    [From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]

                                                                          CENTER

                                   MEMORANDUM
                                        ON
                     ,5IGN3_FLCA_W FISH AND WILDLIFE HABITAT
                          HUDSON RIVER       NYC TO TROY DAM

                                     (TASK 7.3)

           Ise

           Sab@

                       .. .... ... ......

                    QL
                    628
                    N7
                    M46
                    1976

                  New York-State Department of Environmental Conservation
          :2

                                         COASTAL ZONE
                                         INFORMATION CENTER

                                                'MEMORANDUM

                                                     on

                                    Significant Fish and Wildlife Habitat
                                         Hudson River   NYC to Troy Dam
                                                 (Task 7.3).

                                                      Propczty of CSC Library

             The preparation of this report was financially aided through a Federal Grant
            .from the Office of Coastal Zone Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
             Administration, under the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972.

             This report was prepared under the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 for the
             Division of State Planning, Department of State

             June 1976

             Grant Number: 04-5-158-50002
                                                        Q . DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NOAA
                                                      COASTAL SERVICES CENTER
                                                      2234 SOUTH HOESON AVENUE
                                                      CHARLESTON   SC 29405-2413
            r4- WA

           C

            Introduction

                 This report identifies and briefly describes significant coastal
            related fish and wildlife habitats in the Hudson Valley from the
            federal dam at Troy to New York City. It consists of a series of
            individual map reports keyed to a marked set of USGS 7@21 topographic
            maps covering the lower Hudson River. It is intended primarily for
            use.as.-one of several- in-house reference documents contributing to the
            completion of the Department of Environmental Conservation2s.contract-ual
            -bbligations -in the Coastal.Zune Management progrm.

                 Several procedures were to (1) develop a list of habitat categories
                                                                              C@
            of interest, (2)1ocate and establish the boundaries of each habitat
            unit considered significant and (3) suggest an outer limit for a
            coastal zone boundary which would encompass each habitat as a functional
            unit. Areas were identified through review and analysis of all available
            information; consultation with knowledgeable individuals and field checks
            as appropriate.

                 Categories mapped as individual units include:

            1.   Tributaries- from mouth to first impassable barrier to fish,movement.

            2.   Wetlands - General. Detailed mapping and inventory is the subject
                 of a separate task.

            3.   Mudflats

            4.,  Littoral zone   low tide line.to a depth of l8feet at mean lowwater.

            5.   Deepwater - areas greater than 50 feet in depth at mean low water.

            6.   Unique ecological areas.

            7.   Public access sites.

                 Criteria used to establish significance were:

            1.   Habitat for species classified as rare, endangered or threatened.

            2.   Ecologically unique

            3.   Habitat essential to a critical phase in the life cycle of a species.

            4.   High productivity.

            5.   Supports high level of recreational and/or commercial use.

            6.   Provides public access

                ,.Specific-areas were assessed as significant based on existing
              documentation whenever possible. Mostly, however, subjective
              judgments were made based on the assessment of professionals, the
              credentials of lay observers and an accrual of similar assessments of
              individual areas.

                                    COASTAL ZONE MAP REPORT #1
                                      Troy North Quad .(1954)

             Introduction

                  The Troy dam marks the upper extent of the tidal influence in
             the Hudson. Land use in the coastal zone portion of this quad is
             primarily industrial and residential., encompassing the cities of Troy
             and Green Island.

             Habitat Types

                  1. Tributaries
                        Tributary #237 (no Name) and its trib., the Salt Kill are
                  accessible for 3.7 miles. Utilization of this tributary system
                  by anadromous species is unknown, but potentially could serve as
                  spawning stream for alewife, blueback herring and white perch.
                  Marsh areas along this trih. as indicated on the USGS quad are
                  non-existent today due to extensive landfill and waste disposal
                 .that has occurred here.

                  2. Wetlands
                        None

                  3. Mudflats (exposed at low tide)
                        None

                  4. Littoral zones (181 depth contour and less)
                        -The main river immediately below the Troy dam has a small, but
                  important section of rocky shoals and channel areas, which are a
                  concentration area for several fish species. Some spawning of
                  striped bass, American shad, alewife, blueback herring and white
                  perch is known to occur in this area. The main channel below the
                  dam is also used sporadically by rafting waterfowl. Fishing pressure
                  by boat and shore anglers is heavy during the spring and early
                  summer when the stripers are abundant.

                  5. Deepwater Habitat
                        None

                  6. 'Unique Ecological Areas
                        None

                  7. Public  Access
                        The only known points of access to the coastal zone  resource
                  are the banks of the river, immediately below the dam. While these
                  lands are not public, fishermen are able to get to the banks. There
                  are no.boat launching facilities in this area. Boat anglers either
                  come from considerable distance up or down river, or represent local
                  people with boats docked in the immediate area...

                                  -COASTAL ZONE MAP REPORT #72
                                      Troy South Quad (1953)

             Introduction

                  This area is urban in nature encompassing the cities of GreenIsland,
             Troy, Watervliet, Menands, Albany and Rensselaer. There is an area of
             relatively natural-habitat between Rensselaer and Troy along the east
             bank of the river. The west bank between Albany and Watervliet in no
             way resembles the 1953 quad. Construction of 1-787 and,encroachment of-
             the Albany waterfront industries has resulted in filling of nearly the
             entire course of the Little River and substantial areas of marsh.

             Habitat Types

                  1. Tributaries
                        Tributary _4r237 (no name) was described in Map report -#1.

                        The Poesten Kill is a well known spawning stream for alewives
                  and blueback herring. The stream is accessible for 1.3 miles. Some
                  scap netting of herring occurs in the spring on this stream.

                        The Wynants Kill, although not accessible for a substantial
                  distance, may provide additional spawning habitat for herrings.

                        The Little River is accessible for approximately 1.5 miles.
                  Use by anadromous species of fish is unknown.

                        Mill Creek is accessible for 1.3 miles. Useby anadromous
                  fish is unknown.

                  2. Wetlands
                        A small plot of marsh in fairly natural condition exists
                  along T-237, just to the west of Green Island. The marsh supports
                  a minimal number of migratory waterfowl and receives sporadic
                  hunting. The frincres of this marsh are being used for some dumping
                  of trash.

                     A substantial area of lowlands and wetlands exists between the
                  Little River and Albany City limit. Although in a state of severe
                  deterioration, this area probably supports limited numbers of
                  migratory waterfowl and upland game birds.

                     A small plot of marsh occurs along an embayment to the east.
                  shore of the main river at North Greenbush, which supports minimal
                  numbers of waterfowl. Occasional waterfowl hunting occurs in this
                  area.

                      Papscanee Marsh, indicated in the extreme lower left corner of
                  the overlay, will be described in Map Repart #5.

                  3.  Mudflats (exposed at low tide)
                        None

                  4.  'Littoral zones (181 depth contour and less)
                        ..The navigation channel occupies nearly the entire width of
                  the river in this section. Littoral zone is restricted    to the fringe
                  areas between the channel and shoreline areas.

                        The area.from the northern edge of the map, south   to Starbuck
                  Island and the mouth of T-237, is the only significant area of
                  littoral zone on this quad. These shoals are known as    a spawning
                  ground for striped bass, American shad, alewife, blueback herring,
                  and white perch. Fishing pressure by boat and shore anglers is
                  heavy during the spring and early summer when the stripers are
                  abundant.

                  S. Deepwater Habitat
                        None

                  6. Unique Ecological Areas
                        Papscanee Marsh, to be discussed in Map Report #5.

                  7. Public Access
                        Three major access points on this quad  ., are both banks of the
                  river immediately below the Troy dam, the mouth of the Poesten Kill,
                  and from the railroad service road between Rensselaer and the Troy
                  City line. None of these areas.are publicly owned.

