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








































































              QL
              698.9
              .E94
              1992


             EXEMPLARY NATURAL HABITATS WITHIN
       MARYLAND'S COASTAL CORRIDOR STUDY AREA

                 FINAL REPORT:  TASK 3






















              NEOTROPICAL MIGRATORY SONGBIRD REGI0NAL
                            COASTAL CORRIDOR STUDY

                                       Prepared by:
                        Maryland Natural Heritage Program
                          Department of Natural Resources

                                      June 1992








               A report of the Virginia Council on the Environment to the
               National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration pursuant to
                             NOAA Award No. NA90AA-H-CZ839



















                          EXEMPLARY NATURAL HABITATS OF

                        MARYLAND'S COASTAL CORRIDOR STUDY AREA




                                 FINAL REPORT: TASK 3







                                     Submitted to:

                     Virginia Coastal Resources Management Program
                              Council on the Environment
                           903 Ninth Street.Office Building
                               Richmond, Virginia 23219



                                     Prepared by:

                           Maryland Natural Heritage Program
                            Department of Natural Resources
                            Tawes State Office Building, El
                              Annapolis, Maryland 21401




                                       June 1992
                                                     U   DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NOAA
                                                     COASTAL SERVICES CENTER
                                                     2234 SOUTH HOBSON AVENUE
                                                     ChARLESTON , SC 29405-2413


      Its-
      TE:

                            This paper is  funded in part by a grant from the
                            National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
                            The views expressed herein are those of the
                            author(s) and  do not necessarily reflect the
                            views of NOAA  or any of its sub-agencies.
               6'qu
               "VToi

                                        Property of CSC Library






























                                         CONTENTS



          INTRODUCTION   ...............................................



          EXEMPLARY NATURAL HABITATS - PROTECTION AREA SUMMARIES


                     Campground Branch    ................................      4

                     E.A. Vaughn WMA Woodland    .........................      6

                     Hancock Creek Swamp   ...............................      8
                     Pawpaw Creek  ......................................     10

                     Pikes Creek   ......................................     13

                     Porter Neck Bog  ...................................     15

                     Powell Creek   .....................................     17

                     Scotts Landing Pond  ......4 ........................    19

                      wans Gut Marsh  ...................................     22


                     Tanhouse Creek  .........................  I ..........  24

                     West Ocean City Pond    .............................    26


           REFERENCES  ..................................................     28














                                     INTRODUCTION





               This report is a preliminary asse ssment of exemplary natural
          habitats within Maryland's coastal corridor. These sites are
          identified as Geographic Areas of Particular Concern,(GAPC) in
          conjunction with with Maryland's Coastal Zone Management Program.
          The prelimina'ry assessment provides a foundation for further
          analysis of natural communities in the Coastal Bay watershed of
          Maryland. Recent public concern with land use and interest in
          growth management in this region emphasize the need for more
          complete assessment of the status of natural communities. Such
          an assessment is essential to developing scientifically sound
          land use guidelines that will protect the most significant
          natural habitats of the region.

               Exemplary natural habitats were identified based upon the
          following criteria:

               1.   Site contains species which  are considered by the
                    Maryland Natural Heritage Program as Rare,
                    Threatened or Endangered in Maryland (see Norden,
                    et al, 1984). Many of these species are listed in
                    the revised Department of Natural Resource's
                    Regulations under COMAR .08.03.08.

               2.   Site contains.one or more rare or ecologically unique
                    natural communities.

               3.   Overall ecologic integrity of the site.is high.
                    Unnatural disturbances must be minimal or must be suc  h
                    that their effects simulate natural forces of
                    disturbance.

               4.   ruman-induced threats which could lead to the loss of
                    the rare species or habitat(s) must be minimal.

               5.   Regulation and monitoring must be feasible so that
                    actions (both on-site and nearby) can be limited to
                    those that do.not negatively impact the rare species
                    and natural habitat(5). Required buffer zones must be
                    available to ensure site protection.

               6.   Ecologic, scenic, or historic values other than those
                    related to rare species and habitat protection may be
                    present.









              Each exemplary natural habitat is reviewed in a Protection
          Area Summary (PAS) that describes the.protection area, its
          values, and its protection needs. The PAS is composed of several
          parts, each of which is discussed below.- Format and content are
          best understood with the insight provided in this section.

          Protection Area Name - An identifying name has been assigned to
          each protection ar'ea. This is usually based on the site's
          location and/or habitat type.

          County - The county in which the protect ion area is located is
          given.


          USGS Quad(s) - Identifies the United States Geological Survey
          topographic map(s) on which the protection area occurs.

          SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE - states the major reasons for
          protecting the site. The features of greatest ecological
          significance are described, such as the presence of rare species
          or unique habitat.


          OTHER SIGNIFICANCE AND VALUES - This section describes other
          important aspects of the protection area. often the habitat is
          the focus because the habitat in which most rare species are
          found is also rare.

               The value of the protection.area to wildlife and for
          ecosystem maintenance may also be discussed. In setting aside
          rare species habitat (which includes additional buffer land), a
          safe haven is provided for wildlife and for the perpetuation of
          naturally functioning ecosystem processes.

               Many of the proposed protection areas are adjacent to or
          part of designated management areas. They may overlap with or
          abut upon State Forests or Parks, State Scenic Rivers, Natural
          Heritage Areas or Nature,Conservancy protection areas. By
          increasing1the size and/or protection of these areas, their
          ecologic and scenic values may be enhanced.

