Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

BUILDING A STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE MILL RIVER GREENWAY The Mill River Greenway would connect communities living along the Mill River to the area's rich history, recreational land, ecological wonders, bike paths, and hiking trails. It would build community engagement, get people outside, and provide historic and cultural educational opportunities. This document seeks to inspire the foundation of a strategic plan for the Mill River Greenway by identifying opportunities for ecological and human corridors and considering how the two intersect.

Context sensitive solutions and broad recommendations are made for the Mill River Greenway Initiative to continue their success in creating the Mill River Greenway.

The Conway School is the only institution of its kind in North America. Its focus is sustainable landscape planning and design and its graduates are awarded a Master of Science in Ecological Design degree. Each year, through its accredited, ten-month graduate program students from diverse backgrounds are immersed in a range of real-world design projects, ranging from sites to cities to regions. Graduates play significant professional roles in various aspects of landscape planning and design.

Prepared for the Mill River Greenway Initiative Prepared by Margot Halpin & Armi Macaballug The Conway School Winter 2016

BUILDING A STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE MILL RIVER GREENWAY

Prepared for the Mill River Greenway Initiative Prepared by Margot Halpin & Armi Macaballug The Conway School Winter 2016

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS The authors wish to acknowledge the generous support and guidance they received from faculty members, staff, and fellow students of the Conway School.

They would also like to thank the MRGI community, particularly Gaby Immerman, Maggie Leonard, and John Sinton for their leadership and insight.

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY A greenway that runs along the historic 15-mile Mill River and connects the eight villages of Goshen, Williamsburg, Haydenville, Leeds, Florence, Bay State, Northampton, and Easthampton provides opportunities for people to reconnect to the rich historical and ecological resources of the Mill River.

Since 2009, the Mill River Greenway Initiative has gathered research data including existing maps, information about projects and initiatives, subcommittee findings, and feasibility studies to begin the process of implementing the Mill River Greenway. The Conway School was commissioned to compile the data,

collect community feedback, and then formulate a framework for moving the greenway forward. The process of the Conway School project started with creating a data gap analysis to show missing data components for each section of the greenway. Through organizing all existing data by village, a methodology was devised which identified potential ecological and human corridors for the greenway.

Based on existing site conditions, cultural resources and surrounding ecology, summary maps were developed to delineate areas favorable for ecological and human connections.

The size of the greenway, spanning 15 miles over eight villages, presented

some challenges for this project. In addition, the lack of site specific data also limited the ability to provide site-specific solutions. To address this situation, context sensitive solutions, or implementation options based on specific sets of existing conditions, were identified for both human access and ecological restoration. These can be used at a site scale after more detailed site analysis is completed.

To move the Mill River Greenway forward, broad recommendations are provided that address the need for organizational structure, partnerships, and stewardship of this valuable resource.

The Mill River Greenway would stretch 15 miles passing through 8 villages, interconnecting diverse ecological resources with the rich historic heritage of the Mill River.

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

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"To make a greenway is to make a community."

Charles E. Little, Author of Greenways for America

CONTENTS 1 2 3

Introduction, 6

Orientation Map

Highlight: MRGI

Project Goals & Scope

ContexT, 10

Maps & Statistics

History of the Mill River

Community Meetings

Study methodology, 18

Ecological Corridors

Human Corridors

4 5 6 7 8

Ecological corridors, 22 Human Corridors, 28 strategies, 44

Ecological & Human Intersections

Context Sensitive Solutions

Human Corridor Details

Ecological Restoration Details

recommendations, 52 Appendix, 56

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INTRODUCTION Bringing people back to the river Greenways, while varying in definition and form, provide connections for people and nature within the landscape. They can be composed of trails, bike paths, wetlands, waterways or woodlands, or a combination of all these. They can be one contiguous path or a network of trails. Ultimately, greenways weave together the paths of people, plants, wildlife and water.

The Mill River Greenway Initiative (MRGI) is a group of community members from eight villages (Goshen, Williamsburg, Haydenville, Leeds, Florence, Bay State, Northampton and Easthampton) who are envisioning a 15-mile greenway along the historic Mill River. Understanding the rich history of the river, MRGI defines The Mill River Greenway as a nonmotorized network of pedestrian paths, bikeways, sidewalks, and recreational areas that bring people back to the river. This greenway would enhance community engagement,

highlight cultural and historic features, restore ecological systems, and link open space and other recreational opportunities.

From acting as a vegetated buffer to protect natural habitats to reducing the impacts of flooding, greenways can be designed to sustain the natural landscape. At the same time, they encourage connections between communities, historic sites, and recreational opportunities that can support a region’s environmental, economic, and social health.

The Mill River Greenway is not one single continuous path but rather a network of trails consisting of scenic lookouts, bike paths, hiking trails, historic sites, and recreational facilities.

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Introduction

ORIENTATION MAP

Devil's Den in Northwest Williamsburg

Meekins Library in Williamsburg center

The historic Brassworks Mill in Haydenville

See appendix for map reference

There are many historic sites and open spaces that the Mill River Greenway could connect community members to throughout the greenway. The historic sites are depicted by brown boxes with anchor symbols on that site's location, while the open spaces are depicted as green boxes. Some examples of these sites are Devil's Den at the border of Goshen and Williamsburg, Meekins Library in Williamsburg center, the Brassworks Mill in Haydenville, and Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary in Northampton and Easthampton. (See images on right)

Morning dew drips on spiderwebs at Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary

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HIGHLIGHT: MRGI In 2009, a citizens’ advocacy group formed with the aim of making good design a central feature in downtown Northampton where the Mill River ran before 1940. Later that year, a dozen Northampton and Williamsburg residents gathered to extend the idea of good design to the whole Mill River.

By spring of 2010, MRGI numbered some three dozen members and held bi-monthly meetings, established an agenda to collect archival materials, held community meetings, and worked on a series of projects.

In November 2010, MRGI partnered with Smith College’s Center for Environment, Ecological Design, and Sustainability (CEEDS) to begin a partnership that has resulted in a series of research and professional projects.

In 2012, three members of MRGI stepped up to volunteer as comoderators: John Sinton, Gaby Immerman, and Neal Bastek. The highlight of that year was a charrette led by faculty and alumni from the Landscape Architecture and Regional Planning Department of the University of Massachusetts.

Over the course of the next three years, MRGI added 250 members and began a series of 10 riverwalks from the end of the river in Easthampton to the Williamsburg Dam Disaster site. MRGI spawned neighborhood committees in Williamsburg, Leeds, and Bay State and has self-guided riverwalk brochures for downtown Northampton and Leeds with a new one slated for Florence in 2015.

In 2014, through its 501(c)(3) fiscal agent, the Connecticut River Watershed Council, MRGI raised funds from its members and entered an agreement with the Conway School to assemble the elements and create a structure for a strategic plan.

For more information about The Mill River Greenway Initiative, visit: http://millrivergreenway.org

MRGI's mission is to reconnect communities living along the Mill River to the assets of the river including its historic significance and ecological importance.

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Introduction

PROJECT GOALS & SCOPE Benefits of this document This document begins to compile the information that MRGI has gathered since 2009 when the members first conceived the Mill River Greenway.

Organizing the existing research, maps, projects, and case studies, the Conway project team explores the complex process of identifying potential connections along the Mill River. Guided by MRGI’s goal to bring people back to the Mill River by highlighting historical and ecological resources, the project team focused the project’s scope to include data organization, assessment criteria, and recommendations for future tasks and projects.

The scaffolding resources and increase human access to benefit both by analyzing ecological factors such as wildlife habitat and protected land, and human connections such as land ownership and historic sites near the river. This document also offers a methodology for organizing existing MRGI data and identifies a criteria for future human and ecological greenway opportunities.

Lastly, it suggests next steps that will ensure the continued implementation of the Mill River Greenway.

This project provides a framework that can be compared to a scaffolding for future implementation of the Mill River Greenway. Each component of the scaffolding moves the greenway forward.

The bulk of this document focuses on context analysis incorporating community feedback, identifying ecological and human corridors, and generating context sensitive solutions based on existing site conditions. All of these will result in broad recommendations for the organization.

