Guidelines for barrier beach management in Massachusetts a report of the Massachusetts Barrier Beach Task Force

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

Guide'lines for
113arrier Beach
Management. in Massachus'etts

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A Report of the'Massachusetts Barrier Beach Task Force
February 1994

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1994

G u i d e I i n e s
for Barrier Beach Management in Massachusetts

A Report of the Massachusetts Barrier Beach Task Force

rk C7- US Department of Commerce
<S- NOAA Coastal Sorviccc Center Library
2234 South Hobson Avenue
C-DI Charleston, SC 29405-2413
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Table of Contents PAGE
Foreword ............................................................................................................................I

Introduction .........................................................................................................................9

Goals .....................................................................................................................9
Understanding Barrier Beaches/Q&A ................................................................... 11

1. A Beach Manager's Guide to the Regulations ............................................................. 25
Definitions ............................................................................................................ 25

General Characteristics ........................................................................................ 27
Delineation of Barrier Margins ............................................................................. 30
Applicable Federal and State Laws ..................................................................... 31

2. Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act/Barrier Beach Resources ............................ 37

Barrier Beaches ................................................................................................... 39

Coastal Beaches and Tidal Flats ......................................................................... 40

Coastal Dunes ..................................................................................................... 44
Salt Marshes ........................................................................................................ 48
Land Containing ...................................................... 51
Land Under Salt Po6ds ........................................................................................ 55
Land Under Ocean .............................................................................................. 57
Protection of Rare Species Habitat ..................................................................... 60

3. Other Federal and State Statutes Applicable to Barrier Beaches ............................... 63
Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 ........................................................... 64
(16 United States Code 1531)
Mass. Endangered Species Act (Mass. General Laws Chapter 131 A) .............. 66
Mass. Historical Commission .............................................................................. 70

4. Public Use/Recreational Activities ............................................................................... 71
Pedestrian Uses, including Hunting, Fin and Shellfishing,
Kite4lying, Pets, and Hiking ..........................6...........6 .......................................... 72
Camping, Including Fires ...................................................................................... 77
Watercraft, Including Boats and Jet-skis ............................................................. 78
Plant Harvesting .................................................................................................. 81
Non-Motorized Transport, Including Horseback Riding and Bicycles .................. 82
Fireworks ...................................... ...................................................................... 84
Off-Road Vehicle Use .......................................................................................... 85

5. Restoration and Management Activities ........................................
.............................. 97
Erosion Control and Restoration Techniques ...................................................... 98
Dune and Beach Construction/Reconstruction .............................................. 98
Moving Beach Material ............................................................................... 111
Beach Cleaning ................................................................................................. 113
Stone and Cobble ....................................................................................... 113

Litter ............................................................................................................ 114

Wrack ......................................................................................................... 116
Salt Ponds ......................................................................................................... 118

Construction of Facilities ................................................................................... 119

Nuisance Control ............................................................................................... 122

Insects ........................................................................................................ 122

Exotic Plants ............................................................................................... 124
Rare Species Predators .................................................................................... 127
Other Wildlife Management Issues .................................................................... 129
Trash ................................................................................................................. 131

6. Public Education and Outreach ................................................................................. 133

Appendix A. Barrier Beaches in Massachusetts .......................................................... 145
Appendix B. Federal Coastal Barrier Resource System (COBRA)
Units in Massachusetts ............................................................................ 163
Appendix C. Beach Staging Areas for Migratory Shorebirds ........................................ 167
Appendix D. Off-Road Vehicles, Recommended Equipment and
Suggested Trail and Driving Guidelines ................................................... 173
Appendix E. Federal, State, Regional, and Municipal Laws ......................................... 177
Appendix F. State Environmental Agency Contacts .................................................... 183
Appendix G. Glossary ................................................................................................... 187
Appendix H. Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife "Guidelines for Managing
Recreational Use of Beaches to Protect Piping Plovers, Terns and
their Habitats in Massachusetts ................................................................ 195
Appendix 1. Mass Department of Environmental Protection
"Recommended Conditions for Barrier Beaches .. .................................... 211
Appendix J. Mass. Department of Environmental Protection "Wetlands Protection
Program Interim Policy 91-2: Criteria for Evaluating and
Permitting Openings of Salt Ponds in Order to Manage, Maintain or
Enhance Marine Fisheries .. ....................................................................... 221
Appendix K. Access for the Physically Challenged ...................................................... 227
Appendix L. Bibliography ............................................................................................. 233
Appendix M. Matrix ....................................................................................................... 265

List of Figures

Figure 1 : Types of barrier beaches ............................................................................. 10
Figure 2: Reconstruction of the growth of Sandy Neck ............................................... 12
Figure 3: Barrier island formation ............................................................................... 12
Figure 4: Mechanisms of sand transport ..................................................................... 14
Figure 5: Overwash surges and fans .......................................................................... 14
Figure 6: Barrier Beach Inventory Project map ........................................................... 17
Figure 7: Barrier environments .................................................................................... 26
Figure 8: Coastal dunes with beach grass .................................................................. 44
Figure 9: Salt marsh zonation for New England .......................................................... 48
Figure 10: Shellfish harvesting ...................................................................................... 52
Figure 11: Map of estimated habitats of
stale-listed rare wetlands wildlife ................................................................. 61
Figure 12: Barrier beach pedestrian closure for piping plovers ..................................... 74
Figure 13: Beach terminology diagram .......................................................... .............. 88
Figure 14: Fencing plan for piping plover nests ............................................................ 90
Figure 15: Types of barrier beach off-road vehicle closures ......................................... 94
Figure 16: Determining dune failure potential ............................................................. 102
Figure 17: Sample of warning sign for nesting area .................................................... 138
Figure 18: Sample of warning sign for seal pupping area. .......................................... 140

FOREWORD

On May 29, 1992, the Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management Office, the
Massachusetts Audubon Society and the Association for the Preservation of Cape
Cod co-sponsored a "Conservation of Our Barrier Beaches" Symposium in Brewster,
Mass. At the conclusion of the symposium, the co-sponsors resolved to explore some
of the outstanding and pressing questions and issues that had been raised and left
unanswered by symposium participants. With unanimous support, the co-sponsors,
along with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection which had
advocated for the formation of such a group with the Audubon Society since 1991,
established the Massachusetts Barrier Beach Task Force. Later that summer, an
agenda, schedule and membership list were drawn up by the co-sponsors and the
Department.

In addition to the Symposium resolution, other forces leading to the establishment of
the Task Force were:

* The federal government's addition to the U.S. Endangered Species List of
the piping plover;
9 The establishment of jurisdiction, under the Massachusetts Wetlands
Protection Act, over the use of off-road vehicles on barrier beaches at Nauset Beach
in the Town of Orleans; and
- The enactment of an Endangered Species Act by the Massachusetts
Legislature.

The Guidelines that follow are provided as a public service to those given
responsibility for implementing and complying with a myriad of federal, state, and
local laws relevant to barrier beaches. They are designed to serve as a reference tool
to those charged with the responsibility of preparing, reviewing, and implementing
barrier beach management plans. This reference book need not be read cover to

cover in order to be understood, although that effort is certainly encouraged. A
Matrix in the Appendix allows for quick and easy access to the most recent
interpretation of laws and how they apply to actual and potential barrier beach uses.

For each potential barrier beach use covered in this document, the Task Force has
provided a "Summary of Wetlands Protection Act Regulatory Performance Standards"
and prepared a set of "Recommended Management Measures" that may be
appropriate for your beach. All recommendations may not be suitable for all
areas. Each beach should be managed site-specificallyl Granted, there are
certain general principles that are relevant to the natural functioning and
management of all barrier beaches, however, the application of a particular
recommendation depends upon the individual circumstances of nature and
use. Local authorities may know these issues best and should tailor their
management plans accordingly. Beach managers and conservation
commissions should work together in this regard.

These Guidelines are intended to set barrier beach stewards headed in the direction
of responsible beach management. It is recognized that many beach management
issues will remain to be discussed and reviewed on a case-by-case basis with municipal
conservation commissions, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental
Protection, the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, and the managers themselves in
order to meet the standards of environmental law. The Task Force's intent is to
equip local beach managers in order for them to be proactive, rather than reactive,
in their management approach.

Beach managers should prepare barrier beach management plans and submit them to
their municipal conservation commissions as a Notice of Intent for review under the
Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and any relevant municipal wetlands
protection by-law or ordinance. The conservation commission can then issue an
Order of Conditions based on the elements of the plan within their jurisdiction.
Therefore, each barrier beach management plan in Massachusetts will be subject to
a full, legally advertised public hearing prior to any final approval.

We also recommend that the public be involved in each step of the planning process.
The Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management Office offers a "Guide to Public
Involvement" (January 1988) that may assist managers in working with the public.
Management plans should also be routinely updated.

Where barrier beaches cross political and jurisdictional boundaries, it is recommended
that a regional approach be used in drafting management plans.

In conjunction with the drafting of the Guideline4 the Task Force recommended
that the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection independently issue
a Wetlands Policy in the form of a generic Order of Conditions specific to off-road
vehicle use, the building of structures, and beach nourishment and dune restoration
activities on barrier beaches. This was done and appears in Appendix 1.

The Task Force also recommended that the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and
Wildlife independently issue a policy on "Off-Road Vehicle Management Guidelines
for Piping Plovers and Terns in Massachusetts." That policy appears in Appendix H.

Together, these two follow-up documents will help implement the Task Force's
recommendations. The Department of Environmental Protection and the Division of
Fisheries and Wildlife enforce the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and
Endangered Species Act respectively and are appropriately equipped to perform this
function. The Task Force has convened varied barrier beach interests who have been
able to come together in a constructive way to provide barrier beach stewards with
Guidelines that may help them in the tough and complex task of barrier beach
management. I

Users of the Guidelines should be aware that the document is equally applicable to
barrier beaches under Commonwealth stewardship as they are to those under the
ownership of Massachusetts' cities and towns. Federal agencies and private individuals
and organizations are also encouraged to apply the Guidelines, where appropriate,
to barrier beaches under their jurisdiction. The result can be a consistent and uniform
method of managing the 681 barrier beaches throughout the Bay State. In addition,
these Guidelines advance the goals and objectives of the Secretary of Environmental
Affairs' "Environmental Agenda," and Massachusetts Executive Orders, Number 181
and Number 190, while also serving as policy for the Secretary's Coastal Zone
Management Program.

The Guidelines provide for an ecosystems-based management approach designed to
foster responsible use and protection of the Commonwealth's barrier beaches.
Implementation of the Guidelines can be considered application of Best
Management Practices.

The Task Force's guiding principles regarding the incorporation of text into the
Guidelines were that: 1) the information be readable; and 2) the information be
relevant to barrier beach management today. The sounding board for all information
included in the Guidelines came from representatives of the Beach Managers
Association of Massachusetts. The Association's members are charged with the day-to-
day responsibility of managing most of the 18,750 acres of barrier beaches throughout
the Commonwealth.

Since establishment of the Task Force, many individuals, environmental groups,
federal, state, and local government agencies, advocacy, special interest, and user
groups have expressed a desire to participate in the Task Force's deliberations. The
Task Force has welcomed their participation and in many instances has charged a
particular group with the responsibility for drafting a section of the Guidelines where
that group had expertise. No individual, agency, or group has been denied an
opportunity to participate in the Task Force's deliberations.

In drafting these Guidelines, the Task Force employed a consensus approach in
arriving at group decisions. There were no votes taken where a majority could rule.

Alternatives were developed and explored in order to satisfy the group's interests
inside of existing environmental law. Reaching consensus took more time than"a
centralized approach. The added time, however, was devoted to understanding
people's perspectives and values. The results, I believe, were more creative and
effective, as expressed in the Guidelines'"Recommended Management Measures."

Some members of the Task Force have had differences in the past, continue to have
differences, and will inevitably express differences in the future. However, the Task
Force members have worked from a shared sense of common ground -- that is, the
protection and responsible use of the Commonwealth's barrier beaches.

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Environmental Affairs and its agencies remain
available to provide technical assistance to barrier beach stewards on interpretation
and application of the Guidelines

John J.
Ch i , Massachusetts Barrier Beach Task Force &
Assistant Director, Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management Office
February 19%

The Massachusetts Barrier Beach Task Force

Membership

John J. Clarke, Task Force Chairman
Assistant Director
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Executive Office of Environmental Affairs/Coastal Zone Management

C. Diane Boretos, Environmental Analyst
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Executive Office of Environmental Affairs/Department of Environmental Protection/
Bureau of Resource Protection/Division of Wetlands and Waterways/ Southeast
Regional Office

John Crane, Beach Conservation Officer
Town of Plymouth Park Department

Rob Gatewood
Association for the Preservation of Cape Cod; and Town of Barnstable

Joe Grady, Treasurer
Beach Managers Association of Massachusetts

Anne Hecht & Susi von Oettingen, Endangered Species Biologists
U.S.Department of the Interior/Fish & Wildlife Service/Division of Ecological Services

Karst R. Hoogeboom, Manager
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Executive Office of Environmental Affairs/Department of Environmental
Management/Division of Resource Conservation

Chris Kennedy, Regional Supervisor for Martha's Vineyard & Nantucket/
The Trustees of Reservations/Wakeman Conservation Center

Laurie Martinelli, Director of Public Policy
Massachusetts Audubon Society

Scott Melvin, Rare Species Zoologist
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Executive Office of Environmental Affairs/Department of Fisheries, Wildlife &
Environmental Law Enforcement/Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Robert B. Pond, Executive Director
Stripers Unlimited

Cliff White
Massachusetts Beach Buggy Association

Technical Adibors

Brad Blodget, Ornithologist
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Executive Office of Environmental Affairs/Department of Fisheries, Wildlife &
Environmental Law Enforcement/Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Lois Bruinooge, Legal Counsel
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Executive Office of Environmental Affairs/Coastal Zone Management

Paul G. Caruso, Marine Fisheries Biologist
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Executive Office of Environmental Affairs/Department of Fisheries, Wildlife &
Environmental Law Enforcement/Division of Marine Fisheries

Robert Golledge, Wetlands Section Chief
Commonweatlh of Massachusetts
Executive Office of Environmental Affairs/Department of Environmental Protection/
Bureau of Resource Protection/Division of Wetlands and Waterways

Brian A- Harrington
Manomet Bird Observatory

Scott Hecker
Coastal Watershed Program
Massachusetts Audubon Society

Karl Honkonen, Coordinator of Interpretation
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Executive Office of Environmental Affairs/Department of Environmental
Management/Division of Forests and Parks

Jim O'Connell, Coastal Geologist

Jim O'Connell, Coastal Geologist
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Executive Office of Environmental Affairs/Coastal Zone Management

Karl Rask, Regional Extension Specialist
County of Barnstable Cooperative Extension Service

David Rimmer
Trustees of Reservations/Crane Beach, Ipswich

Pam Rubinoff, Cape Cod Regional Coordinator
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Executive Office of Environmental Affairs/Coastal Zone Management

Others

Paul Accomando
Parker River Refuge Access Committee, Inc.

Patricia Eldredge, Aide to Senator Henri Rauschenbach
Cape & Islands District

Bob Fultz, South Shore Regional Coordinator
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Executive Office of Environmental Affairs/Coastal Zone Management

William C. Henchy, Esq.
Co-chair Brewster Conservation Commission

Representative Frank M. Hynes
4th Plymouth District

Brenden O'Neill, Aide to Rep. Robert C. Lawless
4th Barnstable District

Andy Ringold, Superintendent
U.S. Department of the Interior/National Park Service/Cape Cod National Seashore

Anne Smrcina, Public Information/Education Specialist
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Executive Office of Environmental Affairs/Coastal Zone Management

INTRODUCTION

Goals

The Massachusetts Barrier Beach Task Force set three primary goals in the
development of these Guidelines:

9 To draft guidelines for barrier beach management in Massachusetts that will serve
as policy and planning guidance for those with stewardship responsibilities over barrier
beach ecosystems in Massachusetts;

* To include the most relevant and useful information regarding the protection and
responsible use of barrier beaches; and

* To have state, federal, local and regional/county governments and private entities
consider the recommendations in the guidelines and adapt them to their particular
circumstances as policy.

z1h

A-- B C

Figure 1. Types of barrier beaches: (A) Bay Barriers, (B) Barrier Spits, and
(C) Barrier Islands.

Understanding Barrier Beaches

There are several basic questions that are often raised about barrier beaches, their
ecology, and their importance in the ecosystem. The Task Force has attempted to
answer some of the most common questions and provide an overall understanding
about the role barrier beaches play in the coastal environment.

What Is A Barder Beach?

A barrier beach is a narrow strip of beach and dunes separated from the mainland by
a marsh, bay, river, or any other water body. The gently sloping beach extends from
the frontal dune line to the offshore sand bar where waves first normally break.
Dunes are hills or ridges of sand deposited by the wind and/or wave action, or. can be
artificially deposited, and are often covered with beach-grass. All dunes extending
from the beach to the marsh, bay or river are part of the barrier beach. Together the
beach, dunes, tidal flats and associated water bodies comprise the dynamic barrier
beach ecosystem. Barrier beaches provide storm buffers for both humans and wildlife
in harbors and upland areas behind the barrier. They also serve as habitat for a
variety of plant and animal life, several of which are endangered in Massachusetts and
throughout the nation.

In the Bay State, there are three basic types of barrier beaches: bay barrier, barrier
spit, and barrier island. A bay barrier is connected to the mainland at both ends. A
barrier spit is only connected at one end, and a barrier island is not connected to the
mainland at all.

Why aW How Do Bamer Beaches Change?

Barrier beaches are always changing. In just a year's time these changes become
clearly evident. In the summer, when waves are generally less steep, the beach builds
up becoming higher and wider. Large, steeper waves that occur in the fall, winter and
early spring, cut into the beach and cause it to narrow and flatten. Over a longer
period of time, many barrier beaches throughout the Commonwealth tend to migrate
landward. This occurs when waves break and carry sand from the ocean side over the
beach and dunes, to the landward side. This movement also occurs when sand is
swept through tidal inlets into the bays and rivers behind barrier beaches. The
landward movement of the barrier beach is caused by storm overwash, as well as the
gradual rise in sea level which Massachusetts and other areas of the East Coast have
been experiencing for thousands of years. In some areas of the coast, the rate of
landward movement is as much as several feet per year. Its most dramatic effects are
felt during storm events.

8
8
IR IR

0 2 4

Miles

Figure 2. Reconstruction of the growth of Sandy Neck and development of
Barnstable Marsh, Cape Cod, Massachusetts (Redfield 1972).

Figure 3. Barrier island formation by spit accretion and inlet breaching (from
Hoyt 1967).

The strength of the barrier beach system lies in its natural dynamic character. This
character is most clearly represented by the beach's and dune's abilities to respond
(move and reshape) to storm winds and waves as a complete ecological unit. When
left unaltered, barrier beaches respond to storm overwash quite well by building up
again. The overwash provides the substrate for re-establishment of landward saltmarsh
and/or dunes, as well as, in some cases, allowing landward migration. Aerial
photographs of barrier beaches often show the re-establishment of saltmarsh or dunes
on overwash fans. Beachgrass grows on overwash fans and traps windblown sand to
begin the formation of new dunes. Eventually, the barrier- beach will look much as
it did before the storm, although it may now be slightly closer to the mainland. The
barrier is not "breaking down" during overwash episodes, it is simply responding to the
natural cycles upon which it depends.

As part of the barrier beach system, overwash plays an important role in wave energy
dissipation. While the overwash fan itself is important in dissipating storm wave
energy, the active process of overwash is critical. The process of overwash acts as an
energy release mechanism preventing numerous other overwashes, from forming by
redirecting wave energy through itself. The overwash is important to the continued
existence of the barrier. It allows the barrier beach to migrate landward in response
to storms and relative sea level rise. When considering the importance of overwash
episodes, the entire barrier profile, including its readjustment, must be considered. A
barrier beach profile includes not only the portion of the barrier which can be seen,
but also the seaward area out to the wave base or closure point. Wave base is the
seawardmost depth where sediment movement occurs under normal day-to-day or
storm wave action. Along the eastern seaboard, the 27 foot bathymetric contour is a
representative wave base under severe storm conditions. Therefore, under severe
storm conditions, the barrier beach profile extends to that bathymetric contour. The
active profile changes under varying storm intensities. Consequently, the alteration
of a portion of the profile can result in the interruption of the barrier's equilibrium
and may result in additional, unnecessary damage during a subsequent severe storm.
For example, bulldozing overwash material onto the seaward side of the barrier from
an overwash area, will result in a changed barrier profile. The placement of material
on top of the established natural equilibrium profile can result in the unnecessary loss
of barrier material during the next storm through an artificial lowering and thinning
of the barrier.

Many times, the usual human response to overwashes and the resultant shoreline
retreat and flooding is to build seawalls, groins or other hard structures in an attempt
to "protect the beach." Unfortunately, these alterations, along with paving and
bulldozing, interfere with the natural processes of the barrier beach. They prevent
overwash and interfere with beachgrass and dune growth, contributing to erosion in
surrounding areas. These disturbances are damaging to the system as a whole. Once
the natural beach and dune rebuilding processes'are interrupted, the barrier beach
defenses against future storms are diminished. In an attempt to "stabilize" the barrier
beach through armoring, such as building a seawall or revetment, the beach areas
adjacent to and in front of the armoring erode or scour at an accelerated rate and
may entirely disappear over time.

Flood,tTidiil
De a

Dune Iloach Ridge
Migrollo
--------------
Scorped
Dune

Overvilosh

Littoral Drdt
Ebb Firwailing Wind

PROFILE A-A'

BEACH THROAT- WASHOVER FA FLATS

''MARSH 4-

VEGETATED A:
BARRIER - - - - - - - - - - Baseline
FLATS
FAN

AN -401E,

Figure 4. Mechanisms of sand transport on barrier beaches (modified from
Godfrey 1976).

Figure 5.1 Overwash'surges during storm conditions (above) and resulting
washover fans (below).

In many instances, coastal banks adjacent to barrier beaches serve as the principal
sediment source for the barrier. It is therefore advised that, wherever and whenever
possible, coastal banks serving as sediment sources for adjacent barrier beaches,
remain or be returned to an undeveloped, unarmored state in order to allow for
healthy coastal beaches and dunes. It is recommended that, in a proactive approach,
barrier beach managers identify the major sediment sources for their barriers and
participate, if necessary, in proceedings of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act
and the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act in order to protect the future supply
of that source.

W4 ShouN Cifizens Be Concemed About Barfier Beaches?

Development on barrier beaches can pose significant hazards to the public's health
and safety. In 1900, over six-thousand people lost their lives when a hurricane caused
flooding and overwash of the barrier beach in Galveston, Texas. While storm warning
systems have improved greatly since that tragedy, the number of people living on
these hazard prone areas has also increased dramatically. According to the U.S.
Department of Commerce, 45% of the total land area in Massachusetts is coastal
while over 75% of the population lives in coastal areas. In addition, 50% of all
construction occurs in the same communities.

There are other reasons why citizens should be interested in barrier beaches. Tax
money is used to indirectly promote development in barrier beach areas. Citizens are
currently helping to pay for subsidized loans, disaster assistance, and the development
of infrastructure, including roads, sewers, and water lines, for these beaches. One
estimate indicates that it.could cost the nation approximately $112 billion in the next
20 years should the government continue to invest in barrier development.

According to State-Federal Hazard Mitigation Team reports, "Hurricane Bob"
(August, 1991), the "Halloween Northeaster" (October 1991), and the "December '92
Northeaster" cost taxpayers over $50 million (over and above monies paid from the
Federal Flood Insurance Program) to repair public roads, seawalls, sewer and water
lines, buildings, and other public facilities in the Bay State. The 1991/1992 storm
season also caused billions of dollars in damages to private property -- much of this
on barrier beaches. Approximately two thirds of the homes destroyed by those storms
were located on barrier beaches. Many of these homes were behind seawalls and
other erosion control structures which gave homeowners a false sense of security.
Those same seawalls also contributed to beach erosion thereby reducing the natural
storm defenses of the barrier beach. Most of these seawalls were reconstructed at
public expense in much the same way as they had existed prior to the storm season.
The large seawall and stone mound structure on Minot Beach in Scituate has been
reconstructed nineteen times. It was reconstructed after the "Blizzard of '78" with a
cost to the taxpayers of over $700,000. Despite the immense size of this structure
many of the homes behind it continue to be heavily damaged by coastal storms.

How Should Banier Beaches Be Managed?

Barrier beaches are managed for a variety of reasons, including recreation, tourism,
ecosystem protection, conservation, and residential usage. There are many
considerations to address. Federal, state, and local agencies have a variety of
jurisdictional interests in the barriers. Bringing all these issues together in a
management plan should help to codify management goals and initiatives. There are
many resources to use in development of a plan.

