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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023.YER_DEP.SE83-2142 November 10, 2023 Yarmouth Conservation Commission 1146 Route 28 South Yarmouth, MA 02664 Sent via email: bdirienzo@yarmouth.ma.us, kbrooks@yarmouth.ma.us Re: Perera Pond, Yarmouth Port, MA – 2023 Year End Report – DEP# SE83-2142 Dear Ms. DiRienzo, Ms. Brooks, and Commission Members, It is our pleasure to present a Year End Summary Report regarding the 2023 Aquatic Management Program at Perera (pictured in Figure 1). The Pond is approximately .4 surface acres and is located in Yarmouth Port, MA. This waterbody is surrounded by two homes with a saltwater marsh to the North. A slim barrier of shrubbery and larger vegetation act as a buffer between the houses and the shoreline to the Pond. Historically, Perera Pond has battled nuisance densities of aquatic native vegetation species (Potamogeton sp.) and algae, with occurrences of invasive species Common Reed (Phragmites Australis) and Japanese Knotweed during the 2023 season. The goal of the 2023 program was to manage the invasive species and nuisance densities of native species/algae while monitoring basic water quality through a proactive monthly schedule. This would be accomplished by implementing an Aquatic Management Program that focused around performing all applicable tasks, including planning, permitting, surveys, treatments, and reporting. During each visit to the pond, a survey was conducted using visual observation paired with a standard throw- rake and handheld GPS/ArcGIS Field Maps, as applicable. Additionally, dissolved oxygen (DO) and temperature readings were collected throughout the season using a calibrated YSI meter with optical sensor. Dissolved Oxygen is the amount of oxygen in water that is available to aquatic organisms. DO is necessary to support fish spawning, growth, and activity. Tolerance varies by species, but the figure shown provides a general range of fish tolerance (Source: epa.gov). Dissolved oxygen can be affected by many outside factors, such as: temperature, time of day, and pollution. Dissolved oxygen levels are typically lowest early in the morning. Healthy water should generally have concentrations of about 6.5-8+ mg/L. All readings are included in tables throughout this report. Figure 1: Perera Pond Figure 2: Dissolved Oxygen Table All permitting, treatment and survey tasks were completed without issue and at the proper times. The table below provides the specific dates of each task. Below the table, each visit/task performed is described in additional detail. Summary Of 2023 Management Activities Date Task/Description February 17, 2023 MA-DEP Permit #WM04-0001108 obtained. May 25, 2023 A pre-treatment survey was conducted to gauge a baseline condition of the Pond and to document vegetation species/densities present. June 15, 2023 Replaced aeration system compressor; Monitoring visit July 17, 2023 Herbicide/Algaecide treatment performed August 18, 2023 A survey was conducted; Basic water quality was collected September 15, 2023 The final site visit was completed; A survey was performed to document late- season conditions and gauge the overall effectiveness of the 2023 Aquatic Management Program as well as treatment of Common Reed and Knotweed. May 25, 2023 - Monitoring Site Visit On May 25th, Co-Owner/Senior Aquatic Biologist, Colin Gosselin, completed a site visit to Perera Pond. The visit consisted of performing a survey, collecting basic water quality data, and assessing the existing aeration system. Conditions during the visit were windy and sunny. Upon arrival, a survey was conducted using visual observation paired with a standard throw-rake and handheld GPS/ArcGIS Field Maps, as applicable. The water quality appeared excellent as visibility was to the bottom of the pond throughout. Little to no Filamentous Algae was present during the visit. A small amount of Beneficial Aquatic Moss was documented on the bottom of the pond. Invasive Japanese Knotweed and Phragmites were documented scattered around the edges of the pond. These emergent species were planned for treatment later in the season to allow for translocation of the systemic herbicide down into the rhizomes of the target plants, thus providing carry over control in subsequent seasons. The existing submersed aeration system was assessed. Unfortunately, the compressor was broken. There seemed to be some corrosion in the motor, suggested saltwater infiltration at some point. We recommended replacing the compressor and took down the model number and serial number to assist with ordering replacement parts. Figure 3: Perera Pond - May 25th, 2023 The water temperature was consistent with other similar waterbodies we manage in the area, and the dissolved oxygen was sufficient to support fish and wildlife, despite the aeration system being down. As seen in the photos, the