Introduction
The Jones River Estuary exemplifies a traditional New England salt marsh, characterized by its distinctive appearance and ecological roles, yet it suffers from significant impairments The presence of roads and railways disrupts natural water flows and wildlife movement, while invasive species like Phragmites thrive, particularly in areas affected by human activity Furthermore, the water quality is classified as impaired (303(d) category 5), leading to a decline in species diversity and a degradation of essential ecological functions These challenges are particularly evident in the Stony Brook and Tussock Brook tributary system that feeds into the Jones River.
Stony Brook, also known as Halls Brook, features a dam that creates an artificial head of tide and obstructs fish passage just 0.3 miles from its mouth The brook's entrance is further restricted by tidal limitations at Landing Road as it flows into the Jones River Each year, anadromous fish, such as smelt and river herring, attempt to reach the dam but encounter inadequate spawning habitats The marshland spanning approximately 15 acres from the brook's mouth to the dam is largely dominated by Phragmites Similarly, Tussock Brook has a tide gate beneath Route 3 that restricts tidal flow across about 25 acres of former salt marsh, leading to significant sediment buildup and a near monoculture of Phragmites Collectively, these two tributary systems and their floodplains represent a significant opportunity for salt marsh migration and restoration on the South Shore, as documented in the 2001 Atlas of Tidal Restrictions in Massachusetts.
The Jones River Watershed Association (JRWA) is actively engaged in a community-driven restoration initiative aimed at enhancing fish passage, flow management, water quality, and habitat improvements in the Jones River and its sub-basins This program targets the well-being of various fish species, including alewife, blueback herring, American shad, and brook trout, among others The restoration efforts will also support higher trophic level fish that rely on anadromous species in the Jones River system, benefiting over a dozen state and federally managed marine fish species To safeguard essential habitats, JRWA has successfully facilitated multiple land acquisitions throughout the river corridor and estuary.
Sea level rise and climate change are expected to drastically diminish salt marshes, which serve as vital coastal buffers and productive habitats As outer salt marshes disappear, it is crucial to identify potential inland areas for the migration and establishment of new marshlands However, the highly developed Massachusetts coastline poses challenges, as private properties and hard infrastructure restrict available space for marsh migration Stony Brook and Tussock Brook present a unique opportunity, as they consist of large former salt marsh areas with moderate infrastructure and ownership issues Although significant impairments exist, the land remains largely open space, and the challenges related to infrastructure are potentially reversible and manageable.
JRWA is currently working on a comprehensive restoration, management, and maintenance plan for the Stony Brook and Tussock Brook areas While certain improvements in these locations may appear straightforward, JRWA recognizes that effective restoration requires more than just quick fixes.
The project area has various names, including 'Stony Brook', 'Stoney Brook', and 'Halls Brook', which all refer to the same water body, while 'Landing Rd' is sometimes incorrectly called 'Loring Rd' The health of aquatic species and river systems is paramount, making the development of a scientifically sound restoration plan essential for the long-term vitality of Stony and Tussock Brooks This plan will incorporate clearly defined performance measures and adaptive management strategies to ensure sustainable functionality in a changing landscape.
Section 2 contains a detailed characterization of the project area Section 3 sets restoration goals Section
Section 4 presents solutions designed to meet the identified goals, drawing on insights from the characterization Meanwhile, Section 5 details the implementation plan, incorporating adaptive management strategies to ensure sustained effectiveness in an evolving landscape.
The current project is funded from the U.S Environment Protection Agency (EPA) through the
Massachusetts Bays Program (MBP) which is hosted by the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone
Figure 1 Project Site Locus Map
Figure 2 Satellite Photo of General Project Area
System Characterization
Watershed Boundaries and Land Use
The Stony Brook and Tussock Brook watersheds are important sub-basins of the larger Jones River watershed, covering an area of about 4.91 square miles, which includes tidal regions within the estuary Data illustrating these sub-basins can be found in Figure 4, sourced from USGS Massachusetts.
Streamstat is located at the upper reaches of Stony Brook, where it drains from Blackwater Pond The JRWA has collaborated with the MA Division of Marine Fisheries to evaluate the habitat of Blackwater Pond Although this report highlights Blackwater Pond as a crucial habitat area with potential for future restoration, it is not the primary focus of this plan.
Land use in the sub-basin is predominately forest (42.8%) and residential (32.3%) with smaller contributions coming from cranberry bogs (3.8%), power lines (2.7%), cropland (2.4%), commercial (2.3%), and other uses (GZA 2003)
Figure 4 Stony/Tussock Brook Watershed Boundaries (USGS StreamStats)
Hydrology
In 2003, a comprehensive study on the Jones River was carried out to create a water use inventory and analyze inflow and outflow within its watershed and subbasins This research was conducted by GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc under the auspices of the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Management's Office of Water Resources, in collaboration with the Massachusetts Executive Office of Environmental Affairs Watershed Initiative Key drainage and flow details were sourced directly from the GZA report.
The Jones River watershed exhibits baseflow values averaging 3.0 cfsm (12.4 cfs) in April and dropping to 1.0 cfsm (4.3 cfs) in September Total streamflow peaks at 3.7 cfsm (15.2 cfs) in April, with a low of 1.3 cfsm (5.3 cfs) in September Although there are no public water supplies in the watershed, summer and fall withdrawals can reduce flows by approximately 0.6 cfs Future flow predictions remain consistent with current estimates, as no additional water supply withdrawals are expected During dry years, baseflow predictions decrease to 0.7 cfsm (2.8 cfs) in September and 1.2 cfsm (4.9 cfs) in April, while dry conditions yield streamflow estimates of 0.8 cfsm (3.2 cfs) in September and 1.4 cfsm (5.8 cfs) in April Additionally, natural low flow conditions are slightly diminished by developed conditions, particularly in July, approaching a reduction of up to 0.7 cfs.
