Appendix D: State-Listed Salamander Surveys

Transcription

STATE-LISTED SALAMANDER SURVEYS
EAST LONGMEADOW, WILBRAHAM, AND LUDLOW, MASSACHUSETTS
GREATER SPRINGFIELD RELIABILITY PROJECT
Prepared For:
The Western Massachusetts Electric Company
One Federal Street
Springfield, Massachusetts 01105
Prepared By:
ENSR
11 Phelps Way
Willington, Connecticut 06279
November 2008
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Northeast
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Contents
1.0 Introduction ................................................................................................................................................1
2.0 Background ................................................................................................................................................1
3.0 Methods.......................................................................................................................................................2
4.0 Results.........................................................................................................................................................3
4.1 East Longmeadow (Noticed Alternative) ............................................................................................3
4.2 Ludlow (Preferred Route) ....................................................................................................................3
4.3 Wilbraham (Noticed Alternative) .........................................................................................................4
5.0 Conclusions................................................................................................................................................5
List of Appendices
Appendix A NHESP Correspondence
Appendix B Example Field Data Collection Sheet
Appendix C Rare Animal Observation Forms
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List of Tables
Table 1. Adult Amphibians Captured in Traps During the Breeding Migration in East Longmeadow, MA
Table 2. Evidence of Successful Breeding Activity within Surveyed Wetlands
Table 3. Adult Amphibians Captured in Traps During the Breeding Migration in Ludlow, MA
Table 4. Adult Amphibians Captured in Traps During the Breeding Migration in Wilbraham, MA
List of Figures
Figure 1. Project Overview and NHESP Priority Habitat / Estimated Habitat Boundaries
Figure 2. Total Adult Amphibian Captures and Breeding Migration Patterns Relative to Local Weather
Conditions.
Figure 3. East Longmeadow Rare Species Survey Locus Map
Figure 4. East Longmeadow Trapping Locations
Figure 5. Ludlow Rare Species Survey Locus Map
Figure 6. Ludlow Trapping Locations
Figure 7. Wilbraham Rare Species Survey Locus Map
Figure 8. Wilbraham Trapping Locations
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1.0
Introduction
This report provides a summary of the rare salamander investigations conducted within the Massachusetts
portion of the proposed Greater Springfield Reliability Project (GSRP). To ensure continued reliable electric
power in southern New England, Western Massachusetts Electric Company (WMECO), which is owned and
operated by Northeast Utilities Service Company (NUSCO), proposes the GSRP - a new 345-kilovolt (kV)
transmission line between WMECO’s Ludlow Substation in Ludlow, Massachusetts and the North Bloomfield
Substation in Bloomfield, Connecticut. Additional electric transmission facility activities are associated with the
proposed Project, including improvements to existing 115 kV transmission lines, and the expansion and
construction of switching and/or substations. In Massachusetts, the Preferred (Northern) Route will traverse
the municipalities of Agawam, West Springfield, Springfield, Chicopee, and Ludlow along existing transmission
routes where overhead 115-kV transmission lines currently exist. In accordance with Energy Facilities Siting
Board (EFSB) requirements, WMECO evaluated an alternative route, known as the Noticed-Alternative
(Southern) Route. The Noticed-Alternative Route would traverse an existing transmission route in a
northeasterly direction through the municipalities of Agawam, Longmeadow, East Longmeadow, Hampden,
Wilbraham and Ludlow (Figure 1).
On behalf of WMECO, ENSR conducted rare species surveys along the Preferred and Noticed-Alternative
Routes. Field investigations were conducted in the spring and summer of 2008. This report discusses the
field/survey methods used in the rare salamander surveys and summarizes the findings of these surveys.
2.0
Background
Following establishment of the two routes (i.e., the Preferred Route and the Noticed-Alternative Route), a
desktop analysis for potential environmental impacts was conducted. During this evaluation several areas of
mapped Priority Habitats of Rare Species (PH) and Estimated Habitats of Rare Wildlife (EH) (Massachusetts
Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program; NHESP, October 2007) were identified as intersecting
the proposed routes (see Figure 1). Therefore, NU submitted a rare species data request for the GSRP to the
NHESP in a letter dated April 20, 2007 (Appendix A). The NHESP responded to this request with a letter
dated January 9, 2008 (Appendix A). The response letter verified that the Preferred and the Noticed
Alternative Routes for the GSRP, as then proposed, intersected several Priority and Estimated Habitats for
which the NHESP had records for a number of state-listed rare species.
After receiving the response letter, ENSR and Burns & McDonnell (environmental and engineering consultants
retained by NU to assist with the project) met with the NHESP on February 7, 2008 to discuss in more detail
the potential rare species implications for the GSRP.
During the meeting, the project team informed NHESP that the geographic scope of the project had changed
somewhat and that a transmission spur from the existing right-of-way (ROW) in Ludlow north to a point in the
vicinity of Westover Air Force Base (AFB) had been eliminated from the project. As a result, the state-listed
species associated exclusively with the Priority Habitat identified as PH 39 were no longer a concern.
Shortly following the February 7, 2008 meeting with NHESP, NU provided NHESP with project Shape files
depicting proposed structure locations so that NHESP could provide more detailed rare species information to
NU and determine exactly where rare species surveys should be conducted. At this time, the NHESP
recommended NU conduct surveys for two state-listed species of Special Concern currently protected under
the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) (M.G.L. c. 131A) and its implementing regulations (321
CMR 10.00); the Jefferson salamander (Ambystoma jeffersonianum) and the Blue-spotted salamander
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(Ambystoma laterale) within designated Priority and Estimated Habitats located in East Longmeadow (PH
1191, EH 564), Wilbraham (PH 167, EH 756) and Ludlow (PH 1142, EH 493) (see Figure 1).
As directed by the NHESP, Jefferson and Blue-spotted salamander surveys were conducted within the
aforementioned locations in the early spring of 2008. The surveys were performed in accordance with a
protocol that ENSR had submitted to the NHESP and that the NHESP modified and approved in an e-mail
message dated March 11, 2008 (Appendix A). On March 26, 2008 ENSR received a Scientific Collection
Permit (Permit #217.08WRA; Appendix A) from the NHESP. The NHESP Tracking number for this project is
08-24212. The mapping for the surveys was generated by ENSR with guidance from the NHESP GIS
technicians. Specifically, ENSR used shape files and pole numbers provided by the NHESP to generate the
mapping.
3.0
Methods
The purpose of this study was to determine if Jefferson and Blue-spotted salamanders were utilizing habitats
within the subject ROWs and if present, to evaluate their use of aquatic breeding habitats.
Like other species of mole salamanders in the genus Ambystoma, Jefferson and Blue-spotted salamanders
spend the majority of their annual life-cycle dispersed across the landscape within upland forest habitats and
subterranean small mammal burrows. Determining presence-absence or abundance is nearly impossible
under these circumstances. However, each year during the early spring mole salamanders will migrate to
vernal pools and other ephemeral wetlands to breed. This annual event brings adults to discrete locations of
the landscape often in large numbers creating a unique opportunity to easily survey for adults.
