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Master Plan
Ash Creek Conservation Association, Inc.
“Despite all the
    benefits provided
    by wetlands, the
   United States loses
   about 60,000 acres
       each year.”
                         United States Environmental Protection Agency

Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                            2
ASH CREEK ESTUARY MASTER PLAN
                                ASH CREEK CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION, INC. ∙ DECEMBER 2012




                                     THE IMAGES AND INFORMATION CONTAINED HERE ARE
                                     MASTER PLAN CONCEPTS AND ARE INTENDED FOR GENERAL
                                     REFERENCE PURPOSES ONLY; THEY DO NOT REPRESENT
                                     AN APPROVED DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR THE ESTUARY OR
                                     ANY PART THEREOF AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. THIS
                                     MATERIAL, AND THE INFORMATION CONTAIND HERE, DOES
                                     NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OR COMMITMENT TO PURCHASE,
                                     MODIFY, OR SELL PROPERTY.



3
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                          3
PRESENTATION OVERVIEW

1. Introduction

2. Methodology

3. Study Area A: Upper Creek
	
4. Study Area B: Lower Creek

5. Study Area C: Tidal Inlet

6. Study Area D:Turney Creek

7. Study Area E: Riverside Creek

8. Recommendations




WRITTEN BY ONE NATURE AND STEVEN DANZER,
PHD & ASSOCIATES.

FUNDING SUPPORT FROM THE FAIRFIELD COUNTY
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION, AND PRO-BONO
CONTRIBUTIONS FROM THE AUTHORS.

FUNDING SUPPORT ALSO PROVIDED BY THE
WATERSHED ASSISTANCE SMALL GRANTS
PROGRAM, CONDUCTED IN ASSOCIATION WITH
THE CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY &
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION UNDER SECTION
319 OF THE CLEAN WATER ACT. THE SMALL
GRANTS PROGRAM IS ADMINISTERED BY RIVERS
ALLIANCE OF CONNECTICUT.
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan               4
INTRODUCTION


    "Next to                    •	 The goal of this study is to establish a

    tropical                      framework.
  rainforests,                  •	 Ash Creek is a rare example of a
tidal wetlands
 are the most                     relatively healthy urban estuary.

  biologically                  •	 The estuary provides many important
   productive                     ecological services.
  resource in
  the world."                   •	 The estuary is an important part of the

   Connecticut Department         region’s cultural heritage.
  of Energy & Environmental
          Protection            •	 Thank you to FCCF and Rivers Alliance.
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                 5
SITE




                                       INTRODUCTION
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                     6
UPLAND MEADOW
           I - 95
                                                                               MUDFLAT

      BREWSTER                                                                 MARITIME FOREST
         STREET
        BRIDGE                                                                 FRESHWATER WETLAND

     COMBINED                                                                  HIGH MARSH
        SEWER
     OVERFLOW                                                                  LOW MARSH

                                                                               BACKDUNE
      NEW PARK
   (NOT SHOWN)                                                                 FOREDUNE
        PUBLIC                                                                 BEACH
        ACCESS




      FAIRFIELD
        AVENUE
         BRIDGE
                                                                PUBLIC
                                                                ACCESS




                                                                WATERFRONT
        TURNEY                                                  SIDEWALK
         CREEK
     TIDE GATES                                                 OYSTER
                                                                REEF
      RIVERSIDE
          CREEK
                                                                GREAT
        PUBLIC                                                  MARSH
    OPEN SPACE                                                  ISLAND
        BENSON                                                  GROVERS HILL
        MARINA

      ARTIFICIAL                                                WATERFRONT
    PENNINSUAL                                                  SIDEWALK
      TIDE GATE
                                                                CAPOZZI
                                                                PARK
        BARRIER
           SPIT                                                 ST. MARY’S
                                                                BY-THE-SEA
                                                                LINEAR PARK


      JENNINGS
         BEACH




                        EXISTING CONDITIONS
                                        EXISTING CONDITIONS                                         EXISTING HABITAT TYPES
                                                                                                                  EXISTING HABITAT TYPES
                                                                                                                                 INTRODUCTION
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan    Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan                                             Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 7
                                             0   250   500   1,000
                                                                Feet   °                                                  0   250   500   1,000
                                                                                                                                             Feet   °
                                                                                                                                                    N
1934 AERIAL           1990 AERIAL             2010 AERIAL           2010 AERIAL
                                                                                                      INTRODUCTION
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan       Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan              Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 8
                                                0   250   500   1,000
                                                                   Feet   °                   0   250   500   1,000
                                                                                                                 Feet   °
t




                            1895 USGS MAP       1895 USGS MAP              1997 USGS MAP       1997 INTRODUCTION
                                                                                                     USGS MAP
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan    Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan               Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 9
                                             0   250   500   1,000
                                                                Feet   °                    0   250   500   1,000
                                                                                                               Feet   °
1880’S WETLANDS
                                1880’s WETLAND AND COASTLINE                1990 WETLANDS     1990’s WETLAND
                                                                                                     INTRODUCTION
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan     Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan               Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 10
                                              0   250   500   1,000
                                                                 Feet   °                    0   250   500   1,000
                                                                                                                Feet   °
Category 4
                                                                           Category 3
                                                                           Category 2
                                                                           Category 1




                          FEMA FLOOD MAP FLOOD HAZARD MAP
                                    FEMA                                                HURRICANE SURGE MODEL SURGE MODELS
                                                                                                    HURRICANE     INTRODUCTION
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan    Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan                                  Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 11
                                             0   250   500   1,000
                                                                Feet   °                                       0   250   500   1,000
                                                                                                                                  Feet   °
QUALITATIVE ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

                                                                          •	 We performed the majority of our field
                                                                            work in August, 2012.

                        AREA A
                        UPPER
                        CREEK
                                                                          •	 We divided the study area into five
                                                                             geographic units for assessment.