Figure 5 is reproduced from GZA Figure 5-13A and shows this water budget for this subbasin:
Figure 5 Stony/Tussock Brook Subbasin Water Budget for Average Precipitation Conditions
Flood Plains
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) mandates that municipalities conduct floodplain mapping and create management plans to qualify for federal flood insurance, which is crucial for water quality protection and restoration efforts Floodplains, when flooded, serve vital ecological functions and provide essential habitats for various fish and wildlife, particularly as spawning and rearing areas Additionally, floodplain wetlands function as nutrient and sediment sinks, enhancing water quality in nearby streams, and provide crucial water storage that mitigates downstream flooding, benefiting both aquatic life and riparian landowners FEMA floodplain maps for the project area indicate that zone classifications are consistent above and below the tide gate, suggesting that FEMA does not currently view the tide gate as a factor influencing flooding potential in the upstream areas.
Figure 6 FEMA Flood Zone Designations for the Project Area
Dams, Structures, and Tidal Restrictions
The project largely revolves around a series of tidal restrictions in the project area The Atlas of Tidal
Restrictions on the South Shore of Massachusetts (2001) was prepared by the Metropolitan Area Planning
Council and funded by the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs Massachusetts Wetlands
The Atlas Restoration Program identifies and prioritizes tidal restrictions on the South Shore of Massachusetts that negatively affect upstream tidal wetlands Key restrictions documented include the tide gate on Tussock Brook, the dam on Stony Brook, and the bridge at Landing Road, along with their related marshes.
Built in 1954, the bridge and culvert that allow Landing Road to cross Stony Brook are identified in the Tidal Atlas as KIJR 3 The Atlas highlights current conditions and potential remediation strategies, emphasizing the culvert's high restoration priority due to its significant impact area of over 20 acres, the presence of anadromous fish, and possible upstream benefits However, despite these factors, the feasibility of restoration is rated as "low" due to the culvert's good condition and the high costs associated with expanding its size.
Figure 7 Atlas of Tidal Restrictions Description of Landing Road Bridge/Culvert
Figure 8 Culvert Under Landing Road (KIJR3) Looking Downstream
Figure 9 Culvert Under Landing Road (KIJR3) Upstream
Route 3 and the culvert passing Tussock Brook were built in 1954 Figure 10 shows a detail of the highway construction plans (MA Bridge No K-1-13, 1954) The detail shows the relocation of Tussock Brook as part of the highway construction Based on these plans it appears that the brook was greatly reduced in width and that a significant meander was removed in order to channelize it through the culvert The culvert is 145 ft long, 10 ft wide and 13 ft high
Figure 10 Highway Plan Detail Showing Relocation of Tussock Brook
The highway plans from 1954 detail the culvert construction but do not mention the tide gate, and there are no records or permits found regarding its installation The Tidal Atlas identifies the culvert and tide gate on Tussock Brook as KITB 8, prioritizing it for restoration due to its significant impact area, potential for supporting anadromous fish, and upstream benefits Current conditions and remediation approaches are outlined in the Tidal Atlas, accompanied by photos of the culvert's upstream and downstream sides The Tidal Atlas refers to the structure as a "dam," which raises questions about whether this pertains to the low dam at the culvert's bottom or the "flapper" style tide gate, highlighting the importance of understanding its design and function.
1 The gate is designed to pass water under the structure rather than over the structure
2 The gate is designed to restrict the flow of water movement upstream rather than restricting downstream movement
3 The gate does not serve any of the functions typically associated with a dam – water storage, power, etc
The Tidal Atlas effectively highlights the significant effects of the tide gate structure on both the physical and biological aspects of the Tussock Brook ecosystem This structure restricts the movement of anadromous and resident fish species, while also altering tidal exchange in terms of extent, timing, and quality Additionally, natural sediment movement is severely hindered, leading to the formation of a large sediment delta downstream and notable sediment deposition within the culvert The contrast in sediment levels, with a 5 ft difference between deposited sediment and adjacent scour holes, illustrates the disruption of sediment transport, which is vital for maintaining a healthy estuarine ecosystem The delicate balance of organic sediment accretion and attrition is crucial for the survival of native salt marsh flora and fauna.
The tide gate and associated structures are in poor condition The Tidal Atlas lists the condition as
The assessment of Tussock Brook's condition, deemed "good" over a decade ago, likely did not include an inspection of the culvert's interior due to access difficulties Recent project surveys have documented the current state of the tide gate and its associated structures, highlighting potential concerns that warrant further investigation.
• The lower portion of the flapper gate is missing (Figure 13)
• The wood of the flapper is in very poor condition
The upper end of the gate features an opening, the purpose of which—whether intended to be open or closed—remains unclear This detail is significant, as during spring tides, water flows over the top of the gate into the upstream channel, contrary to the usual function of tide gates, which is to prevent extreme flooding in upper areas.
16 - 18 show spring tides at either end of the gate and into the upstream marsh This is discussed further in Section 2.7.2
• It is unlikely that the flapper is functioning as intended Rusted hinges and waterlogged boards likely reduce the extent to which the gate can open on outgoing tides
The interior walls and wing walls of the culvert are covered with steel sheeting, which is currently in very poor condition The steel exhibits extensive rust and flaking, and in several areas, it has become detached from the concrete walls.
• There has been significant separation of many of the concrete joints along the wing walls and headwalls
Figure 11 Atlas of Tidal Restrictions Description of the Tussock Brook Tide Gate
Figure 12 Tussock Brook tide Gate (KITB8) Looking Upstream at Low Tide
Figure 13 View of Tide Gate and "Sill" at Entrance
Figure 14 View of Upstream End of Tide Gate Looking Downstream at Low Tide
Figure 15 Inside of Tussock Brook Culvert Looking Downstream
Figure 16 Spring Tide Passing Over the Downstream Side of the Tide Gate
Figure 17 Spring Tide Coming Through the Upstream Side of the Tide Gate
Figure 18 Spring Tide Flooding the Tussock Brook Marsh Above the Tide Gate
The Tidal Atlas identifies Halls Brook Dam, located at 20 Maple St, Kingston, MA, as KIHB 9, highlighting its current conditions and potential remediation strategies It prioritizes restoration efforts for the Tussock Brook gate due to its significant area of impact, potential for supporting anadromous fish, and upstream benefits The Stony Brook Dam, situated on a 10.35-acre property, features an earth embankment and stone spillway, with a headrace that has dry stone masonry and a crest width of six to eight feet The dam's 300-foot-long embankment reaches heights of up to nine feet and has been part of a series of structures at the site since the 17th century, with the existing dam likely constructed in the 19th century, incorporating modern repairs Currently, the dam has no industrial use.