pond looked great and did not warrant treatment at this time. We continued to monitor throughout the season and planned to treat, only as warranted. Likely for the control of Duckweed, Watermeal, and Algae, as well as the later season emergent invasive species treatment noted above. Surface Temp (℃) Surface Dissolved Oxygen (mg/l) 20.7 11.51 June 15, 2023 - Monitoring Site Visit / Aeration Replacement On June 15th, Co-Owner/Senior Aquatic Biologist, Colin Gosselin, made a visit to Perera Pond. Upon arrival to the site, a survey was conducted using visual observation paired with a standard throw-rake and handheld GPS/ArcGIS Field Maps, as applicable. Overall, during this visit, the pond looked great and did not warrant treatment at this time. The only vegetation documented during the survey was native Thin-Leaf Pondweed and Aquatic Moss. There was no visible algae on the surface, in the water column, or on the bottom. Phragmites and Knotweed, both emergent invasive species, were again documented along the shoreline. It was still too early in the season for management of these species; however, we planned to manage them later in the season when timing was most appropriate. The aeration system compressor was replaced with a brand -new compressor. This was replaced without issue; however, there was no power going to the outlets so it had to be turned on from inside the house following our departure. Surface Temp (℃) Surface Dissolved Oxygen (mg/l) 21.2 9.54 July 17, 2023 - Monitoring Site Visit On July 17th, Aquatic Biologist, Scott Conrade, made a visit to Perera Pond. Upon arrival to the site, a survey was conducted using visual observation paired with a standard throw-rake and handheld GPS/ArcGIS Field Maps, as applicable. Figure 4: Perera Pond Shoreline Figure 5: Overview of Perera Pond - June 15th, 2023 Upon arrival, a survey was conducted. several terrestrial invasive species were identified. Phragmites, Multi Flora Rose, Bittersweet and Purple Loosestrife were all observed. The Pond itself was topped out with Bushy Pondweed, which was targeted for treatment. There was also some algae present which was caught up in the Bushy Pondweed. We anticipated the treatment to control both of these issues. It was noted that one of the diffuser heads was making larger bubbles than normal. This is often a sign of a broken diffuser head. We recommended that this diffuser be replaced. pH was also checked with a calibrated meter and was 8.1 which is within a standard range and leaning towards basic. A treatment was conducted for the control of algae and nuisance aquatic plants and algae. The liquid contact herbicide and algaecide were applied using a treatment boat equipped with a calibrated sub-surface injection system. This application methodology allows for even coverage within the treatment areas. The treatment was completed without issue. August 18, 2023 - Monitoring Site Visit On August 18th, Co-Owner/Senior Aquatic Biologist, Colin Gosselin, made a visit to Perera Pond. Upon arrival to the site, a survey was conducted using visual observation paired with a standard throw-rake and handheld GPS/ArcGIS Field Maps, as applicable. Overall, the pond looked great! The previous treatment worked well as the algae was generally gone. Some algae remained on the far shoreline, but it was dead, and we anticipated it to drop out of the water column shortly thereafter. The invasive Phragmites were planned for treatment during the September visit. By waiting until late in the season, the systemic herbicide will translocate downward into the rhizomes of the Phragmites, thus killing the entire plant. September 15, 2023 - Monitoring Site Visit On September 15th, Co-Owner/Senior Aquatic Biologist, Colin Gosselin, made a visit to Perera Pond. Upon arrival to the site, a survey was conducted using visual observation paired with a standard throw-rake and handheld GPS/ArcGIS Field Maps, as applicable. Surface Temp (℃) Surface Dissolved Oxygen (mg/l) 26.3 9.31 Surface Temp (℃) Surface Dissolved Oxygen (mg/l) 22.7 7.9 Figure 6: Pondweed at Perera Pond Figure 7: Phragmites at Perera Pond The Common Reed and the Japanese Knotweed along the shoreline were all treated during this visit. By waiting until late in the season, the systemic herbicide will then translocate downward and into the rhizomes. This approach will provide carry-over control. The water level of the pond was high during this visit. As discussed previously, we took a look to assess the outflow and possible means of lowering the water level for the winter. The only pipe found was near the green aeration box on the edge of the Pond. It was capped and a large wrench would be needed to open it up. This may be the pipe that is typically open in the winter to increase hydraulic capacity and the potential for flooding during winter storm events. . Surface Temp (℃) Surface Dissolved Oxygen (mg/l) 19.7 