The context will be elaborated on the following pages. A study methodology will then explain the process for identifying ecological and human corridors. Ecological and human corridors will be identified, and strategies for their intersections will be discussed. Lastly, broad recommendations will be made regarding next steps for MRGI to move forward with greenway planning.

This document explores how a greenway can enhance ecological

GOAL OF THE MILL RIVER GREENWAY INITIATIVE To reconnect communities living along the Mill River to the assets of the river including its historical significance, ecological importance, and recreational opportunities.

Supporting documents and deliverables include a Data Gap Analysis and a Master GIS Map. This information can be found in the Appendix. The Data Gap Analysis is a chart that identifies gaps in data sorted by village to highlight areas where MRGI can focus their efforts.

The Master GIS Map has many layers and can be used as a tool to identify site-specific projects. The contents and instructions for using the mapping tool can also be found in the Appendix.

GUIDING QUESTION

How can a greenway enhance ecological resources and improve human access along the Mill River for the benefit of both?

PROJECT SCOPE

• Compile existing data • Develop assessment criteria • Prepare recommendations

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

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CONTEXT

v

Connecticut River Watershed

v

Connecticut River

v

Mill River Watershed

v

The Connecticut River Watershed in light blue extends beyond political boundaries through Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Connecticut, finally flowing into the Atlantic Ocean. The Mill River Watershed (shown in green above) is a subwatershed within the Connecticut River Watershed.

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Context

MAPS & STATISTICS Watershed Area: 33,664 acres Distance from Highland Lakes (Goshen) to Oxbow (Easthampton): 15 miles Miles of Contributing Streams within Watershed: 328 miles Drop in elevation: 1,330 foot drop from Highland Lakes to the Oxbow Percentage of Impervious Surfaces Within Watershed: 2.9%* *The EPA notes that more than 10% impervious surface can negatively affect water quality.

Mill River Watershed Tributaries

Highland Lakes

Riv

er

Goshen

ill

(2005)

eM

The Mill River flows south out of its headwaters at Highland Lakes in Goshen at 1,440 feet above sea level for about 15 miles until it reaches the Oxbow in Easthampton at 110 feet above sea level. This dramatic 1,330 foot drop is notable in the northern reaches of the Mill River, as it winds through steep slopes and woody hemlock forests. As it increases in volume and widens out farther south, the power of the river is visible.

The first millsUse wereAlong constructed the Land Mill in RIver southern areas in the early 1660s, while the majority were built throughout the 19th century. Villages formed around those mills and developed farther north as industry flourished.

Mill River Watershed Facts

Th

The Mill River is located within the Connecticut River Watershed, and is part of the Pioneer Valley. The area is noted for its soils because it was once part of the glacial Lake Hitchcock that deposited ancient nutrient-rich sediment suitable for farming. Along with farming, the area has a long history of industry and water-powered industry along the many rivers that run through the area.

Searsville Williamsburg

Haydenville

Leeds Florence

Bay State Northampton

The Mill River Watershed, in darker blue above, is located in central Massachusetts and is part of the Pioneer Valley.

Easthampton

The Oxbow

See appendix for map reference

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HISTORY OF THE MILL RIVER The Nonotuck Native Americans had a permanent settlement in Northampton until 1654 when two dozen families of English Colonists occupied the area, centering their village where the Northampton Court House is currently located. The colonists exiled most of the Nonotuck Peoples by the year 1670.

For the first 150 years of colonial settlement in the Mill River watershed, most of the population remained in the area that is now downtown Northampton. By the 1660s, the

settlers built two dams on the Mill.

The first was just south of the current South Street Bridge at Clark Avenue, and the second dam was at Paradise Pond (see map on page 14).

After the American Revolution in the late 1700s, people began to settle upstream of Paradise Pond. By 1820, a string of factory villages had been established including Paper Mill Village in Bay State, and in Florence, Leeds, Haydenville, and Searsville. They thrived with the production from grist, saw, fulling, and textile mills.

Source: Historic Northampton Museum

1400s - Nonotuck Native Americans had permanent settlement at Fort Hill for at least 200 years.

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Source: Forbes Library

Source: Forbes Library

1660s - Settlers built two dams on

the Mill River, one at Clark Avenue and another at Paradise Pond.

1654 - Two dozen families of English colonists occupied hill where existing Court House is located.

The river became more channelized and dammed as village residents sought to control their water resources. Although accustomed to frequent flooding, nothing could prepare residents for the 1874 Williamsburg Dam Disaster that killed 139 people.

1874

LATE 1800S

1400S

By 1850, Florence had become the most important industrial site in the watershed with its silk and brush industries. Bay State became the site of cutlery and agriculture implement enterprises.

1800 - Mills were constructed in Florence, Leeds and Williamsburg including Searsville on the river’s west branch.

Late 1700s - People began to settle upstream of Paradise Pond.

Mills were constructed in Paper Mill Village, now part of Bay State.

Context

1850 - Florence had become the most important industrial site in the watershed with its silk and brush industries.

The 1874 Flood was a devastating event that obliterated Skinnerville and destroyed all factories from Williamsburg Center to Leeds. This flood coincided with the decline of water power, as steam-powered factories began to dominate in the 1870s and were later replaced by new sources of electricity in the early 1900s.

At that time, the Mill River was no longer used for power, and instead became a part of Northampton’s tourist economy.

1890S

Several Northampton residents considered plans to beautify the river which had become a place to dump effluent. The river, however, flooded far too often and destructively, so in 1940 the United States Army Corps of Engineers diverted the river away from downtown Northampton. The map on page 15 shows the historic and current routes of the Mill River south of the Army Corps diversion.

Source: Forbes Library

1900S

Source: Forbes Library

Late 1800s - Mill River was no longer used for power, but remained a component of Northampton’s tourist economy.

1874 - The Williamsburg dam disaster killed 139 people, obliterated Skinnerville, and destroyed all the factories from Williamsburg center to Leeds.

The Mill River has remained part of the lives of village residents, even as the industries have largely disappeared.

(Sinton et al. 2016)

The historic Mill River exists today with many channels, walls and dams that alleviate flooding, and directly affect

1936

1870s - Steam driven turbines increasingly replaced waterpower in most factories and by 1900, electric power dominated industry.

its ecology by blocking the connections of many species upriver.

Source: Forbes Library

Present - The Mill River remains a vital part of the lives of village residents, even as industries have largely disappeared.

Early 1900s - Several Northampton residents considered plans to beautify the river because it had become a place to dump effluent. The river, however, flooded far too often, so the Corps of Engineers diverted it away from downtown Northampton.

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HISTORIC SITES Mill River Historic Sites Goshen

Site of the 1874 Dam Failure Searsville

Williamsburg

Meekins Library

Skinnerville Brassworks Haydenville Leeds Cooks Dam Florence Bay State

Old Mill Raceways for the Cutlery and Paper Mill 1940 River Diversion

Historic Paper Mill Village Northampton

Easthampton

This map depicts locations of the historic sites discussed in the historic timeline (pages 12-13). In the southern part of the Mill River, the River Diversion site is where the river was redirected west of downtown Northampton because of frequent flooding events. Above Northampton is Paradise Pond which is a scenic pond on the Smith College campus. The historic Paper Mill Village (now known as Bay State) is farther north, where mill raceways for the cutlery and paper mill still stand. Cooks Dam results 14

Paradise Pond Hidden Mill River before 1720 Diversion

in a winding river in Leeds while the Brassworks Mill still stands tall near Haydenville and Williamsburg. Meekins Library in northern Williamsburg marks the area where the west and east upper river branches come together.

Northeast of the library is the site of the 1874 dam failure that devastated many of the mills downstream and sparked the move away from waterpowered industries in the Mill River Watershed.

Context

HISTORIC RIVER ROUTES Historic Mill River Routes Northampton

Paradise Pond

Location of Diversion

City Hall

Source: Forbes Library

The flood of 1936 turned downtown Northampton into “Little Venice�.

Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary

The Oxbow Connecticut River

Source: Forbes Library

The Army Corps of Engineers river diversion project was an engineering feat in the 1940s.

See appendix for map reference

The map above depicts the current route and the mouth of the Mill River and its historic route from 1710-1940.

The flood of 1936 was the last major flooding event before the Army Corps diverted the river's path (See image above, right).

The line in purple delineates the route the Mill River naturally took east through historic Northampton before the Army Corps of Engineers diverted its path west in 1940 (see bottom image, right). The main reason the Corps diverted its path was because the river flooded frequently and destructively through Northampton.