                                    COASTAI ZONE MAP REPORT #3
                                       Albany Quad (1953).

             Introduction

                  Both banks of the river are developed with heavy industrial
             installations. No significant shoreward wildlife habitat is available.
             The main channel serves as a rafting area for a very few waterfowl.and
             as a migratory path for anadromous fish, but is not a significant spawning
             ,area.

             Habitat types

                  1. Tributaries
                        None

                  2. Wetlands
                        None

                  3. Mudflats   (expose d at low tide)
                        None

                  4. Littoral   zone (181 depth contour and less)
                        Minimal,, and not considered significant.

                  5. Deepwater habitat
                        None

                  6. Unique Ecological Areas
                        None

                  7. Public  Access
                        None

                                  COASTAL ZONE MAP REPORT #4
                                      Delmar, Quad (1953)

           Introduction
                 Substantial portions of significant coastal related habitat exist
           in the segment. The only developed areas are the Port of Albanyl tank
           farms at Albany and Rensselaer, and the Village of Castleton-on-Hudson.

           Habitat TvDes

                 1. Tributaries
                       Normans Kill Creek is accessible to anadromous fish for 4.0
                 miles, and is probably utilized as a spawning stream by alewives
                 and blueback herring. Cabbage and Beacon Islands form a part of
                 the stream mouth complex. These lowlands and small plots of wetland
                 provide some habitat for waterfowl, upland game birds and an
                 occasional deer.

                       The Vloman Kill (accessible for 1.1 miles), Binnen Kill (4.6 mi.),
                 Muitzes Kill (1.9 mi. ) and Vlockie Kill (0.8 mi.) may all be
                 spawning streams for herrings.

                       The Moordener Kill and Papscanee Creek system are discussed in
                 Map Report 4--,'S.

                 2. Wetlands
                       Small plots of wetlands exist along the west bank at the mouth
                 of the Normans Kill,, at the mouth of Trib. 221, on Schemerhorn Island,
                 and at the junction of the Muitzes Kill and Schodack Creek. Of
                 these, the most important are at the mouth of Trib 221, and the
                 junction of Muitzes Kill and Schodack Creek. Both areas support small
                 numbers of waterfowl and some hunting pressure.

                 3. Mudflats (exposed at low tide).
                       Two small mudflats occur on this quad . one along the east bank,
                                                                       CD
                 just north of Castleton-on-Hudson and one on the west bank south of
                 Trib 221. These flats are important feeding areas for waterfowl,
                 shorebirds and songbirds.

                 4. Littoral Zones (181 depth contour and less)
                       Substantial areas of littoral zone occur between the channel-
                 boundaries and shoreline. This type of habitat in this region serves
                 as nursery area for young herrings, shad, striped bass and white
                 perch, and as spawning and feeding areas for most of the resident freshwater
                                      C)
                 species in the river.

                 5. Deepwater Habitat
                       None

                 6.  Unique Ecological Areas
                       The Hudson River Valley Commission listed the "Cliffs west -of--'--
                 Shad and Schemerhorn Islands" as an area of biological significance.
                 This area was noted for rare plants, rare animals, areas of rare
                 ecological niches, and areas with landscape values.

                 7. Public Access
                       No developed access sites are available, however the access
                 situation is considered good through private lands. There are no
                 known fishermen concentration points. Marshes at Trib 221 and at
                 the Nuitzes Kill/Schodack Creek junctionare focal points for
                 hunters.

                                       COASTAL ZONE MAP REPORT #5
                                       East Greenbush Quad (1953.)

              Introduction

                  The dominant ecological feature is    the Papscanee Marsh. The
              only developed areas in this segment are the tank farms and railroad
              yards.@at-.the-Cit-y.of-Rensselaer, and the Village of Castleton.;--on-Hudson..

              Habitat Types

                  1. Tributaries
                        The Papscanee Creek System encompasses 11.8 miles of
                  accessible streams which may be used as spawning grounds for herrings
                  and white perch, and supports large numbers of freshwater resident
                  fish species. This system has the largest amount of accessible
                  mileage of all.the Hudson tributaries.

                      The Moordener Kill is accessible for 1.5 miles and may also be a
                  spawning stream for herrings.

                  2. Wetlands
                        Papseanee Marsh is the northernmost large marsh in the study
                  area. The marsh is approximately 5 miles long, and '-2 mile wide at
                  the widest point. It is rated as one of the most valuable and
                  productive marshes in the Upper Hudson Valley by regional wildlife
                  biologists. Large numbers of waterfowl, upland game birds, muskrats,
                  rabbits and occasional deer utilize this area. Much of this use
                  by wildlife.is attributed,to the availability of domestic corn and
                  vegetable crops grown on Papscanee Island. Considerable hunting
                  of waterfowl occurs.

                  3. Mudflats (exposed at low tide)
                        None

                  4. Littoral Zone (18' depth contour and less)
                        The first two miles of Papscanee Creek upstream from its mouth
                  has a broad backwater which is entirely littoral zone. This type of
                  habitat serves as spawning, nursery and feeding grounds. for alewife,
                  blueback herring, shad, white perch, striped bass and most of the
                  freshwater resident fish species.

                  5. Deepwater Habitats
                        None

                  6. Unique Ecological Areas
                        The Hudson River Valley Commission lists the Papscanee Marsh
                  as an area of biological significance, citing it     for rare   ecological
                  niches, areas useful for the maintenance of bird     migration stopovers,
                  river life study areas, educational uses, and for the presence of
                  rare plants.

                  7. Public Access
                        No developed public   access sites are available,    however the
                  access situation is considered good through private lands. Most,-of.
                  the marsh is accessible via the N.Y.C.R.R. bed.'

                                    COASTAL ZONE MAP REPORT #6
                                         Ravena Quad. (1953)

             Introduction
                  This area is largely undeveloped with the exception of the Villages.
             of Coeymans and New Baltimore. Substantial areas of upland relate to
             the coastal zone and are included within the proposed boundary.

             Habitat Types

                  1. Tributaries
                        Four important tributaries occur in  this stretch.   Coeymans
                  Creek (accessible for 0.3 mi.), Hannacroix Creek (1.9 mi.), Mill Creek
                  (2.7 mi.) and Coxsackie Creek (2.2 mi.) all may be significant spawning
                  streams for alewife, blueback herring, white perch, and freshwater
                  residents. The mouths of each of these tributaries encompass areas
                  of several important habitat types, primarily wetlands and tidal
                  mudflats.

                  2. Wetlands
                        No large wetland area is present, but numerous small plots
                  add up to a substantial acreage. The most important wetland areas
                  exist on Lower Schodack Island, at the mouth of Hannacroix Creek,
                  at the mouth of Mill Creek, and on Bronck Island. Upland areas
                  adjacent to wetland plots that are of importance to upland game
                  birds, small game animals and deer include all of Houghtaling and
                  Lower Schodack Islands, Bronck Island, and the mouths of Hannacroix
                  Creek and Mill Creek., These.areas are considered the major hunting
                  locations.

                  3. Mudflats (exposed at  low tide)
                        Fairly substantial areas of mudflats are present. Largest and
                  most important are mudflats at the mouth of Hannacroix Creek, along
                  Schodack Creek, along Bronck Island, at the mouth of Coxsackie Ci@eek.
                  at the mouth of Mill Creek and at the mouth of Trib. 207.

