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BOLTON CONSERVATION COMMISSION'S Bolton 1: Aerial and Parcel Map GIS Update During the spring of 2001, the Bolton Open Space Parcel Map was revolutionized using an ArcView GIS program. The project was performed by three University of Hartford students as part of their Senior Projects with the College of Engineering. Mapping data, which had previously been cumbersome to research and view, was melded with the digital map of Bolton in order to create a powerful database. This database allows the town to access important information, create and display high quality maps. In addition to the database, the digitized map was also fused with aerial photos of the town of Bolton. By establishing accurate base map aerial photos with updated parcel map boundaries as an overlay, Bolton's land use commissions can now make the best decisions based on the most accurate data available. The project was favored by many in town, especially Land-Use Department (Town Engineer/Planner & Wetlands Enforcement Officer), Assessor's and Town Clerk's Office, and Land-Use Boards. It fell in line with the Conservation Commission's Mission Statement; "The Bolton Conservation Commission will educate, inspire, and assist individuals, governmental entities and citizen groups in understanding the concepts of sound conservation principles, and will encourage participation in related activities." As a result of the project, many land-use commissions and town employees now have more access to accurate maps and data. The three University of Hartford students learned the functions (nuts and bolts) of a local government and the interrelationship of the physical and technical landscape. Bolton's Town Engineer and Planner assisted with the project as well as the Town Clerk and her staff, the Assessor's Office staff, and the Town Historian. The students also collaborated with the CT DEP, University of Connecticut (MAGIC web site), Conservation Commission's members, Open Space Acquisition & Preservation Committee and Inland Wetlands Commission members. The only problems and constraints were the amount of time allotted to complete the project. As time progressed the project's scope expanded and interest increased. Any funding associated with the project ($500.00) came from a UTRC CARE Grant and was used for a Geographic Information System/ArcView Software training session for commission members and student apprentices. The session was conducted by Professor Leone at the University of Hartford in March. When the project was finally presented, more people understood the integration qualities and query building attributes associated with the user-unfriendly ArcView GIS software. One of the students continues to work on and refine Parcel Map. This summer he's adding picture data to the open space parcels he refined last spring. Bolton 2: Vascular Plant Inventory The purpose of the project was to inventory vascular and herbaceous plants within the 1,400-acre, mostly undeveloped, Bolton Notch/Valley Falls watershed area in Bolton and Vernon. The watershed lies in both towns and Railroad Brook runs through the two and drains in a northerly direction for 4 miles, which makes it somewhat unique. Bolton Notch State Park and Notch Pond lies at the very beginning of the watershed. Both towns have park properties within the watershed (Freja Park in Bolton and Valley Falls in Vernon), and favor permanently preserving their abutting open space parcels. The existing index of open space parcels of both towns clearly indicated that this watershed area was also part of a larger Greenway that was both worthy of preservation and vulnerable to development, hence the need to be included in both town's Plan of Conservation and Development. Both Commissions felt that the study would raise awareness of the uniqueness of the watershed and increase preservation efforts. Since the project was completed preservation efforts have increased within the watershed and connecting greenway. Two years after the project completion, Bolton Notch State Park property at the top of the watershed was expanded by 25 acres, now totaling 95 acres. Section 7-131a of the CT General Statutes states that a "Conservation Commission SHALL conduct research into the utilization and possible utilization of land areas of the municipality." With this enabling legislation in mind, the Bolton Conservation initiated the Vascular Plant Inventory of the Valley Falls/Bolton Notch Watershed project and requested that the Vernon Conservation Commission share in the implementation efforts. Since the watershed lies in both Bolton and Vernon (almost equally) the $500.00 cost to complete the study was shared at 50%. Funding Vernon's half ($250.00) was a temporary problem in Vernon since their commission had no allotted funds. Vernon appealed to the Friends of Valley Falls who funded Vernon's half. The first comprehensive survey of plant life in the 1,400 acre Bolton Notch/Valley Falls watershed included the collection of specimens at least two times per month from May'93 thru October '93. Karen Sexton walked the entire corridor along Railroad Brook north to Valley Falls Pond. She collected and identified plants, and logged the information on a computer. In addition to listing the plant species she found, she included a representative habitat of all the natural communities in the watershed. She listed all the plants in those communities, which included a ridge, a midslope, a lower slope, and wetlands. Additional studies of Breeding Birds, Geology, Groundwater, Soils, Streams, Wetlands, Vernal Pools, Mosses, Mushrooms, Archaeology and Wildlife have been suggested and some have been completed. The written report was compiled and presented to Commissions during a joint meeting in December '93. The Conservation Commission