic odor, and consisted
chiefly of sand, silt and organic sludges. A few midgefly larvae and
dragonfly nymphs were found in these sediments. Other insect species,
such as mayflies and certain caddisflies, could not tolerate the septic
condition of the sediments and overlying waters. Although predatory
leeches were found, they were few in number. Municipal discharges up-
- 13 -
-------
stream contributed organic enrichment favoring development of the many
snails and mussels found. A total of 352 snails and 120 mussels were
found per square meter of stream bed.
Impoverished assemblages of benthic fauna in some areas, large
numbers of a few species in other areas, and prolific growths of pond-
weeds in backwater sections indicate that gross to moderate pollution
existed in this section of the Merrimack River.
REACH 5, HOOKSETT TO MANCHESTER, (81.05 to 73.14)
This reach of the Merrimack River extends from the Hooksett
Dam to the Amoskeag Dam in Manchester, New Hampshire.
Bottom sediments one-half mile downstream of the Hooksett Dam
had a foul septic sewage odor. Anaerobic decomposition of the sewage,
blood and paunch manure discharged to this area rendered the stream bed
ineffectual as a habitat for most benthic fauna except for a few snails
and leeches.
Bottom fauna in sediments dredged 3-45 miles downstream of
the Hooksett Dam indicated that some improvement of the river had
taken place. These fauna included many midgefly larvae, snails, leeches
and even a few pollution sensitive caddisfly larvae. Eleven kinds of
bottom fauna and 1,231 individuals were found per square meter of stream
bed.
Conspicuous and favorable improvement of the benthic environ-
ment was found 4.26 miles downstream of the Hooksett Dam. Large numbers
of individuals (1,845 per square meter) and sixteen kinds of caddisfly
- 14 -
-------
larvae, midgefly larvae, cla'.is, snails, scuds, leeches and sludgeworms
were found. The great diversity of benthic fauna found was not equalled
or surpassed in any other location sampled in the Merrimack River.
Benthic sediments were black and had a septic odor near the
end of this reach, located 1.03 miles upstream of the Amoskeag Dam. Muni-
cipal waste dumped into the river from northern Manchester contributed to
the septic environment. Although certain species of caddisfly larvae can
tolerate low dissolved oxygen concentrations , the septic environment
would kill any of these larvae, such as those found upstream, which may
have been dispersed to this area. Other kinds of benthic fauna, such as
leeches and snails, apparently tolerated this type of environment as they
were found in large numbers. Clams, midgefly larvae and mussels were
also found, since organic food was abundant in these sediments.
Although there was some recovery evident in the central portion
of this reach, both the first and last portions were grossly polluted.
REACH 6, MANCHESTER TO NASHUA, (73.14 to 55.75)
Massive organic pollution occurred in the first two miles of
the Merrimack River downstream of the Amoskeag Dam. Sewage and industrial
wastes from the city of Manchester were discharged to this section. The
flow of the Piscataquog River consisted chiefly of the sewage from Man-
chester.
When the sediments were dredged from the stream bed 5.09 miles
downstream of the Amoskeag Dam, few benthic fauna were found. There
were only 453 individuals "per square meter of stream bed. Although ten
- 15 -
-------
different kinds of bottom life were present, most of these were certain
pollution tolerant midgefly larvae and leeches. A few mussels, snails
and sludgeworma were also found. These few individual representatives
of the several different kinds of benthic fauna found indicate that
population depletion may have occurred not only as a result of the septic
environment but also by suffocation brought about through settling of
organic wastes discharged upstream. Scouring of the river bed occurred
downstream of the Amoskeag Dam during peaking power operations at the
dam. Scouring in this area led to mixing and resuspension of sewage and
slaughterhouse and other industrial wastes, as well as settled organic
sludges. The prolific growth of pondweeds (Potomogeton sp.) observed
suggested the highly organic nature'^) Of the soil, as well as attesting
to the excessive fertilization of this stretch of the river. In addi-
tion, the body surfaces of the midgefly larvae and leeches taken from
the sediments were covered with rotifers. These rotifers (Conochiloides
sp.) were often found attached to benthic fauna found in areas of the
Merrimack River known to receive gross organic pollution with sewage.
Resuspension of sediments occurred in the vicinity of Goffs
Falls,,New Hampshire. Deposition and decomposition of these sediments
caused the sparse population of benthic fauna found at river mile 65.11.
Only two kinds of bottom fauna, certain pollution tolerant midgefly
larvae and sludgeworms, totaling 516 individuals, were found per square
meter of stream bed.
Organic pollutants discharged into the Souhegan and Merrimack
Rivers provide an ample food supply. However, 3.0? miles downstream of
- 16 -
-------
their confluence, only five kinds of benthic fauna and 269 individuals
were found per square meter of stream bed. This fauna consisted of
sludgeworms and a few midgefly larvae and leeches. The lethal action of
the New England Pole and Wood Treating Corporations' discharge of phenols
(2.32 miles upstream) caused the small size of the population.
The lethal action of phenol on fish has received considerable
study. Wuhrmann and Woker, in a review^°' of the literature on the toxi-
city of phenol to fish, quote a number of limiting concentrations for
various species ranging from 0.5 ppm to 20 ppm. The mussel fauna may
very well have been eradicated from this section of the river because of
their dependence in their life cycle on fish hosts. Concentrations of
phenols in the river muds at river mile 61.18 were found to equal 8,000
ppm. Since phenols are also known to cause an intense irritant action
on mucous membranes, mussels, clams and snails would suffer starvation
and respiratory failure.
Benthic fauna found in sediments farther downstream were
chiefly sludgeworms, with 7,092 worms found per square meter of stream
bed. Except for a few midgefly larvae and these sludgeworms, no other
form of benthic fauna was found in these sediments. Other forms of benthic
fauna such as clams, mussels and snails may have been eradicated by pheno-
lic substances or smothered by the large quantities of grease and oil
found in the bottom sediments.
Bottom sediments at river miles 58.10 and 57.91 also contained
only a few midgefly larvae and sludgeworms.
Some improvement in the stream bed took place 2.60 miles up-
- 17 -
-------
stream of the confluence of the Nashua and Merrimack Rivers. Four
different kinds of benthic fauna, including mussels, snails, sludge-
worms and even caddisfly larvae, were found.
Reach 6 suffered gross organic and chemical pollution. There
was some improvement at the end of the reach, however.
REACH 7, NASHUA TO NEW HAMPSHIRE-MASSACHUSETTS STATE LINE, (54.80 to 49.82)
Dredgings from the stream bed in the Nashua River were black
and had a septic sewage odor. Discharges from upstream paper manufac-
turing operations and municipal sewage from Nashua, New Hampshire, contri-
buted to the condition. Only two kinds of benthic fauna were found in
these sedimentsmidgefly larvae and sludgewormsand just sixty-four
individuals per square meter of stream bed. Other benthic fauna such as
snails and clams found upstream in the Nashua were not found here. These
fauna either could not tolerate the septic environment or were smothered
by the settling solids.
Upstream in the Nashua River Canal, the bottom sediments con-
sisted chiefly of paper manufacturing sludges and contained a huge popula-
tion of midgefly larvae, 6,856 larvae per square meter, and sludgeworms,
1,294 worms per square meter. The abundance of food and lack of predatory
fauna favored development of pollution tolerant life.
No benthic fauna were found in sediments from the Merrimack
River 0.55 miles downstream of the confluence with the Nashua. During
dredging of the stream bed, nauseous gases of anaerobic decomposition
bubbled to the surface. This portion of the Merrimack River WAS in a
- 18 -
-------
state of active decomposition. Benthic fauna dispersed to this area
from upstream locations would face death by exposure to this septic en-
vironment or be smothered by fibrous matter found in abundance in these
sediments.
Few benthie fauna except certain midgefly larvae and sludge-
worms were found in bottom sediments dredged at three additional down-
stream locations at river miles 52.81, 52.72 and 52.53. In addition to
the limiting or lethal septic environment in these areas, survival of
these few benthic fauna was further endangered by oil and grease, especi-
ally noticeable in the sediments taken at river mile 52.72. Oil and
grease coat the respiratory surfaces of bottom fauna, causing death by
suffocation. Just as in other upstream locations receiving gross organic
pollution, sediments dredged at river mile 52.53 contained certain midge-
fly larvae completely covered with rotifers. Whatever oxygen resource
was still available to the larvae in this septic environment became even
less available because of the decreased respiratory surface area used
as points of attachment by these rotifers.