In 2004, American Rivers and the MA Riverways Program hired dam engineering specialist Jim MacBroom to perform a reconnaissance survey of a dam, which was rated in fair condition by both MacBroom and the 2001 Tidal Atlas survey However, MacBroom noted that the spillway was in poor condition and at risk of failure, exhibiting significant deterioration, including displaced rock and a key stone precariously supported by a downstream tree Additionally, a concrete-lined raceway leading to a former mill is situated at the left abutment, with an allowable head of five feet Tenants had removed boards from the six-foot wide stone spillway to relieve pressure on the failing sluiceboard frame The upstream face of the dam is overgrown with trees and shrubs, and the stone wave protection is displaced, while a footbridge spanning the spillway is in very poor condition.
The pool above the dam, which is approximately one acre and nearly filled with sediment, is bordered by the dam to the south and east, Maple Street to the west, and a driveway with a retaining wall to the north Water depths in the pool are only one to two feet, allowing rooted aquatic plants like wild rice and cattail to thrive in the shallow water The dam is classified as "small" with a "low" hazard risk due to its minimal water volume; however, if the pool were to be dredged to restore its full depth and volume, the hazard classification could potentially increase because of the adjacent mill building.
The dam completely obstructs upstream fish passage, while downstream movement over the spillway presents significant challenges due to a vertical drop that ends on exposed rocks without a scour pool or tailwater The next barrier upstream is the culvert beneath Maple Street Recently, the JRWA collaborated with the Town of Kingston to install a properly sized box culvert, facilitating better fish passage compared to the previous small pipe.
Figure 19 Atlas of Tidal Restrictions Description of the Stony Brook Dam
Figure 20 Stony Brook Dam (Sluice at left)
Figure 21 Stony Brook Dam Sluice (boards removed)
Figure 22 Stony Brook Impoundment (Bing Maps)
Figure 23 Atlas of Tidal Restrictions Prioritization of the Three Structures
Habitat Evaluations
MarineFisheries has been tracking smelt (Osmerus mordax) in the Jones River since at least the early
In the 1970s, Reback and DiCarlo (1972) identified the Jones as one of the largest smelt runs in Massachusetts A subsequent study by MarineFisheries in 2006, conducted by Chase, specifically examined habitat suitability and population estimates of smelt in several significant Massachusetts runs.
Four tributaries to the Jones River also contained known smelt spawning habitat Halls Brook joins the Jones River estuary on the north side of the river slightly west
Halls Brook, also known as Stoney Brook, originates from Blackwater Pond and flows through a Mill Pond before joining the Jones River estuary west of Rt 3 A dam at the Mill Pond restricts upstream movement, but smelt eggs were discovered from the dam's base downstream to the intertidal marsh over a distance of 66 meters, with a spawning habitat area of 260 m² In 1995, this section exhibited suitable conditions for smelt spawning, including appropriate depth and flow, along with moderate to high densities of smelt eggs Although not regularly monitored, smelt eggs were observed during four visits between April 17th and May 18th, surpassing densities found at Smelt Brook Discharge measurements recorded were 0.274 m³/s on May 2nd and 0.199 m³/s on May 18th, indicating that while Halls Brook had a smaller spawning habitat area compared to Smelt Brook, it offered higher quality conditions and greater discharge A comprehensive monitoring season would have been beneficial for assessing this brook further.
The tributaries of the Jones River, particularly Halls Brook and Smelt Brook, play a crucial role in attracting spawning adult smelt, likely benefiting from annual recruitment from smelt hatched in the main stem Given the region's geography, it's probable that all smelt runs within the coastal embayment of Duxbury Bay, Kingston Bay, and Plymouth Harbor also receive this recruitment Despite Halls Brook's small size, it offers suitable spawning habitat for smelt, as evidenced by the relatively large number of eggs observed in 1995.
The Halls Brook area, previously a mill property, lacks adequate canopy and riparian buffer to ensure proper shading and erosion protection for smelt spawning habitats To enhance the ecological health of this vital area, it is recommended to landscape the riparian bank along Halls Brook, thereby improving shading and controlling erosion in the spawning habitat.
The 2006 Chase report includes detailed tables highlighting the extent and quality of spawning habitats at the study sites Specifically, for Halls/Stony Brook, the length of spawning habitat where smelt egg deposition occurred was recorded at 66 meters, with an area of 260 square meters Additionally, discharge measurements were taken.
Stony Brook, with a drainage area of 10.3 km² and a flow rate of 0.237 m³/s, was evaluated for habitat quality across various factors, including sediment, eutrophication, and fish passage The river segment achieved the 5th highest quality score among 42 spawning areas studied However, it received the lowest ratings in fish passage and acidity, highlighting areas for improvement.
Wetlands
On August 23, 2011 a wetland delineation and wetland field assessment was conducted in the study area The Survey was conducted by Joseph Grady (Duxbury Conservation Agent) and Alex Mansfield
The evaluation of vegetation, soils, and hydrology was conducted in the field to identify wetland resources within the defined project limits Subsequently, the upper boundaries of these wetland resources were marked in the field On November 18th, the locations of the wetland flags were surveyed using a Leica Smart Rover Real.
The study utilized Real-Time Kinematic Global Positioning System (RTK GPS) for field surveys, comparing the findings with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) web Soil Survey (WSS) database and the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) managed by the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) The field results demonstrated strong correlation with these established datasets Figures 24 to 26 illustrate the wetland types and soil inventory within the project area, while Figures 27 to 30 provide photographic documentation of representative sections of the area.
The wetland vegetation east of Route 3, located upstream of the tide gate, features a blend of tidal and brackish communities, predominantly dominated by the invasive Phragmites australis, which has largely displaced native species across the wetlands In some areas of the upper reaches, pockets of cattails (Typha spp.) are found among the Phragmites, but there is a noticeable scarcity of estuarine marsh species.
Upstream of the tide gate, Spartina species were identified, indicating a rich brackish marsh ecosystem As one moves towards the upper reaches of Tussock Brook, the vegetation shifts from this marshland to a palustrine shrub swamp, characterized by a mix of rushes and grasses This wetland area rapidly transitions into a forest woodland community, featuring pine, Eastern red cedar (Juniper virginiana), Atlantic white cedar (Chamaecyparis thyoides), and various intermittent deciduous trees.