Accordingly, survey efforts were initiated during the spring breeding migration in March and April of 2008 by
qualified ENSR biologists pre-approved by the NHESP. Methods implemented funnel trapping (using standard
minnow traps) and Visual Encounter Surveys (VES) within wetland habitats. In addition, three rounds of dipnetting and VES were conducted in wetland and adjacent terrestrial habitats from May into July to allow for
increased temporal coverage, and the search for additional life stages (i.e., larvae and metamorphs).
•
Funnel traps (standard minnow traps) were deployed in all suitable wetland habitats including classic
vernal pools, and palustrine emergent, scrub-shrub, and forested wetlands to capture adult
salamanders. The un-baited traps were placed in water depths ranging from 15 centimeters to 1
meter, and at a frequency of one trap every 7.5 meters along suitable shoreline habitat, and/or at a
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density of two traps per 25m within suitable non-shoreline habitat. Traps were deployed and
remained in place throughout the breeding migration period and checked no less than once every
twenty-four hours.
•
VES surveys within wetland habitats were conducted throughout the trapping period for the purpose of
identifying mole salamander spermatophores, egg masses, and/or larvae. Egg mass searches were
conducted by teams of two biologists during the day using hip or chest waders to visually locate and
identify egg masses within water depths of 1 meter or less.
•
Following completion of the trapping effort, additional VES for egg masses and dip-netting for
amphibian larvae were performed within each of the subject wetlands. In addition, cover objects (e.g.,
large rocks, logs, and other piles of woody debris) within terrestrial habitats directly adjacent to the
wetlands were overturned (and carefully replaced) to search for emigrating adults (in April) and
emigrating metamorphs (May into July).
•
All trap locations and additional observations (e.g., egg masses) were digitally photographed, and
located using a hand held Trimble Global Positioning System (GPS; sub-meter accuracy).
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Standardized data sheets were used for recording trapping information (example datasheet in
Appendix B) and VES survey results were recorded in project specific field books.
4.0
Results
Trapping and visual encounter surveys were conducted in three separate towns as requested by the NHESP;
East Longmeadow, Ludlow, and Wilbraham, Massachusetts. Traps were deployed on March 17, 2008 in each
of the towns and remained in place through April 15, 2008. Trapping results, site conditions and local weather
data (i.e., East Longmeadow; wunderground.com) suggest that traps were in place prior to any amphibian
migration and remained in place for the entire breeding migration period for mole salamanders and wood
frogs. That is, all traps were in place for several days before any amphibians were captured, nighttime
temperatures were sub-freezing and potential breeding areas were frozen solid in all wetlands until
approximately March 20th and longer in many other wetlands. At the time of the first observed migration, only
the wetland edges were ice-free, and average daily temperature and daily precipitation corresponded well with
adult amphibian capture rates (Figure 2). Adult amphibian capture rates standardized by the number of
deployed traps demonstrate the cycling in breeding activity associated with weather conditions among the
three different sample locations / towns (Figure 2). Dip-net and terrestrial cover object surveys were
conducted in May through July in Wilbraham, in Ludlow, and East Longmeadow. Capture results specific to
each town are detailed in the sections below.
4.1
East Longmeadow
The East Longmeadow study area extends from Somers Road (Route 83) approximately 1160 meters
southwest through a large wetland system associated with Watchaug Brook. It lies north of the Elmcrest
Country Club and south of Pease Road (Figure 3). A total of thirty-eight (38) traps were deployed among three
separate wetland systems demarcated as W05HA065 and W05HA066 (separated by small fill road associated
with ROW), W05HA067 (isolated wetland), and W05HA068 and W05HA069 (separated by small fill road
associated with ROW) (Figures 4A, 4B, 4C). Wetlands 066 through 069 were predominantly palustrine
forested (PFO) with scrub-shrub (PSS) and emergent (PEM) wetlands situated within the ROW. Surface
water was generally 20-25 cm deep throughout these wetlands. Wetland 065, the floodplain of Watchcaug
Brook, is characterized as a large flooded PSS/PEM wetland with some areas of flooded PFO and generally
has deeper water habitats offering greater opportunity for successful amphibian breeding located
predominantly outside of the existing ROW. Many dead snags were observed as a result of historic beaver
activity that has altered the hydrology in this area.
Traps were deployed for 29 days resulting in 1102 trap-nights, and the capture of sixty-seven (67) adult
amphibians. Species captured in traps included spotted salamander (Ambystoma maculatum), green frog
(Rana clamitans), bull frog (Rana catesbeiana) and wood frog (Rana sylvatica).
The highest capture rates were associated with spotted salamanders in wetland W05HA065, which accounted
for approximately 64.2% of all adult amphibian captures (Table 1). Nothing was captured in wetland
th
W05HA067 and W05HA068. Wood frog chorusing was noted on several days beginning March 26 and
th
st
continuing through April 8 . Spring peepers chorused most days from April 1 through the end of the trapping
survey (April 15th). Chorusing activity was primarily associated with wetland W05HA065. Within the existing
ROW, egg masses of spotted salamanders and wood frogs were observed in two different wetlands (Table 2).
No state-listed species including individuals of the Jefferson salamander and Blue-spotted salamander
complex were observed.
4.2
Ludlow
The Ludlow study area spans approximately 500 meters of east-west oriented, existing ROW between Booth
Street and Munsing Street and is approximately 220 meters north of Church Street (Figure 5). A total of thirty-
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seven (37) traps were deployed among four (4) separate wetland systems demarcated as W02HA037 through
W02HA041 (W02HA040 is an isolated wetland located outside of the existing ROW and was therefore not
trapped; Figure 6A and 6B). Wetland 037 is associated with Higher Brook, and 038, 039 and 040 appear to be
manmade wetlands resulting from historic gravel operations in the vicinity. Wetlands 039 and 040 are also
isolated hydrologically.
Traps were deployed for 29 days resulting in approximately 1070 trap-nights, and the capture of twenty-six
(26) adult amphibians. Species captured in traps included spotted salamander (Ambystoma maculatum),
spring peeper (Pseudacris crucifer), green frog (Rana clamitans), and wood frog (Rana sylvatica).
Highest capture rates were associated with wood frogs, which accounted for approximately 73.1% of all adult
amphibian captures (Table 3). Nothing was captured in wetland W02HA038 and only one spotted salamander
was captured in wetland W02HA037. Chorusing spring peepers were first noted on April 3rd and generally
continued throughout the trapping duration. Chorusing wood frogs were first noted on April 8th and last heard
on April 10th. Limited direct evidence of breeding amphibians (e.g., egg masses) were observed during
surveys and two rounds of dip-netting in June and July of 2008 throughout the entire study area resulted in no
captures of larval amphibians. Extensive terrestrial cover object surveys throughout the entire study area also
resulted in no adult or metamorphic amphibian observations. No state-listed species including individuals of
the Jefferson salamander and Blue-spotted salamander complex were observed.