          THREATS AND MANAGEMENT NEEDS - Both potential and current threats
          to the rare species or to the natural habitat are described.
          These are generally related to human-induced habitat alterations,
          such as forest cutting, hydrologic alteration, vehicular traffic,
          or powerline maintenance practices. In some cases, however,
          there are natural threats such as insect infestation or natural
          succession.

               Specific management recommendations are then given.
          Voluntary management agreements are often suggested. In some
          cases, monitoring of rare species populations is recommended.

                                          2











          Such studies are needed in order to-learn more about the
          demographics and ecological requirements of the rare plants and
          to provide warnings of serious population declines.

          BOUNDARY RECOMMENDATIONS   The proposed protection area is
          delineated by a line termed the protection area boundary. The
          habitats to be included within this boundary are described and
          the reasons for their inclusion are given. Within this boundary
          the threats listed in the previous section should be avoided to
          protect the significant habitat and rare species.

               Within the protection area boundary, a buffer has been
          placed around the core rare species habitat. This zone consists
          of adjacent land needed to protect the critical habitat from the
          impacts of land use in surrounding areas. When the critical
          habitat is a wetland, lands which drain into it may be included
          as buffer. Surrounding forest may be designated for many
          reasons. These include maintaining canopy cover to prevent the
          invasion of weedy or exotic species, stabilizing soils to prevent
          sedimentation of waterways, filtering out chemicals or excess
          nutrients, and maintaining hydrology.

               The delineation of buffers varies depending on the habitat.'
          surrounding land use, protection of the species and its habitat,
          local hydrology, and possible future threats. Reasonable and
          effective buffers were determined after careful consideration of
          these factors.

               Maps and additional information concerning boundary
          locations are available from the Maryland Natural Heritage
          Program.

          SITE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY - Finally, a general  description of the
          protection area is given. Each of the natural communities is
          discussed and its relationship to surrounding communities is
          described. often the hydrologic regime of the community and the
          range of seasonal variability of water table depth are provided'.
          Dominant tIrees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants are listed.
               Note: Common names for species are used throughout the
          Protection Area Summary except when no common name is available.
          When a specific species is named, the common name is capitalized.










                                          3












                               PROTECTION AREA SUMMARY



          Protection Area Name: Campground Branch

          County: Worcester                    USGS Quad: Public Landing



          SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE:

               This bottomland hardwood forest contains three plant species
          that are rare in Maryland. Two of the species are known from
          fewer than ten sites in Maryland, and none of these sites is
          protected. The populations of all three rare species are large
          and widespreadwithin the forest.

               In addition there is little evidence of recent, unnatural
          disturbance of the habitat. This Red Maple and Oak-dominated
          swamp forest is an excellent example of the now uncommon mature
          bottomland hardwood forest.



          OTHER VALUES AND SIGNIFICANCE:

               Many of the Red Maples and oaks inhabiting the forest are
          quite large. Because such trees are usually harvested before
          @hey reach this size, old growth forest communities are becoming
          increasingly difficult to find in Maryland. Old growth provides
          habitat for specialized birds and insects which require dead or
          aging trees for food and shelter.

               Because the forest is old and the only recent  disturbance
          has been natural blowdown, the trees are well spaced. The canopy
          is broken in a number of places bringing in light, which, along
          with a fairly open understory, makes it an unusual habitat.



          THREATS AND MANAGEMENT NEEDS:


          Threats


               The major thr eat to this protection area is forest cutting.
          The trees are large, and because many of them are oaks they would
          provide valuable timber. Any logging activity would destroy the
          high quality 'of this mature forest. Non-native, weedy species
          invade the disturbed canopy openings, often to the exclusion of
          native plants. In addition, logging practices often alter local
          hydrology, which alters the species composition of the wetland.

               A second threat comes from nearby agricultural lands.
          Fertilizers, farm chemicals, and weedy, non-nativ6 plants that
          invade cultivated fields must be prevented from impinging upon

                                          4









          the swamp forest. Such pollutants and plant invaders could
          endanger the health of the more fragile species.
          Management Needs

               Forest cutting and hydrologic alteration should be
          prohibited within the protection area boundary. Plans for
          ditching or drainage of land surrounding the protection area
          should be reviewed for potential effects on the rare species'
          populations.



          BOUNDARY RECOMMENDATIONS:

              The protection area boundary includes the floodplain of
          Campground Branch and is bordered by roads to the north and
          south. This is the portion of the creek which contains old
          growth forest and the rare sedges. A forested zone on either
          side of the floodplain is included as buffer and as habitat for
          forest interior dwelling wildlife. It extends to the crest of
          the surrounding upland. The creek's headwaters and tributaries
          are also protected by a forested buffer, ensuring high water
          quality downstream.



          SITE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY:

              This 230 acre protection area encompasses the floodplain of
          Campground Branch near its headwaters. At its origins, the creek
          flows -in a southerly direction, but it soon turns and flows
          northward. It passes through two culverts under a road to the
          north. The bottbmland is about 300 ft. wide and lies 10 ft.
          below the surrounding upland. The swamp forest is dominated by
          mature hardwoods, including Basket Oak and Red Maple. The trees
          are large and well spaced, creating an open forest. Understory
          vegetation consists of fetterbush and blueberry shrubs, several
          species of fern (which are quite dense in some places), and
          patches of grasses and sedges. The rare species inhabit forest
          openings created by natural tree blowdowns..