The wetland area features an oak-dominated canopy with common greenbriar (Smilax rotundifolia) as the primary understory species This ecological transition is evident along the mapped wetland borders and on several marsh "islands." The western boundary is characterized by a manmade stone-lined channel and a steep forested bank adjacent to Route 3 Notably, the northern section of the project area experiences a significant elevation change of about 15 feet due to a manmade berm, which forms a pond at the headwaters of Tussock Brook While additional
The wetland communities west of Route 3 are predominantly characterized by a near-monoculture of Phragmites australis, with occasional occurrences of salt marsh cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) and salt marsh hay (Spartina patens) scattered throughout Similar to the eastern side, the wetland boundary is clearly delineated, transitioning swiftly into the adjacent forested woodland The eastern edge of the wetland is distinctly marked by the steep, forested bank of the elevated Route 3 highway.
Figure 24 Wetlands Inventory From USFWS (Consistent With Results of 2011 Field Survey)
Figure 25 Soil Map of Project Area (USDA, Consistent With 2011 Survey) Legend in Figure 26
Figure 26 Soil Type Legend for Figure 25
Figure 27 Typical of Tussock Brook, Dense Phragmites Surrounding Tidal Channel
Figure 28 Manmade Channels at the Toe of the Highway Embankment
Figure 29 Red Cedar Stands at Wetland Borders and Islands
Figure 30 Discharge Pipe from Manmade Headwater Pond to Upper Tussock Brook.
Tidal Inundation, Topography, and Elevation
A focused topographic survey was conducted alongside the wetland delineation survey across the project area, while tidal fluctuation data was collected to evaluate the current conditions.
The studies conducted at Tussock Brook aimed to assess the current tidal fluctuations and inundation levels, while also pinpointing critical elevation points essential for informed decision-making regarding modifications to existing structures A key objective was to determine if alterations to the environment could impact these conditions.
Tussock Brook tide gate would increase the risk of flooding at upstream properties The data were collected in two phases:
In 2010, JRWA and CZM established four survey stations in the Jones River, Stony Brook, and Tussock Brook to collect continuous water level data over six weeks during significant spring tides The primary objective was to monitor tidal heights relative to the Tussock Brook tide gate, assessing its functionality and the risk of flooding to upstream properties Additionally, a Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) GPS system was used to survey the elevations of each station, ensuring accurate water level data by correcting it with the true elevation of the logging stations.
Figure 31 shows the location and elevation of each of the four logging station The stations are summarized in Table 1
Table 1 Description and Elevation of Water Level Logging Stations
Jones River -4.4 Mainstem Baseline of (mostly) unrestricted tidal exchange
Stony Brook -3.7 Confluence of Stony and Tussock Brooks
Tussock Brook -2.0 Just upstream of tide gate Shows direct influence of gate on tidal fluctuation Parks Street
The upper section of Tussock Brook marsh features a channel that drains from Parks Street and borders private property This area is crucial for illustrating the current extent of tidal influence and the potential flooding risks to adjacent private land.
*Data from the Parks Street Creek station is not included in this plan
Figure 32 shows the full two month corrected data set from the four water level logging stations
Significant features of the data set include:
In late March 2010, a significant precipitation and flooding event took place, marking the second of two major occurrences that month The initial event happened shortly before the installation of the loggers.
• Astronomically high tides around the full moon of April 28, 2010
Both of these features represent typical high water conditions and were further evaluated
Figure 31 Location of Water Level Logging Stations
Figure 32 Water Level Data from the Logging Stations
In March 2010, extreme precipitation events led to increased freshwater flow in the Jones River and its tributaries, resulting in elevated water levels at both high and low tides across various stations The extent of these increases was proportional to the size of the system, with the Jones River Station experiencing low tide depth increases of up to 2 feet, while Tussock Brook and Parks Street Creek recorded increases of approximately 1 foot and 0.5 feet, respectively Notably, the high tide elevations also mirrored the low tide increases due to freshwater contributions, with tidal fluctuations and freshwater influences occurring simultaneously at all stations Although there was a slight delay in peak tide at upstream stations, there was no significant blockage affecting tidal flow or backwater on outgoing tides Ultimately, all stations returned to non-flood conditions around the same time.
Figure 33 Water Levels During March 2010 Flood Event
In April 2010, astronomically high spring tides were recorded, offering valuable insights into the tidal intrusion levels at upper Tussock Brook marsh These spring tides, which occur during each full and new moon, result in a greater tidal range and height The data from this spring tide period serves as a representative example of the peak conditions for tidal inundation Selected water level data from this timeframe is illustrated in Figure 34.
At all monitoring stations, low water levels indicate a complete absence of tidal influence, representing 100% freshwater flow The analysis reveals that high tide elevations are consistently higher than during neap conditions across all stations, with the Jones River and Stony Brook stations exhibiting nearly identical high tide elevations and timing This similarity suggests minimal impact from the Landing Road culvert on tidal fluctuations in Stony Brook However, a significant difference in timing and height of tides is observed between Stony Brook and Tussock Brook upstream of the tide gate, which introduces a lag in high tide timing starting at approximately 3.0 ft elevation, absent during neap tides Additionally, the tide gate reduces peak tide heights, with Tussock Brook showing peak water elevations up to 1.7 ft lower than Stony Brook This lag and elevation reduction occur as the tide gate restricts water volume from entering upstream areas, causing the tide to recede before the lagged elevation can reach its peak While the culvert may contribute to some extent, the tide gate is identified as the primary factor influencing these upstream tidal characteristics.
Figure 34 Water Levels During April 2010 Spring Tides
An RTK GPS system was employed to survey the project area, focusing on assessing elevations near private properties at risk of flooding The survey also aimed to determine the potential horizontal reach of tidal inundation across various tidal conditions.
Phragmites obstructs complete topographic coverage in the area, prompting the selection of specific locations to determine key elevations Periodic cross-sections of the upstream channels were performed to assess the stream channel bottom elevation and the heights of both bank tops Additionally, upland transects were carried out to evaluate elevations that experience normal and periodic flooding under current and proposed conditions The survey results are illustrated in Figure 35.