4.3
Wilbraham
The Wilbraham study area extends from approximately 480 meters north of Tinkham Road to approximately
170 meters south of Soule Road (total length of approximately 1800 meters) along an existing ROW that
roughly parallels East Longmeadow Road located to the west (Figure 7). A total of 106 traps were deployed
among ten (10) separate wetland systems demarcated as W07HA023 through W07HA033 (W07HA025
contained no standing water and was not trapped). A large proportion of wetlands 023 and 024 exhibited little
or no standing water, and were predominantly PEM/PSS within the existing ROW. Water depths were shallow
(0-15 cm deep) in the adjacent PFO just off of the ROW. Traps were placed where suitable water depths
permitted (Figure 8A). Wetland 026 is a large PSS swamp flooded with 30 to 60 cm of water in most areas. In
addition, two deeper depressions were also observed with water depths between 90 and 120 cm deep ( in the
vicinity of traps W82 and W85; Figure 8B). Wetland 027 and the eastern portion of 029 are PFO wetlands with
moderate water depths of 30-60 cm deep. The western portion of wetland 029 and wetland 030 are shallow
PSS/PEM wetlands within the existing ROW that are isolated from each other by an existing access road
within the ROW and separated from wetland 027 by an old cart path/woods road (Figure 8B). Wetland 031
(Figures 8C and 8D) is a large, deep kettle hole bog with a floating peat mat (PSS). Only small amounts of
open water were available for trapping along the wetland edge adjacent to the ROW, however a deep (> than
120 cm) permanently flooded open water area (approximately 330 square meters) was located at the northern
end of this wetland and is where trapping efforts were concentrated. Only two small isolated wetlands were
present south of Soule Road, wetland 032 and 033 (Figure 8D). Wetland 032 is a small manmade ditch
exhibiting moderate water depths 60-90 cm. Wetland 033 is shallow with a dense scrub-shrub thicket and a
storm water drain entering from the west.
Traps were deployed for 29 days, resulting in approximately 3000 trap-nights, and the capture of 441 adult
amphibians. Species captured in traps included spotted salamander (Ambystoma maculatum), red-spotted
newt (Notophthalmus viridescens), spring peeper (Pseudacris crucifer), green frog (Rana clamitans), pickerel
frog (Rana palustris), and wood frog (Rana sylvatica).
Species of the target group that includes Jefferson salamander (Ambystoma jeffersonianum) and Blue-spotted
salamander (Ambystoma laterale) (i.e., Jefferson salamander complex) were also captured in traps. Rare
Animal Observation forms complete with representative photographs of individuals and habitats were
submitted to the NHESP on April 4, 2008 and April 28, 2008 (Appendix C). In ENSR’s opinion, most
individuals captured were likely a hybrid complex between the two species.
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The highest capture rates were associated with spotted salamanders, which accounted for approximately
72.8% of all adult amphibian captures (Table 4). Next highest capture rates were individuals from the
Jefferson salamander complex and wood frogs at 9.8% and 7.7% of all adult amphibian captures respectively.
Wetlands exhibiting the greatest number of captures included 031, 026 and 029 (n=145, 97, and 72
respectively) and accounted for approximately 71.2% of all adult amphibian captures.
Chorusing spring peepers were heard beginning April 1st and continued throughout the trapping duration.
Wood frog chorusing was first noted on April 7th and also continued sporadically throughout the trapping
duration. Direct evidence of breeding amphibians (e.g., egg masses) was noted during the trapping period,
and two rounds of dip-netting in June and July of 2008 throughout the entire study area resulted in the capture
of larval salamanders and frogs (see Table 2). Extensive terrestrial cover object surveys throughout the entire
study area resulted in no adult or metamorphic amphibian observations. Although egg masses of the
Jefferson salamander complex were positively identified, no larvae were captured during dip-netting surveys
within the breeding pools.
5.0
Conclusions
In general, Wilbraham exhibited the best amphibian breeding habitat among the three survey areas as
evidenced by the large number of adult amphibian captures (even with capture rates standardized by the
number of traps; Figure 2) and the presence of a substantial population of the Jefferson salamander complex
(Blue-spotted and Jefferson Salamanders). Although adult salamanders were not marked in any fashion (e.g.,
toe clipping), forty-three (43) individuals were captured among five (5) different wetlands throughout the study
reach.
No individuals of the Jefferson salamander complex were captured at the East Longmeadow or Ludlow study
sites, only more common amphibian species such as wood frogs, spotted salamanders and spring peepers
were observed. For East Longmeadow, the low capture rates in traps and the paucity of breeding evidence for
successful breeding (e.g., few egg masses and no amphibian larvae) within these wetlands was likely due to
the general lack of suitable breeding habitats within the ROW where trapping efforts were focused. Most adult
amphibians captured were likely in route to primary breeding habitats located to the north of the existing ROW.
In ENSR’s opinion, in Ludlow, where only one individual of the genus Ambystoma (Ambystoma maculatum)
was trapped, it is unlikely that Blue-spotted salamanders exist. This may be in large part due to the fact that
the ROW and much of the adjacent landscape has been degraded by the operation of a sand and gravel
facility, which has since been abandoned.
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Table 1. Adult Amphibians Captured in Traps During the Breeding
Migration in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts.
Wetland
W05HA065
W05HA066
W05HA067
W05HA068
W05HA069
Total
Captures
Spotted
Salamander
43
2
0
0
0
Bull
Frog
1
0
0
0
0
Green
Frog
8
3
0
0
8
Wood
Frog
2
0
0
0
0
Total
Captures
54
5
0
0
8
45
1
19
2
67
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Table 2. Evidence of Successful Breeding Activity within Surveyed Wetlands.
Town
East Longmeadow
East Longmeadow
East Longmeadow
East Longmeadow
East Longmeadow
East Longmeadow
Ludlow
Ludlow
Ludlow
Ludlow
Ludlow
Ludlow
Ludlow
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wilbraham
Wetland
065
065
065
067
069
069
037
038
039
039
040
041
041
023
023
023
024
026
026
026
026
026
027
027
027
027
029
030
030
031
031
031
032
033
033
Species
Spotted Salamander
Spring Peeper
Wood Frog
Wood Frog
Spotted Salamander
Wood Frog
Spring Peeper
Spring Peeper
Spring Peeper
Wood Frog
Wood Frog
Spring Peeper
Wood Frog
American toad
Green Frog
Spring Peeper
Spring Peeper
Green Frog
Jefferson Complex
Spotted Salamander
Spring Peeper
Wood Frog
Jefferson Complex
Spotted Salamander
Spring Peeper
Wood Frog
Wood Frog
Spotted Salamander
Wood Frog
Green Frog
Spotted Salamander
Spring Peeper
Wood Frog
Spotted Salamander
Wood Frog
7
Chorus
Y
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
Y
N
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Y
Egg
Masses
Y
N
Y
N
Y
Y
N
N
N
Y
Y
N
Y
N
N
N
N
N
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
Y
N
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Y
N
Y
N
Y
Larvae
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
Y
N
Y
N
N
N
Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
Y
Dry
Dry
Dry
Y
N
N
Y
Y
Y
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Table 3. Adult Amphibians Captured in Traps During the Breeding
Migration in Ludlow, Massachusetts.