Executive Order Number 181 (1980), established a framework for the management
of barrier beaches in Massachusetts. The Order directs that state acquisition of
barrier beaches be made a priority. This Order assigns the highest priority for use of
disaster assistance funds to relocate willing sellers from storm damaged barrier beach
areas. Also, state and federal monies for construction projects will not be used to
encourage new growth and development on barrier beaches. These economic policies
recognize barrier beaches as hazard-prone areas where future storm damage will
inevitably occur.

Local governments play an important role in barrier beach management. Since
municipal commissions, committees and boards review proposals for construction
activities on barrier beaches, a large responsibility resides with local officials to ensure
that proposed activities reflect both the natural and economic hazards and the
environmental sensitivity characteristic of barrier beaches. The Massachusetts Barrier
Beach Task Force strongly encourages municipalities to develop management plans
for locally owned barrier beach areas to promote appropriate use.

The Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management Office has readily available maps
which identify and delineate each barrier for each coastal city and town in the
Commonwealth ("Coastal Zone Management Barrier Beach Inventory Project,"
December 1982). [See Appendix C for the complete list and -municipal location of
each barrier beach.] Coastal Zone Management also has available data indicating the
rate of shoreline erosion and accretion through its "Massachusetts Shoreline Change
Project" (January, 1989). Other excellent references are the "Barrier Beach
Management Sourcebook," developed by Coastal Zone Management (1983) and the
"Barrier Island Sourcebook" (Leatherman, 1979). Appendix K is a bibliography that
highlights these and other publications that will be useful to supplement these
Guidelines.

With the addition of "Wildlife Habitat" to the list of interests protected under the
Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and the passage of a state Endangered
Species Act (1990), barrier beach management has moved to a new level of
importance -- beyond flood control and storm damage protection -- to the protection
of wildlife habitats and rare species on barrier beaches.

With all that has been learned since promulgation of the Massachusetts Wetlands
Protection Act's Coastal Regulations in 1978, the addition of new statutes protecting
wildlife habitat and endangered species, and our on-site experiences regarding the

I P S W I C B A

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U S E T T S B A Y
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Gloucester Quadrangle
Barrier Beach Inventory Project Barrier Beach Unit Code System Massachusetts - Essex County
Executive Office of Environmental Affairs Gt -9 The geological field research and mapping was
Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management Town Barrier unit compiled and produced under contract with
Richard F Delaney, Director Barrier Beach Margins The Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies
The seaward and landward margins of all barrier
Project Coordinator: Gary Clayton beach units extend to mean low water and include Principal Investigator: Lester B. Smith, Jr.
Geologic Advisor: Jeffrey Benoit contiguous marsh and/or tidal flats. Date of completion: April 1982
no contiguous marsh and/or tidal flats
Maps depict Barrier Beaches subject to are present Base maps are U.S. Geological Survey Quadrangles -
Executive Order No. 181. 7.5 Minute Series (Topographic)
contiguous marsh and/or lidal flats Department of Public Works, Massachusetts
are part of the barrier beach unit

Scale in Feet 1:4o,ooo
1000 0 1000 M WW 4000 WW G@
North 0.@:Wgl. Lwatton

The preparation of this publication was funded by the Office of Coastal Zone Management, National Oceanic and Atmosphelfic Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, under a program implementation granl to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,
5

dynamics of barrier beach ecology, the Task Force hopes that these Guidelines will
serve to help better understand barrier beach processes in order that ecosystems-
based management of these fragile coastal resources can be improved.

Figure 6. Barrier Beach Inventory Project map of Gloucester.

17 18

Barrier Beach Economics, including Fees and Financing

The coast and coastal zone of Massachusetts is the most significant economic
natural resource in the state. According to data from "Valuing Coastal Zone
Management," a March 1990 report, prepared for the National Coastal Resources
Research and Development Institute by the University of North Carolina/Chapel
Hill's Center for Urban and Regional Studies, the Coastal Gross National Product has
been growing faster than the overall Gross National Product. The Massachusetts
Coastal Zone Management Program has determined that over half of the
Commonwealth's share ($70.7 billion in 1985) of the Gross National Product
originates from coast-related activities. Included among these activities are the third
largest fisheries industry in the United States and an important tourism industry that
centers around bathing beaches and tourist attractions. These businesses are strongly
dependent on healthy coastal ecosystems.

VALUING THE COAST

Barrier beaches comprise approximately 222 miles (or a little more than 21%)
of the state's 1,500-mile beach shoreline (as determined by the Army Corps of
Engineers). The 681 barrier beaches along the Massachusetts coast provide a wealth
of resources that contribute greatly to the economic health of the Commonwealth.
According to the Massachusetts Audubon Society's white paper "Turning the Tide:
Toward a Liveable Coast" (1992), measuring the value of barrier beaches is difficult,
both because of a lack of availability of basic data and because the very nature of
some of the resources make assigning a dollar value a difficult task. Estimating the
aesthetic value or desirability and attractiveness of coastal resources is an even more
imprecise process. Nevertheless, the following information will provide some insight
into the magnitude of economic contributions that barrier beach resources provide in
Massachusetts.

Storm and Erosion Control
The value of storm and erosion protection capabilities of barrier beaches is
enormous and well documented. Barrier beaches deflect the force of onshore waves,
and function as wave energy absorbers during coastal storms.
While there are no definitive numbers for the storm protective value of
barrier beaches, the flood control and erosion control benefits of wetlands have been
documented by the Environmental Law Institute in "Our National Wetland Heritage"
and the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development's "United
States of America National Report." As discussed earlier, coastal wetlands reduce the
impact of storm tides and waves before they reach upland areas. The mats of wetland
vegetation, with their complicated root systems, bind and protect soil against erosion.
While an exact correlation may not be possible, using an annual protection value of
$2,020 per acre of wetland as determined by the federal government, the 49,000 acres
of saltmarsh wetland behind Massachusetts' barrier beaches provide as much as $600
million in storm and erosion protection every year.

Fisheries
The waters of the Commonwealth are rich in finfish and shellfish, including
lobsters. Saltmarsh areas protected by barrier beaches are important to fisheries for
two reasons: they are a major source of nutrients for shellfish and finfish; and they
provide protected spawning and feeding grounds for many of the most economically
significant commercial fisheries. According to "Our National Wetland Heritage," it
has been estimated that 90 percent of the species of commercial importance either
pass their entire lives in estuarine environments that are protected by barrier beaches
or require estuaries as nursery grounds. From information provided in the
Massachusetts Audubon Society's white paper, a conservative estimate of the
cumulative value of all Massachusetts commercial fisheries, including nearshore and
offshore waters, was $1 billion for 1984.
Using figures from "The Massachusetts Marine Economy" (April 1991)
prepared by the Massachusetts Centers of Excellence Corporation, an estimated 1.1
million recreational fishermen made 4 million fishing trips in 1986. They caught about
26 million fish, with over 19.5 million coming from Massachusetts' coastal waters.
Sixty percent of the recreational catch came from enclosed coastal waters (river
mouths, bays, sounds), many of which are, protected by barrier beaches. While it is
hard to isolate the economic impact of barrier beaches on recreational fishing, it has
been estimated that recreational finfishing contributed $638 million to the state
economy in 1988. Over 24,000 people took part in recreational shellfishing in
Massachusetts in 1987 and harvested food items valued at $4.4 million.
From this data, it is clear that commercial and recreational fisheries provide
significant contributions to the state's economy. It is also clear that the role barrier
beaches play in the creation and protection of saltmarsh habitat for fisheries is
important in maintaining the economic and ecological health of those fisheries.

Tourism and Recreation
Massachusetts' coastline lies within a day's drive of one-quarter of the nation's
population. As the state has moved away from a manufacturing economy, the tourism
industry has become the I -argest single component of the state's economy. According
to U.S. Travel Data Center figures, residents of the U.S. made an estimated 17
million trips to Massachusetts in 1990 (an average 1.9 people per trip party, or 32.2
million person-trips). For 70 percent of these visitors, the primary purpose of
traveling was for pleasure. Fifty-four percent of the visits occur in summer, the most
popular season to visit Massachusetts. Thirty-six percent of the tourists visited the
beach or seashore (11.6 million visits), showing that the coast of Massachusetts has
a strong influence on its tourism value. The Massachusetts Office of Travel and
Tourism reports that seaside areas are the fastest growing tourist areas in the state,
with tourism in coastal counties growing at a rate of 13% in 1988, compared to a rate
of less than 9% for the rest of the state.
In 1990, expenditures by domestic visitors (not including international tourists)
to the coastal counties of Massachusetts totaled over $5.8 billion. Not all of this can
be attributed directly to the use and enjoyment of coastal resources. Visits to historic
sites, attendance at conventions, and other attractions unrelated to proximity to the
coast probably accounted for the majority of tourism in the metropolitan Boston area.
Nevertheless, visitors attracted to the coast do provide significant support for the
economies of some regions, particularly the Cape and Islands. It is estimated by the

U.S. Travel Data Center that over 80,000 jobs can be attributed to tourism in the
state's coastal counties.
Spending a day at the beach is probably the most typical coastal recreation
activity. Quantifying the direct economic value of beach use is difficult because many
beaches are free. Indirect economic benefits, such as income to area motels and
restaurants, are also hard to quantify because no comprehensive data is kept on beach
attendance. Research by the State of Florida and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
indicates that recreational users of the coast spend $45 to $55 per day on beach-
related expenditures. The State of Florida has also determined that each dollar spent
by tourists has a multiplier effect on the state's economy of 5.18. Research has yet
to be undertaken in Massachusetts to determine the multiplier effect here. In 1987,
the state's parks attracted 11.9 million visitors, 1.7 million of whom visited state
beaches. Based on a 1992 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Management
survey, half of all state park users also spent money in local restaurants and bought
gifts during their trip. Attendance at the state and federally owned beaches, including
Cape Cod National Seashore, Horseneck Beach Reservation, and Salisbury Beach
Reservation, was almost 10 million in 1989. Private and town beaches accounted for
several million more visitors.

Boating
According to the Massachusetts Marine Trades Association, in 1987, Massachusetts
ranked nineteenth nationally in terms of registered boats in the Bay State (196,541).
For the same year, the Commonwealth also supported $312,435,000 worth of boat,
motor, trailer, and accessory purchases.

Real Estate
The value of coastal real estate has traditionally been higher than the state
average. The Massachusetts Department of Revenue has calculated that, currently,
coastal real estate per acre is worth approximately two and a half times non-coastal
teal estate. As indicated in "Valuing Coastal Zone Management," it was determined,
for instance, that people in Rhode Island are willing to pay anywhere from $4,000 to
$20,000 additional for a house with a view of the coast.

Intrinsic Value of the Coast
In addition to direct economic values, the coast has intrinsic worth that is not
easily translated into dollars. This worth can be termed non-market value, even
though something is not bought and sold, it still may have economic value.
Economists have found that many people are willing to pay for scenic vistas, proximity
to the coast or the assurance that coastal resources and aesthetics will be preserved
for the future. Other studies have shown that people are willing to pay as much as
$5.00 for a visit to a beach that they currently enjoy for free. People may even be
willing to pay for protection of resources that they may never directly use, just for the
satisfaction of knowing that unspoiled panoramas, healthy ecosystems and their
attendant diversity of nature exist. While the intrinsic value of Massachusetts' coastal
resources, and specifically barrier beaches, has not been analyzed in detail, studies in
other areas have found that the intrinsic value can be as high as 50 percent of the
direct economic benefits incurred from resource use.

FINANCING

It is important that beach managers work closely with their boards of
selectmen or mayor's offices in order to adequately finance the operation of barrier
beaches. Based on discussions with municipal officials and the Mass. Department of
Revenue, the following are provided as possible funding options.

Municipalities should anticipate certain expenses when managing their barrier
beaches. Actions necessary in order to financially prepare for barrier beach
management plan implementation should include the preparation of balance sheets
that clearly iflustrate the expenses and revenues associated with beach management.
If barrier beaches are to continue to attract visitors/users and revenue, communities
should realize that financial commitments to these resources, such as maintenance and
management, are crucial. It is recommended that the municipality's general fund
provide the primary source of revenue for beach management. Barrier beach
revenues, however, should not be used to subsidize the general fund.
Fair'and equitable fees and fines should be levied by those with stewardship
responsibilities over barrier beaches to accommodate the costs to maintain the beach.
Beach permit user fees can be levied for entrance and beach-related
recreational uses. The Task Force recommends that revenues generated from
entrance and beach uses be dedicated to beach and facilities' maintenance and
improvements. An assessment should be made in order to determine whether or not
beach-generated fees are adequate enough to pay for beach-related maintenance and
improvements. With minimum state and federal assistance available to maintain such
public services, it is recommended that, wherever possible, barrier beach fees be used
to offset the costs of providing services at barrier beaches.

Fees can be dedicated to:
*Infrastructure maintenance and improvement -- entrance stations; parking
lots and roads; bath houses; utilities (electricity, water, telephone, heat);
machinery, equipment and vehicles; access ramps and boardwalks; beach grass
plants and planting; fencing and signs; and
e Services/Management -- lot attendants; police and fire protection; public
works staff; lifeguards; conservation officers and health agents; plover/tern
wardens; harbormasters and shellfish wardens;'barrier beach-related municipal
expenses (personnel insurance, pensions, retirement and municipal building
expenses); any outstanding beach-related debt service; beach acquisition
programs; and public education.

Fee options can be broken down to include:
Beach Lot Permits
- Year-round Resident
- Rental Resident
- Daily/Weekly Visitor
Off-Road Vehicle Permits
- Resident
- Nonresident

e Horseback Riding Permits
o Pedestrian Access (walk-ins)
Bicycle Access
Vessel Landings

Although municipal beach and parking fees often differ for non-residents and
residents, the Task Force recommends that where fees are charged to local residents,
non-residents should not be charged more than twice the local amount. Although the
tax burden for municipal barrier beach care and maintenance is weighted to the local
resident, where the environmental integrity of a barrier beach will not be
compromised, public access for all residents of the Commonwealth is encouraged at
a reasonable cost.
Fines imposed against violators of barrier beach regulations can also be
dedicated to barrier beach management. Further information on this subject is
discussed later on.

Enterprise Fund
As an alternative to general fund appropriations, proceeds can be dedicated
to a special Barrier Beach Enterprise Fund. Enterprise funds have been successfully
used in harbors, for instance, to insure that the community has adequate monies,
generated by the users, to maintain and improve facilities when necessary. This is an
accounting procedure that requires town meeting or city council approval. In order
to separately account for the revenue and expenses of providing services at barrier
beaches, municipalities are urged to establish such a fund.
An enterprise fund works as follows: through municipal adoption of Mass.
General Laws Chapter 44, �53F 1/; all monies collected for beach use are placed in the
fund and all beach-related costs come out of this fund. Expenditures are itemized on
an annual budget and subject to the municipal appropriations process. The account,
as with all other accounts, is managed by the municipal treasurer.
By accounting for all the revenues and costs associated with barrier beaches,
beach managers can:
1) Demonstrate to the public how much of the costs of providing these
services are recovered through user charges and how much, if any is being
subsidized through taxes;
2) Adjust user service fees to make barrier beaches self-supporting in cases
where beach facilities are currently a burden on the tax base; and
3) Accrue earnings to fund long-term maintenance or faciliti i provement
les Im
plans without money being directed to the general operating fund.

For additional information and guidance on establishing an Enterprise Fund, contact
the Massachusetts Department of Revenue/Division of Local Services/Bureau of
Accounts at (617) 727-2300. A detailed "Handbook" is available.

Non-Criminal Citations Using Local Bylaws/Ordinances
If a municipality has a local barrier beach or wetland protection
bylaw/ordinance, there is a recommended enforcement technique which can be used

to bring about compliance before escalating to a lawsuit. The legislature has
authorized. municipal governments to use a non-criminal ticketing procedure to
enforce local laws.
The ticketing statute, Mass. General Laws Chapter 40, �21D, provides that any
ordinance, bylaw, rule, or regulation of any municipal office, board, or department
may be enforced by this method as long as the violation is subject to a specific
penalty.. Only a few municipalities have actually adopted this process; some have
made it applicable to a few specific bylaws/ordinances while others have given it more
wide-ranging applications. Typical environmental laws enforced by this method
include wetland bylaws/ordinances and regulations, conservation land rules and
regulations, rubbish disposal and littering regulations, shellfish regulations, and
violations of zoning bylaws/ordinances.
Use of the ticketing procedure allows an enforcement official to issue a ticket
which provides for a specific sum of money to be paid as a penalty for the violation
of a local law. The violator must pay the ticket or request an appeal in writing to the
district court. If appealed, a hearing will be held on the matter within twenty-one days
following the date the ticket was written.
Advantages to use of the non-criminal ticket include:
1) The criminal stigma is taken away from enforcement efforts;
2) The need to prove a case in a trial setting is for the most part eliminated;
and
3) Many local laws can be enforced by a process similar to that employed for
minor traffic violations, a process with which most people are familiar.

For further information and details, refer to the Mass. Department of Environmental
Protection's Division of Wetlands and Waterways manual entitled: "An Enforcement
Manual For Wetlands Protection In Massachusetts" (1990).

NOTE: The procedural aspects of Mass. General Laws Chapter 40, �21D have recently
been amendei4 and additional amendments are likely in the near future. Consult with
your town counsel or city solicitor for guidance before proceeding with this enforcement
method.

CHAPTER1

A Beach Manager's Guide to the Regulations

Definitions

The criteria used for identifying and delineating barrier beaches in Massachusetts are
based on the definition of a barrier beach as contained in the Preamble of
Massachusetts Executive Order Number 181. This definition of a barrier beach is also
identical to that of the Coastal Regulations of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection
Act:

Barrier Beach means a narrow low-lying strip of land generally
consisting of coastal beaches and coastal dunes extending roughly
parallel to the trend of the coast. It is separated fiom the mainland by
a narrow body of fresh, brackish or saline water or a marsh
system .... (310 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.29)

Since coastal beaches and coastal dunes comprise a barrier beach, it is important to
understand the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Regulatory definitions for these
resource areas. The definitions are as follows:

Coastal Beach means unconsolidated sediment subject to wave, tidal and
coastal storm action which forms the gently sloping shore of a body of saft
water and includes tidal flats. Coastal beaches extend from the mean low
water line landward to the duneline, coastal bankline or the seaward edge of
existing man-made structures, when these structures replace one of the above
lines, whichever is closest to the ocean .... (310 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.27)

Coastal dune means any natural hill, mound or ridge of sediment landward of
a coastal beach deposited by wind action or storm overwash. Coastal dune also
means sediment deposited by artificial means and serving the purpose of storm
damage prevention or flood control....(310 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.28)

4,
a C?

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W,

HST'll,
HNI--
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LNT;@
LST
LAGOON SEDIMENTS PEAT OVERWASH SOIL DUNE DRIFT STEP SHOREFACE
LAYERS BEDDING LINES SEDIMENTS

Barrier environments (Godfrey 1976)

Figure 7. Barrier environments (Godfrey 1976).

General Characteristics

For management purposes, the Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management Office has
identified and mapped 681 Massachusetts barriers in its "Coastal Zone Management
Barrier Beach Inventory Project" (April, 1982). Individual maps are available to the
public by contacting the Mass. Coastal Zone Management Office at (617)727-9530.
Approximately 15 additional barriers have been identified and will be included in a
future revision of the Inventory. The following general criteria from the regulatory
definitions were used in the identification process:

narrow low-lying strip of land:
Barrier beach landforms are generally low-lying and narrow in width due to
their geologic origin and evolution. The width and height of a barrier beach
varies due to numerous factors including sediment supply, sediment transport
patterns and rates, exposure to waves and human alterations. In
Massachusetts, barrier dimensions range in width from over thousands of feet
to those on the order of tens of feet.

consist of coastal beaches and coastal dunes:
Coastal beaches and coastal dunes are formed by coastal processes such as
wave, tidal, wind and coastal storm action. Their existence is very important
and in part distinguishes barrier beach landforms from other coastal landforms
that comprise the Massachusetts coast. Unaltered dunes may range in height
from a few feet above sea level to over fifty feet in elevation. As a result of
filling, construction or structural stabilization, many barrier beaches have
heavily altered beach and dune areas. These areas remain important buffers
that help protect landward areas from storm damage and flooding. Regardless
of the type of alterations thathave occurred, the beach or dune deposits, if
not their forms, continue to exist. Consequently, those barrier beaches that
have been subject to human alteration and structural development remain
protected by the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and have been
mapped by the Coastal Zone Management Office. Most other coastal
landforms in Massachusetts consist entirely of bedrock or glacial sediment.
These other, areas are not barrier beaches but may be classified as another
type of coastal wetland such as rocky intertidal shore or coastal bank.

parallel to the trend of the coast:
The mainland Massachusetts coast is quite irregular due to a non-uniform
distribution of primary coastal deposit& (glacial landforms; and bedrock).
Barrier beaches fill irregularities in the primary deposits, and they are
generally oriented perpendicular to the direction of maximum wave fetch.
Consequently, barrier beaches run parallel to the trend of the coast, but, since
the coast is so irregular, barrier beach orientation is likewise variable.

separated from the mainland by a wetland or waterbody:
Ile definition of a barrier beach also clearly states that the landforin is
separated from the mainland by a narrow body of fresh, brackish or saline
water or a marsh system." It is an important characteristic of a barrier beach
that such a marsh or water body exist landward of the barrier.

a barrier beach may be joined to the mainland at one or both ends:
At the lateral boundaries the barrier beach "ends" where there is no longer
a wetland or waterbody behind the landform and when a glacial, bedrock or
fill upland is encountered. The barrier may also terminate at a water body,
marsh or inlet. If one end terminates in this manner, the barrier is called a
barrier spit. If both ends terminate this way, it is called a barrier island. Bay
barriers, which are the most common barriers found in Massachusetts, occur
when both margins are attached to upland areas.

developed barrier beaches:
Neither Executive Order Number 181 nor the definition of a barrier beach
imply that altered barrier beaches should be identified or designated with any
special status. Also, a landform does not have to be above any specific size
threshold to be considered a barrier beach. Whether small or large,
developed or undeveloped, these coastal barriers remain subject to significant
storm damage and may provide important habitat for wildlife. Therefore, if
a landform meets the geomorphic requirements, it is identified as a barrier
beach regardless of size and degree of alteration (such as development). This
is an important point that should not to be overlooked by barrier beach
managers.

artiflcially created landforms:
Artificially created landforms with characteristics similar to natural barrier
beaches exist along the Massachusetts coastline. These features, however, do
not reflect the geologic evolution necessary for the landform to be classified
as a barrier beach nor do these artificial landforms necessarily respond to
storm processes in the same manner as a naturally-formed barrier does. An
example of such a structure is the Stoney Point Dike in Buzzards Bay.

perched barrier beach:
In certain coastal areas, beach and dune deppsits overlie irregular glacial
surfaces. If a glacial landform extends above mid-tide, the overlying beach
and dune resource areas are not identified as a barrier beach. When an
underlying glacial surface only extends to amid-tide elevation these landforms
are identified by the Coastal Zone Management Office as barrier beaches.
This criterion was selected because it could be applied to most coastal areas
through a combination of aerial photo use and direct field observation. Also,
identified "perched barriers" provide storm damage protection and flood
control. Overwash fans are present on several perched barriers in
Massachusetts indicating that these landforms are dynamic, potentially storm
hazardous areas that may also play a role in providing wildlife habitat,

particularly for the rare piping plover.

influenced by regular tidal action:
All barrier beaches influenced by tidal action have been identified and
mapped, even small barriers in coastal eftibayments. If a barrier landform is
large enough to consist of a coastal dune, then it is identified as a barrier
beach when it satisfies the wetland definitions. Depositional features in areas
not subject to tidal influences or only subject to tidal action episodically (such
as in ponds occasionally opened to the sea) are not identified as barrier
beaches, because they do not satisfy the regulatory definitions.

Delineation of Barrier Margins

The margins of a barrier beach include the seaward (exposed) side to low tide in
tidally influenced areas, the landward (protected) side and lateral margins.

The lateral margins of barrier beaches. encountered in Massachusetts include upland
margins and water body or wetland margins. The water body or wetland margin is
usually a straightforward determination. The upland/barrier beach margin delineation,
however, can be difficult to determine. Therefore, this delineation will be discussed
in detail. There are three basic types of barrier/upland margins: (1) coastal bank; (2)
dune-upland; and (3) bedrock.

coastal bank margin:
Most of Massachusetts' barriers are bay barriers with coastal bank lateral
margins. In most instances, coastal banks consist of glacial sediment which
were formed by major ice advances over New England. These deposits are
variable in composition and texture. They may consist of glacial till, glacial
outwash or glacial lake or marine deposits.

dune-upland margin:
This boundary occurs when coastal dunes are present on top of or seaward of
an upland. The upland may consist of glacial material, bedrock or artificial
fill. The dune-upland margin can form when a barrier beach builds laterally
in front of an upland or when a barrier migrates landward and attaches itself
to an upland. This margin also occurs when the landward niarsh or water
body behind a barrier has changed to upland as a result of artificial filling of
a portion of the marsh/wetland area.

bedrock margin:
The lateral margin of a barrier beach can terminate at bedrock, which is
massive rock material formed by metamorphic, igneous or sedimentary
processes. Bedrock can be found in several areas along the coast of
Massachusetts.