The survey revealed significant topographic variability and an elevation increase with distance from the river channels, highlighting three distinct vertical zones in the overall landscape These findings are crucial for informing restoration planning efforts.
• Channels: Center channel elevations were less than 0.0 ft (NAVD 88) throughout the entire area
• Marsh Surface: The marsh surface was hummocky but showed overall elevation consistency in a range of approximately 2.5-4.5 ft throughout
• Upland: As described in Section 2.6 the wetland areas transitioned very quickly to upland
Upland elevations immediately adjacent to the marsh ranged from approximately 7.0-12.0 ft
The findings, when analyzed alongside water level logging data, reveal that peak water elevations in the unimpeded areas of Stony Brook and the Jones River reached approximately 7.0 ft during both the flood event and spring tides This elevation is lower than the surrounding uplands of Tussock Brook, suggesting that unrestricted tidal exchange above Route 3 is unlikely to cause flooding in nearby properties during normal spring tide cycles.
Figure 35 Results of Topographic Survey
Water Quality
In 2010, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) identified the lower Jones River (segment MA94-14) as impaired due to pathogens, specifically bacteria, and indicated the need for a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) to address this issue State agencies have conducted water quality sampling to monitor the situation.
MarineFisheries regularly samples the lower Jones as part of its shellfish monitoring program, revealing high bacteria counts that have led to the long-term closure of shellfish beds in Kingston Bay Recent infrastructure improvements in Duxbury and Kingston, including upgrades to stormwater and sewer systems, have somewhat enhanced bay conditions, allowing for the reopening of certain areas to commercial and recreational shellfishing Nevertheless, there are still prohibited and conditionally approved areas, particularly near the mouth of the Jones River, as indicated in the MarineFisheries Designated Shellfish Growing Area map (Figure 37).
Until recently, water quality data for Stony Brook and Tussock Brook was scarce However, in 2011, two bacterial tracking programs were launched to support ongoing restoration planning efforts The first program focuses on the Jones River Estuary and Kingston Bay.
The Stormwater Assessment Project, funded by the Massachusetts Bays Program, marks the first phase of a comprehensive initiative aimed at establishing baseline water quality conditions and developing preliminary design plans for stormwater remediation in Kingston The project's primary objective is to enhance shellfish growing areas in Kingston Bay, covering 1,294 acres To identify pollution sources, storm event sampling was conducted at various outfalls within the watershed, with data on bacterial levels and Total Suspended Solids (TSS) collected during the 2011 Kingston stormwater sampling program Analysis of the data reveals that while both Maple St and Parks Street exhibit elevated pollution levels, particularly Maple St as a significant contributor of TSS, they are not the highest priority sites for stormwater remediation within the broader Kingston program.
In 2006, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection's Southeast Regional Office (DEP SERO) launched a Bacteria Source Tracking (BST) program to address the inadequacies of previous monitoring plans by the Division of Watershed Management (DWM) in identifying bacterial contamination sources and implementing remediation actions The program aims to enhance the water quality of impaired rivers and streams in the southeast region by pinpointing contamination sources within selected sub-watersheds and recommending appropriate remediation measures Data collected in 2011 revealed that samples taken downstream of the Tussock Brook tide gate exhibited the highest bacterial counts, with E coli levels peaking at 7,270 MPN/100ml in August Elevated bacterial levels were also detected in the lower sections of Stony (Halls) Brook, likely due to contributions from Tussock Brook Consequently, the DEP conducted analyses for Human Indicator bacteria, which indicated no evidence of human contamination sources.
Recent sampling programs have revealed high bacterial levels in Stony and Tussock Brook, while negative results from human indicator samples mark the initial step in identifying potential pollution sources It is probable that the elevated bacteria originate from wild or domestic animals within the Tussock Brook watershed, necessitating further research to pinpoint and address these sources effectively.
Figure 36 MarineFisheries Designated Shellfish Growing Area for Kingston Bay
Figure 37 Excerpt of Town of Kingston Stormwater Sampling Results 2011 (ATP 2011)
Table 2 Mass Balance of Bacterial and TSS Contributions From Kingston Outfalls (ATP 2011) x10^6 x10^6 x10^3
Fecal Units Entero Units TSS: mg SAMPLE ID
Table 3 Dry Weather Bacteria Data Jones River 2011 (DEP SERO-BST)
Mainstem at harbor master dock at end of River Street, left bank 279 538 52
JR02 Mainstem at Rt.3 crossing 292 2014 703
At bottom of Halls Brook, approximately
30 ft upstream of confluence with Jones
River and downstream of Landing Rd
JR04 Mainstem at railroad bridge 211 213 10
JR05 Route 3A (Main Street) crossing No sample 145 62
JR06 Tussock Brook, downstream of tidegate and Rt.3 884 7270 3076 3200
Evidence of Human Sewage Source =
Halls Brook, approximately 130ft downstream of Maple Street and downstream of dam, Kingston, MA 410.6 187 216
Halls Brook approximately 90ft downstream of Rt.3A, at endwall 159.7 238 350
Outlet from pond at headwaters of
Smelt Brook, approximately 120ft downstream of Rt.3A 22.8 10 109
At bottom of Smelt brook, just upstream of confluence with Jones River No sample 243 10
1st Brook, approximately 50ft downstream of Brook Street (Rt.80),
2nd Brook, approximately 25ft downstream of Brook Street (Rt.80 No sample 20 20
3rd Brook, immediately downstream of
Brook Street (Rt.80) No sample 52 185
Historic
Archaeological evidence indicates that the Jones River drainage has been a significant site of human habitation for over 12,000 years, with abundant resources such as fertile soils, wood, and fish Findings in the Kingston and Plymouth areas suggest human presence dating back to the Paleo-Indian Period (12,500–10,000 B.P.), although this early occupation may have been largely underestimated (Bradley and Boudreau, 2008).