Wetland
W02HA037
W02HA038
W02HA039
W02HA040
W02HA041
Total
Captures
Spotted
Salamander
1
0
0
0
0
Spring
Peeper
4
0
0
0
0
Green
Frog
1
0
1
0
0
Wood
Frog
10
0
7
0
2
Total
Captures
16
0
8
0
2
1
4
2
19
26
Table 4. Adult Amphibians Captured in Traps During the Breeding Migration in Wilbraham,
Massachusetts.
Wetland
W07HA023
W07HA024
W07HA025
W07HA026
W07HA027
W07HA028
W07HA029
W07HA030
W07HA031
W07HA032
W07HA033
Total
Captures
Jefferson
Complex
0
1
0
27
11
0
0
0
0
3
1
Spotted
Salamander
1
21
0
40
6
4
63
19
138
18
11
Redspotted
Newt
0
0
0
14
0
0
0
2
6
0
0
Spring
Peeper
0
6
0
6
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
Green
Frog
0
4
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
Pickerel
Frog
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Wood
Frog
3
3
0
10
2
1
7
6
1
1
0
Total
Captures
4
36
0
97
19
5
72
27
145
24
12
43
321
22
14
6
1
34
441
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Figure 1. Project Overview and NHESP Priority Habitat / Estimated Habitat Boundaries.
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t
Ave
Sou thwick
Suffield St
St
Bicent
y
EH 756
Su
s
Colum bu
ie
5
nt Ave
l St
gf
in
n St
Alle
Be lm
o
Lo ng hil
N Westfie ld St
r
Sp
ld
A ve
Hw
en nial
St
Mapsheet 10 of 17
AGAWAM
rR
Hall
Hill
Taylor Rd
E St N
North St
Mapsheet 07 of 17
Rd
N G ra
nd S t
Mapsheet 06 of 17
Mapsheet 04 of 17
Shaker Rd
St
e
ng fi
Sp ri
N Maple
St
Elm
Thom psonv ille Rd
t
ain
S
NM
190
Somers
Haz ar
t
St
SM
MA Border to South Agawam
South Agawam to Agawam
East Springfield Jct to Fairmont
So uth
St
oo k Rd
Agawam to Ludlow North Route
Rd
Bro ad Br
ain S
Connecticut
Main
th
So u
S Gra
nd St
ENFIELD
Massachusetts Index Map
d Ave
d
Rd
ld R
Enfie ld St
SUFFIELD
tain
Hampden
Junction
Mapsheet 08 of 17
Mapsheet 05 of 17
Mo
un
Rd
EH 564
PH 1191
d
Mapsheet 03 of 17
Mapleton Ave
Mapsheet 09 of 17
e rs
East Springfield to Shawinigan
South Agawam to Ludlow
Priority Habitats of Rare Species
Windsor Locks
Map Location
CT
345-kV Overhead
Preferred Route
345-kV Overhead
"Southern" Route Alternative
115-kV Improvements
NH
Substation
Junction
345-kV Existing to Remain
in Corridor
115-kV Existing to Remain
in Corridor
RI
0
NJ
Ellington
East Windsor
Electric Transmission Routes
MA
NY
Estimated Habitats of Rare Wildlife
Rd
Depot Hill
ME
VT
Kin g St
E St S
East Granby
1
2
3
Miles 1:100,000
Data Source: MASS
GIS 2008
Greater Springfield
Reliability Project
Figure 6-1
Designated Rare
Species Habitats in
Massachusetts
Date: May 2008
Y:\Projects\NorthEast_Utilities\GSRP\MXD\Constraints_Mapping\Environmental\Miscellaneous\EndangeredSpecies_Overview_GSRP_MA_May2008.mxd
EH 875
ke
St
Mapsheet 02 of 17
Mapsheet 01 of 03
Sh
a
ct
PH 1236
Rd
Mapsheet 02 of 03
So m
LONGMEADOW
e
sp
PH 1101 Mapsheet 03 of 03
Mapsheet 01 of 17
EH 449
HAMPDEN
EAST LONGMEADOW
adow St
South Agawam
Junction
o
Pr
Pin
e
South Agawam
Substation
Sh ake r
EH 577
Massachusetts
EH 450
PH 1102
Mapsheet 01 of 03
Lo ng me
St
PH 1200
Silver
Substation
Main St
S Westfield St
SOUTHWICK
Northeast
Utilities System
Figure 2. Total Adult Amphibian Captures and Breeding Migration Patterns Relative to Local Weather
Conditions.
10
November 2008
3/
17
3/ /20
18 0
8
3/ /20
19 08
3/ /20
20 0
8
3/ /20
21 08
3/ /20
22 08
3/ /20
23 0
8
3/ /20
24 08
3/ /20
25 0
8
3/ /20
26 08
/
3/ 20
27 0
8
3/ /20
28 08
3/ /20
29 08
3/ /20
30 0
8
3/ /20
31 08
/
4/ 200
1/ 8
4/ 200
2/ 8
4/ 200
3/ 8
4/ 200
4/ 8
4/ 200
5/ 8
4/ 200
6/ 8
4/ 200
7/ 8
4/ 200
8/ 8
4/ 200
9 8
4/ /20
10 0
8
4/ /20
11 08
4/ /20
12 08
4/ /20
13 0
8
4/ /20
14 08
4/ /20
15 0
/2 8
00
8
Adult Amphibian Captures / Total Traps
03
/1
03 8/0
/1 8
03 9/0
/2 8
03 0/0
/2 8
03 1/0
/2 8
03 2/0
/2 8
03 3/0
/2 8
03 4/0
/2 8
03 5/0
/2 8
03 6/0
/2 8
03 7/0
/2 8
03 8/0
/2 8
03 9/0
/3 8
03 0/0
/3 8
04 1/0
/0 8
04 1/0
/0 8
04 2/0
/0 8
04 3/0
/0 8
04 4/0
/0 8
04 5/0
/0 8
04 6/0
/0 8
04 7/0
/0 8
04 8/0
/0 8
04 9/0
/1 8
04 0/0
/1 8
04 1/0
/1 8
04 2/0
/1 8
04 3/0
/1 8
04 4/0
/1 8
5/
08
Total Captures (Adults)
Total Captures (Adults)
160
140
120
1
0.8
Total Adults
Daily Precipitation
100
80
60
40
20
0
140
Total Adults
120
Average Daily Temperature
160
70.0
100
60
40
1.2
E. Longmeadow
Ludlow
Wilbraham
0.6
0.4
0.2
0
60.0
50.0
80
40.0
30.0
20.0
20
10.0
0
0.0
Daily Precipitation (inches)
0.90
0.80
0.70
0.60
0.50
0.40
0.30
0.20
0.10
0.00
Average Daily Temperature (F)
03
/1
03 8/0
/1 8
03 9/0
/2 8
03 0/0
/2 8
03 1/0
/2 8
03 2/0
/2 8
03 3/0
/2 8
03 4/0
/2 8
03 5/0
/2 8
03 6/0
/2 8
03 7/0
/2 8
03 8/0
/2 8
03 9/0
/3 8
03 0/0
/3 8
04 1/0
/0 8
04 1/0
/0 8
04 2/0
/0 8
04 3/0
/0 8
04 4/0
/0 8
04 5/0
/0 8
04 6/0
/0 8
04 7/0
/0 8
04 8/0
/0 8
04 9/0
/1 8
04 0/0
/1 8
04 1/0
/1 8
04 2/0
/1 8
04 3/0
/1 8
04 4/0
/1 8
5/
08
Figure 2. Total adult amphibian captures and breeding migration patterns relative to local weather conditions.