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

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COMMUNITY MEETINGS Community meetings were held to identify areas that local residents consider both opportunities and concerns for the greenway on February 2 and February 29, 2016. At the first meeting, three map sections (south, central, and north) were posted around the room, and the participants were prompted to make notes on the maps or draw potential connections.

At the second meeting, the methodology for considering future ecological and human corridors was presented. Community members considered specifics including the logistics of greenway development.

Because MRGI had already established many connections in the region, community leaders, ecologists, designers, and residents came together from all eight villages for the first time

to discuss a more cohesive vision.

The image on the bottom right shows community members discussing “What excites them about the Mill River Greenway�, and the other four images were taken during the milling activity when participants wrote notes on each map.

The community meeting on February 2, 2016 consisted of community members discussing what excites them about the Mill River, followed by a discussion about opportunities and concerns for the Mill River Greenway.

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Context

OPPORTUNITIES & CONCERNS The graphic below represents the main opportunities and concerns that participants voiced during the first meeting. The main opportunities were related to connecting areas that are already visited, adding informative signs, and improving the river’s health through invasive species remediation and water quality improvement. The main concerns included the effect that humans may have on existing wildlife

Link core habitats across river

Network of existing trails at Saw Mills and Look Park to Robert Meadows

and the impact of the greenway on private property.

The map found in the Appendix includes site-specific comments that were recorded during the milling activity. Participants made notes directly on three maps (south, central, and north) that covered the entire length of the Mill River. Direct quotes by town are organized in a numbered

list. Each number in the list coincides with a numbered location on the map.

The map shows there were far more opportunities that were expressed than concerns, representing the high level of excitement and support for the greenway.

Tubing and kayaking

Invasive species clean up

Improve water quality Community-created policing and restrictions

More access to swimming areas

OPPORTUNITIES

Informative signs about history and watershed

CONCERNS

Trail and vegetation maintenance Overuse and trash

Impact on landowners' privacy

Evacuation plan for 500 year flood

Dog walking without leash

Wildlife impact Unauthorized cars and dumping trash

Tree loss

Paths and trails could break up wildlife areas Illegal bonfires and camping

Opportunities and concerns from the first community meeting varied across ecological, historic and human interests.

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

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STUDY METHODOLOGY

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Study Methodology

IDENTIFYING CORRIDORS The question guiding this project is “How can a greenway enhance ecological resources and improve human access along the Mill River to benefit both?�

If a greenway brings people and ecology together, criteria is needed to examine the ecological resources surrounding the Mill River and also determine the human circulation patterns that can provide favorable access to these and other resources along the Mill River Greenway.

The following two pages present the methodology to determine criteria, analyze existing conditions and identify opportunities.

The hiking area in Devil's Den located in the northwestern reach of the Mill River is an example where human and ecological corridors intersect.

Human corridors and ecological corridors can coexist, but first a methodology is needed to identify where these corridors should or should not be implemented.

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ECOLOGICAL CORRIDORS Ecological Corridors The ecological significance of the diverse critical habitat and wildlife corridors along the 15 miles of the Mill River greenway is considerable.

BioMap2, jointly produced by the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) and the Nature Conservancy, is a strategic program to identify areas critical to biodiversity conservation in Massachusetts. BioMap2 provides a framework that identifies mostly unprotected habitats of rare animal and plant species and prioritizes natural communities. Together with a map that identifies existing protected lands, new opportunity areas become evident for the expansion and conservation of ecological corridors within the greenway. This process is further elaborated in the Ecological Corridors section.

BIOMAP2 PRIORITY LAND TO PROTECT

OPPORTUNITIES FOR ECOLOGICAL CORRIDORS To identify ecological corridors, priority habitat areas were mapped with existing protected land to identify corridor opportunities.

Clear water flows through protected open space in the northeast reach of the Mill River.

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EXISTING PROTECTED LAND

Fungus plays a healthy role in decomposing fallen trees in a protected space near the Mill River.

Study Methodology

HUMAN CORRIDORS Human Corridors

or a bike path. The Human Corridors section of this plan analyzes MRGI's identified opportunities in order to identify future opportunities. In order to perform this analysis, it was necessary to create criteria that help evaluate the quality of the existing corridors.

Where do people currently access the river and how? What are the issues of concern for landowners related to greenway planning and implementation? The answers to these questions identify opportunities for creating or enhancing access to the river.

Thorough review of MRGI data, including previous and current greenway projects, and discussion with community members led to the identification of four considerations that formed the criteria for analysis.

Human corridors include points of access, such as a parking lot with a trailhead. They also include connections between points of access to the river, such as a riverside trail

LAND USE

HISTORIC SITES AND OPEN SPACE

These include: 1. Land use along the river (commercial and residential vs. public) 2. Historic sites and open space along the river 3. Human proximity (distance between the river and roads / bike paths) 4. Topography

HUMAN PROXIMITY

TYPES OF OPPORTUNITIES

TOPOGRAPHY

FAVORABLE OPPORTUNITIES

FUTURE HUMAN CORRIDORS

These considerations guided the analysis of existing corridors. The analysis process, detailed in the Human Corridors section, explores land use and historic sites / open space to identify areas favorable for public points of access and connections to the river. Looking at human proximity and topography reveals different ways of connecting people to the river.

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ECOLOGICAL CORRIDORS

Glacial Lake Hitchcock in green (left) expanded across Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Connecticut at its largest extents approximately 14,000 years ago. This glacial lake created the unique corridor of the Connecticut River and the Pioneer Valley. A variety of species call this corridor home including those depicted on the right.

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Ecological Corridors

THE ECOLOGICAL CONNECTION What is an ecological corridor?

The Mill River’s current landscape was shaped by the retreat of the glacially formed Lake Hitchcock (on page 22).

Silts and clays from the bottom of Lake Hitchcock provide a thriving environment for a diversity of flora and fauna in this corridor.

The Mill River watershed’s 1,330 feet of elevation change made the river conducive for hydro-power. While the mills provided a source of power for the settlers, they also were responsible for much damage and alteration to the river corridor leading to subsequent contamination.

The river’s health has rebounded since villages were no longer able to dump effluent into the water and water regulations have become stronger. Today, clear water babbles south exposing beautiful stones and supporting the life of many rare species including salamanders, turtles, and fish. (Sinton, 2016) Still, many threats to the river are visible. In denser areas, developed land abuts the river with little to no riparian buffer. Homes are continuing to be built between the river and the various roads that border it, further reducing vegetated buffers.

Runoff from pollutant-ridden roads, fertilized lawns, and dense housing developments flows into the Mill River untreated. Limiting development directly along the river and encouraging vegetated buffers for properties that already border the river will reduce the impact of contaminated runoff and help to stabilize the banks.

Ecological corridors are created through connecting healthy space and critical habitat through enhancing the ecology along the river.

This section will identify areas already protected and land included in the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species’ BioMap2 throughout the watershed in order to identify opportunities for connecting ecological corridors.

Construction projects directly along the Mill River are still in progress and should be limited for the health of the Mill River to ensure public access to the river's edge. Erosion and sediment control are critical to preserving the health of the river.

Some properties directly abut the Mill River. Stormwater runs off of roofs directly into the water.

These properties were built before regulations restricted development within 200 feet of a river's edge. This pattern removes riparian habitat.

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EXISTING CONDITIONS Biomap2 Critical Habitat Protecting the quality of habitat along the Mill River can increase the ecological value of the greenway by strengthening and connecting existing corridors. The user experience would also be enhanced by connecting conservation parcels and providing potential public access routes.

BioMap2 was designed by the Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program (NHESP) and the Nature

Conservancy. Its mission is to guide strategic biodiversity conservation in Massachusetts over the next decade. BioMap2’s data consists of a combination of Core Habitat and Critical Natural Landscapes. Core Habitat refers to habitat that is “critical for the long-term persistence of rare species and other Species of Conservation Concern”, while Critical Natural Habitat consists of “large landscape blocks that provide habitat for wide-ranging native species” (BioMap2).

BioMap2 Core Habitat & Critical Natural Landscape

Notice on the map below that large patches of Critical Natural Landscape lie west and east of the river while core habitat lies directly along the river.