The archeological evidence of human presence in Southeastern Massachusetts is spotty from the
The archaeological record in Plymouth County indicates significant human presence during the Early Woodland Period (3000–1600 B.P.), particularly in estuarine areas around the lower Jones River, Kingston Bay, and Massachusetts Bay Notably, the Bay Farm Site, located southeast of the project area near Kingston Bay, has produced a diverse array of artifacts, including projectile points from the Middle and Late Archaic, as well as Woodland Periods, alongside ground-stone tools, steatite, and pottery Additionally, a recent investigation related to the Kingston sewer project uncovered Large Triangle/Levanna projectile points near Stony Brook, confirming a Late Woodland component at the site (Dudek 1999).
During the Contact Period (450–300 B.P./A.D 1500–1620), European explorers and settlers, such as William Bradford, Thomas Morton, and Samuel Champlain, documented the significant presence of large native populations in Southeastern Massachusetts The area that would later become Kingston was home to the Wampanoag people, who were prominent in the region during this time.
European contact in the Kingston area, particularly around the Jones River and Rocky Nook, fostered a thriving community engaged in hunting, gathering, and horticulture, with fish weirs indicating a robust anadromous fish run Coastal villages served as seasonal hubs for crop cultivation and marine resource harvesting in summer, while spring focused on fishing However, this contact brought devastating consequences for native populations, as disease and warfare led to significant declines, notably during the epidemic of 1616–1617 The drastic reduction in native inhabitants likely influenced the early settlers' choice of Plymouth, contributing to its eventual success.
In the early 1620s, settlers departed from Plymouth to cultivate the fertile agricultural lands of the lower Jones River, leading to Kingston's growth during the Colonial Period, where residents primarily engaged in agriculture, animal husbandry, commercial fishing, and lumbering By the mid-1700s, Kingston emerged as a hub for shipbuilding and iron production, marked by the establishment of two shipyards around 1713 The town benefited from the contributions of local historian and photographer Emily Fuller Drew, whose detailed accounts of Kingston's industries, including mills and the transformation of waterways, provide crucial insights into the environmental changes brought about by industrial activities.
The area originally housed a sawmill, referenced in a 1730 deed, which was replaced by a gristmill purchased from John Brewster by a group of Kingston men in 1746 This gristmill served the local community until around 1866, when Caleb Bates relocated it to expand the pond, with the machinery continuing to operate in a building on the lower dam for several more years In 1805, Seth Washburn and Deacon Seth Drew acquired the gristmill and a nearby blacksmith shop, later partnering with Thomas Cushman to establish the Stony Brook Iron Works, where they produced augers and engaged in ship blacksmithing while grinding corn when needed.
The 1805 iron works established by Washburn and Drew were primarily designed to meet the demands of the shipyard on Stony Brook, which had been run by the Drews since around 1713 By 1875, the site had undergone numerous transformations, including the construction, reconstruction, and relocation of various buildings, dams, flumes, and other structures.
The historic Stony Brook Iron Works, once located on an island formed by a natural stream and flume, now lies beneath the pond near the current dam and factory building The remnants of its foundations are visible when water levels drop, serving as a reminder of its existence until significant alterations were made by Mr Bates around 1875.
The length of the industrial history at the site can be easily recognized when considering that the following statement was made nearly ninety years ago,
The history of the water privilege spans over 200 years, while the Stony Brook iron works has been operational for 121 years Additionally, C Drew & Company, the oldest firm in Kingston, has a legacy of 89 years in the industry.
The Stony Brook area, rich in historical significance, was traversed by a major route highlighted in a 17th-century map This map illustrates the "Massachusetts path," which linked Kingston and Duxbury to Boston, likely crossing Stony Brook near the current dam site Additionally, it marks the locations of an early shipyard and brickworks along Stony Brook, emphasizing the area's industrial heritage.
Figure 38 17th Century Road Layout of Kingston with Notable Sites along Stony Brook (Drew
Property Ownership
A successful restoration program must consider property ownership and potential changes due to modifications The initial step involved identifying property boundaries and ownership within the project area, as illustrated in Figure 39, which combines data from Kingston assessors Maps 27, 28, 36, and 37 The project area includes 14 properties owned by ten entities, including the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (DOT) for Route 3 The JRWA has compiled a list of property owners' names and addresses, and some were contacted during the development of the restoration plan.
JRWA has engaged with the primary residential property owner upstream of Tussock Brook multiple times, and the owner supports the restoration project as long as his property remains unaffected The findings from surveys and data collection will be shared with him to highlight the restoration's benefits and potential impacts Additionally, JRWA has collaborated with the Stony Brook dam owner, who is aware of the dam's condition and liabilities Although site development plans have been postponed, JRWA believes the owner will remain open to river restoration efforts Furthermore, JRWA has communicated with MA DOT regarding the Tussock Brook tide gate, but the department has no official plans or records on the matter Discussions with representatives from the Towns of Kingston and Duxbury also revealed a lack of tide gate plans, prompting JRWA to continue seeking information on this issue.
JRWA recently engaged with conservation agents from Kingston and Duxbury to outline restoration goals for the project area, receiving strong support for initiatives aimed at enhancing water quality, safeguarding wildlife habitats, and preserving coastal regions Many properties involved are either conservation lands owned by non-profits, such as the Boys & Girls Scouts, or owned by absentee owners To foster collaboration, JRWA is drafting a letter to summarize the project's objectives and encourage feedback, partnership, and cooperation from property owners.
Figure 39 Property Boundaries in the Project Area (Kingston Maps 27, 28, 36, & 37)
Restoration Goals
Habitat Quality
The habitat quality of Stony and Tussock Brooks has been severely compromised due to manmade structures and the invasive species Phragmites australis, which thrives in extensive monocultures Factors such as restricted saltwater inputs, physical disturbances, and disrupted natural sediment transport pathways have contributed to these invasions Phragmites stands offer inadequate habitat for birds and wildlife, resulting in low species diversity Ongoing habitat degradation is exacerbated by the presence of dams, tide gates, and Phragmites, further hindering natural sediment transport.
The Stony Brook dam has created a nearly stable state of sediment deposition upstream, where the impoundment, despite having a 5-7 ft head height, remains generally less than 1 ft deep This sediment accumulation results from the dam's presence and high stormwater loading rates from outfalls on Maple St and Route 3A in the town center During warmer months, the impoundment is almost entirely covered in vegetation, yet it typically experiences high temperatures and low dissolved oxygen levels, leading to poor habitat quality.