Applicable Federal and State Laws

Numerous federal, state, regional, and local laws have been enacted that pertain to
the use and protection of barrier beaches. In this section, the Task Force has
attempted to summarize the most pertinent aspects of each major piece of legislation.
For a comprehensive citation of federal, state, regional and municipal law, s&
Appendix E.

FEDERALJURISDICIION

Coastal Barrier Resources Act (1982), last amended 1990, 16 U.S. Code 3502 et
seq. Restricts future federal expenditures and federal financial assistance on
designated undeveloped coastal barrier beaches which have the effect of
encouraging development of the barriers. Barrier units designated by
Congress have been mapped by the U.S. Department of the Interior and
typically include those areas that are undeveloped (approximately I house per
5 acres). There are 54 units on 90 Massachusetts barrier beaches [see
Appendix B]. No new federal flood insurance may be issued, as depicted on
new Flood Insurance Rate Maps. Enforced by the U.S. Office of Management
and Budget. Contact the Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management Office at
(617) 727-9530.

Coastal Zone Management Act of 197Z last amended in 1990,16 U.S. Code 1451
et seq. National program overseeing the Coastal Zone Management Programs of
member states, including Massachusetts. See State jurisdiction for
Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management.

Endangered Species Act (1973) last amended 1988, 16 U.S. Code 1531 et seq.
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service, to list fish, wildlife and plants found to be threatened or endangered,
such as the Piping Plover or the Roseate Tern, and provides for their
protection and recovery. Prohibits "taking" of listed species. Contact the U.S.
Fish & Wildlife Service at (603) 225-1411.

Marine Plastic Pollution Research and Control Act (1987), 33 U.S. Code 1901
et seq.
Prohibits all ships from dumping plastics into the sea and regulates other type
of material that may be dumped within the waters of the U.S. Contact the
U.S. Coast Guard at (617) 223-3000 (N.H. border to Plymouth/Manomet
Point) or (401) 528-5335 (Plymouth/Manomet Point to R.I. border) or the
Center for Marine Conservation at (202)429-5609.

National Environmental Policy Act (1970), last amended 1984, 42 U.S. Code 4321
et seq.
Requires an assessment of environmental impacts from federally-sponsored
projects with significant impacts and may result in the preparation of an
environmental impact statement by the federal agency. Contact the
Environmental Protection Agency at (617)565-3715.,

National Flood Insurance Act (1968), 42 U.S. Code 4001 et seq.
Implemented by Federal Emergency Management Agency. Structures within
the mapped 100-year fl6odplain are required to be built in accordance with
the federal standards and state building code, regarding floor elevations and
floodproofing. Federal regulations are implemented through the state and
local building code and enforced by the municipal building inspector. Contact
the Federal Emergency Management Agency at (617) 223-9561 or the
municipal building department.

Submerged Lands Act (1953)
The Federal Government released and relinquished to the states, all of its
claims, rights, interests, title, and ownership of the lands and resources
beneath navigable waters within the territorial limits (3 miles) of the state's
Mean High Water line.

Rivers & Harbors Act (1899), 33 U.S. Code 401 et seq.
Authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to regulate structures below
Mean High Water and work in navigable waters of the U.S. Permit required.
Contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at 1-800-362-4367.

Water Pollution Control Act (1972), 33 U.S. Code 1251 et seq.
Requires applicants to obtain a certification or waiver from the Mass.
Department of Environmental Protection before the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers issues. a permit for discharge of dredge or fill materials into water
and wetlands of the U.S. Permit required. Contact the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers at 1-800-362-4367.

STATEJURISDICIION

Areas of Critical Environmental Concern - Mass. General Laws Chapter 30, ��61 -
62H; 301 Code of Mass. Regulations 12.00
Currently there are barrier beaches located within eight of the thirteen coastal
Areas of Critical Environmental Concern as designated by the Massachusetts
Secretary of Environmental Affairs (see list below). The critical'area program
regulations direct all Executive Office of Environmental Affairs agencies to
take action, administer programs, and revise regulations to: a) acquire useful
scientific data on the designated area; b) preserve, restore and enhance the
resources of the critical area; and c) ensure that activities in or impacting on
the area are carried out so as to minimize adverse effects on the values and
resources of the Area of Critical Environmental Concern. Additionally, state
agency actions within a designated area, and projects requiring state permits
or funding, may require Mass. Environmental Policy Act review pursuant to
the Environmental Policy Act regulations at 301 Code of Mass. Regulations
11.00.

Town Area of Critical Env. Concern

Bourne Back River
Plymouth Ellisville Harbor
Eastham, Orleans & Brewster Inner Cape Cod Bay
Gloucester, Essex, Ipswich, Parker River/Essex Bay
Rowley & Newbury
Brewster, Chatham, Harwich Pleasant Bay
& Orleans
Barnstable & Sandwich Sandy Neck/Barnstable Harbor
Falmouth & Mashpee Waquoit Bay
Wellfleet, Truro & Eastham Wellfleet Harbor

For further information regarding the Area of Critical Environmental Concern
program, and for a copy of the "Program Guide" with detailed maps (June,
1993), contact the Mass. Department of Environmental Management, 100
Cambridge Street, 14th Floor, Boston, MA 02202 at (617)727-3160.

Clean Water Act - Mass. General Laws Chapter 21, �42; 314 Code of Mass.
Regulations 1.00 - 15.00
Under �401 of the Federal Clean Water Act, the Massachusetts Department
of Environmental Protection's Division of Wetlands and Waterways is
required to certify that activities for which federal permits are needed,
including the filling of wetlands under � 404 of the federal statute, will not
violate the Massachusetts Water Quality Standards. Water Quality Certificate
required. Contact the Massachusetts Department of Environmental

Protection's Division of Wetlands and Waterways at (617) 292-5695 or the
appropriate Division regional office.

Coastal Wetlands Restriction Act - Mass. General Laws Chapter 130, �105; 302
Code of Mass. Regulations 4.00
Some coastal wetlands have deed restrictions which "run with the land" and
limit activities that would alter the wetlands. Work in these areas requires
consistency with the coastal restriction as well as an Order of Conditions from
the municipal conservation commission. Contact the Massachusetts
Department of Environmental Protection's Conservancy Program at (617)
292-5907.

Coastal Zone Management - Mass. General Laws Chapter 21A., �4A,- 310 Code of
Mass. Regulations 20.00 and 21.00
Coordinates the state's coastal zone-management program and provides a role
in policy development; offers technical assistance to communities to develop
and implement comprehensive coastal management plans. Coastal Zone
Management reviews projects that require a federal permit, receive federal
funds, or are a direct federal activity for consistency with Massachusetts
Coastal Zone Management cnforceable Program Policies. Consistency
Certificate required. Contact the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs'
Coastal Zone Management Office at (617) 727-9530.

Endangered Species Act - Mass. General Laws Chapter 131A; 321 Code of Mass.
Regulations 10.00
Prohibits the "taking" of State-listed rare plants and animal species. Specific
Significant Habitats can be designated and any alteration requires a permit.
Contact the Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife at (617) 727-9194.

Fish and Wildlife Regulations - Mass. General Laws Chapter 131; 321 Code of
Mass. Regulations 1.00 - 9.00
Control of the taking or possession of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians,
and inland fish through regulation of allowable species, quantities, sizes, times,
places, and methods of taking. Includes requirements for permits. Contact the
Massachusetts Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and Environmental Law
Enforcement's Division of Fisheries and Wildlife at (617) 727-3151.

Marine Fisheries Regulations - Mass. General Laws Chapter 130; 322 Code of
Mass. Regulations 1.00 - 12.00
Control of the taking, possession, and distribution of marine finfish and
shellfish through regulation of allowable species, quantities, sizes, times,
places, and. methods of taking. Includes requirements for state permits.
Contact the Massachusetts Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and
Environmental Law Enforcement's Division of Marine Fisheries at (617) 272-
3193.

Public Waterfront Act - Mass. General Laws Chapter 91; 310 Code of Mass.
Regulations 9.00
Codifies the Public Trust Doctrine (Colonial Ordinances of 1641 - 1647) and
the public's right to fish, fowl, and navigate in the tidelands and great ponds.
Subsequent case, law supplements the understanding of this public right.
Regulates activities below the Mean High Water line, including docks and
piers, dredging, and beach nourishment. State policy for barrier beaches
encourages the use of dredged material for beach nourishment, given
sediment compatibility. Public funds used for beach nourishment requires
strolling access for the public on the nourished beach. Permit/license required..
Contact the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection's
Division of Wetlands and Waterways Program at (617) 292-5695.

Title 5 of State Environmental Code - Mass. General Laws Chapter 21A, �13; 3 10
Code of Mass. Regulations 15.00
Authorizes the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection's
Division of Water Pollution Control to regulate the design, construction, and
maintenance of on-site subsurface disposal systems. Communities may adopt
more stringent regulations when local conditions warrant higher standards.
Permit required. Contact municipal board of health or the Massachusetts
Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Water Pollution
Control at (617) 292-5673.

Wetlands Protection Act - Mass. General Laws Chapter 131, �40; 310 Code of
Mass. Regulations 10.00
Activities in wetland resource areas, such as dunes, beaches, tidal flats and
coastal banks, are subject to performance standards outlined in the regulations
that protect the interests of the Act, including storm damage prevention and
protection of wildlife habitat. The local conservation commission implements
the regulations as overseen by the Department of Environmental Protection's
Division of Wetlands and Waterways. Orders of Conditions regulate proposed
activities to minimize or prohibit impacts to wetland resource areas. Permit
required. Contact the municipal conservation commission or the
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection's Wetlands and
Waterways Program at (617) 292-5695.

Executive Order Number 181 Barrier Beaches (1980)
Acknowledges the importance of barrier beaches as a migrating landform
providing storm damage prevention and flood control. Discourages
development on barriers with state and federal grants, and encourages
preparation of management plans. These Guidelines further advance the
Executive Order. Contact the Massachusetts Executive Office of
Environmental Affairs's Coastal Zone Management Office at (617)727-9530.

Executive Order Number 190 Regulation of Off-Road Vehicle Use on Public
Lands Containing Coastal Wetlands Resources (1980)
Directs state agencies to balance competing uses of public lands and

minimizes the degradation of the wetlands resources due to off-road vehicle
use, through management and monitoring. These Guidelines further advance
the Executive Order. Contact the Massachusetts Executive Office of
Environmental Affairs' Coastal Zone Management Office at (617) 727-9530.

Architecture Access Board - 521 Code of Mass. Regulations 2.00 - 3.00; Building
Code, 780 Code of Mass. Regulations 1.00 - 34.00
Rules governing construction of public and private facilities in federally
mapped 100 year flood zones; construction of public facilities on bathing
beaches; and access to such structures. Permits required. Contact municipal
building inspectors.

CH A PTE R'2

Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act/Barrier Beach Resources
(as defined in the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and Regulations)

The primary state legal requirements with which the barrier beach manager
developing a management plan must comply are found in the Massachusetts Wetlands
Protection Act and Regulations (Mass. General Laws Chapter 13 1, �40; 3 10 Code of
Mass. Regulations 10.00). Under this Act and its Regulations, the various component
parts of the barrier beach system have been defined and their functions detailed. This
Chapter presents those legal definitions, the specified functions of each resource area,
and summarizes the performance standards for each resource area.

Each resource area associated with barrier beach systems is discussed, with
pertinent information in the following categories:
* Definitions (including exact wording from the Regulations and additional
information to clarify meaning);
9 Function (including "presumptions of significance," critical characteristics,
physical processes, and biological processes); and
* Summary of Wetlands Protection Regulatory Performance Standards.

The barrier beach-related resource areas as listed in the Massachusetts
Wetlands Protection Act and Regulations are:
* Barrier Beaches
* Coastal Beaches and Tidal flats
e Coastal Dunes
* Salt Marshes
9 Land Containing Shellfish
9 Land Under Salt Ponds
9 Land Under the Ocean

This Chapter also contains a separate section on rare species wildlife habitat.
Note that the Wetlands Protection Act and Regulations require safeguards for rare
species habitat that are in addition to the regulatory performance standards for
general wildlife habitat. This section is entitled:

* Protection of Rare Species Habitat

[Fresh water wetland resources, such as bogs, can also be present on banier beaches.
For those perfonnance standards, see the Mass. Wetlands Protection Act and
Regulations at 310 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.55-60.1

General Information

Barrier beach systems are subject to a plethora of federal, state, and municipal
statutes, bylaws/ordinances and regulations. The primary federal and state authorities
are summarized in Chapter 1, while a more complete listing of federal and state laws
appears in Appendix E.
Of the state requirements, the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and
Regulations are extremely important for beach stewards to understand because many
activities on barrier beaches must comply with the performance standards found in the
Regulations.
The Task Force offers the following regulatory summaries as a service to
barrier beach stewards, but recommends a careful reading of the Act and Regulations
prior to undertaking management activities. In addition, the Task Force recommends
that beach managers consult with their municipal conservation commission or the
Mass. Department of Environmental Protection to determine whether proposed
management activities fall within the Wetlands Protection Act's jurisdiction. The
Department of Environmental Protection has developed "Recommended Conditions
for Bat?ier Beaches, " found in Appendix 1, to assist barrier beach managers in meeting
the regulatory performance standards
The "Definition" sections found in this Chapter are quoted from the Wetlands
Regulations, but the "Functions" and "Performance Standards" sections are not; the
"Functions" sections contains additional information not found in the Wetlands
Regulations, while the "Performance Standards" sections are summaries of the
regulatory requirements for each resource area. Consult the appropriate section of
310. Code of Mass. Regulations 10.00 for the exact regulatory language.
Baffier beach managers should also note that municipalities are free to adopt
wetlands bylaws/ordinances and regulations which provide greater levels of protection
than contained in the state Wetlands Protection Act and Regulations. (See Loveguist
v. Conservation Commission of Dennis 379 Mass. 7 (1979).) The Task Force
recommends that beach managers consult with their municipal conservation
commissions to learn more about local requirements.

Barrier Beaches
(310 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.29)

Definition

Barrier Beach means a narrow low-lying strip of land generally consisting of
coastal beaches and coastal dunes extending roughly parallel to the trend of
the coast. It is separated from the mainland by a narrow body of fresh,
brackish or saline water or a marsh system. A barrier beach may be joined to
the mainland at one or both ends. [310 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.29(2)]

This definition is more fully discussed in Chapter I of these Guidelines.

Functfons

The Wetland Regulations presume that barrier beaches, including all of their
coastal dunes, are significant to storm damage prevention, flood control, the
protection of marine fisheries, wildlife habitat, and where there are shellfish, to land
containing shellfish. "Significant" is defined in the Regulations to mean 11plays a role"
in protecting any of the interests.

Critical Characteristics, Physical and Biological Processes
The characteristics of a barrier beach which are critical to the protection of
the interests listed above are those critical characteristics listed for coastal beaches,
tidal flats, and coastal dunes, as well as the barrier beach's ability to respond to wave
action, including storm overwash sediment transport.
The physical and biological processes of barrier beaches are discussed in detail
in Chapter 1 of these Guidelines. In addition, the physical and biological processes
of coastal beaches, tidal flats, and coastal dunes are discussed in more detail in the
Sections of this Chapter pertaining to each Resource Area.

Summ&y of Wetlands Protection Regulatory Performance Standards

When a barrier beach is significant to storm damage prevention, flood control,
marine fisheries or the protection of wildlife habitat, the following performance
standards apply:
e Each of the performance standards listed for coastal beaches and for
all coastal dunes which make up a barrier beach (see Sections entitled
"Coastal Beaches and Tidal Flats" and "Coastal Dunes".in this Chapter).
* No project may be permitted which will have any adverse effect on the
habitat of state-listed rare vertebrate or invertebrate species (See Section
entitled, "Protection of Rare Species Habitat" for more information on this
standard).

3.9

Coastal Beaches and ridal Flats
(310 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.27)

fWinffions

Coastal Beach means unconsolidated sediment subject to wave, tidal and
coastal storm action which forms the gently sloping shore of a body of salt
water and includes tidal flats. Coastal beaches extend from the mean low
water line landward to the dune line, coastal bankline or the seaward edge of
existing man-made structures, when these structures replace one of the above
lines, whichever is closest to the ocean. P10 Code of Mass. Regulations
10.27(2)(a)]

Tidal Flat means any nearly level part of a coastal beach which usually
extends from the mean low water line landward to the more steeply sloping
face of the coastal beach or which may be separated from the beach by land
under the ocean. [310 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.27(2)(b)]

The size of the unconsolidated sediments which make up coastal beaches may
range from very fine particles to small rocks several inches in diameter, as on a
shingle or cobble beach. Tidal flats are commonly found both along exposed
shorelines and in protected estuarine areas. They may be completely surrounded by
water at mean low water and may or may not be connected to the rest of the beach.

Funcdons

The Wetland Regulations presume that coastal beaches, including tidal flats,
are significant to the interests of storm damage prevention, flood control, and the
protection of wildlife habitat. In addition, the Regulations presume that tidal flats are
significant to the protection of marine fisheries and, where there are shellfish, to land
containing shellfish. "Significant" is defined in the Regulations to mean "plays a role"
in protecting any of the interests.

Critical Characteristics
The characteristics of coastal beaches which are critical to -,storm damage
prevention or flood control are the ability of the coastal beach to respond to wave
action, and the volume (quantity of sediments) and form of the beach. The
character.istics of coastal beaches which are critical to the protection of marine
fisheries or wildlife habitat are the distribution of sediment grain size, water
circulation, water quality, and relief and elevation.

Physical Processes
Coastal beaches serve as a sediment source for dunes and subtidal areas and
for downdrift coastal areas. Sediments move from subtidal areas to beaches to dunes
and back again, in a constant shifting of sediment caused by wind and waves. Coastal

beaches prevent storm damage and contribute to flood control by dissipating wave
energy, reducing the height of storm waves, and providing sediment to other coastal
features which, in turn, enhance those same features.

Biological Processes
Tidal flats provide many critical links in the marine food web. They are sites
where organic and inorganic materials, may be entrapped and recycled into the water
column for reuse by algae and other primary producers. Tidal flats are valuable
habitats for many invertebrates, including a variety of polychaete worms and bivalve
and gastropod mollusks. These organisms utilize plankton and microalgal-produced
nutrients and detritus and contribute extraordinary numbers of larvae to the food web.
These larvae in turn provide a valuable food source for the young stages of
commercially-important fish and crustaceans, as well as for migratory and wintering
shorebirds. Adult invertebrates that live in tidal flats provide food for a variety of
species, including the commercially valuable winter flounder and crustaceans.
Coastal beaches are extremely important in recycling nutrients derived from storm
drift and tidal action. Vegetative debris along the drift (or wrack) line is vital for
resident and migratory shorebirds, which feed on invertebrates that eat this
vegetation. The intertidal zone below the wrack line on coastal beaches supports
many invertebrates such as mollusks and crustacea which are also eaten by shorebirds.
A number of birds nest on the coastal berm between the toe of a dune and the high
tide line. Isolated coastal beaches on small islands provide relatively predator-free
areas for coastal birds to rest, feed, and nest in, and some such islands are important
haul-out areas for harbor seals. Detailed information on staging areas for migratory
shorebirds is found in Appendix D.

Summary of Wetlands Protection Regulatory Performance Standards

When a coastal beach is significant to storm damage prevention, flood control
or the protection of wildlife habitat, the following performance standards apply:
9 Any project on a coastal beach (with a few specified exceptions as stated
in the Wetlands Protection Act Regulations) must not have an adverse effect
by increasing erosion, decreasing the volume or changing the form of any
coastal beach or an adjacent or downdrift coastal beach.
0 Any groin, jetty, solid pier, or other solid rill structure which will
interfere with littoral drift, in addition to complying with the foregoing
standard, must be constructed as follows:
- It must be the minimum length and height demonstrated to be
necessary to maintain beach form and volume. In evaluating necessity,
coastal engineering, physical oceanographic and/or coastal geologic
information must be considered;
Immediately after construction, any groin must be filled to
entrapment capacity in height and length with sediment of grain size
compatible with that of the adjacent beach;
Jetties trapping littoral drift material must contain a by-pass system
to transfer sediments to the downdrift side. of the inlet or must be
periodically redredged to provide beach nourishment to ensure that
downdrift or adjacent beaches are not starved of sediments.

Migratory ShowbLm&

A number of locations in the Bay State are vital to the migration of arctic shorebirds.
These sites typically are places with unusually high biological productivity with rich invertebrate
food resources favored by shorebirds to rapidly accumulate fat necessary for their 2,000-mile
nonstop flights over the Atlantic Ocean to landfalls in northeastern South America. Only one
species, Black-bellied Plover, gathers in Massachusetts in substantial numbers during northward
migration. On the other hand, most shorebirds are migrating southward during the peak of the
summer outdoor recreational season (July through mid-September). During lower tides,
shorebirds are widely distributed over large expanses of tidal flats, and generally have alternate
locations they can use when disturbed. In contrast, habitat requirements for resting areas seem
quite specific, and at most staging areas there are few high tide resting sites available, so when
disturbance occurs the species frequently have no or few alternative sites to use. Finally, the
amount of coastal space available to'shorebirds is substantially less at high tide times than at
low tide times.

Shorebirds Defined
The Massachusetts coast plays a critical role in the international migration systems of
a variety of shorebirds that are ephemeral visitors to New England, visiting during their
migratory journeys between arctic nesting grounds of Canada and Alaska, and wintering
grounds, which for some kinds, are as distant as the southernmost coasts of South America.
Technically speaking, shorebirds are the sandpipers, plovers and their allies. They do
not include other coastal birds such as terns'or gulls. In spite of their name, many shorebirds
are not coastal birds; some are upland animals, some use fresh water wetlands, and one -- the
Woodcock -- is essentially a woodland bird. But most species of shorebirds are essentially
coastal marine animals for much of their life.

Management and Conservation
Shorebirds making stopovers on Massachusetts coastal beaches and tidal flats include
some of the earliest southbound migrants seen in New England. Earliest birds appear during
the first week of July. Peak numbers occur during the last third of July and the first third of
August, also the peak beach recreation season in coastal New England. One species, the
Dunlin, migrates substantially later with peak numbers occurring during October and
November.
Just as an aircraft must store an enormous volume of fuel before a long flight, so too
must migratory birds. Instead of petroleum, bird reserves are layers of fat accumulated prior
to departure. A typical shorebird leaves Massachusetts after visiting 10-14 days and weighing
60% more than when it arrived.
It is this basic, ingrained need to gain fat which underlies most of the conservation
issues faced in trying to protect shorebird migration systems.
In order to get the fat, shorebirds must consume enormous amounts of food. Indeed,
because of their high body temperatures, and their high activity levels, even meeting daily
metabolic requirements requires huge amounts of food.
There are few areas where shorebirds can meet their fattening requirements for
migration. Important areas in Massachusetts include the Ipswich, Merrimac, North & South
and Parker River Estuaries, and tidal embayments such the Pleasant and Nauset Bay regions,
Plymouth/Kingston/Duxbury Bays, and Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge. The Westport
River estua Iry also is important to the DunIin. [For a complete listing of important migrating
shorebird staging areas, see Appendix D.)

Beach nourishment with clean sediment of a grain size compatible with that
on the existing beach may be permitted.

When a tidal flat is significant to marine fisheries or the protection of wildlife
habitat, the following performance standards apply:
In addition to complying with the requirements for coastal beaches,
a project on a tidal flat must, if water-dependent, be designed and constructed
using the best available measures to minimize adverse effects, and if the
project is non-water-dependent, it must have no adverse effect, on marine
fisheries or wildlife habitat caused by:
- alterations in water circulation;
- alterations in the distribution.of sediment grain size; and
- changes in water quality, including, but not limited to, other than
natural fluctuations in the levels of dissolved oxygen, temperature or
turbidity, or the addition of pollutants..
No project may be permitted on a coastal beach or tidal flat which
wiff.have any adverse effect on specified habitat sites of rare vertebrate or
invertebrate species (See Section entitled, "Protection of Rare Species
Habitat" for more information on this standard).