The river is home to species of concern including the Eastern Box Turtle, the Ocellated Darner, Adder’s Tongue Fern, and the Jefferson Salamander. BioMap2 is designed to protect ecologically important lands from development by creating a guide for strategic land acquisition. An abundance of critical habitat is found within the Mill River watershed, indicating that this is a critical area to protect with appropriate ecological connections.

2193 2179 2126

Eastern Box Turtle

2001

Goshen

2147

1322

Source: Carolyn Kaster

Ocellated Darner

Searsville Williamsburg 2015

Haydenville Source: Robert Allan

1955

Adder’s Tongue Fern

Leeds Florence

Bay State

Source: Josef Hlasek

Northampton

Legend 850

2943

BioMap2 Core Habitat BioMap2 Critical Natural Landscape

1666

Mill River Watershed

[

835

0

.5

Miles 1

Esri, HERE, DeLorme, MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS user community

See appendix for map reference BioMap2 Core Habitat & Critical Natural Landscape

24

Ecological Corridors

Jefferson Salamander Source: Patrick Zephyr

EXISTING CONDITIONS Existing Protected Land

profits, land trusts and conservation organizations. It also includes private land with conservation restrictions.

The map below displays the Massachusetts “Protected and Recreational Open Space” data that consists of all conservation land and outdoor recreation facilities as of March 2015. The land includes parcels owned by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR)'s Parks and Recreation, Department of Fish and Game, Department of Agricultural Resources, public non-

This map is important because it highlights opportunities for connecting protected lands through future land acquisition and easements such as those secured under Chapter 61 (see box on right).

The Mill River Greenway can connect these protected resources and connect people to these precious open spaces. It could also strengthen riparian corridors and habitat.

Existing Protected Land

CHAPTER 61 Chapter 61 is a law designed by the Massachusetts Legislature to tax property in Massachusetts at its timber, agricultural, or recreational value rather than its development value.

Landowners who enroll their land in the program receive property tax reduction in exchange for a lien on their property. This also gives the town the right of first refusal, which is a temporary form of protection.

The legislation was approved in 1973 and known as Chapter 61, the Forestland Act; Chapter 61A, the Farmland Assessment Act; and Chapter 61B, the Open Space Act.

Goshen

Searsville Williamsburg

Haydenville

Leeds Florence

Bay State Northampton

Legend

These organizations are some of the many that are protecting land throughout the Mill River Greenway.

Protected Open Space Mill River Watershed

[

Esri, HERE, DeLorme, MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS user community

0

.5

1

Miles 2

See appendix for map reference Existing Protected Open Space Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

25

POTENTIAL ECOLOGICAL CORRIDORS By overlaying lands identified in BioMap2 (lands to protect) with currently protected areas, potential corridors become visible that could connect existing protected areas (in purple) along the prioritized habitat (in green). Newly acquired protected land could be made accessible to the public.

Note that expanding human access might damage areas of critical habitat, and further research is necessary to determine which areas should preclude

Priority Land to Protect

human access and which might allow some human interaction. (See Strategies section for more detailed information.)

River watershed’s ecosystem health by providing protected corridors, additional oversight, and additional educational opportunities.

On the map below, the red arrows indicate potential ecological corridors based on their potential to connect critical habitat. These are areas that can enhance implementation of a greenway. Ecological connections in these areas would support the Mill

There are also areas of potential ecological corridors east and west of the river. When possible, broadening the greenway farther east or west would also be beneficial for wildlife movement in those areas.

Potential Ecological Corridor Connections

Goshen

Searsville Williamsburg

Haydenville

Existing Protected Land

Leeds Florence

Bay State Northampton

Potential Ecological Corridors

See appendix for map reference 26

Ecological Corridors

CASE STUDY Darby creek Greenway Plan Administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of Recreation and Conservation, and prepared by the Delaware County Planning Department in 2010, the Greenway Plan for the Darby Creek Watershed was developed as the first phase of greenway implementation.

Centered around the Darby Creek watershed which contains 76 square miles and 26 municipalities within Delaware County, the greenway is a proposed continuous network of trails and connections from one end of the watershed to the other. The county’s definition of the proposed greenway is “a linear system of connected natural and man-made elements that function together for public benefit”.

The five goals of the Darby Creek Greenway Plan are: 1. Conserving and preserving critical natural resources and unique environmental and historic character.

2. Providing a connected network of greenways that connect people to various destinations both in and out of the watershed 3. Improving and maintaining quality of life, well-being and economic health in the Darby creek watershed 4. Educating the public, policy makers and landowners about the benefits of greenways 5. Providing a framework with actions and policies for greenway implementation After detailing opportunities and challenges of 12 segments of the watershed study area in the plan, the following are examples of the recommendations made by the

Source: Delaware County Planning Department

Planning Department of Delaware County: • Organize a watershed-wide greenway task force that could serve as an instrument to assist municipalities with individual segment plans of the watershed • Prepare greenway segment plans for different municipalities which Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

• •

encourages different projects with a common purpose of implementing a greenway Pursue acquisitions and easements actively for conservation or trails Remove invasive plants and replant along the watershed (Delaware County Planning Department, 2010) 27

HUMAN CORRIDORS

There are many different types of greenways. While there are greenways that consist of dirt paths or trails, there are some trails that require a higher level of pavement and maintenance such as the concept drawn above.

Depending on the vision, a greenway can contain just one kind of path or a combination of different types of paths.

28

Human Corridors

THE HUMAN CONNECTION What is a human corridor?

The Mill River traverses a variety of physical, historical and ecological landscapes. Within these landscapes, a greenway can link bike paths, roadways, sidewalks, and trails in communities to strengthen people’s connections to village centers, recreational spaces, historic sites, and areas with ecological significance.

From hikers and cross country skiers to history lovers and tourists stopping at a small town cafĂŠ, the Mill River Greenway can provide a diverse network of experiences to a wide range of users.

Reconnecting people to these resources strengthens people’s relationships to their surroundings but also expands their impact on the land. The human corridor is where the environment and humans come together. Understanding where and how people connect with the landscape provides an analytical framework for planning a greenway along the Mill River.

Identifying new opportunities for connecting people to the river required the identification of criteria for human corridors. The criteria chosen included land use, historic significance, open space, topography, and human circulation. These factors contribute

to the variety of ways in which people interact with the river.

Analyzing land use, open space and historic land encourages a greenway that respects privacy of private properties while providing public access to historical and recreational resources. Human proximity and existing topography establish opportunity areas where the Mill River could be easily accessible due to the physical features throughout the four towns.

There are many types of human corridors. Some are picnic spots while others are bikeways or trails, or scenic lookouts. For the Mill River Greenway, human corridors are places where humans can renew their connection to the Mill River.

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

29

MRGI OPPORTUNITY AREAS Previously identified opportunitiy areas

criteria that can be used to identify additional opportunities.

From MRGI’s existing data, eight opportunity areas were mentioned repeatedly. Because these areas are clearly important to the overall greenway, these eight areas provide

The upper east branch in northern Williamsburg has been the site of an ongoing project with the Williamsburg Greenway Committee to establish hiking trails around the historic

MRGI Identified Opportunities

1

Park or Trails behind Brassworks

2

Rail Trail Dismount / South Main Street Connector

3

Florence Fields Corridor

4 Arts & Industry Pocket Park

Upper Watershed / Old Dam Site

5 6

Maines Field Lookout 7

Hidden Mill River

Access and Interpretation of the two Old Mill Raceways (Old Cutlery Building) 8

See appendix for map reference 30

Human Corridors

breeched dam from the flood of 1875.

Moving south near Williamsburg Center, successful ongoing projects are underway with the Brassworks Mill, building trails and a bikeway connector.

Areas in the southern part of the watershed - Florence Fields corridor, Arts and Industry pocket park, Maines Field lookout, old mill raceways at Federal Street and the old Cutlery Building, and the Hidden Mill River all cluster near village centers where public access exists.

These projects previously identified by MRGI consist of ongoing trail systems, research areas, yet to be established pocket parks or lookouts, and historic walking tours. The upper east branch and unused bikeway connector are ongoing trail projects. The Florence Fields corridor is a research area, while Arts & Industry pocket park and Maines Field lookout are yet to be formalized greenway points of access.