                                                                          •	 The boundary of each unit was
          AREA D
          TURNEY
          CREEK
                                   AREA B
                                   LOWER
                                                                             determined by topography, cultural
                                   CREEK

                                                                             features, and the shape of the estuary.
             AREA E
            RIVERSIDE


                                                                          •	 We visited each unit, made field notes,
              CREEK


                                 AREA C


                                                                             and performed remote desktop analysis
                                  TIDAL
                                  INLET




                                                                            to document significant features.
                                              STUDY AREAS
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan                                                         12

                                            0   250   500   1,000
                                                               Feet   °
                                                                      N
UNIT A. UPPER CREEK




                                1934 AERIAL   2010 AERIAL
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                          13
2010 AERIAL
          Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                      0   250   500   1,000
                                         Feet   °
                                                    UNIT A. UPPER CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                         14
2010 AERIAL
          Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                      0   250   500   1,000
                                         Feet   °
                                                    UNIT A. UPPER CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                         15
2010 AERIAL
          Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                      0   250   500   1,000
                                         Feet   °
                                                    UNIT A. UPPER CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                         16
2010 AERIAL
          Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                      0   250   500   1,000
                                         Feet   °
                                                    UNIT A. UPPER CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                         17
Existing Conditions
                                 •	 Aesthetic
                                 •	 Carbon Storage
                                 •	 Flood Protection
                                 •	 Habitat and Biodiversity
                                 •	 Hydrologic, Biogeochemical, and Ecological
                                    Functions of the Tidal Ecosystem
                                 •	 Recreation
                                 •	 Water Quality

                                Potential Threats
                                 •	   Erosion
                                 •	   Phragmites
                                 •	   Water Quality
                                 •	   Stormwater Outflows
                                 •	   Failed/Stalled Construction
                                 •	   Proposed Bridge Crossing
                                 •	   Potential Ecotoxic Substances
                                 •	   Sea Level Rise




                                                                       UNIT A. UPPER CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                           18
Potential Improvements
                                1.	 Enhance native vegetation throughout the study area.
                                2.	 Monitor progress at Train Station restoration site.
                                3.	 Improve vistas across the study area through planting, placement of benches, and pathway
                                    alignment.
                                4.	 Install aesthetically pleasing dune fencing according along topographic contours;
                                5.	 Improve and create street end access and gathering spaces.
                                6.	 Reclaim upland lots with non-water dependent uses for ecological restoration purposes;
                                7.	 Ensure Pedestrian footbridge becomes aesthetic asset to community.
                                8.	 Promote stormwater capture technologies including bioswales, vegetative buffer strips, rain barrel
                                    use, and permeable paving throughout the drainage area.
                                9.	 Alter street ends to create views of water.
                                10.	 Create custom signage and educational kiosks to be used throughout the
                                     Ash Creek estuary that establish a local feeling respectful of cultural and
                                     ecological conditions.
                                11.	   Encourage the creation of high marsh plants besides Phragmites;
                                12.	   Educate local property owners about the value and importance of native plant species;
                                13.	   Supplemental spot planting and seeding to encourage specific native species wherever possible; and,
                                14.	   Develop forest management plan for forested edges.
                                15.	   Generally encourage the restoration of native plant materials.
                                16.	   Monitor all design and construction activities to reduce use of heavy equipment or building
                                       materials with high carbon footprints.
                                17.	 Use pedestrian footbridge as an opportunity to create and improve habitat;
                                18.	   Discourage Phragmites colonization.
                                19.	   Create green spaces at street ends.
                                20.	   Perform feasibility study to examine options to daylight the creek north of the Old Post Road.
                                21.	   Reclaim land from adjacent low lying areas currently used for non-water dependent purposes.
                                22.	   Convert public and private lawn spaces to native vegetation.
                                23.	   Define public access points and encourage ADA accessibility.
                                24.	   Develop bikeway and pedestrian routes with location of new pedestrian bridge.
                                25.	   Install blinds for bird watchers.
                                26.	   Develop and implement a green infrastructure plan that specifically addresses street ends runoff,
                                       residential properties, and permeable pavement conversion.
                                27.	Map and monitor all outfalls.
                                28.	 Perform regular testing to quantify upstream pollutant contribution.
                                29.	 Coordinate with upstream Rooster River watershed planning efforts to identify specific water
                                     quality improvement projects.

                                                                                                               UNIT A. UPPER CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                                                                   19
UNIT B. LOWER CREEK




                                1934 AERIAL   2010 AERIAL
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                         20
2010 AERIAL
            Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                        0   250   500   1,000
                                           Feet   °




                                                      UNIT B. LOWER CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                           21
2010 AERIAL
            Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                        0   250   500   1,000
                                           Feet   °




                                                      UNIT B. LOWER CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                           22
2010 AERIAL
            Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                        0   250   500   1,000
                                           Feet   °




                                                      UNIT B. LOWER CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                           23
2010 AERIAL
            Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                        0   250   500   1,000
                                           Feet   °




                                                      UNIT B. LOWER CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                           24
Existing Conditions
                                 •	 Aesthetic
                                 •	 Carbon Storage
                                 •	 Flood Protection
                                 •	 Habitat and Biodiversity
                                 •	 Hydrologic, Biogeochemical, and Ecological
                                    Functions of the Tidal Ecosystem
                                 •	 Water Quality
                                 •	 Recreation


                                Potential Threats
                                 •	   CT DEEP Water Quality Assessment
                                 •	   Phragmites
                                 •	   Gillman Street Stormwater Outfalls
                                 •	   Decayed Phragmites
                                 •	   Tide Gates
                                 •	   Buffer Condition on East Side
                                 •	   Rip-Rapped Peninsula
                                 •	   Motorized Watercraft
                                 •	   Waterfront Access from the Peninsula
                                 •	   Sea Level Rise
                                 •	   Dog Use
                                                                         UNIT B. LOWER CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                             25
Potential Improvements
                                1.	 Enhance native vegetation throughout the study area.
                                2.	 Improve vistas across the study area through planting, placement of benches, and pathway
                                    alignment.
                                3.	 Improve existing overlook area on Bridgeport side at the terminus of the promenade.
                                4.	 Work with adjacent property owners to integrate native plants into their landscape design choices.
                                5.	 Work with local stakeholders post-Sandy reconstruction efforts to integrate native plants into
                                    redevelopment plans.
                                6.	 Promote stormwater capture technologies including bioswales, vegetative buffer strips, rain barrel
                                    use, and permeable paving throughout the drainage area.
                                7.	 Create custom signage and educational kiosks to be used throughout the Ash Creek estuary that
                                    establish a local feeling respectful of cultural and ecological conditions.
                                8.	 Improve signage at Fairfield Avenue Bridge.
                                9.	 Identify newest stands of Phragmites for removal.
                                10.	 Encourage the creation of high marsh plants.
                                11.	   Educate local property owners about the value and importance of native plant species.
                                12.	   Supplemental spot planting and seeding to encourage specific native species wherever possible.
                                13.	   Develop forest management plan for forested edges.
                                14.	   Generally encourage the restoration of native plant materials.
                                15.	   Monitor all design and construction activities to reduce use of heavy equipment or building
                                       materials with high carbon footprints.
                                16.	 Create a more robust native plant community along the Bridgeport side.
                                     Phase out all non-native plantings.
                                17.	 Encourage soft edge retrofits for hardened shorelines.
                                18.	 Discourage Phragmites colonization.
                                19.	 Reclaim land from adjacent low lying land currently used for non-water dependent purposes.
                                20.	Convert mown lawn on Bridgeport side walkway to native shrubs and
                                    grasses.
                                21.	 Convert public and private lawn spaces to native vegetation.
                                22.	 Link bikeway and pedestrian routes with other sections of the estuary and Jennings Beach.
                                23.	 Install educational signage and kiosks in high traffic areas.
                                24.	 Develop and implement a green infrastructure plan that specifically addresses street end runoff,
                                     residential properties, and permeable pavement conversion.
                                25.	 Rethink road drainage on Bridgeport side to reduce flooding and runoff contamination.
                                26.	 Identify runoff pollution sources such as fertilizer, pesticide, and other potentially harmful
                                     substances.