                                          5










                               PROTECTION AREA.SUMMARY


         Protection Area Name: E. A. V  aughn WMA Woodland

         County: Worcester                           USGS Quad: Girdletree



         SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE:

               The Ei A. Vaughn WMA Woodland Protection Area contains a
         large, mature, deciduous forest and swamp with one of Maryland's
         five populations of a rare plant species. This population is
         large and is widespread through the swamp forest. The presence
         of immature plants as well as mature, flowering plants indicates
         that the population is stable. The forest also supports many
         species which are otherwise very uncommon on the lower Delmarva
         peninsula.



         OTHER VALUES AND SIGNIFICANCE:

               The upland, old growth forest and adjacent bottomland
         hardwood forest provide diverse habitats for forest interior
         dwelling birds, reptiles, and amphibians.

         THREATS AND MANAGE MENT NEEDS:


         Threats

               Logging within the protection area boundary is the biggest
         threat to the rare species inhabiting this site. If logging
         occurs upstream, hydrological disturbance to the  stream could be
         detrimental to this wetland species. Logging the upland buffer
         would allow weed species to establish and potentially exclude the
         rare species and other native f.lora. Logging within the
         population boundary would physically destroy the rare plants.

         ManagementlNeeds

               If logging is avoided, no special management is needed to
         protect the site. The size and reproductive success of the rare
         species population should be monitored.

         BOUNDARY RECOMMENDATIONS:

            . The protectiori area boundary contains the entire population
         of the rare species, the upstream forested areas, and the
         adjacent uplands as buffer. Within this boundary, active
         disturbances and the threats mentioned above should be avoided.




                                          6














          SITE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY:

               This 65 acre area encompasses a portion of the south fork of
          Scarboro Creek.  Thousands of plants of the rare species are
          found within 100 yds. of the nearby road and extend downstream
          500 yds., always within 50 yds. of the forested bottomland. Old
          growth forest is adjacent to the forested bottomland, but,has
         .been clearcut in one section north of the stream 500 yds. from
          the road. Tulip  Tree is abundant near the stream and less common
          on the upland, where oaks-and Loblolly Pine are more common.
          Vernal pools occur in some sections of the upland forest and
          provide habitat for amphibians.






































                                           7












                               PROTECTION AREA SUMMARY



          Protection Area Name: Hancock Creek Swamp

          County: Worcester                          USGS Quad: Girdletree



          SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE:

               This large, mature, deciduous forest and swamp contains
          three rare plant species. one species is known from just four
          other locations in Maryland. This population is very large and
          appears to be reproducing successfully. The forest is also
          inhabited by many other species which are otherwise very uncommon
          on the lower Delmarva peninsula. A fourth rare plant species has
          been reported from this site but was not observed in 1987.



          OTHER VALUES AND SIGNIFICANCE:

               The upland hardwood forest and deciduous swamp forest
          provide diverse habitats for forest interior dwelling birds,
          reptiles, and amphibians.


          THREATS AND MANAGEMENT NEEDS:


          Threats

               Logging within the protection area boundary ig the   biggest
          threat to the rare species. Due to severe disturbance to the
          habitat, canopy openings created by logging are usually invaded
          by non-native, weedy species. These weeds may exclude the rare
          species from the site. In addition, hydrological disturbance
          caused by logging upstream may alter the wetland habitat
          sufficiently to eliminate the rare wetland species. Logging
          activity within the population of the rare-species would destroy
          individuallplants of this species.

          Management Needs

               As long as logging is avoided, no special management is
          needed to protect the site. The rare species' populations should
          be monitored regularly.

               The informal agreement established by The  Nature Conservancy
          with the landowner should be maintained in order to.promote
          cooperation in protecting this site.


           BOUNDARY RECOMMENDATIONS:


                                          8








               The'protdc'tion area boundary contains the entire population
          of the rare species with the upstream forested areas, and the
          adjacent uplands included as buffer. Within this boundary,
          active disturbances and the threats mentioned above should be
          avoided.



          SITE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY:


               This 25 acre protection area is adjacent to the eastern
          shoulder of Gree'nbackville Road along Hancock Creek. Descriptive
          information was provided by the staff of The Nature Conservancy.
          Heading east from the crossing of the road, the creek flows
          through a mature, deciduous swamp.. The trees include Tulip Tree
          (primarily), Red Maple, oaks, and Loblolly Pine. On the south.
          side of the swamp, an old-growth upland woods occurs. One rare
          species inhabits a seepage area between this upland and the
          swamp. A second rare species occurs along the stream and extends
          downstream about 300 yards. At this'point logging has occurred
          and the rare species has been eliminated.
































                                          9












                               PROTECTION AREA SUMMARY



          Protection Area Name: Pawpaw Creek

          County:   Worcester                USGS Quad: Public Landing


          SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE:


               A steep, north-facing bluff adjacent to Pawpaw Creek
          supports a vigorous population of  a rare plant species. This
          plant is found at only four Sites  in Maryland, and is at the
          northeastern limit of its range.   Another rare species inhabits
          low areas bordering a nearby pine  forest. In addition, the
          aspect and steepness of the bluff  along the creek provide habitat
          for other species that are uncommon on the Delmarva Peninsula.



          OTHER VALUES AND SIGNIFICANCE:

               Bluffs as high as 25 ft. line the creek, exhibiting a degree
          of topographic relief unusual for the lower coastal plain.
          Several seeps are present and these, as well as the steep slopes,
          support rich vegetation more characteristic of the Piedmont. A
          diversity of wildflowers carpet the forest in spring.