While visiting Massachusetts, shorebirds need two types of habitat resources: good
feeding areas and relatively undisturbed resting areas. Coastal intertidal flats are used for
feeding during lower tidal periods (day or night) whereas resting areas, typically coastal barrier
beaches, or sometimes high salt marsh, are used during higher tidal periods, generally for the
three hours either side of high tide times. Best feeding areas generally are in sheltered tidal
waters of estuaries and bays where small sediment grain size is associated with high abundance
and availability of 'invertebrate animal prey (small worms, crustaceans, and noncommercially-
important bivalves.)
Habitat requirements of shorebirds at resting areas seem quite specific; virtually all are
close to the feeding flats, are open habitats affording shorebirds good view of approaching
predators, and are relatively undisturbed locations. At most coastal migration staging areas
there are few high tide resting sites available, so when disturbance occurs shorebirds frequently
have few, if any, alternative sites to use. Finally, the amount of coastal space available to
shorebirds is substantially less at high tide than at low tide. Recent studies in Plymouth have
shown that chronic disturbance of resting sites is associated with a steady decline in shorebird
numbers.
Because most shorebirds are migrating southward during the peak outdoor recreational
season (July through mid-September), and competing with humans for some of the most
popular coastal resources, shorebird management efforts are most needed at this season. In
general, management efforts are particularly needed to reduce chronic disturbance of resting
areas during high tide periods; during lower tides shorebirds are widely distributed over large
expanses of tidal flats, and generally have alternate locations they can use when disturbed.

Shorebirds as a Recreational Resource
Birdwatching is a popular outdoor recreational activity in coastal Massachusetts, so
managing for abundant and diverse birdlife is warranted. Shorebirds are an importantsummer
attraction to birdwatchers, including many that.visit the coast from distant states to see
migrating shorebirds. Minimizing disturbance of shorebird habitat from birdwatchers and other
beach users will help ensure that the Massachusetts coast remains an important recreational
resource to naturalists.

Figure 8. Coastal dunes with beach grass (courtesy of Mass. Department of
Environmental Management).

Coastal Dunes
(310 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.26)

nofinNon

Coastal Dune means any natural hill, mound or ridge of sediment landward
of a coastal beach deposited bywind action or storm overwash. Coastal dune
also means sediment deposited by artificial means and serving the purpose of
storm damage prevention or flood control. [310 Code of Mass. Regulations
10.28(2)]

Funcdons

The Wetland Regulations presume that coastal dunes are significant to storm
damage prevention, flood control, and the protection of wildlife habitat. This is
particularly true of the coastal dunes closest to the coastal beach. On barrier beaches,
the Wetlands Regulations presume that all coastal dunes (no matter how far from the
coastal beach) are per se significant to storm damage prevention and flood control.
"Significant" is defined in the Regulations to mean "plays a role" in protecting any of
the interests.

Critical Characteristics
The characteristics of coastal dunes which are critical to storm damage
prevention, flood control, and the protection of wildlife habitat are:

1) Erosional Capability: the ability of coastal dunes to erode in response to
coastal beach conditions. Ile erosion of coastal dunes by waves, usually
during storms, supplies sand to the adjacent coastal beach.
2) Coastal Dune Form and Volume: the volume and form (height and width) of
coastal dunes provide a buffer which resists wave approach during storms and
retards stormline retreat. Coastal dune form and volume are the result of a
combination of factors, the most important of which are wind and vegetation.
Natural water flow, in the form of storm overwash, is also an important
process in controlling coastal dune form and volume, because through this
mechanism, sand is carried landward to initiate dune formation.
3) Vegetative Cover: vegetation contributes to the growth and stability of coastal
dunes by providing conditions favorable to sand deposition. Wrack material,
such as beachgrass stems, is carried to the strand line by wind and wave
activity where it accumulates and often is buried by sand blowing from the
coastal beach. Seeds of many plants become mixed with these materials and
may subsequently germinate.
4) Ability of the Dune to Move Landward or Laterally: on shorelines, coastal
dunes bordering the coastal beach move landward and laterally in response to
the prevailing predominant winds with the rest of the shoreline. This allows

coastal dunes to maintain their form and volume. If the dune was not allowed
to continually build landward, the dune would gradually be eroded from the
seaward side and would become smaller and smaller, and would therefore be
more likely to be completely washed away in a storm with its protective values
lost altogether.
5) Ability of the Dune to Continue Serving as Bird Nesting Habitat: several
species of birds, including tems and piping plovers, nest in dunes and depend
upon the type (or lack) of vegetative cover, topography, and hydrologic
regime of the dune system.

Physical Processes
The set of dunes closest to the coastal beach are the ones that are nearly
always significant to storm damage prevention and flood control, and are therefore
subject to the performance standards summarized below. The dunes behind the one
or two rows of dunes closest to the beach may contribute to storm damage prevention
and flood control, but are less likely to do so than the front dunes. However, on
barrier beaches, all coastal dunes are alwpM significant to these interests.
Artificially constructed dunes are included in the definition because they also
play a role in protecting inland properties from storm waves and flooding.
All coastal dunes on a barrier beach are important because their volume
constitutes the major portion of the total volume of the barrier beach above high
water and each line of dunes is intricately related. The volume and form provide a
buffer from storm waves and elevated sea levels for landward properties and landward
coastal wetlands.
Coastal flora are also important to the functioning of coastal dune systems.

Biological Processes
A variety of birds, seabirds, shorebirds and song birds nest at the base or sides
of dunes and in the interdunal area. The particular species that utilize these habitats
vary depending upon vegetative community cover, topography, and hydrologic regime.
Wet meadows or vernal pool habitats occur in a few dune systems, serving as
important feeding areas for a wide variety of bird species. Dune systems also support
a variety of mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates.

SUMM&Y of Weffwds ProteCtfon Regulatory Performwce StWdc-vds

When a coastal dune is significant to storm damage prevention, flood control
or the protection of wildlife habitat, the following performance standards apply:
0 Any alteration of, or structure on, a coastal dune or within 100 feet
of a coastal dune must not have an adverse effect on the coastal dune by:
- affect ing the ability of waves to remove sand from the dune;
- disturbing the vegetative cover so as to destabilize the dune;
- causing any modification of the dune form that would increase the
potential for storm or flood damage;
- interfering with the landward or lateral movement of the
dune;
- causing removal of sand from the dune artificially; or

interfering with mapped or otherwise identified bird nesting
habitat.
When a building already exists upon a coastal dune, a project accessory to
the existing building may be permitted, provided that such work, using the
best commercially available measures, minimizes the adverse effect on the
coastal dune caused by the impacts listed above.
0 The following projects may be permitted, provided that they have
no adverse effect on the coastal dune caused by the impacts listed above:
- pedestrian walkways, designed to minimize the disturbance
to the vegetative cover and traditional bird nesting habitat;
- fencing and other devices designed to increase dune development,
and direct vehicular and pedestrian traffic; and
- plantings compatible with the natural vegetative cover.
No project may be permitted which will have any adverse effect on the
habitat of state-listed rare vertebrate or invertebrate species (See Section
entitled, "Protection of Rare Species Habitat" for more information on this
standard).

AA& SMIN TIDES Ik EQUINOCTAL HIGH TIDE

DItWTLI"E
SPRING TIDE
Sall Salicornio. DRIFTILINE
Panne
eaccholis Phrogmiles Juncas HIGH TIDE
1. & Gorardi Spartino Patens
Allyrica T,,1. a
Rhas Radicans Distichfis SpIcato spartima M.S. L.

upper Lower (short) (fall). LOW TI
Ma:orv
Upper Lower Flats Eel

Marsh Low Marsh It
)hrub Reedgross High
Border Marsh

Figure 9. Salt marsh zonation for New England.

Sak Marshes
(310 Code of Mass. Regulabons 10.32)

Definidon

Salt Marsh means a coastal wetland that extends landward up to the highest
high tide line, that is, the highest spring tide of the year, and is characterized
by plants that are well adapted to or prefer living in, saline soils. Dominant
plants within salt marshes are salt meadow cord grass (Spartina patens) and/or
salt marsh cord grass (Spartina altemiflora). A salt marsh may contain tidal
creeks, ditches and pools. [310 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.32(2)(a)]

Salt marshes are usually located adjacent to tidal waters. Salt marshes are flat,
open areas characterized by grasses that are bordered by upland or inland wetland
vegetation.

FuncHons

The Wetland Regulations presume that salt marshes are significant to the
protection of marine fisheries, wildlife habitat, and where there are shellfish, to the
protection of land containing shellfish, to the prevention of pollution, to storm
damage prevention, and to ground water supply. "Significant" is defined in the
Regulations to mean "plays a role" in protecting any of the interests.

Critical Characteristics
The characteristics of salt marshes which are critical to the protect 'ion of the
interests listed above are: 1) the growth, composition and distribution of salt marsh
vegetation; 2) the flow and level of tidal and fresh water; and 3) the presence and
depth of peat.

Physical Processes
Salt marsh cordgrass and underlying peat are resistant to erosion and dissipate
wave energy, thereby providing a buffer that reduces wave damage. The peat and
fine sediment material that underlie a salt marsh function as a barrier between the
fresh groundwater that is found landward of the salt marsh and the ocean. This
relatively impervious layer of peat acts essentially as a dam and thus serves to help
maintain the level of fresh groundwater, or the water table, in the adjacent upland
areas. The destruction or removal of this peat layer could create a drainage conduit
for groundwater which would lower the nearby water table.
Salt marsh plants and the sediments bound to their network of vegetative
roots and rhizomes act to reduce pollution of the coastal zone by absorbing and
binding contaminants such as chlorinated hydrocarbons and heavy metals delivered by
surface runoff from upland areas. Salt marsh can also retain nutrients such as

nitrogen and phosphorus that otherwise may contribute to algal blooms in coastal
waters.

Biological Processes
Salt marshes also play an important role in the protection of marine fisheries
and land containing shellfish, and provide important wildlife habitat. Salt marshes are
extremely productive natural systems that export large volumes of organic material
(detritus) to the ocean and estuaries where the detritus supports extensive marine
food chains. The basis of the coastal marine food web is the phytoplankton organisms
which depend, in part, on these nutrients for their productivity. Changes in the
growth or species composition of phytoplankton will directly affect the remainder of
the food web. . The young stages of many organisms entering the fisheries pass
through a planktonic stage during which the availability of phytoplanktonic food
organisms is a controlling factor in their survival. The total net production of salt
marsh grasses may be as much as three times higher than the total net production of
a Missouri tall grass prairie.
Salt marshes provide spawning and nursery areas for finfish as well as
important food, shelter, breeding areas, and migratory and overwintering areas for
many wildlife species. Many bird species feed on finfish, shellfish, and other food
species produced in salt marshes or through the salt marsh's contribution to the
marine food chain.

Summary of Wetlands PrOleCtbn Regulatory Performance SUndards

When a salt marsh is significant to the protection of marine fisheries,. the
prevention of pollution, storm damage prevention or ground water supply, the
following the following performance standards apply:
* A proposed project in a salt marsh, on land within 100 feet of a salt
marsh or in a body of water adjacent to a salt marsh must not destroy any
portion of the salt marsh and must not have an adverse effect on the
productivity of the salt marsh. Alterations in growth, distribution and
composition of salt marsh vegetation must be considered in evaluati ng adverse
effects on productivity. The harvesting of salt marsh hay is not prohibited.
0 A small project within a salt marsh, such as an elevated walkway or
other structure which has no adverse effects other than blocking sunlight from
the underlying vegetation for a portion of each day, may be permitted if the
project complies with all other applicable requirements of these regulations.
0 A project which will restore or rehabilitate a. salt marsh, or create
a salt marsh, may be permitted.
9 No project may be permitted which will have any adverse effect on the
habitat of state-listed rare vertebrate or invertebrate species. (See Section
entitled, "Protection of Rare Species Habitat" for more information on this
standard.)

Land Containing Shellfish
(310 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.34)

Definitions

Land containing shellflsh means land under the ocean, tidal flats, rocky
intertidal shores, salt marshes and land under salt ponds when any such land
contains shellfish. [310 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.34(2)(a)]

Shellrish means the following species: Bay scallop (Argopecten irradians);
Blue mussel (Mytilus edulis), Ocean quahog (Arctica islandica); Oyster
(Crassostrea vb*nica); Quahog (Mercenaria mercenaria); Razor clam (Ensis
directus) ; Sea clam (Spisuld sofidissima); Sea scallop (Placopecten
magellanicus); Soft shell clam (Mya arenaria). P10 Code of Mass.
Regulations 34(2)(b)]

Land containing shellfish differs from the other Resource Areas in that it is
both an interest to be protected under the Wetlands Act and a Resource Area.

Functions

The Wetland Regulations presume that "land containing shellfish" is significant
to the protection of shellfish resources as well as the protection of marine fisheries
when - it has been identified and mapped by the conservation commission or the
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, either based upon maps and
designations of the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries or upon maps and
written documentation of the shellfish constable. "Significant" is defined in the
Regulations to mean "plays a role" in protecting any of the interests.

Critical Characteristics
The characteristics of land containing shellfish which are critical to the
protection of the interests listed above are: shellfish; water quality; water circulation;
and the naturafrelief, elevation or distribution of sediment grain size of the land.

Physical Processes
The quality of water over land containing shellfish is affected by alterations
in salinity, dissolved oxygen, nutrients, turbidity, temperature and the addition of
pollutants. These physical and chemical characteristics influence shellfish in a number
of ways, including growth, reproduction and mortality. For example, various shellfish
species have particular salinity requirements. A salinity range of approximately 5-8
parts per thousand is the critical salinity boundary between fresh water and marine
faunas. Below this level of salinity, even the most hardy of marine organisms cannot
survive because a number of vital physiological processes are impaired.
Water circulation patterns help maintain the temperature, dissolved oxygen,
and salinity levels of waters over landcontaining shellfish, thereby helping to maintain

M- M-.r ---

Figure 10. Shellfish harvesting (courtesy of Mass. Department of
Environmental Management).

conditions needed for productive shellfish beds. Water currents also supply nutrients
and disperse pollutants.
Bivalves that burrow into sediments have specific depth and grain size
requirements. Thus, the natural relief, elevation, and distribution of sediment grain
size of land containing shellfish is important. The size of sediment grains has three
general effects on shellfish populations. First, the young of various species prefer
specific particle sizes in which to burrow. The success of adult shellfish, therefore,
depends on the availability of the specific particle size needed by the young. Second,
the young larval stages respond to the microstructure of the sediment surface and will
not settle successfully if particle size or texture is not suitable. Further, the success of
larvae which have settled and are undergoing metamorphosis may be affected by the
compaction of the surface layer of sediments. This compaction depends, in part, on
particle size and shape. Third, the oxygen tension in the water within the sediments
is partially a reflection of water circulation. This, in turn, is a function of the particle
size and compaction. Oxygen tension within water layers affects the mortality rate of
newly settled larvae.

Bioloocal Processes
Shellfish are: .1a nIimportant commercial, recreational and ecological resource
in Massachusetts. As a food source, shellfish are important to people because they are
high in protein and are produced in a relatively short period of time.
The ecological value of shellfish resources is less obvious, but no less
significant. As biological consumers, shellfish are a vital link between the abundant
phytoplankton and other important segments of the coastal ecosystem. As producers,
shellfish may be viewed in two ways. First, adult shellfish represent a valuable
resource to humans and to members of the marine ecosystem which feed directly or
indirectly on them. Second, the planktonic stages of shellfish which are produced in
extraordinary quantities during the spring and summer months in coastal waters
represent a significant source of food for the young life stages of marine fish and
crustaceans important to commercial and recreational fisheries. Therefore, the
maintenance of naturally productive shellfish beds plays a direct role in maintaining
fish stocks by supplying food to the young of commercially important fishes. Various
birds feed on immature and mature shellfish as well as on the other invertebrate food
species that are abundant in many shallow shellfish bed areas.

Summary of Wetlands Protection Regulatory Performance Standards

When a Resource Area, including land under the ocean, tidal flats, rocky
intertidal shores, salt marshes, or land under salt ponds is significant to the protection
of land containing shellfish and the protection of marine fisheries, the following
performance standards apply:
0 Any -project on land containing shellfish must not adversely affect
such land or marine fisheries by a change in the productivity of the land
caused by:
- alterations of water circulation;
- alterations in relief elevation;
- the compacting of sediment by vehicular traffic;

- alterations in the distribution of sediment grain size;
- alterations in natural drainage from adjacent land; or
- changes in water quality, including, but not limited to, other
than natural fluctuations in the levels of salinity, dissolved oxygen,
nutrients, temperature, or turbidity, or the addition of pollutants.
A project which temporarily has an adverse effect on shellfish productivity
but which does not permanently destroy the habitat may be permitted if the
land containing shellfish can and will be returned substantially to its former
productivity in less than one year from the commencement of work.
* For land containing shellfish that is significant because it has been
designated by the Mass. Division,of Marine Fisheries or the municipal
shellfish constable (except in Areas of Critical Environmental Concern), a
project may be permitted, if the shellfish are moved to a suitable location
after consultation with the shellfish constable and the Massachusetts Division
of Marine Fisheries. The project may not be commenced until after the
moving and replanting of shellfish has been commenced.
9 Projects approved by the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries that
are specifically intended to increase the productivity of land containing
shellfish may be permitted. Aquaculture projects approved by the appropriate
local and state authority may also be permitted.
* No project may be permitted which will have any adverse effect on the
habitat of state-listed rare vertebrate or invertebrate species (See Section
entitled, '.'Protection of Rare Species Habitat" for more information on this
standard).

Land Under Salt Ponds
(3-10 Code of Mass. Opgulations 10.3M

Definitfor;

Salt Pond means a shallow enclosed or semi-enclosed body of saline water
that may be partially or totally restricted by barrier beach formation. Salt
ponds may receive freshwater from small streams emptying into their upper
reaches and/or springs in the salt pond itself. P 10 Code of Mass. Regulations
10.33(2)]

Functfons

The Wetland Regulations presume that land under salt ponds is significant to
the protection of marine fisheries and wildlife habitat and, where there are shellfish,
to the protection of land containing shellfish. "Significant" is defined in the
Regulations to mean "plays a role" in protecting any of the interests.

Critical Characteristics
The characteristics of land under salt ponds which are critical to the protection
of the interests listed above are: water circulation, distribution of sediment grain size,
freshwater inflow, productivity of plants, and water quality.

Physical and Biological Processes
Salt ponds are areas of high marine productivity that may function as nursery
grounds for offshore fish, as well as supporting resident populations of commercially
important fish, mollusks and crustaceans. The abundance of these marine organisms
is dependent upon the primary production of phytoplankton, algae and other plant
communities that include eel grass and Spanina altemiflora . Salt ponds also provide
spawning areas for shellfish and are nursery areas for crabs and fish. In addition to
the many birds which feed on fish found in salt ponds, waterfowl also eat
invertebrates such as mollusks and crustaceans from salt ponds, and some bird species
eat rupia and eel grass which may be rooted in land under salt ponds.
The critical productivity of salt ponds also depends upon the freshwater inflow
and water circulation that enhance the availability of the essential nutrients required
for plant growth.

Summc-uy of Wetlands Protection Regulatory Performance Standards

When land under a salt pond is significant to the protection of marine
fisheries or wildlife habitat, the following performance standards apply:
9 Any project on land under a salt pond, on lands within 100 feet of
the mean high water line of a salt pond, or on land under a body of water
adjacent to a salt pond must not have an adverse effect on marine fisheries

or wildlife habitat of the salt pond caused by:
- alterations of water circulation;
- alterations in the distribution of sediment grain size and the
relief or elevation of the bottom topography;
- modifications in the flow of fresh and/or salt water;
- alterations in the productivity of plants, or
- alterations in water quality, including, but not limited to, other than
normal fluctuations in the level of dissolved oxygen, nutrients,
temperature or turbidity, or the addition of pollutants.
Projects specifically required and intended to maintain the depth and the
opening of a salt pond to the ocean in order to maintain or enhance the
marine fisheries or for the specific purpose of fisheries management may be
permitted.
* No project may be permitted which will have any adverse effect on the
habitat of state-listed rare vertebrate or invertebrate species (See Section
entitled, "Protection of Rare Species Habitat" for more information on this
standard).

Land Under the Ocean
L310 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.25)

Definiffon

Land Under the Ocean means land extending from the mean low water line
seaward to the boundary of the municipality's jurisdiction and includes land
under estuaries. PIO Code of Mass. Regulations 10.25(2)(a)]

Nearshore Areas of land under the ocean means that land extending
from the mean low water line to the seaward limit of a municipality's
jurisdiction, but in no case beyond the point where the land is 80 feet below
the level of the ocean at mean low water. However, the nearshore area shall
extend seaward only to that point where the land is 30 feet below the level
of the ocean at mean low water for municipalities bordering Buzzard's Bay
and Vineyard Sound ... 40 feet below the level of the ocean at mean low water
for Provincetown's land in Cape Cod Bay, and 50 feet below the level of the
ocean at mean low water for Truro's and Wellfleet's land in Cape Cod Bay.
[310 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.25(2)(b)]

Land under the ocean includes land under bays, estuaries and under portions
of rivers which are tidally influenced, such as the Taunton River in the Berkley and
Dighton area, as well as land under the open ocean out to the municipality's
boundary.

Funcfions

The Wetland Regulations presume that nearshore areas of land under the
ocean are significant to the protection of marine fisheries and, where there are
shellfish, to the protection of land containing shellfish, to storm damage prevention,
flood control, and the protection of wildlife habitat. The Wetland Regulations
presume that land under the ocean beyond the nearshore areas is significant to the
protection of marine fisheries and where there are shellfish, to the protection of land
containing shellfish. "Significant" is defined in the Regulations to mean "plays a role"
in protecting any of the interests.

Critical Characteristics
The characteristic of nearshore land under the ocean which is critical to the
protection of storm damage prevention or flood control is the bottom topography of
the land. The characteristics of land under the ocean which are critical to the
protection of marine fisheries and wildlife habitat are: water circulation, distribution
of sediment grain size, water quality, finfish habitat, and important food for wildlife.

Physical Processes
Nearshore areas of land under the ocean (generally areas up to 80 feet of

depth below mean low water, or to a lesser depth in certain specified areas near the
Cape and Islands) play an important role in storm dama prevention an
ge d flood
control.
As waves travel from deep to nearshore areas, the natural bottom topography
changes their direction and height because of refraction, bottom friction and
percolation. Ile effect of these changes is to reduce the energy of the waves, thereby
reducing storm damage and flooding.
The amount of wave energy which reaches the shoreline also depends, in part,
upon how much energy is lost as the wave shoals, prior to breaking. Ile shallower
the water and more gradual the slope, the greater the loss of energy. Energy is also
lost due to the pumping action of shoaling waves, that is, the forcing of water
(percolation) into the sea bed. Submerged bars also help dissipate storm wave energy.
Nearshore areas of land under the ocean also serve as a sediment source for
coastal beaches and coastal dunes.

Biological Processes
Land under the ocean (including nearshore areas), which includes estuaries
and tidal rivers, plays an important role in maintaining shellfish and marine fisheries.
Such land provides habitat for productive plant communities, such as eelgrass bcds,
that produce large amounts of particulate matter and dissolved nutrients which
support marine organisms such as pbytoplankton and detritovore populations. These
organisms, in turn, are prey for bottom dwelling, or benthic, organisms. Many species
of commercially valuable fish consume both plankton and benthic organisms at some
point in their life cycle.
Such land also provides spawning and nursery sites for fish, crustaceans, and
shellfish, and prime feeding and shelter habitat for adult organisms which comprise
the commercial and recreational fisheries.
Nearshore areas of land under the ocean provide important habitat for birds.
Waterfowl feed heavily on vegetation (such as eel grass, widgeon grass, and
macrophytic algae) and invertebrates (such as polychaetes and mollusks) found in
estuaries and other shallow submerged land under ocean. Coastal waterbirds such as
terns, gulls, and herons feed on fish in these areas.

Summary of Webands Protection Regulatory Performance Standards

When land under the ocean is significant to the protection of marine fisheries.,
protection of wildlife habitat, storm damage prevention or flood control, the following
performance standards apply:
0 Improvement dredging for navigational purposes must be designed
and carried out using best available measures to minimize adverse effects
caused by changes in:
- bottom topography which will result in increased flooding or
erosion caused by an increase in the height or velocity of waves
impacting the shore;
- sediment transport processes which will increase flood or erosion
hazards by affecting the natural replenishment of beaches;
- water circulation which will result in an adverse change in flushing

rate, temperature, or turbidity levels; or
marine productivity which will result from the suspension or
transport of pollutants, the smothering of bottom organisms, the
accumulation of pollutants by organisms, or the destruction of marine
fisheries habitat or wildlife habitat.
Maintenance dredging for navigational purposes must be designed
and carried out using the best available measures to minimize adverse impacts
caused by changes in marine productivity which will result from the suspension
or transport of pollutants, increases in turbidity, the smothering of bottom
organisms, the accumulation of pollutants by organisms, or the destruction of
marine fisheries habitat or wildlife habitat.
0 Projects other than improvement or maintenance dredging must not
cause adverse effects by altering the bottom topography so as to increase
storm damage or erosion of coastal beaches, coastal banks, coastal dunes, or
salt marshes.
0 Projects other than improvement dredging must, if water-dependent,
be design'ed and constructed using best available measures to minimize
adverse effects, and if non-water-dependent, must have no adverse effects, on
marine fisheries habitat or wildlife habitat caused by:
- alterations in water circulation;
- destruction of eelgrass (Zostera mwina ) or widgeon grass (Rupia
maritina ) beds;
- alterations in the distribution of sediment grain size;
- changes in water quality, including, but not limited to, other
than natural fluctuations in the level of dissolved oxygen, temperature
or turbidity, or the addition of pollutants; or
- alterations of shallow submerged lands with high densities of
polychaetes, mollusks, or macrophytic algae.
No project may be permitted which will have any adverse effect on the
habitat of state-listed rare vertebrate or invertebrate species (See Section
entitled, "Protection of Rare Species Habitat" for more information on this
standard).