enlisted the support of the abutting town (Vernon), the Bolton Board of Selectmen CT DEP and many other environmental organizations. Sources used for the project were Gray's Manual of Botany by Merritt Lyndon Fernald published 1950 and the USGS topographic map of the Rockville, Connecticut, quadrangle. The assistant to the Vernon town planner, David Rechell was a tremendous help in coordinating the initial stages of the project; he also designed a very helpful topographic watershed overlay map. Help with the project came from the CT DEP, The Nature Conservancy, CT Botanical Society, Friends of Valley Falls and the Vernon Land Trust (now Northern CT Land Trust). One concern was how any endangered, threatened species or species with special concern would be protected after identified and would the collection of the specimen harm the species or plant community. Karen Sexton the plant collector had to get permission from the CT DEP to collect specimens on state owned property. Bolton 3: Groundwater Resource Inventory When we pour our cup of coffee in the morning here in Bolton, we ask where does the water come from? Potable water is a precious commodity we sometimes take for granted. We can't live without it, so why not work to preserve it. By the time Earth Day '95 was observed nationally and in Bolton, the Conservation Commission was well prepared to tell residents just about everything there was to know about their drinking water. This Inventory was authorized by the Bolton Conservation Commission and approved by the Town of Bolton's Board of Selectmen. The purpose of project was to inventory residential wells and other water supply sources, compile geological and groundwater resource information, and any supplementary data that applies. It began in November '94 and was completed and presented, at a Conservation Commission meeting, and as part of the 1995 Bolton Earth Day Celebration. The Commission obtained expertise from Mark Busa, Structural Geologist, Amston, CT and William Penn, Hydrogeologist. Andover, CT. This Groundwater Resource Inventory met statutory requirements as stated in 17-131a of the CT General State Statutes allowing Conservation Commissions to conduct research into the utilization and potential utilization of land areas within its municipality. The finished product now serves as planning tool for all Land-use Commissions and could prove valuable to someone considering building a golf course or undertaking a farm operation that requires irrigation. Studies such as these prove useful to land-use regulators, such as the planning commission and zoning commission, when they face decisions on whether to maintain land as open space or to permit development. Total cost was $500.00, funded by the Conservation Commission. Busa and Penn reviewed data on the town's groundwater available at state and federal agencies. Then they verified data in the field by surveying rock outcropings and other geological features. They used a computer program and electronic maps provided by the state CT Department of Environmental Protection to develop a detailed map of groundwater in Bolton. Drawing on records from the DEP, the U.S. Geological Survey and well completion reports kept by the town, they produced high-and low-volume aquifer maps in AUTOCAD. Other AUTOCAD maps included a base topographic map with overlays showing contaminated sites, community wells, groundwater quality, glacial drift boundaries and thickness, major and subdivision drainage basins, depth to bedrock, wetland boundaries, bedrock geology and trails. Bolton 4: Breeding Landbird Survey Bolton Breeding Landbird Survey The purpose of the study was to determine the species diversity and relative abundance of the breeding landbirds of Freja Park and the surrounding Bolton Notch watershed area. The Bolton Conservation Commission retained Patrick Comins to do the entire project in 1999. Quality nesting habitats for neotropical migrant landbirds are important to the continued survival of this group of birds. Forest fragmentation and development has caused declines in the numbers of some species in this group. In order to preserve these birds for future generations, important breeding, migratory stopover and wintering habitats must be identified. This survey aimed to determine the importance of this property to this group of birds in the nesting season. The survey transect can be thought of as a snapshot of the breeding landbirds of the entire watershed area. Similar concentrations of the same species can be expected for the entire watershed area since habitat is generally similar across the undeveloped corridor. Fifty-five species were recorded in the course of the surveys. Of these, fifty-one are likely nesting species and four are probably non-nesting visitors or migrants. An additional fourteen species were not recorded on the survey, but are likely to occur there in the nesting season. Another twenty-nine have a reasonable possibility of occurring in the nesting season from time to time or could be attracted to the area. Fifty-one species could possibly occur in the nesting season, but would be unlikely. Two Connecticut State Species of Special Concern were recorded; six species listed as National Audubon Society Watch List High Conservation Priority species in Connecticut were recorded, three of which are listed as moderate priority species at the national level; an additional six that are not listed as watch list species are listed by Partners in Flight as High Conservation Priority Species in Connecticut; additionally 14 species that are uncommon nesters in the Hartford Area were recorded. Mr. Comins also included conservation management suggestions for properties within the Bolton Notch watershed area and detailed nesting box proposals for over 17 species of birds. Bolton 5: First Annual Town-wide