The old mill raceways, the Hidden Mill River destination, and Brassworks building are historic walking tour opportunities.

COMMON CHARACTERISTICS Land Use

open space

historical significance

Source: Forbes Library

Human Circulation

Criteria for analysis of human corridors From the eight opportunity areas that were identified by MRGI, some common characteristics became apparent. Property ownership plays a significant role because people’s private property is less favorable for greenway projects while publiclyowned land already accommodates public access. Historic sites reconnect people to the cultural resources of

existing topography

the Mill River and inform them of the river’s rich history. Open space provides opportunities for people to strengthen their relationship to ecological landscapes. Proximity to human circulation patterns determines how accessible the river already is to the community. Lastly, topography affects the types of opportunities available. Bike paths and gathering places such as parks are more likely to exist in flatter areas while hiking trails and lookouts are more likely to occur in steeper areas.

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

These common factors provide the framework for analyzing new human connections to the river. Land ownership, proximity to historic sites, and available open space are favorable for human circulation patterns.

Locations of existing bike trails and paths and the existing topography determine the various types of opportunities that are appropriate in different landscapes.

31

LAND USE Land Use - Residential & Commercial Property

Goshen

Searsville Williamsburg

Haydenville

Leeds Florence

Bay State Northampton

Many residential and commercial properties back directly up to the Mill River, limiting public access to the river's edge.

See appendix for map reference

Respecting the rights of landowners – residential and commercial – is an important aspect in determining where greenway facilities or features can be built. Community meetings held for this project served as a voice for landowners who did not want any trespassing to occur on their property.

Historically, residential and commercial properties were established in close proximity to the Mill River due to its powerful energy resource for factories and mill industries. Today in Northampton, residential and 32

commercial land ownership is farther east of the river, where the historic river used to flow. (See map on page 15 for the historic channel location.)

Adding trail connections in these areas should be avoided and instead link to a network of existing trails, sidewalks, and other places of interest.

At the northern headwaters in Goshen, there are fewer residentially and commercially developed parcels adjacent to the Mill River which could provide opportunities to build more trails along the Mill River if topography is favorable. From Williamsburg to Northampton, privately-owned properties that border the river start to increase in density as it moves south.

Current use and private ownership at the parcel scale could not be determined at this scale and would be advantageous for continued greenway implementation.

Human Corridors

LAND USE SUMMARY GREEN / more favorable

RED / less favorable

Observations

Areas where residential and commercial land use is less concentrated along the Mill River are shown in green. These areas could result in fewer conflicts with property owners’ need for privacy while providing more public opportunities for connections to wilder or less developed areas along the river.

Areas where residential and commercial land use borders the river are shown in red. These sections present opportunities for best management strategies to reduce negative impacts on the river. This can include adding vegetative stream buffers, encouraging lawn alternatives, increasing use of native garden plants, and limiting compaction.

Less concentrated areas of residential and commercial land use along the river provide potential opportunities for new trails and human connections to the river. Concentrated areas of residential and commercial land use moving south can create challenges for creating human connections.

Sections in red could lead to stewardship opportunities for people who live along the river to maintain its ecological health and opportunities for stewardship of existing trails.

New trails or access would require careful siting and negotiations with landowners.

Land Use Summary

Goshen

Searsville Williamsburg

Haydenville

Construction projects directly along the Mill River should be restricted as they negatively impact water quality and limit public access to the river's edge.

Leeds Florence

Bay State Northampton

See appendix for map reference

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

33

OPEN SPACE & HISTORIC LAND Open Space & Historic Inventory

Goshen

Searsville Williamsburg

Haydenville

Leeds Florence

Bay State Northampton

A greenway along the Mill River would highlight historic sites such as Meekins Library in Williamsburg (top) and reconnect people to ecological wonders such as the moss growing along the Mill River in Devil's Den (bottom).

See appendix for map reference

Open space and historic land along the Mill River provide communities with recreational opportunities and access to cultural and historic sites.

A greenway that connects these resources supports MRGI’s goal of bringing people back to the river.

34

Open space (defined as conservation lands and outdoor recreational facilities) along with historic sites designated by the Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC) overlap in many places along the Mill River. These connections provide

Human Corridors

opportunities to strengthen people’s relationship to the natural landscape and preserve the historical significance of the Mill River.

OPEN SPACE & HISTORIC LAND SUMMARY GREEN / Protected & designated historic

RED / Unprotected & not Observations designated historic Enhancing greenway access along

Areas where open space and/or historic land lie directly adjacent to the Mill River provide educational opportunities while illustrating where historic and ecological restoration may be in conflict.

Areas where open space and historic land do not lie along the river offer fewer opportunities to access ecological and historic resources unless additional areas are protected and preserved.

the green areas on the summary map could provide opportunities for recreation and historic interpretation.

These connections enrich a user’s experience as an outdoor classroom for hands-on environmental education and historic preservation. Also, a study of additional sites that should be designated as historic sites could be a next step for the continued implementation of the greenway.

Open Space & Historic Inventory Summary

Goshen

Searsville Williamsburg

Haydenville

Leeds Florence

Bay State Northampton

The photo above depicts a planting bed behind the historic Brassworks building along the Mill River. Historic and ecological education can thrive in areas near historic sites and open spaces.

See appendix for map reference

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

35

INTERSECTION The intersection of Land Use, Open Space, and Historic sites By overlaying the maps on the previous pages depicting land use, open space, and historic sites, different types of greenway opportunities become apparent. Combining these two maps create a “heat map� that indicates

Land Use

more favorable areas in green and less favorable areas in red.

Note that areas farther north have little to no residential or commercial use along the river with some sections that do not include designated historic or open space. While all of these areas are favorable for a greenway, the areas with existing open space or historic significance should take priority over those with no designated historic sites or open space.

Farther south where the two branches come together, residential and commercial land use become more prevalent while open space or historic sites become fragmented. Connecting these areas, while not conflicting with residential and commercial land use, will need to be addressed on a sitespecific basis.

Land Use & Open Space / Historic Sites

Goshen

Searsville Williamsburg

Haydenville

Open Space / Historic Leeds Florence

Bay State Northampton

See appendix for map reference 36

Human Corridors

FAVORABLE HUMAN CORRIDORS Favorable Human Corridors

Less Favorable Human Corridors

Goshen

Goshen

Goshen

Searsville

Searsville

Williamsburg

Williamsburg

Haydenville

Haydenville

Leeds

Haydenville

Leeds

Leeds

Florence Florence

Florence

Bay State

Bay State

Bay State Northampton

See appendix for map reference

more Favorable Human Corridors Identifying human corridors along the river through land use, open space, and historic sites reveals favorable areas for the implementation of a greenway that encourage public access and do not infringe on residential and commercial land uses. Circled green areas (left) identify areas where open space and historic sites do not conflict with residential and commercial

Williamsburg

Northampton

Northampton

See appendix for map reference

Less Favorable Human Corridors land uses. Building greenway trails in these areas encourages conservation, education, land stewardship, and historic preservation. Fundraising opportunities, volunteer support, environmental restoration, and community revitalization can also be encouraged.

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

Areas circled in red (right) are a combination of residential and commercial land use without protected open space or historic sites.

Red areas are less of a priority for Mill River Greenway access because of their lack of existing features of interest, but could be targeted for educational efforts that inform best management practices for the land.

37

HUMAN CIRCULATION Proximity to Roads & Bike Paths

Goshen

Searsville Williamsburg

Haydenville

Leeds Florence

Bay State Northampton

The raised bike path follows the river's edge near Leeds (top). In many cases, while existing roads make the Mill River very visible to drivers, roads also often act as a barrier preventing human access directly to the river's edge (bottom).

See appendix for map reference

Human circulation patterns help identify appropriate types of greenway opportunities based on the proximity of existing roads, parking areas, and trails to the river.

From Goshen to Haydenville, there are fewer roads, which concentrate traffic along main roadways such as Route 9. New trails can be created from these existing roads with the implementation of parking areas with

38

trailheads that verge towards the river.

Where Route 9 parallels the river, between Haydenville and Leeds, it offers high visibility and proximity for people along the road. Simultaneously, roads often act as a barrier preventing people from accessing the river’s edge.