Restoration goals for habitat include:
Stopping the further invasion of Phragmites
Restoring connectivity throughout Stony and Tussock Brooks
Allowing healthy natural habitat changes to occur over time (i.e salt marsh migrations, climate change, sea level rise, etc)
Anadromous and Native Fish Runs
Dams have existed on Stony Brook since the 17th century, but significant barriers to fish passage likely emerged only in recent decades Prior to the 1970s, the site’s configuration seemingly allowed for fish movement MarineFisheries has designated Stony Brook as a key anadromous fish run, where herring and smelt currently spawn at the dam's base due to restricted access to more suitable upstream habitats.
MarineFisheries has conducted spawning habitat assessments of Blackwater Pond at the headwater of
Stony Brook has identified key restoration targets for the anadromous fish run, which includes native species such as American shad, American eel, tessellated darter, white perch, and Atlantic tomcod, all of which inhabit the Jones River Estuary However, the dam in Stony Brook significantly limits their habitats, while the tide gate greatly restricts access to Tussock Brook.
Restoration goals for fish runs include:
Restoring connectivity throughout Stony and Tussock Brooks
Providing access to suitable spawning habitats
Water Quality
The project area is experiencing poor water quality, evidenced by extremely high dry weather bacterial counts in Tussock and Stony Brooks Wet weather sampling indicates significant bacterial and total suspended solids (TSS) contributions from stormwater systems While not directly monitored, it is assumed that the impoundment on Stony Brook mirrors similar impoundments, which typically exhibit low dissolved oxygen levels and elevated temperatures.
Restoration goals for water quality include:
Improving sediment loading and transport
Improving tidal exchange and flushing
Restoration Solutions
Stony Brook Dam
Dams have been integral to Stony Brook since the 17th century, serving vital industrial purposes, but the remaining dam now poses ecological and safety risks, disrupting the natural ecosystem Similar to other remnant dams in New England, local communities are addressing the challenges of these structures through removal, modification, or repair, each tailored to specific goals To determine the best course of action, it is crucial to revisit restoration goals and create a decision-making matrix that considers various factors affecting the site While some economic and historical factors exceed this plan's scope and would require a feasibility study, preliminary data suggests that dam removal aligns with the highest number of restoration objectives The next steps for implementing restoration at Stony Brook are outlined in Section 5.
Table 4 Example of Goal Driven Decision Matrix for Stony Brook Dam
Action: Removal Modification Repair No Action Restoration Goals
Stopping the further invasion of Phragmites M M N N
Allowing healthy natural habitat changes Y M N N
Providing access to suitable spawning habitats Y M N N
Improving sediment loading and transport M N N N
Improving tidal exchange and flushing Y N N N
Reduce operation and maintenance requirements Y N N N
Promote long-term sustainability of site and river Y N N N
Create a condition compatible with site use M M Y M
Promote recreational use of the river Y N N N
Tussock Brook Tide Gate
The Tussock Brook tide gate presents a significant opportunity for restoration, with records of its original installation held by MA DOT and the towns of Kingston and Duxbury Typically, such tide gates are installed to mitigate flooding and prevent saltwater intrusion into marsh areas, suggesting that the Tussock Brook gate was designed to protect upstream properties Local residents have indicated that there were once plans to develop the upstream areas for farming, which may have influenced the installation of the tide gate However, since the area was never developed for agriculture and current property ownership along with wetland regulations would prohibit such use in the future, the focus now shifts to the restoration potential of the tide gate itself.
The current state of the gate suggests it is not functioning as intended, with missing boards allowing water exchange at various tides and a significant gap permitting peak tides to flow over Rusted hinges and waterlogged boards limit its opening, leading to increased water velocities that erode the base and deposit coarse sediment Although it does not serve its typical purpose, the gate creates common impairments associated with tide gates, such as reduced tidal flushing, unnatural sediment transport, and obstruction of wildlife corridors Given the unclear ownership, ineffective function, and observable impacts, removing this structure aligns with the restoration goals outlined in Section 3, benefiting the overall ecosystem.
Stopping the further invasion of Phragmites
Restoring connectivity throughout Stony and Tussock Brooks
Allowing healthy natural habitat changes to occur over time (i.e salt marsh migrations, climate change, sea level rise, etc)
Providing access to suitable spawning habitats
Improving sediment loading and transport
Improving tidal exchange and flushing
Stormwater
Stormwater runoff in urban environments is a significant contributor to water quality issues in estuaries, introducing sediments, nutrients, bacteria, and other pollutants into coastal ecosystems To mitigate the effects of stormwater on these areas, various best management practices (BMPs) can be implemented, including designs that emphasize Low Impact Development (LID) strategies.
Low Impact Development (LID) techniques focus on enhancing water quality through effective infiltration and pretreatment methods that efficiently remove total suspended solids (TSS), oil, grease, floatables, and bacteria Best Management Practices (BMP) for bacterial removal encompass designs such as constructed wetlands, bioretention areas, subsurface infiltration systems, and water quality swales For TSS removal, effective designs include settling tanks, settling basins, and vegetated swales Implementing these solutions can significantly and immediately improve water quality, aligning with the objectives outlined in Section 3.
Landing Road
The Atlas of Tidal Restrictions identifies the Landing Road culvert as a barrier to natural water flow and a factor in the invasion of Phragmites due to decreased flushing Proposed solutions in the Atlas include increasing the culvert size to enhance water flushing However, the water level logging study (Section 2.7.1) contradicts this evaluation, showing that the height and timing of tides in Stony Brook were unaffected compared to those in Jones River during the study period This indicates that the tested conditions did not support the need for enlarging the culvert to improve tidal flow.
The Landing Road culvert currently facilitates tidal movement and flushing, but the project aims to support healthy natural habitat changes over time, including salt marsh migrations and adaptations to climate change and sea level rise While the culvert is well-constructed for present conditions, it may not be adequate for future scenarios Therefore, periodic monitoring aligned with coastal changes is essential By focusing on long-term restoration goals, modifications to the Landing Road culvert can be approached opportunistically, minimizing urgent interventions and maintaining cost-effectiveness and sustainability.