Photo Contest This summer, residents exploring Bolton's open spaces were asked to pack their camera and film as the Conservation Commission sponsored its First Annual Town-wide Photo Contest. Residents will have an opportunity to show in detail, why they love their scenic and rural town. Two categories were chosen: 1) "Historical Landscapes and Landmarks" and 2) "The Beauty of Open Space and Nature." Conservation Commission judges will look for sharp focus, good exposure, balanced composition and appropriate subjects. The three best photos in each category will be displayed at the Bentley Memorial Library, posted on the town hall bulletin board and published on the Bolton Community News web site (http://www.boltonnews.org). This project contributes to one of the commission's objective of linking geo- referenced high quality photographs to an updated ArcView Open Space Parcel Map. Bolton 6: Vernal Pool Identification & Inventory Study During 1998, at the request of the Bolton Conservation Commission and the approval of the Board of Selectmen, Edward Pawlak, a professional wetland scientist conducted a Town-wide Vernal Pool Identification & Inventory Study. Pawlak identified 41 potential vernal pools ("PVP's") through photo interpretation with a mirror stereoscope, which provide a three-dimensional perspective. PVP's are also identified in the field based on topography, hydrology and apparent wetness. A previous 1996 study within town parks identified 10 PVP's, and also made use of updated aerial photographs that demonstrate the characteristic signature that vernal pools leave. Just as important to the '96 study was the follow-up '97 study that provided new information and incorporated a significant field inspection of all public PVP's based on the presence of eggs or larvae of at least one obligate vernal pool species. Mr. Pawlak identified a classic vernal pool located in Bolton Notch State Park. This vernal pool is a unique hilltop vernal pool with no perennial inlet or outlet. It is bordered by steep wooded slopes that sharply define its small watershed. It is truly a valuable resource in need of protection. A vernal pool is a wetland that is typically small, isolated and often inundated with shallow water during spring and early summer. These biologically rich areas serve as important breeding sites for many frogs, salamanders, and other species, and provide habitat for numerous invertebrates. Because vernal pools are small, isolated and dry for much of the year they are occasionally not identified or delineated as wetlands, and are often assumed to have little or no ecological value. A solution to this problem is to identify vernal pool wetlands on a town-wide basis before they are inadvertently destroyed and become the subject of an Inland Wetlands application. This can avoid costly delays for applicants, allow developers an opportunity to design environmentally sensitive site plans, and provide regulatory agencies with information sufficient to review an application that involves a vernal pool. Bolton 7: Big Tree Contest and Compost Pile Contest The BCC initiated a town-wide Big Tree Contest and a Compost Pile Contest. This first-of-a-kind contest was kicked-off on Arbor Day (Big Tree) and Earth Day (Compost) 1997 and ran until June 1998. The Commission used the American Forestry Association's tree measurement system, which produces a single number, called AFA points. These points include the circumference, plus height, plus average spread divided by 4. Two categories were offered: "Hardwood" and "Evergreen" category. The winners received many prizes donated by local businesses and residents. The only cost incurred, was for the purchase of a clinometer that was used to accurately measure the height of trees. Ed Richardson of Glastonbury, a contributing editor of "Connecticut's Notable Trees" was a tremendous help in instructing commission members the AFA system. In keeping with the tradition of the Big Tree contest, to record some of Bolton's largest living natural resources, the commission will continue to catalog big trees in town. The winner of the Compost Pile Contest received the highest possible rating of 100 points: 25 for texture, 25 for color (dark), 25 for odor (none), and 25 for design. One of the key elements of the success of this initiative was the opportunity to educate residents on the benefits of recycling their compostable trash. Since Bolton has no curbside leaf collection the Commission began promoting the use and sale of the Earth Machine. The Earth Machine (EM) is unique because it allows non-odiferous composting in a small, defined area, near your kitchen door, thereby eliminating long muddy walks to the back corner of your property. EM is made from recycled materials, and the black color of the composter absorbs sunlight allowing some composting to occur even during winter months. It is also pest-proof, and if the green/brown layering technique is used, insect and odor free! More and more Earth Machines (EM) are finding their way into Bolton backyards thanks to low cost sales by the Commission (which receives a discount when purchasing in lots of twenty). At the end of the fiscal year the Commission was working on its fourth order of twenty units. The Commission notes three major benefits from composting: 1. Free fertilizer. 2. Reduces curbside waste volume. 