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                           Biological and Natural Community Analyses of the
                        Coastal Zone of Kent     County, Delaware (Task No. 924)

                                               FINAL REPORT




                                                 Submitted to:


                        DELAWAM COASTAL MANAGEMEM PROGRAM

                                                 January 1994


                                                      by

                                      Delaware Natural Heritage Inventory
                                        Division of Parks and Recreation
                           Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
                                 89 Kings Hy., Dover, DE 19903 (302) 739-5285








                                             Principle Investigators:

                                 Christopher Heckscher  ............ Zoologist
                                 Keith Clancy  ......................... CommunityEcologist
                                 William McAvoy  .................... Botanist






                       C@Bio'ogical and Natural Community Analyses of the
                          astal Zone of Kent County, Delaware (Task No. 924)

                                              FINAL REPORT




                                                Submit ted to:


                       DELAWARE COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM


                                                January 1994


                                                     by

                                     Delaware Natural Heritage Inventory
                                       Division of Parks and Recreation
                          Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
                                89 Kings Hy., Dover, DE 19903 (302) 739-5285








                                            Principle Investigators:

                                Christopher Heckscher  ............ Zoologist
                                Keith Clancy  ......................... Community Ecologist
                                William McAvoy  .................... Botanist











                                      TABLE OF CONTENTS
            INTRODUCTION  .....................................          Page 1No.
            METHODS ..........................................                1
            RESULTS ...........................   %..............             2
              Survey sites  .............................................     2
                Bennetts Pier Quadrangle  ..............................      2
                  1. Bennetts Pier    ...................................     2
                  2. Big Stone Beach   .................................      4
                Bombay Hook Quadrangle    ...............................     5
                  1. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge      ............   5
                Burrsville Quadrangle    ................................     7
                  1. White Marsh Branch Woods     ........................    7
                Dover Quadrangle    .....................................     8
                  1. Mudstone Branch   .................................      8
                     A. E. of Kenton RD   ..............................      8
                     B. Near Fork Branch    .............................    12
                  2. Forest W. of Cheswold    ...........................    13
                  3. Fork Branch W. of Kenton RD    .....................    14
                  4. Cahoon Branch S of RD 158    .......................    15
                  5. Leipsic River Above Garrisons Lake    ...............   15
                Frederica Quadrangle  ..................................     16
                  1. Milford Neck Ponds E: Pond 2   .....................    16
                  2. Milford Neck Ponds E: Blacks Pond   ................    17
                Greenwood Quadrangle  ...................................    17
                Harrington Quadrangle  .................................     18
                  I. Bright-Haines Glade Forest   .......................    18
                Hickman Quadrangle  ....................................     19
                Kenton Quadrangle   ......................................   19
                  1. Penrose Branch E. of RD 163   ......................    19
                  2. Tappahanna Ditch E. Forest   .......................    19
                  3. Stillmar Property at Blackiston    ..................   20
                  4. NW of Davis Corners  ..............................     21
                  5. Double Ponds   .....................................    21
                  6. Jordan Branch  ....................................     22
                Marydel Quadrangle  ....................................     22
                  1. Woods/Ponds NW` of Chapeltown. .....................    23.
                  2. Culbreth Marsh Ditch Pond    ........................   23
                  3. Sandtown Pond  ....................................     23
                  4. Other Degraded Ponds   .............................    24
                  5. Forest S. of Culbreth Marsh Ditch   ................    24
                  6. Choptank River   ...................................    24
                     A. N. Side of RD 211 Bridge   ......................    24
                     B. S. Side of RD 211 Bridge   ......................    25
                     C. Clioptank Mills  ................................    26
                  7. Iron Mine Prong at Norman Wilder Wildlife Area     ...  27
                Milford Quadrangle  .........................  i ..........  27
                  1. Fishing Branch Marshes   ...........................    27
                  2. Swan Creek at New Wharf/Mispillion River     .........  28
                  3. Brockenbridge Gut Woods   ..........................    29
                  4. Brockenbridge Gut Powerline R-O-W   ................    29
                  5. mispillion River at Beaverdam Branch     .............  29








                Millington Quadrangle   .................................    30
                Mispillion River Quadrangle   ...........................    30
                  1. TNC Preserve at Milford Neck    .....................   30
                     A. Palustrine Forest   .............................    30
                     B. Salt Marshes   ..................................    31
                      C. Peninsular Forest  .............................    32
                Sudlersville Quadrangle   ...............................    32
                Wyoming Quadrangle  ....................................     32
                  1. Tidbury Creek Marshes   ............................    32
                  2. Isaac Branch at Wyoming/Ca-mden   ...................   33
                  3. Hudson Branch  ....................................     33
            DISCUSSION  ................................................     34
            APPENDICES  ................................................     36
              Appendix I. Kent County Survey Sites for 1993     ...........  36
              Appendix II. Rare Species State Ranking Criteria     ........  37








                 Comprehensive Biological and Natural Community Analysis of the Coastal Zone of Kent
                 County, Delaware

                                                        INTRODUCTION


                 The objectives of this project were twofold: (i) to undertake a comprehensive biotic inventory
                 of Kent County (this included a special emphasis on rare species), and (ii) to assess and describe
                 the full array of natural communities found within the coastal zone of Kent County, Delaware.
                 Data collected during this study can then be used in conservation and protection efforts taking
                 place in the county.

                 The land use history of Kent County, has led to a patchwork of severely degraded ecosystems
                 and remnant natural communities. With an ever expanding population base and intensive land
                 use activities, the need to identify those outstanding natural communities and rare species' sites
                 remaining in the county is imperative. The Delaware Natural Heritage Inventory (DNHI) is a
                 statewide program directed at identifying those species and natural communities of concern.
                 DNHI believes that future land use practices should consider the preservation of our most
                 valuable remaining ecosystems. This report summarizes the results of field surveys undertaken
                 in Kent County during 1993 to identify remaining examples of outstanding or intact natural
                 communities and habitats that support rare species. Brief mention will also be made of surveys
                 and significant discoveries prior to 1992.

                 Initially, this project focused on survey work in one type of ecological habitat: the coastal plain
                 pond community (or Delmarva Bay). Delmarva Bays are a significant ecological and geological
                 entity in Delaware. Their origin is uncertain and many, previously studied Delaware ponds,
                 contain an assemblage of rare species not generally found elsewhere in Delaware. A subset of
                 ponds throughout Kent County were selected for inventory. Field surveys of this subset proved
                 that many were highly degraded. In view of that discovery, the inventory work was expanded
                 to include all intact habitats (including ponds) throughout Kent County.

                 This report includes information on locations, and discoveries of Federally listed or candidate
                 species, state rare species, and an assessment of natural communities surveyed throughout the
                 county during 1993. Discoveries made prior to 1993 are briefly mentioned.

                                                             Methods


                 Preliminary work involved reviewing the DNIR database for information from previously
                 conducted field work in Kent County; these data were then used as an aid in selecting sites to
                 field survey during the 1993 field season. In addition, potential inventory sites were also
                 identified by reviewing United States Geological Survey (USGS) topographic maps for Kent
                 County and by reviewing recent color infrared (CIR) and true color aerial photography for the
                 county. A subset of these sites were then field-inspected to determine the degree of habitat
                 quality, the presence of rare species and to determine overall biodiversity. Although several sites
                 were visited on more than one occasion by DNH1 biologists, additional survey work is needed








                (see ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS below) to adequately determine species richness and
                community structure. Data for each site were recorded onto field forms; these data included
                habitat descriptions (including notes on relative quality), community assessment, and presence
                of rare, as well as common, species.

                Assessments and descriptions of natural communities were made by recording species
                composifions at each site, and determirting the dominant spmies present for the tree, shrub, and
                herb strata. In those habitats that were deemed to be of sufficient quality, one or more plots (of
                varying sizes) were established and each species' percent cover value was estimated. Names
                applied to the natural communities described in this report, utilize the scientific names of one
                or more dominant species; after each "technical" natural community name is a more general
                name.


                                                           RESULTS


                Natural Heritage biologists undertook biotic surveys in a variety of habitats throughout Kent
                County (see Kent County map insert; sites are described below). Surveys were undertaken in
                Palustrine and Estuarine wetland habitats which included hardwood swamp forests, Coastal Plain
                ponds, fresh-tidal and non-tidal marshes, brackish and salt marshes and terrestrial hardwood
                forests. Although attempts were made to concentrate survey efforts on those natural communities
                that were intact and of high quality, in fact, many sites surveyed were of very poor quality and
                highly degraded. Natural communities are classified (i.e. named and described) based on their
                dominant vegetation. Zoological and botanical inventory focused on state. rare species (some
                common species are mentioned where deemed appropriate). Brief descriptions of the habitats that
                were surveyed (by USGS Quadrangle) and information on any rare zoologicallbotanical
                discoveries are presented below. In addition, property ownership and protection status are listed
                for each site surveyed, as well as additional survey needs. Apparent threats which might degrade
                the ecological quality of each site are noted where appropriate. State rare species or notable
                species of concern are listed with respective state ranks and are printed in bold within the site
                descriptions. Locational maps for all sites surveyed are provided (Appendix 1). The Delaware
                Natural Heritage Inventory's criteria for state ranking of species are also provided (Appendix
                11). Data collected prior to 1993, are briefly discussed at the end of each quadrangle.

                Survey Sites

                Bennetts PLer-Quadranele

                (1) Bennetts Pier Salt Marshes/Dunes/Beaches (Fig. 1):

                SITE DESCRIUMON: The Bennetts Pier area contains relatively pristine saltmarsh habitat
                bordered by upland forests and agricultural fields to the west and the Delaware Bay to the east.
                The saltmarsh is dominated by saltmarsh cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora). Less common species
                found in these marshes include the following: saltwort (Saliconda Wrginica), salt hay (Spartina
                patens), spike grass (Distichlis spicata) and sea spear (Atriplew patula). In addition, high marsh


                                                                2








                 species such as hightide bush (Iva fivescens) and groundsel bush (Bacchafis halwnifolia) are
                 found scattered throughout the marsh.

                 The Delaware Bayshore is recognized as a globally significant feeding area for migratory
                 shorebirds. These birds congregate along the shorelines to feed on horseshoe crab eggs which
                 have been deposited in the sand. Protection of migratory shorebird feeding areas will lie in
                 protecting existing, pristine, horseshoe crab breeding areas, such as Bennetts Pier beach. Aerial
                 flights conducted annually by the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife, have shown consistent
                 shorebird use of this shoreline during the third week in May. In addition, this area is a
                 significant foraging site for Laughing Gufls, Larus aricil!4 (S3B) and Snowy Egrets, Egrelta
                 thula (SIB).

                 'During the course of inventory work, several Seaside Sparrows, Ammodramus ma          d1imus (S3)
                 were observed within the saltmarsh. It should be noted that a pair of Black Skimmers,
                 Rynchops niger (SIB) were observed here on one occasion. Northern Harrier, Circus cyaneus
                 (SIB, S3N) were observed in these marshes in huge numbers during the migratory months
                 (September/October and March/April). These marshes likely provide important foraging terrain
                 for harriers as they move seasonally through the Delaware Bay coast. However, there is
                 potential that these marshes may provide future foraging and nesting sites for resident harriers.
                 The large expanse of high quality marsh, seems to be ideal habitat for these open country
                 raptors.

                 NATURAL COMMUNMEES: 'Ibis site consists of a mosaic of natural community types, of
                 which the cordgrass saltmarsh is the most abundant. Good to excellent quality.

                 E Sparrina afterniflom Salt Marsh [cordgrass saft marsh], forms an extensive, nearly
                 monospecific community of cordgrass. It is found in the low marsh where the vegetation is
                 inundated on a daily basis by tides. Other species present, but generally as scattered individuals
                 include Salicomia virginica (glasswort) and Atriplex patuld (spearscale). This marsh occurs
                 behind the narrow barrier beach that separates it from the Delaware Bay. Daily tidal exchange
                 occurs through the Brockenbridge Gut inlet to the north, via a main channel that bissects the
                 marsh and is parallel to the shoreline. In addition, numerous mosquito ditches are present; these
                 occur at regular intervals and run perpendicular to the main channel. The cordgrass salt marsh
                 is relatively homogeneous on the north side of RD 122, and more heterogeneous on the south
                 side. The cordgrass occurs in two forms: (1) the taU form which, typically, is found in lower
                 portions of the marsh (e.g. closer to the water, or along sides of tidal ditches), and (2) the short
                 form which dominates the broad marsh between the mosquito ditches.