Most of the roads are concentrated in the southern areas from Leeds to Northampton. There are two bike trails

Human Corridors

located in this area. The Manhan Rail Trail is a paved trail that is mostly flat with a total length of 6 miles within Easthampton. The trail continues into Northampton where it connects to a network of trails. From Northampton, bicyclists can follow the Mass Central Rail Trail which is a multi-use path that ends in Leeds. Moving north past Leeds, there are no other current bike paths.

HUMAN CIRCULATION SUMMARY YELLOW / Close to roads PURPLE / Farther from or trails roads or trails Areas shown in yellow are generally closer to existing roads and bike paths.

These areas offer opportunities for new trails off existing roads where topography permits (see analysis on Page 40). Other opportunities, such as park and ride lots can be provided where bikeways exists.

The river is more secluded in areas that are in purple with fewer roads close to the river. These roads and paths do not border the river and have less human access. They are also less impacted by traffic. Places to park with trailheads towards the river can provide more access.

observations Sections of the river in close proximity to existing roads and trails provide more visible or physical access with potential opportunities for an expansion of trails. This will vary on a site to site basis, as in many cases the road acts as a barrier or there is little room for parking areas.

Proximity to Roads and Bike Paths Summary

Goshen

Searsville Williamsburg

Haydenville

Leeds Florence

Bay State Northampton

Many roads along the river do not offer parking areas making it difficult for those driving near the river to access trails (top). Bike paths similar to the path from Easthampton to Northampton allow more human access (bottom).

See appendix for map reference

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

39

EXISTING TOPOGRAPHY Topography & Flood Zones

Goshen

Searsville Williamsburg

Steeper sections of land are more prone to erosion, especially during large storm events. This is visible from this storm drain along Old Goshen Road in close proximity to the Mill River.

Haydenville

Leeds Florence

Bay State Northampton

See appendix for map reference

This topography map shows 30-foot contours along the Mill River in orange and 100-year flood zones in light blue.

As larger storms and flooding events become more frequent, protecting land as a greenway could aid in retaining floodwaters and protecting adjacent villages specifically in these flood zones. Understanding this impact also means limiting new

40

Bike Paths with interpretive signs are common in flatter parts along the Mill River Greenway.

development along the river due to the ecological sensitivity of the landscape.

could include hiking trails and scenic lookouts.

The steepness of slopes along the river vastly affects the character of the river, and types of greenway opportunities.

The steeper slopes offer more dramatic views and could require erosion control in places. Steeper greenway sites

Flatter areas suggest different opportunities. They tend to be either floodplain or wetland habitat, or have already been developed. Flatter areas would also be easier to access with mixed use trails, gathering places, and interpretive signs.

Human Corridors

EXISTING TOPOGRAPHY SUMMARY YELLOW / flatter

PURPLE / steeper

Observations

The yellow areas denote relatively flatter land relative to its surroundings abutting the Mill River. Flat land may be more suitable for paved multi-use paths and walking trails.

Shown in purple are areas where steeper land is adjacent to the Mill River. Steeper sections may provide more hiking opportunities where trails can reach scenic views. These areas may be tougher to design based on slope stability and other factors.

Areas where the land is flatter provide more opportunities for humans to access the Mill River. Steeper areas, while more difficult to reach, can enhance different user experiences through challenging hiking trails, mountain biking trails, and park and ride scenic lookouts.

Topography & Flood Zones Summary

Goshen

Searsville Williamsburg

Haydenville

Leeds Florence

Bay State Northampton

The topography along the Mill River affects the accessibility to the river's edge. Steeper areas offer more challenging hiking trails (top) while flatter areas are easier to access (bottom).

See appendix for map reference

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

41

TYPES OF HUMAN CORRIDORS The intersection of human circulation and topography By overlaying human circulation patterns and the topography analysis, different types of opportunity areas become apparent.

opportunities such as pocket parks, parking areas with trail access, multi-use paths, and environmental education opportunities. The purple areas are steep with fewer connecting roads and have the potential to become secluded hiking areas, scenic lookouts, and educational research sites.

The yellow areas are flatter and closer to roads. These areas provide

None of these identified areas are more or less favorable. Instead, they

Human Proximity

display a variety of site conditions and opportunities along the river. Steeper, more secluded opportunities tend to be farther north while flatter, more accessible areas tend to be farther south.

Topography & Human Proximity

Goshen

Searsville Williamsburg

Haydenville

Topography Leeds Florence

Bay State Northampton

Steeper Land with Fewer Connecting Roads to the Mill River Flatter Land with Connecting Roads to the Mill River

See appendix for map reference 42

Human Corridors

NEW OPPORTUNITIES Compiled Analysis Map For New Opportunities

MRGI’s Previously Identified Opportunities

Goshen

New Opportunities Gained From Site Analysis Searsville Williamsburg

Haydenville

Leeds Florence

Bay State Northampton

Just as new opportunities for the Mill River Greenway are coming to life, Creeping Cedar (Lycopodium) grows on the forest floor as a measure of ecological integrity and connectivity.

See appendix for map reference

The yellow stars represent MRGI’s previously identified opportunities shown on page 30. The black circles represent additional opportunities indicated by the site analysis and reveal new opportunity areas that can be applied to the broader network.

MRGI’s previously identified locations align with the new opportunities.

The assessment at this broad scale, however, needs to be tested and focused on a more site-specific level in the future. See the recommendations in the Strategies section for more

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

information about site-specific opportunities.

43

STRATEGIES

44

Strategies

ECOLOGICAL AND HUMAN INTERSECTIONS How should ecological and human corridors intersect?

In order to continue to create a greenway that both connects humans to the Mill River and enhances the ecological habitat, the intersections of ecological and human corridors must be carefully considered.

Throughout the greenway, there are areas of critical ecological habitat. In many areas, human use has resulted in accumulated trash, compaction, unregulated mountain biking, river channelization, and erosion.

Moving forward, human impacts on the environment should be carefully considered, avoided, minimized or mitigated while best management practices should be considered.

Designing low impact paths, planting vegetated riparian buffers, and incorporating green slope stabilization methods will be necessary to ensure the long-term stability of the landscape. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in Georgia has a thorough guide for slope stabilization.

The diagram below depicts one method presented in their Streambank and Shoreline Stabilization guide. This method incorporates a vegetated

geogrid that uses both plantings and a natural geotextile material to strengthen riverbank slopes. (Georgia Environmental Protection Division, 2011) Along with minimizing human impacts, stewardship of the river is needed along its length. Stewardship groups should be established based on location. After assessing the health of the Mill River, these groups can form around areas that need ecological restoration including slope stabilization, invasive species mitigation, habitat enhancement, and corridor extension. These areas can also be used as research sites, and be adopted by friends groups.

Geotextile Fabric

Live Stakes

Low Impact Path along Mill River with Information about Slope Stabilization

Rock Fill

River Streambed

Live stakes, often willows, are planted horizontally into a slope with geotextile fabric between each stake in order to hold soil in place while the stakes take root and eventually stabilizes the slope. Other examples of shoreline restoration include coconut husks and living shoreline techniques.

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

45

CONTEXT SENSITIVE SOLUTIONS Human access Implementation options based on existing conditions Because the Mill River is 15 miles long and has a variety of site conditions, implementation options based on existing site conditions will help identify what types of human uses are appropriate in different locations.

Context sensitive solutions, or implementation options based on

Historic Site or Open Space?

Proximity to Roads & Parking

boxes based on the existing site conditions described in the flow chart.

To identify human corridor options, the flow chart below explores the appropriate types of opportunities based on the existing conditions along the Mill River.

This decision matrix can be used on a broad scale to identify the best design solution based on a site’s existing site conditions. (Details about each solution can be found on pages 48 and 49.)

Starting with property ownership, the chart filters through all of the site conditions evaluated in the Human Corridor section. The implementation options, or solutions, are in turquoise

When site-specific solutions are proposed, information will need to be gathered to ensure that impacts are avoided and the design is appropriate at the site-specific scale.

Property Ownership

public

yes

no

existing conditions, will identify design options based on a variety of site conditions.