Throughout most of this reach, the Merrimack River was in a
state of active decomposition. With the exception of a few midgefly
larvae and sludgeworms, no other kinds of benthic fauna were found in
sediments from the river bed.
REACH 8, NEW HAMPSHIRE-MASSACHUSETTS STATE LINE TO LOWELL, (49.82 to 40.60)
Septic conditions were especially noticeable during dredging
ol the bottom at river miles 48.37, 44.69 and 43.46, just downstream
of the New Hampshire-Massachusetts state line. Nauseous gases
- 19 -
-------
bubbled out of the river bed and the sediments were black and odorous.
Grease and oil were found in sediments at river mile 46.82. Fine grey
fibers were found in dredgings from the river bottom at river miles 43.46
and 42.52, downstream of two wool-scouring plants.
Only one to four kinds of benthic fauna were found in this
reach of the river. Sludgeworms ranged from 24-2,104 per square meter,
midgefly larvae 0-8 per square meter, mussels 0-16 per square meter and
snails 0-16 per square meter. No other benthic fauna were found in
sediments dredged from the river bed. Septic conditions suppressed or
killed most benthic fauna. Others faced death by suffocation brought
about by clogging of respiratory surfaces with solids or by coating of
these surfaces with grease and oil.
This reach showed very little improvement, continuing through-
out most of its length in a zone of active decomposition.
REACH 9, LOWELL TO LAWRENCE, (40.60 to 28.99)
Reach 9 extends from the Pawtucketville Dam at Lowell, Massa-
chusetts, to the Essex Dam at Lawrence. Except for a rapids area extend-
ing about three miles downstream of the Pawtucketville Dam, the remaining
portion of this reach is in quiet water as a result of the backwater of
the Essex Dam. The reach was found to be grossly polluted by the dis-
charge of organic wastes.
Decomposition of bottom sediments was especially remarkable at
two locations, river miles 36.36 and 36.30, downstream of the confluence
of. the Concord and Merrimack Rivers. Gat-lifted fecal matter and putrid
- 20 -
-------
sludge* floated about the water surface. During dredging of the stream
bed, decomposition gases bubbled to the surface.
An extensive and varied assemblage of benthic fauna such as
certain burrowing mayflies, caddisflies, mussels and clams would under
unpolluted conditions occupy a stream bed of this type. However, only
sludgeworms (8-299 per square meter), midgefly larvae (0-347 per square
meter) and, in one location, leeches (42 per square meter) were found.
These few kinds and numbers were the only benthic fauna surviving in
the polluted sediments. The septic sludge and overlying water markedly
reduced available oxygen. A further hazard to survival of the midgefly
larvae were the numerous rotifers found attached to their body surfaces,
thereby reducing the available respiratory surface area. These rotifers
were especially noticeable on the fauna found in the sediments at river
miles 36.36, 35.11 and 31.92.
As in the reach upstream, this reach was in a zone of active
decomposition throughout most of its length. Only a few pollution
tolerant leeches, midgefly larvae and sludgeworms were found.
REACH 10, LAWRENCE TO HAVERHILL, (28.99 to 15.70)
The reach is broken down into three sections. Section 1 is
that portion of the river between the cities of Lawrence and Haverhill.
Section 2 is that portion through Haverhill and extending downstream
to Buoy 61. Section 3 extends from Buoy 61 to the Groveland Bridge.
Gases of anaerobic decomposition bubbled up from the stream bed.
- 21 -
-------
Gas-lifted fecal matter and islands of decomposing organic filth floated
throughout the sampling area. Just prior to dredging, samples of water
taken within a foot overlying the stream bed were found to be acid
(pH 6.3-6.9) with concentrations of dissolved oxygen ranging from 1.2 to
4.1 mg/1 (T = 20°C). Stream bed sediments were primarily organic and
had a strong sewage odor.
The only benthic fauna found in section 1 were midgefly larvae
and sludgeworms, except for a few leeches found at river mile 28.50. No
benthic fauna were found at river mile 25.35. In general, snails are
uncommon in streams whose surface waters are more acid than pH 6.2 and
require rather high concentrations of dissolved oxygen'''. The acid
waters and septic conditions prevailing in this section would limit, if
not prevent, the development of snail populations. Also, leeches which
do not appear to be able to tolerate gases of anaerobic decomposition
at low oxygen tensions''' were not found, nor could they survive in
this section of the river where decomposition gases as well as low con-
centrations of dissolved oxygen occurred. An abundance of dissolved
oxygen also appears to be an environmental necessity'?) to scuds. Scuds
were not found in this section of the river. Most of the midgefly lar-
vae and all of the sludgeworms contained red blood pigments which enabled
them to survive the low dissolved oxygen levels common to this section.
The second section resembled the first in that decomposition
gases rapidly rose to the river surface during dredging. Gas-lifted
islands of fecal matter and decomposing sludge up to four inches in
dimension were abundant. Sludge formed accumulations up to six inches
- 22 -
-------
deep along the river banks at river mile 17.30 downstream of Haverhill.
Dissolved oxygen concentrations in this section ranged from 1 to 2.5
mg/1 (T = 20°C) in water immediately above the stream bed. The pH ranged
from 6.4 to 6.?. Bottom sediments in this section were mostly organic,
black and had the stench of septic sewage.
There were a few leeches, snails and even a few marine clams
in the sediments dredged at river mile 19.62. Midge fly larvae and
sludgeworms were the predominant benthic fauna found in this section.
As had been observed in other areas of the Kerrimack which were grossly
polluted with organic matter, certain rotifers were attached in great
numbers to the body surfaces, especially the gills, of the midgefly
larvae, thereby reducing the respiratory surface area and making it
even more difficult for these larvae to survive.
This section, subjected to tidal action, is a mixohaline region.
Very few species can survive in this region; therefore, one would not
expect to find either very many or much diversity. However, several kinds
of marine fauna can adapt to salinities less than those found in the sea,
such as certain sowbugs (Cvathura carinata) and scuds (Gammarus sp.)
Neither of these marine forms were found here, but they did appear at
the next downstream stations. Although certain fresh-water animals will
tolerate variations in salinity, such as sludgeworms and certain midgefly
larvae, most find tidal waters uninhabitable because the organisms do not
contain structures or mechanisms for maintaining a proper salt balance.
It is important to note that at river miles 19.35 and 17.75, no benthic
fauna of either fresh or marine origin were found. Without doubt, gross
- 23 -
-------
organic pollution in this section was responsible for the lack of either
fresh or marine benthic fauna found here.
In section 3, bottom sediments were composed mostly of sand
and rock with some organic sludge. Septic conditions existed at river
mile 16.51 where the dissolved oxygen level a foot over the stream bed
was 1.9 mg/1 (T = 21°C). Some gas bubbled to the surface in this same
area during dredging. Leeches, clams, midgefly larvae, scuds and sludge-
worms were found. Rotifers, abundant on the body surfaces of the midge-
fly larvae and leeches, were nourished by the bacteria and microcrustacea
supplied through decomposition of the bottom sediments. Low oxygen
levels and septic conditions are known to favor certain kinds of benthic
fauna, such as sludgeworms, resulting in great numbers of them. The
sludgeworm population at river mile 15.68 was very large, with 14,972
worms per square meter. The stream bed did support greater numbers of
both marine and fresh water fauna, but these were forms of bottom life
that could tolerate the gross organic pollution in this section.
REACH 11, HAVERHILL TO ATLANTIC OCEAN, (15.70 to 0.00)
This reach is divided into two sections. Section 1 extends
from the Grove land Bridge to the Route 1 Bridge, river mile 2.91.
Section 2 extends from the Route 1 Bridge to the ocean.
Throughout the first section, the sediments were composed of
silt and sand. Dissolved oxygen concentrations ranged from 2.1 to 3.6
mg/1 in the water one foot above the stream bed. For the first 8.42
- 24 -
-------
miles of this section the temperature one foot above the stream bed was
20°C. The remaining portion of 4.37 miles reflected tidal excursion up-
stream with temperatures dropping to 17.5°C at river mile 4.10. Through-
out this section, decomposition gases bubbled to the surface during
dredging.