                 0 Spaylina patens-Distichlis spicata High Marsh [salt hay-spike grass salt marsh; salt
                 meadow marsh]. This community occurs as small inclusions within the cordgrass marsh. In
                 some places, D. spicata may be lacking, or conversely, may be found in pure stands. This
                 community is found more landward or in "higher" areas of the marsh with a greater tidal
                 amplitude. Juncus gerardi (black grass) and the short form of S. altemiflora may occur
                 intermixed in this community.


                                                                  3








                   Bacchafis halamifolia-Iva frutescens Scrub-Shrub Marsh [groundsel tree-high tide bush
                marsh; salt bush-saft meadow marsh]. This community occurs near the upland edge of the salt
                marsh, often forming a distinct narrow or wide zone separating the high marsh from the upland
                vegetation. It also occurs within the Spartina marshes, particularly along the levees of the
                ditches. It also appears to be more abundant on the south side of RD 122. Other species
                frequently encountered in this community include: Distichlis spicata, Hibiscus moscheutos,
                Panicuin virgatwn, Phragmites australis, and Spartina spp.

                Other Natural Communities at this site include:


                        (a) tidal pools/salt pannes (either are permanent bodies of water or are regularly
                exposed. Tidal pools typically lack vascular plants but may contain Ruppia matitima (ditch grass)
                and various macro-algal species. Salt pannes are rather harsh habitats that may accumulate salt
                deposits and are generally devoid of vegetation; occasional individuals of Salicornia spp. and
                Spartina spp. may be present.

                        (b) pine-red maple scrub thickets occur as small, scattered "islands" in the marsh and,
                characteristically, are dense thickets that may contain Acer rubrwn, Pinus taeda, Liquidambar
                styraciflua, Prunus serotina, Toxicodendron radicans, Myfica cerifera, and Rhus copallina,
                among others.

                0 Coastal Dunes [sand dunes] occur as a very narrow strip between the salt marshes and the
                beaches along the Delaware Bay. Species found in these dunes include the following: Ammophila
                breviligulata (beach grass), Solidago sempervirens (seaside goldenrod), Spartina patens (salt
                hay), Phragmites australis (common reed), C@perus spp. (galingale), and Panicwn virgatunt
                (switch-grass). Cakile edentulata (sea-rocket), Euphorbia polygonifiblia (seaside spurge), and
                Salsola kali (saltwort) may be found in the foredunes, (or upper beach zone).

                0 Bay Beaches at this site are comprised of coarse sands and peebles and are generally devoid
                of vegetation. This beach supports a diversity of invertebrates, is a prime spawning site for the
                horseshoe crab, and is an important feeding site for a number of migratory shorbirds (e.g. ruddy
                turnstones, dunlins, sanderlings, and semi-palmated sandpipers).

                ONVNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection.

                THREATS: Shoreline development.

                ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: A breeding bird inventory should be undertaken, and
                efforts should be made to determine the presence of any rare Lepodopteran species utilizing this
                system.

                (2) Big Stone Beach (Fig. 2):

                SITE DESCRIPTION: South of the town of Big Stone Beach, occurs a long narrow stretch of


                                                                4








                Delaware Bay beachfront. Like Bennetts Pier, this is an important horseshoe crab spawning site,
                and in turn attracts thousands of shorebirds during the peak period of horseshoe crab spawning.
                Species observed feeding here include: laughing Gull, Larus atriciffa (S3B); Common Tern,
                Sterna hirundo (S1B, S3N); Dunlin, Calidris alpina (S3T); Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria
                interpres (M); and Red Knot, Calidtis canutus (S31). Annual aerial surveys conducted by
                the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife, consistently show high use by ruddy turnstones and
                red knots during the third week in May.

                The foredunes contain scattered individuals of sea-rocket (Cakile edentula), while the narrow
                dunes immediately adjacent are dominated by beach grass (Ammophila breviligulata) and seaside
                goldenrod (Solidago sempertdrens). A scrub-shrub thicket is situated between the dunes and an
                extensive Sparrina alterniflora dominated saltmarsh.

                NATURAL COMMUNITIES: The habitats present at this site are, in essence, an extension of
                those located at Bennetts Pier (Fig. 1). Moderate quality.

                a Coastal Dunes [sand dunes]. See description for Bennetts Pier (above).

                N Bay Beaches. See description for Bennetts Pier (above).

                OWNERSHIEP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection.

                TEMEATS: Shoreline development.

                ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: This stretch of beach should be inventoried in June for the
                presence of breeding birds. Emphasis should be on the beachfront area and adjacent wetlands
                south of the town of Big Stone Beach. Detailed inventories also need to be conducted for rare
                plants, particularly in the dune areas.

                PREVIOUS SURVEY RESULTS: Only a limited amount of survey work was done previously,
                and only one state species of special concern had been identified: Joorls sedge, Carex joorff
                (S2). Quantified data on natural communities for Bennetts Pier Quadrangle is also lacking. A
                small forested area was previously surveyed and its natural community characterized: a Quercus
                spp.-Pinus taedalLeucothoe racemosa Floodplain Forest [mixed oak-pine/fefterbush forest].

                Bombay Hook Qu

                (1) Bombgy Hook National Wildlife Refuee ("Finis Woods") (Fig. 3):

                SITE DESCRIPTION: In the Piedmont Physiographic province of Delaware, moist, loamy soils
                high in nutrients and organic matter are typically found. These "rich woods" often support a
                characteristic flora, typically found only on the Piedmont. Delaware's Coastal Plain soils have
                a high percentage of sand and are not as rich in organic matter as soils found in the Piedmont.
                As a result, a flora quite different from the Piedmont is found. However, rich woods areas can


                                                               5








                    also be infrequently found on the Coastal Plain. These are described here as being Coastal Plain
                    "rich wood pockets." When occurring in dense stands, may-apple (Podophyllwn peltatum)
                    appears to be a good indicator of this habitat type. Tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), can
                    also be an indicator of Coastal Plain rich woods, but to a lesser extent than may-apple. An
                    excellent example of this community type has been identified in the "Finis Woods" area at
                    Bombay Hook.

                    Finis Woods is the name given to an area of fragmented woodlands which is dissected by refuge
                    roads, crop lands, impoundments and wetlands. An association of mixed hardwoods defines the
                    community structure of Finis Woods, with seral stages ranging from second growth to old
                    growth.

                    The rare yellow passion-flower, Passiflora lutea (SI) was discovered within these woodS. Only
                    two other sites for this species are known in Delaware. The following plant species were also
                    recorded in the Finis Woods area of Bombay Hook NWR. State ranks are given if species is of
                    special state concern, and comments are also given from Robert Tatnall's 1946 Flora of
                    Delaware and the Eastern Shore:


                                                         State
                    Scientific Name                      Rank      Comments


                    Anemonella thalictroides                       (infrequent on the Coastal Plain)
                    Carex retroflexa                     S2        (infrequent in woods of the Piedmont)
                    Omicifuga racemosa                             (rare on the Coastal Plain)
                    Orcaea quadrisulcata                           (common on the Piedmont, less frequent on the Coastal Plain)
                    Oaytonia virginica                             (common in the northern portion of the state, rare southward)
                    Collinsonia canadensis                         (common in the Piedmont, local on the Coastal Plain)
                    Cryptotaenia canadensis                        (rare on the Coastal Plain)
                    Dentaria laciniata                             (common in New Castle Co., rare southward)
                    "earis pectabilis                    S3        (only two collections on the Coastal Plain)
                    Geranium maculatum                             (common in New Castle Co., rare further south)
                    Lysimachia ciliata                             (frequent in northern New Castle CO, rare southward)
                    Osmund4 claytoniana                  S3        (frequent in the Piedmont, rare on the CoasW Plain)
                    Oxalis violacea                      S3        (infrequent on the Coastal Plain)
                    Phegopteris hexagonoptera                      (frequent in the Piedmont, less common on the Coastal Plain)
                    Podophyflum peltatum                           (common on the Piedmont, infrequent southward)
                    Polystichum acrostichoides                     (common in the northern portion, rarer southward)
                    Sanguinaria canadensis                         (infrequent to rare on the Coastal Plain)
                    Scutellaria eHiptica                 S3        (frequent in New Castle Co., apparently rare farther south)
                    Uvularia perfoliata                            (common on the Piedmont, becoming rare southward)
                    VwIa brWoniana                       S3


                    The potential remains for additional rare species to be located at Finis Woods.

                    NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Excellent quality, particularly considering the Piedmont-like
                    characteristics of the poplar-oak/may apple community.

                        Liriodendron tulipifera-Quercus spp.lftdophyllum peltatum Mesic Forest [tulip poplar-

                                                                                6








                mixed oak mesic forest]. A "rich woods" characterized by an assemblage of species more
                commonly found on the Piedmont. Tulip poplar is the dominant canopy species, with lesser
                amounts of oaks (Q. alba, Q. falcata, Q. prinus, Q. rubra). Fagus grandifolia (beech), and
                Carya spp. (hickories) are also present. The shrub layer is relatively sparse, while the
                herbaceous layer is quite diverse and is dominated by Podophyllum peltatum (may-apple).

                E Quercus pheUoslClethra alnifolia Swamp Forest [willow oak/sweet pepperbush swamp)
                occurs as small inclusions, or at the edge of the tulip poplar-mixed oak mesic forest; it is located
                in low swamp areas adjacent to or in the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge. In addition
                to the willow oak and the sweet pepperbush, other common species include Q. palustris, Q.
                falcata, Rhododendron Wscosum, Viburnum dentatum var, lucidum, Acer rubnon, Liquidwnbar
                styraciflua, Arisaema triphyllum, Mitchella repens, Carex spp., and 7helypteris palustris.

                OWNERSIMPROTECTION STATUS: Federal (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)/protected.

                PREVIOUS SURVEY RESULTS: Very limited, although the Federally Endangered (LE) Bald
                Eagle, Haliaeetus kucocephalus (SIB), and the green tree frog, Hyla cinerea (S3) were
                previously discovered in or near Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge.

                Burrsville Quadrangle

                (1) White Marsh Branch Woods (Mg. 4):

                SITE DESCREMON: A relatively poor quality, and narrow, hardwood swamp forest
                dominated by red maple (Acer rubnon). The understory consists of such widespread species as
                lizard's tail (Saururus cernuus), false nettle (Boehmeria cylindrica), jewel weed (Impatiens
                capensis), viburnum (Viburnum recognitum), elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) and buttonbush
                @Cephalanthus occidentalis). Alsol weedy species such as japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera
                Japonica), trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans), poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) and
                pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) are abundant. There is very little upland forested buffer
                adjacent to this habitat. No rare species were observed in this wetland, although several rare
                sedges; false hop sedge, Carex lapuliformis (Sl); and N11tcheWs sedge, Carex mitchefflana
                (Sl) were previously discovered in the adjacent roadside ditch.

                NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Poor quality.

                0 Acer rubrum Swamp Forest [red maple swamp]. See Site Description (above). Poor quality
                natural community.

                OWNERSHIEP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/cuffently no protection.

                ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: No zoological inventories were undertaken here. There
                is some potential for rare amphibians to occur at this site.



                                                                  7









                   PREVIOUS SURVEY RESULTS: Very limited. Several state rare species were previously
                   identified from the Burrsville Quadrangle: e.g., Barratt's sedge, Carex barrattii (S3); large
                   sedge, C. gigantea (S3); false hop sedge, C. 1upuliformis (S1); Mitchell's sedge, C.
                   michelliana (S1); Elliott's gentian, Gentiana catesbaei (2); humped bladderwort, Utricularia
                   gibba (S2); and the mud sunfish, Acantharchus pomods (S2).