Protection of Rare Species Habitat
(310 Code of Mass. Rpgulgons 10.3n

EWiniffons

Estimated Habitat Maps (see opposite page) of state-listed vertebrate and
invertebrate occurrences are provided by the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and
Wildlife's Natural Heritaee & Endangered Species Program as a service to municipal
conservation commissions who are charged with protecting rare species habitat under
the Wetlands Protection Act. These maps define the estimated geographical extent
of habitats of all listed rare wetland wildlife species for which occurrences have been
reported and documented to the satisfaction of the Program.

The Mass. Department of Environmental Protection defers to the scientific
opinions of the Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's Natural Heritage and
Endangered Species Program in determining the location and extent of actual habitat
of state-listed rare species. The Department also relies on the Natural Heritage
Program to determine whether a proposed activity will have an adverse effect,
whether short- or long-term, on the habitat of the local rare species population. The
Heritage Program's opinion is presumed to be correct and may be overcome only
upon a clear showing to the contrary.

See the next chapter of this document for a complete list of rare species likely
to be associated with barrier beach ecosystems.

Function

Rare species wildlife habitat provides all the requisite essentials for
breeding, nesting, foraging and resting for the species listed at 310 Code of Mass.
Regulations 10.60. Certain rare, state-listed species have specialized requirements
that are met by the ecosystem on barrier beaches. Selected species, which barrier
beach managers are particularly likely to encounter, are discussed further on in this
document.

Summary of Welfc-inds Protection Regulatory Performance Standards

When a project is proposed to alter a Resource Area which is part of the
actual habitat of a state-listed species, the following performance standard applies:
* No project may be permitted which will have any short or long-term
adverse effect on the habitat of the local population of that species.

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Figure 11 - Mass. Natural Heritage and Endangered Species
Program map of estimated habitats of state-
listed rare wetlands wildlife for Gloucester.

The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife acts as the scientific
authority in making this determination. A determination made by the Division is
presumed to be correct, although it can be rebutted by a clear demonstration of
contrary information before a municipal conservation commission.

Appendix H, the Division's "Guidelines for Managing Recreational Use of
Beaches to Protect Piping Plovers, Terns, and Their Habitats in Massachusetts," and
Appendix 1, the Department of Environmental Protection's "Recommended
Conditions for Barrier Beaches," should be consulted for additional information and
recommended conditions.

CHAPTER 3

Other Federal and State Statutes Applicable to Barrier Beaches

Several other federal and state laws' are important for beach managers to
understand in carrying out their responsibilities on barrier beaches. This Chapter
discusses some of the most important of these federal and state statutes and their
applicability to Massachusetts barrier beaches.

Where appropriate, this Chapter includes for each piece of legislation the
following information:
* General Explanation; and
9 Summary of Regulatory Requirements.

The laws discussed in this Chapter are:
9 Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S. Code 1531);
9 Mass. Endangered Species Act (Mass. General Laws Chapter 131A);
and
* Mass. Historical Commission.

Additional statutes and regulations which may be of interest to barrier beach
stewards are found in Chapter 1 -- "A Beach Manager's Guide to the Regulations,"
and Appendices E -- "Federal, State, Regional, and Municipal Laws"and K -- "Access
for the Physically Challenged."

Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973
(16 United States Code 1531)

This law, and the regulations promulgated thereunder, authorize the U.S.
Department of the Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service to list, based on the best
available biological data, plants and animals determined to be "Endangered" or
"Threatened." "Critical Habitat" designations are based on biological and other
information.
If the following federally listed Endangered and Threatened species occur on
Massachusetts barrier beaches, their presence may have significant management
implications for beach managers.

SPECIES STATUS
bald eagle Endangered
peregrine falcon Endangered
piping plover Threatened
roseate tern Endangered,
Northeastern beach tiger beetle Threatened

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service also has a list of rare flora and fauna found
on barrier beaches in Massachusetts.

Direct or indirect habitat-altering activities may adversely affect listed species.
Of particular importance in Massachusetts are the following species:

1) Bald eagle: Eagles,may appear along barrier -beaches at any season of the year.
Barrier beaches are important to eagles primarily for foraging purposes. Eagles
primarily seek carrion--dead fish, birds and mammals--scavenged on sand/mudflats and
along the tide line.
2) Peregrine falcon: Migrant peregrine falcons may appear along barrier beaches
at any time of the year, but are most frequently noted in September-October and
more occasionally through the winter months to the end of May. The entire barrier
beach functions as a feeding ground for the peregrine falcon. Prey consists primarily
of birds.
3) Piping plover: Massachusetts barrier beaches provide some of the most
important nesting habitat for this species on the Atlantic Seaboard. [See more
complete discussion in Chapter 2 and the next section.]
4) Roseate tern: Small numbers of roseate terns, occur within larger common tern
colonies on barrier beaches in Massachusetts. These seabirds use isolated dune areas
for nesting and rearing their young. Large sandflat areas adjacent to the dunes
function as "nursery grounds" for recently fledged young, and, in some cases, as
11staging areas" for birds prior to fall migration. [See more complete discussions in
Chapter 2 and the next section.]

5) Northeastern beach tiger beetle: This tiger beetle formerly inhabited wide,
sandy beaches throughout much of the northeastern United States. Today only a
single population occurs north of Maryland, on a privately-owned beach on Martha's
Vineyard. Adults feed on insects, amphipods, and carrion, and larvae inhabit burrows
in upper portions of the intertidal zone. Larvae appear to be destroyed by off-road
vehicles, heavy pedestrian traffic, and severe storms. Habitat may be further degraded
by coastal development and beach stabilization structures.

Summcvy of Regulatoiy Requirements

Federal regulations prohibit "taking," including harassing, harming, pursuing,
hunting, shooting, wounding, killing, trapping, capturing, or collecting listed wildlife
species; as well as attempting to engage in such conduct; or causing such acts to be
committed. In addition, federal agencies must consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlire
Service prior to undertaking, authorizing, or funding any activity that may affect listed
species.
In 1979, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Massachusetts Division of
Fisheries and Wildlife executed a Cooperative Agreement, as provided under Section
6 of the U.S. Endangered Species Act, under which the two agencies share some
responsibilities for management of fedefally-listed species. These species also occur
on the "Massachusetts List of Endangered, Threatened, and Special Concern Species."
For non-federal entities, compliance with the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act
and the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, as defined in these Guidelines@ will
generally assure compliance with the prohibitions on "take" contained in federal law.
However, federal agencies are further obligated to conduct a "Section 7 consultation"
under the U.S. Endangered Species Act for proposed activities that may affect listed
species.

Massachusetts Endangered Species Act
(Mass. General Laws
Chapter 131A: 321 Code of Mass. Rqgulations 10.QW

This law and the regulations promulgated thereunder establish procedures for
the listing of Endangered, Threatened and Special Concern species native to
Massachusetts, and the designation of "Significant Habitat" for Endangered and
Threatened species, and establish rules and prohibitions regarding activities which
could result in a "taking" of such species or alter "significant habitat."

Rare species of plants and animals that are likely to occur on Massachusetts
barrier beaches and are officially listed as Endangered, Threatened or Special
Concern by the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (321 Code of Mass.
Regulations 10.60) are listed below. For a complete listing, refer to the Regulations.

ANIMAL SPECIES STATUS
Diamondback Terrapin Threatened
Short-eared Owl Endangered
Piping Plover Threatened
Northern Harrier Endangered
Peregrine Falcon Endangered
Bald Eagle Endangered
Least Tern Special Concern
Roseate Tern Endangered
Common Tern Special Concern
Arctic Tern Special Concern
Gray Seal Special Concern
Northeastern Beach Tiger Beetle Endangered

PLANT SPECIES STATUS
Seabeach Amaranth (Amaranthus pumilus) Historical
Purple Needlegrass (Aristida purpurascens) Threatened
Seabeach Needlegrass (Aristida tuberculosa) Special Concern
Pygmyweed (Crassula aquatica) Threatened
Common's Panic-grass Special Concern
(Dichanthelium commonsianum)
Mattamuskeet Panic-grass Endangered
(Dichanthelium mattamuskeetense)
Saltpond Grass (Diplache maritima) Threatened
Sea Lyme-grass (Elymus mollis) Endangered
Saltpond Pennywort Special Concern
(Hydrocotyle verticillata)
Oysterleaf (Mertensia maritima) Endangered
Pinnate Water Milfbil Special Concern
(Myriophyllum pinnatum)

Adder's Tongue Fern Threatened
(Ophioglossurn vulgatum)
Prickly Pear (Opuntia humifusurn) Threatened
Stigose Knotweed Special Concern
(Polygonum setaceum. var. interjectum)
Lion's Foot (Prenanthes serpentiaria) Endangered
Seabeach Dock (Rumex pallidus) Threatened
Knotted Pearlwort Threatened
(Sagina nodosa var. nodosa)
Bristly Foxtail (Setaria geniculata) Special Concern
Salt'Reedgrass (Spartina cynosuroides) Special Concern
American Sea-blite (Suaeda americana) Special Concern

Summary of Regulatory Requirements

Regulations pursuant to the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act prohibit
the "take" of any species of animal or plant listed as Endangered, Threatened or
Species of Special Concern in Massachusetts. In reference to animals, "take" means
to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, hound, kill, trap, capture, collect, process, disrupt
the nesting, breeding, feeding or migratory activity or attempt to engage in any such
conduct, or to assist in such conduct. In reference to plants, "take" means to collect,
pick, kill, transplant, cut or process or attempt to engage or to assist in any such
conduct. The regulations further state that: "All state agencies shall utilize their
Authorities in furtherance of the purposes of the Massachusetts Endangered Species
Act and these regulations; review, evaluate and determine the impact on Endangered,
Threatened and Special Concern species or their habitats of all works, projects or
activities conducted by them; and use all practicable means and measures to avoid or
minimize damage to such species or their habitats'." This includes any work, project
or activity either directly undertaken by a state agency or indirectly by other parties
with funds provided by a state agency.
The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife has prepared "Guidelines
for Managing Recreational Use of Beaches to Protect Piping Plovers, Terns, and
Their Habitats in Massachusetts," found in Appendix H, to assist barrier beach
managers in meeting these regulatory requirements.

Piping Plover

Piping plovers are small, sand-colored shorebirds that nest on sandy beaches
along the Atlantic Coast from South Carolina to Newfoundland. The U.S. Atlantic
Coast population is listed as "Threatened" by the U.S. Department of the Interior's
Fish & Wildlife Service under provisions of the U.S. Endangered Species Act of 1973
and was estimated at 790 pairs in 1992 (a 6% increase over the previous year). fn
Massachusetts, the piping plover is also listed as "Threatened" by the Massachusetts
Division of Fisheries and Wildlife under provisions of the Massachusetts Endangered
Species Act. An estimated 290 pairs nested in Massachusetts in 1993, from Plum Island
south to the Rhode Island border and east to Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard and
Nantucket.
Piping plovers nest on coastal beaches above the high-tide line, sand flats at
the end of sand spits, gently sloping foredunes and in blow-out or washover areas
between or behind primary dunes. They also nest on areas where sandy dredged
material has been deposited. Nests are simple "scrapes" in the sand or mbdures of
sand, gravel and shells. Nests are placed on open sand or in patches of sparse to
moderately dense beach grass and other dune vegetation. Piping plovers are
dependent upon natural processes of beach erosion and accretion through wind and
wave action to maintain areas of suitable nesting habitat.
Piping plovers return to nesting beaches in Massachusetts from mid-March
through late April or early May. Males establish and defend territories and court
females. Nesting may occur from mid-April through late July. Clutch size is usually
4 eggs; average incubation period is 27-28 days. Piping plovers fledge only a single
brood per season, although renesting will occur in response to nest los& Chicks are
precocial and able to move about within hours after hatching. Chicks remain together
with one or both parents until they fledge at 25-35 days of age. Both adults and
chicks feed on a variety of invertebrates found in intertidal sand and mud flats,
wrack, and on upper beaches and dunes. Preferred feeding habitats of both adults and
chicks are intertidal areas of wrack (seaweed, vegetation, shells and other organic
debris deposited on the beach by tidal action). Unfledged chicks may be present from
late May until mid-August.

L-ewl Tem

Least terns are whitish-colored black-capped birds sporting a white forehead and a
black-tipped yellow bill. These small (10") seabirds nest along the Atlantic Seaboard from
southern Maine to Florida. In Massachusetts, the least tern is fisted as a "Species of Special
Concern" by the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife under provisions of the
Massachusetts Endangered Species Act. An estimated 2,642 @pairs nested at 51 sites in
Massachusetts in 1992.
Least terns occupy nesting grounds similar in most respects to those of the piping
plover and the two species commonly nest in close proximity to each other. Least terns arrive
in Massachusetts in early May, engage in elaborate courtship rituals, mate and quickly establish
colonies. Actual nesting occurs from about the third week of May through mid-July. Nesting
groups range in size from just a few pairs to 500 or more pairs. Nesting groups mount mutual
defense tactics, notably mobbing and defecating upon intruders with great accuracy. Least terns
nest in their own colonies and do not join in mixed colonies with other species of terns.
Nests are formed as shallow "scrapes" in the sand, usually in sandy areas devoid of
vegetation, but sometimes in areas of sparse beach grass, beach pea and other dune vegetation.
Least terns, like the piping plovers, have nested along the eastern barrier beaches for thousands

of years, capitalizing opportunistically on natural processes of beach erosion and accretion.
Clutches consist of 1-3 eggs. The average incubation period is 21-23 days. Incubating
adults, clutches of eggs and the young are extremely cryptic. These terns are single brooded,
but will renest multiple times in response to nest loss. Chicks are precocial and may run
considerable distances along the beaches in the prefledging period. Fledging occurs at about
20-22 days. Adults deliver fish caught in the surrounding waters to the chicks. Soon.after
fledging, least terns stage and depart southward; most are gone before the end of August.

Common, Roseate and Arctic Tems

These 3 similar-appearing species of whitish-colored black-capped seabirds commingle
in large nesting colonies and are hence treated as a group. The common tern is indeed the
most "common" of the group. In 1992, some 8,600 pairs were estimated at 35 sites in
Massachusetts; only 9 of these sites exceeded 100 pairs. Unlike the common tern, the Arctic
tern is regarded as a "peripheral" species in Massachusetts. At the southern limits of its natural
range in Massachusetts, the Arctic tern has been declining since the 1950s and reached an all-
time low of only 8 pairs in 1992. Both of these species are fisted by the Massachusetts Division
of Fisheries and Wildlife as a "Species of Special Concern!' under provisions of the
Massachusetts Endangered Species Act.
The Northeastern population of the roseate tern is listed as "Endangered" by both the
U.S. Department of the Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service under the U.S. Endangered Species
Act of 1973 and the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's Natural Heritage and
Endangered Species Program under provisions of the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act.
In 1992, nearly 85 percent of the entire Northeastern population was concentrated in two
colonies--Bird Island, Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts and Great Gull Island, off the eastern end
of Long Island, New York. Out of an estimated 1,412 pairs in Massachusetts in 1992, 1,375
pairs (97 percent) were at Bird Island. Away from Bird Island, small numbers of roseates may
be found and should be expected with large nesting groups of common terns.
All three of these "larger" tern species differ dramatically from the least tern in habitat
preference. Unlike the least tern, they prefer to establish colonies on offshore islands including
barrier islands and the remote tips of barrier beaches. Unfortunately for these terns, most of
the optimal offshore nesting sites have been gradually usurped by gulls since the 1950's. As a
result, terns have been forced to settle at a limited number of secondary inshore sites that leave
them more exposed to disturbance by a variety of factors including human activity and a host
of land-based predators.
The life histories of these 3 species of terns is generally similar though differing in
particulars. Exemplifying the three, common terns select dune areas with moderate to dense
stands of beach grass and other dune vegetation. Birds arrive from the south in early May.
Colony sites are generally selected before the end of May. Ritualized courtship and pair
formation occurs on the beach and sandflats about the colony site. Nesting groups range from
just a few to 4,000 or more pairs. Nests are "scrapes" in the sand, usually lined with beach grass
and seaweed. Clutches of 2-3 eggs are produced. Both parents share incubation duties for a
term of about 23 days. The young are precocial and seek the shade of vegetation and are
brooded by the adults. Diet of these terns is almost exclusively fish. Adults rise from the colony
to aggressively mob and defecate on intruders.
As the young approach fledging at about 28 days, the bare sandy berm areas proximate
to the colony assume importance to the birds as rearing or nursery areas for the young. At
some sites, thousands of young terns may be present in these areas from late July through mid-
August. After mid-August, most terns have fledged and all three species gather in "staging
areas" prior to departure for winter quarters by the end of August.

Massachusetts Historical Commission

As early as possible in the planning stages of a project licensed or permitted
by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, in whole or in part,
the Department should notify the Massachusetts Historical Commission in order for
the Commission to determine whether the project will have an effect on a historic or
archaeological property which is listed in the State Register of Historic Places. Ile
Department does not have' to notify the Commission of a project if it clearly does not
have an area of potential impact due to the nature of the project. However, if a
project is likely to impact a geographical area and cause a change in the historical,
architectural, archaeological, or cultural qualities of a property, the Department
should notify the Massachusetts Historical Commission. Notification to the
Commission is through the project applicant's submission of a Project Notification
Form, or, in the case of a project which also requires a Massachusetts Environmental
Policy Act review, an Environmental Notification Form. [A Massachusetts Historical
Commission Project Notification Form is found in Appendix A of 950 Code of Mass.
Regulations 71.00.]
Within thirty days of receipt of a Project Notification Form, the Historical
Commission will determine whether the project will have any adverse effect on a State
Register property and will provide written comment. If the Commission determines
that a project will have an adverse effect, the Commission and Department of
Environmental Protection should immediately consult to discuss ways to eliminate,
minimize or mitigate the adverse effect. The purpose of the consultation process is
to avoid damage to historic or archaeological properties through the adoption of
prudent and feasible means. Under Chapter 9 �27C of the Mass. General Laws, the
discovery of any archaeological resources on lands owned or controlled by the
Commonwealth or any of its subdivisions, should be reported to the State
Archaeologist at the Massachusetts Historical Commission.
For further information, contact the Massachusetts Historical Commission, 80
Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116, (617) 727-8470.

CHAPTER 4

Public Use/Recreational Activities

Barrier beaches have long been used by the public for a variety of purposes,
including many recreational activities. While many uses have little impact on the
resources of the barrier beach, other activities have been shown to have significant
impacts.

This Chapter describes, for the barrier beach resource areas addressed in
Chapter 2:
� Activity Descriptions;
� Resource Impacts; and
9 Recommended Management Measures.

The activities covered in this Chapter include:
e Pedestrian Uses, including Hunting, Fin and Shellfishing, Kite-flying,
Pets, and Hiking;
e Camping, including Fires;
9 Watercraft, including Boats and Jet-Skis;
9 Plant Harvesting;
* Non-Motorized Transport, including Horseback Riding and Bicycles;
e Fireworks; and
* Off-Road Vehicle Use.

Pedestrian Uses, including Hunting,, Fin and Shelifishing,
19W
Mng, Pets and Hiking

Pedestrians engage in a variety of activities on barrier beaches, including:
wildlife observation (birdwatching), beach strolling, fishing access, hunting, and
jogging. Kite flying at the beach is a popular sport that is viewed as a passive activity.
Shellfishing in the intertidal and subtidal areas abutting the barrier is common for
both recreational and commercial purposes. Hunting and fishing can occur
throughout the barrier beach ecosystem.

Resource Impacts

Pedestrian access is important to encourage and maintain at barrier beaches.
However, if left unmanaged, large, concentrated and frequent volumes of pedestrians
can have significant impacts on barrier beach resources, including:
. * dune vegetation (destruction of vegetation can lead to blow-outs and
general lowering of dune profiles and impact wildlife habitat);
* wetlands (marshes, swamps, semi-flooded areas) which contain peaty soils
(destruction of vegetation can produce depressed trails, with subsequent widening as
pedestrians seek drier ground);
a upper wrack,fine (destruction of sand-binding plants which would otherwise
start growing there);
* wildlife (the human disturbance factor and low tolerance of some species).

Wildlife can be adversely impacted by visitor-generated garbage left at the
beach, since it may be ingested or may attract predators to nesting areas.
Discarded kite string and monofilament line can cause wildlife entanglement
problems.
Nesting and feeding shorebirds may perceive kites as potential predators,
thereby temporarily abandoning nests, leaving young vulnerable to temperature
changes and predation. Shorebirds, terns and waterfowl may suffer serious injury or
death from entanglement in kite strings, either during flight or from lengths of string
discarded on the beach.
Unleashed or uncontrolled pets can harass, capture or kill wildlife, particularly
nesting birds, eggs, and hatchlings. Additionally, unleashed or uncontrolled pets may
cause disturbance to other beach users during seasonal high use periods. Animal
waste can have an adverse impact on coastal beaches, water quality, and tidal flats.
Vegetation, dune form and function can also be adversely affected.

Recommended Management Measures

0 The Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's "Guidelines for Managing
Recreational Use of Beaches to Protect Piping Plovers, Terns and Their
Habitats in Massachusetts," found in Appendix H, and the Mass. Department
of Environmental Protection's "Recommended Conditions for Barrier
Beaches," found in Appendix 1, should be consulted.

General Pedestrian Use/Hiking
0 Pedestrian impacts should be managed in order to minimize adverse impacts
to barrier beach natural resources associated with this activity.

In most instances, large, concentrated and frequent volumes of pedestrian
activity should be prohibited from coastal dunes and wetlands. However,
where large, frequent and concentrated volumes of pedestrians will be
channeled through dunes, the following precautions should be taken:
in establishing cross-over paths through dunes, there should be the
minimum number of paths necessary to provide safe access and egress from
the back of the barrier beach to the beach front.;
pedestrian traffic should be managed through the use of ramps and elevated
boardwalks, fences, thick vegetation, and signs;
- trails should be constructed such that they cause no harm or disturbance to
state-listed rare species;
- non-ramped pedestrian trails through dunes to the beach front should be
periodically inspected in order to determine whether or not the location of
the trail or the volume of traffic are contributing to excessive wear and
erosion. If so, the trail may have to be relocated or a ramp or boardwalk built
and the old trail restored-,
- trails should not be constructed so that they create blowouts;
- pedestrian trails should not cross over unstable dunes; and
- pedestrian routes should not be constructed so that they create wind and
wave tunnels; they should follow an "S" pattern. [See Chapter 5 for
information on construction of pedestrian pathways and boardwalks.]

On beaches where there is pedestrian traffic which could harm or disturb
incubating plovers or terns, their eggs, or chicks, refuge areas with at least a
50 yard-radius around nests should be delineated with warning signs and
symbolic fencing above the high tide line [see figure on page 72]. Only
persons engaged in rare species monitoring, management, or research
activities should enter the refuge areas, although individuals may pass by
outside. Refuge areas should remain fenced as long as viable eggs or
unfledged chicks are present.

Refuge areas around nests should be expanded if a 50-yard radius is deemed
inadequate to protect incubating adults or unfledged chicks from harm or
disturbance. This may include situations where plovers or terns are especially
intolerant of human presence, or where a 50-yard radius refuge provides

Barrier Beach Pedestrian Closure to Protect
Piping Plover Chicks Between Hatching and Fledgling Periods
(approximately 35 days)

50 Yards

RP Alk
0 Mean HITh Water

Ocean

Symbolic Fencing

0 Piping Plover Nest

Figure 12. Barrier beach pedestrian closure to protect piping plover chicks
between hatching and fledging periods (approximately 35 days).
74 Z5OYards

insufficient escape cover or alternative foraging opportunities for plover
chicks. If nests are discovered outside fenced areas, fencing should be
extended to create a sufficient buffer to prevent harm or disturbance to
incubating adults, eggs, or unfledged chicks. On some beaches where plovers
and terns have traditionally nested or where suitable habitat occurs, it may be
necessary to symbolically fence portions of habitat during March or April,
prior to plover nesting, or during May, prior to tern nesting, if, in the opinion
of the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, or its agent, failure
to do so could discourage plovers or terns from nesting as a result of
disturbance from human use.