Benthic fauna of freshwater origin in the sediments from Sec-
tion 1 consisted of midgefly larvae and sludgeworms. Marine fauna in
these sediments included scuds, sowbugs and marine worms. Downstream of
river mile 7.80, freshwater populations of midgefly larvae and sludge-
worms markedly declined in number. Neither group existed at the end of
the section.
Several factors led to the demise of the freshwater fauna
and the absence of saltwater fauna. Although organic matter of sewage
origin was especially noticeable in the silty bottom sediments upstream
of river mile 7.80, bottom sediments at downstream locations were com-
posed of relatively clean sand with enough organic matter to support
anaerobic bacterial decomposition. Availability of food for life sup-
port* ' apparently was not a limiting factor in this area. The unstable
stream bed brought about by tidal action was the more probable cause for
the decline in fresh and saltwater benthic fauna. Only a small number
of marine scuds and sowbugs penetrated the polluted waters in this
section.
Section 2 of this reach encompasses the estuarine portion of
the Merrimack River. The partially treated sewage from the towns of
Salisbury and Newburyport, as well as^ wastes carried to this area by the
- 25 -
-------
Merrimack River, nourish an abundant benthic fauna and flora. At river
mile 1.73> about one-half mile downstream of the Newburyport sewage out-
fall, marine worms numbered 6,399 per square meter. Even freshwater
sludgeworms in sediments dredged at this location numbered 2,459 per
square meter. Large numbers of clams, mussels, scuds and sowbugs were
also found in the sediments. Sea lettuce flourished in the estuary,
especially just west of Woodbridge Island and Black Rock Creek. A sum-
mary of total tolerant and total organisms found in the estuary is shown
in Figure 5.-
-26 -
-------
LEGEND
5627
7062,
Total Toltrant Organisms/
Black Rock
Creek
Totol Organisms/
*
Inter tidal Area
ATLANTIC
OCEAN
Newburyport
The Basin
BENTHIC ORGANISMS IN MERRIMACK RIVER ESTUARY- 1964
-------
BOTTOM ORGANISMS OF SOUHEGAN RIVER
In late May and early June, 1965, a biological survey was
carried out on the lower Souhegan River, a tributary which discharges
into the Merrimack River 12.5 miles upstream of the New Hampshire-
Massachusetts state line. The section studied extended from just up-
stream of Wilton, New Hampshire, to the mouth of the Souhegan. A list
of the sampling stations and reference points is presented in Table 4-
Three locations were sampled upstream of Wiltontwo in the
Souhegan River and one in Stony Brook. The only known source of pollu-
tion occurs at Greenville, New Hampshire, about 8.4 miles upstream of
Wilton, where raw sewage from approximately 500 persons is discharged.
In each of these three locations, pollution sensitive organisms were
found to be predominant both in total numbers and in their diversity of
species (Table 5 and Figure 6). The river at mile 21.46 was cool
(T = 15 C) and shallow, with a rocky bed and fast current. The water
was soft (Hardness = 12 mg/1 as CaCO^), low in alkalinity (5 mg/1 as
CaCO-j) and well oxygenated (Dissolved Oxygen = 10.8 mg/1).
The Souhegan River between Wilton and Milford, New Hampshire,
deteriorated considerably, with pollution tolerant leeches and sludge-
worms making up most of the benthic fauna found. Textile operations
and raw sewage from Wilton accounted for the polluted condition in the
river. The dissolved oxygen dropped to 7.1 mg/1 but there was little
change in hardness, alkalinity and temperature from upstream. Through-
out most of this reach, the stream bed was rocky and the current moderate,
- 27 -
-------
Moderately polluted conditions continued to exist in the stream
for several miles downstream of Milford, which discharges the raw sewage
of approximately 3,000 persons. Gases from decomposition of sludge de-
posits were noted at river mile 8.42. The stream meandered throughout
this section and had a moderate current and shallow depth. The stream
bed was mostly sandy with some gravel and loam. Dissolved oxygen contin-
ued high.
By the time the Souhegan River reached the Amherst-Merrimack
town line, the river showed signs of recovery from a biological stand-
point. Bottom organisms generally found in moderately polluted environ-
ments, such as certain midgeflies and snails, assumed dominance both in
species diversity and in percentage of total organisms. There was a
marked decline in the percentage of pollution tolerant individuals com-
pared to the section Just downstream of Milford (Figure 6). The stream
bed was sandy with some sandy loam. The shallow depth and moderate cur-
rent continued. Dissolved oxygen increased from 7.3 mg/L at river mile
6.51 to 9.0 mg/1 at river mile 3.12 at a temperature of 15°C.
Sampling of the river in a riffle area just upstream of Wild-
cat Falls, river mile 1.15, showed the continued dominance of benthic
fauna generally found in moderately polluted streams. However, there
was an increase in the proportion of tolerant forms. Similar conditions
were found in the sample taken just downstream of the Everett Turnpike
and upstream of the waste discharges of Merrimack, New Hampshire.
Bottom organisms that were sensitive to pollution were found
at all sampling sites except at river mile 14*49 at Milford. Where
- 28 -
-------
WILTON
MILFORD
% TOLERANT
% INTERMEDIATE/^
% SENSITIVE/7
100 -
-------
these organisms were found, those occurring most frequently were the
caddisflies, mayflies and riffle beetles.
The greatest numbers of tolerant organisms were found between
river miles 18.1? and 8.42, forty-seven per cent of the length of stream
studied. Sludge worms were the tolerant kind most frequently found.
From a biological standpoint, the river was moderately polluted
from Wilton, New Hampshire, to the confluence with the Merrimack River,
a distance of twenty miles,
- 29 -
-------
PRODUCTIVITY OF THE MERRIMACK RIVER
A productivity study of short duration of the Merrimack River
between Manchester, New Hampshire and Lowell, Massachusetts, was initia-
ted in August 1965. Three sampling stations were selected at river
miles 65.11, 48.76 and 43.47- The data were plotted downstream of the
Queen City Bridge in Manchester, New Hampshire, (river mile 71.G?) to
indicate the productivity of the stream after passing through the major
cities of Manchester and Nashua in New Hampshire.
Algae are reported^) '*,.to D6 adversely affected in culture..
media when the concentration of inorganic nitrogen falls below 0.2 mg/L
and that of phosphorus below 0.05 mg/1. Sawyer reported in the Madison
Lakes survey'^ *' that nuisance algae conditions were expected when in-
organic phosphorus was found in excess of 0.01 mg/1 and an inorganic
nitrogen level of 0.30 mg/1* Recently, Maloney'^' reported that algal
growth was exponential in concentrations of detergent phosphorus above
0.1 mg/1 as phosphorus. Reference to Table 6 indicates that the nitrogen
and phosphorus levels found in the Merrimack River were obviously not
limiting to potentially abundant growths of phytoplankton at any of
the stations.
As indicated in Figure 7, photosynthetic oxygen production,
concentration of chlorophyll a, and the total number of phytoplankton
increased downstream of the Queen City Bridge. The inflow of nutrient
phosphorus and nitrogen was potentially capable of supporting an abundant
- 30 -
-------
8
2
-g
s E
2? *>
C o
It
ro
E
o
zi
o
100
90
80
6
I
4
2
0
30
20
10
800
600
400
200
PRODUCTIVITY OF THE
MERRIMACK RIVER-AUGUST 1965
(Data taken from I- foot depth)
FLOW
OXYGE
CHLOROPHYLL a
ALGAE
K>
J5.
25-
Miles Downstream of Queen City Bridge, Manchester, N.H.
FIGURE 7
-------
growth of phytoplankton in any of the three reaches. The backwater
effect of the dam at Lowell, Massachusetts, caused an environment in
the two downstream stations more favorable to the growth of algae.
Chlorophyll a was measured in accordance with the procedure outlined by
( »0\
Creitz & Richards^ J' and proved to be a less time-consuming method for
the estimation of standing crop than that of the identification and
enumeration of algae. Photosynthetic oxygen production was measured by
the light and dark bottle technique,
In this study, the use of several toolsphotosynthetic oxygen
production, measurement of chlorophyll a, enumeration of algaeappear
necessary to fully interpret productivity especially where nutrient
levels were sufficient to cause an abundant growth in any of the stations
studied. These tools adequately reflected a relative increase in produc-
tivity in the Merrimack River downstream of the Queen City Bridge to the
City of Lowell, Massachusetts.