                   Dover Quadrangle

                   (1) Mudstone Branch (Fig. 5):

                   Site A. East of Kenton Rd.:


                   SUE DESCRIPTION: This branch consists of a relatively pristine stream (including natural
                   beaver ponds) with a sandy bottom, surrounded by hardwood upland forested slopes (the
                   terrestrial forest on the north side consists of old growth hardwoods nearly 150 years old).
                   Several extensive surveys were undertaken at this site in 1991; the following species, including
                   several rare species, were observed at that time:


                   PARTIAL SPECIES LIST FOR THE MUDSTONE BRANCH OLD GROWTH FOREST AND WETLAND
                   NATURAL COMMUNITIES


                   RARE PLANT SPECIES PRESENT:
                   (see attached ranking definitions)

                   0uercus bicolor                                Swamp white oak                     S3
                   Ranunculus ambigens*                         Water plantain                      S1
                                                                    spearwort (buttercup)
                   Scutellaria elliptica                          Hairy skullcap                      S3

                   * was ranked SH previous to discovery at this site; last collected in 1909


                   Upland Plant Specie :
				
                   Acer rubrum                                    Red maple
                   Amelanchier arborea                            Service berry
                   Aralia nudicaulis                              Wild sarsaparilla
                   Asplenium platyneuron                          Ebony spleenwort
                   Aureolaria virginica                           Downy false foxglove
                   Botrychium Virginiana                          Rattlesnake fern
                   Campsis radicans                               Trumpet creeper
                   Carex laxiculmis                               A sedge
                   Carex sp.                                      A sedge
                   Carpinus carolinianus                          Hornbeam
                   Carya glabra                                   Pignut hickory
                   Castanea dentata                               American chestnut
                   Chimaphila maculata                            Wintergreen
                   Circaea quadrisulcata                          Enchanter's nightshade
                   Cornus florida                                 Flowering dogwood
                   Cypripedium acaule                             Pink ladie's slipper



                                                                            8
 









                     Dioscorea villosa                                Wild yam
                     Epifagus virginiana                              Beech drops
                     Euonymus americanus                              Burning/strawberry bush
                     Fagus grandifolia                                American beech
                     Galium circaezans                                Bedstraw
                     Goodyera pubescens                               Rattlesnake plantain
                     Rex opaca                                        American holly
                     Lindera benzoin                                  Spicebush
                     Liquidamber styraciflua                          Sweet gum
                     Liriodendron tulipifera                          Tulip poplar
                     Lonicera japonica                                Honeysuckle
                     Lycopodium digitatum                             Running pine
                     Lycopodium lucidulum                             Shinning clubmoss
                     Lycopodium obscurum                              Ground pine
                     Medeola virginiana                               Cucumber root
                     Mitchella repens                                 Partridge berry
                     Parthenocissus quinquefolius                     Virginia creeper
                     Pinus taeda                                      Loblolly pine
                     Pinus virginiana                                 Virginia pine
                     Podophyllum peltatum                             May apple
                     Polygonatum biflorum                             Solomon's seal
                     Prunus serotina                                  Wild black cherry
                     Quercus alba                                     White oak
                     Quercus falcata                                  S. red oak
                     Quercus michauxii                                Swamp chestnut oak
                     Quercus rubra                                    Red oak
                     Quercus stellata                                 Post oak
                     Ranunculus sp.                                   Buttercup
                     Sassafras albidum                                Sassafras
                     Scutellaria elliptica                            Hairy skullcap
                     Smilacina racemosa                               False solomon's seal
                     Smilax rotundifolia                              Greenbrier
                     Tipularia discolor                               Cranefly orchid
                     Vaccinium corymbosum                             Highbush blueberry
                     Vaccinium spp.                                   Blueberries
                     Viburnum acerifolium                             Maple-leaf arrow wood
                     Viburnum recognition                             Arrow wood
                     Viola sp.                                        Violet
                     Woodwardia areolata                              Netted chain-fern


                     WETLAND SPECIES:


                     Acer rubrum                                      Red maple
                     Alisma subcordatum                               Water plantain
                     Apios americana                                  Wild bean
                     Arisaema triphyllum                              Jack-in-the-pulpit
                     Athyrium filix-femina                            Lady fern
                     Betula nigra                                     River birch
                     Boehmeria cylindrica                             False neetle
                     Callitriche heterophylla                         Water starwort
                     Carex crinita                                    A sedge
                     Carex debilis                                    A sedge
                     Carex intumescens                                A sedge


                                                                               9
 










                     Carex stricta                                     A sedge
                     Clethra alnifolia                                 Sweet pepperbush
                     Cornus amomium                                    Silky dogwood
                     Cuscuta cf. gronovii                              Dodder
                     Dioscorea villosa                                 Wild yam
                     Fraxinus pensylvanica                             Green ash
                     Geum sp.                                          Avens
                     Glyceria septentrionalis                          A manna grass
                     Gratiola virginiana                               Hedge hyssop
                     Ilex glabra                                       Inkberry
                     Ilex laevigata                                    Smooth winterberry
                     Impatiens capensis                                Jewelweed
                     Iris sp.                                          Blue flag
                     Lemna sp.                                         Duckweed
                     Leersia oryzoides                                 Rice cut-grass
                     Leucothoe racemosa                                Fetter bush
                     Lindernia dubia                                   Lindernia
                     Liquidamber styraciflua                           Sweet gum
                     Ludwigia palustris                                Marsh purslane
                     Lycopus sp.                                       Water horehound
                     Mikania scandens                                  Climbing hempweed
                     Onoclea sensibilis                                Sensitive fern
                     Osmunda regalis                                   Royal fern
                     Osmunda cinnamomea                                Cinnamon fern
                     Peltandra virginica                               Arrow arum
                     Polygonum hydropiperoides                         Water smartweed
                     Polygonum arifoliun                               Tear thumb
                     Polystichum acrostichoides                        Christmas fern
                     Pontedaria cordata                                Pickerelweed
                     Potamogeton sp.                                   Pondweed
                     Quercus bicolor                                   Swamp white oak
                     Quercus phellos                                   Willow oak
                     Ranunculus ambigens                               Water plantain spearwort
                     Rubus sp.                                         Blackberry
                     Salix nigra                                       Black willow
                     Saururus cernuus                                  Lizard's tail
                     Sium suave                                        Water parsnip
                     Smilax rotundifolia                               Greenbrier
                     Symplocarpus foetidus                             Skunk cabbage
                     Thelypteris palusris                              Marsh fern
                     Urtica sp.                                        Stinging nettle
                     Viburnun recognitun                               Arrow wood
                     Woodwardia areolata                               Netted chain-fern
                     Woodwardia virinica                               Virginia chain-fern

                     Amphibians and Reptiles* (with State Ranks)

                     Eastern Tiger Salamander                        S2
                     Eastern King Snake                              S2
                     Green Treefrog                                  S3
                     Spotted Turtle                                  S3
                     Wood Frog                                       S4
                     Redback Salamander                              S5



                                                                                  10









                   Northern Cricket Frog                        S5
                   Northern Spring Peeper                       S5
                   Bullfrog                                     S5
                   Green Frog                                   S5
                   Eastern Box Turtle                           S5
                   Five-lined Skink                             S5
                   Northern Black Racer                         S5
                   Eastern Garter Snake                         S5


                   * Additional surveys may reveal more species; weather conditions, time of day, and seasons of the year affect survey
                   results.


                   Birds (rare species present)

                   Great Blue Heron                             S2B
                   Cooper's Hawk                                SlB
                   Broad-winged Hawk                            S2B
                   Barred Owl                                   S3
                   Black-billed Cuckoo                          S2B
                   Pileated Woodpecker                          S3 (but rare in Kent CO.)
                   White-breasted Nuthatch                      S2B


                   AirLs (other species observed; taxonomic order; most probably breeding)

                   American Black Duck                          American Crow
                   Mallard                                      Fish Crow
                   Wood Duck                                    Bluejay
                   Northern Bobwhite                            Carolina Chickadee
                   Red-Tailed Hawk                              House Wren
                   Turkey Vulture                               Carolina Wren
                   Black Vulture                                Gray Catbird
                   Great Horned Owl                             American Robin
                   Screech Owl                                  Veery
                   Yellow-billed Cuckoo                         Wood Thrush
                   Whip-poor-will                               Cedar Waxwing
                   Belted Kingfisher                            Red-eyed Vireo
                   Northern Flicker                             Black and White Warbler
                   Hairy Woodpecker                             Common Yellowthroat
                   Downy Woodpecker                             Louisiana Waterthrush
                   Eastern Kingbird                             Red-winged Blackbird
                   Great-crested Flycatcher                     Brown-headed Catbird
                   Eastern Phoebee                              Common Grackle
                   Eastern Pewee                                Northern Oriole
                   Acadian Flycatcher                           Orchard Oriole
                   Scarlet Tanager
                   Northern Cardinal
                   Purple Finch
                   American Goldfinch
                   Rose-breasted Grosbeak
                   Rufous-sided Towhee
                   White-throated Sparrow

                   n.b. many species of warblers were present, but due to time constraints these were not identified to species; future field









                  work should be conducted during the summer months, and especially during the fall and spring migrations (these wetlands
                  and upland forest provide one of the best stopover points for migratory birds in central Delaware)

                  NATURAL C0AIMUNffM: Excellent quality old growth forest and wetlands.

                  0 Fagus gmndifolia-Lbiodendron tulipifem-Liquidambar stymciflua Mesic Forest [beech-
                  poplar-sweet gum Forest]. An excellent 'old growth' forest occurs along the Mudstone Branch.
                  The canopy and sub-canopy trees consist of primarily beech-poplar-sweet gum; the oldest
                  measure more than 100' in height and are nearly 150 years old. This is one of the finest known
                  examples of mature upland forest on Delaware's Coastal Plain.

                  The surrounding upland communities include several extensive low-lying Clethra-dominated
                  thickets. In addition, portions of the site contain younger, recently cut-over woods. The natural
                  communities in the wetlands of Mudstone Branch were not decribed.


                  OWNERSHIENFROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection; proposed for
                  development.

                         ATS: The majority of the upland portion of this site is being planned for development
                  (though plans appear to be currently on-hold). If development takes place as planned, and most
                  of the upland forest is removed, there could be extreme consequences to the quality of the
                  adjacent wetlands and waters of the Mudstone Branch, not to mention a loss of a significant old
                  growth forest tract.

                  ADDMONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Additional biotic surveys are needed at this site,
                  particularly on the south side of the creek and towards its confluence with Fork Branch. A
                  breeding bird survey should be conducted in May and June to determine the presence of any
                  species of special concern in the upland forested area, as well. as the wetland portions of this
                  tributary.   Potential exists for the occurrence of additional state rarities, due to the unique
                  nature of these mature forests.


                  Site B. Near confluence with Fork Branch:


                  The Palustrine floodplain forest on the north side of the Mudstone Branch was surveyed on 2
                  June 1993 (8 acres of this property has been acquired by the State's Land Protection Office).
                  The swamp forest is a red maple-green ash dominated community with a relatively diverse
                  understory. Species composition of the understory and the presence of weedy species are
                  indicative of historic disturbance. A new subdivision is being constructed presently on the north
                  side; several stormwater drains have been installed on the upper slopes above this wetland (See
                  THREATS below).

                  Common species of the understory include: poison-ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), trumpet-
                  creeper (Campsis radicans), virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolius), greenbriar (Smilax
                  rotundifolia), lizard's tail (Saururus cemuus), false nettle (Boehmefia cylindrica), jewel-weed


                                                                    12








                 (Impatiens capensis), sedges (Carex lurida, C. crinita, and C. stipata), waterparsnip (Sium.
                 suave), whitegrass (Leersia virginica), viburnum (Viburnwn dentatwn var. lucidum), swamp
                 mallow (Hibiscus moscheutos [near stream]), arrowhead (Sagittafia latifolia), hempweed
                 (Mikania scandens), reed grass (Calamagrostis sp.), fetter bush (Itea virginica), sweet
                 pepperbush (Clethra alnifolia), madder (Galiwn triflonan), and smartweed (Polygonwn
                 afifolium), to name a few.

                 A species of dragonfly, Hagenius brevistylus (Sl), was discovered here on 15 May 1993. This
                 represents a new Kent County record. This species is dependent on pristine streams with high
                 water quality and a sandy substrate (a recent study of stream quality throughout Delaware,
                 performed by DNREC, showed that the Mudstone has one of the highest water qualities of any
                 stream sampled). Great Blue Herons, Ardea herodias (S2B), were observed using the marshy
                 areas of this tributary for feeding and resting. There is potential that these birds are nesting in
                 the swampy regions of this tributary. In addition, a Broad-winged Hawk, Buteo Patypterus
                 (S2) nest was discovered here in 1992, as well as the presence of a Barred Owl, Strix varia
                 (S3) in 1993.

                 NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Moderate quality.

                 a Acer rubrum-Fraxinus pensylvanica Swamp Forest (red maple-ash swamp]. A relatively
                 diverse, but also disturbed, swamp forest along the Fork Branch dominated by maple and ash.

                 OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Most of this site is privately owned, although the
                 State of Delaware owns an eight acre tract here/pardal protection, though adjacent development
                 may have long-term impact to wetlands quality.

                 11111EATS: Stormwater run-off may seriously impact natural communities and water quality as
                 run-off from storms is directed into wetland.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Additional biotic surveys are needed at this site, on the
                 south side of the creek and towards the Fork Branch confluence. A breeding bird survey should
                 be conducted in May and June to determine the presence of any species of special concern.
                 Potential exists for the occurrence of state rarities.