Northeast
Utilities System
Figure 3. East Longmeadow Rare Species Survey Locus Map.
11
November 2008
PH 1014
EH 376
PH 167
PH 718
SURVEY EXTENT
EH 756
PH 717
EH 564
PH 1191
USGS 15 MINUTE TOPOGRAPHIC
QUADRANGLE HAMDEN AND
SPRINGFIELD SOUTH,
MASSACHUSETTS
MA
Legend
Survey Extents
k
j
NHESP Certified Vernal Pools
ROW Lines
NHESP Estimated Habitats of Rare Wildlife
NHESP Priority Habitats of Rare Species
Town Boundary
0
1,000
2,000
4,000
Feet
É
Jefferson Salamander Complex
Survey Extents - East Longmeadow,
Massachusetts
Greater Springfield Reliability Project
SCALE
DATE
PROJECT NO.
1:24000
08/08
01131-002
J:\Water\ProjectFiles\P10\01131\GSRP_RareSpecies\GIS\MXD\Fig3_EastLongmeadow.mxd
Figure Number
3
Northeast
Utilities System
Figure 4. East Longmeadow Trapping Locations.
12
November 2008
NJ
NY
CT
MA
RI
NH
ME
HWICK
ESTFIELD
Suffield
AGAWAM
Enfield
Somers
LONGMEADOW
HAMPDEN
WILBRAHAM
WEST SPRINGFIELD
SPRINGFIELD
Index Map
Stafford
0
54/20
ELM 25
ELM 24
ELM 28
ELM 27
ELM 29
ELM 26
100
GSRP ROW
200
Feet
345-kV Overhead "Southern" Route Alternative
345-kV Existing to Remain in Corridor
Salamander Trap Site
5
VT
06
Map Location
a-
54/21
ELM 35
ELM 30
ELM 34
ELM 33
0
sh
51:1200 1" = 100'
Wetland Line
Watercourse
Wetland Area
EAST
LONGMEADOW
w05ha065
ELM 22
Data Souce: 2005 Imagery
ENSR Survey: April 2008
54/19
ELM 19
ELM 20
ELM 21
E Longmeadow Mapsheet 1 of 3
Locations - MA
Greater Springfield
Reliability Project
Date: April 2008
Project Number: 01131-001
ELM 16
ELM 17
ELM 15
Y:\Projects\NorthEast_Utilities\GSRP\MXD\Survey_Figures\Salamander_Survey_MA\Salamander_Traps_MA.mxd
NJ
NY
CT
VT
MA
RI
NH
ME
Map Location
HWICK
ESTFIELD
Suffield
AGAWAM
Enfield
Somers
LONGMEADOW
HAMPDEN
WILBRAHAM
WEST SPRINGFIELD
SPRINGFIELD
Index Map
ELM 18
Stafford
0
100
GSRP ROW
200
Feet
ELM 16
ELM 17
ELM 15
54/18
w05ha065
s-05-ha-065a
1:1200 1" = 100'
Wetland Line
Watercourse
Wetland Area
EAST
LONGMEADOW
54/17
ELM 14
ELM 39
ELM 13
ELM 11
w05ha066
ELM 10
Locations - MA
Greater Springfield
Reliability Project
ELM 12
54/16
Date: April 2008
NJ
NY
CT
VT
MA
RI
NH
ME
Map Location
HWICK
ESTFIELD
Suffield
AGAWAM
Enfield
Somers
LONGMEADOW
HAMPDEN
WILBRAHAM
WEST SPRINGFIELD
SPRINGFIELD
Index Map
Stafford
54/15
0
100
GSRP ROW
200
Feet
ELM 37
1:1200 1" = 100'
Wetland Line
Watercourse
Wetland Area
EAST
LONGMEADOW
w05ha067
ELM 38
ELM 36
54/14
ELM 4
ELM 3
ELM 2
ELM 1
w05ha068
ELM 9
ELM 31
ELM 32
Locations - MA
Greater Springfield
Reliability Project
w05ha069
ELM 7 ELM 8
ELM 6
ELM 5
83
m
er
s
Ro
ad
Date: April 2008
So
Northeast
Utilities System
Figure 5. Ludlow Rare Species Survey Locus Map.
13
November 2008
EH 285
PH 911
SURVEY EXTENT
EH 493
PH 1142
k
j
k
j
EH 490
MA
PH 1149
QUADRANGLE LUDLOW,
MASSACHUSETTS
Legend
Survey Extents
k
j
ROW Lines
Town Boundary
0
1,000
2,000
4,000
Feet
É
J:\Water\ProjectFiles\P10\01131\GSRP_RareSpecies\GIS\MXD\Fig5_Ludlow.mxd
Survey Extents - Ludlow,
Massachusetts
SCALE
DATE
PROJECT NO.
1:24000
08/08
01131-002
k
j
Figure Number
5
Northeast
Utilities System
Figure 6. Ludlow Trapping Locations.
14
November 2008
L-37
L-36
W
02
H
A0
41
W02HA041
L-34
L-33
L-35
L-32
L-30
L-31
L-7 L-8
L-29
0
HA
02
W
38
L-20
W02
HA0
37
W02
HA0
4
0
W02HA039
L-13
Index Map
SOUTH HADLEY
HOLYOKE
L-16
L-11
L-9
L-15
L-14
L-12
Centerline
Ambystoma Survey
Wetland Line
ROW Boundary
Salamander Trap Sites
Water Course
Greater Springfield
Reliability Project
LUDLOW
Ambystoma Survey Areas
CHICOPEE
WEST SPRINGFIELD
SPRINGFIELD
WILBRAHAM
0
100
1 inch equals 100 feet
200
300
400
Feet
Figure 6A
Date: March 2008
Y:\Projects\NorthEast_Utilities\GSRP\MXD\Survey_Figures\Salamander_Survey_MA\Ambystoma_Survey.mxd
L-10 L-18
L-17
L-7 L-8
L-29
L-4
L-3 L-6
W0 2
A0
37
L-5
37
02
H
W0 2
HA 0
38
HA 0
2H
A0
39
L-10 L-18
L-17
A 037
W0 2
L-1
37
W0
W
L-2
HA 0
W0
2H
A0
W0 2 H
A 037
37
s02ha037
Index Map
SOUTH HADLEY
HOLYOKE
Centerline
Ambystoma Survey
Wetland Line
ROW Boundary
Salamander Trap Sites
Water Course
Greater Springfield
Reliability Project
LUDLOW
Ambystoma Survey Areas
CHICOPEE
WEST SPRINGFIELD
SPRINGFIELD
WILBRAHAM
0
100
1 inch equals 100 feet
200
300
400
Feet
L-12
Figure 6B
Date: March 2008
Y:\Projects\NorthEast_Utilities\GSRP\MXD\Survey_Figures\Salamander_Survey_MA\Ambystoma_Survey.mxd
W0 2 H
L-13
Northeast
Utilities System
Figure 7. Wilbraham Rare Species Survey Locus Map.