7.87 Summary / 2024 Recommendations 2023 marked the first year in which Water & Wetland, LLC took over management of Perera Pond. The program focused on regular monitoring of pond conditions with an emphasis on nuisance and invasive plants and algae. For 2024, we recommend continuing with a similar approach. By regularly monitoring pond conditions throughout the growing season, we can make educated real-time decisions. This eliminates under-treating or over-treating. The program, targets, and management techniques are still consistent with the original Notice of Intent filing. We’ve greatly enjoyed working at the Perera Property during the 2023 season. We hope that you were impressed with the communication, timeliness, and expertise of Water & Wetland. We look forward to working with you to continue to improve the health of Perera Pond in 2024 and beyond. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. Sincerely, James Lacasse Project Manager Senior Environmental Scientist c: 774-276-6098 o: 888-4WETLAN(D) james@waterandwetland.com www.waterandwetland.com Attachments Include: 2023 MA-DEP Permit Figure 8: Perera Pond – Shoreline – September 15th, 2023 Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs Maura T. Healey Governor Kimberley Driscoll Lieutenant Governor Rebecca L. Tepper Secretary Gary Moran Acting Commissioner Department of Environmental Protection 100 Cambridge Street 9th Floor Boston, MA 02114 Ÿ 617-292-5500 License No.:WM04-0001108 LICENSE TO APPLY CHEMICALS FOR CONTROL OF NUISANCE AQUATIC VEGETATION Applicant: COLIN J GOSSELIN Name of Waterbody: PERERA POND Location of Waterbody: YARMOUTH PORT Project Proponent: RONALD PERERA AUTHORITY FOR ISSUANCE Pursuant to the authority granted to the Department of Environmental Protection, by Massachusetts G.L.c. 111, s5E, the following license is hereby issued to COLIN GOSSELIN, Water and Wetland (hereinafter called the “licensee”), authorizing the application of chemicals for the control of nutrients, algae or aquatic plants to PERERA POND, YARMOUTH PORT; such authorization being expressly conditional on compliance by the licensee with all terms and conditions of the license hereinafter set forth. This license shall become effective on the date of the Director’s signature and shall expire on the 12/31/2023. Sincerely, License Effective Date: 02/17/2023 Stephanie Moura Page 1 of 5v1.0 02/17/2023 Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs Maura T. Healey Governor Kimberley Driscoll Lieutenant Governor Rebecca L. Tepper Secretary Gary Moran Acting Commissioner Department of Environmental Protection 100 Cambridge Street 9th Floor Boston, MA 02114 Ÿ 617-292-5500 License No.:WM04-0001108 Director, Division of Wetlands and Waterways Department of Environmental Protection Page 2 of 5v1.0 02/17/2023 Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs Maura T. Healey Governor Kimberley Driscoll Lieutenant Governor Rebecca L. Tepper Secretary Gary Moran Acting Commissioner Department of Environmental Protection 100 Cambridge Street 9th Floor Boston, MA 02114 Ÿ 617-292-5500 License No.:WM04-0001108 A.Application Condition(s) Chemical Information Product Brand Name/Trade Name Chemical Form (dry/liquid) Units of Measurement (lbs/gallons) Acres Treated Application Rate Total Weight/Volume Applied Planned Maximum Concentration (ppm) Captain xtr liquid .9 gal .5 .6 gal/acre/ft Reward liquid .75 gal .5 1.5gal/acre Clipper dry 1 lb .5 2lbs/acre AquaPro liquid .25 gal .25 1 gal/acre Treatment Method: Treatments will be performed throughout the summer on a as needed basis( May - September) using a back pack sprayer. Foliar treatment of the Phragmites will be performed in September. B.Application Report By December 31st of the year of this treatment, the licensee shall submit a written report to the Department certifying the treatment date, application rate and the total weight/volume for each chemical used in the treatment, in accordance with requirements of Section I.A. of this license. Please send the report to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (David.W.Wong@mass.gov). C.Modification of Application Conditions The licensee shall not apply chemicals in a manner contrary to, or inconsistent with, the application conditions set forth in Section I.A. of this license without the prior written approval of the Department. D. Special Condition(s) Flumioxazin Special Treatment Conditions: In addition to label instructions, the MDAR, MADFW and MassDEP have developed special treatment conditions that supersede some label restrictions. 