                 (2) Forest West of Cheswold (Fig. 6):

                 SITE DESCRIPTION: This palustrine, mixed second growth hardwood forest (nearing
                 maturity) contains a single Coastal Plain pond (Category I wetland) of relatively good quality.
                 The Palustrine forest is diverse with the following species common: white oak (Quercus alba),
                 spanish oak (Quercus falcata), swamp oak (Quercus michauxii), american beech (Fagus
                 grandifolia), tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), sweet gum (Liquidwnbar styraciflua), black
                 gum (Nyssa sylvatica), hickory (Carya sp.), sweet bay (Magnolia virginiana), american holly
                 (11ex opaca), ironwood (Carpinus caroliniana), sweet pepperbush (Clethra alnifolia), blueberry
                 (Vaccinium corymbosum), spicebush (Lindera benzoin), strawberry bush (Euonymus ameficanus),


                                                                 13








                 japanese honeysuckle (Lonicerajaponica), false solomon's seal (Smilacina racemosa), swamp
                 lily (Lilium superbum), partridge berry (Mitchella repens), skunk cabbage (Symplocarpus
                 foetidus), spotted wintergreen (Chimaphila maculata), crane-fly orchid (7-1pularia discolor), may-
                 apple (Podophylum peltatum), sedges (Carex spp.), blue swamp violet (Wola cucullata), New
                 York fern (77zelypteris noveboracensis) and club mosses (Lycopodium lucidulum, L. obscunan,
                 and L. digitatwn).

                 OWNERSHIEP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/cuffently no protection.

                 ADDMONAL SURVEY NEEDS: This entire site needs additional inventory to determine the
                 presence of any rare plants or animals. These elements should be searched for in the forested
                 area, as well as in the Coastal Plain pond. Zoological inventory work should be conducted in
                 April for amphibians and dragonflies, and in June for breeding birds and dragonflies.

                 NATURAL COMMUNITIEES: Fairly good quality.

                 a Quercus pheUos-Fagus grandifolla-Liriodendron tulipifera Mesic-Wet Forest [willow oak-
                 beech-poplar forest]. See Site Description (above) for details.

                 0 Cephalanthus occidentalis Coastal Plain Pond [button bush pond]. See Site Description
                 (above) for details.

                 (3) Fork Branch West of Kenton Road (Fig. 7):

                 SITE DESCRIMON: Towards the upper reaches of the Fork Branch there occurs extensive,
                 relatively high quality palustrine and terrestrial forests. The swamp forest is dominated by red
                 maple (Acer rubnan), with lesser numbers of ash (Fraxinus pensylvanica). It is disturbed near
                 Kenton Road and on the north side of the creek where houses have been built very near its edge.
                 The understory is diverse with such species as the following: skunk cabbage (Symplocarpus
                 foetidus), jack-in-the-pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum), Lindera benzoin, Impatiens capensis,
                 cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea), Senecio aurea, Viola sp., Saururus cernuus, Viburnum
                 dentatum var. lucidum, Carex spp. (stipata, stricta), royal fern (Osmunda regalis), netted chain
                 fern (Woodwardia areolata), spotted cowbane (Cicuta maculata), Clethra alnifolia, arrow-arum
                 (Peltandra virginica), Swnbucus canadensis and Aronia arbutifolia.

                 The terrestrial forest consists of an excellent quality american beech (Fagus grandifolia) and
                 tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera)-dominated mature forest. The understory is relatively
                 sparse but is dominated by heaths: e.g., huckleberry (Gaylussacia firondosa), wild azalea
                 (Rhododendron periclymenoides), and low bush blueberry (Vaccinium cf. vacillans). Several
                 individuals of chinquapin (Castanea pumila) were observed in this forest community.

                 NATURAL COMNIUNITEES: Moderately good to high quality forests.

                   Acer rubrum-Fraxinus pensylvanica Swamp Forest [red maple-green ash swamp]. See Site

                                                                 14








                 Description (above) for details.

                 0 Fagus gmndifolia-Liriodendron tulipifera Mesic Forest [beech-tulip poplar forest]. See Site
                 Description (above) for details.

                 OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/cuffently no protection.

                 THREATS: Development of uplands.

                 ADDMONAL SURVEY NEEDS: This site needs zoological inventory work to determine the
                 presence of species of special concern in the wetlands and adjacent uplands. Emphasis should
                 be given to breeding birds in late May or June, and amphibians in early spring (April).

                 (4) Cahoon Branch S. of RD 158 (Fig. 8):

                 SIM DESCRMION: This creek, with its associated floodplain forest and nearby upland
                 forest, was only briefly surveyed. The stream has been ditched in the past but is beginning to
                 revert back to a more natural system. The adjacent upland forest on the east side is an important
                 buffer to this stream and ultimately may be significant in maintaining the water quality of Silver
                 Lake downstream. The forest, although not containing rare species, does contain numerous
                 young american chestnuts (Castanea dentata; a species on the State's Watch List).

                 NATURAL COMMUNITIES: More detailed surveys are required to accurately describe and
                 characterize the habitats at this site.

                 OWNERSHIEP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/cuffently no protection.

                    REATS: Future development threatens the upland forests. Reditching of the stream would
                 negatively impact this system.

                 ADDMONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Further zoological inventory work is needed. Emphasis
                 should be on amphibians and reptiles within the wetland corridor.

                 (5) Leipsic River Above Garrisons Lake (Flig. 9):

                 SITE DESCRUMON: A beaver-impounded stream occurs above Garrisons Lake consisting
                 of extensive colonies of arrow-arum (Peltandra -Wrginica), and water primrose (LudvWgia
                 peploides). Tussock sedge (Carem stricta) is frequent in this beaver pond. The upland forests
                 have been cleared virtually to the edge of the wetland (only a narrow strip of forest borders the
                 creek).

                 NATURAL COND4UNITIES: Not characterized. The palustrine forest upstream from the
                 beaver pond is quite narrow and highly disturbed; there is very little adjacent upland forest
                 buffer to this wetland.



                                                                15








                 OWNERSHIENFROTECTION STATUS: Privatelcurrently no protection.

                 THREATS: With croplands to the edge of the wetlands, water quality of the stream is              in
                 serious jeopardy.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Additional botanical and zoological inventofy work are
                 needed at this site.


                 PREVIOUS SURVEY RESULTS: Surveys along the Mudsone Branch (see Site 1A above)
                 were undertaken in 1991 and 1992. Otherwise, inventory work on the Dover Quad has been
                 limited. Significant previous discoveries include the American lotus, Nelumbo lutea (SI) and
                 the mud sunfish, Acantharchus pomolis (S2), along the St. Jones River.

                 Frederica- Quadrapy_le

                 (1) Milford Neck Ponds East; Pond 2 (Fig. 10, Site A):

                 SITE DESCRIPTION: This Coastal Plain pond has an open canopy (i.e. it is herbaceous
                 dominated) and is surrounded by mature forest. A road cuts along its eastern side.

                 On 19 April, high water (up to 3 feet in depth) was present. Several neotropical migrant and
                 resident bird species (e.g. Yellow-throated Warbler, Dendroica dominica (M); Black and
                 White Warbler, Mniotilta vafia; Palm Warbler, Dendroica palmarum; Wood Thrush, Hylocichla
                 mustelina; Hermit Thrush, Cathanis guuatus; Hairy Woodpecker, Picoides W116sus; Red-bellied
                 Woodpecker, Melanerpes carolinus; Downy Woodpecker, Picoides pubescens; Yellow-rumped
                 Warbler, Dendroica coronata; and Red-winged Blackbird, Ageldius phoeniceus) were observed
                 utilizing the mature forested habitat immediately surrounding this pond. In addition, three
                 common dragonflies were collected at this site (Pachydiplax longipennis, Sympetnan rubicindulm
                 (or intemum), and Lestes rectangulafis).

                 Two Little Blue Heron, Egrelta caerulea (SIB) individuals, were observed at this site on two
                 different occasions. This indicates the possibility that this pond is either a nesting site (though
                 no nests were observed) for this species, or an important feeding area.

                 NATURAL COND4UNITI[ES: Moderate quality, but pond seems to be experiencing a possible
                 overload of nutrients.

                 0 Cephalanthus occidentatis/MixedHerbaceous CoastalPlain Pond [buttonbush/mixedherbs
                 pond]. A highly diverse, seasonally flooded pond with a nearly 100% vegetated surface. Species
                 in abundance here include the following: Cephalanthus, Polygonum punctatum, Ludwigia
                 sphaerocarpon, Bidens laevis, B. frondosa, Echinochloa walteri, Proserpinaca pecti=a, and
                 Mynchospora macrostachya.

                 OWNERSHIENFROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection.


                                                                 16








                I RRATS: Loss of the mature woodlands would not only negatively impact these forests, but
                may degrade the quality of this pond as a whole.

                ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Additional botanical and community work needs to be
                conducted. Little Blue Herons should be looked for in the future, and if found, the importance
                of this pond for these birds should be determined.

                (2) Milford Neck Ponds East., Black's Pon (Fig. 10, Site B):

                SITE DESCRUMON: This Coastal Plain pond contains a large colony of the pest, common
                reed, Phragmites australis around its perimeter. Immediatedly to the interior of the reed, is a
                large colony of cattail, 7ypha angustifolia, which nearly encircles the pond. At the time of
                survey, the pond was dry and the large central portion consisted entirely of bare cracked soil.
                Much of the upland woods surrounding this pond has been recently logged, however, the large
                sedge, Carex gigantea (0), was discovered here (immediately adjacent to pond opening). Other
                rare species, previously identified from this pond include: squarestent spikerush, Eleocharis
                quadrangulata (S3), featherfofl, Holtonia inji4ta (S2), cutleaf water-milfoil, Myriophyllum
                pinnatum (S2), and humped bladderwort, Utricularia gibba (S2).

                NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Fair quality pond.

                a Nymphaea odonita-Utticularia gibba Coastal Plain Pond [water lily-bladderwort pondr.
                A Coastal Plain -Pond that consists of an abundance of water lily and bladderwort as observed
                during 1991 surveys. Surveys in 1993 were too late in the season, as pond had drawn-down and
                was nearly devoid of vegetation.

                 based on 1991 surveys; pond should be re-visited in 1994.

                OWNERSHIENFROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no Protection.

                THREATS: Phragmites expansion, agricultural run-off (eutrophication).

                PREVIOUS SURVEY RESULTS: Additional surveys were undertaken along the St. Jones
                River, at Dover Air Force Base, and in other coastal plain ponds, and the following species
                of special concern were discovered: several sedges, Carex jooyV (S2); C. typhina (SI);
                spikerushes, Eleochatis metanocarpa (S2); E. quadrangulata (S3); white boneset, Eupatoyium
                album (S2); featherfoil, Hottonia inflata (S2); bald eagle, HaUaeetus leucocephalus (SIB,
                LE); water-milfoil, Myriophyllumpinnatum (S2); yellow passion-flower, Passijlora lutea (SI);
                green frog-fruit, Phyla lanceolata (Sl); carorm petunia Ruellia caroliniensis (SI); and
                several bladderworts, Uticularia gibba (S2); and U. radiata (S2).

                Greenwood!QuadrLn le
                                      ,L_

                No biotic surveys were undertaken on this quadrangle during 1993. In addition, prior surveys


                                                              17








                are also lacking.

                ADDMONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Although nearly all of the streams are ditched, several
                thousand acres of forested habitat exists in the Kent County portion of the Greenwood
                Quadrangle. Surveys are badly needed throughout this quadrangle.

                Harrinp-ton!Quadran le

                (1) Bright-Haines Glade Branch Forest (Fig. 11):

                SITE DESCRIPTION: Southwest of Harrington occurs one of the largest contiguous forested
                areas in Kent County. Bright-Haines Glade Branch (BHGB) cuts through the center of this
                forest. BHGB has been ditched, but appears to be slowly recovering vegetatively. This site
                maintains a large core area of relatively pristine forest interior (> 100 M from an edge).
                Although greenbriar (Smilax spp.) is thick in some areas, this site appears to have been
                minimally impacted by forest fragmentation effects, providing ideal habitat for many forest
                interior-dwelling birds.

                Sixteen neotropical bird species were found at this site during the nesting season. Of interest was
                the apparent high numbers of Worm-eating Warblers, Hebnitheros vermivorus (M). Three
                different territories were located in the southern portion of this site. In addition, a pair of
                Meated Woodpeckers, Dryocopus pileatus (0), were observed here. These woodpeckers
                require large tracts of mature forests, indicating that additional species of concern which require
                contiguous mature forest, have the potential of being discovered. A Great Blue Heron, Ardea
                hemdias (S213), was also observed foraging in BHGB.