                                                                                                             UNIT B. LOWER CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                                                                 26
UNIT C. TIDAL INLET




                                1934 AERIAL                     2010 AERIAL
                                              0   250   500   1,000
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                              27
                                                                 Feet
2010 AERIAL
    Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                     0   250   500   1,000
                                        Feet   °




                                                   UNIT C. TIDAL INLET
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                       28
2010 AERIAL
    Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                     0   250   500   1,000
                                        Feet   °




                                                   UNIT C. TIDAL INLET
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                       29
2010 AERIAL
    Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                     0   250   500   1,000
                                        Feet   °




                                                   UNIT C. TIDAL INLET
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                        30
2010 AERIAL
    Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                     0   250   500   1,000
                                        Feet   °




                                                   UNIT C. TIDAL INLET
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                       31
Existing Conditions
                                 •	 Aesthetic
                                 •	 Carbon Storage
                                 •	 Flood Protection
                                 •	 Habitat and Biodiversity
                                 •	 Hydrologic, Biogeochemical, and Ecological
                                    Functions of the Tidal Ecosystem
                                 •	 Recreation
                                 •	 Water Quality

                                Potential Threats
                                 •	   Erosion/Deposition
                                 •	   Invasive Species
                                 •	   Dog Use
                                 •	   Storm Events
                                 •	   Jurisdictional Ovelap
                                 •	   Motorized watercraft
                                 •	   Sea Level Rise
                                 •	   Overuse



                                                                         UNIT C. TIDAL INLET
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                             32
Potential Improvements
                                1.	 Enhance native vegetation throughout the study area.
                                2.	 Improve vistas across the lower creek and the sound through planting, placement of benches, and
                                    pathway alignment.
                                3.	 Install aesthetically pleasing dune fencing according along topographic contours.
                                4.	 Improve gathering spaces through use of permeable pavers, fill placement, and historically
                                    appropriate site furnishing.
                                5.	 Create custom signage and educational kiosks to be used throughout the Ash Creek estuary to
                                    establish a local feeling respectful of cultural and ecological conditions.
                                6.	 Protect large sections of the barrier spit from dogs and foot traffic.
                                7.	 Supplemental spot planting to encourage specific species.
                                8.	 Develop forest management plan for Capozzi Park. Thin trees and control
                                    invasive species to create greater plant diversity.
                                9.	 Generally encourage the restoration of native plant materials.
                                10.	 Monitor all design and construction activities to reduce use of heavy equipment or building
                                     materials with high carbon footprints.
                                11.	 Manage the Bird Sanctuary to promote more standing and ground sequestered biomass. Expand
                                     the forest farther west.
                                12.	 Convert all lawn spaces to native coastal vegetation.
                                13.	 Restore tidal salt marsh and riparian zones on the northeast side of the barrier spit.
                                14.	 Bring back coastal meadow and shrub habitat on the southwest edge of the
                                     Bird Sanctuary.
                                15.	 Convert mown lawn on promenade walkway to native shrubs and grasses.
                                16.	 Better define access points to the barrier spit to avoid trampling native
                                     plants.
                                17.	 Install bike racks.
                                18.	 Construct new pathways through the Bird Sanctuary to counter the dominance of the road on
                                     visitor experience and to provide access to additional environmental education.
                                19.	 Temporary toilets should be removed, added, better maintained, or replaced with permanent
                                     bathrooms.
                                20.	 Design and install a defined bikeway and sidewalk system that would create a safer and more
                                     accessible experience.




                                                                                                            UNIT C. TIDAL INLET
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                                                                33
UNIT D. TURNEY CREEK




                                1934 AERIAL   2010 AERIAL
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                         34
2010 AERIAL
                                Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                                            0   250   500   1,000
                                                               Feet   °



                                                                          UNIT D. TURNEY CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                               35
2010 AERIAL
                                Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                                            0   250   500   1,000
                                                               Feet   °



                                                                          UNIT D. TURNEY CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                                36
2010 AERIAL
                                Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                                            0   250   500   1,000
                                                               Feet   °




                                                                          UNIT D. TURNEY CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                                37
Existing Conditions
                                 •	 Aesthetic
                                 •	 Carbon Storage
                                 •	 Flood Protection
                                 •	 Habitat and Biodiversity
                                 •	 Hydrologic, Biogeochemical, and Ecological
                                    Functions of the Tidal Ecosystem
                                 •	 Recreation
                                 •	 Saline/Fresh Water Exchange
                                 •	 Water Quality

                                Potential Threats
                                 •	   Erosion/Deposition
                                 •	   Invasive Species
                                 •	   Dog Use
                                 •	   Storm Events
                                 •	   Jurisdictional Ovelap
                                 •	   Motorized watercraft
                                 •	   Sea Level Rise
                                 •	   Overuse


                                                                      UNIT D. TURNEY CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                           38
Potential Improvements
                                1.	 Enhance native vegetation throughout the study area.
                                2.	 Improve vistas across the study area through planting, placement of benches, and pathway
                                    alignment.
                                3.	 Work with adjacent property owners to integrate native plants into their landscape design choices.
                                4.	 Improve and create street end access and gathering spaces.
                                5.	 Examine potential for removing fill form adjacent land to increase tidal marsh habitat, perhaps in
                                    coordination with flood mitigation efforts.
                                6.	 Work with Fairfield post-Sandy reconstruction efforts to integrate native plants into redevelopment
                                    plans.
                                7.	 Promote stormwater capture technologies including bioswales, vegetative
                                    buffer strips, rain barrel use, and permeable paving throughout the drainage
                                    area.
                                8.	 Integrate restoration with Hurricane Sandy recovery efforts.
                                9.	 Alter street ends to create views of water.
                                10.	 Create custom signage and educational kiosks to be used throughout the Ash Creek estuary that
                                     establish a local feeling respectful of cultural and ecological conditions.
                                11.	 Encourage the creation of high marsh plant.
                                12.	 Educate local property owners about the value and importance of native plant species.
                                13.	 Supplemental spot planting and seeding to encourage specific native species wherever possible; and,
                                14.	 Develop forest management plan for forested edges.
                                15.	 Improve tidal gates to allow more tidal flushing, thereby reducing methane
                                     and nitrous oxide releases (both greenhouse gases).
                                16.	 Create more wetlands.
                                17.	 Generally encourage the restoration of native plant materials.
                                18.	 Monitor all design and construction activities to reduce use of heavy equipment or building
                                     materials with high carbon footprints.
                                19.	 Increase intertidal marsh areas through reclaiming vacant propterties.
                                20.	 Discourage Phragmites colonization.
                                21.	 Create green spaces at the end of street ends.
                                22.	 Reclaim land from adjacent low lying land currently used for non-water dependent purposes.