                  4. Littoral Zones (181 depth contour and less)
                        Large expanses of littoral zone exist. This region of the
                  Hudson encompasses the northernmost areas of shad spawning
                  concentrations. Littoral zone north of here is severely limited by
                  the navigation channel which covers nearly the entire width of the
                  river. Aside from serving as spawning grounds for shad, these
                                           C2
                  littoral-zones are spawning grounds, nursery areas and feeding grounds
                  for striped bass, white perch, alewife, bluebackherring, and most
                  resident freshwater species.

                  5. Deepwater habitats
                        None

                  6.  Unique Ecological Areas
                                                                            mm
                        Two areas were listed  in the Hudson River@Valley Co ission s
                  report on areas of biological significance. The mouth of Coeymans
                  Creek was cited for rare plants, rare ecological niches and areas
                  useful for the maintenance of bird migration stopovers, river life
             ..'-study-areas and educational uses. Bronck Island and cliffs west of
                  Bronck 1. were cited for these same values.@

                 7. Public Access
                      @-There-:are-@no developed piJblic access points, however access'-_--L'
                 through private lands is considered good. Access is obtained via
                 the railroad property along the east shore. Hunting activity is
                 concentrated at Houghtaling and Lower Schodack Islands, at the
                 mouth of Hannacroix Creek, Bronck Island and the mouth of Mill Creek.
                 Fishing areas include Schodack Creek and the mouths of the major
                 tributaries.

                                   COASTAL ZONE MAP REPORT #7
                                                                    (1953)
                      ..Hudson North Quad (1953) and StottvilleQuad

            Introduction

                 Large expanses of nearly all types of coastal related habitats
            occur in this region. The river widens considerably here allowing for
            very large areas of littorai zone and mudflats. Numerous "spoil islands"--
            occur in mid-river as a result of channel dredging. The City of Hudson
            and the Villages of Athens and Coxsackie are the only developed areas.

            Habitat Types

                 1. Tributaries
                       There is one tributary of major significance,-Stockport Creek.
                 This large tributary is formed by the junction of Kinderhook and
                 Claverack Creeks. This system provides 5.0 miles of accessible waters,
                 which are utilized as spawning grounds for alewife, blueback herring,
                 white perch and striped bass, plus resident species. This is one of
                 the very few streams large enough to attract striped bass and as such
                                         C3
                 is a major focal point for fishermen.

                       Tributary 207 is accessible for 3.9 mi. and Murderers Creek for
                 0.5 mi. Both may be of some significance'as spawning grounds for
                                                                       C@
                 herrings.

                 2. Wetlands,,
                       Several large wetlands and numerous scattered small plots of
                 -wetland are located here. The most important are Vosburgh Swamp,
                 mouth of Stockport Creek, Hudson North Bay, Hudson South Bay and
                 TtPowerlinell Marsh at Athens. All of these areas are frequented by
                 waterfowl hunters. Fairly abundant wetland areas, combined with
                 protected off@-channel open water areas make this section attractive
                 to waterfowl. Of particular note is the fact that redhead and
                 canvasback ducks winter in this area, both species presently receive
                 special protection because of low population levels.

                 3. Mudflats   (exposed at low tide)
                       Extremely large areas of this type habitat are-, availabe. These
                 flats serve as feeding grounds for waterfowl, shorebirds and-song
                 birds.

                 4. Littoral Zones (181 depth contour  and less)
                       Large expanses of littoral zone occur. A heavy concentration
                 of American shad utilize these shallows for spawning. The northernmost
                 commercial shad fishing occurs in the off-channel areas at Middle Ground
                 Flats and Stockport Middle Grounds. These areas are utilized as
                 spawning grounds, nursery grounds and feeding areas by striped bass,
                 shad,- alewife,-blueback herring, white perch, and most of the resident
                 freshwater species.

                 5.  Deepwater Habitats
                       None

                 6.  Unique Ecological Areas
                       Two areas were listed by  the Hudson River Valley Commission
                 as significant.

                       Vosburgh Swamp was recommended as a priority.site for
                 preservation. The area was cited for rare plants, rare animals
                 and areas useful for the maintenance of bird migration stopovers,
                 river life study areas and educational uses..

                       The mouth of Stockport Creek was cited by Hudson River Valley
                 Commission for rare plants, scenic values, and areas useful for the
                 maintenance of bird migration stopovers or river life study areas
                 and educational uses.

                       Other unique habitats are the spoil bank islands and
                 shoreline spoil deposits, which through erosion, have created
                 vertical sand banks that have been colonized by bank swallows.
                 While these birds are not rare, this area is the only one in the
                 Hudson Valley where they are found.

                 7. Public Access
                       There are two public boat launch facilities; one at Murderers
                 Creek in Athens and one in the City of Hudson. Access through
                 private lands is considered good. Prime hunting areas are located
                 at the mouth of tributary 207, around the spoil bank islands, Hudson
                 North and South Bays, Vosburgh Swamp and.','Powerline Marsh." Prime
                 fishing areas are at the mouth of Stockport Creek, mouth of Murderers
                 Creek, and off-channel areas adjacent to Middle Ground Flats,
                 Stockport Middle Grounds, and Coxsackie-Rattlesnake Islands.

                                    COASTAL ZONE MAP REPORT #8
                       Hudson South Quad (1963) -and Clermont Quad (1963)

             Introduction

                 This area also contains large expanses of diverse and important
             habitat types. The most important features include Hudson South Bay,
             Rogers Island and surrounding flats, Catskill Creek, Ramshorn Marsh-
             and the Roeliff-Jansen Kill. The only developed areas are the Cities
             of Catskill and Hudson.

             Habitat TyDes

                 1. Tributaries
                       Two extremely important tributaries  enter the Hudson in this
                 section. Catskill Creek is accessible for 9.S miles to anadromous
                 fish and is utilized as a spawning stream by alewife, blueback
                 herring, white perch, striped bass and possibly shad and smelt, as
                 well as most resident freshwater species. The Roeliff-Jansen Kill
                 is accessible for 9.7 miles and offers the same habitat to fish as
                 the Catskill Creek. It is a known smelt spawning stream. A pearl
                 roach was taken from the mouth of this stream, the only record of
                 this species.from New York State.

                 2. Wetlands
                       Two major wetland areas appear in this section, Ramshorn Marsh
                 south of Catskill Creek and South Hudson Bay, south of the City of
                 Hudson.

                       Ramshorn Marsh is by far the more valuable in t erms of natural
                 conditions and diversity of species. The National Audubon Society
                 controls a portion of this marsh as a bird sanctuary. The marsh
                 supports large numbers of waterfowl and is hunted extensively. The
                                                                                   7@
                 least bittern, a rare species, has been reported from this marsh,

                 3. Mudflats (exposed at low tide)
                       Very large areas of tidal mudflats occur here, the most
                 significant being located along Ramshorn Marsh at the mouth of the
                 Roeliff-Jansen Kill, surrounding Rogers Island, and opposite Hudson
                 South Bay. Perhaps the most significant of these are the mudflats
                 around Rogers Island. These flats are a particularly important feeding
                 area: for waterfowl,., shorebirds and songbirds. Among the waterfowl
                 food plants such as wild celery and wild rice, are at least two
                 regionally rare or unusual plant species; approximately.10 acres of
                 golden club which has declined from some 25 acres in the past, and the
                 only plot of floating yellow heart in the Hudson'Valley, Rogers
                 Island is owned by the Department of Environmental Conseration and an
                 attempt is being made to acquire an access site to the area  at Tributary
                 195..

                 4. Littoral Zones (181 depth contour and less)
                       Large areas:@of littoral zone arepresent, of major importance-.-,--
                 in* this region of-the river as.spawning grounds for the shad;. -These----.
                 areas also serve as spawning, nursery, and feeding grounds for striped
                 bass, white perch, herrings, smelt, and most of the resident freshwater
                 species.