                NATURAL COMNIUNITIES: Not characterized.


                OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection.

                THREATS: A unique aspect of this forest is the large unbroken area. Any fragmentation win
                degrade this site as a current potential reservoir for forest interior species.

                ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Botanical and natural community inventories are needed
                at this site. Additional inventory for avain species of concern should focus on detection of forest
                interior species (accipiters, buteos, owls and warblers). This site also warrants amphibian and
                reptile herpetological inventory work, especially within BHGB. Use of BHGB by herons should
                also be investigated.

                PREVIOUS SURVEY RESULTS: Several surveys prior to 1993 resulted in the discoveries
                of the following species of special concern: several sedges, Carex bannW (S3); C. collinsii
                (S3); Joor's sedge, C. joorii (S2); and Scleria reficulahs (S2); swamp pink, Helonias bullata
                (S3, LT); sheep-laurel, Kalmia angusdfolia (S2); blue lupine, Lupinus perennis (Sl); and
                coast violet, Viola brittoniana (S2). The bald eagle was observed along the MurderkiU River,

                                                                 18








                and Helonias was discovered at two sites; along the Tantrough Branch and at Killens Pond State
                Park. The rare lupine also was found at KMens Pond State Park, the only known Kent County
                site for this legume.

                Hickman Quadrangjle

                No biotic surveys were undertaken on this quadrangle during 1993. In addition, prior surveys
                are also lacking.

                ADDMONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Like the Greenwood Quadrangle extensive ditching occurs
                on the Hickman Quadrangle (the Marshyhope has been badly channelized). Similarily, several
                thousand acres of forested habitat exists on this quadrangle and surveys are badly needed
                throughout.

                KentonQuadranpIg

                (1) Penrose Branch E. of RD 163 (Fig. 12):

                This floodplain forest and the associated second growth upland forest, were briefly surveyed.
                Ash (Fraxinus pensylvanica) is the dominant overstory tree. Red maple (Acer rubnon) is
                abundant in the understory. Other co-occurring understory species include Vibumum dentatwn
                var. lucidum, Symplocarpus foetidus, Smilax rotundifolia, Impatiens capensis, Boehmeria
                cylindfica, Lonicera japonica, Carex intwnescens, Parthenocissus quinquefolius, Sambucus
                canadensis, Peltandra Wrginica, swamp peanut (Apios wnedcana), Osmunda cinnwnomea, and
                Lindera benzoin.


                Disturbances at this site include extensive logging of uplands along the south side of the stream,
                clearing along the floodplain, and a well worn path on the north side.

                No state rare species were observed here, except for two small bald cypress, Taxodium
                dbdchum (S2) individuals; these were observed in a thicket of young vegetation and were Mmly
                planted.

                NATURAI. COAMUNITIES: Poor to good quality.

                0 Fraxinus pensylvanica-Acer rubmm Floodplain Forest [green ash-red inaple swmp
                forest). A somewhat disturbed streamside forest. Stream has been ditched, though not recently.

                OWNERSHIEP/PROTECTTON STATUS: Private/currently no protection.

                ADDMONAL SURVEY NEEDS: A zoological inventory is needed at this site.

                (2) Tappahanna Ditch East Forest (Fig. 13):



                                                                19








                 A large mesic-wet hardwood forest was briefly surveyed on 3 May 1993. Several ditches and
                 old logging roads were observed throughout the area surveyed. Second growth forest consists
                 of mixed hardwoods and a dense understory of an almost inpenetrable greenbrier-blackberry
                 thicket. No rare species were located at this site but only a small fraction of the forest tract was
                 surveyed. It is likely that the physiognomy is little changed throughout.

                 NATURAL COMMUNrM: Poor to moderately good quality (more inventory work is
                 needed).

                 2 Mixed Hardwood Floodplain Forest. A highly diverse second growth Palustrine forest with
                 no true dominants. This forest is composed of a mixture of oaks (Q. alba, Q. falcata, Q. rubra,
                 Q. phellos), Acer rubrum, Liquidambar, and Nyssa sylvatica in the canopy. Greenbriers (Smilax
                 spp.) and brambles (Rubus) are quite abundant and thick throughout.

                 OWNERSHIEP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/cuffently no protection.

                 (3) Stillmar Property at Blackisto (Fig. 14):

                 This site consists of a second-growth hardwood forest dominated by willow oak (Quercus
                 phellos), with a subcanopy consisting of Acer rubrum, and Al@ssa sylvatica, a shrub layer of
                 paw-paw (Asimina tilloba), winterberry (Ilex verticillata), Vlbumwn dentatum, Vacciniwn
                 corymboswn, and an herbaceous layer consisting of cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnwnomea),
                 royal fern (Osmunda regalis), several club-mosses (Lycopodium spp.) and other common species.
                 Certain areas of these woods contain dense, virtually impenetrable thickets of greenbriers
                 (Smilax spp.). Drainage ditches were observed (undoubtedly affecting hydrology), although
                 several low, poorly drained areas were encountered.

                 Although no rare plants were found, several were discovered growing in low swales along a
                 powerline R-O-W that bisects the lower portion of this site and runs in a southeast to northwest
                 direction. The rare plants observed were: globe beakrush, Rhynchopsora globulads (Sl); whip
                 nutrush, Scleria tyiglomerata (Sl); swamp sunflower, Helianthus angustifolius (S2); and colic
                 root, Alettis fafinosa (S3).

                 The most significant zoological find was the presence of the red-banded hairstreak (Calycopis
                 cecrops) utilizing the R-O-W. Although rather common in Delaware, this is only the second
                 occurrence discovered in' Kent County. Other species utilizing the R-O-W include pearl
                 crescent (Phycoides tharos), tiger swallowtail (Papilio glaucus), and other unidentified butterflies
                 and skippers (these species eluded capture and positive identification). The diversity of
                 invertebrates at this site indicates the possibility that rarities may be found with additional
                 inventory effort.

                 NATURAL COMMUNITTES: Poor to good quality.

                    Quercus phellos-Acer mbrum Mesic-Wet Forest [willow oak-red maple forest]. See Site


                                                                  20








                Description (above) for details.

                OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection, however, property
                is being considered for donation to the Delaware Nature Society (private conservation
                organization).

                ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: The seasonally flooded woods should be inventoried for
                amphibians in early spring.

                (4) Northwest of Davis Corners (Fig. 15):

                A rather unremarkable second growth hardwood forest occurs at this site. The only notable
                species observed here was the running pine, Lycopodium clavatum (S3). The forest contained
                several trash dumps.

                NATURAL CONMUNITIES: Not characterized.


                OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection.

                ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Additional botanical, zoological and natural community
                survey work is needed, particularly in the eastern and southern portions of this forest tract.

                (5) Double Ponds (Fig. 16):

                These Coastal Plain ponds consist of rather large open wetlands of emergent vegetation.
                Vegetation consists of primarily grasses and sedges, but may also contain significant amounts
                of button-bush (Cephalanthus occidentalis). Several rare species have been observed in these
                ponds from previous site visits, including the Federal Candidate species, dwarf runbry,
                Embristylis perpusilla (SI, Federal C2); button sedge, Carex bullata (SI); twig-rush,
                Cladium mariscoides (S2); maidencane, Panicum hemitomon (S2); Paspalum dissectum (S2);
                and an arrowhead, Sagidatia engelmanniana (Sl). A spotted turtle (Clemmys gwata, S3)
                was discovered here in March. This was the first known record for this species at this site.

                An otherwise unremarkable second growth forest suffrounds these ponds. However, it should
                be noted, that these surrounding woodlands greatly determine the hydrology and water quality
                of these ponds, as well as protecting existing rare species.

                NATURAL COND4UNIIM: The five herbaceous-dominated coastal plain ponds are of very
                high quality (some of the best pond habitat in Kent County). The surrounding forest is of
                average to good quality.

                  Grarninoid-Dominated Coastal Plain Ponds [Delmarva Bays]. A series of five, relatively
                diverse, intermittently flooded ponds situated in a more or less linear fashion. Frequently
                encountered species in these ponds include the following: Cephalanthus occidentalis (generally


                                                             21








                with ca. 10 % cover), Carex striata, Panic= spretum, Juncus canadensis, Bidens frondosa,
                Rhynchospora macrostachya, Dulichium arundinacewn, Hypeficum Wrginicwn, Rhexia Wrginica,
                Decodon verticillatus, and Proserpinaca pectinata.

                OWNERSHIPMROTECTION STATUS: Private/cuffently no protection.

                ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Additional zoological survey work should be conducted for
                amphibians and invertebrates.

                (6) Jordan Branch (Fig. 17):

                A highly disturbed and narrow Palustrine forested habitat occurs along this creek. The Jordan
                Branch has been ditched previously and plans are underway to rework the ditch this season.
                Extensive paw paw (Asimina tfiloba) occurs along this branch (especially on the east side of the
                ditch). The west side of the branch has very little buffer. Property owners have extended their
                back yards to the edge of the wetland. No rare species were discovered here.

                NATURAL COMM[UNITIES: Not characterized; habitat extremely degraded with an
                abundance of weedy species.

                OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection.

                ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: The presence of paw paw indicates a potential breeding site
                for Eurytides marcellus (Zebra swallowtail), currently ranked SA. This area should be
                inventoried for reproductive evidence of this species.

                PREVIOUS SURVEY RESULTS: Only a few surveys, prior to 1993, were undertaken on the
                Kenton Quadrangle. In addition to several other rare sedges, the most significant discovery was
                the dwarf rimbry, Fimbristylis petpusilla, a Federal Candidate species for listing (see Double
                Ponds site above).

                Mal:ydel Quadranple

                Several rather poor quality mesic-wet second-growth woods, dominated by red maple (Acer
                rubnim), sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua) and other hardwoods (e.g. Quercus spp.,
                Lifiodendron tulipifera, ATyssa sylvatica, Sassaftas albidwn), were inventoried. The understory
                in this forest consists of nearly impenetrable greenbrier (Smilax spp.) thickets. Ditches are also
                prevalent.

                Several Coastal Plain ponds on this quadrangle have been surveyed. With some exceptions, most
                were discovered to be degraded. The majority of these are degraded due to hydrologic
                perturbations (e.g. drained due to ditching), logging to the edge, or agricultural run-off
                problems. In addition, the ponds were either dominated by weedy species, were "filling-in" with
                woody plants, or were being used as trash dumps (particularly those near dwellings or roads).


                                                                22








                (1) Woods and Ponds Northwest of Chapeltown (Mg. 18):

                This site consists of a highly disturbed and degraded large second growth mesic hardwood forest
                of oaks (Q. alba, Q. phellos, Q. falcata, Q. rubra), sweet gum (Liquidambar), and red maple
                (Acer rubrum), with a dense understory of greenbrier, Smilax spp. (the latter species caused
                walking to be extremely difficult and slow). Several ditches "run" through the forest. The large
                pond (as indicated on the topographic map) in the western portion of this forest is also rather
                degraded; the nearby ditches are possibly disturbing its hydrology. At the time of survey (16
                June 1993) the pond was dry. It was also "succeeding" into a forested wetland. No significant
                plant or animal species were observed at this site, although the large sedge, Carex gigantea (0)
                was previously discovered from the pond.

                NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Due to disturbed/degraded condidtion of this forest tract the
                natural communities were not assessed.


                OWNERSHIENPROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection.

                (2) Culbreth Marsh Ditch Pond (Fig. 19):

                A small roadside pond was briefly surveyed on 16 June 1993. The pond was dry and contained
                very little herbaceous cover, only sphagnum moss was observed (although the rare plants, giant
                sedge, Carex gigantea (S3) and beak rush, Rhynchospora corniculata (SI) were reported here
                from a previous year's survey). The surrounding forest consists of mixed oaks and other
                hardwoods. No animal species of special concern were observed.

                NATURAL COMMUNMES: The brief visit, and the lack of vegetation at time of sampling,
                precluded an assessment of the natural community.

                OWNERSHIPMROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection.

                ADDMONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Zoological inventory should take place in April to
                determine the presence of any amphiban species of concern. Also, the vegetation of the pond
                should be re-evaluated and the surrounding forest needs to be surveyed.