                                                                                                         UNIT D. TURNEY CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                                                               39
UNIT E. RIVERSIDE CREEK




                                                               0    250   500    1,000
                                                                                    Feet

                                1934 AERIAL                        2010 AERIAL
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                         1934 AERIAL                           40


                                              Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
2010 AERIAL
                    Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                                0   250   500   1,000
                                                   Feet   °




                                                              UNIT E. RIVERSIDE CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                      41
2010 AERIAL
                    Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                                0   250   500   1,000
                                                   Feet   °




                                                              UNIT E. RIVERSIDE CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                       42
2010 AERIAL
                    Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
                                0   250   500   1,000
                                                   Feet   °




                                                              UNIT E. RIVERSIDE CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                      43
Existing Conditions
                                 •	 Aesthetic
                                 •	 Carbon Storage
                                 •	 Flood Protection
                                 •	 Habitat and Biodiversity
                                 •	 Hydrologic, Biogeochemical, and Ecological
                                    Functions of the Tidal Ecosystem
                                 •	 Recreation
                                 •	 Water Quality

                                Potential Threats
                                 •	   Erosion/Deposition
                                 •	   Invasive species
                                 •	   Upland Buffer
                                 •	   Fire
                                 •	   Impervious Surfaces
                                 •	   Marina Boat Basin
                                 •	   CT DEEP Water Quality assessment
                                 •	   Sea level rise



                                                                    UNIT E. RIVERSIDE CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                            44

                                                    2010 AERIAL
Potential Improvements
                                1.	   Enhance native vegetation throughout the study area.
                                2.	   Improve entryway to public open space at the Marina.
                                3.	   The bench at the end of the peninsula faces the backside of the sign and should be re-oriented. In general,
                                      vistas should be improved across the study area through planting, placement of benches, and pathway
                                      alignment.
                                4.	   Work with adjacent property owners to integrate native plants into their landscape design choices.
                                5.	   Improve and create street end access and gathering spaces.
                                6.	   Examine potential for removing fill form adjacent land to increase tidal marsh habitat, perhaps in coordination
                                      with flood mitigation efforts.
                                7.	   Work with Fairfield post-Sandy reconstruction efforts to integrate native plants into redevelopment plans.
                                8.	   Promote stormwater capture technologies including bioswales, vegetative buffer strips, rain barrel use, and
                                      permeable paving throughout the drainage area.
                                9.	   Integrate restoration with Hurricane Sandy recovery efforts.
                                10.	 Add native vegetation to parking islands near the public open space at the
                                     peninsula.
                                11.	 Alter street ends to create views of water.
                                12.	 Create custom signage and educational kiosks to be used throughout the Ash Creek estuary that establish a
                                     local feeling respectful of cultural and ecological conditions.
                                13.	 Encourage the creation of high marsh plants.
                                14.	 Educate local property owners about the value and importance of native plant species.
                                15.	 Increase salinity in tidal creeks.
                                16.	 Supplemental spot planting and seeding to encourage specific native species wherever possible.
                                17.	 Develop forest management plan for forested edges.
                                18.	 Improve tidal gates to allow more tidal flushing, thereby reducing methane and nitrous oxide releases (both
                                     greenhouse gases).
                                19.	 Create more wetlands.
                                20.	 Generally encourage the restoration of native plant materials.
                                21.	 Monitor all design and construction activities to reduce use of heavy equipment or building materials with high
                                     carbon footprints.
                                22.	 Increase intertidal marsh areas through reclaiming vacant properties.
                                23.	 Discourage Phragmites colonization.
                                24.	 Create green spaces at the end of street ends.
                                25.	 Reclaim land from adjacent low lying land currently used for non-water dependent purposes.
                                26.	 Convert mown lawn on promenade walkway to native shrubs and grasses.
                                27.	 Convert public and private lawn spaces to native vegetation.
                                28.	 Define public access points.
                                29.	Link bikeway and pedestrian routes with other sections of the estuary and
                                    Jennings Beach.
                                30.	 Install educational signage and kiosks in high traffic areas.
                                31.	 Improve ADA access to waterfront views.
                                32.	 Develop and implement a green infrastructure plan that specifically addresses street ends runoff, residential
                                     properties, and permeable pavement conversion.
                                33.	 Study the function and design of all tide gates and culverts.
                                34.	 Identify runoff pollution sources such as fertilizer, pesticide, and other potentially harmful substances.

                                                                                                                UNIT E. RIVERSIDE CREEK
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                                                                        45

                                                                          2010 AERIAL
ONE SYSTEM, MANY PARTS
      NOTES: 1. PROMOTE NATIVE SPECIES, GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE AND ORGANIC
             LANDSCAPE STEWARDSHIP THROUGHOUT ENTIRE DRAINAGE BASIN;                                                      EDUCATIONAL SIGNAGE
                                                                                                    MONITOR AND
                                                                                                    COMPLETE              WALKING/BIKING ROUTE
              2. ALL RECOMEMNDATIONS MADE IN THIS PLAN MUST BE VERIFIED
                                                                                                    ONGOING
              THROUGH FURTHER STUDY, STAKEHOLDER COORDINATION, AND
                                                                                                    RESTORATION
              DESIGN DEVELOPMENT PRIOR TO IMPLIMENTATION; AND,
                                                                                                    PROJECT
              3. NEW TRAIN STATION DEVELOPMENT IS NOT SHOWN IN THIS 2010                            STUDY
              AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH.                                                                    COMBINED
                                                                                                    SEWER
                                                                                                    OVERFLOW
                                                                                                                    PEDESTRIAN
                                                                                                                        BRIDGE                                                    CREATE
         USE PLANNED                                                                                REPAIR            LANDING                                                     STREETEND
          PEDESTRIAN                                                                                RIPARIAN                                                                      PARK
          FOOTBRIDGE                                                                                BUFFER AND
           TO RESTORE                                                                               GREEN
              HABITAT                                                                               STREET ENDS       IMPROVE
                                                                                                                       PARKING
                REPAIR                                                                                                    AREA
             RIPARIAN                                                                              CONSIDER
          BUFFER AND                                                                               POTENTIAL ECO-
                GREEN                                                                              TOXICOLOGY
          STREET ENDS                                                                              ISSUES