                 5. Deepwater Habitat
                       The northernmost areas of 50 foot depth in the river occur in
                 this area. Deepwater habitat may be required  as wintering grounds for
                 the endangered shortnose sturgeon.

                 6. Unique Ecological Areas
                       The Hudson River Valley Commission listed the Catskill Cre6k-
                 Marshes (Ramshorn Marsh) as an area of biological significance in
                 that it contains rare plants, rare animals and areas useful for the
                 maintenance of bird mi-gration stopovers, river life study and
                 educational pruposes.

                       The Rogers Island area, including the surrounding flats and
                 wetlands, harbors rare plants and an abundance of waterfowl and other
                 bird species.

                 7. Public Access
                       No developed public access sites are present, however access
                 is considered good through private lands. There may be a few
                 private marinas along the lower Catskill Creek where boats can be
                 launched for a fee. Prime fishing areas are at the mouths of Catskill
                 Creek and the Roeliff-Jansen Kill. The most important hunting areas
                 are Rmnshorn Marsh and Rogers Island.

                                     COASTAL ZONE MAP REPORT #9
                                        Cementon Quad (1963)

              Introduction

                  This area.is characterized by an,extensive littoral zone and     'tidal
              mudflats. Dominant features are Duck Cove - Inbocht Bay and the
              southern half of-Ramshorn Marsh. While the-area is not extensively.
              developed, three large cement plants are located around Duck Cove
              Inbocht Bay.

              Habitat Types

                  1.  Tributaries
                        No significant tributaries enter the Hudson in this section.

                  2.  Wetlands
                        The most important wetland is Ramshorn Marsh which was
                  discussed in Map Report 4TT8. Additional areas of wetland exist
                  around the periphery of Duck Cove - Inbocht Bay, south of Silver Point
                  and at Wanton Island. Waterfowl are particularly abundant in the
                  Duck Cove - Inbocht Bay area.

                  3. Mudflats Cexposed at low tide)
                        A wide band of mudflats exists around the periphery of Ramshorn
                  Marsh and Duck Cove - Inbocht Bay and may be the main reason for the
                  high numbers of waterfowl and other birds present in the area. Large
                  concentrations of muskrats and snapping turtles are known from this
                  area as well as waterfowl species.

                  4. Littoral Zones (181 depth contour and less)
                        Areas of littoral zone are of greatest importance to shad as
                  spawning grounds in this region. This is particularly so in the case-
                  of mid-river shoals with adjacent off-channel deeper waters, such as
                  Silver Point Flats and Cheviot Flats.

                  5. Deepwater Habitat
                        A small area of over 50 feet in depth occurs off Wanton Island.
                  Deepwater habitat may be of importance as wintering areas for shortnose
                  sturgeon.

                  6. Unique Ecological Areas
                        Duck Cove - Inbocht Bay was cited by the Hudson River Valley
                  Commission for rare plants and areas useful for the.maintenance.of bird
                  migration stopovers, river life study and educational uses.

                  7. Public Access
                        No developed public access exists in this area, although access
                  through private lands is considered good. Prime hunting areas are
                  Duck Cove - Inbocht Bay, Ramshorn Marsh and Wanton Island. Prime
                  fishing areas are Catskill Creek and Duck Cove -'Inbocht Bay. Also
                  commercial shad fishermen work the off      channel areas of the main
                  river.

                                    COASTAL ZONE.MAP REPORT #10
                                      Saugerties Quad (1963)

             Introduction

                  Major features include very extensive areas.of shoals in mid-
             river, Esopus Creek and Estuary, North and South Tivoli Bays and
             Cruger Island. Developed areas are Malden-on-Hudson, Saugerties and
             Glasco.

             Habitat Types

                  1. Tributaries
                       The Esopus Creek, while minimal in accessible mileage
                  (1.3 mi@, is extremely important to the fisheries resource. The
                  strean serves as a spawning ground, nursery area and feeding ground
                                                                                C=
                  for striped bass, white perch, shad, alewife, blueback herring,
                  smelt, and most of the resident freshwater species, in particular
                  large and smallmouth bass.

                       The tidal portion has been subjected to heavy development
                  on both banks, including residences, marinas, derelict factory
                  buildings and industrial operations. Fishing pressure is heavy on
                                                               C2
                  this stream during the entire season.

                       The-Stony Kill and Saw Kill Creek, flowing into North and South
                  Tivoli Bays respectively, while not accessible beyond their mouths,
                  are both utilized by alewife, blueback herring,white perch and smelt
                  as spawning areas. South Tivoli Bay, in particular, is noted for
                  fair populations of striped bass in the spring, and large populations
                  of large and smallmouth bass year round.

                  2. Wetlands
                       The significant marsh area encompassing North and South Tivoli
                  Bays and Cruger Island has been the subject of several studies.
                  Twenty-six species of fish have been collected from the area, the
                  most important being the alewife, eel, carp, goldfish, killifish and
                  striped bass.   Diversity of reptiles and ampfiibians is low, but
                  an extremely large population-of snapping turtles exists in North Bay.
                  Since 1970, 135 species of birds have been observed in the area.
                  Rare or unusual species observed include the osprey, great blue heron,
                  black-crowned night heron, American bittern and marsh hawk. Mammal
                  species diversity is low, but muskrats are abundant.

                       There is a small area of wetland at the mouth   of Esopus Creek
                  which-supports small numbers of migratory waterfowl  and receives
                  minimal hunting pressure.

                  3. Mudflats; (exposed at low tide)
                       Relatively small areas , of mudflats are located in mid-river at
                  Greens Flats, at the mouth of Esopus Creek and at North and South
                  Tivoli Bays.

                  4. Littoral Zones (181 depth contour and less)
                        Large expanses of littoral zone here and to the south serve.
                  at the central spawnincr-grounds for the majority of the Hudson River
                                         CD
                  shad. This is attributed to the availability of shallows for spawning
                  directly adjacent to off-channel deepwater resting areas.

                        Again, the littoral zones serve as spawning nursery    and feeding
                  grounds.for striped bass, white perch, herrings, smelt and resident-
                  freshwater species.

                  5. Deepwater Habitats
                        Three areas in this region exceed 50 feet in depth; off Greens
                  Flats, off the mouth of Esopus Creek, and off Crugerlsland. These
                  deepwater zones may serve as wintering habitat for the shortnose
                  sturgeon.

                  6. Unique Ecological Areas
                        Two areas were listed by the Hudson River Valley Commission as
                  significant, Esopus Estuary and Cruger Island - North Tivoli Bay.

                        Esopus Estuary was cited for rare plants, rare ecological niches
                 .and areas useful to the maintenance of bird migration stopovers, river
                  life study and educational purposes.

                        Cruger Island - North Bay was cited for rare plants, scenic
                  values and areas useful for the maintenance of bird migration stopovers,
                  river life study and educational uses. South Bay and Magdalen Island
                  should be included in this ecological unit as they are integral parts
                  of it.

                  7. Public Access
                        No developed public access is available, however access through
                  private lands is good. Concentration points for hunters are the
                  Esopus Estuary and North Tivoli Bay. Some hunting also is done in the
                  Greens Flats - Upper Flats area. Prime fishing areas are in the Esopus
                  Creek, off Cruger Island, South Tivoli Bay and at Barrytown. Commercial
                  shad fishermen work the off-channel areas adjacent to the flats.