15
November 2008
EH 309
SURVEY EXTENT
EH 756
PH 167
EH 400
PH 1053
k
j
k
j
MA
QUADRANGLE HAMDEN,
MASSACHUSETTS
Legend
Survey Extents
k
j
ROW Lines
Town Boundary
0
1,000
2,000
4,000
Feet
É
Survey Extents - Wilbraham,
Massachusetts
SCALE
DATE
PROJECT NO.
1:24000
08/08
01131-002
J:\Water\ProjectFiles\P10\01131\GSRP_RareSpecies\GIS\MXD\Fig7_Wilbraham.mxd
Figure Number
7
Northeast
Utilities System
Figure 8. Wilbraham Trapping Locations.
16
November 2008
W 95
W 94
W 63
W 93
W 92
w07ha023
W 62
44061
44060
23151
w07ha025
44059
23152
23153
W5
W3
W 11
W2
W 10
w07ha024
Ti n
am
kh
W9
Ro
ad
NH
W7
Index Map
ME
WILBRAHAM
MA
NY
SPRINGFIELD
ESTFIELD
CT
RI
AGAWAM
HWICK
WEST SPRINGFIELD
Existing Structures
Wetland Line
Watercourse
Wetland Area
Greater Springfield
Reliability Project
GSRP ROW
Locations - MA
HAMPDEN
LONGMEADOW
0
Somers
NJ
W8
W6
Map Location
VT
W1
Suffield
Enfield
Stafford
100
200
Feet
1:1200 1" = 100'
Figure 8A
Date: April 2008
W4
m
Tinkha
w 101
w 39
w 46
w 38
w07ha030
W 96
W 19
w 40
W 20
W 77
w 45
w 44
w 43
w 42
w 34
W 83
W 65
W 66
W 67
44062
W 99
w 41
w 33
W 64
W 97
44063
W 68
W 82
W 84
Road
w 89
w 102
w 88
W 21
W 18
w07ha026
23149
W 32
23150
W 17
w 33
W 22
W 98
W 74 W 100
W 16
W 30
w 90
W 13
W 36
W 86
A LATERALE
EGG 1
W 37
W 27
W 29
w07ha029
W 25
W 76
W 26
W 28
W 75
w07ha027
W 23
W 24
W 61
A LATERALE
A LATERALE
EGG 4
EGG 3
W 60
W 12
W 87
W 85
W 14
W 15
A LATERALE
EGG 2
W 59
W 58
W 81
W 56
W 57
W 80
W 79
W 78
Map Location
VT
NH
Index Map
ME
WILBRAHAM
MA
NY
SPRINGFIELD
ESTFIELD
CT
RI
AGAWAM
HWICK
WEST SPRINGFIELD
Wetland Line
Watercourse
Wetland Area
Greater Springfield
Reliability Project
GSRP ROW
Locations - MA
HAMPDEN
LONGMEADOW
0
Somers
NJ
Existing Structures
Suffield
Enfield
Stafford
100
200
Feet
1:1200 1" = 100'
Figure 8B
Date: April 2008
W 31
w 91
e
v
Dri
o
riv
er
ni f
Co
e
C
w
ter
en
D
od
w 88
w 101
w 46
44064
44065
44066
w07ha030
w 45
23148
23147
23146
w07ha029
w 50
w 55
w 49
w 48 w 51
w 47
w 53
w 54
w07ha031
w 52
Map Location
VT
NH
Index Map
ME
WILBRAHAM
MA
NY
SPRINGFIELD
ESTFIELD
CT
RI
AGAWAM
HWICK
WEST SPRINGFIELD
Wetland Line
Watercourse
Wetland Area
Greater Springfield
Reliability Project
GSRP ROW
Locations - MA
HAMPDEN
LONGMEADOW
0
Somers
NJ
Existing Structures
Suffield
Enfield
Stafford
100
200
Feet
1:1200 1" = 100'
Figure 8C
Date: April 2008
w 44
44068
C
d
w07ha033
w 72
d
te r w o o
ny
oa
en
St o
lR
Hil
w 105
Dr
iv e
w 71
w 106
w 73
w 70
w 104
w 103
So
u
44067
le
R
oa
d
w 69
23145
w 50
w 49
w07ha031
Map Location
VT
NH
Index Map
ME
WILBRAHAM
MA
NY
SPRINGFIELD
ESTFIELD
CT
RI
AGAWAM
HWICK
WEST SPRINGFIELD
Wetland Line
Watercourse
Wetland Area
Greater Springfield
Reliability Project
GSRP ROW
Locations - MA
HAMPDEN
LONGMEADOW
0
Somers
NJ
Existing Structures
Suffield
Enfield
Stafford
100
200
Feet
1:1200 1" = 100'
Figure 8D
Date: April 2008
w07ha032
23144
Northeast
Utilities System
Appendix A
NHESP Correspondence
November 2008
From: Marold, Misty-Anne (FWE) [mailto:[email protected]]
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2008 4:14 PM
To: Cameron, David
Cc: OSullivan, Tim; Veinotte, Amanda; Marold, Misty-Anne (FWE)
Subject: RE: GSRP Salamanders
RE: NHESP 07-22321, Greater Springfield Expansion
Hi David,
The protocol sent to our office on 3/11/08 is approved with the following amendments:
1) Funnel traps need to remain in place and be checked daily from now through the end of
the migration period. If you see a downturn in immigrants consistently for several
“classic” movement nights, we can discuss if the trapping can end. Most years,
this means 3-5 weeks of trapping and daily monitoring. Deploying traps for the
proposed 10 days or only to cover the “big night” will not be sufficient even for
simply presence/absence.
2) You will deploy traps in all suitable breeding habitat within the areas indicated on your
Table 1, rather than just in PVPs. This is especially important for Blue-spots who
will consistently breed in other types of wetlands.
3) Given the constraints imposed associated with working in the ROW, if there are
any wetlands that you can not sample or feel can not sample effectively and are suitable
breeding habitat, you’ll GPS all those in and send to me. We’ll see if we can provide
some staff time to fulfill the gap in survey.
4) You’ll send a collection permit form and fee asap. You can take this email as written
authorization to be in possession of all state-listed vertebrates in any area along
the entire ROW under review. You should get your traps deployed as soon as
possible.
5) When taking id photos, please be sure to get a photo of the side (ie, “lateral line”
area if they were fish) and include Snout-vent measurements.
We are always looking for good photos of trapping methods and species in the field for
talks and training session we conduct. We’ll happily give you/your company credit for
any photos. If you’d like to provide these (no obligation!), please just send a CD of
images and a text-file with the name/company you’d like to give credit to with your
field report.