Proximity to Roads & Parking

private

Steep Slopes?

yes

no no

yes

no

Car Park with Informative Trails along River

Steep Slopes? no

Historic Walking Tour with Chip Path

yes

Universally Accessible Trail or View Hike Trails Scenic Lookout 46

Multi-use Path, Diverges from Road along River Strategies

yes

Historic or Ecological Hike Trails with Informative Signs

Scenic Lookout with Informative Signs

Neighborhood Stewardship Opportunity Invasive Mitigation, Slope Stabilization, Education

Ecological Restoration Options Based on Existing conditions While identifying appropriate implementation options for human access is an integral part of the Mill River Greenway, context sensitive solutions for ecological conditions are also needed.

The restoration options in the green boxes below can be applied to specific sites based on the existing conditions of the Mill River at that location.

Further research will be required to identify areas where ecological solutions are necessary and human access should be limited.

There are several resource assessment tools available that result in data that could guide future decisions. The

method used should be simple and easily replicable by volunteer groups.

One method is the Stream Corridor Assessment Survey (SCA, see box on right).

Below, the chart identifies four conditions that are found along the Mill River with solutions that respond to those conditions. More detailed solutions can be found on pages 50 and 51.

In order to complete these solutions, a strong non-profit structure is necessary to coordinate volunteer efforts, write grants, and provide the framework needed for future efforts.

Non-profit status for MRGI could result in a variety of benefits related to funding of projects and overall donations. See Recommendations section for more information.

STREAM CORRIDOR ASSESSMENT SURVEY The SCA Survey is a simple, easily replicable resource assessment tool developed by the state of Maryland.

It was designed to assess the physical conditions of a stream system and identify the location of a variety of common environmenal problems within stream corridors.

Data gathering consists of walking along the river and plotting through GPS-specific locations of environmental concern that can be mapped for future planning and assessment.

The SCA methodology is recommended because it is a simple process where an entire system can be assessed over a long period of time by people with limited technical skills.

Eroding bank from steep slopes or overuse

Widespread invasive species

Property or road directly borders the river

Impervious surface or ‘hot spot’ is adjacent to the river or unidentified pipes discharge into river

Green Slope Stabilization Techniques

Invasive Species Mitigation

Vegetated Buffer Between River & Property / Road

Water Quality Monitoring and/or Phytoremediation

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

47

HUMAN CORRIDOR DETAILS The following conditions and solution examples coincide with the human context sensitive solutions discussed on page 46.

Conditions

Solution Examples

Steep or flat land with ecological or historic significance Solution: Trail with informational signs about ecology or history

Flat land with road that comes close to the river but lacks pathways connecting the road to the river Solution: Multi-use path that diverges away from road along the river

Flat or steeper area with fewer connecting roads along the river Solution: Car park with multi-use trails to the river's edge

48

Strategies

Conditions

Solution Examples

Existing bike path parallel to the river but does not offer access Solution: Bike parking with trails to the river

Steeper area with existing road or path that comes close to the river Solution: Scenic lookout adjacent to road with interpretive signs

Flatter area with roads that come close to the river Solution: Universally accessible trails

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

49

ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION DETAILS The following conditions and solution examples coincide with the ecological restoration options based on existing conditions discussed on page 47.

Conditions

Solution Examples Geotextile Fabric

Eroding bank from river scouring or overuse.

Live Stakes

Solution: Green slope stabilization techniques incorporating live staking or living shoreline techniques.

Rock Fill

River

Streambed

Widespread invasive species (e.g. Japanese knotweed or oriental bittersweet crowding out native plants) Solution: Invasive Species Mitigation

Stewardship groups can work together on invasive species removal or native habitat restoration.

50

Strategies

Conditions

Solution Examples

Property or road directly borders the river Solution: Encourage vegetated buffer between river and property or road through communication with landowners on a site-specific basis.

Minimizing compaction and exploring lawn alternatives can also help the river's health.

Private Property

Vegetated Riparian Buffers

Mill River

Transpiration of transformed contaminants

Impervious surface or ‘hot spot’ is adjacent to the river or pipes discharge into river

Contaminants broken down in soil

Solution: Water quality monitoring and/or phytoremediation with plants such as poplar or willow

Roots stabilize contaminants

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

Roots extract contaminants

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RECOMMENDATIONS

"To make a greenway is to make a community."

Charles E. Little, Author of Greenways for America

52

Recommendations

NEXT STEPS The analyses conducted in this document form the recommendations for the continued establishment of the Mill River Greenway, as referenced with the scaffolding metaphor on page 9.

Moving forward, detailed assessments regarding land use, proximity to ecologically sensitive areas, parcel

Improve Organizational Structure Since 2009, MRGI has accomplished a sustained effort in terms of community engagement, project development, and program marketing. As an informal community group, it has gained organizational momentum and has achieved several research projects, feasibility studies, data collection, and project collaboration.

Obtaining 501(c)(3) status as a non-profit organization could coalesce the group’s efforts into a structured organization with the necessary framework. Becoming a non-profit organization provides leverage for fundraising by charitable contributions and eligibility for grants.

data, and perceived threats to the river are necessary. A corridor-wide assessment study will determine the feasibility of constructing greenway features such as trails and overlooks.

Methodologies and recommendations may change as a result of more detailed assessments.

address gaps in physical data A working data gap analysis document has been created which compiles all existing data with placeholders for future data. It is arranged by each village’s current progress in categories that provide necessary steps.

develop network map of proposed trails In this greenway initiative, many potential trails and connections continue to be identified through community feedback and MRGI leadership. Mapping trail options supports the planning of the greenway by providing an overview of possible connections. Illustrating conceptual ideas in a detailed network map of proposed trails could provide a platform for grant applications and targeted fundraising. It can also designate potential and existing destinations that have not yet been accessed while assessing user demand on areas without trails.

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

Given the scope of this project, the following are broad recommendations that can move the overall greenway project forward.

Categories such as community meetings, existing mapping, vegetation type, parcel data information, and historic points of interest are the few that are used to determine progress and next steps.

Continuing to fulfill the data gaps and addressing the next steps for each village effectively will enable MRGI to engage in a comprehensive strategy.

prepare network map of existing trails A comprehensive document of all existing recreational trails provides multiple benefits: it assesses what connections are available, helps evaluate new areas of connectivity and access points, provides a wide spectrum of user input, details historic and recreational sites, and presents connectivity gaps.

53

NEXT STEPS assess the mill river and stream corridors Understanding the ecological health of the Mill River and its contributing streams can identify and prioritize areas for remediation and protection.

While restoration efforts previously have addressed many of the point source pollution problems, focus is also needed on non-point pollution sources along the river

Identify regulatory techniques for land use Encouraging local ordinances to consider land use controls in critical places along the river can help conserve and protect the greenway's

Promote best management practices for the land In less favorable areas along the Mill River where there are areas of private land use without protected open space or historic sites, these areas

54

and streams that allow runoff from impervious surfaces to enter the river untreated. An assessment of the general physical condition of the Mill River stream system, such as the SCA method mentioned on page 47, would provide a map that identifies both ecological and human impacts on the river that can be used to prioritize restoration efforts. It also would provide a quick assessment of habitat conditions based on different sections of the contributing streams.

natural corridors. Evaluating where the land is environmentally sensitive such as where riparian buffers, floodplains or steep slopes occur would provide the towns with better information regarding the river's assets and challenges for long-term conservation and preservation.

can become educational opportunities for applying best management practices.

Installing riparian buffers along the streams, encouraging rain gardens and rain barrels, removing invasive plants, and exploring lawn alternatives can educate landowners the importance

Recommendations

continue community outreach Continuing to gain the support of all the communities along the river provides a sustained effort in implementing the greenway.

Events such as community meetings, volunteer projects, and member-led restoration activities build an extensive network of human resources that will be beneficial throughout the initiative. Finding fundraising opportunities and securing grants for the greenway become easier with community support.

Educational opportunities such as workshops, river walks, lectures, and slide show presentations offer opportunities for a wide variety of audiences to learn about the history and ecology of the Mill River.

of landscape sustainability and resilience. Seeing these practices installed can create a ripple effect once landowners begin to understand the importance of the landscape along the Mill River.

strengthen partnerships Building on the collaborative partnerships that MRGI has already established, improved relationships with local, regional, and state agencies would provide MRGI the foundational support needed to move the greenway forward.

Working closely with both local volunteer and non-profit groups as

Register Historic Sites Communities can be formidable advocates for creating a historic preservation plan for their towns. Creating a preservation plan to identify cultural and

well as the local departments of Public Works and the state Department of Conservation and Recreation can result in a synergistic effect: benefits can be derived for everyone involved.