                                    COASTAL ZONE MAP REPORT #11
                      Kingston East Quad (1963) and Kingston West Quad (1964)

             Introduction

                 Dominant features are "The Flats" in mid-river, the mouth of
             Rondout Creek numerous tidal embayments along the east shore, and
             Esopus Meadows. Developed areas include the City of Kingston and
             Villages of East Kingston, Port Ewen, and Rhinecliff.

             Habitat Types

                 1. Tributaries
                       Rondout Creek, the major tributary, is one of the most important
                 in the entire Hudson Valley. It is accessible to anadromous fish
                 for 5.4 miles, and utilized as a spawning, feeding, and nursery
                 ground by striped bass, white perch, shad, alewife, blueback herring,
                 and.smelt. Resident freshwater species that are particularly abundant
                 are large and smallmouth bass, walleyes and sunfishes. Several
                 industries are located along its banks, including a barge manufacturing
                 yard, a gravel operation and a junk car processing and shipping
                 facility. Marinas and residential developments are numerous. However,
                 approximately 50 percent of the immediate shoreline of the Creek is
                 still undeveloped. Fishing is excellent, particularly in the first
                 mile below the dam at Eddyville.

                       The Landsman Kill and Fallsburg Creek, both emptying into.
                 Vanderburgh Cove are important spawning tri-butaries for smelt,
                 alewives, blueback herring and white perch. There is considerable.
                 interest in dip-netting smelt and herrings from these streams.

                       The numerous coves along the east shore, while not tributaries,
                 serve the same function as tributaries in providing spawning, nursery
                 and feeding habitat for both resident and anadromous species. These
                 coves are attractive to waterfowl as they offer protection from
                 weather 'conditions on the main river and are frequently vegetated
                 with stands of wild rice, wild celery and other waterfowl foods. This
                 is particularly the case with Astor, Suckley and Vanderburgh Coves.
                 An osprey was sighted at Astor Cove. Map turtles are present from
                 Suckley Cove south. -These turtles utilize the coves as feeding areas,
                 and certain rock outcrops for basking and breeding areas. Jones
                 Island is a known breeding location for map turtles.

                 2. Wetlands
                       The only area of wetland occurs at the mouth of Rondout Creek.-
                 Limited numbers of waterfowl utilize this area and some hunting
                 occurs. A rare species of cricket has been reported from Sleightsburg,
                 a part of this marsh area.

                 3. Mudflats (exposed at low tide)
                       The only areas of tidal mudflats also occur at the mouth of---------
                 the Rondout and provide feeding grounds for waterfowl, shorebirds
                 and songbirds.

                       A very small amount of wetland and mudflats occurs further
                 up the Rondout at Gumaer Island, which may support a very limited
                 number of-waterfowl and is probably an important spawning and
                 feeding area for some of the resident freshwater fish species of
                 lower Rondout Creek.

                 4. Littoral Zones (181 depth contour and less)
                       The expansive, mid-river mound known as "The Flats" is
                 considered to be at the center of the peak spawning area for the shad.
                 Other large areas of littoral zone occur at Kingston Point, Rondout
                 Flats, Esopus Meadows and adjacent to Suckley Cove. All of these
                 areas are important shad spawning 'grounds, and also serve as spawning,
                 feeding and nursery grounds for striped bass, alewife, blueback herring,
                 white perch, possibly tomcod and sturgeons, and most of the resident
                 freshwater fish species.

                 5. Deepwater Habitat
                       This is the northernmost area of the Hudson where deepwater
                 habitat (50 feet deep or greater) is extensive. From the mouth of
                 Rondout Creek south, there is a nearly continuous trench ofthis
                 depth or greater. These deep trenches trap pockets of denser saline
                 water which may serve as wintering habitat for shortnose sturgeon,
                 and definitely account for the presence of greater numbers of marine
                 species of fish than anywhere further upriver, especially during
                 periods of low freshwater flows. The majority of both Atlantic and
                 shortnose sturgeon taken for age-growth analysis during a 1936
                 biological survey came from Rhinecliff and Port Ewen. More recent
                 fisheries investigations of the Hudson continue to indicate the
                 presence of sturgeons in this area.

                 6. Unique Ecological Areas
                       The Hudson River Valley Commission cited the area of
                 Sleightsburg and Kingston Points (mouth of Rondout Creek) for rare
                 plants, rare ecological niches and areas useful to the maintenance of
                 bird migration stopovers, river life study and educational uses.

                 7. Public Access
                       No developed public access is available, however access
                 through pri-vate lands is considered-good. Prime hunting areas
                 include the coves along the east shore, mouth of Rondout Creek, and
                 Esopus Meadows. The most important fishing areas are Rondout Creek
                 and the east shore coves. Commefeial fishermen work the areas
                 adjacent to "the Flats" for shad. There are numerous marinas along
                 -the Rondout which may provide -boat launching facilities for a fee.-:,

                                   CQASTAL ZONE MAP REPORT #12
                                    Hyde Park Quad (1963)

             Introduction

                  The physical character of the river changes dramatically here,
             from a broad relatively shallow situation from Esopus Meadows north,
             to a narrowl, deep situation with nearly no littoral zone to the south.
             The most important features are Esopus Meadows, mouth of Black Creek,
             and a deep trench at Crum Elbow. Hyde Park is the only developed area
             but it is located some distance off the waterfront.

             Habitat-Types

                  1. Tributaries
                       The most important tributary is Black Creek. This is a known
                  spawning stream for herrings and smelt, and there is a substantial
                  dip-net fishery for these species during the spring spawning runs.
                  The stream is accessible for about 1.4 miles.

                     Other tributaries of somewhat lesser importance as herring
                                                                               C=
                  and smelt spawning streams are the Indian Kill (1.1 mi.), Maritje Kill
                  (0.5 mi.) and Crum Elbow Creek (0.1 mi.).

                  2. Wetlands
                       The majority of wetland areas are too small to be mapped.
                  Esopus Meadows, while not exhibiting the plant species diversity
                  of a typical wetland, serves as an important rafting and feeding area
                  for waterfowl. Species observed in this area include snow geese,
                  blue geese, Canada geese, canvasback duck and brants.

                     Other small plots of wetland occur along the Indian Kill quad mouth
                  of Black Creek.

                  3. Mudflats (exposed at low tide)
                       None

                  4. Littoral Zones (181 depth contour and less)
                       A very narrow fringe of littoral zone borders both shorelines,
                  however the only significant expanses of littoral zone occur at
                  Esopus Meadows, adjacent to Vanderburgh Cove, and from the mouth
                  of the Indian Kill south for about 111 miles.

                  5. Deepwater Habitat,
                       Approximately half of the watercourse in this section is  over
                  50 feet deep. A small area in the Crum Elbow section exceeds 100 feet
                  in depth. Yolk-sac sturgeon larvae have been collected from this
                  region at depths of -45 to 120 feet. Again, the importance of deepwater
                  habitat,to-:sturgeons is indicated. The presence of other marine fish
              ..-.species not found in abundance upriver is assumed to be an effect-of.
                  these deep areas trapping dense saline waters'. The deep "hole" at
                  Crum Elbow has been used as a spoil dump by the Army Corps of Engineers.

                 6. Unique Ecological Areas
                       The Hudson Raver Valley Commission listed the F.D.R. Nationil-
                 Historic Site as a significant area and cited it for rare animals,
                 rare plants and as an area in existing park which in long term
                 planning should be maintained in a natural state.   This site-should
                 be expanded to include all of Crum Elbow and bordering cliffs on-its
                 west shore up to the elevation of a visual overlook of the river, and
                 portions of the east shore to include Roosevelt Cove and the
                 Maritje Kill.