Best, Misty-Anne
Misty-Anne R. Marold
Endangered Species Review Biologist
Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program
1 Rabbit Hill Road
Route 135, North Drive
Westborough, MA 01581
Direct: 508-389-6356
Fax: 508-389-7891
Gen'l: 508-389-6300
Northeast
Utilities System
Appendix B
Example Field Data Collection Sheet
November 2008
Date:
Time:
Air Temp:
Water Temp:
Wetland Numbers:
Observers:
Wetland
ID #
NOTES:
Trap
#
Species
Wind Speed:
Cloud Cover:
Amphibian Chorus: Y / N
Species:
SVL
Wetland
ID
Trap
#
Species
SVL
Northeast
Utilities System
Appendix C
Rare Animal Observation Forms
November 2008
Please submit field forms, a copy of a USGS map, and all
supporting documentation to:
Data Manager
Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program
Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife
Nor th, Dr ive, Route 135, Westborough MA 01581
(508) 389-6360
Rare Animal Observation Form
Jefferson Complex, Ambystoma laterale/jeffersonianum
Species name (scientific or common): ________________________________________________________________
03/20/08 through 04/04/08
Date and time of observation: ______________________________________________________________________
Trapping program, 104 traps deployed
Amount of time spent surveying area: ________________________________________________________________
Location Information
Hampden
Wilbraham
Town: __________________________
County: ________________________
Waterbody: ______________________
Please attach a photocopy of the appropriate section of a USGS topo map (or similar map if a topo map is
unavailable). Please carefully mark the site where you observed this rare species. Topo Name: ________________
Describe how to get to the site of the observation using obvious permanent landmarks such as a road intersection
Locations are within the power line easement,
(measuring to at least the nearest 1/10 mile): ___________________________________________________________
2/10 mi. east of Stony Hill Road - north and south of Tinkham Road and
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
1/10 mi. east of Stony Hill Road - south of Soule Road.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
Population Information
23 captures to date; 3 males, 20
10 females
females
Number, age and sex of animals observed: ____________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
Evidence (if any) of breeding activity at this site (e.g. eggs, nests, carrying food to young, copulation): ____________
None to date
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
Behavioral notes (e.g. crossing road, basking): _________________________________________________________
No
Have you observed this species at this site in previous years? If yes, please give details: _________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
Species Identification
Description of the specific characteristics upon which the ID was based (including how age and sex were determined):
Based on spot pattern, it appears that most individuals captured are LJ hybrids.
________________________________________________________________________________________________
None appeared to be from Jeffersonianum.
Males identified as those with swollen venter.
________________________________________________________________________________________________
Photographs or slides taken (Y / N)? If yes, please submit a clear photograph or slide of the animal. Please label the back
of the photograph with the date it was taken, the location, and your signature.
Specimen taken (Y / N)? If yes, where will the specimen be deposited? _______________________________________
Site Information
Description of habitat at site where the species was observed. List dominant vegetation, size of habitat, and information on
the physical environment such as substrate type, hydrology, moisture regime, slope, and aspect. If possible, provide
Habitats range from cattail marsh (trap W1) to
information on the surrounding land use: ________________________________________________________________
palustrine scrub-shrub and palustrine forested wetlands. Also, individuals
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
were captured in a man-made ditch (traps W69, W103, W104). See attached
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
photographs of habitats.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Ambystoma maculatum, Rana sylvatica, Clemmys guttata, variety
Associated species: _________________________________________________________________________________
of caddisflies and divine beetles.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Alteration of ecological processes (e.g. damming, logging, rip-rapping of stream)? If yes, describe: __________________
Habitats are within power line easement.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Observed or potential threats to the species or its habitat at this site (e.g. land clearing, development project)? If yes,
None observed
describe:__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Western Massachusetts Electric Company Easements
Landowner’s name and address, if known: _______________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Additional comments: _______________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Observer Information
Observer:
Scott Egan
978-589-3179
Name: __________________________________________
Phone Number:_________________
2 Technology Park Drive, Westford, MA 01886
Address: ______________________________________________________________________
[email protected]
Email Address: _________________________________________________________________
Affiliation/Qualifications: _________________________________________________________
Form filled out by:
Scott Egan
Name: __________________________________________
Phone Number:_________________
(if different from
Address: ______________________________________________________________________
above)
MS Amphibian Ecology, numerous
Briefly explain your previous field experience with this species: ______________________________________________
volunteer, research, trapping, and drift-fence studies
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
List names and qualifications of other observers (if any): ____________________________________________________
Tatem Braman,MS Amphibian Ecology
Julia Stearns, BS Environmental Sciences
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Certification
I hereby certify under pains and penalties of perjury that the information contained in this report is true and complete to
the best of my knowledge.
04/04/08
Signature: _____________________________________________________________Date: _______________________
Thank you for contributing to the Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program database. Your efforts are valuable
and appreciated.
W1
!
P
W67
W66
W84
!
P
!
P
!
P
P!
P
!
P !
!
P!
!
P
!
PP
!
P
W17
W13
W87
W15
W85
W58
W59
W16
!
P
!
P
W104
!
P
!
P
!
P
0
Date
Trap Wetland_ID Captures
04/01/08 W1
WL 24
1
03/29/08 W13 WL 26
1
03/25/08 W15 WL 26
1
04/01/08 W16 WL 26
2
03/22/08 W17 WL 26
1
04/04/08 W17 WL 26
1
03/26/08 W58 WL 26
1
04/04/08 W59 WL 26
1
03/26/08 W66 WL 26
1
03/20/08 W67 WL 26
1
04/04/08 W84 WL 26
1
04/01/08 W85 WL 26
1
04/04/08 W85 WL 26
1
03/30/08 W87 WL 26
1
04/01/08 W87 WL 26
1
04/04/08 W87 WL 26
1
03/21/08 W23 WL 27
1
04/04/08 W23 WL 27
1
04/01/08 W76 WL 27
1
04/04/08 W103 WL 32
1
04/01/08 W104 WL 32
1
04/04/08 W69 WL 32
1
TOTAL CAPTURES:
23
W103
W69
QUADRANGLE HAMPDEN,
MASSACHUSETTS
MA
350
700
W23
W76
1,400
Feet
É
CAPTURE LOCATIONS
BLUE-SPOTTED SALAMANDERS
(3/20/08 through 4/4/08)
Wilbraham, Massachusetts
SCALE
DATE
PROJECT NO.