          INVESTIGATE
        TURNEY CREEK                                                                                                    CREATE
         DAYLIGHTING                                                                                                   SEATING
                                                                                                                          AREA




                                                                                                  EXPAND
                                                                                                  OYSTER
                                                                                                  POPULATION


                                                                                                                      IMPROVE
                                                                                                                         OPEN
                                                                                                                        SPACE


                                                                                                                      IMPROVE
                                                                                                                         TRAIL
               DEVELOP                                                                                                  PLACE
      INVASIVE SPECIES                                                                                                   BIRD
         MANAGEMENT                                                                                                     BLIND                                                    RECONSTRUCT
         PLANS. REVIEW
                                                                                                   REPAIR                                                                        SIDEWALK
            TIDE GATES.
                                                                                                   RIPARIAN                                                                      WITH GREEN
                                                                                                   BUFFER                                                                        INFRASTRUCTURE
           ENHANCE                                                                                                                                                               TECHNOLOGIES
        MEADOW AND
         WOODLAND


                                                                                                   ENHANCE                                                                       BUILD
                                                                                                   SALT MARSH                                                                    PUBLIC
              DEVELOP                                                                                                                                                            BATHROOMS
                                                                                                                     REDESIGN
      INVASIVE SPECIES
                                                                                                                     LOOKOUT
         MANAGEMENT                                                                                                                                                              BUILD
                                                                                                   IMPROVE               AREA
         PLAN. REVIEW                                                                                                                                                            NEW PATH
             TIDE GATE.                                                                            WOODLAND
                                                                                                                                                                                 SYSTEM
                                                                                                   RESTORE
          COORDINATE                                                                               MEADOW
            DREDGING                                                                               RESTORE
           WITH DUNE                                                                               DUNE
         STEWARDSHIP                                                                                                                                                             INSTALL
                                                                                                   EXPLORE
                                                                                                   WAVE                                                                          PROTECTIVE
                                                                                                   ATTENUATION                                                                   DUNE
                                                                                                   PRACTICES                                                                     FENCING


                                         RESTORATION PLANRESTORATION PLAN
                                                POTENTIAL                                                                                      EDUCATION AND RECREATION PLAN
                                                                                                                                     EDUCATION AND CIRCULATION PLAN
                                                                    Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan                                                Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                                   0   250   500   1,000
                                                                                                   Feet   °   N                                                 0   250   500   1,000
                                                                                                                                                                                   Feet   °   N
                                                                                                                                                                                                  46
RECOMMENDED NEXT STEPS


1. Work with stakeholders to prioritize above
recommendations.

2. Continue this report’s Phase 1 efforts towards
developing a Phase 2 comprehensive Ecological
Restoration Plan.

3. Integrate recommendations with post-Sandy
recovery efforts.

4. Perform community outreach to improve citizen
understanding and stewardship of the estuary.

5. Investigate wetland mitigation opportunities.

6. Implement wayfinding, environmental kiosks, and
signage.

7. Perform engineering review of tide gates.

8. Develop a green infrastructure plan.

Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                        47
9. Investigate whether a River Commission or
a Harbor Management Plan for Ash Creek is an
appropriate approach to protecting the Ash Creek
tidal estuary.
10. Continue to work with the City of Bridgeport
to enhance their capabilities to manage the estuary
from an ecological perspective.
11. Continue to work with the Town of Fairfield to
enhance their capabilities to manage the estuary
from an ecological perspective.
12. Develop planting specifications and design
alternatives for the St. Mary’s Sand Spit.
13. Encourage land-use practices that protect,
maintain, and enhance the sand dunes on the St.
Marys Sand Spit.
14. Coordinate with Rooster River Watershed Plan.
15. Investigate restoration opportunities in upper
reaches of Turney Creek.
16. Re-enforce and develop more extensive
relationships with environmental education
organizations, including local school districts.

                                                      RECOMMENDED NEXT STEPS
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan                                             48
THANK YOU!


                    QUESTIONS?
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan      49
Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan   50

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Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan - Phase I