Rearing or nursery areas used by unfledged or recently-fledged tern chicks,
as identified by the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, or its
agent, should be delineated by beach managers with posts, warning signs, or
symbolic fencing not later than June 21. Only persons engaged in rare species
monitoring, management, or research should enter posted or fenced tern
nursery areas while unfledged tern chicks or tern chicks being fed by adult
terns are present, although individuals may pass by outside these areas. Such
nursery areas may be re-opened when all tern chicks have fledged and are not
being fed by adult terns.

� Viewing platforms should be constructed where people congregate at stairways
and scenic overviews.

� Concessions that sell refreshments should be encouraged to use biodegradable
materials and seek alternatives to enhance waste reduction.

� Users should be encouraged to follow a carry in-carry out policy on garbage,
trash, and refuse.

Hunting
0 Hunting conducted in accordance with existing Mass. Division of Fisheries and
Wildlife regulations is a legitimate and acceptable recreational activity on
barrier beaches.

Pets
Pets should be leashed or under control of their owners at all times from
April 1 to August 31 on beaches where piping plovers or terns are present or
have traditionally nested. Pets should be prohibited on these beaches from
April 1 through August 31 if, based on observations and experience, pet
owners fail to keep pets leashed and under control and staff resources
prohibit enforcement of leash laws. Hunting dogs, as is traditional, should be
kept under the control of hunters at all times. This guideline is especially
important in remote areas which are difficult to manage and yet attractive to
wildlife.

Kite-Flying
From April 1 to August 31, kite flying should be prohibited within 200 yards
of both nesting territorial adults and unfledged juvenile piping plovers and
terns.

Finfishing
Sport finfishing on barrier beaches is an activity that, for public safety reasons,
should be separated from recreational swimming areas during active beach use
hours.

Shellfishing
Shellfishing is regulated at the municipal level by Mass. General Laws, Chapter
130 and by Fishing & Shellfishing Regulations at 322 Code of Mass.
Regulations 1.00 - 12.00. Aquaculture is also regulated under the Mass.
Wetlands Protection Act and Regulations at 310 Code of Mass. Regulations
10.04 (a)(b).

All Activities
Informative and educational signs are encouraged.

Camping, including Fires

Uses include people staying overnight in tents, self-contained camping vehicles
or in the open. This activity may also include accessory uses such as camp fires and
chase vehicles.

Resource Impacts

Tenting and associated heavy pedestrian use may impact vegetation or
landform. Generally, when limited and well managed, there are few impacts on
coastal beaches or heavily vegetated areas. Other activities, such as accessory fires
and waste disposal, including human waste, may cause significant impacts if not
properly managed. Camping and fires can: destroy vegetated cover as well as alter
dune form and function; can impact rare species, rare species habitat, and migratory
shorebirds through disturbance of nesting, resting, and feeding activities; and can
impact erosion control structures and signage through the use of these structures as
combustion material. Fires can create a public safety threat and debris problem
through improper disposal. The procedure of extinguishing a fire through burial is
dangerous as coals may continue to burn underground for an extended period of time,
producing no visible smoke, but posing a safety threat to barefoot beachgoers.

Recommended Management Measures

0 Camping areas should be delineated by beach managers and cited in their
plans. The areas should be located at least 100 yards from identified nesting
sites and off-road vehicle corridors.

0 Camping should be prohibited in rare species habitat and significant migratory
shorebird areas, and limited in coastal dunes.

0 Designation of camping areas should include assessment of flammability of
adjacent flora, access availability by vehicle or foot, waste disposal facilities,
wildlife considerations, and scenic views.

0 Educational programs for campers should take place.

0 A "carry in-carry out" policy for trash should be implemented.

0 A policy requiring fires in containers will alleviate the problem of buried fires
as the camp fire user can carry the fire to the water to extinguish it or fill the
container with water on location.

0 Informative and educational signs are encouraged.

9 See section on "Off-road Vehicle Use" (page 85)

Watercraft. including Jet Skis

In some instances, vessel access to barrier beaches has been encouraged by
beach managers where vehicular access has been restricted. In order to properly
manage vessel access to barrier beaches and islands, beach managers are encouraged
to work closely with municipal harbormasters, the Massachusetts Harborm *asters
Association, the boating public, yacht clubs, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the
U.S. Power Squadron.
Recreational watercraft, including boats, jet skis, sailboards and other vessels
are popular at many beaches. Some of these activities have occurred at beaches since
colonial times and, in certain instances, are provided for in the Colonial Ordinances
of 1641 and 1647. However, watercraft use adjacent to public bathing beaches is also
regulated by other state and federal laws, such as 323 Code of Mass. Regulations
2.00-2.14 (others are cited at Appendix E). Small craft, typically under twenty-five
feet in length, are most commonly observed launching and landing around beach and
marsh areas. Such vessels anchor just offshore and move passengers to the beach in
small dinghies. In addition, individual watercraft such as jet skis and sailboards have
become more popular.
Impacts from watercraft can take two forms: on-water and/or onshore.
Although on-water activities may impact barrier beaches directly or indirectly, the
impacts of onshore activities of humans accessing beaches via watercraft have a more
direct affect on a beach.

Resource lmpacft

Most vessel owners in Massachusetts operate their boats in a conscientious
and environmentally sensitive manner. In some instances, however, adverse impacts
to the barrier environment can occur when vessel and beach regulations are not in
place or are violated, more often at remote barrier beach locations not easily managed
by beach managers.
Impacts are not likely to occur from minimal Or occasional use of watercraft.
It is the chronic impacts that should be evaluated due to popular use in specific areas.
Barrier beach resources impacted by watercraft include: beaches, salt marsh,
land containing shellfish, and land under the ocean. Coastal dunes may be impacted
by pedestrians associated with vessel use. Vessel access at barrier beaches may conflict
with recreational swimming. It may also conflict with rare species and wildlife habitat
protection, especially at remote ends of barrier spits. Changes in bottom topography,
alteration of substrate vegetation, and increased sedimentation due to prop wash and
hull impacts may also occur. Increased access by small craft on barrier spits can
create a large human disturbance factor to areas otherwise inaccessible to most people
but commonly used as nesting, feeding, resting and migration habitat for rare species
and other wildlife.

On-water
Barrier beaches in Massachusetts that are popular for watercraft activities
share many common traits. Often the preferred areas for landing and recreating are
on the sheltered backside of beaches. These areas are typically associated with a salt
marsh system or a bay, important resource areas known for their fragility. Many times
the preferred watercraft use areas are also remote, enhancing their wildlife value.
Resource impacts that may occur from on-water watercraft activities include changes
in underwater topography from increased water column mbdng and sedimentation;
disturbance and contamination of economically-important shellfish beds'and waters;
increased beach and marsh bank erosion from watercraft wake; water contamination
from gas, oil and waste tank discharges; and disturbances to nesting, feeding, resting
and migration habitat for rare species and other wildlife from watercraft noise.

Onshore
Onshore activities of humans accessing beaches from watercraft take on
similar characteristics to other forms of human use on beaches. Individuals from
watercraft do not necessarily act differently than other persons accessing a beach by
other means. However, onshore activities related to watercraft regularly occur in
remote areas where management is difficult. Therefore, activities prohibited in well-
patrolled areas of beaches may occur more often in remote areas accessed by
watercraft due to lack of enforcement. Specific potential onshore impacts from
humans accessing beaches via watercraft include damage to dunes and fragile beach
vegetation, disturbance to wildlife (primarily resting, nesting and feeding shorebirds
and terns) from humans and pets, and contamination from trash and human waste.

Recommended Management Measures

General
0 Watercraft use should be balanced with other uses, potentially warranting
special area use designations both on-water and shoreside.

0 Where symbolic fencing is inadequate in protecting rare species, such as terns
and plovers, or wildlife habitat, such as significant migratory shorebird staging
areas, and where there is no active rare species management plan in place,
beach managers should consider negotiated alternative management measures,
including, but not limited tp, temporary restrictions on the launching and
beaching of small craft on those portions of the barrier beach that provide
nesting, feeding, resting, or migration habitat for rare species and other
wildlife. Discussions should include representatives from the beach owner and
manager, the municipal conservation commission, The Massachusetts Division
of Fisheries and Wildlife, and the user groups.

0 In order to protect dunes, beaches, and salt marsh resources, the number of
watercraft and associated visitors should be assessed and managed where and
when necessary.

Signs should be erected at these areas to inform users of the management
issues.

On-water
Management of on-water activities of watercraft involves regulatory statutes
that exceed the scope of this document. However, there are certain measures
a beach manager can employ, such as working with appropriate authorities to
designate areas for swimming or boat landing only, in an effort to ensure
public safety. Speed limits can be posted around high-use watercraft areas for
public safety. Buoys and signs should delineate such special use areas.
Unfortunately, certain other on-water impacts may be impossible for a beach
manager to enforce. In such cases, cooperation with local harbormasters,
Massachusetts Environmental Police Officers and the U.S. Coast Guard may
assist in solving a problem. [See Mass. General Laws Chapter 90B, ��1-5.]

Potential conflicts can exist between exercise of the public trust rights to "fish,
fowl and navigate," recreational swimming, and the protection of rare species
and wildlife habitat. Beach managers are therefore urged to designate,
wherever safe and practicable, launching and landing areas for watercraft.

Onshore
Impacts from onshore activities associated with watercraft can be effectively
managed using a variety of techniques that allow for continued use of the
resource while balancing the needs for conservation with recreation.
However, to achieve this balance, beach managers must commit resources to
specific areas where pedestrians from watercraft regularly come onshore.
Some of the recommended management measures include: fencing and
signage to protect fragile dune areas; fencing and signage to protect wildlife
areas; general signage to inform users about the area and regulations
governing its use; regular staffing to directly educate users about the fragile
barrier beach environment and encouraging respect for the resources;
enforcing regulations; and encouraging conscientious on-water operation of
watercraft. These techniques have proven effective and should be adopted
for all high-use watercraft areas.

Pedestrian Impacts
Pedestrian impacts associated with vessel landings and launching can have an
impact on barrier beach natural resources, especially in remote areas of
barrier beaches not easily managed. Refer to the "Pedestrian Use" section in
this Chapter regarding the impacts and recommended management measures.

Plant Harvesting

Plant Harvesting includes removal of living and dead plant material from the
barrier marshes and beaches. Sea lavender is commonly removed from high salt
marsh areas, and American Beach Grass seed stocks are commonly removed from
dune areas. Large scale removal of coastal vegetation can have an adverse impact on
dunes and beach stabilization, seed sources and food sources for animals.

Resource Impacts

Removal of sea lavender has effected the Massachusetts population of sea
lavender by depleting the seed source within the salt marsh community.
Removal of American Beach Grass seed stocks can limit the spread of the
grass and lead to dune destablilization and erosion.

Recommended Management Measures

� Unauthorized harvesting of barrier beach plants, such as sea lavender,
American Beach Grass and Spartina@ should be prohibited.

� Informative and educational signs are encouraged.

Non-motorized Transport, including Horseback Riding and
ftycles

Non-motorized transport uses include: recreational horseback riding,
horseback patrol, and mountain biking.

Resource Impacts

Within the barrier beach system, there are areas where this type of activity is
more appropriate or less damaging than others. However, where this activity destroys
vegetation, it also is likely to adversely impact dune shape and function. The
introduction of feces from horses to land or water from direct contact or runoff can
contribute to human health problems and water quality degradation.

Recommended Management Measures

� Bicycles and horses should be encouraged to remain on established paths. The
use of coastal dunes for official horse patrol or recreational purposes is
discouraged. Dunes should only be traversed when accessing or exiting a
coastal beach, and then, access should be over a designated trail. Horses
should also be directed away from tidal flats as feces can have an adverse
impact on shellfish.

� On beaches where horses are used and could harm or disturb incubating
plovers or terns, or their eggs, or chicks, refuge areas of at least a 50-yard
radius around nests and above the high tide line should be delineated with
warning signs and symbolic fencing.

� Refuge areas around nests should be expanded if a 50-yard radius is deemed
inadequate to protect incubating adults or unfledged chicks from harm or
disturbance. This may include situations where plovers or terns are especially
intolerant of human presence, or where a 50-yard radius refuge provides
insufficient escape cover or alternative foraging opportunities for plover
chicks. If nests are discovered outside fenced areas, fencing should be
extended to create a sufficient buffer to prevent harm or disturbance to
incubating adults, eggs, or unfledged chicks. On some beaches where plovers
and terns have traditionally nested or where suitable habitat occurs, it may be
necessary to symbolically fence portions of habitat during March or April,
prior to plover nesting, or during May, prior to tern nesting, if, in the opinion
of the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, or its agent, failure
to do so could discourage plovers or terns from nesting as a result of
disturbance from human use.

0 Rearing or nursery areas used by unfledged or recently-fledged tern chicks,
as identified by the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, or its
agent, should be delineated with posts, warning signs, or symbolic fencing not
later than June 2L Only persons engaged in rare species monitoring,
management, or research should enter posted or fenced tern nursery areas
while unfledged tern chicks or tern chicks being fed by adult terns are present,
although individuals may pass by outside these areas. Such nursery areas may
be re-opened when all tern chicks have fledged and are not being fed by adult
terns.

0 Beach managers should establish appropriate areas for the use of all non-
motorized transport to avoid rare species habitat and other sensitive coastal
resources according to season.

0 Non-motorized transport often allows the public easy access to distant areas.
Beach managers should develop measures to manage and educate this user
group as enforcement of rules and regulations is often difficult in remote
areas.

0 Informative and educational signs are encouraged.

Fireworks

This activity includes the setting-off of large scale, municipally sanctioned
Fourth of July-type fireworks attracting thousands of people.

Resource Impacts

The landing of fireworks and associated debris can result in quick-moving fires,
especially during dry summer months. The result is destruction of vegetation that
holds dunes in place. Fireworks may cause disturbance to nesting, feeding, and
resting rare species and cause disturbances to wildlife habitat.

Recommended Management Measures

The launching and large-scale viewing of fireworks should be prohibited on
coastal dunes, in salt marshes, and near wildlife habitat, especially that of
nesting rare species (April 1 to August 31).

� Launching and viewing areas for municipally sanctioned Fourth of July-type
fireworks events should be established in conjunction with the beach manager
and municipal fire warden so as to avoid adverse impacts to rare species,
wildlife habitat and barrier beach and wetland natural resources. Particular
attention, should be paid to the management of large and concentrated
volumes of pedestrian traffic associated with this activity in order to avoid
adverse impacts to sensitive and critical natural resources. [See "Pedestrian
Use" section earlier in this Chapter.]

� Codes regulating the launching or lighting of fireworks should be strictly
enforced on barrier beaches.

Off-Road Vehicle Use

The off-road vehicle user group includes: beach-goers; fisherman; recreational
overnight users with self contained campers which may have trailered "chase" vehicles
and boats; private property owners; and special users such as those engaged in
research and monitoring, minimal maintenance, law enforcement, emergencies and
public safety.

Resoufce Impacts

Most off-road vehicle owners in Massachusetts operate their vehicles in a
conscientious and environmentally sensitive manner. In some instances, however,
adverse impacts to the barrier environment may occur when vehicle and beach
regulations are not in place or are violated, more often at remote barrier beach
locations not easily managed by beach managers.
Coastal beaches may be impacted through the churning of tires; tidal flats may
be impacted through compaction of the substrate; vegetation may be destroyed; and
dunes may be destabilized.
According to "The Impact of Off-Road Vehicles on Coastal Ecosystems in
Cape Cod National Seashore: An Overview" (Leatherman and Godfrey, 1978), it is
said that: "The sheering and compressional effects of off-road vehicle passage extend
to a depth of approximately 20 centimeters; the shear stresses of the turning wheels
disaggregate the drift and break plant rhizomes. The integrity of drift lines is
destroyed by off-road vehicle traffic, as the material is scattered about the beach.
Vehicle impact also decreases the rate of decay of organic material. Bacterial counts
associated with the drift were normally very high but were markedly reduced when
vehicles pulverized the organic deposits."
"Vehicle traffic also crushes and kills seedlings of annuals and the young plants
of perennials, such as Ammophila@ which are associated with the drift. It was found
that the effect of 100 passes of an off-road vehicle does not differ significantly from
that of 10 passes; only a few passes are required to break up the deposit and kill all
the vegetation. Thus, the major effect of vehicles on the high beach was on drift lines
and developing dunes, with traffic severely limiting new dune formation."
Vehicle travel through the coastal dune can destroy the vegetated mat and can
contribute to erosion of dune form and function. Travel over salt marshes can
destroy the vegetated mat and cause erosion. Shellfish resources may be impacted
due to compaction of soil and crushing existing organisms, depending on the depth
of shellfish and other organisms, substrate type, weight and use of vehicle.
Off-road vehicle use may degrade piping plover habitat by crushing wrack
(seaweed, shells and other organic material deposited on the beach by tidal action)
into the sand and making it unavailable to the plovers as cover or foraging substrate.
Wrack is a preferred feeding habitat for piping plovers, especially chicks.
Vehicles can degrade piping plover habitat by creating ruts that may trap or
impede movements of chicks, and by causing disturbance that may prevent plovers

from using habitat that is otherwise suitable (Goldin and others, 1990; Strauss, 1990;
Melvin and others, 1993). For a complete list of citations, see Appendix H, the
Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's "Guidelines for Managing
Recreational Use of Beaches to Protect Piping Plovers, Terns and Their Habitats in
Massachusetts."
Ile use of off-road vehicles may also impact other migratory shorebirds
feeding and resting on beaches, tidal flats, coastal dunes and salt marshes. Vehicles
and other associated activities may disturb and interrupt feeding and resting activity
by driving through or adjacent to the associated habitats. Impacts are potentially
greatest during the southward part of shorebird migration (July Ist - September 15th)
when public use of beaches is highest.
The use of off-road vehicles may affect the survival and productivity of state
and/or federally listed endangered species, such as piping plovers and terns. Vehicles
can crush concealed eggs and chicks, even adult birds. Typical behaviors of piping
plover chicks make them much more vulnerable than least tern chicks to off-road
vehicles. Chicks frequently move back and forth between the foredune and preferred
feeding habitats in the wrack line and intertidal zone. These movements place piping
plover chicks in the paths of vehicles moving along the berm or through the intertidal
zone. Because piping plover chicks typically leave the nest within a day of hatching
and typically run out onto the open beach, the wire fencing placed around nests or
nesting areas to deter predators is ineffective in protecting chicks from vehicles.
Plover chicks and least tern chicks may stand in or walk and run along tire ruts, and
young chicks sometimes have difficulty crossing deep ruts or climbing out of them.
Chicks sometimes stand motionless or crouch, rather than flee, as vehicles pass by.
Piping plovers may be vulnerable to disturbance during periods of courtship
and territory establishment in March and April. Similarly, least terns may be
vulnerable in May and June. Common, roseate and Arctic terns are highly disturbed
by any vehicle or pedestrian intrusion into their colonies. Prolonged or repeated
disturbances at colonies can lead to egg and chick loss from exposure and predation
or site abandonment.

1) OFF-ROAD VEHICLE DRIVING CORRIDORS

Recommended Management Measures

� The Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's "Guidelines for Managing
Recreational Use of Beaches to Protect Piping Plovers, Terns and Their
Habitats in Massachusetts," found in Appendix H, and the Mass. Department
of Environmental Protection's "Recommended Conditions for Barrier
Beaches," found in Appendix 1, should be consulted.

Beach Corridors
� Where.off-road vehicle use takes place or is proposed to take place on a
barrier beach, off-road vehicle beach driving corridors should be designated
by beach managers. Corridors should be located such that they avoid wildlife
habitat, particularly that of rare species; wrack lines; salt marsh; vegetated
areas on coastal beaches; tidal flats; overwash areas; and coastal dunes. A
coastal beach off-road vehicle driving corridor should be located at a minimum
of 10 feet seaward of the spring high tide line to the most seaward berm crest
(see figure on page 88). Back dune or back barrier vehicle routes should be
eliminated wherever and whenever possible and restored.

� When designating beach driving corridors, beach managers should also
consider separating vehicle use areas from other beach recreational activities,
such as bathing, hiking and walking.

� Between July 1 and September 15, areas that are identified as significant
feeding, resting and staging areas for migratory shorebirds should be closed
to off-road vehicles by posting and fencing the areas or by altering off-road
vehicle travel corridors. Shorebirds are most suscetible to disturbances at high
tide when they roost on upper portions of the beach. This is a
recommendation only, designed to protect from disturbance migratory
shorebirds that are feeding and roosting while on their way to South America.

� In instances where off-road vehicle access has been closed in order to comply
with environmental laws, beach managers are encouraged to work with local
officials, the public, and, where appropriate, state and federal officials to
resolve any conflicts through planning and discussions. Reasonable alternative
access routes should always be investigated.

When the use of a vehicle corridor creates an unstable dune area such as a
blowout, or results in a reduction in foredune height, volume or function, then
the trail should be relocated with the old crossover closed and the area
restored. Activities that produced such damage should be reviewed for
compliance with environmental law. [Such contingency plans should be part
of the overall beach management scheme.]

Beach Terminology Diagram

tie.
r V@Z- -
A4
Dune
Ridge

Drift Line
Deposits
Berm Crest

4E
10' ORV Corridor :7-

4---Foredune *----L- Backshore Foreshore ---w

Swft (Eo@-) HO Tk1w Normal @O Tkja Lo., Tide TIdW FLift
Sprft MWMO) Wrack Line Oaly Wrack Urw

Figure 13. Beach terminology diagram (adapted from: U.S. Department of the
Interior/National Park Service/Cape Cod National Seashore).

� Travel through off-road vehicle corridors should be on well established vehicle
trails, delineated with posts, signs, and/or fencing.

0 Adequate protection measures should be applied to beach trails during high
or exceptionally high tides so that drivers will not damage the seaward edge
of dunes. Some trails may be closed during certain time periods depending
on the width of the beach and height of the tide.

� Travel may be further restricted due to other changing beach conditions and
rare species nesting activity.

� Severely rutted trails should be repaired in order to keep off-road vehicles
from using unauthorized areas and to confine vehicles to designated routes.

� All designated off-road vehicle corridor routes should be indicated on maps
and diagrams provided with off-road vehicle permits.

Parking should be permitted only within oversand vehicle corridors. However,
in order to avoid traffic obstruction, parking should not be permitted on
previously made trails within the corridor.

Parking in blowout areas should be prohibited and controlled by posting and
cable fencing. The use of snow fence in such areas is not encouraged as it
may adversely impact nesting shorebirds.

In some instances, beach managers may be able to provide for overnight
camping by self-contained vehicles along the coastal beach corridor. A self-
contained vehicle is a motor home or truck with an attached camper shell,
with permanently mounted holding tanks with a 3 day capacity for containing
black and gray water.

Overnight camping and sleeping should be permitted only in self-contained
recreational vehicles along the off-road vehicle corridor. For safety reasons,
tents should not be permitted within the corridor. Vehicles and campers
should possess a valid permit visibly displayed.

Dune Crossovers
Where off-road vehicle corridor crossover routes are located on coastal dunes,
they should be the minimum number of routes necessary in order to provide
safe access and egress over the dune to the vehicle corridor located on the
beach front.

Ramps should be constructed as the prime vehicle corridor route through
coastal dunes. Vehicle ramps can be constructed by placing 2A inch boards
on edge, with short spacers between each 2A, and held together by cables
which pass through the studs and spacers. The spaces between the studs allow
sand to filter through when the ramp is lifted and reset. If the site becomes

-w

Figure 14: Fencing plan to protect piping plover nests and unfledged chicks
from pedestrian, non-motorized transport, and off-road vehicles
(courtesy of Mass. Department of Environmental Management).

stablej beach grass plants will grow in the spaces between the studs (Carlson
and Godfrey, 1984). Also see the Guidelines@ Chapter 5.

Non-ramped crossover trails from the backside of the beach through dunes to
the beach front corridor should be periodically inspected in order to
determine whether or not the location of the trail or volume of traffic is
contributing to excessive dune erosion. If so, the trail may have to be
relocated or a ramp built and the old trail restored.

Non-ramped trails should be constructed such that:
a. Dune routes do not include sharp turns and steep grades;
b. Trails do not cross unstable dunes;
c. Trails avoid sensitive areas such as nesting bird areas, blowouts, and
sites of rare species of plants and animals;
d. Wind and wave tunnels are not created. Routes through dunes
should be curved in an "S" fashion.

Dune crossover traffic should be confined to designated routes by use of cable
fences.

� See Appendix D, "Off-road Vehicles, Recommended Equipment and
Suggested Trail and Driving Guidelines."