1:8400
04/08
01131-002
J:\Water\ProjectFiles\P10\01131\GSRP_NHESP\GSRP\GIS\Amlat_CaptureLocations.mxd
Figure Number
1
View East
4/1/08
Wetland 24 – Trap W1
View East
3/29/08
View South
3/25/08
View South
4/1/08 (Two Separate Individuals)
#2
#1
View South
3/22/08
View South
4/4/08
View East
3/21/08
View East
4/4/08
View West
3/26/08
View West
4/4/08
View West
3/26/08
View West
3/20/08
View South
4/4/08
View West
4/1/08
View West
4/4/08
View East
4/1/08
View East
4/4/08
View South
3/30/08
View South
4/1/08
View South
4/4/08
View South
4/4/08
View North
4/1/08
Please submit field forms, a copy of a USGS map, and all
supporting documentation to:
Data Manager
Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program
Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife
Nor th, Dr ive, Route 135, Westborough MA 01581
(508) 389-6360
Rare Animal Observation Form
Jefferson Complex, Ambystoma laterale/jeffersonianum
Species name (scientific or common): ________________________________________________________________
04/06/08 through 04/11/08
Date and time of observation: ______________________________________________________________________
Trapping program, 104 traps deployed
Amount of time spent surveying area: ________________________________________________________________
Location Information
Hampden
Wilbraham
Town: __________________________
County: ________________________
Waterbody: ______________________
Please attach a photocopy of the appropriate section of a USGS topo map (or similar map if a topo map is
unavailable). Please carefully mark the site where you observed this rare species. Topo Name: ________________
Describe how to get to the site of the observation using obvious permanent landmarks such as a road intersection
Locations are within the power line easement,
(measuring to at least the nearest 1/10 mile): ___________________________________________________________
2/10 mi. east of Stony Hill Road - north and south of Tinkham Road and
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
1/10 mi. east of Stony Hill Road - south of Soule Road.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
Population Information
17 captures (from 4/6/08 - 4/11/08)
Number, age and sex of animals observed: ____________________________________________________________
40 captures total (from 3/20/08 - 4/11/08)
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
Evidence (if any) of breeding activity at this site (e.g. eggs, nests, carrying food to young, copulation): ____________
Jefferson Complex - egg masses found in wetland 026 (vicinity of W85),
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
027 (vicinity of W25).
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
Behavioral notes (e.g. crossing road, basking): _________________________________________________________
No
Have you observed this species at this site in previous years? If yes, please give details: _________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
Species Identification
Description of the specific characteristics upon which the ID was based (including how age and sex were determined):
Based on spot pattern, it appears that most individuals captured are LJ hybrids.
________________________________________________________________________________________________
None appeared to be from Jeffersonianum.
Males identified as those with swollen venter.
________________________________________________________________________________________________
Photographs or slides taken (Y / N)? If yes, please submit a clear photograph or slide of the animal. Please label the back
of the photograph with the date it was taken, the location, and your signature.
Specimen taken (Y / N)? If yes, where will the specimen be deposited? _______________________________________
Site Information
Description of habitat at site where the species was observed. List dominant vegetation, size of habitat, and information on
the physical environment such as substrate type, hydrology, moisture regime, slope, and aspect. If possible, provide
Habitats range from cattail marsh (trap W1) to
information on the surrounding land use: ________________________________________________________________
palustrine scrub-shrub and palustrine forested wetlands. Also, individuals
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
were captured in a man-made ditch/depression (traps W69, W103, W104, and WI05).
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
See attached photographs of habitats.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Ambystoma maculatum, Rana sylvatica, Pseudacris crucifer,
Associated species: _________________________________________________________________________________
Clemmys guttata, variety of caddisflies and diving beetles.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Alteration of ecological processes (e.g. damming, logging, rip-rapping of stream)? If yes, describe: __________________
Habitats are within power line easement.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Observed or potential threats to the species or its habitat at this site (e.g. land clearing, development project)? If yes,
None observed
describe:__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Western Massachusetts Electric Company Easements
Landowner’s name and address, if known: _______________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Additional comments: _______________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Observer Information
Observer:
Scott Egan
978-589-3179
Name: __________________________________________
Phone Number:_________________
2 Technology Park Drive, Westford, MA 01886
Address: ______________________________________________________________________
[email protected]
Email Address: _________________________________________________________________
Form filled out by:
Scott Egan
Name: __________________________________________
Phone Number:_________________
(if different from
Address: ______________________________________________________________________
above)
MS Amphibian Ecology, numerous
Briefly explain your previous field experience with this species: ______________________________________________
volunteer, research, trapping, and drift-fence studies
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
List names and qualifications of other observers (if any): ____________________________________________________
Tatem Braman,MS Amphibian Ecology
Julia Stearns, BS Environmental Sciences
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Certification
I hereby certify under pains and penalties of perjury that the information contained in this report is true and complete to
the best of my knowledge.
04/28/08
Signature: _____________________________________________________________Date: _______________________
Thank you for contributing to the Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program database. Your efforts are valuable
and appreciated.
!!
"
!!
!
""
"
"
!
!
!
!
!
0
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
6
4
3
2
1
250
MA
500
!
!!
!
!
!
!
!
!
W76
W25
W60
W59
Other Trap Locations
!
"
W58
W85
W15
Feet
1,000
É
QUADRANGLE HAMPDEN,
MASSACHUSETTS
Number of Individuals Captured
Legend
W69
W103
J:\Water\ProjectFiles\P10\01131\GSRP_NHESP\GSRP\GIS\Amlat_CaptureLocations_2.mxd
W105
W104
!
!
!
!
!!!!!
!
!
!
! !
!
!!
"
"
"!
W87
"
!
!
!
W13
!
! !
"
"
!
"
"
"
!
"
" ""!"
!
!
!"
!
"
"
!
!
!
"
! !
!!!
!!
!
!!
"
!!
!
!
! ! !!
! ! !
!
!!
!
!
!
! ! !! !! !
W23
W74
W16
W17
W18
W84
W66
W67
!
!
!
!
!
!!
!
!
!
!
!
!!
Trap
W1
W103
W104
W105
W13
W13
W15
W15
W16
W17
W17
W18
W23
W23
W23
W23
W25
W58
W59
W60
W66
W67
W69
W74
W76
W84
W84
W84
W85
W85
W85
W87
W87
W87
W87
1:8400
SCALE
04/08
DATE
01131-002
1
Figure Number
Wetland_ID Captures
WL24
1
WL32
1
WL32
1
WL33
1
WL26
1
WL26
1
WL26
1
WL26
2
WL26
2
WL26
1
WL26
1
WL26
1
WL27
1
WL27
1
WL27
3
WL27
1
WL27
2
WL26
1
WL26
1
WL26
1
WL26
1
WL26
1
WL32
1
WL26
1
WL27
1
WL26
1
WL26
1
WL26
1
WL26
1
WL26
1
WL26
1
WL26
1
WL26
1
WL26
1
WL26
1
PROJECT NO.
Wilbraham, Massachusetts
Date
04/01/08
04/04/08
04/01/08
04/11/08
03/29/08
04/07/08
03/25/08
04/06/08
04/01/08
03/22/08
04/04/08
04/08/08
03/21/08
04/04/08
04/07/08
04/08/08
04/06/08
03/26/08
04/04/08
04/08/08
03/26/08
03/20/08
04/04/08
04/07/08
04/01/08
04/04/08
04/08/08
04/09/08
04/01/08
04/04/08
04/08/08
03/30/08
04/01/08
04/04/08
04/06/08
CAPTURE LOCATIONS
JEFFERSON COMPLEX SALAMANDERS
(3/20/08 through 4/11/08)
!
! !
!"
W1
View South
#2
#1
View Southeast
#2
#1
#1
View South
4/6/08
View East
4/7/08
NO PICTURES TAKEN
One individual captured
View East
4/7/08
NO PICTURES TAKEN
(3 individuals captured)
View North
4/7/08
View Southwest
4/8/08
View East
4/8/08
View North
4/8/08
View West
4/8/08
View East
4/8/08
View West
4/9/08
View North
4/11/08
NO PICTURES TAKEN
One individual captured

Appendix D: State-Listed Salamander Surveys

Transcription

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