  • 1. Master Plan Ash Creek Conservation Association, Inc.
  • 2. “Despite all the benefits provided by wetlands, the United States loses about 60,000 acres each year.” United States Environmental Protection Agency Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 2
  • 3. ASH CREEK ESTUARY MASTER PLAN ASH CREEK CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION, INC. ∙ DECEMBER 2012 THE IMAGES AND INFORMATION CONTAINED HERE ARE MASTER PLAN CONCEPTS AND ARE INTENDED FOR GENERAL REFERENCE PURPOSES ONLY; THEY DO NOT REPRESENT AN APPROVED DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR THE ESTUARY OR ANY PART THEREOF AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. THIS MATERIAL, AND THE INFORMATION CONTAIND HERE, DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OR COMMITMENT TO PURCHASE, MODIFY, OR SELL PROPERTY. 3 Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 3
  • 4. PRESENTATION OVERVIEW 1. Introduction 2. Methodology 3. Study Area A: Upper Creek 4. Study Area B: Lower Creek 5. Study Area C: Tidal Inlet 6. Study Area D:Turney Creek 7. Study Area E: Riverside Creek 8. Recommendations WRITTEN BY ONE NATURE AND STEVEN DANZER, PHD & ASSOCIATES. FUNDING SUPPORT FROM THE FAIRFIELD COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION, AND PRO-BONO CONTRIBUTIONS FROM THE AUTHORS. FUNDING SUPPORT ALSO PROVIDED BY THE WATERSHED ASSISTANCE SMALL GRANTS PROGRAM, CONDUCTED IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY & ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION UNDER SECTION 319 OF THE CLEAN WATER ACT. THE SMALL GRANTS PROGRAM IS ADMINISTERED BY RIVERS ALLIANCE OF CONNECTICUT. Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 4
  • 5. INTRODUCTION "Next to • The goal of this study is to establish a tropical framework. rainforests, • Ash Creek is a rare example of a tidal wetlands are the most relatively healthy urban estuary. biologically • The estuary provides many important productive ecological services. resource in the world." • The estuary is an important part of the Connecticut Department region’s cultural heritage. of Energy & Environmental Protection • Thank you to FCCF and Rivers Alliance. Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 5
  • 6. SITE INTRODUCTION Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 6
  • 7. UPLAND MEADOW I - 95 MUDFLAT BREWSTER MARITIME FOREST STREET BRIDGE FRESHWATER WETLAND COMBINED HIGH MARSH SEWER OVERFLOW LOW MARSH BACKDUNE NEW PARK (NOT SHOWN) FOREDUNE PUBLIC BEACH ACCESS FAIRFIELD AVENUE BRIDGE PUBLIC ACCESS WATERFRONT TURNEY SIDEWALK CREEK TIDE GATES OYSTER REEF RIVERSIDE CREEK GREAT PUBLIC MARSH OPEN SPACE ISLAND BENSON GROVERS HILL MARINA ARTIFICIAL WATERFRONT PENNINSUAL SIDEWALK TIDE GATE CAPOZZI PARK BARRIER SPIT ST. MARY’S BY-THE-SEA LINEAR PARK JENNINGS BEACH EXISTING CONDITIONS EXISTING CONDITIONS EXISTING HABITAT TYPES EXISTING HABITAT TYPES INTRODUCTION Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 7 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° N
  • 8. 1934 AERIAL 1990 AERIAL 2010 AERIAL 2010 AERIAL INTRODUCTION Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 8 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° 0 250 500 1,000 Feet °
  • 9. t 1895 USGS MAP 1895 USGS MAP 1997 USGS MAP 1997 INTRODUCTION USGS MAP Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 9 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° 0 250 500 1,000 Feet °
  • 10. 1880’S WETLANDS 1880’s WETLAND AND COASTLINE 1990 WETLANDS 1990’s WETLAND INTRODUCTION Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 10 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° 0 250 500 1,000 Feet °
  • 11. Category 4 Category 3 Category 2 Category 1 FEMA FLOOD MAP FLOOD HAZARD MAP FEMA HURRICANE SURGE MODEL SURGE MODELS HURRICANE INTRODUCTION Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 11 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° 0 250 500 1,000 Feet °
  • 12. QUALITATIVE ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY • We performed the majority of our field work in August, 2012. AREA A UPPER CREEK • We divided the study area into five geographic units for assessment. • The boundary of each unit was AREA D TURNEY CREEK AREA B LOWER determined by topography, cultural CREEK features, and the shape of the estuary. AREA E RIVERSIDE • We visited each unit, made field notes, CREEK AREA C and performed remote desktop analysis TIDAL INLET to document significant features. STUDY AREAS Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 12 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° N
  • 13. UNIT A. UPPER CREEK 1934 AERIAL 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 13
  • 14. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT A. UPPER CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 14
  • 15. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT A. UPPER CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 15
  • 16. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT A. UPPER CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 16
  • 17. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT A. UPPER CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 17
  • 18. Existing Conditions • Aesthetic • Carbon Storage • Flood Protection • Habitat and Biodiversity • Hydrologic, Biogeochemical, and Ecological Functions of the Tidal Ecosystem • Recreation • Water Quality Potential Threats • Erosion • Phragmites • Water Quality • Stormwater Outflows • Failed/Stalled Construction • Proposed Bridge Crossing • Potential Ecotoxic Substances • Sea Level Rise UNIT A. UPPER CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 18
  • 19. Potential Improvements 1. Enhance native vegetation throughout the study area. 2. Monitor progress at Train Station restoration site. 3. Improve vistas across the study area through planting, placement of benches, and pathway alignment. 4. Install aesthetically pleasing dune fencing according along topographic contours; 5. Improve and create street end access and gathering spaces. 6. Reclaim upland lots with non-water dependent uses for ecological restoration purposes; 7. Ensure Pedestrian footbridge becomes aesthetic asset to community. 8. Promote stormwater capture technologies including bioswales, vegetative buffer strips, rain barrel use, and permeable paving throughout the drainage area. 9. Alter street ends to create views of water. 10. Create custom signage and educational kiosks to be used throughout the Ash Creek estuary that establish a local feeling respectful of cultural and ecological conditions. 11. Encourage the creation of high marsh plants besides Phragmites; 12. Educate local property owners about the value and importance of native plant species; 13. Supplemental spot planting and seeding to encourage specific native species wherever possible; and, 14. Develop forest management plan for forested edges. 15. Generally encourage the restoration of native plant materials. 16. Monitor all design and construction activities to reduce use of heavy equipment or building materials with high carbon footprints. 17. Use pedestrian footbridge as an opportunity to create and improve habitat; 18. Discourage Phragmites colonization. 19. Create green spaces at street ends. 20. Perform feasibility study to examine options to daylight the creek north of the Old Post Road. 21. Reclaim land from adjacent low lying areas currently used for non-water dependent purposes. 22. Convert public and private lawn spaces to native vegetation. 23. Define public access points and encourage ADA accessibility. 24. Develop bikeway and pedestrian routes with location of new pedestrian bridge. 25. Install blinds for bird watchers. 26. Develop and implement a green infrastructure plan that specifically addresses street ends runoff, residential properties, and permeable pavement conversion. 27. Map and monitor all outfalls. 28. Perform regular testing to quantify upstream pollutant contribution. 29. Coordinate with upstream Rooster River watershed planning efforts to identify specific water quality improvement projects. UNIT A. UPPER CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 19
  • 20. UNIT B. LOWER CREEK 1934 AERIAL 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 20
  • 21. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT B. LOWER CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 21
  • 22. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT B. LOWER CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 22