- 31 -
-------
MICROSCOPIC HJLHKTON IN MERRIMACK RIVER
The surface water of the Merrimack River at the entrance to
the Essex Canal in Lawrence was monitored periodically for phyto»- and
zooplankton during April through October 1965. Samples were hand dipped
and then brought to the laboratory where the microscopic plankton were
concentrated by the Sedgewick-Rafter method. The algae were identified
as to genera and the concentration reported in areal standard units per
ml of the sample (ASU/ml). The data are shown in Figure 8 and Tables
7 and 8.
The diatoms gradually increased from a low average of 348
ASU/ml in April to a maximum of 931 ASU/ml in July. In order of decrea-
sing occurrence, those genera of diatoms found were Melosira, Synedra,
Asterionella, Navicula and Fragilaria. Except for Asterionella, all of
the other four most abundant diatoms were listed by Palmer^ ' as most
tolerant of pollution*
The green algae rapidly increased from a low average of twenty
ASU/ml in April to a maximum of 3,285 ASU/ml in July, after which the
average count fell to 1,289 ASU/ml in October. Again, of the five most
abundant genera found, four of the five genera were included'1'4-' among
the fifty-two most tolerant genera of algae. These were, in order of
decreasing occurrences Scenedesmus, Eudorina, Pediastrum and Fandorina.
The blue-green algae were not found to any significant extent
except in July, when the average count was 1,210 ASU/ml. Only species
of Coelosphaerium, Anabaena, Oscillatoria and Polycystis were found.
- 32 -
-------
STANDING CROP OF PLANKTON - 1965
MERRIMACK RIVER AT LAWRENCE
o *°
V 30
S 20
£ 1°
5 0
£
to
o
< 6000
o
z
CO
Ul
qc 4000
O
o
0 2000
Q.
O*
5987
728
1736
Wjv:v
13
APRIL
MAY
JUNE
JULY
Blue-Greens
Flagellates
Green Algae
Diatoms
1464
I
1832
SEPT.
OCT.
-------
Of these four genera, Oscillatoria and Anabaena are most tolerant of,
pollution. Blue-greens were not found in September and October.
The flagellated protozoa found most frequently were Chlsmydo-
monas, Dinobryon, Syhura, Mallomonas and Euglena. Both Euglena and
Chlamydomonas are considered the genera most tolerant of pollution.
Early summer showed a marked rise of the zooplankton. Codo-
nella and Vorticella species were the most common ciliates found. The
genera of rotifers which were found most frequently were Anuraea, Syn-
chaeta, Polyarthra and Triarthra. Daphnia, Cyclops and Bosnri.na.were
the most common Crustacea found. Both the rotifers and Crustacea ap-
peared to be more abundant during the summer and autumn than in the
spring period.
-33 -
-------
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
The biological conditions, with few exceptions, show that the
Merrimack River is grossly polluted from Franklin, New Hampshire, to its
mouth at Newburyport, Massachusetts.
Benthic organisms sensitive to pollution were absent from the
samples taken in the lower fifty-seven miles of the Merrimack River.
In only four extremely short portions of the river, consisting of less
than fifteen miles out of the total river mileage of 116, did the river
recover enough from its despoiled condition to permit a small number of
sensitive organisms to exist before additional wastes reduced the quality
of the river. These four areas were: four miles below the confluence of
the Pemigewasset and Winnipesaukee Rivers) above Concord, New Hampshire,
in the reservoir behind Amoskeag Dam) and just above the Nashua River
confluence.
Organisms intermediate in their response to pollution were
predominant from Franklin, New Hampshire, to the confluence of the
Contoocook River. Additional waste discharges between the Contoocook
River and the Suncook River resulted in an increase in the proportion
of pollution tolerant forms. Between Hooksett and Manchester, New
Hampehire, the majority of bottom organisms again were of the types
intermediate in their resistance to pollution. From Manchester to
Amesbury, Massachusetts, a distance of sixty-six miles, pollution tol-
erant organisms constituted the entire benthic population or the majority
of the forms found.
- 34 -
-------
The i-umber of species found in the Merrimack River was far
below the levels desired in a benthic community. Pollution sensitive
benthic fauna, such as mayflies, stoneflies and certain beetles, were
not found in the river from Manchester, New Hampshire, to the Atlantic
Ocean.
A number of tributaries were sampled near their confluences
with the Merrimack River. Results show that all of the sampled areas
were polluted. In most cases, wastes were discharged into the lower
part of the tributary and affected the bottom fauna.
A biological survey was carried out on the lower Souhegan
River, a tributary which discharges into the Merrimack River 12.5 miles
upstream of the New Hampshire-Massachusetts state line. Between Wilton
and Milford, New Hampshire, the Souhegan deteriorated considerably,
with pollution tolerant leeches and sludgeworms making up most of the
benthic fauna. This polluted condition of the river continued for
several miles downstream of Milford. From a biological standpoint, the
river was moderately polluted from Wilton, New Hampshire, to its conflu-
ence with the Merrimack River, a distance of twenty miles.
A productivity study of the Merrimack River was conducted
between Manchester, New Hampshire, and Lowell, Massachusetts, that
reflected a relative increase in productivity as the river flowed down-
stream.
The surface water of the Merrimack River at the entrance to
the Essex Canal*in Lawrence was monitored periodically for phyto- and
- 35 -
-------
cooplankton from April through October 1965. Most of th* kinds of
phytoplankton found v«r« tolerant of pollution.
- 36 -
-------
REFERENCES
1. Report on Pollution of the Meirimack River and Certain Tribu-
taries - Part V - Nashua River, U. S. Department of the Inter-
ior, Merrimack River Project, Lawrence, Massachusetts, August
1966.
2. Gaufin, A. R., Environmental Requirements of Plecoptera,
Third Seminar, 1962 - Biological Problems in Water Pollution,
USDHEW,. Cincinnati, Ohio.
3. Ibid., Leonard, J. W., Environmental Requirements of Ephemop-
tera.
4. Ibid., Roback, S. S., Environmental Requirements of Trichop-
tera.
5. Macan, T. T., Freshwater Ecology, John Wiley and Sons, Inc.,
pp. 213 and 255, 1964-
6. Jones, J. R. E., Fish and River Pollution, Butterworths,
London, pp. 144-151, 1964.
7. Pennak, Robert W., Fresh Water Invertebrates of the United
States, Ronald Press Company, New York, 1953.
8. Brinkhurst, R. 0., The Biology of the Tubificidea with Special
Reference to Pollution, Third Seminar 1962 - Biological Prob-
lems in Water Pollution, USDHEW, Cincinnati, Ohio.
- 37 -
-------
9. Chu, S. P., The Influence of the Mineral Composition of the
Medium on the Growth of Planktonic Algae, Part I. Methods
and Culture Media, Journal of Ecology, Vol. 30, No. 2, pp.
284-325, 1942.
10. Ibid., Part 11. The Influence of the Concentration of Inor-
ganic Nitrogen and Phosphate Phosphorus, Vol. 31, pp. 109-148,
1943.
11. Sawyer, C. N., Some New Aspects of Phosphates in Relation to
Lake Fertilisation, Sewage and Industrial Wastes, Vol. 24,
No. 6, pp. 768-776, 1952.
12. Maloney, T. £., Detergent Phosphorus Effect on Algae, Journal
Water Pollution Control Federation, Vol. 38, No. 1, pp. 38*45,
January 1966.
13. Creiti, 0. I., and Richards, F. A., The Estimation and Charac-
terization of Plankton Populations by.PifwntJ Analysis. III.
. A Note on the Use of Millipore Membrane Filters in the Estima-
tion of Plankton Pigments, Journal of Marine Research, Vol. 14,
No. 3, PP. 211-216, 1965.
14. Palmer, C. N., The Effect of Pollution on Rive? Algae, New
York Academy of Sciences, Vol. 108, Article 2, pp. 389-395,
June 29, 1963*
-38-
-------
APPENDIX
- 39 -
-------
TABLE 1
BIOLOGICAL SAMPLING STATIONS AND REFERENCE POINTS
MERRIMACK RIVER AND TRIBUTARIES
STATION RIVER MILE DESCRIPTION
1 115.70-0.U6 Pemigewasset River, k ft. depth off east bank-
1000 ft. upstream of large rock near confluence
with Winnepesaukee River.
2 115.70-0.19 Winnepesaukee River, 3 ft. depth off south bank-
1000 ft. upstream of big rock near confluence
with Pemigewasset River.