                (3) Sandtown Pond (Fig. 20):

                This pond was noted to consist of a relatively high diversity of herbaceous species, including
                several rare grasses and sedges (discovered in 1992): maidencane, Panicum hemilomon (S2);
                Walter's paspalum, Paspalum dissectum (S2); and long-beaked baldrush, Rhynchospora
                scirpoides (S2). No rare animals were located here.

                NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Rather good quality pond considering its lack of buffer and
                nearness to countyroad.



                                                               23








                m Cephalanthus occidenWhsljuncus canadensis Coastal Plain Pond [buttonbush/rush coastal
                plain pond]. Although this pond is immediately adjacent to a road and agricultural land it is Of
                medium quality and deserves some protection/restoration efforts. The buttonbush occurs in small
                clusters with a cover value of less than 25 %, while the rush is quite abundant and has a cover
                value of nearly 40%.

                OWNERSEIMPROTECTION STATUS: Private/cuffently no protection.

                (4) Other degmded ponds:

                More than ten ponds (some located north of Mud Millpond, others near Sandtown) were
                surveyed and were discovered to be degraded. These ponds either had succeeded to closed
                canopy, were drained, had been timbered to their edges or within their borders, or were found
                to contain many weedy species.

                There was a paucity of animals observed in these ponds, an occasional grey treefrog and green
                frog were observed or heard, while rare salamanders (e.g. tiger, Ambystoma tigfinwn, and
                spotted, A. maculawn) were not located.

                OWNERSHIMPROTECTION STATUS: All ponds are believed to be privately owned with
                no current protection.

                (5) Forest South of Culbreth Marsh Ditch (Fig. 21):

                This site is a dry-wet mixed hardwood, second growth forest dominated by red maple and sweet
                gums, with a scattering of willow oaks Quercus phellos). Old logging roads and ditches were
                scattered throughout the area sampled. A very inhospitable place, with impenetrable thickets of
                greenbriers (Smilax spp.). Clethra alnifolia is the dominant shrub. Surveys here were incomplete
                but habitat is believed to be similar throughout. No rare plant species were observed.

                NATURAL COMAUNITIES: Poor to fair quality; additional surveys are needed.

                E Acer rubrum-Liquidambar styraciflua Forest [red maple-sweet gum woods]. See Site
                Description (above) for details.

                OWNERSHIEP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection

                ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Although the forest is somewhat degraded, and walking
                is difficult, this site needs additional zoological and botanical survey.

                (6) Choptank River (Fig. 22):

                Site A. North Side of RD 211 bridge:



                                                               24





                 North of RD 211 in the wetlands and forests surrounding the Choptank, many rare species'of
                 plants were found: a nut sedge, Cypems refmaus (NEW STATE RECORD, now ranked Sl);
                 slender day flower, Commelina erecta var. angusdfoUa (Sl); cluster-stemmed chickweed,
                 Paronychia fastigiata (Sl); hairy bushclover, Lespedeza hirta (S2); hairy pinweed, Lechea
                 vfflosa (S2); low frostweed, Helianthemum propinquum (S2); toothcup, Rotala ramosior (S2);
                 forked chickweed, Paronychia canadensis (S2); sharp-winged monkey flower, Mimulus
                 alatus (S2); velvety tick treefoil, Desmodium viridiflorum (S2); smooth tick-treefoug
                 Desmodium laevigatum (S2); Elliot's Gentain, Gendana catesbaei (S3); hairy skullcap,
                 Scutellaria effiptica (S3); and white milkweed, Asclepias variagata (SU).

                 NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Additional surveys are needed before descriptions can be
                 written.


                 OWNERSHIEP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Much additional survey work is needed within this riverine
                 system. There is potential for the discovery of zoological species of concern. In particular, this
                 area is a historic site for the Cerulean warbler (Dendroica cerulea; S 1B, Federal C2). This
                 system may also be a critical area for neotropical migrants during the breeding season and
                 during spring and fall migration. Additional botanical and community inventory is warrante       d .

                 Site B. Choptank River South of RD 211 bridge-,

                 This area is a Palustrine System thta seems to be of fairly high quality. Several dragonfly species
                 were seen but were unable to be collected with the exception of Engthemis simplicicollis
                 (common in Delaware). A number of neotropical migrant birds (8 species total) were identified
                 as well as many year-round resident species.

                 A significant botanical find included the discovery of the rough dropseed, Sporobolus
                 clandestinus (formerly ranked SH, now SI) and tall bush clover, Lespedeza stuevei (formerly
                 ranked SH, now SI). A large population of wild columbine, Aquillegia canadensis (SI) was
                 found growing along a sandy road bank just west of the river. This population, which is the only
                 known station on Delaware's Coastal Plain, was first reported by Robert Tatnall in 1934. Also
                 found at this site was the rare blunt-lobed woodsia, Woodsia obtusa (S2), another plant species
                 typically found on the Piedmont; this is its first known Coastal Plain location in Delaware and
                 a new KENT COUNTY RECORD. Lastly, surveys revealed the presence of the state rare
                 lance-leaved loosestrife, Lysimachia hybrida (S2) found near the wetland.

                 A young oak-hickory woodland (sparse canopy, ca 20-30 ft.) on mesic sandy soil along the east
                 side of the floodplain, was surveyed. Several rare plant species were discovered at this site:
                 wintergreen,      ChimaphUa umbellata ssp. cisatlantica (Sl); and crinkled hairgrass,
                 Deschampsia flexuosa (S3). The woodland consists of mature hardwoods (e.g. hickory (Carya
                 tomentosa), Quercus alba, Quercus falcata, red oak Quercus rubra), Liquidambar styraciflua,
                 and Carpinus caroliniana). Virginia pine (Pinus Wrginiana) is also present. The understory is


                                                                 25








                 sparse with such species as Gaylussacia frondosa, Parthenocissus quinquifolia, Cara
                 pennsylvanica, and Smilacina racemosa, present.

                 NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Needs additional surveys before descriptions can be written.

                 OWNERSHMPROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection.

                 THREATS: Development of surrounding uplands could greatly impact the biota and water
                 quality of this unique riverine system. Fragmentation of the surrounding woodlands would also
                 negatively impact the forest-interior neotropical resident bird population which occurs within this
                 river corridor.


                 ADDMONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Additional botanical, zoological and community inventory
                 is needed. The Choptank River is a historical location for the Cerulean Warbler (Dendroica
                 cerulea; SlB, Federal C2). This species should be looked for in May and June. The number
                 of rare species discovered here this year, suggests the need for further inventory.

                 Site C. Swamp Forest S. of Choptank Mills:

                 A red maple (Acer rubnon)-dominated swamp forest is located west of the Choptank. This site
                 is very open with abundant Carex stricta tussocks, resulting in a hummocky topography. Trees
                 are few and scattered. No rare species were observed.

                 On the east side of the river, groundwater seepage areas found at the base of steep 50 ft. slopes
                 of the Choptank River, were surveyed; specifically for the Federally Threatened swamp pink,
                 Helonias bullata, known historically from this area (searches were unsuccessful). The slopes
                 adjacent to the wetlands consisted of well drained sandy soils with various oak species and a
                 sparse heath understory. The wetlands contained the following species: Acer rubrum, C7ethra
                 alnifolia, swamp azalea (Rhododendron Wscosum), 0smunda regalis, 0. cinnamomea,
                 Woodwardia areolata, marsh fern (Thelypteris palustris), spike moss (Selaginella apoda),
                 Sphagnwn sp., Thalictrwn pubescens, Impaiiens capensis, Symplocarpus foetidus, water-mat
                 (Chrysosplenium americanum), Viola cucullata, wind-flower (Anemone quinquefolia), may-
                 flower (Maianthemwn canadensis), Liliwn superbitm, greenwood orchid (Platanthera clavellata),
                 Galiwn sp., and cucumber root (Medeola virginiana).

                 Although not a naturally occurring habitat, a sandy shoulder of County Road 247 supports a
                 large flowering population of the bird's-foot violet, Viola pedata (Sl).

                 NATURAL COMMUNnIES: Good to high quality swamp forests.

                 0 Acer rubrum Swamp Forest [red maple swamp]. A mixed hardwood swamp dominated by
                 red maples with lesser amounts of Liquidambar, Nyssa sylvatica, Quercus phellos, and Fraxinus
                 pensylvanica.



                                                                 26








                 ONVNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection.

                 TIEREATS: Further fragmentation of surrounding woodlands.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: This area needs additional botanical, community and
                 zoological inventory. This system should be inventoried for rare birds, reptiles, amphibians and
                 invertebrates. There is potential for further discovery of rare species.

                 (7) Iron Nfine Prong at Norman Wilder Wildlife Area at RD 249 (FIg. 23):

                 Seven species of neotropical migrant birds were noted at this site on a brief June visit. No other
                 significant animal occurrences were found. However, Iron Mine Prong does have the potential
                 for containing an array of invertebrate species. A newly constructed beaver dam was found on
                 the site.


                 NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Not assessed at this site.

                 OWNERSHIPPROTECTION STATUS: This area is partially owned by the State of
                 Delaware, Division of Fish and Wildlife. The remaining land is private and currently
                 unprotected.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Botanical, and natural community surveys are needed. In
                 addition, zoological surveys focusing on breeding birds and invertebrates, should be conducted.

                 PREVIOUS SURVEY RESULTS: Surveys prior to 1993 were few and incomplete, but a
                 number of species of special concern were discovered: e.g., large sedge, Carex gigantea (S3)-,
                 reticulated nutsedge, Scleria reticulazis (S2); short-bristled horned-rush, Rhynchospora
                 corniculata (S2); maiden-cane, Panicum hemitomon (S2);Iance-leavedloosestrife, Lysimachi4
                 hybrida (S2); comely shiner, Notropis amoenus (S2); mud sunfish, Acantharchus pomotis
                 (S2); margined madtom, Noturus insignus (S2); rough green snake, Opheodrys aestivus (S2);
                 and eastern milk snake, Lampropeltus getula (S3). No significant natural communities had been
                 previously identified for the Marydel Quadrangle.

                 Milford Quadranple

                 (1) Fishing Branch Marsh (Flig. 24):

                 This site contains an excellent and highly diverse fresh to oligohaline tidal marsh (scrub-shrub
                 in places). Dominant species include: Impatiens capensis, Leersia oryzoides, and Zizania
                 aquatica. Other co-occurring species are: Sium suave, Toxicodendron radicans, Acer rubrum,
                 Bidens laevis, Thalictrum pubescens, Magnolia virginiana, Polygonum arifolium, Amaranthus
                 cannabinus, Hibiscus moscheutos, his versicolor, and Sagittaria lati/blia.

                 While no rare species were located, the Fishing Branch system was not completely surveyed and


                                                                 27








                 the possibility for rare species still exists.

                 NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Excellent quality.

                 0 Impatiens capensis-Leersia orywides-Zitania aquatica Oligohaline Tidal Marsh [fresh-
                 brackish tidal marsh]. See Site Description (above) for details.

                 OWNERSHIIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/cuffently no protection

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: This area needs additional zoological and botanical
                 inventory work.

                 (2) Swan Creek at New Wharf/Mispillion River (Flig. 25):

                 Extensive, high quality and diverse oligohaline to mesohaline tidal marshes occur along Swan
                 Creek. These marshes then grade into freshwater marshes, scrub-shrub and then forested
                 wetlands respectively. Much of the marsh is dominated by large expanses of sweet flag, Acorus
                 calwnus. Large colonies of cattails, 7ypha spp., are also present. Other common co-occurring
                 species include Polygonum afifolium, Peltandra virginica, Pontederia cordata, Hibiscus
                 mosheutos, Amaranthus cannabinus, Typha angustifiblia, T. latifiblia, Zizania aquatica, Leersia
                 orywides, and Eleochafis parvula.

                 In addition to the above species, a relatively large population of arrowhead, Sagittaria calycina
                 (Sl) was discovered in semi-open areas among the Acorus, about 200 meters west of Rd. 409.
                 This discovery is significant in that it represents a new Kent County record.

                 Animal use of this wetland seems to be somewhat limited, although additional surveys are
                 recommended. The more notable species observed at this site were the Great Blue Heron,
                 Ardea herodias (S2B); Common Snipe, GaNnago gallinago (S3N); and the Sora, Porzana
                 carolina (SM). More significantly however, a butterfly, the bronze copper, Lycaena hyllus
                 (S2) was discovered at this site in September.

                 NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Good to excellent quality marshes.

                 E Acorus calamus Oligobaline Tidal Marsh [sweet flag tidal marsh]. A high quality and
                 extensive sweet flag-dominated marsh.