          THREATS AND MANAGEMENT NEEDS:


          Threats

               The streamside community is a relatively natural one, not
          highly impacted by man. The major potential threat is a decline
          in water qua7lity as a result of upstream agricultural runoff or
          forest.cutting. One rare Plant population is also subject to a
          more specific threat: erosion of the bluff it inhabits.      Because
          the slope is undercut, it is highly subject to slumping. The
          forested b@iffer will help to prevent erosion from rain and wind.
          High spring river flow will continue'to erode the bluff from
          below and create new habitat that may be colonized by the rare
          species.

               The other rare plant population is threatened by use of the
          now abandoned forest roads. This rare plant grows in the roadway
          and any vehicular traffic would destroy it.







                                          10











          Management Needs

               Nearby land-use activities should be monitored for potential
          effects on the watershed. This would ensure high water quality.
          In addition, large-scale cutting of the pine forest should be
          avoided. instead, handcutting or pruning of nearby trees and
          shrubs would help to promote the population by providing light
          for the bog community.



          BOUNDARY RECOMMENDATIONS:

               The protection area boundary includes each of the rare plant
          populations and a buffer. Pawpaw Creek east of the road and the
          surrounding richly vegetated bluffs represent the core of the
          protection area. By protecting them, the unique streamside
          community may be preserved. The old forest roads which support
          the other rare species and the adjacent woods which drain into
          them are a second area of concern which should remain
          undisturbed. A forested buffer around the upstream area of
          Pawpaw Creek is incorporated to ensure the maintenance of water
          quality.



          SITE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY:


               The steep slopes that border Pawpaw Creek are the features
          of greatest ecological significance in this 175 acre protection
          area. This small creek originates at 40 ft. in elevation and
          travels eastward, quickly dropping to sea level to enter
          Chincoteague Bay at Public Landing. The middle section of the
          creek has numerous meanders and, although water flow may be high
          in the winter and spring (a result of the bluffs which
          concentrate runoff from the surrounding forest), the creek dries
          in the summer.


               Once reaching an elevation of about 5 ft., the creek opens
          out into a small swamp, soon reaching its tidal limit. The
          surroundin@ forest is fairly dry in the uplands, consisting
          mainly of Red Maple, oaks, dogwood, Tulip Poplar, Sassafras,.and
          hickory. It becomes slightly wetter near the stream. The steep
          bluffs (which are unusual in the coastal plain) provide habitat
          for plants more common in the Piedmont. These include Bloodroot,
          Enchanter's Nightshade, grape fern and Wild Geranium. In a few
          spots the river channel undercuts the stream bank, creating
          overhangs up to 12 ft. high.

               South of the creek are several forested tracts being managed
          commercially. The vegetation is predominantly 20 year-old pines,
          with'a dense, shrubby understory. A network of old, overgrown









          roads laces the area. In low-lying, boggy spots sphagnum moss,
         grasses, and sedges dominate.

              Descriptive information was obtained from field surveys
         conducted prior to 1987. Current aerial photographs were
         examined to update the existing survey data.













































                                         12












                              PROTECTION AREA SUMMARY



          Protection Area Name: Pikes Creek

          County: Worcester                         USGS Quad: Girdletree


          SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE:


               The bottomland hardwood forest supports one of the
          Maryland's five populations of a rare plant species. All of
          these populations occur on streambanks in Worcester Cou'nty. The
          population is large and extends over 5 acres of the forest. The
          forest also contains many species which are otherwise very
          uncommon on the lower Delmarva peninsula. Due to drainage and
          clearing, mature bottomland hardwood forest are increasingly
          uncommon on the Eastern Shore.



          OTHER VALUES AND SIGNIFICANCE:

               This hardwood swamp forest provides habitat for forest
          interior dwelling birds, amphibians, and reptiles.



          THREATS AND MANAGEMENT NEEDS:


          Threats

               Logging within the protection area boundary is the biggest
          threat to the rare species at this site. Due to severe
          disturbance to the habitat, canopy openings created by logging
          are usually invaded by non-native, weedy species. These weeds
          may exclude the rare species from the site. In addition,
          hydrological disturbance caused by logging upstream may alter the
          wetland habitat sufficiently to eliminate the rare species.
          Logging activity within the rare species' population would
          destroy inpividual plants of this species.

          Management Needs

               If logging is avoided, no special management is needed to
          protect the site. The size and reproductive success of the rare
          species' population should be monitored.



          BOUNDARY RECOMMENDATIONS:

               The protection area boundary contains the entire population
          of the rare species, the upstream forested areas, and the
          adjacent uplands'as buffer. Within this boundary, active

                                         13










         disturbances and the threats mentioned above should be avoided.


         SITE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY:

              This 65 acre protection area encompasses a portion of the
         floodplain of Pikes Creek. The Creek is forested on both sides
         with mature Tulip Tree and Red Maple. The first 100 yds. next to
         a state road are very weedy as are the edges of the forest about
         200-500 ft. from the stream channel. The rare species population
         occurs along the stream banks about 200 yds from the road and
         extends for about 400 yds. A few mature Bald Cypress are also in
         this area. Beyond the population an elevated earthen dike runs
         perpendicular to the stream.

              Descriptive information was obtained from field surveys
         conducted prior to 1987. Current aerial photographs were
         examined to update the existing survey data.



