115.70 Confluence of Pemigewasset and Winnepesaukee Rivers.
3 115.53 Merrimack River, 3 ft. depth off east bank- 1000 ft.
downstream of confluence of Pemigewasset and
Winnepesaukee Rivers.
k Ilk.Ok 1 ft. depth off west bank downstream of Franklin, N.H.
5 113.53 k ft. depth in midstream channel at Daniel Webster
Island.
6 112.60 3 ft. depth off west bank 1 mile downstream of
Daniel Webster Island.
7 111.18 k ft. depth off west bank under high tension wires.
8 102.Ok 1 ft. depth off east bank 1000 ft. upstream of
White Tower.
9 100.71-0.5 Contoocook River, 6 ft. depth, off south bank 500 ft.
downstream of R.R. bridge below tannery.
100.71 Confluence with Contoocook River.
97.83 Sewells Falls Dam.
10 95.30 k ft. depth off north bank 1 mile upstream of Iron
bridge above Concord.
11 93.38 2 ft. depth, 1 mile downstream Rt. 3B bridge.
- A-l -
-------
TABLE 1 (Continued)
STATION RIVER MILE DESCRIPTION
91.60 U. S. Route k & 202 Bridge, Concord, N. H.
12 91.51 10 ft. depth off west bank, 100 ft. downstream
k ft. diameter outfall.
87.61 Confluence with Turkey River.
86.80 Garvins Palls Dam.
13 86.60 8 ft. depth, 1/5 mile downstream from Garvins
Falls Dam.
Ik 86.30 1 ft. depth in midstream, off sandbar 1/2 mile
downstream of Garvins Falls Dam.
15 85.80-0.Ok Soucook River, 2 ft. depth off north bank 200 ft.
upstream of confluence with Merrimack River.
85.80 Confluence with Soucook River.
16 Qk.QO 10 ft. depth off east bank, 1 mile downstream of
Soucook River.
17 83.68 k ft. depth off west bank near Bow Bog Brook.
18 82.90-0.2 Suncook River, 3 ft. depth, midstream, 100 ft.
downstream of 5 ft. cement outfall.
82.90 Confluence with Suncook River.
19 81.2k k ft. depth off east bank, 1000 ft. upstream of
HooksetbDam.
81.05 Hooksett Dam.
20 80.55 10 ft. depth off west bank, 100 ft. downstream
of R.R. bridge.
21 77.60 8 ft. depth off east bank, 3 miles downstream
of Hooksett, N. H.
22 76.79 8 ft. depth under 1st high tension wires downstream
of Hookset Dam.
23 7^.17 8 ft. depth off east bank, 20 ft. downstream of
outfall opposite k radio towers.
- A-2 -
-------
TABLE 1 (Continued)
STATION RIVER MILE DESCRIPTION
73.Ik Amoskeag Dam, Manchester, N. H.
71.30 Confluence with Piscataquog River.
2k 68.05 1 ft. depth off east bank, 200 ft. upstream of
R.R. bridge.
25 65.11 1 ft. depth off east bank under high tension
wires, about 3 miles downstream of Goffs Falls.
62.35 Confluence with Souhegan River.
26 59.28 k ft. depth off west -bank, 1 mile below Nesenkeag
Brook.
27 58.29 5 ft. depth off east bank, 0.36 mile below Little
Nesenkeag Brook.
28 58.10 6 ft. depth in midstream at Rodonis1 Farm.
29 57.91 6 ft. depth, 1000 feet below Rodonis1 Farm.
30 57.10 k ft. depth, midstream, 0.65 mile below Pennichuck
Brook.
31 55.75 k ft. depth off east bank at high tension wires
about 1 mile upstream of Hudson Bridge.
32 5^.80-0.01 Nashua River, 1 ft. depth, midstream, 50 feet
upstream of confluence with Merrimack River.
33 $k.QO-k.O Nashua River, k ft. depth off south bank of canal,
10 ft. upstream of Rt. 3 bridge.
5*1.80 Confluence with Nashua River.
3k 5^.25 5 ft. depth off east bank, 100 ft. downstream of
Twin Piers below Hudson.
35 52.81 7 ft. depth, midstream 500 ft. upstream of high
tension wires.
36 52.72 Under high tension wires.
37 52.53 5 ft. depth, 1000 feet downstream of high tension
wires.
- A-3 -
-------
TABLE 1 (Continued)
STATION
-
38
39
to
1*1
1*2
1*3
Ul*
1*5
-
1*6
1*7
1*8
-
-
!*9
50
51
52
53
54
RIVER MILE
1*9.82
1*8.95
1*8.76
U8.57
1*7.51*
1*7.35
1*7.16
1*6.82
1*4.69
1*3.1*7
1*3.1*7
1*2.52
1*2.22
1*0.60
38.75
37.1*5
36.89
36.36
36.30
35.11
31*. 48
DESCRIPTION
New Hampshire -Massachusetts state line.
7 ft. depth, 1000 ft. upstream of Lakeview Avenue.
7 ft. depth, at Lakeview Avenue.
8 ft. depth, 1000 ft. downstream of Lakeview Avenue.
10 ft. depth, 1000 ft. upstream of Tyngsboro Bridge.
10 ft. depth, Tyngsboro Bridge.
10 ft. depth, 1000 feet downstream of Tyngsboro Bridge
10 ft. depth, below power lines.
9 ft. depth, 200 feet downstream of Tyngsboro
Island and small channel.
Lowell Water Intake.
1* ft. depth, 50 feet downstream of Deep Brook.
10 ft. depth, 50 feet downstream of power line.
10 ft. depth, off north bank, near Lowell Drive -In.
Pawtucketvllle Dam, Lowell, Mass.
Confluence with Concord River.
Below Duck Island.
1* ft. depth, off south bank 100 ft. downstream
of gas line crossing.
7 ft. depth, off north bank- 15 ft. downstream of
Richardson Creek culvert.
9 ft. depth, at midstream 300 ft. downstream of
culvert-Richardson Creek-near golf course.
200 yards upstream of power lines.
150 yards upstream of Dracut-Methuen line.
- A-l* -
-------
TABLE 1 (Continued)
STATION
55
56
-
57
58
59
60
-
-
61
-
-
62
63
64
65
66
67
-
68
RIVER MILE
3^.39
33.93
33.03
32.37
31-92
31.7^
31.66
29.81
28.99
28.50
27.85
27.^5
25.35
23.^3
21.85
21.15
19.62
19-35
18.85
17.75
DESCRIPTION
Dracut-Methuen line.
100 yards upstream of used car lot near Wheeler St.
Confluence with Fish Brook.
Drive-In Theater, Methuen.
At Mill Pond Brook (Bartlett Brook) off north bank.
Upstream end of Pine Island.
100 yards upstream of Interstate 93 bridge.
Lawrence Water Intake.
Essex Dam, Lawrence, Mass.
3 ft. depth, off east bank, 1/2 mile downstream
of Essex Dam.
Confluence with Spickett River.
Confluence with Shawsheen River.
k ft. depth, off north bank, opposite Western
Electric outfall.
k ft. depth, off east bank, upstream of Kimball
Island.
k ft. depth, off south bank, opposite Creek Brook.
k ft. depth, off south bank, opposite Stanley
Island.
k ft. depth, off south bank, opposite Moody School.
5 ft. depth, off north bank, 1000 ft. upstream of
Washington St. and Rt. 113 bridge.
Confluence with Little River.
5 ft. depth, off north bank, 200 ft. below outfall
of Hale Hospital.
- A-5 -
-------
TABLE 1 (Continued)
STATION
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
.82
83
RIVER MILE
17.30
16.56
16.51
16.17
16. lit
16.03
15.87
15.68
14.00
12.50
8.81
7.80
7.28
5.00
4.10
DESCRIPTION
3 ft. depth, off upstream end of Porter Island.
8 ft. depth, midway between buoys 60 & 6l.
5 ft. depth, off south bank, opposite downstream
tip of Porter Island.
6 ft. depth, line between Johnson's Creek &
Buoy #60-upstream.
5 ft. depth, line between Johnson's Creek &
Buoy #60-downstream.
3 ft. depth, on line between dry creek and Buoy #58
10 ft. depth, midway between Groveland Bridge
& Buoy #57.
300 yards downstream of Groveland Bridge.
5 ft. depth, off south bank, about 2 1/4 miles
upstream of Rocks Village Bridge.