  • 23. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT B. LOWER CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 23
  • 24. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT B. LOWER CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 24
  • 25. Existing Conditions • Aesthetic • Carbon Storage • Flood Protection • Habitat and Biodiversity • Hydrologic, Biogeochemical, and Ecological Functions of the Tidal Ecosystem • Water Quality • Recreation Potential Threats • CT DEEP Water Quality Assessment • Phragmites • Gillman Street Stormwater Outfalls • Decayed Phragmites • Tide Gates • Buffer Condition on East Side • Rip-Rapped Peninsula • Motorized Watercraft • Waterfront Access from the Peninsula • Sea Level Rise • Dog Use UNIT B. LOWER CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 25
  • 26. Potential Improvements 1. Enhance native vegetation throughout the study area. 2. Improve vistas across the study area through planting, placement of benches, and pathway alignment. 3. Improve existing overlook area on Bridgeport side at the terminus of the promenade. 4. Work with adjacent property owners to integrate native plants into their landscape design choices. 5. Work with local stakeholders post-Sandy reconstruction efforts to integrate native plants into redevelopment plans. 6. Promote stormwater capture technologies including bioswales, vegetative buffer strips, rain barrel use, and permeable paving throughout the drainage area. 7. Create custom signage and educational kiosks to be used throughout the Ash Creek estuary that establish a local feeling respectful of cultural and ecological conditions. 8. Improve signage at Fairfield Avenue Bridge. 9. Identify newest stands of Phragmites for removal. 10. Encourage the creation of high marsh plants. 11. Educate local property owners about the value and importance of native plant species. 12. Supplemental spot planting and seeding to encourage specific native species wherever possible. 13. Develop forest management plan for forested edges. 14. Generally encourage the restoration of native plant materials. 15. Monitor all design and construction activities to reduce use of heavy equipment or building materials with high carbon footprints. 16. Create a more robust native plant community along the Bridgeport side. Phase out all non-native plantings. 17. Encourage soft edge retrofits for hardened shorelines. 18. Discourage Phragmites colonization. 19. Reclaim land from adjacent low lying land currently used for non-water dependent purposes. 20. Convert mown lawn on Bridgeport side walkway to native shrubs and grasses. 21. Convert public and private lawn spaces to native vegetation. 22. Link bikeway and pedestrian routes with other sections of the estuary and Jennings Beach. 23. Install educational signage and kiosks in high traffic areas. 24. Develop and implement a green infrastructure plan that specifically addresses street end runoff, residential properties, and permeable pavement conversion. 25. Rethink road drainage on Bridgeport side to reduce flooding and runoff contamination. 26. Identify runoff pollution sources such as fertilizer, pesticide, and other potentially harmful substances. UNIT B. LOWER CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 26
  • 27. UNIT C. TIDAL INLET 1934 AERIAL 2010 AERIAL 0 250 500 1,000 Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 27 Feet
  • 28. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT C. TIDAL INLET Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 28
  • 29. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT C. TIDAL INLET Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 29
  • 30. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT C. TIDAL INLET Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 30
  • 31. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT C. TIDAL INLET Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 31
  • 32. Existing Conditions • Aesthetic • Carbon Storage • Flood Protection • Habitat and Biodiversity • Hydrologic, Biogeochemical, and Ecological Functions of the Tidal Ecosystem • Recreation • Water Quality Potential Threats • Erosion/Deposition • Invasive Species • Dog Use • Storm Events • Jurisdictional Ovelap • Motorized watercraft • Sea Level Rise • Overuse UNIT C. TIDAL INLET Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 32
  • 33. Potential Improvements 1. Enhance native vegetation throughout the study area. 2. Improve vistas across the lower creek and the sound through planting, placement of benches, and pathway alignment. 3. Install aesthetically pleasing dune fencing according along topographic contours. 4. Improve gathering spaces through use of permeable pavers, fill placement, and historically appropriate site furnishing. 5. Create custom signage and educational kiosks to be used throughout the Ash Creek estuary to establish a local feeling respectful of cultural and ecological conditions. 6. Protect large sections of the barrier spit from dogs and foot traffic. 7. Supplemental spot planting to encourage specific species. 8. Develop forest management plan for Capozzi Park. Thin trees and control invasive species to create greater plant diversity. 9. Generally encourage the restoration of native plant materials. 10. Monitor all design and construction activities to reduce use of heavy equipment or building materials with high carbon footprints. 11. Manage the Bird Sanctuary to promote more standing and ground sequestered biomass. Expand the forest farther west. 12. Convert all lawn spaces to native coastal vegetation. 13. Restore tidal salt marsh and riparian zones on the northeast side of the barrier spit. 14. Bring back coastal meadow and shrub habitat on the southwest edge of the Bird Sanctuary. 15. Convert mown lawn on promenade walkway to native shrubs and grasses. 16. Better define access points to the barrier spit to avoid trampling native plants. 17. Install bike racks. 18. Construct new pathways through the Bird Sanctuary to counter the dominance of the road on visitor experience and to provide access to additional environmental education. 19. Temporary toilets should be removed, added, better maintained, or replaced with permanent bathrooms. 20. Design and install a defined bikeway and sidewalk system that would create a safer and more accessible experience. UNIT C. TIDAL INLET Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 33
  • 34. UNIT D. TURNEY CREEK 1934 AERIAL 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 34
  • 35. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT D. TURNEY CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 35
  • 36. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT D. TURNEY CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 36
  • 37. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT D. TURNEY CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 37
  • 38. Existing Conditions • Aesthetic • Carbon Storage • Flood Protection • Habitat and Biodiversity • Hydrologic, Biogeochemical, and Ecological Functions of the Tidal Ecosystem • Recreation • Saline/Fresh Water Exchange • Water Quality Potential Threats • Erosion/Deposition • Invasive Species • Dog Use • Storm Events • Jurisdictional Ovelap • Motorized watercraft • Sea Level Rise • Overuse UNIT D. TURNEY CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 38
  • 39. Potential Improvements 1. Enhance native vegetation throughout the study area. 2. Improve vistas across the study area through planting, placement of benches, and pathway alignment. 3. Work with adjacent property owners to integrate native plants into their landscape design choices. 4. Improve and create street end access and gathering spaces. 5. Examine potential for removing fill form adjacent land to increase tidal marsh habitat, perhaps in coordination with flood mitigation efforts. 6. Work with Fairfield post-Sandy reconstruction efforts to integrate native plants into redevelopment plans. 7. Promote stormwater capture technologies including bioswales, vegetative buffer strips, rain barrel use, and permeable paving throughout the drainage area. 8. Integrate restoration with Hurricane Sandy recovery efforts. 9. Alter street ends to create views of water. 10. Create custom signage and educational kiosks to be used throughout the Ash Creek estuary that establish a local feeling respectful of cultural and ecological conditions. 11. Encourage the creation of high marsh plant. 12. Educate local property owners about the value and importance of native plant species. 13. Supplemental spot planting and seeding to encourage specific native species wherever possible; and, 14. Develop forest management plan for forested edges. 15. Improve tidal gates to allow more tidal flushing, thereby reducing methane and nitrous oxide releases (both greenhouse gases). 16. Create more wetlands. 17. Generally encourage the restoration of native plant materials. 18. Monitor all design and construction activities to reduce use of heavy equipment or building materials with high carbon footprints. 19. Increase intertidal marsh areas through reclaiming vacant propterties. 20. Discourage Phragmites colonization. 21. Create green spaces at the end of street ends. 22. Reclaim land from adjacent low lying land currently used for non-water dependent purposes. UNIT D. TURNEY CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 39