3. Conserves and protects natural resources. Additional information on Composting may obtained by contacting the CT DEP. Bolton 8: Conservation Commission Restores Town Park Freja Park (pronounced Fray-ya) is a 21-acre, heavily wooded town-owned area located in the northern section of Bolton. Freja Park's property abuts the old Manchester Drive-In, Bolton Notch Pond, Bolton Notch State Park, and a DEP managed linear Greenway, formerly a rail line. This Greenway, like most, is a corridor of protected, contiguos parcels of undeveloped open space managed for conservation and recreational purposes. Freja Park also serves as a gateway for the 1,4000-acre Bolton Notch/Valley Falls watershed area and the scenic Connecticut blue-blazed Shenipsit Trail that parallels Railroad Brook. This brook has "Class A" surface waters and is unique, in that only a few other brooks in the state flow in its northerly direction. With the recommendation of the Bolton Conservation Commission, the town acquired the property in 1968. Unfortunately, over the years the park suffered from both abuse and neglect. Deep gullies and ruts, caused in part from the illegal use of all-terrain vehicles, dirt-bikes and other motorized vehicles were found on most of the trails. To compound matters, the gullied trails were impacted by concentrated, high-energy flows of surface runoff that increased downcutting and transported soils and sediments into the park's streams. This ultimately discharged into either Bolton Notch Pond or Railroad Brook. Little had been done to correct the erosion problem, resulting in a deterioration of the trail system and the pond's and streams biological integrity due to silting and sediment deposition. Thirty years later, in March of 1998, the Commission submitted a detailed Freja Park Trail Improvement Plan with a cost of $1,470.00, which was approved with the '98 Budget Referendum. Subsequent to the Referendum approval and the implementation of a Freja Park Trail Improvement Sub-committee, the Commission received a $3,000.00 Sam's Club Environmental Clean Air and Clean Water grant to further enhance the restoration. Since the Commission began its restoration effort the Board of Selectmen have been very supportive and the Town's Parks and Buildings Department have installed numerous check dams in the gullied trails to slow down the erosion process. The Commission has held numerous Earth Day Clean-up events since 1990. In 1994, over 40 volunteers participated by cleaning 7-tons of trash, and in 1998 over 35 Boy Scouts, Conservation Commission members, families and friends removed over two tons of litter from the park. Other restoration efforts included closing strategically located sensitive sections of switchback trails and planting desirable native species that will aid in stabilizing erosion and enhancing wildlife habitat. Currently, folks from Project Green (an alternative incarceration program) have installed 10 cedar water-bars and plan on spreading woodchips donated by ConnDOT to the entire trail surface. This Trail Improvement Project, in keeping with the Commission's interest in the park, was intended to help enhance access, improve recreational walkways, maintain wildlife habitat and restore the environmental quality and improve biological integrity.
Bolton 9: Rose Farm Saved From Development In April of '99, as part of the Annual Earth Day Celebration the Conservation Commission hosted a guided walking tour of the Rose Farm with guest speakers including Archaeologists, Biologists, Historians and Herbalists. Shortly thereafter, in May the Commission recommended that the Town of Bolton immediately acquire the Rose Farm property due to its outstanding natural and historic features and in July of '99 recommended the open fields portion of the property be managed as grassland habitat. In October the Commission's support was sought concerning an application for CT DEP Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Grant to purchase the Rose Farm. The Commission responded swiftly and favorably, and on October 24, over 40 people attended a Commission organized "Greenway Foliage Walk" along the Hop River State Park Trail from the 21-acre Freja Park to the 100-acre Rose Farm. Colored maps of the Freja Park Trail Improvement Project were distributed, as well as Parcel maps of the Hop River State Trail showing its linkage to the Rose Farm. The Town Historian and an Open Space Acquisition and Preservation Committee member gave brief talks about the importance of preserving the Rose Farm. In November '99 the Commission volunteered many hours, and worked with the Town Attorney and the Open Space Committee in preparing the application for the CT DEP Open Space Grant. Our Student Apprentice was very helpful in designing GIS maps of the Rose Farm. A Commission member and an ornithologist conducted a very timely Avi-fauna Natural Resource Inventory on the Farm. Both the GIS maps and the Avi-fauna inventory results were included as "Exhibits" with the grant application. In February 2000, the CT DEP awarded the Town of Bolton with an Open Space Grant Award in the amount of $389,302.20 that was used toward the purchase of the 88-acre portion of the Rose Farm. Bolton 10: Commission Assists Eagle Scout Candidate An Eagle Scout candidate worked for a year with members of the Conservation Commission in planning and constructing Bolton Notch State Park's first official hiking trail. To complete his Eagle Scout project he consulted with CT DEP Parks Supervisors and trail volunteers from the CT Forest and Parks Association. With help from the Commission, he was able seek advice from a wetlands professional scientist and learned how to locate his trail away from sensitive and overused areas. The trail is designed in a loop configuration climbing up along the ridgeline of the park. Following a recommendation from the Town Historian the trail was named the Mohegan Trail, the original inhabitants of the area. It is blazed with yellow disks and is approximately two miles in length. The Bolton Conservation Commission appreciates the efforts of such committed individuals who strive to enhance the natural beauty of the town and preserve outstanding scenic features for present and future generations. |
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