4 ft. depth, off south bank, 3/4 mile upstream
of Rocks Village Bridge.
5 ft. depth, off south bank, 500 ft. upstream of
confluence with Indian River.
6 ft. depth, off south bank, 200 ft. upstream
of confluence with Artichoke River.
5 ft. depth, off south bank, 2000 ft. upstream
of Bailey Pond.
Off west bank Eagle Island.
4 ft. depth, off north bank, opposite mid-point
Carr Island.
84 3.40 6 ft. depth, off east bank 1/2 mile upstream of
R.R. bridge.
85 2.28 2 ft. depth, off north bank 100 yards downstream
of power lines.
- A-6 -
-------
TABLE 1 (Continued)
STATION RIVER MILE DESCRIPTION
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
2.20
2.1?
2.15
1.84
1.73
0.98
0.90
0.46-0.5
10 ft. depth, 50 yards downstream of Newburyport
sewage outfall.
10 ft. depth, in channel, on line between
Buoys 13A and 14.
5 ft. depth, off south bank, 500
of Newburyport sewage outfall.
3 ft. depth, off south bank, 700
of Newburyport sewage outfall.
6 ft. depth, 1/2 mile downstream
sewage outfall.
ft. downstream
yards downstream
of Newburyport
5 ft. depth, 100 feet offshore, opposite Shad Creek
5 ft. depth, just west of Woodbridge Island.
3 ft. depth in Black Rock Creek.
0.46 Confluence with Black Rock Creek.
94 0.15-1.15 Plum Island River, 5 ft. depth, off east bank of
little island between Woodbridge and Seal Island.
0.15 Confluence with Plum Island River and the Basin.
95 0.15-0.53 In Basin, 5 ft. depth, 200 ft. from south bank.
- A-7 -
-------
oo
TABLE 2
NUMBER OF BOTTOM ORGANISMS PER SQUARE METER
WHITMAN RIVER
(June
KINDS t
Beetles
Elmidae
Stenelmis sp.
Promoresia sp.
Psephenidae
Psephenus herricki
Caddis flies
Leptoceridae
Leptocerus sp.
Limnephilidae
Limnephilus sp.
Neophylax sp.
Hydropsychidae
Macronemum sp.
Smicridea sp.
Rhyacophilidae
Rhyacophila sp.
SENSITIVE ORGANISMS
SUBTOTAL ORGANISMS
SUBTOTAL KINDS
129
11
11
32
11
5^
^3
11
5l6
Stone flies - Taeniopteryginae
Brachyptera &p. 172
May flies - Heptageniidae
Iron sp. 65
Stenonema sp. 22
1077
12
KINDS
Beetles - Haliplidae
Haliplus sp.
Moth flies - Psychodidae
Pericoma sp.
Midge flies - Tendipedidae
Pentaneura sp.
Procladius sp.
Cryptochironomus sp,
Clams - Sphaeriidae
Pisidium sp.
SUBTOTAL ORGANISMS
SUBTOTAL KINDS
INTERMEDIATE ORGANISMS
11
850
850
161
11
65
19^8
6
Sludge worms - Tubificidae
tubificids without gills
SUBTOTAL ORGANISMS
SUBTOTAL KINDS
TOLERANT ORGANISMS
22
22
1
GRAND TOTAL ORGANISMS
GRAND TOTAL KINDS
30^7
19
-------
TABLE 3
KINDS OP BOTTOM ORGANISMS IN MERMMACK RIVER
AND NUMBERS PER SQUARE METER
STATION NO.
11
13 . 1U 15 16 17 18 19
21
23 24
25
26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 l»o la Ita It3 Wi 45 46
47
SKNSlTlVli ORGANISE
Caddiafliea - Tricbpptera
Helicopsychidae sp.
Leptoceridae «pi
T.^^p«aph< Hdae SP.
Riffle beetles - Elmldae
Steneljaia ap.
Subtotal Organis
Subtotal Kinds
INTERMEDIATE ORGANISMS
Biting midges - Releinae
BeKia sp^
Clan - Sphaeriidae
Piaidim ap.
Cranefliea - Tlpnlidae
ap.
Dragon fllea - Anisoptera
Midge fllea - Tendipedidae
Brillia, ap.
Calopaeetra ap.
Glyototendipea aenllla
IBs.
Pentaneura nelanopa
Polypediliaa convletua
""
Tanytarsua nigricana
Tanytaraua aubtendena
Hnaaela - Unionidae
Blllptio ap.
Unioaems ap.
Scavenger Beetles - Bydrophllldae
Scuds - Aaphipoda
Hyalella aiteca
Sow Bugs - Isopoda
Snails
BnllMldae
AmicolA ap.
Phyaldae
Phyma ap.
Bellsoaa ap.
Ojraulua sp»
TlTlparldae
Caapeloaa ap.
Subtotal Organlaaa
Subtotal Kinds
TOIZRANT OBGAmSMS
Leeehea - Sloaaipbonlldae
Qlosaiphonia heterocllta
Helobdella
Helobdella punetata - lineata
Helobdella s^fp-n-
Plaeobdella paraaitlea
Nidge fides - Tendipedidae
Glyptotendipee lobiferua
a antliraclnua
Slodgevom - Tubifieidae
Tubificida nitbont gllln
Subtotal Organiaaa
Subtotal Kinds
Grand Total Organiaaa
Grand Total Kind*
c
0
-
«
U*3
63
__
23<
-
16
16
1
254
c
0
0
--
16
583
16
835
5
"(fa.
536
1198
2
2033
7
0
0
-
Jjg
__
1*8
2
U2
930
16
126
173
1419
1467
8
0
0
-
lofc
_
19*
1
11
"
11
22
2
216
3
0
C
16
-
ICQ
1*89
3
U7
::
79
126
2
615
5
If
16
1
-
Il7
6l 5
16
710
4
95
142
126
427
5
1153
10
7S
16
95
2
-
16
l£
__
1167
3
go
32
79
236
457
5
1719
10
C
0
-
jO,
i4o
926
3
11
11
44
3
970
6
0
0
-
__
0
0
~~47
47
94
2
^
0
0
16
__
U8
2
16
~~
63
79
2
127
It
e
2l<
32
2
8
16
56
8
16
61
85
3
173
9
0
0
l£
-
*7
268
505
5
32
****
£Q
756
851
3
1356
8
C
C
"
16
16
1
~
~~
315
315
1
331
2
C
C
47
_
110
2
--
~~
95
190
2
300
C
0
32
"
_
32
1
~
110
110
1
i4a
2
0
0
16
32
64
3
16
~~
189
205
2
269
5
0
0
16
32
32
364
U
16
~~
126
Ute
2
506
6
0
0
32
U7
237
It
95
32
32
159
3
396
7
"^
0
0
8
88
9°
U88
6
33
7
~
,7
*7
9
535
s
0
0
"
205
_
32
300
--
32
16
80
3
380
7
16
16
1
32
"""
~~
If*
~~
1089
6
U7
16
16
47
126
It
1231
11
U7
47
1
16
it
32
__
"
w\
32
1136
10
79
110
221
£9
189
662
5
1845
16
0
0
«
»*7
91i
16
110
158
16
"S
1215
10
0
0
~
32
32
22
119
11
75
65
334
5
453
10
0
0
-
"
0
0
~~
IrtO
86
516
2
516
2
0
0
47
63
2
32
16
158
206
3
269
5
0
0
63
63
1
16
7092
7108
2
7171
3
0
0
63
63
1
189
189
1
252
2
0
0
16
16
1
16
16
1
32
2
16
16
1
-
48
2
16
16
1
80
4
0
0
-
0
0
79
1
79
1
0
0
-
0
0
32
64
2
64
2
0
0
-
6k
3
Obfi
1292
8148
3
8212
6
0
0
-
0
0
__
0
0
0
o
0
0
16
16
1
189
189
1
205
2
0
0
-
0
0
977
1009
2
1009
2
0
0
32
32
1
315
315
347
2
0
0
16
16
1
946
946
962
2
0
0
~
16
16
1
~~
867
867
883
2
0
0
16
"
u
5
599
599
647
0
0
~~
~"
"""
16
1
~~
16
71*
772
788
0
0
~~
"*~
~"
16
1
~~
1261
1261
1*77
0
0
~~
~
~~
~~
~~
0
0
"~
*$>
236
1
*
(
a
~~
~
~~
~~
~~
~~
(
«
-
-
W)
599
1
599
a
<
~
~~ .