  • 40. UNIT E. RIVERSIDE CREEK 0 250 500 1,000 Feet 1934 AERIAL 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 1934 AERIAL 40 Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan
  • 41. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT E. RIVERSIDE CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 41
  • 42. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT E. RIVERSIDE CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 42
  • 43. 2010 AERIAL Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° UNIT E. RIVERSIDE CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 43
  • 44. Existing Conditions • Aesthetic • Carbon Storage • Flood Protection • Habitat and Biodiversity • Hydrologic, Biogeochemical, and Ecological Functions of the Tidal Ecosystem • Recreation • Water Quality Potential Threats • Erosion/Deposition • Invasive species • Upland Buffer • Fire • Impervious Surfaces • Marina Boat Basin • CT DEEP Water Quality assessment • Sea level rise UNIT E. RIVERSIDE CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 44 2010 AERIAL
  • 45. Potential Improvements 1. Enhance native vegetation throughout the study area. 2. Improve entryway to public open space at the Marina. 3. The bench at the end of the peninsula faces the backside of the sign and should be re-oriented. In general, vistas should be improved across the study area through planting, placement of benches, and pathway alignment. 4. Work with adjacent property owners to integrate native plants into their landscape design choices. 5. Improve and create street end access and gathering spaces. 6. Examine potential for removing fill form adjacent land to increase tidal marsh habitat, perhaps in coordination with flood mitigation efforts. 7. Work with Fairfield post-Sandy reconstruction efforts to integrate native plants into redevelopment plans. 8. Promote stormwater capture technologies including bioswales, vegetative buffer strips, rain barrel use, and permeable paving throughout the drainage area. 9. Integrate restoration with Hurricane Sandy recovery efforts. 10. Add native vegetation to parking islands near the public open space at the peninsula. 11. Alter street ends to create views of water. 12. Create custom signage and educational kiosks to be used throughout the Ash Creek estuary that establish a local feeling respectful of cultural and ecological conditions. 13. Encourage the creation of high marsh plants. 14. Educate local property owners about the value and importance of native plant species. 15. Increase salinity in tidal creeks. 16. Supplemental spot planting and seeding to encourage specific native species wherever possible. 17. Develop forest management plan for forested edges. 18. Improve tidal gates to allow more tidal flushing, thereby reducing methane and nitrous oxide releases (both greenhouse gases). 19. Create more wetlands. 20. Generally encourage the restoration of native plant materials. 21. Monitor all design and construction activities to reduce use of heavy equipment or building materials with high carbon footprints. 22. Increase intertidal marsh areas through reclaiming vacant properties. 23. Discourage Phragmites colonization. 24. Create green spaces at the end of street ends. 25. Reclaim land from adjacent low lying land currently used for non-water dependent purposes. 26. Convert mown lawn on promenade walkway to native shrubs and grasses. 27. Convert public and private lawn spaces to native vegetation. 28. Define public access points. 29. Link bikeway and pedestrian routes with other sections of the estuary and Jennings Beach. 30. Install educational signage and kiosks in high traffic areas. 31. Improve ADA access to waterfront views. 32. Develop and implement a green infrastructure plan that specifically addresses street ends runoff, residential properties, and permeable pavement conversion. 33. Study the function and design of all tide gates and culverts. 34. Identify runoff pollution sources such as fertilizer, pesticide, and other potentially harmful substances. UNIT E. RIVERSIDE CREEK Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 45 2010 AERIAL
  • 46. ONE SYSTEM, MANY PARTS NOTES: 1. PROMOTE NATIVE SPECIES, GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE AND ORGANIC LANDSCAPE STEWARDSHIP THROUGHOUT ENTIRE DRAINAGE BASIN; EDUCATIONAL SIGNAGE MONITOR AND COMPLETE WALKING/BIKING ROUTE 2. ALL RECOMEMNDATIONS MADE IN THIS PLAN MUST BE VERIFIED ONGOING THROUGH FURTHER STUDY, STAKEHOLDER COORDINATION, AND RESTORATION DESIGN DEVELOPMENT PRIOR TO IMPLIMENTATION; AND, PROJECT 3. NEW TRAIN STATION DEVELOPMENT IS NOT SHOWN IN THIS 2010 STUDY AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH. COMBINED SEWER OVERFLOW PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE CREATE USE PLANNED REPAIR LANDING STREETEND PEDESTRIAN RIPARIAN PARK FOOTBRIDGE BUFFER AND TO RESTORE GREEN HABITAT STREET ENDS IMPROVE PARKING REPAIR AREA RIPARIAN CONSIDER BUFFER AND POTENTIAL ECO- GREEN TOXICOLOGY STREET ENDS ISSUES INVESTIGATE TURNEY CREEK CREATE DAYLIGHTING SEATING AREA EXPAND OYSTER POPULATION IMPROVE OPEN SPACE IMPROVE TRAIL DEVELOP PLACE INVASIVE SPECIES BIRD MANAGEMENT BLIND RECONSTRUCT PLANS. REVIEW REPAIR SIDEWALK TIDE GATES. RIPARIAN WITH GREEN BUFFER INFRASTRUCTURE ENHANCE TECHNOLOGIES MEADOW AND WOODLAND ENHANCE BUILD SALT MARSH PUBLIC DEVELOP BATHROOMS REDESIGN INVASIVE SPECIES LOOKOUT MANAGEMENT BUILD IMPROVE AREA PLAN. REVIEW NEW PATH TIDE GATE. WOODLAND SYSTEM RESTORE COORDINATE MEADOW DREDGING RESTORE WITH DUNE DUNE STEWARDSHIP INSTALL EXPLORE WAVE PROTECTIVE ATTENUATION DUNE PRACTICES FENCING RESTORATION PLANRESTORATION PLAN POTENTIAL EDUCATION AND RECREATION PLAN EDUCATION AND CIRCULATION PLAN Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan Ash Creek Ecological Master Plan Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° N 0 250 500 1,000 Feet ° N 46
  • 47. RECOMMENDED NEXT STEPS 1. Work with stakeholders to prioritize above recommendations. 2. Continue this report’s Phase 1 efforts towards developing a Phase 2 comprehensive Ecological Restoration Plan. 3. Integrate recommendations with post-Sandy recovery efforts. 4. Perform community outreach to improve citizen understanding and stewardship of the estuary. 5. Investigate wetland mitigation opportunities. 6. Implement wayfinding, environmental kiosks, and signage. 7. Perform engineering review of tide gates. 8. Develop a green infrastructure plan. Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 47
  • 48. 9. Investigate whether a River Commission or a Harbor Management Plan for Ash Creek is an appropriate approach to protecting the Ash Creek tidal estuary. 10. Continue to work with the City of Bridgeport to enhance their capabilities to manage the estuary from an ecological perspective. 11. Continue to work with the Town of Fairfield to enhance their capabilities to manage the estuary from an ecological perspective. 12. Develop planting specifications and design alternatives for the St. Mary’s Sand Spit. 13. Encourage land-use practices that protect, maintain, and enhance the sand dunes on the St. Marys Sand Spit. 14. Coordinate with Rooster River Watershed Plan. 15. Investigate restoration opportunities in upper reaches of Turney Creek. 16. Re-enforce and develop more extensive relationships with environmental education organizations, including local school districts. RECOMMENDED NEXT STEPS Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 48
  • 49. THANK YOU! QUESTIONS? Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 49
  • 50. Ash Creek Estuary Master Plan 50