1) The maximum permissible application concentration is 200 ug/L. 2) In order to limit the spatial extent of non-target damage from the toxicity of flumioxazin, no more than ¼ of the water body may be treated in any one year. Page 3 of 5v1.0 02/17/2023 Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs Maura T. Healey Governor Kimberley Driscoll Lieutenant Governor Rebecca L. Tepper Secretary Gary Moran Acting Commissioner Department of Environmental Protection 100 Cambridge Street 9th Floor Boston, MA 02114 Ÿ 617-292-5500 License No.:WM04-0001108 3) Treated areas may not be retreated with flumioxazin or any herbicide with a similar mode of action (i.e., light dependent peroxidizing herbicide) for three consecutive years in order to prevent the development of herbicide resistance in treated plants and allow for the recolonization of mussels and other native biota. The exception to this restriction is repeat targeted treatments in consecutive years in the immediate vicinity around shoreline structures (e.g., boat launches, docks, swimming beaches, dams, water intake pipes) and drainage ditches, ponds entirely internal to golf courses, etc. 4) Flumioxazin is excluded from use in State-listed aquatic species habitats, unless otherwise authorized in writing on a case-by-case basis by the MA Division of Fisheries and Wildlife pursuant to the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act, MGL c.131A and its implementing regulations 321 CMR 10.00. General Conditions A.The licensee is hereby notified that chemical treatments to control aquatic nuisances in public or private lakes and ponds of the Commonwealth involve the alteration of wetland resource areas protected under both Massachusetts G.L.c. 131, s40, the Wetlands Protection Act and 310 CMR 10.00, Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Regulations. B.The licensee is hereby notified that issuance of this license does not in any way constitute the Department’s approval of the chemical treatment as it related to the provisions of the Wetlands Protection Act. C.The licensee shall obtain either a final Order of Conditions or a negative Determination of Applicability from the YARMOUTH PORT Conservation Commission(s) prior to application of chemicals authorized under this license. D.Shoreline areas of the lake or pond must be posted with signs warning the general public of any water use restrictions stated on the chemical label minimum for one week. This is especially important at bathing beaches and other areas of common access. These signs shall clearly state that the chemical treatment is being conducted pursuant to a license issued by the Department of Environmental Protection, “DEP”. A new sign shall be posted for each treatment event. E.The Department may require the licensee to cease application of chemicals to a body of water at any time following the issuance of a license if the Department determines that the chemical treatment will be ineffective, or will result in unreasonable restrictions on current water uses, or will produce unnecessary adverse side effects on nontarget flora or fauna. F.Chemical applications shall be performed in accordance with the manufacturer’s label directions, existing pesticide use laws, and any conditions imposed by other local or state agencies. Page 4 of 5v1.0 02/17/2023 Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs Maura T. Healey Governor Kimberley Driscoll Lieutenant Governor Rebecca L. Tepper Secretary Gary Moran Acting Commissioner Department of Environmental Protection 100 Cambridge Street 9th Floor Boston, MA 02114 Ÿ 617-292-5500 License No.:WM04-0001108 G.Chemical treatments to water using general use pesticides shall only be performed by an applicator currently licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Pesticide Program in the aquatics category. Chemical treatments to Bordering Vegetated Wetlands (310 CMR 10.55(2)(a)) and Salt Marsh (310 CMR 10.32(2)) using general use pesticides and techniques that insure chemicals are not applied to water shall only be performed by an applicator currently licensed in Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Pesticide Program. Chemical treatments using restricted use pesticides shall only be performed by an applicator currently certified by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Pesticide Program. H. Issuance of this license does not release the licensee from liability resulting from the use of chemicals or from negligent or reckless application of chemicals specified in Section I.A of this license. I.Electronic notification of treatment must be made to the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (jason.stolarski@mass.gov, jason.carmignani@mass.gov ). Notification that the treatment was performed shall be made within 24 hours of treatment. The notification message should include waterbody, town, license number and chemicals used. J.No chemical treatment shall be conducted while a Massachusetts Department of Public Health advisory is in effect. K.In general, less than 1/3 of the lake area and less than ½ of the littoral zone should be targeted for herbicide treatment when native plants (particularly low growth forms) are dominant. Page 5 of 5v1.0 02/17/2023