                                         14












                                PROTECTION AREA SUMMARY



          Prote ction Area Name: Porter Neck Bog

          County: Worcester              USGS Quads: Berlin, Ninepin Branch


          SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE:

               Porter Neck Bog Protection Area is a densely forested
          wetland which, -at its margins and in slightly wetter areas,
          contains three species of rare plants. one species is known from
          only one other site in Maryland. A fourth rare plant species was
          recorded at this site in 1982 but was not observed in 1987. it
          too has been found in only one other site in Maryland. Because
          the species is known to remain dormant for several years at a
          time, and because its habitat has been maintained, there is a
          good chance that it still occurs1here.


          OTHER VALUES AND SIGNIFICANCE:

               This pine-hardwood swamp forest provides habitat for
          amphibians, reptiles, and forest interior dwelling birds.


          THREATS AND MANAGEMENT NEEDS:


          Threats

               Disruption of the local hydrology threatens the survival of
          the rare, wetland species. Woody vegetation is encroaching upon
          the herbaceous openings inhabited by rare species. If this
          continues, the populations of rare species may be eliminated.

               Trampling is also a threat to these plants. one rare plant
          .species occurs close to the road in an open sandy spot which is
          easily acc@ssible. This area seems to be used as a trailhead for
          hunters.


                    Another threat is forest clearing, either for
          agricultural or residential purposes. The latter seems more
          likely since the land across the street has been recently sub-
          divided into house lots, and a proposal has been made to do the
          same on the protection area side.

          Managem nt Needs

               Management needs include maintaining some open areas for the
          rare plant occurring near the road since it thrives in sandy
          swamps,and ditches with'little or no forest canopy. Hand pruning

                                           15










           of trees and shrubs would be most effective,and is currently
           being practiced at this site. Local hydrology should be
           monitored to determine if groundwater is being depleted. This
           study may produce recommendations concerning local ditching.



           BOUNDARY RECOMMENDATIONS:


               The protection area boundary consists of the forested swamp
           bordered by roads.on either side as well as adjacent upland. The
           dry upland forest, which is located on sandy soils, is included
           because it serves as a groundwater recharge area for the swamp.
           Protecting forest cover would maintain water quality and flow.


           SITE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY:.

               The majority of this 175 acre protection area is forested
           wetland containing a mixed pine-hardwood forest. Dominant
           species include Red Maple, Sweet Gum, Loblolly Pine, Black Gum,
           American Holly, Sweet Pepperbush and blueberry. At the northern
           border is Bassett Creek, a brackish creek which was once
           impounded (Bassett Millpond) and which drains into Chincoteague
           Bay. To the east (outside the protection area) are open sand
           mines.

                Two rare plant species grow among sphagnum moss and ferns in
           the wettest areas near the origins of two tributaries into Porter
           Creek. The soils have-a surface layer of peat over sandy
           subsoil.   Near the headwaters of the western tributary, an open
           pond approximately 1/2 acre in size has been created. It drains
           into a narrow, wooded channel for about 50 ft. before reaching a
           culvert at the road.

                The other boggy stream origin is slightly more open and is
           used as a path by hunters. It opens out to the roadside where
           another rare plant species is found. other dominant plants
           include supdew, bog clubmoss, St. John's-wort, Colicroot, and
           other wetlhnd species that do well in sandy soils that are
           alternately very wet or very dry. At wetter times of year there
           may be standing water here and in the adjacent roadside ditch
           which drains into a culvert under the road. South of the road
           the creek surfaces into an open tidal channel.

                Descriptive information was obtained from field    surveys
           conducted prior to 1987. Current aerial photographs     were
           examined to update the existing survey data.






                                            16












                               PROTECTION AREA SUMMARY



          Protection Area Name: Powell Creek

          County: Worcester                          USGS Quad: Girdletree



          SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE:


               The Powell Creek Protection Area contains a mature deciduous
          forest and swa'mp with one of the State's five populations of a
          rare plant species. Approximately 3,000 plants of this species
          were observed. The presense of immature plants as well as
          mature, fruiting plants indicates that the population is
          successfully reproducing and stable..

               The forest has many species which are otherwise very
          uncommon on the lower Delmarva peninsula. Several of the
          observed species, such as Wood Anenome and Mayapple, require
          circumneutral soil which is uncommon in this region.


          OTHER VALUES AND SIGNIFICANCE:.

               The hardwood swamp forest and adjacent upland forest provide
          diverse habitats for reptiles and amphibians *  In addition, two
          forest interior dwelling birds, Red-eyed Vireo and Prothonetary
          Warbler, were.observed in the forest.



          THREATS AND MANAGEMENT NEEDS:


          Threats.

               Logging.within the protection area boundary is the biggest
          threat to the rare species at this site. Due to severe
          disturbance and increased sunlight, canopy openings created by
          logging aro usually invaded by non-native, weedy species. These
          weeds may exclude the rare species from the site. In addition,
          hydrological disturbance caused by logging upstream may alter the
          wetland habitat sufficiently to eliminate this rare species.
          Logging within the rare species' population would destroy
          individual plants of this species.

          Management Needs

               If logging is avoided, no special management is needed to
          protect the site. The population size and reproductive success
          of the rare species should be monitored.



                                          17














          BOUNDARY RECOMMENDATIONS:

              The protection area boundary contains the rare species'
          population, the upstream forested areas, and the adjacent
          uplands as buffer. Within this boundary, active disturbances and
          the threats mentioned above should be avoided.