To achieve ecological conservation within such a diverse landscape as the Mill River corridor will require a coordinated effort among towns.

Cultivating a relationship with the Department of Ecological Restoration’s Riverways Program

historic resources along the Mill River can strengthen and support the continued implementation of the Mill River Greenway. The Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC) provides a wide range of services such as grant programs that can help with restoration and rehabilitation of historic sites. With

Building a Strategic Plan for the Mill River Greenway

can initiate monitoring data for watershed stream flow. Alliances with land trusts and non-profit organizations such as Rails to Trails can provide contacts with a variety of agencies that can help with greenway implementation. In addition, partnering with elementary schools, high schools, and universities can strengthen MRGI’s relationships within the communities while influencing future generations.

each town identifying and locating buildings, structures, and landscape characteristics that have historical value, support builds for not only the importance of the town but also for the greenway.

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APPENDIX Appendix A. Master GIS Map Appendix B. Data Gap Analysis Appendix C. Opportunities and Concerns Comments with Map Appendix D. Human Corridor Opportunities Appendix E. Map References and Literary Reference

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Appendix

A. MASTER GIS MAP This list on the right is an image of all of the layers gathered for the "Master GIS" map prepared as a part of this project. These layers are organized into five categories: feedback from the community, transportation, land use and zoning, resource, and facilities. Feedback from the community includes points gathered during a meeting in Williamsburg from a previous project. Transportation includes 2010 tiger roads, land use and zoning includes Assessor Lots for each town and 2005 land use. Resources include conservation / recreation resources, physical / ecological resources, cultural resources, and inland water features. Lastly, facilities include dams.

These .shp files will be attached as a separate document through DropBox, and MRGI will have a copy of the ArcMap file along with all layers so they can do their own site-specific analysis as their project moves forward.

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B. DATA GAP ANALYSIS Below are images of the Data Gap Analysis organized and gathered with support from the MRGI team. This organization was a critical first step in our project to see what data exists and what data is missing at the village level. Moving forward, MRGI can use this gap analysis chart to target what projects need to be completed at the village scale.

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C. OPPORTUNITIES & CONCERNS COMMENTS The comments listed below were transcribed from post-it notes taken directly from community members during the February 2, 2016 community meeting at the Florence Civic Center. The numbers next to each comment coincide with the locations numbered on the right. Yellow stars represent opportunities while red stars represent concerns.

EASTHAMPTON

Bay State

LEEDS

1. Access parking at southern edge of Oxbow for kayakers and hikers 2. Kayaking opportunities across Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary in the spring 3. Historic town boundary markers on Eton-Niton line 4. Historic allotments from trolley line on railroad in the historic Arcadia Oxbow

14. I have heard that beyond the Cutlery factory the soil is contaminated?

15. Overuse is a problem here – erosion, etc.

16. Possibility of bridge From Federal Street to Smith Fields?

17. Opportunity of bridge from Federal Street to Smith Fields?

18. New stormwater project will create a permanent road to the old canal

25. City-owned land “Tacy Parcel” 26. Overuse, partiers, trash, invasives 27. Hotel Bridge 1880 Prattthrough truss iron bridge oldest bridge of its kind in MA – needs invasive management

NORTHAMPTON 5. Historic Mill housing could have sign explaining what it is / it was (old South Street) 6. Please make a trail along the old Mill River bed 7. Connect Pulaski Park to historic “Hidden Mill” 8. Dam under bridge along route 10, north of Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary - historic Oxbow 9. Path atop dike – Connect to meadows?

10. Include Smith College greenhouse and botanic garden 11. Great area to view spring wildflowers 12. Ideal spot for pedestrian bridge crossing behind Northampton High School to access former state hospital grounds 13. Path of historic mill riverbed (Hidden Mill) would have to cross route 5 and 10

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FLORENCE 19. Opportunity for lookout where Maines Field parking lot currently is 20. Serious invasive species concern 21. Pocket park near Arts and Industry Building to brush to Smith College are 23. Bridge / connector between Look Park & Florence Fields?

24. Hiking trail from Grow Food Community Gardens

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HAYDENVILLE 28. Develop public area 29. Brassworks 30. Skinnerville

WILLIAMSBURG 31. Privacy concern 32. Williamsburg Woodland Trails Committee is planning construction of new public access trail to ruins of failed dam

OPPORTUNITIES & CONCERN MAP Opportunities and Constraints from Feb 2, 2016 Community Meeting

Goshen

32

Arts and Industry Building in Florence

Williamsburg

31

30

Haydenville

29

Maines Field Parking Lot in Florence

28

Leeds

27 26

25

Florence

23 24 21 22

Mill River Greenway Trail in Bay State 19

20

Bay State

18 14 12 16 11

15

6 5

13 9

2

4 3

7

10

8

Easthampton

Northampton

1

Compiled Opportunities and Constraints From the February 2, 2016 Community Meeting

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Steep Slopes in Northampton

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D. HUMAN CORRIDOR OPPORTUNITIES This chart shows the complete process in finding new human corridors described in the methodology section and elaborated upon in the human corridors section.

Community Feedback

Existing Historic Sites

MRGI Data

Previous Efforts

Ongoing Projects

Site Visits & Client Meetings

MRGI Identified Opportunities

Land Use

Human Circulation

Historic Land

Open Space

Favorable Opportunities

Existing Topography

Types of Opportunities

New Human Corridor Opportunities

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E. MAP REFERENCES Data used in the production of the maps in this report comes from several sources as outlined below. In several instances, certain layers have been processed and combined in various ways through the analysis process.

Office of Geographic Information (MassGIS), Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Information Technology Division: EOT Roads 2008, 1:5000 Contours, MassDEP Hydrograpy, Shaded Relief, Towns Poly, TIGER Roads, NHESP Certified Vernal Pools, Open Space, BM2 Critical Natural Landscape, BM2 Core Habitat, FEMA Q3 Flood Zones, Topography, Assessor Lots, Bike Trails, CAPS Data, Land Use 2007, MHC Historic Sites, Major Basins Geospatial Data Gateway: Areal Photography (NAIP2012).

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LITERARY REFERENCES BioMap2, Conserving the Biodiversity of Massachusetts in a Changing World.

Massachusetts Department of Fish & Game and the Nature Conservancy, 2010 Chapter 61. 189th General Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 2016.

Web. March 2016 Delaware County Planning Department. "Greenway Plan for the Darby Creek Watershed." Delaware County Pennsylvania Environmental Planning. Bureau of Recreation and Conservation, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, 2010. Web. March 2016 Georgia Environmental Protection Division. "Streambank and Shore Stabilization: Techniques to Control Erosion and Protect Property." Environmental Protection Division of the State of Georgia. Department of Natural Resources, 2011. Web. March 2016 Northampton Dept. of Planning and Sustainability. “Redevelopment Plan for the Historic Mill River.� 2005 Sinton, John. Mill River Greenway. Mill River Greenway Initiative. Web. March 2016 Smith, Daniel & Hellmund, Paul Cawood. Designing Greenways: Sustainable Landscapes for Nature and People. 1993 Yetman, Kenneth T. "Stream Corridor Assessment Survey: Survey Protocols," 2001. Web. March 2016

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BUILDING A STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE MILL RIVER GREENWAY The Mill River Greenway would connect communities living along the Mill River to the area's rich history, recreational land, ecological wonders, bike paths, and hiking trails. It would build community engagement, get people outside, and provide historic and cultural educational opportunities. This document seeks to inspire the foundation of a strategic plan for the Mill River Greenway by identifying opportunities for ecological and human corridors and considering how the two intersect.

Context sensitive solutions and broad recommendations are made for the Mill River Greenway Initiative to continue their success in creating the Mill River Greenway.

The Conway School is the only institution of its kind in North America. Its focus is sustainable landscape planning and design and its graduates are awarded a Master of Science in Ecological Design degree. Each year, through its accredited, ten-month graduate program students from diverse backgrounds are immersed in a range of real-world design projects, ranging from sites to cities to regions. Graduates play significant professional roles in various aspects of landscape planning and design.

Prepared for the Mill River Greenway Initiative Prepared by Margot Halpin & Armi Macaballug The Conway School Winter 2016