                 7. Tublic Access
                       Access exists through both public and private lands. Public
                 lands include the F.D.R. and Vanderbilt National Historic Sites and
                 the Mi-lls and Norrie State Parks. Prime hunting areas include Esopus
                 Meadows and the mouth of Black Creek. Fishing areas include Black Creek,
                 the Indian Ki-11, Crum Elbow Creek and Maritje Kill.

                                   COASTAL ZONE MAP REPORT #13
                                     Poughkeepsie Quad (1957)

            Introduction

                This area.is categorized by high banks for the entire length,with
            no wetlands, no muelats and a minimal fringe of littoral zone.
            Developed-areas are-the City of Poughkeepsie and the Village of Highland.,

            Habitat Types

                1. Tributaries
                      None of significance with the exception of Casper Creek, which
                is discussed in Map Report #14. Three coves of importance to fish
                and waterfowl are present, Sunfish Cove and Cove opposite, and
                Barnegat Cove. The values of these coves are unknown, but it is
                assumed they serve as spawning grounds for some anadromous fish and
                most of the freshwater resident -fish, and as protected feeding and
                resting areas for waterfowl.

                2.  Wetlands
                      None

                3.  Mudflats  (exposed at low-tide)
                      None
                4.  Littoral Zone (181 depth contour and less)
                      Littoral zone is at a minimum as compared to other areas in  the
                Hudson corridor. That which is available is most likely utilized   as
                spawning. nursery and feeding habitat for striped bass, white perch,
                shad, herrings, tomcod and most resident freshwater species of fish.

                5. Deepwater Habitat
                      Approximately 80 percent of the course of the river here is over
                50 feet deep. Two post yolk-sac sturgeon larve were collected from
                this section in 1973. Additional estuarine and marine species begin
                to appear in numbers in this section, including bay anchovy, silversides,
                bluefish, weakfish, hog choker, and blue-claw crabs, giving further
                                      C2                              C2
                indication of the river's transitional condition at this point from a
                freshwater environment to an estuarine environment.

                6. Unique Ecological Areas
                      None were listed by the Hudson River Valley Commission. An
                area which should beconsidered is the.range of cliffs, rock outcrops
                and steep slopes7along the west bank, south to the vicinity of the
                Village of Milton. These cliffs extend north into the Crum Elbow area
                described in map report #12. The area encompassed should include all
                lands up to the point of visual overlooks of the river.

                7. Public Access
                      Access to the coastal resource in this area is considered.poor.-.-
                No public access facilities exist, steep shorelines on the west bank
                prevent access, and the development along the east shore prevents
                access at many points. There are a few private marinas which may
                provide boat launching facilities for a fee. Commercial fishermen work
                the entire section for shad and striped bass.

                                   COASTAL ZONE MAP REPORT #14
                                Wappingers Falls Quad (1956) and
                                      Newburgh Quad (1957)

             Introduction

                 Habitat diversity:inereases substantially compared to areas to.the
             north. Three important tributaries enter the river, a small but
             significant wetland occurs, and there are large expanses of littoral
             zone and deepwater habitat. Developed areas include the Cities of
             Beacon and Newburgh, and the Villages of Marlboro, New Hamburg and
             Wappingers Falls.-. -Waterfront industry is substantial including the
             Roseton and Danskammer power plants, the Chelsea pumping station, Lone
             Star Industries gravel plant, and freight and oil terminals at Newburgh
             and Beacon.

             Habitat Types

                 1. Tributaries
                       Wappingers. Creek is one of the most important tributaries in
                 the Lower Hudson Valley. It is accessible for 2.1 miles to anadromous
                 species, and serves as spawning, nursery and feeding grounds for striped
                 bass, white perch, alewife, blueback herring, tomcod and resident
                 freshwater species. Largemouth bass and sunfish are particularly
                 abundant.

                       Cobalt Lake and Casper Creek constitute a unique situation in
                 the Hudson corridor in that this is the only situation where a lake
                 is accessible from the main river. The system, including the lake,
                 is accessible for 2.3 miles. The lake and stream support a good
                 population of largemouth bass and sunfish. Use by anadromous species
                 is unknown. The lake and lower stream are surrounded by a major gravel
                 mining and washing installation. Cobalt Lake may have been originally
                 formed from mining operations.

                       Tributary 103 and its first tributary form a system known as the
                 Marlboro Estuary. The streams are accessible for 1.1 miles and are
                 probably utilized as spawning, nursery and feeding grounds for striped
                 bass, white perch, herrings, and tomeod.

                 2. Wetlands
                       A small amount of wetland occurs at the mouth of tributary-idi-
                 -which -supports minimal numbers of waterfowl. Some hunting occurs_ in'.
                 this marsh.

                 3. Mudflats (exposed at low tide)
                       None

                 4. Littoral Zones (181 depth contour and less)
                     -.-Large expanses of littoral zone are present-particularly a
                 the mouth of Wappingers Creek, and along the east bank from Beacon
                 to Chelsea. Groups of rafting waterfowl have been observed over
                 both these areas. These littoral zones serve as important spawning,
                 nursery and feeding grounds for striped bass, white perch, shad,.
                 alewife, blueback herring, tomood and most resident freshwater
                 -species. Sturgeon are abundant throughout this reach which@may be.
                 the result of available littoral and deepwater habitats in close
                 proximity.

                 5. Deepwater Habitat
                       Deepwater areas are fairly abundant in this region. A major
                 area of over 50 feet in depth occurs off the mouth of Wappingers
                 Creek. The majority of the waterway is over 40 feet deep. This
                 type of habitat may be important as wintering area for sturgeons and
                 as a migratory conduit for marine and estuarine species which
                 frequently reach this area during low freshwater flow periods.

                 6. Unique Ecological Areas
                       The Marlboro Estuary was listed by the Hudson River Valley
                 Commission as a significant area cited for rare plants, rare ecological
                 niches and areas useful for the maintenance of bird migration stopovers,
                 river life study and educational uses.

                       Additionally, Dutchess County has designated a strip of cliffs
                 and wooded steep slopes along the north shore of Wappingers Creek as
                 a unique area.

                 7. Public Access
                       There is one developed public access in the City of Newburgh.
                 Access through private lands is considered good. This is particularly
                 so where the Penn Central Railroad line fronts the river. The only
                 known hunting area is the marsh at Marlboro. Prime fishing areas are
                 Marlboro Estuary and the mouth of Wappingers Creek. Commercial
                 fishermen work the main course of the river for shad and striped bass.

                                     COASTAL ZONE MAP REPORT #15
                           West Point Quad (1957) and Cornwall Quad (1957)

              Introduction

                 Habitat diversity is high in this region. Major features include
              two important tributaries, Fishkill and Moodna Creeks, two major
              wetlands, large areas of littoral zone and an abundance of deepwater
              habitat up to 200 feet. The dominant geographical feature of this area
              is the "Hudson Highlands" range of mountains.which bisects the area in a
              NE-SW direction along a line between Beacon and Cornwall. This range of
              mountains causes a moderate climatic break, with areas north of.the range
              subject to interior weather conditions and areas south of the range
              subject to the more moderate coastal climate. The salt front (defined
              as the 50 ppm isochlor) reaches this area practically every year.

                 Developed areas include the Cities of Newburg and Beacon and the
              Villaaes of Cornwall and Cold Spring. Industrial development is centered
                                                 C)
              in the Newburg-Beacon area.

              Habitat Types

                 1. Tributaries
                       Fishkill Creek is one of the most important tributaries in the
                 Lower Hudson watershed. It is accessible to anadromous fish for 1.1
                 miles. The stream is utilized for spawning, nursery and.feeding by
                 striped bass, white perch, alewife, blueback herring, tomeod and most
                 resident freshwater species. During periods of salt front intrusion
                 marine species become abundant at the stream mouth, particu-1arly
                 bluefish, anchovy, silversides, weakfish, hog choker and blueclaw
                 crab. This tributary probably marks the northern extent of the
                 blueclaw crab fishery.