          SITE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY:


               This 55 acre protection area encompasses part of Powell
          creek. The creek runs north/south and is forested along most of
          its length. At the State border, the stream valley is overgrown
          with large patches of greenbrier. About 100 yds. upstream, the
          shrub layer thins and many interesting wetland herbs occur,
          including Wood Anemone, Green Woodland orchid, Chain Fern, Jack-
          in-the-pulpit, Cowbane, and Turtlehead. The rare species occurs
          among these wetland herbs. Shrubs seen here include Spicebush
          and Swamp Withe-rod. Trees include Red Maple and Tulip Tree. A
          large old-growth Beech forest is adjacent to the west side of the
          stream valley. The rare species' population extends up the
          stream valley for another 500 yds.

               Descriptive inform ation was obtained from field surveys
          conducted prior to 1987. Current aerial photographs were
          examined to update the existing survey data.












                               PROTECTION AREA SUMMARY



          Protection Area Name: Scotts Landing Pond

          County: Worcester                   USGS Quad: Boxiron



          SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE:



               Scotts Landing Pond is a one-acre seasonal pond. Seasonal
          ponds are centripetally-drained, non-tidal wetlands and are
          considered unique natural communities because they are the only
          remaining naturally open freshwater wetlands on the interior of
          the Coastal Plain. These ponds are highly threatened because
          they are easily affected by agricultural drainage or other
          hydrological disturbances.

               This particular seasonal pond is unusual in that it very
          rarely dries'out. As a result, it is used as a year-round
          feeding site by many types of birds'and other forms of wildlife.

               Three rare herbaceous plant species inhabit this protection
          area. Two rare plants grow in the swampy woods adjacent to the
          seasonal pond. A third rare sp .ecies grows at the edges of the
          pond. This species is known from fewer than 10 locations in
          Maryland.


          OTHER VALUES AND SIGNIFICANCE:

               The pond also supports a variety of reptiles and amphibians.
          One of these is the Red-spotted Newt (Notophthalmus viridescens
          viridescens). The form found here is unusual in that it does not
          pass through the land stage (red eft) but remains aquat 'ic
          throughout its life cycle, becoming sexually mature in the larval
          stage.

               The salt marsh on the eastern side of the protection area
          provides nutrients for large numbers of invertebrates which form
          the basis of aquatic food chains.



          THREATS AND MANAGEMENT NEEDS:


          Threats

               Alteration of the local hydrology could eliminate the rare
          species. The salt marsh has been ditched to control mosquitoes.
          As a result of these ditches, the water table may decline in the
          wetland forest and shrubs may encroach and exclude the rare

                                          19









           herbaceous species. A ditch currently drains the pond. If this
           ditch is maintained, it could eventually lower the water table
           sufficiently to allow the establishment of woody species.within
           the pond.

                Logging would threaten the survival of the rare plant
           species. Due to severe disturbance to the habitat, canopy
           openings created by logging are usually invaded by non-native,
           weedy species. Near the openings, the additional light promotes
           the growth of shrubs and vines. These weedy species and shrubs
           could exclude the rare species.

           Management Needs

                The natural hydrology of the protection area should be
           restored and maintained. Existing drainage ditches have begun to
           fill with sediment. The process of sedimentation of the ditches
           near the protection area should be allowed to continue, so that
           no further draining of the wetland forest takes place.

                No removal of forest vegetation should occur within the
           protection area. One of the rare plant species requires a closed
           tree canopy with-few shrubs in the understory.


           BOUNDARY RECOMMENDATIONS:

                The protection area boundary enconpasses the seasonal pond,
           the surrounding wetland forest containing the rare species, and a
           forested'buffer. The buffer includes the forested area which
           drains into the pond. It also incorporates the stream east of
           the pond and its salt marsh borders, in order to prevent further
           disruption of the hydrology of the protected wetlands.


           SITE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY:

                Scotts Landing Pond Protection Area is a 55 acre site
           containinq a one-acre, open water, seasonal pond.surrounded by a
           forested wetland. The perimeter of the pond is vegetated with
           sedges and shrubs such as blueberry, American Holly, and Wax
           Myrtle. The dominant soil type near the pond, and in the wetland
           forest to the north and east, is termed mixed alluvial land.
           This soil has been washed out from adjacent streams and is
           composed of a well-mixed combination of acidic sand, silt And
           clay.

                Surrounding the pond is a mixed pine-hardwood forest which
           is drained by several creeks flowing eastward into the bay. It
           is dominated by Sweet Gum, Red Maple, and Loblolly Pine and has
           an herbaceous understory consisting mainly of ferns, Partridge
           Berry, and Poison Ivy. In some areas it is quite swampy,

                                             20









          providing good habitat for the rare plant species. A shrubby
          swale in the woods south of the pond supports Whorled Water-
          Pennywort. Footpaths run from the road west of the pond, around
          the pond, and to the salt marsh to the east.

               To the east of the swamp forest is a major stream surrounded
          by-a narrow band of salt marsh dominated by cattails and
          cordgrasses. The marsh has been ditched to control mosquitoes,
          and is contiguous with an extensive salt marsh south and east of
          the protection area.









































                                         21













                                PROTECTION AREA SUMMARY



           Preserve Name: Swans Gut Marsh

           County: Worcester                        USGS Quad: Girdletree

           SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE:


                The brackish and fresh tidal marshes of Swans Gut harbor nine
           rare and uncommon plant species. Within the protection area there
           has been very little direct disturbance and the marsh includes
           excellent exampl.es of brackish and fresh tidal plant communities.
           Groundwater seepage from adjacent slopes provides regular fresh
           water to isolated fresh tidal wetlands along Swans Gut.        These
           Unusual groundwater-fed wetlands support the State's only known
           population of a plant species in the sedge family.     This is the
           first report of this plant species in Maryland.