~~
~~
~~
~~
~~
~~
(
(
-
?4
24
1
24
1
0
0
""*
~~
""
~~
~~
"
"
~~
16
1
-
1340
1340
1
1356
0
0
~~
~~
~~
~~
~~
"
~~
"
~~
i
-
6%
630
1
635
- A-9-
-------
TABLE 3 (Continued)
KINDS OF BOTTOM ORGANISMS IN MEKUMACK IUVEF
AND NUMBERS PER SQUARE METER
STATION NO.
50 51 52 53 5U 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 6U 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 71* 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 81* 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 9"< 95
SENSITIVE ORGANISMS
None
IMTERMEDIATE ORGANISMS
Barnacles - Balanonorpha
Clams
Myacidae
Mya arenaria
Sphaerlidae
Pisidiun sp.
Midge flies - Tendipedidae ..
Cryptochironomus sp.
Kndochironoms subtendens
Gljptotendipes aeniUs
Polypedllxm sp.
ProelBdius sp.
Mudcrabs - Pilvramidae
Bhithropanopeus h»i-ri «<
Mussels - Mytilidae
Mytilus edulls
Scuds
Ganmaridae
Ganmarus fasciatus
Gammarus locusts
Pontogeneiidae
Pontogeneia inermis
Shrink-like animals - Callianassidae
Callianassa atlantica
Sow Bugs
Anthuridae
Cyathura carinata
Janiridae
Jaera marina
Snails
Bulimidae
Amnicola sp.
Rissoidae
obia minuta
Subtotal Organisms
Subtotal Kinds
TOIfflANT ORGANISMS
Leeches - Glossiphoniidae
Helobdella fusca
Helobdella stagnalis
Marine Worms - Nereidae
Nereis sp.
Midge flies - Tendipedidae
Glyptotendlpes lobiferus
Tendipes anthraeinus
Sludgewonns - Tubificidae
Tubificids without gills
Subtotal Organisms
Subtotal Kinds
Grand Total Organ!s
Grand Total Kinds
0
0
21OU
2110
2
2110
2
~
0
0
71
79
2
79
2
8
8
8
21*
3
a
Qh
1 f.
115
173
1)
197
7
16
16
1
299
6U6
2
662
3
0
0
U7
79
2
79
2
i
0
1*7
5
55
&
111
11
0
0
13
13>t
13
0
0
16
16
16
0
0
It
1*
It
32
-
32
1
55
102
2
13*
3
0
0
k«7
281*
331
2
331
2
0
0
8
8
1
8
1
77
31
108
2
215
1*11*
21(1*2
3
2550
5
~
0
0
0
0
0
0
~
0
15
1*6
i»6
0
614
706
706
--
0
61
li
76
76
61
15
31
122
AT
307
721
81»3
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
146
61
2
61
2
79
16
32
11*3
i.
k*7
ifio
1261
1U97
3
16UO
7
0
230
1
230
1
16
16
56
1<
78
I6"t
5
220
9
~
32
32
1576
1907
2
1939
3
13**
16
MO
206
l£
ioK
1182
1332
3
1538
7
79
95
jyy
13UO
1955
3
2050
5
173
H7
U7
32
630
16
945
32
c/sL
11*972
15508
3
16^53
9
61
107
~~
168
3Ot
123
507
2
675
1*
6l
~~
61
31
31
1
92
2
~~
31
15
1*6
92
92
1
138
3
~~
0
1?
1»30
l4l»5
2
1*1*5
2
~
31
31
0
0
31
1
--
1*6
138
181*
16
16
1
200
3
169
230
107
1
337
3
693
693
0
0
693
1
32
iU3:
<
55U<
7<:
562'
706
1,
3o2
3&
3!
367;
U03I
1907
1907
1*10
1
2317
2
3089
308<
..
5106
8195
£-3
6;
2U5<
360<
367i
3£ftft
983"<
iVaoc
1*73
6872
16706
111*!
1*1*1
1113*
62
119£
163<
y-*C
23(
1-aL/
_
131*0
157
'
1*41
--
205
236U
301C
1505';
595'
896-
it
63
].6
32
16
__
3«
1(
175
6
189
__
189
1
361.
7
iC*.
16
520
536
9!
63J
1153
lj
- A-10 -
-------
TABLE k
SOUHEGAN RIVER MILES
BIOLOGICAL
SAMPLE
NUMBER
S-l
S-2
S-3
S-lf
S-5
S-6
S-7
S-8
8-9
S-10
S-ll
S-12
S-13
S-lU
RIVER
MTT.E
28.58
21. k6
21M
21.1*2
20. 15-1.
20.15
18.17
15.58
13.31
11.82
10.60
8.te
8.1*0
6.80
6.53
6.51
3. 11*
3
12
1.15
0.73
0.70
0.3U
0.00
LOCATION
Rte. 31 Bridge, Greenville
Rte. 31-101 Bridge, Wilton
Stony Brook
Confluence vdth Stony Brook, Wilton
North Purgatory Road Bridge, Milford
Confluence with Tucker Brook, Milford
Rte. 13-101 Bridge, Milford
Riverside Cemetery, Milford
Ponemah Bridge, Amherst
Honey Pot Pond Bridge, Amherst
Amherst-Merrimack Town line
Severns Bridge, Merrimack
Turkey Hill Bridge, Merrimack
USCG Gaging Station, Merrimack
Everett Turnpike Bridge, Merrimack
U. S. Route 3 Bridge, Merrimack
Confluence with Merrimack River (mile 62.35)
- A-ll -
-------
TABU 5
KZHDS OP BOTTOM
IN SOtHBQAK RIW ABB
AUMBBtS PB 89MB KBIM
STATION NO.
8-1 B-2 B-3 S-l» 8-5 8-6 8-7 8*8 8-9 8-1O 8-11 8-12 8-13 8-
Beetles
Elald
, Pseph
t
Caddis fli
a:
M
R
I
oaor
vpho
eg
mil
a**"7|i-<-
snidae
es - Trie
ilossosei
lelicovn
a gpj.
i bnrieki
JMptara
ftflU.
rcb« SP.
ids*
L; Ban £ , ; dae
Molanna gp.
Fish flies - Megoloptera
Chauliodes sp.
May flies - Bphemoptera
Aneletus gp.
Par"! ptophlebia gp.
Stoneflies - Plecoptera
Isoperla gp.
Subtotal Organigns
Subtotal Kinds
CTTB1MPIAIE ORQAHIfflffi
Beetles
Haliplldae
Brychius gp.
Hydrophilidae
Bjfdrochus gp.
Clams - Sphaeriidae
Museuliua gp.
Fialiina gp.
Crane flies - Tipulldae
Antocha gp.
Damsel flies - Zygoptera
Igchimra SP.
Dragon flies - Anisoptera
(kmpnus sp.
Midge flies - Tendipedidae
Brillia gp.
Cricotopus gp.
1
]
nooenii^o
Ql?nitoteni
I
in
iroba
«a
lipes lobiferus
OM SP.
Metrioenamug fuscipea
KlerotendJ-pes gp.
Polraedllum f allaz
Proeladius gp.
Mussels - Unionidae
Lamp sills gp.
Scuds - Amphipoda
Hyallela azteca
Snails
Bulimidae
Fl&norbidae
Heliscam SB.
TiTipariidae
Campeloaa gp.
Sow Bugs - Isopoda
Asellus militaris
Water Boatmen - Corixldae
Sigora sp.
Subtotal Organisms
Subtotal Kinds
TOiatAHT ORSAinSK
B
Leeches - Qlossiphoniidae
QlosBiphonia heteroclita
Helobdel " Tnmetata-lineata
Helobdel
Placobde
Midge flies - Tendipedidae
Tendipes anthraeinua
Sludgeworms - Tubificidae
Tubiflcids
Subtotal Organisms
Subtotal Kinds
Grand Total, Organisms
Grand Total Kinds
183
97
6k
11
118
5k
22
108
711
9
_
22
~
-.
.t3
22
n
*
75
75
1
8oU
lU
64
172
:*
129
u.
1*3
83e9
97
~
8
«
3
366
366
1
1*09
12
U
75
iko
s
237
5k
97
11
226
183
22
850
11
U
n
2036
16
32
22
97
5k
22
32
~
22
~
~
281
7
<
U3
1*3
1
2360
24
22
-.