                 0 Typha spp. Oligohaline Tidal Marsh [cattail tidal marsh]. Significant areas of the Swan
                 Creek Marsh system contain cattail-dominated communities included within an otherwise sweet
                 flag-dominated marsh.

                 OWNERSHIP/FROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Further inventory should be conducted here, with emphasis


                                                                28








                 on breeding wetland birds.

                 (3) Brockenbridge Gut Woods (Fig. 26):

                 This site contains a mature mixed hardwood forest of relatively high quality. The canopy is
                 dominated by Quercus phellos and Q. alba. Species found in lesser quantities include Acer
                 rubnon, Liquidambar styraciflua, Lifiodendron tulipifera, Nyssa sylvatica, Pinus taeda, and P.
                 iftiniana. Small wetland openings dominated by Sphagnwn moss are scattered throughout the
                 forest. Walking is relatively easy, although some areas are thick with Clethra alnifolia and/or
                 Kalmia latifolia. Several old logging roads are present; no rare species were observed here.

                 NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Moderately good quality forest.

                 a Quercus phelloslClethra alnifiblia Mesic-Wet Forest [willow oak/sweet pepperbush woods].
                 See Site Description (above) for details.

                 OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: This woodland should be inventoried to determine breeding
                 bird composition, focusing on those species associated with mature forests. Much additional
                 botanical and natural community surveys could be undertaken in this forest tract.

                 (4) Brockenbridge Gut Powerline R-O-W (Fig. 26):

                 Though not a natural habitat, an extensive swale occurs along the powerline cut south of Rd. 120
                 Oust east of Rd 419). A large population of the small swollen bladderwort, Utficularia radiata
                 (S2), and southern bog clubmoss, Lycopodium appressum (S2) were found here.

                 NATURAL COMMINrIUS: Not present (anthropogenic).

                 OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Additional rare species may be discovered if this site is
                 surveyed later in the growing season.

                 (5) Mispillion River at Beaverdam Branch (Fig. 27):

                 Arather high quality cord grass, Spartina altemiflora, dominated high marsh occurs along this
                 portion of the Mispillion River. This marsh extends for some distance up and down the river.
                 A large population of black grass (Juncus gerardi) occurs intermingled with the cord grass.
                 Baccharis and Iva are common marsh associates and are especially abundant at slightly higher
                 elevations. A pair of Northern Harriers, Circus cyeanus (SIB, S3N) nested near this site and
                 may well have utilized this area for foraging.



                                                               29








                  NATURAL COND4UNITIES: Moderately good quality.

                  E SpaiVna aftemiflom Salt Wrsh [corgrass salt marsh].

                  E Baccharis hatamifoUa4va frutescens Scrub-Shrub N[arsh [groundsel tree-high tide bush
                  marsh; salt bush-salt meadow marsh].

                  OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/cuffently no protection

                  ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: This site should be inventoried for breeding birds.
                  Importance of this area to nesting Northern harriers should be determined.

                  PREVIOUS SURVEY RESULTS: Prior surveys were undertaken in excellent riverine habitats
                  along the Browns Branch and portions of the Murderkill River, where the following species of
                  special concern were discovered: seaside alder, Alnus marwma (S3); tickseed sunflower,
                  Bidens coronata (S2); blue-joint reedgrass, Calamagrostis canadensis (Sl); lake sedge, Carex
                  lacustris (SI); false hopsedges, C lupulifoimis (Sl); Walter's St. John-wort, Triadenum
                  walleri (S2); and swamp white oak, Quercus bicolor (Sl). Surveys of Tubmill Pond resulted
                  in the discovery of the following species of special concern: Mitchell's sedge, Carer
                  mitchefflana (SI); horsetail spikerush, Eleocharis equisetiodes (S2); squarestem spikerush,
                  E. quadmngulata (S3); hairy umbrella-sedge, Fuirena squarrosa (S3); and brown-fruited
                  rush, Juncus pelocarpus (S2).

                  Millington Quadrangle

                  No biotic surveys were undertaken on this quadrangle during 1993. In addition, prior surveys
                  are also lacking.

                  ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Surveys are needed in all forested habitats in the Kent
                  County portion of this quadrangle.

                  Mispillion River Qugdrangle

                  (1) The Nature Conservangy Preserve on Ntilford               (F`ig. 28):

                  The Nature Conservancy has acquired a >2000 acre tract of forests and marshes on Milford
                  Neck in southeastern Kent County. The DNHI have undertaken partial surveys of this property
                  and significant discoveries for the 1993 field season are presented below.

                  Site A. Palustrine Forest:

                  A seasonally flooded deciduous forest of fairly high quality exists at this site. A mixture of oaks,
                  red maple, sweet gum, tulip poplar, black gum and sassafras predominate. Some areas are
                  dominated by willow oak (Quercus phellos) and swamp chestnut oak (Q. michauxii), while other

                                                                  30









                 areas are more diverse. Within this Palustrine forest, a population of spotted salamanders,
                 Ambystoma maculatum (Sl), was discovered; this is the second population known to exist in
                 Kent County.

                 NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Fair to good quality.

                   Quercus phellos-Q. michauxii Palustrine Forest [willow oak-swamp chestnut oak swamp
                 forest].

                  Mixed Hardwoods Mesic-Wet Forest. Consists of a diversity of deciduous species (e.g.
                 Quercus alba, Q. falcata, Q. michauxii, Q. phellos, Acer rubrum, Liquidambar, Nyssa sylvatica,
                 Liriodendron tulipifera, Sassafras albidum, and Diospyros virginiana), with a few scattered pines
                 (Pinus taeda).

                 Site B. Salt marshes:


                 The saltmarshes at Milford Neck Preserve can be characterized as consisting of four distinctive
                 vegetative zones (or communities); grading from a scrub-shrub community in the high marsh
                 fringe area to pure low saltmarsh. In some areas, two of the zones (middle two below) may be
                 replaced by Typha angustifolia when fresh ground water seepage is encountered.

                 These marshes were surveyed on several occasions. The marshes provide critical foraging habitat
                 for several species of waterfowl and shorebirds during migration. In addition, many species of
                 concern may also use this area for nesting. Species of special concern which were found in
                 1993, include: Northern Harrier, Circus cyaneus (S1B, S3N); Hooded Merganser,
                 Lophodytes cucullatus (S2N); Gadwall, Anas strepera (S3N); Great Blue Heron, Ardea
                 herodias (S2B); Snowy Egret, Egretta thula (S1B); Glossy Ibis, Plegadis falinellus (S2B);
                 Bald Eagle, Haliaeetus leucocephalis (SIB, LT); Great Egret, Casmerodus albus (S2B);
                 Tricolored Heron, Egretta tricolor (S1B); Great Black-backed Gull, Larus marinus (S1B,
                 S5N); Common Tern, Stern hirundo (S1B, S3N); Forster's Tern, Sterna Forsteri (S1B,
                 S3N); Seaside Sparrow, Ammodraus maritimus (S3B); White-rumped Sandpiper. Calidris
                 fuscicollis (S3T); Black-necked Stilt, Himantopus mexicanus (S2B); and Dunlin, Calidris
                 alpina (S3T).

                 NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Good to excellent quality.

                   Baccharis halimifolia-Iva frutescens High Scrub Marsh [groundsel tree-marsh elder scrub
                 marsh]

                   Juncus gerardi/Limonium carolinianus-Carex staminea-Solidago semperyirens [black
                 grass-sea lavender-sedge-seaside goldenrod association]

                   Spartina patens-Distichlis spicata-Scirpus robustus-Scirpus americanus-Salicornia europea
                 [salt hay-spike grass-saltmarsh bulrush-three square-glasswort marsh association]

                                                               31








                 0 Spailina afterniflora Salt Marsh [cordgrass salt marsh]

                 Site C. Peninsular Forest:

                 In this "peninsular" forested habitat, which is surrounded on three sides by saltmarsh, a high salt
                 marsh "bog-like" wetland exists. This is a herbaceous-dominated habitat surrounded by a forest
                 comprised of Pinus taeda. The species found in the herbaceous wetland included the following:
                 Spartina patens, bull rush (Scirpus validus), Hibiscus palustfis, Atriplex patula and 7@pha
                 angustifiblia.

                 Several rare plant species were observed along an old dirt road that bissects the "peninsular"
                 forest enroute to the saltmarsh: white-tubed colic root, Aletrisfayinosa (S3); and a violet, Viola
                 brittoniana (S2). Additionally, two spotted turtles, Clemmys guttata (S3), were found at two
                 different locations at this site.


                 NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Not assessed at this site.


                 OWNERSHIENFROTECTION STATUS: Private (The Nature Conservancy)/protected.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: A significant amount of habitat exists at this site that yet
                 needs to be surveyed.

                 PREVIOUS SURVEY RESULTS: Surveys prior to 1993 were minimal, and only a few species
                 of special concern were located: Joorls sedge, Carexidoiii (S2); and narrow-leaved sunflower,
                 Helianthus angustifolius (S2).

                 Sudlersville Quadrangle

                 No biotic surveys were undertaken on this quadrangle during 1993. In addition, prior surveys
                 are also lacking.

                 ADDMONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Surveys are needed in the limited forested habitats present
                 in the Kent County portion of this quadrangle (the majority of Sudlersville occurs in Maryland).


                 Wyoming Quadrapgle

                 (1) Tidbury Creek Marshes (Fig. 29):

                 Tidbury creek marsh is bordered by an impressive hardwood forest, with many mature trees (the
                 forest is undoubtedly used by an array of migratory and resident passerine species). The
                 wetlands consist of an exceptionally diverse, impressive brackish to freshwater tidal marsh. This
                 system was briefly inventoried. The marsh species that were dominant in the plots sampled,
                 included the following: Amaranthus cannabinus, Leersia oryzoides, Peltandra virginica, 7ypha


                                                                 32








                 latifolia, whorled-dock O?umex verticillatus), Zizania aquatica, Hibiscus moscheutos, and
                 saltmarsh sedge (Scirpus robustus). An unidentified cespitose sedge (Carex sp.) was common
                 in the area of the marsh surveyed. Shrubs were also well-represented: Clethra alnifolia, Rosa
                 palusms, and Toxicodendron radicans. Additionally, brief zoological inventories revealed that
                 this marsh is utilized periodically by wading birds, as a foraging area. Species observed include:
                 Great Blue Heron, Ardea herodius (S2B) and Great Egret, Casmerodius albus (M).
                 Ospreys were also seen using this marsh as a feeding site.

                 NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Excellent quality marshes.

                 0 Amaranthus cannabinus-Leersia orywides-Typha Wfolia Oligohallne Tidal Marsh [water
                 hemp-rice cut-grass-cattail tidal marsh]. A very high quality tidal marsh.

                 OWNERSHIP AND PROTECTION STATUS: Private/curr                    ently no protection.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Much additional biotic surveys are needed throughout this
                 extensive high quality tidal marsh community and adjacent hardwood forests. In particular,
                 inventory work should focus on the importance of this system to wading waterbirds. A breeding
                 bird inventory should also be undertaken.

                 (2) Isaac Branch at Wyoming/Camden (Fig. 30):

                 An extremely degraded hardwood swamp forest occurs along the Isaac Branch. This is not
                 surprising considering the narrowness of the habitat and its nearness to the community of
                 Camden/Wyoming.

                 NATURAL COMMUNITIES: Very degraded.

                 0 Acer rubrum Swamp Forest [red maple swamp].

                 OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Only limited additional inventories are needed here. One
                 need would be to survey for the Federally Threatened swamp pink ((Helonias bullata), that was
                 known, historically, from Isaac Branch. Inventory should focus further downstream.

                 (3) Hudson/Pratt Branches (Fig. 31):

                 Only brief surveys were undertaken along these two streams. Along Hudson Branch the habitat
                 consists of moderate to good quality palustrine floodplain forest, with a rather narrow forested
                 buffer on the north side. The wetlands are dominated by red maple (Acer rubnon) with lesser
                 amounts of Liquiddinbar styraciflua, Fraxinus pensylvanica, and Nyssa sylvatica. The sweet-
                 pepperbush (Clethra alnifiblia) was the dominant shrub species. The south side of the Branch
                 consisted of relatively steep-sloped upland woods that extend towards the south and towards Pratt


                                                                 33








                 Branch. The south side of Pratt Branch consists of relatively steep-sided hardwood forests
                 consisting of beech (Fagus grandifolia), oaks (Quercus spp.), poplar (Lifiodendron tulipifera),
                 and sweet gum (Liquidambar sytraciflua), among others. The palustrine wetlands, including the
                 tidal marshes, were only briefly surveyed, but appear to be of high quality.