           THREATS AND MANAGEMENT NEEDS:


           Threats

                The major threat to the rare plants and. to the marsh is
           cutting of the forest around Swans Gut.      Canopy removal would
           contribute to erosion and sedimentation of the marsh and creek.
           Activities farther upstream would be less likely to have an effect
           on this tidal community because the dam at Big Mill Pond traps
           sediment there.


                A second threat is the excavation of ditches to drain
           agricultural fields in the uplands.      The introduction of farm
           chemicals via such ditches or along natural gullies would be
           deleterious to the fragile species of the marsh.

           Management Needs
                No sfecific management practices are current  ly required.-

           BOUNDARY RECOMMENDATIONS:

                The protection area consists of the creek, the marsh, and the
           surrounding upland from the upstream impoundment at Big Millpond to
           the Maryland-Virginia border. This stretch comprises the entire
          .tidal section'of Swans Gut within Maryland. The zone of forested
           upland covers approximately 500 feet on either side from the marsh
           edge, but extends farther up around gullies and tributaries which
           drain into Swans Gut.





                                            22













           SITE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY:


                Swans Gut is the continuation of Little Mill Run below its
           impoundment at Big Millpond. It is tidal along its entire length;
           within Maryland, its waters are brackish. It receives fresh water
           from the millpond and from Bunn Ditch, which enters from the
           northeast. Along the edges on both sides of the creek is brackish
           marsh (up to 100 ft. wide in places) that harbors several rare
           species.   The dominant vegetation of the marsh center is Rose
           Mallow, Threesquare, cattails, cordgrasses, and Spikegrass. Small,
           isolated fresh tidal marshes border the brackish marshes in areas
           where groundwater seepage contributes a large perennial supply of
           freshwater to the wetland. Several rare sedges and a rare grass
           inhabit these fresh tidal marshes.

                The upland hillsides are forested, very quickly     rising to a
           level of 25 ft. above the marsh.        It is, however, the border
           between marsh and upland which is most interesting botanically.
           Along with the four recorded rare plants, the vegetation is a mix
           of wetland and-rich woods species. The dominant trees are pine and.
           Red Maple, but White Oak, Sassafrast Red Cedar, American Holly,
           Sweetbay Magnolia, Black Gum and Bald Cypress are also seen.
           Shrubs include Sweet Pepperbush, blueberry, and viburnum; while
           herbaceous vegetation consists of ferns, grasses, and weedy species
           such as Virginia creeper, greenbrier and Poison Ivy. The latter
           may be invading from farmland located at the crest of the upland,
           approximately 500-600 ft. from the creek.

























                                             23














                               PROTECTION AREA SUMMARY



          Protection Area Name: Tanhouse Creek

          County: Worcester                  USGS Quad: Public'Landing


          SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE:

               Within the protection area, a large swamp forest supports
          one of the State's five populations a rare plant species.    This
          floristically diverse forest supports numerous plant species not
          typical of the lower coastal plain. The relief along the creek
          is unusual for this'region. The plants found here are more
          common in the Piedmont and upper coastal plain, and indicate
          rich, well-drained soils.



          OTHER VALUES AND SIGNIFICANCE:

               The protection area includes a small section of brackish
          tidal marsh. Such marshland is exceptionally productive,
          supporting numerous invertebrates which form the basis of the
          food chain. In addition, the swamp and adjacent upland forest
          provide habitat for forest interior dwelling birds.



          THREATS AND MANAGEMENT NEEDS:


          Threats

               Forest cutting is a significant threat to  this natural
          community. It would eliminate the rich woods habitat and,
          because of the steep (i.e., for the coastal plain) bluffs, would
          cause sedimentation of the stream. In fact, some siltation is
          already visible in the stream in areas adjacent to agricultural
          fields. Uncontrolled soil erosion, as well as runoff of farm
          chemicals and fertilizers, would reduce water quality and harm
          the rare species' habitat in the lowest, wettest areas. In
          addition, non-native, weedy species invade openings created by
          logging. These weeds may exclude the rare species from the   site.

          Management Needs

               Forest cutting should be avoided. In addition, agricultural
          runoff should be diverted away from the,creek. Agreements with
          local landowners should be arranged in order to implement these
          management recommendations.



                                          24
















          BOUNDARY RECOMMENDATIONS:

               The protection area boundary surrounds the forested upland
          zones as well as the low swamp forest. It extends to
          agricultural lands that drain into the tributaries which form the
          headwaters of Tanhouse Creek. Including these ensures protection
          of downstream water quality. At the lower end, the boundary runs
          for about 0.6 mile from the confluence of the two major
          tributaries. This section of the creek is undisturbed brackish
          marsh and provides habitat for numerous productive tidal marsh
          species. A buffer of forest on either side is also included
          here.



