Bernardston’s Center Village Hydrology
July 5, 2017
John Lepore
What are long term solutions that address the failing septic systems and periodic flooding in Bernardston’s Center Village? How are these problems related to sedimentation, water consumption, soil profiles, the area’s 100-year floodplain, and the changing water table? Know Fox Hill Stream is a major contributor to flood water during extreme events:
• Sedimentation originates on the hill and much of it is being deposited at the end of the Cushman Park culvert before reaching Darwin Scott Memorial Wetland (DSMW);
• Replacement of the culvert is a temporary solution, but ongoing permitting with DEP is necessary to remove accumulating sediments; and
• DSMW is regulated by the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Wildlife which holds the unlimited authority to protect this natural resource regardless of Bernardston’s needs. In 2014 a number of septic systems in Center Village failed; a number of businesses and residents face ongoing battles of backup:
• About 50% of the soils in a preliminary study showed that the water table sits at or near the surface;
• Hard data from USGS groundwater measurements at MA-DFW 44 Deerfield, MA, reveal a regional rise in the water table from 1964 to the present;
• Consistent town water table records are not available; and
• According to NOAA, the frequency of short, intense weather events is increasing.
We need long term solutions.
Don’t Know
Resolution
How much water flows from this source especially during an extreme storm event?
With the help of Bernardston Highway Department (BHD) and GIS mapping technology, find the full extent of the Fox Hill watershed.
What are all of the water sources contributing to the rising water table in Center Village (CV)?
With the support of the Bernardston Fire and Water District (BFWD), the BHD and GIS, find the full extent of the DSMW watershed and all of the water sources including:
• Stream flows from other sources;
• Culverts; and
• Water consumption by residents/ businesses.
From this data determine the volume entering and exiting the watershed.
Where are problematic septic systems located, and what is their relationship to elevation, soil type, lack of septic system maintenance, and the 100-year floodplain where a storm such as Irene could further contribute to these problems?
How can we solve this water problem to support the town’s sustainable economic development?
The Bernardston Board of Health (BBOH) has records that can be used to create GIS maps that show the relationships between these various perimeters.
GIS can also help with creating ‘what if’ storm event scenarios that could be useful in planning and design:
• The results could be analyzed to determine long-term solutions such as the locations of bio-swales and detention basins and alternative septic designs; and
• An essential ingredient is the stakeholders’ need to be educated regarding the full extent of the issues and their roles in long-term solutions.
Once this information is clear, the town will have enough data to apply for grants that address resolution.