                       Moodna Creek is accessible for 4.4 miles and serves the same
                 functions and has the same species and use profile as Fishkill Creek.

                       Quassaic Creek is accessible for 1.0 mile. Use is unknown.

                 2. Wetlands
                       Two major wetlands occur here. The mouth'of Moodna Creek is
                 a relatively small but important wetland. Waterfowl use this. area
                 for feeding and some hunting occurs. Short-billed marsh wrens are
                 known to nest here.

                     Constitution Island Marsh is an Audubon sanctuary and one of the
                 most important marshes in the Lower Hudson Valley. Bird species
                 recorded from this marsh probably number over 200. Prickly pear
                 cactus, a rare plant, is known from the island adjacent to the-marsh
                 itself. Fence lizards may also be present.

                 3. Mudflats (exposed at low tide)
                     . This habitat type is very limited in this area. The only mudflats
                 occur at the mouth of Fishkill Creek and at Constitution Island Marsh.

                                    COASTAL ZONE MAP REPORT Irt-116
                                       Peekskill Quad (1957)

             Introduction

                 Habitat diversity is high in this region, the dominant features
             including the Hudson Highlands, Iona Island Marsh, Peekskill Bay and
             Annsville :Creek. Developed areas are Highland Falls, Peekskil I ., - -.:: - @ -_@ @.. @ _: 1. _.
             Buchanan and Verplanck. Two major power plants are located here one
             at Indian Point and one at Tompkins Cove.

             Habitat Types

                 1. Tributaries
                       Annsville - Sprout - Peekskill Hollow Brook system, is the
                 most important tributary. The system is accessible for 2.7 miles,
                 and serves as spawning, nursery and feeding grounds for striped
                 bass, white perch, alewife, blueback herring, smelt and most
                 resident freshwater species. Blue crabs enter the stream annually
                 and become abundant particularly in lower Annsville Creek. The
                 streams were formerly bounded by substantialareas of marsh but
                 these have been mostly filled.

                     Popolopen Brook (0.6 mi.), and Dickey Brook (0.8 mi.) are of
                 minor importance to herrings, white perch, smelt and freshwater
                 species. Blue crabs become seasonally abundant and the fishery for
                 them is at times intense from bridge crossings.

                       Lake Meahagh, is a tidal embayment of some significance as
                 spawning, nursery and feeding grounds for both anadromous and
                 freshwater fish species and blue crabs. It is one of the few
                 locations where the rare bluespotted sunfish has been collected from
                 the Hudson.

                 2. Wetlands
                       Three extremely important wetlands occur here, Con Hook,
                 Iona Island and Manitou. Iona Island Marsh is the largest of the
                 three and one of the most studied on the Hudson. Species diversity
                 is very high including 200 species of plants, 208 species of birds,
                 25 species of mammals,,, 9 species of reptiles, 10 species of
                 amphibians and 21,species of fish. The.lists of fish, reptiles
                 and amphibians are by no means complete. Several uncommon or
                 unusual rare species have been recorded from the area including,.
                                  -fence lizards,
                 5 - lined skinks,                bluespotted sunfish, prickly pear
                 cactus, otter, least bittern, golden eagle, bald eagle,.peregrine
                 falcon and osprey.

                       Con Hook and Manitou Marshes are less well known, smaller in
                                     -ess diverse in species composition. However,_,they-
                 -area, and -probably:--l
                -''are important as waterfowl feeding areas and migration stops, and some--
                 hunting occurs.

                 4. Littoral Zone (181 depth contour and less)
                      -Large expanses of littoral zone are available at the mouth-61'_
                 Moodna Creek, and along the east shore from Deming Point to
                 Constitution Island. Littoral zones in this area are of critical
                 importance to the striped bass as spawning, nursery and feeding
                 grounds. Striped bass spawning is most intense through this area,and
                 south. Other species utilizing these areas include shad, alewife,
                 blueback herring, tomeod, sturgeons, resident freshwater-species,-
                 and blue claw crabs. Additionally the area between Cold Spring and
                 Demming Point.is a concentration point for rafting waterfowl. As
                 many as 1,000 rafting canvasback ducks have been observed.

                 5. Deepwater Habitat
                       Water depths of up to 200 feet occur in this region, and these
                 deep zones are of extreme importance to striped bass and sturgeons.
                 Sturgeons may require these deepwater zones as wintering and spawning
                 habitat. Other marine species become increasingly abundant in this
                 region due to frequent salt front intrusion. This is particularly
                 the case with bluefish and blue claw crabs. The crab fishery becomes
                 quite intense during the late summer and early fall, when salt
                 intrusion is at a maximum.

                 6. Uniaue Ecological Areas
                       The Hudson River Valley Commission lists Constitution Island
                 and Marsh as a significant area, citing it for rare plants, rare
                 ecological niches, landscape values and areas useful for the
                 maintenance of bird migration stopovers.

                     Bull Hill was cited by the Hudson River Val-ley.Commission:for
                 rare plants, rare animals and scenic values.

                     A major hawk crossing point occurs on the Hudson between Beacon
                 and Cornwall,, parallel to the north slope of the Hudson Highlands.

                 7. Public Access
                       No developed public access occurs in this region, however access
                                                                     C3
                 through private lands is good, particularly through the railroad
                 properties. Prime hunting areas are the mouths of Fishkill and
                 Moodna Creeks. Prime fishing areas are Demming Point, mouth of
                 Fishkill Creek, Moodna Creek, Cornwall Landing, Little Stony,Point,
                 Foundary Cove and South Constitution Island Cove. Crabbers concentrate
                 on the railrcoad bridges at Fishkill Creek, Moodna Creek, Cold Spring,,
                 Foundary Cove and South Constitution Island Cove. Commercial_
                 -fishermen work the main river for shad and striped bass, particularly
                 where the river widens at Beacon and Cornwall.

                 3. Mudflats (exposed at low tide)
                       Very few mudflats occur in this region, however those that---'*-----
                 are present are utilized heavily by ducks, Canada geese and swans.
                 The presence of geese and swan is largely attributed to increasing
                 human presence. People feed these birds regularly and as a -result
                 many are attracted and winter over. Concentration areas for geese
                 and swans are Iona Island Marsh, Annsville Creek, Peekskill Bay
                 Lents Cove and Lake Meahagh.

                 4.. Littoral Zones (181 depth contour  and less)
                       Littoral zone is rather limited  in this area, the only major
                 expanses occurring at,Peekskill Bay and Iona Island. This littoral
                 zone is particularly critical to the striped bass in this region as
                 their major spawning grounds are located here and just to the north.
                 Young stripers utilize the littoral zone of this area at various
                 times of year.   Maximum fish species diversity for the entire river
                 occurs in this region.

                 5. Deepwater Habitat
                       Approximately 75 percent of the  watercourse through this quad
                 is over 50 feet deep. The importance   of this type of habitat to
                 sturgeons and other marine species has been stressed in previous
                 map reports.

                 6. Unique Ecological Areas
                       Three sites were mentioned by the Hudson River Valley Commission
                 for biological significance.

                       Anthony's Nose was cited for rare plants, rare ecological
                 niches, scenic values and as an area useful for the maintenance   of
                 bird migration stopovers, river life study or educational uses.

                       Salisbury Meadow (Iona Island Marsh) was cited for rare plants,
                 rare ecological niches and an area useful for the maintenance of
                 bird migration stopovers, river life study or educational uses.