Information/Education
0 Use of vehicles allows access to remote areas and as a result the impact may
involve human waste. The use of public or privately maintained toilet facilities
may be necessary.

� Driving hours should be established, advertised, and well know by all beach
users.

Speed limits should be 15 miles per hour, unless otherwise posted.

Speed limits in self-contained vehicle areas should be 5 miles per hour.

Speed limits near posted bird nesting colonies, nursery areas or roosting areas
should be 5 miles per hour for all vehicles.

Informative and educational signs should be used to:
a. Mark designated off-road vehicle trails and access points across
foredunes; and
b. Mark restricted areas, when appropriate, such as rare bird species
nesting areas.

Along with the issuance of an off-road vehicle permit, educational information

specific to the beach should be provided to drivers. Some beach managers
also require drivers to view a brief audio-visual presentation. [See Chapter
6 -- "Public Education and Outreach."]

2) BARRIER BEACH VEHICLE QUOTA

Recommended Management Measures

As a general rule, it is recommended that a certain number of square feet of
frontal coastal beach be allowed for each off-road vehicle entering the beach.
This will determine the amount of vehicles allowed on a barrier beach at any
one time.

In determining the appropriate number of vehicles for a specific area, the
beach manager should first estimate the square footage of available coastal beach, ten
feet from the Spring High Tide to Mean High Tide. Bathing areas, salt marshes,
coastal dunes, tidal flats, rare species habitat, wrack, and staging areas for migratory
shorebirds should not be included in the land areas used to calculate the number of
square feet allowable.

Available Area/Number of Vehicles = Area per Vehicle (in square feet)

This recommendation must be interpreted by beach managers on a case-!?Y-case basis
depending largely upon the characteristics of the barrier beach under consideration
for off-road vehicle operations.

3) RARE SPECIES MANAGEMENT

Recommended Management Measures

The following Jurisdictional matters should be evaluated by beach managers
and regulators:
1) Wildlife habitat and rare species habitat is protected under the
Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and enforced by the municipal conservation
commission and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection;
2) Rare species are protected under the federal Endangered Species Act and
the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act, which are enforced by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service and the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, respectively;
and
3) Wildlife habitat, including that for rare species can and in some instances
,may be protected under municipal wetlands protection by-laws/ordinances and
enforced by the municipal conservation commission.

Refer to Appendix H, Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's
"Guidelines for Managing Use of Beaches to Protect Piping Plovers, Terns
and Their Habitats in Massachusetts."

Under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act regulations, if a proposed
project is found to alter a resource area which is part of the actual habitat of a state-
listed rare wildlife species, such project shall not be permitted to have any short or
long term adverse effects on the habitat of the local population of that species. The
Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program of the Massachusetts Division of
Fisheries and Wildlife acts as the scientific authority to determine what is actual
habitat and to provide an opinion about whether proposed activities subject to the
Mass. Wetlands Protection Act will have adverse effects on rare wildlife habitat. An
opinion issued by the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program is presumed
to be correct, although this presumption is rebuttable and may be overcome upon a
clear showing to the contrary.
The Massachusetts Endangered Species Act and its regulations are
administered by the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. The Act
prohibits the "taking" of any species of animal or plant listed as "Endangered,"
"Threatened," or "Species of Special Concern" in Massachusetts. For animals, "taking"
is defined as: "to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, hound, kill, trap, capture, collect,
possess, disrupt the nesting, breeding, feeding, or migratory activity or attempt to
engage in any such conduct, or to assist such conduct." Regulations implementing the
Act state further that: "All state agencies shall utilize their authorities in furtherance
of the purposes of Massachusetts Endangered Species Act and these regulations;
review, evaluate and determine the impact on Endangered, Threatened and Special
Concern species or their habitats of all works, projects, or activities conducted by
them; and use all practicable means and measures to avoid or minimize damage to
such species or their habitats." This includes "any work, project, or activity either
directly undertaken by a state agency, or if undertaken by a person, which seeks the
provision of financial assistance by an agency or requires the issuance of permits by
an agency."

0 Where there is no management undertaken to effectively implement the
Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's "Guidelines for Managing
Recreational Use of Beaches to Protect Piping Plovers, Terns and Their
Habitats in Massachusetts" (Appendix H), estimated rare species habitat
should be closed entirely to all off-road vehicle activity from mid-April
through late July. It should be noted, that development and implementation
of a management plan, which includes comprehensive monitoring, may result
in temporary closures of less duration then closures made without any
management. The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife should be
consulted regarding the development of such plans and the employment of
rare species monitors.

0 Off-road vehicular access for shellfishing should be a component of beach
management plans and cross-reference municipal shellfish management plans.
Such plans should be established by and with local officials, the Massachusetts

Types of Barrier Beach Off-Road Vehicle Closures to Protect
Piping Plover Chicks Between Hatching and Fledgling Periods
(aWroximately 35 days)

arrie.
eachf,

Barrier
Barrier
Spit Spit

100
Yards
... 100
Yards 100
ards
100
Yards 100
.... .. Yards
IDO
@Yards

Barrier
Beach

Figure I Figure 2 Figure 3

Closure of a section of beach to through Nest situated such that closure of Closure of beach 100 yards north and
traffic. Accesslegress to open beach beach 100 yards north and south of the south of the nest. Continued
areas is possible in either direction. Not nest is necessary. Traffic originates vehicletfoot passage allowed in area of
excluding pedestrian access. from one direction only or by ferry. Not barrier beach inaccessible to plover
excluding pedestrian access. chicks due to natural features such as
high dunes. Not excluding pedestrian
access.

Key:
Off-road vehicle corridor Area temporarily closed to off-road vehicles

0 Rare species nest with hatched but unfledged birds Impenetrable natural feature

Figure 15: Types of barrier beach off-road vehicle closures to protect piping
plover chicks between hatching and fledging (approximately 35
days). (This is a graphic illustration of Appendix H: Massachusetts
Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's "Guidelines for Managing
Recreational Use of Beaches to Protect Piping Plovers, Terns and
Their Habitats in Massachusetts."

Division of Marine Fisheries and in compliance with the above recommended
regulatory and management measures of the Massachusetts Wetlands
Protection Act, Mass. Endangered Species Acts, and U.S. Endangered Species
Act.

4) ESSENTIALVEHICLES

Remmmended Management Measures

� When all or part of a barrier beach is temporarily closed to off-road vehicle
use due to the presence of rare species, such as unfledged plover or tern
chicks, the beach manager should establish a policy that considers closing the
beach entirely to all off-road vehicles or closing it to recreational vehicles with
the exception of one or more "essential uses," where absolutely necessary.
The use of essential vehicles at a barrier beach will depend upon the site, its
conditions, and the amount and type of essential use proposed.

A certain amount of essential off-road vehicle use may be appropriate and
necessary for effective management of the barrier. The use of such vehicles
may be considered essential for the minimal amount of activity necessary to
provide for:
� Public safety;
� Law enforcement;
*Minimal maintenance of public property;
e Access to private dwellings not otherwise accessible;
e Rare species monitoring and management; and
e Research (wildlife, plants, geology).

� Escorts are recommended for essential vehicles to insure compliance with all
pertinent regulations and guidelines.

� Refer to Appendix H, Massachusetts Division of Fisheries, and Wildlife's
"Guidelines for Managing Use of Beaches to Protect Piping Plovers, Terns
and Their Habitats in Massachusetts," especially "IV. Management Guidelines"
for "Essential Vehicles."

0 After a period of time where essential vehicles are used, a thorough re-
evaluation should be made regarding any impacts from such use on wildlife
habitat and rare species. Management plans should be adjusted accordingly.

� Also see the previous section on Management Measures for "Off-road Vehicle
Driving Corridors."

CHAPTER 5

Restoration and Management Activities

Due in part to the uses described in the previous chapter, as well as the
natural actions of erosion and relative sea level rise, the barrier beach manager is
often confronted with various management options regarding restoration or protection
of resources. These options range from "hands-off' or "let nature take its course"
policies to engineering/construction solutions.

This Chapter describes the various restoration and management activities that
occur on barrier beaches, including:
9 Activity Descriptions;
9 Resource Impacts; and
* Recommended Management Measures.

Among the activities covered are:
9 Erosion Control and Restoration Techniques, including: 1) dune and beach
construction and reconstruction; and 2) moving beach material. Covered under
construction and reconstruction are soft solutions (fences, Christmas trees, native and
exotic plants, and beach nourishment) and hard structures (groins, jetties, revetments,
seawalls, and bulkheads). Moving beach material entails overwash deposits and beach
scraping;
* Beach Cleaning of: 1) stone and gravel; 2) litter; and 3) wrack (including
day-to-day, storm, and winter wrack);
e Construction of Facilities, including pedestrian crossovers and walkways,
vehicle crossovers, roadways and parking lots, buildings and septic systems, and access
for the physically challenged;
* Nuisance Control, including: 1) insects; and 2) exotic plants;
9 Rare Species Predators;
- Other Wildlife Issues; and
* Trash.

These activities generally occur in resource areas subject to the jurisdiction of
the municipal conservation commission and the Mass. Department of Environmental
Protection under the Mass. Wetlands Protection Act and will require the filing of a
Notice of Intent. Consult Appendix 1, the Massachusetts Department of
Environmental Protection's "Recommended Conditions for Barrier Beaches" for
additional guidance. In addition, many municipalities have adopted wetlands
bylaws/ordinances that further regulate activities in resource areas, and should be
consulted prior to undertaking these restoration and management activities.

Erosion Control and Restoraflon Techniques

1) Dune and Beach Construction and Reconstruction

Under. the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, two of three primary
functions of a barrier beach are storm damage protection and flood control.
Managing a barrier beach in order to preserve these important natural functions
becomes increasingly necessary as development along the coast continues to increase
and relative sea level continues to rise. Barrier beaches must also be protected and
managed as places that provide important wildlife habitat, including that of rare
species -- the third primary function regulated on barrier beaches under the Wetlands
Act. Beach managers are thus placed in the precarious position of drafting
management plans that serve all these functions. When public health, safety and
structures are threatened by erosion, in and near rare species habitat, conflicts can
arise regarding the best methods of simultaneously protecting structures, wildlife
habitat, and rare species. The following may serve as helpful discussion in
determining the best methods for achieving these goals.
Management strategies should be determined by local issues in conformance
with federal, state, and local law. Consideration should be given to storm damage
prevention, flood control, and wildlife habitat in determining specific actions.

Resource Impacts - Soft Solutions

Coastal dunes and beaches can be naturally or artificially established or
enhanced. High dunes, natural or artificial, reduce erosion of the foreshore during
storms by acting as a sediment supply. Small, localized dune stabilization efforts,
particularly the planting of dune vegetation, are usually considered conservation and
storm damage prevention measures. Dune building techniques are generally used QDIX
when there is a need to protect existing facilities or access to those facilities.
A variety of measures have been used effectively over the years to stabilize
dunes, slow erosion of dunes and beaches, and trap and accrete sand to build up
beaches and dunes. Snow fences are placed along foredunes or beach berms to trap
and accrete sand. Rows of discarded Christmas trees are used to fill breaks in
foredunes, and beach grass or other vegetation is planted to trap sand and stabilize
beaches and dunes. Hard structures, such as jetties and breakwaters, (discussed later
on in this chapter) have been used to reduce wave@ action, and groins have been
placed on many beaches to trap sand. Seawalls constructed of concrete or stone have
been built on a number of beaches and dunes in an attempt to protect buildings from
damage by waves.
While many of these methods have been effective in preventing or slowing
erosion on a limited scale, they do not offer the all purpose panacea -- for they too
can present problems for beach managers. Sand gathering devices can alter the
natural geology and ecology of the barrier beach; create aesthetic problems by
introducing man-made structures or non-indigenous items into the natural
environment; and reduce the ability of the beach to allow for dune rollover and to

protect the backshore from flooding.
In addition, sand gathering devices can affect wildlife habitat and rare species.
Breeding habitat for terns and piping plovers and other barrier beach species in
Massachusetts and elsewhere along the Atlantic coast has been degraded or lost as
the result of a variety of coastal development and coastline stabilization activities.
Beaches and dunes have been altered to the point of being unacceptable to terns and
plovers through construction of recreational and residential dwellings, commercial
buildings, boardwalks, piers, roads and parking lots. Such activities not only physically
alter or cover over habitat used by nesting terns and nesting, feeding and roosting
plovers, but may also increase human use of adjacent beaches, which in turn may
result in increased human-caused disturbance of adult birds or mortality of eggs or
chicks.

Snow Fences and Christmas Trees
Snow fences and Christmas trees may be an appropriate means of building
dunes for storm damage protection and flood control or maintaining a barrier beach
system to manage blowing sand in and around built facilities and structures. However,
snow fences may create steep dune faces that are incompatible with plover nesting.
Snow fencing or Christmas tree fences placed in washover areas, blowouts, or other
areas used for nesting may represent actual physical barriers to plovers. The planting
of beach grass or other vegetation may result in habitats that are too densely
vegetated to be used by nesting least terns and plovers. All of these stabilization
structures or activities may temporarily impede some coastal storms from eroding and
scouring dunes and beaches, but they can also adversely affect least tern and plover
nesting habitat.
Wire from damaged snow fencing can also pose a threat to coastal wildlife,
including birds, fish, marine mammals, and others.
Discarded Christmas trees, used in coastal beach and dune erosion control and
restoration projects may become unearthed through wind and wave action and
become a solid waste nuisance along the coast.

Beach Nourishment
Nourishment" refers to the placement of sand on a beach or barrier beach
to increase its volume. The feasibility of nourishment should be evaluated in
combination with modification to any existing erosion control structures.
Nourishment sand may be obtained from several different sources and by
different methods. Sand may be moved from updrift of a groin to the downdrift
beach with an earthmoving machine such as a front-end loader. Sand dredged from
navigation channels may be pumped onto the eroded beach with hydraulic machinery.
Typically, sand nourishment must be performed periodically if the source of natural
sand no longer exists for a given beach area. Beach erosion rates should be
determined, the sources of sand and the mechanisms of beach nourishment must be
investigated, and the frequency and volume of sand necessary to maintain the beach
must be identified. Storm frequency and magnitude can greatly affect how much and
how often sand nourishment may be required.
Beach renourishment using dredged and other off-site materials is often the

preferred alternative to hard structures and a positive step for storm damage
prevention on barrier beaches. Beach nourishment projects also could be a significant
type of habitat alteration that may be either beneficial or detrimental to nesting
plovers and terns, particularly least terns. Deposition of dredged material on beaches
can substantially improve the quality and availability of plover and least tern habitat
by creating areas of nesting substrate that are higher, wider, and less vegetated than
were previously present at the site. Beach nourishment activities may adversely affect
breeding terns and plovers, if dredged material is not suitable nesting substrate, or if
deposition of dredged material occurs at a1ime and place that disturbs nesting birds.

Plants
Restoring dunes and marshes with vegetative plantings in appropriate areas
can be an effective method of storm damage restoration and erosion control,
especially in overwash areas in front of sections of developed barrier beaches. In
planning such restoration activities, care must be taken not to destroy rare species
habitat by improperly planting in overwash fans and low relief foredune areas that
may be utilized by species, such as piping plovers.

Recommended Management Measures

General Information
� The Mass. Department of Environmental Protection's "Recommended
Conditions for Barrier Beaches," found in Appendix 1, should be consulted.

� Environmental impacts may be less of a concern in small dune stabilization
projects outside of rare species habitat. Large dune building or restoration
projects require serious consideration. An investigation of the dynamics of
the barrier beach and the role the existing size of the dunes play in the barrier
dynamics, such as landward migration, must be considered. In addition, the
volume of sand added and its ultimate destination as a result of reworking by
aeolian and storm processes must be considered. Impacts to saltmarsh and
shellfish habitat are examples of off-site impacts that must be considered.

� It should be remembered that coastal dunes are presumed to be significant to,
among other interests, storm damage prevention, flood control, wildlife and
rare species habitat.

� Tbe source of sand for natural dune building is the adjacent beach. Where
beach volume has been reduced by human alterations (such as coastal
engineering structures), another sand source may be required. Sand which is
artificially or mechanically brought in to build a dune should be compatible
with the sand in adjacent natural dunes (see "Nourishment" section in this
chapter). Vegetative plantings should be done in conjunction with this
artificial dune construction.

100

The dimensions of an artificial dune should be similar to adjacent unaltered
16 natural dunes, if the latter are available for comparison. If not, an
experienced coastal geomorphologist should be consulted to determine the
optimum dune dimensions and locations.

Geomorphic Needs for Maximum Shoreline Property Protection
on Barrier Beaches

This opinion is based solely on shoreline property protection interests. It is recognized that
multiple interests, such as rare species protection, for bartier beach use must be balanced in any
initiative.

The geomorphic needs for maximum shoreline property protection include:

0 A wide, gently sloping beach or steep foreshore with a high, wide, multiple
berm backbeach;

0 A continuous, densely vegetated foredune ridge;

High volume foreduries, ideally with the frontal dune reservoir greater than
540 square feet (as explained in the National Flood Insurance Program and
Related Regulations [44 Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1, �65.11].
For example, a dune with greater than 540 square feet of sand in the frontal
dune quadrant has in most cases survived a 100-year storm event, although in
a seriously eroded state; dunes without the requisite amount of sand in the
frontal quandrant may be washed away in a similar type of storm [see figure
on page 102];

Densely vegetated, continuous or undulating, high volume inter- and backdune
fields;

When considering the long-term stability of a barrier beach, some overtopping
of dunes may be beneficial in certain areas in order to allow for storm-related
(wave) energy release mechanisms to occur and in order to allow for dune and
beach overwash, necessary in any barrier beach migration. However, in the
sole interest of protecting property/structures, artificial dune construction with
dune grass plantings or dune building enhancement techniques in overwash
areas, such as constructing multiple rows of snow/sand fencing accompanied
by dense dune grass plantings, should begin immediately following an
overwash event; and

A nearshore sand bar is also beneficial.

In summary, for maximum shoreline protection, it may be necessary that there
be a continuous, high volume, densely vegetated dune field, particularly foredunes,
fronted by a wide, gently sloping beach, or steep foreshore, with multiple berm
backbeach.

101

VERTICAL UNE FROM PEAK
OF FRONTAL DUNE
SAND RESERVOIR TO BE ANALYZED
TO DETERMINE DUNE FAILURE
POTENTIAL INLAND EXTENT OF
PRIMARY FRONTAL DUNE
Still Water Flood Level
100-YEAR SWFL - PRIMARY
FRONTAL
DUNE
BACKSHORE -

BEACH -
N-G.V.D. MINIMUM
LIMIT OF V ZONE

FACTORS TO BE CONSIDERED IN DETERMINING
DUNE FAILURE POTENTIAL AND V ZONE MAPPING

Figure 16: Factors to be considered in determining dune failure potential and
velocity zone mapping (adapted from Federal Emergency
Management Agency National Flood Insurance Program and
Related Regulations, Federal Register, Volume 53, Number 88,
May 6, 1988, page 16271).

102

Sacrificial Dunes
"Sacrificial dunes," as defined by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and
supported by the Federal Emergency Management Agency have been
designed and erected on some barrier beaches in Massachusetts as a means
of short-term storm damage protection to landward development. These are
typically low-lying man-made dunes, the purpose of which is to withstand a
storm of five years in frequency. However, in their design, they will be
sacrificed during a minor storm while having provided only temporary
protection for landward development. These dunes must also be regularly
maintained, often at significant expense for the protection they provide.
Because these are federal activities, they will be subject to a �7 finding made
by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the permitting federal agency under
the U.S. Endangered Species Act (see page 63). Such activities will also be
reviewed by the Mass. Coastal Zone Management Office for federal
consistency with state coastal policies.

Fences
In highly exposed areas, sets of sand fence installed during the autumn and
parallel to the beach and dune face build a dune more quickly than beach
grass plantings (Knutson, 1977). The most effective technique, however, is to
plant beach grass in conjunction with fence use.

'Me best fence material is snow fence with a 50% porosity, held in place by
posts at 10 to 15 foot intervals. Snow fence is widely available, catches sand
better than brush fence, is less expensive than fabric fence, requires less labor
to install than fabric or brush fence, and is less subject to vandalism than
fabric fence (Woodhouse, 1978).

Whenever and wherever possible, coastal managers should allow natural
processes of beach and dune accretion and erosion to occur, and should not
undertake beach and dune stabilization projects that will alter and degrade
wildlife habitat, particularly for rare species such as terns and plovers.
Although installation of snow fencing and beach grass plantings are usually
encouraged as the most natural stabilization methods, they should generally
not occur in actual rare species habitat.

Use of snow fencing and shrubs is typically an effective means for controlling
pedestrian access and delineating vehicle travel corridors and parking lots in
heavy use areas. There should be no placement of tires, pallets or other solid
waste on barrier beaches.

Christmas Trees
The use of discarded Christmas trees for coastal beach and coastal dune
erosion control and restoration purposes should be carefully scrutinized.
Discarded Christmas trees may be used in appropriate instances to restore an
eroded dune which protects an existing built facility, previously designated off-

103

road vehicle routes, or pedestrian access routes. However, discarded Christmas
trees should not be placed in actual rare species habitat.

Beach Nourishment
0 Sand used for nourishment should be similar in size to that of the natural
beach. Sometimes sand of a larger size is necessary for nourishment if all
natural sources of sand have been depleted.

0 When used for beach nourishment, compatible material should have a grain
size that is equal to or less than 10% of that which is presently on site or was
on site. To determine if sand is "compatible" with the nourishment site,
scientific assistance should be sought.

Dredged material to be deposited on tern and plover nesting beaches for the
function of storm damage prevention should be sand or a combination of
sand, gravel or shells if it is to also be acceptable nesting substrate.
Deposition should take place between September 15 and April 1, when
nesting terns and/or plovers and migratory shorebirds are not present. In
accessing dredging work sites, vehicles should not enter areas where there are
unfledged terns and plovers. Compatible dredged material will be most
attractive to breeding least terns and piping plovers if the deposition area
gradually slopes to the water's edge and if it is not subsequently planted with
beach grass or crisscrossed with snow fencing for stabilization purposes.

Dune Stabilization in Rare Species Habitat
On beaches and dunes that have been determined to be actual rare species
habitat, alterations to the natural system are generally discouraged and often
prohibited under the Mass. Wetlands Protection Act and Mass. Endangered Species
Act. However, there may be instances where erosion control projects, such as dune
and beach rebuilding and enhancement, including the installation of snow fences, the
planting of beach grass, and other soft solutions for beach and dune stabilization, may
be necessary in order to protect public health and safety by preventing or minimizing
an imminent threat from storm damage and flooding.
In such cases, the Mass. Coastal Zone Management Office, Mass. Division of
Fisheries and Wildlife, and the Department of Environmental Protection will provide
technical assistance and will determine, on a ease-by-case basis, whether such
projects may be permitted with appropriate monitoring and controls.
In such instances, the following information should be provided in a Notice
of Intent, filed under the Mass. Wetlands Protection Act, to the municipal
conservation commission, Mass. Department of Environmental Protection, and Mass.
Division of Fisheries and Wildlife:

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1. Documentation showing that the erosion control project as designed will prevent
or minimize an imminent threat from storm damage and flooding to existing:
0 Structures;
0 Necessary infrastructure;
0 Sole access to existing structures; and/or
0 Necessary navigational interests.

2. A written opinion from a qualified coastal geologist, geomorphologist, or other
expert in such matters, showing that the erosion control project, as designed, will
prevent or minimize an imminent threat to those interests it is designed to protect.
[This minimum level of documentation may be supplemented with additional
supporting materials.]

3. A timetable showing that no work will take place when rare species are present
on site.

4. Comprehensive data necessary to determine whether or not an imminent threat
exists (as requested in #1 above) could be quite costly. Therefore, a preliminary
analysis may be performed which incorporates a minimal amount of necessary
information. Such information should include:
� Beach and dune cross-sectional profiles;
� Tidal and storm elevations, such as mean high water, mean low water, ten-,
fifty-, and 100-year storm elevations superimposed on the beach and dune
cross-sectional profiles;
� Location and elevation of structures, access to those structures, navigation
channels and basins, and/or natural resources that are claimed to be in
imminent danger from storm and flood damage. For structures, first floor and
ground elevations should be indicated and accompanied by notation on the
community Flood Insurance Rate Map. In addition, the presence of a coastal
engineering structure, such as a revetment, seawall, groin, jetty, or breakwater,
protecting the structure should be noted;
A plan, or preferably a low altitude aerial photograph, showing the location
of existing conditions, such as: state-listed rare species habitat; overwash
areas; snow fencing; areas of planted beach grass; off-road vehicle and
pedestrian corridors; jeopardized dwellings; dwelling access routes; jeopardized
necessary infrastructure; navigation basins and channels; natural resources; and
proposed dune construction or dune building enhancement projects, including
proposed snow fence, beach grass, and sediment nourishment locations.
Tidal elevations and tidal time lags for both bay and ocean side of the barrier,
along with any other relevant supporting data.