32
97
3
__
~
11
32
2
11
2190
333
3
267k
8
"
~
~
172
11
183
2
11
11
~
~
11
22
32
130
6
2280
881
3l6l
2
10
11
~
_
n
i
_
»
~
~
0
0
118
MB
118
1
129
2
-
«
«
0
0
32
~
5k
118
22
366
592
5
iiuo
nUo
1
1732
6
32
'
U
~
1*3
2
"~
~
22
k3
11
32
108
k
108
2*7
151
506
3
657
~
~
108
11
~
119
2
~
~
75
183
11
269
3
6k
730
32
387
1013
k
1601
9
11
22
11
11
32
11
86
I8lf
7
«*.
n
u
5^
~
11
301
388
5
~
323
387
753
3
1325
15
-*
5k
U
65
2
11*0
--
--
u
11
*
891*
5
1*3-
1
1O08
11
-
32
22
^ , _
65
3
22
U
11
--
129
~
~
~
215
388
5
11
U
1
*$
<*
-
32
32
11
^
75
3
11
-
--
^
U
11
22
11
75
22
5*
U
22
250
10
~
150
366
516
Z
15
H3
U
..
2
75
22
22
32
191*
32
376
22
75
U
86
1033
32
75
365
ktz
3
1559
18
-------
TABLE 6
EROBUCTIVrrY OF MERRIMACK RIVER - AUGUST 1965
Date
Aug. 1965
18
19
20
A
25
26
AVERAGE
18
19
20
25
26
27
AVERAGE
18
19
20
2k
25
26
27
AVERAGE
Op Produced
gm/nP/day
0.576
0.0 -
1.140
979
0.1*50
0.629
5.33
3.72
3.55
6.53
7.82
2.18
1.25
4.34
2.83
3.16
4.34
6.05
7.57
4.52
4.15
4.66
7.30
3.65
3.05
1.00
0.70
1.20
2.82
40.8
21.4
12.1
15.6
11.2
14.6
19.3
32.7
32.0
17.3
17.8
25.2
23.9
24.8
Algae
No. x 10b/n>3
233.4
241.2
206.8
109.5
116.4
60.2
161.2
1230
938
507
1252
475
186
765
731
494
555
1488
1815
779
977
N03 + NO,
River Flow NHo-N Nitrogen"
106 CF/day mg/1 mg/1
Total N
82.7
RIVER MILE 65.11
0.48
0.64
RIVER MILE 48.76
95.0
103.7
99.4
96.8
93.3
86.4
0.44
0.66
0.6l
0.66
0.86
0.82
0.40
0.50
0.50
0.60
0.80
0.70
95.8 0.67 0.58
RIVER MILE 43.47
1.67
35
69
45
86
20
2.10
1.77
Ortho-POU
mg/1
87.3
78.6
72.6
82.9
88.1
86.4
0.51
0.49
0.30
0.53
0.53
0.49
0.60
0.50
0.55
0.80
0.80
0.60
1.55
1.41
1.46
2.13
1.92
1.58
0.36
0.42
0.32
0.30
0.29
0.25
0.32
0.61
0.63
0.64
0.54
0.64
0.51
0.60
Total
mg/1
0.77
0.53
0.37
0.46
0.39
0.34
0.48
0.74
0.73
0.78
0.72
0.77
0.52
0.71
99-3
108.9
106.3
95.9
86.4
86.4
0.36
0.49
0.49
0.69
0.74
0.66
0.50
0.40
0.45
0.60
0.80
0.60
1.37
1.17
1.95
1.90
1.86
0.44
0.55
0.53
0.49
0.50
0.50
0.58
0.73
0.69
0.59
0.59
0.64
97.2
0.57
0.56
1.65
0.50
0.64
Turbidity
mg/1
6.0
1.8
2.0
2.5
2.3
1.6
2.7
4.3
3.9
2.5
3.0
2.8
2.6
3.2
4.5
3.6
2.7
3.5
6.0
2.0
3.7
Solar Radiation
gm cal/cm2
314
220
338
464
488
298
354
314
220
338
464
488
298
354
314
220
338
464
488
298
354
NOTES: Nitrogen and phosphorus represent soluble forms.
All samples taken at one foot depth.
-------
TABLE 7
MDST ABUNDANT GENERA OF ALOA1 IN MSRIMACK RIVER
APRIL-OCTOBER, 1965
DIATOMS
Asterionella
Melosira
Synedra
I ivicula
Other
TOTAL ASU/ml
BLUE-GREEN
Anabaena
Polycystis
Coelosphaeiun.
Cscillatoria
Other
TOTAL ASU/ml
GREEH
Protococoua
Pediaatrum
Scened«smus
Eudorina
Pandorina
Other
TOTAL ASU/ml
FLAGELLATES
Dinobryon
Chlamydomonas
Synura
Mallononas
Eugiena
Other
TOTAL ASU/ml
9
455
40
Kf\
J\J
5U3
.-
--
0
20
20
375
1*5
200
.60
APRIL
16
100
40
30
50
10
230
_.
--
0
30
30
30
20
30
in
xw
20
23
130
70
10
30
on
j*-'
270
20
--
20
..
10
--
10
20
60
50
40
14
240
20
395
60
90
805
__
--
0
40
100
100
20
260
400
1*5
150
~
MAY
21
50
90
3K>
30
10
490
__
--
0
..
?0
80
130
285
50
225
~
28
160
325
250
20
__
755
20
50
70
550
60
-.
130
740
200
150
140
20
7
40
130
210
30
530
__
--
0
360
Ort
40
20
170
620
80
55
50
20
JUNK
11
150
260
90
10
i fin
±\j\j
30
640
'
__
250
820
on
30
..
_.
360
1300
80
30
10
181
90
40
190
40
._
500
en
?w
~
50
325
ion
j~c.\j
1*0
80
665
250
75
~
6
46
1277
__
1323
342
342
1 1 ll
410
1300
1915
3739
548
342
n4
J_LH
JD
12
..
700
40
,
740
Ron
(_nju
3400
300
4500
liAft
*tw
1370
300
1000
340.
3410
__
260
9£r>
LY
14
40
630
20
690
--
..
Aiin
570
300
1100
2610
..
40
200
on
c\J
23
870
100
__
970
.-
--
c
1280
T2r\
490
100
790
338o
340
On
O\J
40
SEP
29
97
--
281
19
397
__
--
0
194
272
291
174
931
97
so
OCT
29
58
19
19
_
96
--
0
..
281
97
-.
911
1289
78
39
194
1 3.1*
~
'780 110 170 695 560 510 205 120 325 1004 520 260 460 136 447
GRAND TOTAL
ASU/ml
1345 370 470 1760 1180 2075 1355 2310 1540 64o8 9170 3560 4810 1464 1S32
- A-14 -
-------
TABLE 8
MOST ABUNDANT GENERA OF ZOOPLANKTON IK MERRIMACK RIVER
APRIL-OCTOBER, 1965
CILIATES
Codonella
/orticella
Other
TOTAL #/20 ml
ROTIFERS
Polyarthra
Anuraea
Synchaeta
Triarthra
Other
TOTAL #/20 ml
CRUSTACEA
Bosmina
Cyclops
Daphnia
Nauplius
Other
TOTAL #/20 ml
CSRAND TOTAL, #/20 ml
ZOOPLANKTON
AMORPHOUS MATTER,
ASU/ml x 103
WATER TEMP. °C 9.5 9.2 17.2 20.1* 20 23.3 20.2 2l*.2 28 25 Zk 19 9-7
AmU MAY
Q 16 23 11* 21
100
0 0 0 0 100
1
00001
00001
0 0 0 0 102
1.2 1 2.25 10 10
28
0
6
8
0
8
1.5
JUNE
7 11 18 6
5 - 2 -
25 2 2 0
10 10 25
10 10 28 18
,
0 k 0 1
35 16 30 19
352 2.85
12
0
10
12
k
27
7
2
9
36
2
JULY
Ifc 23
__
0 0
1»0
1
2
12 --
12 43
5
5 12
17 55
2 1.25
SEP
29
1
9
10
8
13
3
Q
33
1
2
3
1*6
7.8
XT
29
1*008
1*008
2
_
1
3
0
U011
3.49
- A-15 -
-------
MERRIMACK RIVER BASIN
4 4 t
------- |