Implementation
Stony Brook Dam
The Stony Brook dam has been identified as having significant potential for restoration, highlighting its ecological importance To fully understand the methods needed for effective river restoration at this site, a thorough feasibility study is essential Therefore, the implementation of a restoration program at Stony Brook should follow a structured sequence to ensure success.
1 Conduct a feasibility study: a Review of Existing Materials: Review and document the available existing data and resource information regarding the dam and dam site such as aerial photographs, dam inspection reports, past studies of the dam, watershed history and potential contamination information, information regarding abutting property owners, as well as any information on historical diadromous fish runs and/or fisheries Contaminant testing, potential threatened or endangered species issues, existing archaeology and historical reports should also be included This restoration plan should be considered a starting point but not a comprehensive source for the review b Base Map The existing site conditions for the dam and the associated stretch of river should be documented through on-site field investigation and data collection A detailed base map should be prepared (based upon actual ground survey data or combined aerial photogrammetry with supplemental ground data) The survey should cover all areas potentially impacted by all of the alternatives The base map should include all features below including those required for all local, state and federal permits including, but not limited to:
• Biological benchmarks (wetland extent, stream channel, etc.)
Key infrastructure elements within floodplains include roadways, bridges, and culverts, as well as residential and commercial buildings Additional considerations involve culvert inverts, well heads, septic systems, and various utilities such as power lines, waterlines, sewer lines, and phone or cable services.
• Channel cross-section survey data and drawings sufficient for hydrologic/hydraulic calculations necessary for all viable restoration alternatives
• Locations of the 100-year, 500-year, and regulatory floodway boundaries as shown on the National Flood Insurance map
• Property boundaries based on assessor’s information
The assessment of major vegetation types, including the presence of non-native invasive species, is crucial for effective post-project monitoring of vegetation changes The hydrological analysis must evaluate how dam removal will disrupt the existing hydrological balance, affecting flood dynamics, floodplain interactions, and spillway capacity This evaluation will also consider the transformation of riparian wetlands into different hydrologic types and plant communities due to reduced river water levels Additionally, a preliminary hydraulic analysis is necessary to determine the feasibility of fish passage for target species, including recommendations for channel cross-sections and modifications linked to dam removal Finally, a comprehensive Sediment Management Plan should be established to address the complexities of managing impounded sediments, taking into account contaminant levels and regulatory requirements from agencies such as the DEP and US ACOE.
• An assessment of sediment volume and regulatory need for testing
• A proposed sediment sampling scheme appropriate for the volume and distribution of sediment
• Optional tasks which define analytical costs for any required testing
• Other tasks deemed necessary for development of sediment management options
2 Public outreach Public outreach should be a key component at all phases of the restoration program However, it is critical to conduct effective public outreach around the feasibility stage Setting the stage for partnership and support prior to design and permitting can make the difference between successful or failed restoration
3 Design and permitting The preferred alternative selected in the feasibility study will require significant design details prior to actual restoration Additionally, there are a significant number of permits that may be required for such an undertaking Given the size, location, and history of Stony Brook Dam the following permits may be required:
• Wetlands Protection Act: Determination of Applicability from the Kingston Conservation Commission
• Notice of Intent (NOI) under Town of Kingston Wetland Protective By-law
• The building permit will trigger review by the local Kingston Historical Commission which will assess any perceived threat to local historical resources
• Section 106 Historical Certificate (if federal funding)
• Section 401 Water Quality Certificate (MDEP)
• Section 404 CWA (U.S Army Corps of Engineers)
4 Conduct restoration With design plans and permits in place site restoration can proceed
5 Monitoring and adaptive management Long-term sustainability of restoration projects depends on monitoring conditions and adaptively managing to maintain consistency with restoration and goals and endpoints.
Tussock Brook Tide Gate
JRWA is currently working towards removal of the Tussock Brook tide gate under funding from the Massachusetts Environmental Trust
JRWA will prepare all permit applications and presentations in early 2012 Removal of the gate may require permitting at the local, state, and federal levels Potential permits include:
• Notice of Intent (NOI) under Town of Kingston Wetland Protective By-law
• MEPA EIR or EIR waiver
• Army Corps of Engineers Programmatic General Permit II (for restoration)
The removal of the gate will be conducted gradually using an adaptive management approach, allowing for observation of the marsh's response over multiple tidal cycles after each section is removed from the bottom up This method aims for a complete or partial removal that aligns with restoration goals, eliminating the need for physical or automatic tide gate controls and ensuring no long-term maintenance costs or efforts are required.
Tussock Brook's strategic location offers a unique opportunity for educational experiences, particularly with its proximity to Jones River Landing and the Bay Farm Montessori School, which has developed an innovative hands-on curriculum focused on real-world ecological problems The restoration project aligns with the school's ecology program, allowing for a collaborative learning experience Through partnerships with local school systems, JRWA facilitates site visits, presentations, and paddling trips to the brook, providing a hands-on understanding of tidal systems and restoration projects, further enhancing community outreach and education at the Landing site.
Stormwater
The implementation of stormwater improvements in Kingston follows a multi-phase approach, beginning with establishing baseline water quality conditions and identifying pollution sources The town has successfully completed the first three phases, prioritizing sites and developing design plans for best management practices (BMPs) Although the stormwater outfalls on Stony Brook and Tussock Brook were not assigned the highest priority, the overall aim is to enhance shellfish growing areas in Kingston Bay, covering 1,294 acres After addressing the top priority sites, Kingston will proceed with subsequent rounds of prioritization, ensuring that the outfalls in the project area will receive necessary improvements through BMPs in the future.
Water Quality
The 2011 DEP SERO sampling program revealed elevated bacterial levels in Tussock and Stony Brooks during dry weather, likely due to contributions from wild or domestic animals rather than human sources Potential contributors include wildlife in the marsh, such as deer and raccoons, as well as waterfowl in the headwaters and domestic animals like horses and goats on nearby properties Identifying these sources is essential for implementing effective water quality restoration, necessitating continued targeted sampling in Tussock Brook Once sources are pinpointed, a remediation program utilizing Best Management Practices (BMPs) can be developed, which may involve education, enforcement, and wildlife management Additionally, removing the tide gate is anticipated to enhance water quality through improved flushing, although controlling the identified sources remains a crucial aspect of the restoration effort.