                 NATURAL COAINIUNMES: Moderately good quality.

                 a Acer rubrumlClethm alnifoHa Swamp Forest [red maple/sweet pepperbush swamp]. Along
                 Hudson Branch.


                 OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently no protection.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Although no rare species were observed at this site,
                 additional inventory work is needed.

                 PREVIOUS SURVEY RESULTS: Surveys prior to 1993 were limited to a small woodlot near
                 Woodside which had several species of special concern (large whorled pogonia, Isotria
                 vey*iflata, S3; pinesap, Monotmpa hypopithys, S2), and roadside occurrences of the rare
                 crested shield-fern, Dryoptefis cristata (S2), and Elliott's gentian, Gendana catesbad (S2).

                                                           DISCUSSION


                 Survey work in Kent County revealed a landscape much altered and impacted by human
                 activities, notwithstanding the general ruralness of the county. Habitat degradation in the county,
                 in part, seems to have resulted from extensive ditching operations and deforestation. The ditches
                 have altered the hydrologic regime of individual sites and have apparently sacrificed the
                 biological integrity of these habitats. Many of the sites visited were low in overall biodiversity
                 and often contained an abundance of weedy and/or alien species (thus could be considered poor
                 quality habitats). Throughout much of the eastern portion of the county many of the upland
                 forests have been removed and now only a narrow buffer (if any) separates the wetlands from
                 agricultural or urban landscapes. Large forested tracts that were surveyed (albeit incompletely),
                 primarily, consisted of degraded, second and third-growth woods. These were often thick and
                 nearly impenetrable from an understory of briers, and brambles. However, there still remains an
                 enormous amount of forested habitats yet to be surveyed in Kent County.

                 A preponderance of the Coastal Plain ponds surveyed were quite degraded, possibly due to the
                 effects of ditching (some ponds had ditches leading from them, or near them), agricultural run-
                 off, or otherwise changes in the pond's hydrology. Though not thoroughly surveyed, the tidal
                 salt marshes, are criss-crossed by a network of mosquito ditching (it is unclear to what extent
                 these ditches have impacted the marshes); many of these marshes are of surprising good quality.
                 Dense Phragmites stands are not altogether inftequent. Likewise, only a small portion of tidal
                 and non-tidal fteshwater emergent marshes were surveyed.

                 Although much of the landscape surveyed was degraded, to varying degrees, the county is not


                                                                 34








                 entirely an ecological wasteland. Several impressive, mature forest tracts were identified (e.g.
                 along the Mudstone and Fork Branches, along Hudson/Pratt Branches, and near Bombay Hook
                 National Wildlife Refuge). Several ponds in western Kent County (on the Kenton Quadrangle),
                 and on Milford Neck are of very high quality, while the marshes along Mispillion River, at
                 Bennetts Pier, along the St. Jones River (not surveyed to any extent) and its tributaries (e.g.
                 Tidbury Creek), and along Fishing Creek, to name a few, are of high quality.

                 The total land area of Kent County is - 380,000 acres, and of this total, approximately 28%
                 (- 106,540 acres) consists of forested habitats (DNREC, GIS-generated data). In addition,
                 another 12% (= 46,000 acres) is comprised of Estuarine and Palustrine tidal non-forested
                 habitats (from Tiner, R.W. 1985. Wetlands of Delaware. USFWS, Newton Comer, MA, and
                 DNREC, Dover, DE. 77 p.). In total, nearly 40% (or 146,540 acres) of the Kent County land
                 area was available for surveying.

                 In conclusion, biotic and natural community surveys in Kent County during the grant period
                 (1992-93; with majority of field work undertaken in 1993) were far from complete. It is
                 estimated that not even 1% of the total available habitats present were surveyed. In addition,
                 many of the habitats surveyed were considered to be of rather poor quality. However, some sites
                 contained good to excellent habitats. Results from surveys in the upper St. Jones River watershed
                 (especially along the Mudstone and Fork Branches), along the Murderkill, Mispillion, and
                 Choptank Rivers, and in marshes on Milford Neck suggest that future Kent County surveys
                 should be concentrated in these areas.































                                                                35







   I
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                                                              --l
   I                                Al" INSERT
   I                              KENT COUNTY - SURVEY SrrES
   I
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   I
   I







                       STATE OF DELAWARE
        DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND
                 ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL
                DIVISION OF PARKS AND RECREATION
                89 KINGS HIGHWAY, P.O. BOX 1401
                     DOVER, DELAWARE 19903

          OFFICIAL BUSINESS, PENALTY FOR PRIVATE USE $300

                             40-06-00



                      Kent County Survey Sites

                           (Refer to individual
                           site figures for details)


                                                                                                                                                                                                        LEGEND
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                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Roads
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                                                                                                                                                                       This map is p,ep.,ed priina,ily for inte-zat VNHEC
                                                                                                                                                                       resource management purposes. The information
                                                                                                                                                                       contained hereon is preliminary and is subject to
                                                                                                                                                                       change or modification at any time. Use of this
                                                                                                                                                                       information by others is   at thetr olon It.sk and the
                                                                                                                                                                       DNREC in no wmij aimraniees the accuracii of the information.



   I
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                   A        IX I k- t r
                                     t Count, Survey Si s r 1993 (Figs. 1-31).
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                               RGUM 4. White Marsh Branch Woods; Bumville Quadrange.









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              FIGURE 5. Mudstone Branch, showing Site A (east of Kenton Road) and Site B
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                     FIGUM 6. Mesic-wet Forest West of Cheswold; Dover Quadrangle.

















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                             FIGURE 7. Fork Branch West of Kenton Road; Dover Quadrangle.






















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                            FIGURE 8. Cahoon Branch South of Road 158; Dover Quadrangle




















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                   FIGUM 9. Leipsic River Above Garrisons Lake; Dover Quadrangle.


























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              FIGURE 10. Milford Neck Ponds East showing Site A (Pond       2) and Site B
               (Black's Pond); Frederica Quadrangle.










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                            FIGURE 11. Bright-Haines Glade Branch Forest; Harrington Quadrangle.

























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                     FIGURE 12. Penrose Branch East of Road 163; Kenton Quadrangle.







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                              FIGURE 13, Tappahanna Ditch East Forest;L Kenton Quadrangle.









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                    RGURE 14.        Stillmar Property at Blacldston; Kenton Quadrangle.






















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                                nGun 15. Woods Northwest of Davis Comers; Kenton Quadrangle.

















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                      FIGURE 16. Double Ponds; Kenton Quadmngle.













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                  FIGURE 17.         Jordan Branch;      Kenton Quadranee.

































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             FIGURE 18.     Woods and Ponds Northwest of Chapeltown;  Marydel Quadrangle.
































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                         RGUM 19. Culbreth Marsh Ditch Pond; marydel Quadmgle.




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                   FIGU" 20.           Sandtown Pond; marydel Quadrangle.




































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                                            RGU" 21. Forest South of Culberth Marsh Ditch;                                                                                                  Marydel Quadrangle.











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               FIGURE 22.      Choptank River, showing Site A (Above Road 211 Bridge), Site
               B (Choptank River at and below Road 211 Bridge) and Site,C (Swamp Forest
               South of Choptank Mills); Marydel Quadrangle.




























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              FIGURE 23. Iron Mine Prong at Norman Wilder Wildlife Area at Road 249;
              Marydel Quadrangle.





























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                                                                33


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                       FIGURE 24.            Fishing Branch Marsh; Wford Quadmngle.



















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                            RGU" 25.                   Swan Creek at New Wharf/Mispillion River;                                      MilfOrd Quadrangle-










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                              6
                40
                                                                 A@
                                                                     Site A

       _Z;
                  ey Ch



                                                                      QOr






                                                                                   S'
                                 0









            0




               Spring                                   28


            FIGURE 26. Brockenbridge Gut Mesic Woods (Site A) and Powerline R-O-W
            (Site B); Milford Quadrangle.





















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                                                  33


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                                     m

                                                                                                    C-D
                                                                                                                                            CP
                                                                                                    46.4r,

                                                              Q>






                                                                                                                                                                               2.1



                              FIGUM 27. Nspillion River at Beaverdwn Branch;                                                                     muford Quadmngie.











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                                                                                                                                  4b
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                                                                                                                ..C                                                  Site          13


                                                                                                                                                                                                                        46-   .do-

                                                                                                                                                                                                         Aa-

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        4r-

                                                                                                                                                                                  lot

                                                                 Site A




                                                                                                                                                                Z
                                                                        Site
                                                                                                                                                                                                                          db.
                                                                                                                                                                                                   Rawley
                                                                                                                                                                                                  Island

                                                                                         413Z


                                                                                                                                                                                                                                41'


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                                                                                                                                                                          41.








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                                                                               ft.                                                 41@
                                                                    -                                          7*7-                             .4b-



                                     FIGURE 28. The Nature Conservancy Preserve on Milford Neck, showing Site
                                     A (Palustrine Forest) Site B (Salt Marshes) and Site C (Penninsular Forest);
                                     Mispillion River Quadrangle.












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                                      0






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                                                                                                                                       V.








                                                                                                                              36


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                                                                                                                        Her
                                                                                                                      Park
                                                      Vpshefi                                 CO. .9,
                                                         Pb?i                                                                                            A'3

                                                                                                         -c





                                                     Al UK





                          RGURE 29. Tidbury Creek Marshes; Wyoming Quadrangle.






































                                                                               113






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            RGUM 30. Isaac Branch at Wyoming/Camden; wyoming Quadrangle.













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                                                                                                 me



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                                                 .Azi
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                                                                  p                                                                             It

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                                     0



                     FIGURE 31. Hudson/Pratt Branches; wyommg Quadraligle.



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  I
  I                   APPENDIX 11. Rare Species State Ranldng Criteria.
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  1                                          37
  1






                         EXPLANATION OF STATE RANKS FOR SPECIES OF SPECUL CONCERN


                        Ranks are based on a system developed by The Nature Conservancy to measure the rarity of a species. Each taxon
                    is given a global and state rank. The global rank reflects the rarity of the species throughout the world and the state rank
                    reflects the rarity within Delaware. State and global ranks are used to prioritize conservation and protection efforts so
                    that the rarest of species receive immediate attention. The primary criteria for ranking species is the number of known
                    distinct occurrences or populations. Ranks for individual species are annually updated and are based on current
                    knowledge.


                    STATE RANKS


                    S1 Extremely rare; typically 5 or fewer known occurrences in the state; or only a few remaining individuals; may be
                    especially vulnerable to extirpation.

                    S2 Very rare; typically between 6 and 20 known occurrences; may be susceptible to becoming extirpated.

                    S3 Rare to uncommon; typically 21 to 100 known occurrences; S3 ranked species are not yet susceptible to becoming
                    extirpated in the state but may be if additional populations are destroyed.

                    S4 Common; apparently secure under present conditions; typically 100 or more known occurrences, but may be fewer
                    with many large populations; usually not susceptible to immediate threats.

                    S5 Very common; demonstrably secure under present conditions.

                    SU Status uncertain; an uncommon species considered to be of concern and of conservation priority in the state, but
                    there is inadequate data to determine rarity. Also includes uncommon species of uncertain nativity in the state.

                    SH Historically known from the state but not verified for an extended period (usually 15 years); there are expectations
                    that the species may be rediscovered.

                    SX Species has been determined or presumed to be extirpated. All historical occurrences have been searched or all
                    known sites have been destroyed, and a thorough search of potential habitat has been completed.

                    SA Accidental in state, including species (umially birds or butterflies) recorded once or twice or only at very great
                    intervals, hundreds or even thousands of miles outside their usual range; a few of these species may even have bred on
                    the one or two occasions they were recorded; examples include European strays or western birds on the East Coast and
                    vice-versa.


                    SB Regularly occurring species that are known to breed in the state (typically applies to birds).

                    SE Exotic in the state, not a part of the native flora; may be native elsewhere in North America (e.g. western United
                    States).

                    SN Regularly occurring, usually migratory and typically non-breeding species for which no significant or effective
                    habitat conservation measures can be taken in the state; this category includes migratory birds, bats, sea turtles, and
                    cetaceans which do not breed in a given state but pass through twice a year or may remain in the winter (or, in a few
                    cases, the summer).

                    SR Reported from the state, but without persuasive documentation that would provide a basis for either accepting or
                    rejecting the report.

                    SRF Species reported falsely (in error) from the state, but this error persists in the literature.

                    ST Species whose taxonomic status are uncertain (i.e. may not be taxonomically distinct from other closely related taxa).




                                                                                                                                 NOAA COASTAL SERVICES CTR LIBRARY   :
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