                       Dunderberg Mountain was cited for rare plants, scenic values
                 and areas useful for the maintenance of bird migration stopovers,
                 river life study or educational uses.

                       A major hawk crossing occurs along the south face of the
                 Hudson Highlands between Dunderburg Mountain and Annsville Creek.

                 7. Public Access
                       Public access is obtained  through the lands of Bear Mountaln
                 State Park. No other developed   public access is available, however
                 access through private lands is  considered good. The City of Peekskill
                 has a municipal boat launch for  town residents. Hunting areas become
               @:.,scarcer -from -here south as human:density. -@increases dramatically-.-
                 Con Hook and Manitou Marshes provide some hunting. Prime fishing
                 areas include practically all railroad bridge crossiaig and the bays
                 around Iona Island and Annsville Creek. Commercial shad and striper
                 fishermen work the off-channel shallows.

                                     COASTU ZONE MAP REPORT #17
                             Haverstraw Quad (1967) Ossining Quad (1967)

             Introduction

                 Habitat diversity remains very high in this region,.including two major
             tributary systems,.wetlands, mudflats, tremendous expanses of littoral
             zone, and  the beginning of the Palisades cliffs. Residential-and
             industrial development is extensive, including the cities of Stony Point,
             Haverstraw, Croton-on-Hudson, and Ossining. A major electric power
             generating station is located at Bowline Toint.

             Habitat Types

                 1. Tributaries
                        Cedar Pond Brook and Minisceongo Creek form a tributary system
                 accessible for 6.7 miles. The most important segment of the system
                 is the extensive area of lowland meanders forming a delta entering
                 Stony Point Bay. The streams are utilized by striped bass, white
                 perch, alewife, blueback herring, smelt, tomcod, and many resident
                 freshwater species for spawning, nursery and feeding 'grounds. Blueclaw
                 crabs become abundant in the lower sections in the late summer and
                 early fall, and there is an intense fishery for them, at practically
                 every bridge crossing.

                        The Croton River is accessible for 3.5 miles and is one of the
                 most important tributaries in the lower Hudson watershed. It is
                 known to be a spawning stream for striped bass, white perch, shad,
                 herrings, smelt, tomeod and resident freshwater species. The blue-
                 claw crab becomes abundant in the lower section in the late summer
                 and early fall.

                 2. Wetlands
                        Two large areas of wetland  occur, one at Croton Point and one
                 at'the mouths of Minisceongo and   Cedar Pond Brooks. Other small plots
                 of wetland occur at Stony Point and Oscawana Island. These areas are
                 important to migratory waterfowl as stopovers and feeding areas.
                 Waterfowl species diversity and numbers are very high in this area,
                 attributable mostly to large expanses of relatively protected rafting
                 and feeding areas.

                 3. Mudflats (exposed at low tide)
                        A moderate area of mudflats  occurs at the mouth of Croton
                --River-and into Croton Bay. This area is   a concentration point.for--
                 waterfowl, particularly swans and Canada   geese which use the flats
                 as feeding and resting areas. Large numbers of swans and Canada
                 geese are found at Greens Cove, Stony Point Bay, and Croton Bay,
                 attributed-in part ta the increasing human population, which often feeds
                 these birds encouraging them to remain at these locations.

                 4. Littoral Zones (181 depth contour and less)
                       Tremendous expanses of littoral zone are present here and
                 to the south which are of critical importance to the young of every
                 anadromous Hudson River fish species.,-'These shallows are the
              -..-last riverine feeding ground for young anadromous species before
                 they go,to sea, and as such become a concentration.area in the fall.

                       Historically this area was one of the greatest oyster
                 producing grounds along the Atlantic coast. Plots labeled SP on
                 the study area maps indicate the location of the last lease'of river
                 bottom for the production of oysters to occur in the.Hudson (1952).

                 5. Deepwater Habitat
                      Water depths in excess of 50 feet are limited to the northern
                 mile of this section. Average depth excluding the littoral zone is
                 approximately 30 feet.

                 6. Unique Ecological Areas
                       The Hudson River Valley Comnission listed two areas of
                 biological significance.

                       Palisades Interstate Park (including High-Tor and Hook Mtn
                 Parks) was cited for landscape values, rare animals, rare
                 ecological niches, areas useful to the maintenance of bird
                 migration stopovers or river life study areas and educational uses,
                 and rare plants.

                       Croton Point was cited forrare plants,rare ecological.,
                 niches and an area useful to the maintenance of bird migration
                 stopovers, river life study and educational uses.

                 7. Public Access
                       Public access to the coastal zone resource is considered good
                 in this region. Waterfront parks include Stony Point, Georges Island,
                 Croton Point and Hook Mtn. Access through private lands is also good.
                 Some hunting may occur in the Minisceongo-Cedar Pond Brook marshes,
                 Oscawana Island Marsh and at Croton Point, but it is minimal.
                 Fishermen concentration points include Stony Point and Bay, Greens
                 Cove, Croton River and Bayand  Croton Point.   Commercial stake gill
                 netters work the littoral zone areas extensively for striped bass and
                 shad.

                                     COASTAL ZONE MAP REPORT #18
                             Nyack Quad (1957) White Plains Quad (1967)

             Introduction

                  Habitat diversity is somewhat reduced in this stretch as a result
            ...of inereasing,shoreline residential and industrial development., -Natural
             areas include Hook Mountain andTallman Mountain State Parks. '-Urban
             centers include the Cities of Nyack, Piermont, Greenburgh, Irvington and
             Tarrytown.

             Habitat Types

                  1. Tributaries
                        The only tributary of significance is the Sparkill Creek in
                  Tallman State Park. It is accessible for 1.0 mile. Use by
                  anadromous species is unknown.

                  2. Wetlands
                        Piermont Marsh, a part of Tallman State Park is the only marsh
                  in this region. It is unique in that it is the only salt.marsh in
                  the lower Hudson. This marsh is currently under the protection of
                  the Tidal Wetlands Act of 1974. It is an important stopover for
                  migrating waterfowl.

                  3. Mudflats (exposed at low tide)
                        The only mudflats occurring in this region are along the fringes
                  of Piermont Marsh. These flats are important feeding areas for
                  waterfowl, shore and songbirds inhabiting the marsh.

                  4. Littoral Zones (181 depth contour and less)
                        Tremendous expanses of littoral zone occur in this section and
                  are critical importance to the young of all anadromous Hudson River
                  species. Young fish concentrate over these areas in the late summer
                                CD
                  and fall on their outmigration to sea.

                        Shellfish bed leases for 1952 are shown on thestudy area maps
                  to indicate the available habitat for commerical shellfish.

                  5. Deepwater Habitat
                        Maximum depth in this section reaches slightly over 50 feet.
                  -The majority.
                               -of-the watercourse excluding littoral zones, averages
                  35 feet deep.

                  6. Unique Ecological Areas
                        The Hudson River Valley Commission listed two areas of
                  biological significance.

                        Hook Mtn. State Park was cited for rare plants, scenic     values,
                  rare ecological niches, and areas useful to the maintenance of bird
                  migration stopovers, river life stud and educational uses.

                        Piermont Marsh was considered a critical site for preservation
                  for the same reasons.-

                 7. Public Access
                       Access is considered good through public lands and poor thr6dgh
                 private lands in this section. Extensive residential and industrial
                 shoreline development is the reason for poor access through private
                 lands. A municipal boat launch is located at Nyack. Fishing is not
                 concentrated in any one area but generally scattered along shoreline
                 piers. -Piermont Pier is utilized fairly frequently by fishermen.
                 Hunting is inconsequential in this region.

              June 1976

                                                                                              .-DATE DUE
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