          SITE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY:

               The primary feature of ecological significance in this 250
          acre protection area is a forested wetland located at the
          headwaters of Tanhouse Creek. Its unique character results from
          the high degree of topographic variation: 35 ft. bluffs descend
          from an elevation of 40 ft. to the flat coastal plain. The creek
          originates from two narrow tributaries which flow from the
          uplands (which are now being fa rmed) and then descend quickly.
          At the base of the bluffs, the diverse herbaceous flora includes
          Toothwort, Bloodroot, Showy Orchis, Pennywort, Violet Wood
          Sorrel, Spring Beauty and Rattlesnake Fern. The canopy consists
          of several oak species, pine, dogwood, hickory and Tulip Poplar.
          The swamp below is dominated by Red Maple, Black Gum, Sweet Gum,
          ash, Sweet Pepperbush, fetterbush, American Holly, ferns, and
          Jack-in.-the-pulpit. It is in the wettest areas, among sphagnous
          hummocks along the creek, that the rare species is found. The
          forested wetland continues to the east but soon becomes a
          brackish tidal marsh as it approaches Chincoteague Bay. Emergent
          vegetation here is dominated by Smooth Cordgrass, Meadow
          Cordgrass, Carolina Sea Lavender, Spikegrass, Groundselbush and
          Marsh Elder.

               Descriptive information was obtained from field surveys
          conducted prior to 1987. Current aerial photographs were
          examined to update the existing survey data.










                                          25












                               PROTECTION AREA SUMMARY



          Protection Area Name: West ocean City Pond

          County: Worcester                  USGS Quad: Ocean City


          SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE:

               This large but shallow freshwater pond contains several rare
          aquatic plants that form large beds of submerged and emergent
          aquatic vegetation. This is the only State site for one of the
          rare species.

               In addition to providing habitat for the rare plant species,
          the West Ocean City Pond is a well-known stop-over for migrating
          and wintering waterfowl. The pond also provides a feeding
          grounds for resident herons, egrets, ibis, gulls, and terns.
          Waterfowl and fish find a rich food supply in the large aquatic
          plant beds.


          OTHER VALUES AND SIGNIFICANCE:

               Further investigation of the pond's rich aquatic flora  may
          yield the discovery of additional rare species, particularly
          during years of unusually low or high water levels. In addition,
          the pond is frequently used by birdwatchers who recognize the
          area as a good location to find coastal resident species as well
          as unusual vagrants.



          THREATS AND MANAGEMENT NEEDS:


          Threats

               Any removal of forested buffers or forested portions of the
          watershed tthreatens the wetland with siltation, shortening the
          lifespan of the pond. Eutrophic conditions could result if
          excessive fertilizer is used in nearby agricultural fields.

          Management Needs

               The present water level flux of this pond should be
          maintained in order to preserve the rare species. In addition,
          drastically altering water levels could eliminate many species.

               Logging should be prohibited within the protection area.




                                          26









               If signs of eutrophication are observed, a cooperative
          agreement with adjacent landowners should be established in order
          to minimize the use of fertilizers on adjacent fields.

          BOUNDARY RECOMMENDATIONS:

              .,The protection area boundary includes the pond, an upland
          buffer, and a small portion of the wooded watershed. Within this
          boundary, active disturbances and the threats mentioned above
          should be avoided.



          SITE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY:

               This 55 acre protection area encompasses West ocean city
          Pond, a large, artificial pond with a'thin forest buffer and a
          partially-forested watershed. At least 50% of the pond is an
          emergent wetland dominated by Angled Spikerush and a rare plant
          species known in Maryland only from this site. The deeper
          portions of the pond contain beds of aquatic vegetation,
          including an abundance of Hornwort. Willow is invading the
          shallow southern edge of the pond. Wildlife, particularly birds,
          are abundant. The aesthetic value of the pond is great.





























                                         27















                                     REFERENCES





               The following general references are provided as background
          material and suggested reading to supplement this report.

          Bartgis, R.L. 1986. Functional assessment of non-tidal
               wetlands., Natural Heritage.Program, Maryland Department of
               Natural Resources, Annapolis, MD. Unpublished report to the
               Coastal Resources Division.

          Fernald, M.L. 1970. Gray's manual of botany. Eighth ed.,
               corrected printing. D. Van Nostrand Co., New York.
               1632 pp.

          Gleason, H.A. 1952. The new   Britton and Brown illustrated flora
               of the northeastern United States and Canada. Vols. 1-3.
               Hafner Press, New York.

          Godfrey, R.K. and J.W. Wooten. 1979. Aquatic and wetland plants
               of Southeastern United States, Monocotyledons. Univ. of
               Georgia Press, Athens, GA. 712 pp.

                  1981. Aquatic and wetland plants of southeastern United
               States,.Dicotyledons. Univ., of Georgia Press, Atlanta, GA.
               933 pp.

          Hirst, F. -1983. Field report on the Delmarva flora, I.
               Bartonia 49: 59-68.

          Norden, A.W., D.C. Forester, and G.H. Fenwick, eds. 1984.
               .Threatened and endangered plants of Maryland. Natural
               Heritage Program Spec. Publ. 84-1. Maryland Department of
               NaturIal Resources, Annapolis, MD. 473 pp.
          Radford, A.E., H.E. Ahles, and C.R. Bell. 1968. Manual of the
               vascular flora of the Carolinas. Univ. of North Carolina
               Press, Chapel Hill, NC. 1183 pp.

          Tatnall, R.R. 1946. Flora.of Delaware and the Eastern Shore.
             . Sac. of Nat. Hist. of Delaware, Lancaster, PA. 313 pp.

          U.S.. Soil Conservation Service. Soil Survey. U.S. Gov. Printing
               Office, Washington, DC. (available for each Maryland
          county)




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