A written opinion from the Mass. Natural Heritage and Endangered Species
Program will then be issued to the municipal conservation commission and Mass.
Department of Environmental Protection regarding whether the proposed minimum
necessary erosion control project, with mitigative measures, will or will not have a
short- or long-term adverse impact on the local population of rare species. The
municipal conservation commission or the Mass. Department of Environmental

105

Protection will then decide whether or not the proposed project meets the
Performance Standards of the Mass. Wetlands Protection Act.

77sese technical requirements are based on the agencies' best and current thinking and are subject
to change as more research is completed and more individual cases are reviewed under the Mass.
Wetlands Protection Act and Mass. Endangered Species Act.

Plants - Native Species
The following is a suggested species list for the various vegetated zones found
on barrier beaches:

Pioneer Zone (beach face)
Beach pea (Lathyrus japonicus)
Seabeach sandwort (Arenaria peploiles)
0 Sea rocket (Cakile edentula)
0 Dusty miller (Artemisia stellerfana) - a "naturalized" species
The above plants may be termed "dune initiators" in that over time they can
form embryonic dunes by trapping sand and by providing a seed source for the
foredune areas. These plants often occur naturally from seed sources brought
in with wrack material.

Primary Dune
0 American beachgrass (Ammophila brevifigulata)
0 Beach pea (Lathyrus Japonicus)
Seaside Goldenrod (Solidago sempervirens)
American beachgrass is the best species to use for erosion control because of
it's extensive root systems and ability to accumulate sand rapidly. However,
for reasons not well understood, it does not do well in sand-starved interdunal
areas (some scientists attribute this phenomenon to the nutrient supply
associated with fresh. sand).

Secondary Dune
0 American beachgrass (Ammophila breviligulata)
0 Beach plum (P@unus maritima)
Seaside Goldenrod (Solidago sempervirens)
Bayberry (Mytica pensylvanica)
Beach heather (Hudsonia tomentosa)
Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)
Beach rose (Rosa rugosa)
This last item is a "naturalized" species that may be used as a last resort in
pedestrian control. Care should be taken so that the planting of beach rose
does not in any way adversely effect rare species habitat.

Secondary Dune Salt Marsh Border
Marsh elder (Iva ftutescens)
Groundsel - tree (Baccharis halimifolia)

106

Sweet gale (Mytica gale)
These species should be planted above the spring tide line.

Salt Marsh
� Smooth Cordgrass (Spardna altemiflora)
� Saltmeadow Cordgrass (Sparfina paten s)
Smooth cordgrass requires daily inundation by the tides. Therefore,
this species should be planted between mean low water and mean high
water. Saltmeadow cordgrass, may be planted from mean high water to
spring high water.

Planting Information -- Nativei Species
For a detailed description and information on propagation and planting
techniques for dune and marsh areas, there are several good publications
listed at the end of this section. The following are some general guidelines
for American Beachgrass and smooth cordgrass.

American Beachgrass: Plant 1-2 culms on 18 inch centers, 8 inches in
depth. For a greater density, culms can be planted 12 inch on center, but
keep in mind the rhizomes (underground roots) of this plant can spread 6 to
10 feet horizontally annually. Sand should be pressed firmly down around the
culms after planting. Planting should occur from fall to early spring. Planting
fertilization may be done with low amounts of nitrogen (15-25 pounds per
acre) to enhance the establishments of the new culms.

Smooth Cordgrass: There are three factors to consider when deciding
whether or not to plant Spattina altemiflora: tidal range, wave activity, and
salinity. In areas with a limited tidal range, of less that three or four feet, the
plants can be placed between Mean Low Water and Mean High Water.
However, in areas with a larger tidal range, plants may only survive between
Mean Sea Level and Mean High Water. The upper and lower limits of
growth may be estimated by looking at nearby established stands of marsh
grass. Salt marshes occur generally in areas of low wave energy. The larger
the open water (referred to as off-shore fetch) over which wind can blow and
generate waves, the more intense wave conditions will be at the shoreline. If
planting or transplanting is not to originate from a site nearby with similar soil
salinity, soil should be tested for salinity. SpaWna altemiflora will tolerate
a wide range of salinity, from almost fresh to very salty ( 2.5 to 42.5 parts per
thousand) soil solutions. Salinities of soil solutions exceeding 45 parts per
thousand could cause a die-back of plantings.
Sprigs (part of plant consisting of a least one node) or plugs (mass of
roots and stems with some original soil) should be planted four to six inches
deep, two to three feet spacings between plants in staggered rows. In more
exposed sites, plugs should be planted closer together.

107

Planting Information -- Exotic Species
VAen selecting the plant species, only indigenous species should be used.
Native plants have evolved over time to adapt to the region's climate, soil
conditions, diseases, and other factors. Native plants are much more valuable
to the native wildlife who have also evolved utilizing the indigenous plant
species for food, cover and brooding areas. Introducing exotic plant materials
can have devastating effects on the local ecological balance. For example,
common reed (Phragmites), long presumed to be an exotic, has taken over
many acres of formerly highly productive fresh and salt water marshes across
the nation.

Referernes

Lewis, Roy R. III, editor. "Creation and Restoration of Coastal Plant Communities."
CRC Press, Incorporated, Boca Raton, Florida.
"Propagation of Sparfina for Coastal Erosion Control," University of Massachusetts
Cooperative Extension Service, Information Bulletin No. 3, July 1985.
"Marine and Coastal Facts, Establishing New Salt Marshes," University of
Massachusetts, Cooperative Extension Service, and Massachusetts Institute of
Technology Sea Grant Program. No. 7.

108

Resource Impacts - Hard Structures

Groins and Jetties
Groins are designed to trap sediment from longshore drift to build a protective
or recreational beach. Jetties are designed to direct or confine river or tidal flow into
a channel and prevent or reduce the shoaling of the channel by littoral material.
Both are generally shore perpendicular structures which interrupt longshore sediment
transport. Beaches generally accrete on the updrift side of these structures, however,
without adequate natural or artificial sediment by-passing, areas immediately downdrift
become sediment starved and erosion results. Erosion of the downdrift beach
diminishes the storm damage prevention and flood control characteristics of the beach
possibly resulting in unnecessary storm damage to landward structures and resources.
Increased overwash events may occur as a result of downdrift erosion caused by these
structures. In addition, the resultant changes in sediment volume and elevation may
affect shellfish and finfish and their habitat.

Revetinents, Seawalls and Bulkheads
Revetments, seawalls and bulkheads are structures placed parallel or nearly
parallel and adjacent to the shoreline in order to separate a land area from a water
area. The primary purpose of a seawall or revetment is to protect the upland area
from erosion by waves and currents. The distinction between the three structures is
mainly a matter of purpose. It is generally accepted that seawalls are vertical
structures for protection against heavy wave action whereas bulkheads act as retaining
walls, preventing crumbling or slumping of the earth or sand behind them. Bulkheads
are often associated with piers, wharves, and filled tidelands. Revetments are placed
on a slope for protection against waves and currents and largely depend on the
underlying soil for support.
All three structures prohibit natural processes from eroding the underlying
landform, thereby trapping the primary source of beach and dune material that is
required to resupply beaches and dunes (and other landforms formed by coastal
processes). These coastal engineering structures, particularly vertical structures, can
also cause erosion in front of them due to reflection of storm waves. Flanking
erosion and scouring of abutting property due to wave refraction can also occur and
can be a major concern. Over the short-term, in addition to the above impacts, in the
presence of these engineered structures the critical sand sharing system between
dunes, beaches and the nearshore areas, particularly during coastal storms, is unable
to function. This sand sharing system contributes to decreased storm wave damage by
temporary erosion of the dune and beach to form nearshore sand bars which help
dissipate storm wave energy. Following a storm, nearshore bars migrate landward and
lead to berm development and eventually sand transport back to the primary dunes
by way of aeolian processes. Over the long-term, the most serious adverse effect of
these coastal engineering structures is their interference with the landward shifting of
the barrier beach.

109

Recommended Management Meawres

General Information
� The Mass. Department of Environmental Protection's "Recommended
Conditions for Barrier Beaches," found in Appendix 1, should be consulted.

Groins and Jetties
� Groins are generally prohibited on barrier beaches under the Mass. Wetlands
Protection Act. Jetties may only be allowed to protect existing navigation
channels.

� Several corrective techniques are suggested to minimize downdrift erosion
problems being caused by existing groins: remove, shorten, or lower the
groin; increase the porosity of the groin; backfill the groin to capacity with
compatible material; or nourish the eroding downdrift beach.

� Adverse impacts caused by jetties can be minimized by establishing or
constructing a sediment by-pass system across the inlet. Downdrift beach
nourishment may also be required.

Site specific analyses are necessary to determine the appropriate corrective
techniques(s).

Revetments, Seawalls and Bulkheads
New seawalls, revetments and bulkheads on barrier beaches are generally
inconsistent with the performance standards under the Mass. Wetlands
Protection Act, and, therefore, are likely to be prohibited.

110

2) Moving Beach Material

Resource Impacts

Overwash Deposits
Barrier beaches exhibit a dynamic equilibrium due to the forces of winds,
waves, tides, currents, storms and relative sea level rise. The stability of a barrier
beach depends primarily on its ability to respond and reshape to these natural forces
and to maintain its dynamic equilibrium through overwash. Overwash is the principal
mechanism by which sediment is transported across a barrier beach and occurs when
storm waves breach or overtop a dune system. Overwashed material is commonly
carried into the landward bay or onto the landward saltmarsh and visibly extends the
landward limit of the barrier. The overwashed material provides for new substrate for
both new dune and saltmarsh development with drift piles (wrack) providing the
nuclei for their growth. On an eroding or transgressive barrier, overwash is critical
to the continued existence of the barrier. As the seaward side of the barrier erodes,
overwash allows for the same environmental conditions and habitats to be continually
recreated through time, only shifting more landward. If overwash is prevented or
overwashed material is removed on an eroding or transgressive barrier, the barrier will
continue to narrow over time (from both sides) and the barrier may become
increasingly susceptible to breaching. The physical removal of sand and gravel from
overwash areas artificially narrows and lowers the barrier on the landward side. This
practice results in erosion of both sides of the barrier and a hastened demise of the
beach. In addition, removal of sand and gravel from an overwash area may make the
barrier more susceptible to storm wave damage from the bay side if an adequate
distance (fetch) across the landward water body exists for waves to develop.

l1each Scraping
Beach scraping is the process of removing sand from a beach in order to
rebuild storm-damaged dunes. Artifically removing sand from a beach lowers the
beach elevation and may change the slope of the beach thereby causing subsequent,
increased storm damage to landward areas. In addition, if a coastal beach slope is
altered as a result of scraping, waves may break differently on the beach face
mimicing storm conditions with the result being increased erosion. Typically, the
beach will repair itself with time to create a stable slope/profile.

Recommended Management Measures

General Inrormation
The Mass. Department of Environmental Protection's "Recommended
Conditions for Barrier Beaches," found in Appendix I, should be consulted.

Overwash Deposits
0 The removal of overwash material that has been deposited on a coastal beach,
coastal dune or salt marsh is generally not consistent with the performance
standards of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and is therefore
,likely to be prohibited. Overwash materials, in this instance, should be left in
place.

0 Management options for removal of overwash material in roads and parking
lots or back barrier navigation channels is site-specific. However, the preferred
managment option is to place the overwash material back into the pre-storm
foredune location, or if possible, slightly landward of this location. It should
be noted, however, that continually removing the material from the barrier
may have the long-term impact of narrowing the barrier by starving the barrier
of needed sediment.

0 Overwash sites on barrier beaches and dunes are often prime rare species
habitat for piping plovers and should generally be left in an unaltered state.

Beach Scraping
0 Beach scraping is generally not consistent with the performance standards of
the Mass. Wetlands Protection Act, as changing the form or volume of a
coastal beach is not allowed. 'Ilierefore, beach scraping is likely to be
prohibited.

112

16 Beach Cleaning

1) Stone and Cobble

Resource impacts

Stone and cobble are natural by-products of glacial erosion; much of the
cobble on Massachusetts beaches was created during the last great Ice Age as ice
sheets retreated northward. Pieces of rock were subsequently deposited in secondary
landforms, such as beaches. Eroding beaches with low volumes of updrift sediment
input generally contain sizable volumes of cobble in the nearsurface substrate. Cobble
on a beach provides for substrate which helps provides elevation to the beach profile
or berm. A high sandy or cobble berm provides storm damage prevention and flood
control for landward areas.
The practice of removing cobble from beaches has been identified as a
possible cause of increased storm damage. The removal of sand or cobble from a
beach lowers the beach profile thereby allowing storm wave energy to dissipate in
more landward areas possibly causing otherwise avoidable damage. The isolated cases
where this practice has been conducted in the Commonwealth have usually been for
the purpose of recreational enhancement resulting in a greater expanse of sandy
beach surface. However, if cobble exists on the surface of a beach, it is generally just
as abundant below the surface due to the glacially derived nature of landforms in
Massachusetts. After a short period of time following cobble removal, surficial sands
are generally winnowed out and cobble reappears.

Recommended Management Measures

� The Mass. Department of Environmental Protection's "Recommended
Conditions for Barrier Beaches," found in Appendix 1, should be consulted.

� 'Me practice of stone and cobble removal from beaches is generally
inconsistent with the performance standards under the Massachusetts
Wetlands Protection Act and is therefore likely to be prohibited.

� Management options for removal of overwash materials, such as cobble, that
have been deposited on roads and parking lots or back barrier navigation
channels is site-specific. However, the preferred management option is to
place the overwash material back onto the pre-storm location, or if possible,
slightly landward of this location. It should be noted, however, that
continually removing overwash cobble from the barrier beach may have the
long-term impact of narrowing the barrier (as shown previously in the section
on "Moving Beach Material - Overwash Deposits").

113

2) UUer

Re-source Impacts

Although litter may be considered primarily a problem of aesthetics, debris
items on the beach may also lead to wildlife entanglement or ingestion. Known
causes of entanglement include monofilament line and netting, six-pack yokes, and
rope. Mistaking debris as food items, marine animals have eaten balloons, plastic
bags, and assorted plastic pieces. Debris may come from either land-side sources,
such as beachgoers, or marine sources, such as recreational and fishing boats. A large
portion of the marine debris is caught up in the wrack line, while land-side litter often
blows up into dunes and beach grass areas.

Recommet7ded Mcewagemwt Measures

Litter should be removed by hand whenever possible. For public safety and
aesthetic reasons, litter should be removed on a daily basis early each. morning
and, when possible, each evening at recreational beaches during the summer
season. Lifeguards are often best employed to carry out this function with
hand-held poled nets prior to going on life saving duty.

The Massachusetts Coastal Zone Managment Office sponsors a "Coastsweep"
program each September (traditionally the third Saturday in September)
during "Coastweeks." This typ e of volunteer cleanup has proven to be an
effective means of educating the public about the problems and hazards of
debris along the beach. By involving schools, youth groups, civic organizations,
and businesses, this public service program creates a feeling of stewardship
among participants for their beaches. The program also gives beach managers
the opportunity to clean sections of beach that are typically inaccessible, due
to distance or topography, to typical beach cleaning methods.
During the cleanup, volunteers use data cards to catalog the types of
debris collected. This information is later analyzed at both state and national
levels. In Massachusetts, it has been shown that plastics represent about two-
thirds of all debris counted (by item number, not weight). Cigarette butts are
the single most prevalent debris item.
Cleanup volunteers are instructed to collect all man-made items, such
as plastic, foamed plastic (such as styrofoam), rubber, glass, metal, paper,
wood, and cloth, but to leave organic materials in place. These "natural" items
include animal wastes, seaweeds, dead animals, and drift wood. Volunteers
are told to notify the beach manager or local cleanup coordinator when they
come across any potentially hazardous materials, such as suspected medical
wastes, and not touch the materials themselves. With items such as 55-gallon
drums of unknown contents, they are instructed to mark the information on
the card, notify the beach manager, but not attempt to remove the item
personally.

114

A regular program of volunteer beach cleanups, or an "Adopt a Beach"
program, can provide the needed hands to remove the constant influx of
debris that comes from both landside and waterside sources, as well as many
of the small, but oftentimes dangerous items such as broken glass, that may
be missed during regular beach maintenance. Contact the Massachusetts
Coastal Zone Mangement Office at (617) 727-9530 to participate in
Coastsweep."

Spring beach cleanups are also encouraged.

Beach concessions should be encouraged to use recycled materials and to
recycle discarded items.

Also refer to the section on "Trash" discussed later in this Chapter.

115

3) Wrack

Resource Impacts

Day-to-Day Wrack
Washed-up eel grass or seaweed is a source of nutrients and seeds for the
pioneer species of flora associated with wrack lines, provides foraging habitat for
shorebirds, and provides substrate for accumulating sand for the beach berm.

Storm Wrack and Winter Wrack
In "T'he Impact of Off-Road Vehicles on Coastal Ecosystems in Cape Cod
National Seashore: An Overview" (Leatherman and Godfrey, 1978), the authors state
that: "The most sensitive zone of the high beach is the drift-line zone, which consists
chiefly of organic material deposited on the backshore during high spring tides or
storms. Drift lines on northern beaches contain large quantities of marine algae,
eelgrass, and marsh detritus. Bacteria and fungi quickly break down this organic
matter, releasing nutrients into the sand and eventually back to the sea. The drift-line
zone also contains fragments and seeds of dune plants and is therefore a significant
site for new dune development on open sand. Regeneration of beach grass
(Ammophila) on a bare sand beach is almost exclusively by growth of plant fragments
washed from eroding dunes and redeposited on the beach as drift. Once the plants
are established, embryonic dunes can develop, provided they are not destroyed by
storms or off road vehicle impact."
Beach cleaning may have an effect on wildlife habitat and rare species. Beach
cleaning, done either by hand or mechanically, such as with a Cherrington machine,
may substantially reduce the quality and quantity of foraging substrate available to
shorebirds, including the rare piping plover, by removing wrack (seaweed, vegetation,
shells and other organic debris deposited by tidal action). Wrack is beneficial to
piping plovers in two ways. First, it is a primary substrate for invertebrate life, such
as various types of amphipods and dipteran larvae, eggs and adults that serve as food
for plovers. Second, wrack provides cover for plovers, especially small chicks.
Data from three separate studies have shown that wrack is a preferred feeding
habitat for piping plover chicks. At Breezy Point on Long Island, Goldin and others
(1990) found that plover chicks spent 59% of their time feeding. Of that feeding
time, 76% was spent in wrack, although wrack comprised only 8% of available feeding
habitat above the intertidal zone. At 6 beaches in Massachusetts in 1988 and 1989,
plover chicks spent 35% of their time feeding (Hoopes and others 1992, unpublished
data). Of that feeding time, 63% was in wrack, although wrack comprised only 3%
of available feeding habitats at all sites combined. At Seawall Beach in Maine, Gibbs
(1986) found that plover foraging activity on the upper beach was concentrated
around seaweed clumps, and track densities in plots that contained seaweed were
more than twice that of plots without seaweed.
In the "Buzzards Bay Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan,"
published by the Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management Office and the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (August, 1991), the issue of beach wrack at
Buttermilk Bay in Bourne was thoroughly researched and monitored by the Buzzards

116

Bay Project. The document's "Management Recommendations and Action Plans
(Volume I, page 167) contains the following:
"Beach wrack, which in Buttermilk Bay consists largely of decaying eelgrass and
algae, appears to act as a protected repositoty for fecal colifonn. 77tis wrack has been
found to be an important source of fecal colif6nn. ne relationship between wrack and
the fecal indicator was studied in the field as well as under simulated conditions in the
laboratory. Laboratory experiments showed that (1) fecal indicators are present and
dissociate from wrack and (2) incubation in wrack piles along the shoreline prolongs
survival, and possibly induces growth, of fecal coliform.
Field testing involved removing wrackfrom four beaches and monitoring bacteria
before and after removal. At one of four sites, bacterial counts on outgoing tides were
distinctly lower than counts prior to removal. Both laboratory erperiments and field
observations clearly show the potentialfor wrack to be a signficant factor influencingfecal
coliform levels in the bay. However, it is probably only in poorly flushed areas that
removing the wrack will show major water quality improvement. Because the efficiency
of this strateV is questionable and probably impractical on a large scale, it does not
appear that this is a priority management option.

Recommended Management Measures

� The Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's "Guidelines for Managing
Recreational Use of Beaches to Protect Piping Plovers, Terns and Their
Habitat in Massachusetts," found in Appendix H, and the Mass. Department
of Environmental Protection's "Recommended Conditions for Barrier
Beaches," found in Appendix 1, should be consulted.

� Mechanical beach cleaning equipment, such as Cherrington machines, should
not be used in rare species habitat. Inorganic debris and materials considered
hazardous to public health or safety should be removed by hand as soon as
possible.

� Sufficient wrack should be left on the beach in order to provide a seed source,
nutrient source, and foraging habitat for shorebirds. Wrack removal should
be prohibited in rare species habitat and significant migratory shorebird
staging areas from April 1 to September 15.

Managers should limit the amount of eel grass or seaweed removed from the
beach by the public for composting or aesthetic reasons, to protect the
interests described.

In areas where it has been determined by public health officials that excessive
amounts of washed up vegetation is a public health and/or safety hazard, only
that amount of material necessary to abate the public health or safety threat
should be removed from the beach. The municipal conservation commission
should be consulted prior to any removal activity.

117

Saft Ponds

Recommended Management Measures

Where it is proposed to cut or dredge a barrier beach in order to "drain" a salt
pond to improve marine fisheries, the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act
must be complied with along with Mass. Department of Environmental
Protection Policy 91-2 "Criteria for Evaluating and Permitting Openings of
Salt Ponds in Order to Manage, Maintain or Enhance Marine Fisheries,"
found at Appendix I

118

ConstrucUon of Facilities

Recommended Management Measures

General Information
� The Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's "Guidelines for Managing
Recreational Use of Beaches to Protect Piping Plovers, Terns and Their
Habitat in Massachusetts," found in Appendix H, and the Mass. Department
of Environmental Protection's "Recommended Conditions for Barrier
Beaches," found in Appendix I, should be consulted.

0 This section has been the subject of statutory and regulatory interpretation by
municipal conservation commissions and the Massachusetts Department of
Environmental Protection since promulgation of the Massachusetts Wetlands
Protection Act's Coastal Regulations in 1978 and the subsequent adoption of
municipal wetlands bylaws/ordinances. There is thus a well defined and
documented case history guiding beach managers and others on how to
properly address proposed construction activities on barrier beaches. For
statutory, regulatory, and policy information, contact the relevant municipal
conservation commission at the city or town hall and the Massachusetts
Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Wetlands and
Waterways at (617) 292-5695. For technical assistance, contact the
Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management Office at (617) 727-9530.

� For information on the restoration and development of ocean beach
recreation areas, see the Massachusetts Department of Environmental
Management publication: "Sandcastles and Sandpipers" (1988). The
publication provides detailed guidelines on: dune stabilization, protection and
access; beach parking and circulation; construction of beach facilities,
including compliance with regulations, architectural style and scale, building
materials and structure locations; bathhouses and comfort stations; and
management and maintenance operations of beach facilities. Copies of the
document can be obtained from the Department by calling (617) 727-3160.

Development on barrier beaches is discouraged. However, recreational,
environmental protection, and interpretive facilities may be appropriate in
some instances.

Buildings and Septic Systems
Septic system placement is regulated through the Massachusetts Sanitary
Code, Title 5. Contact the Mass. Department of Environmental Protection's
Division of Water Pollution Control at (617) 292-5673 or the municipal board
of health office for more detailed information.

Septic systems should not be located in flood plain Velocity Zones as

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indicated on the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Flood Insurance
Rate Maps.

All new or expanded structures on barrier beaches should be elevated, at a
minimum, above the 100-year floodplain on pile foundations and in
accordance with the State Building Code and Federal Emergency
Management Agency regulations and be at a minimum of two (2) feet above
existing topography to allow for the movement of sand and sediments due to
wave and wind action.

Habitable structures should not be built in flood plain Velocity Zones on
barrier beaches, as identified on the Federal Emergency Management
Agency's Flood Insurance Rate Maps.

Where coastal erosion seriously threatens the integrity of an existing structure
and the safety of its occupants, a policy of shoreline retreat should be
considered by barrier beach residents. Such a policy can include relocation
of a structure on site, to complete removal of a structure from the barrier
beach. Where properties have been repeatedly and substantially damaged by
storms, funds should be made available to acquire abandoned sites from
willing sellers. Such properties should eventually be turned over to local
authorities and managed for public access purposes.

Vehicle Crossovers, Roadways and Parking Lots
� In some instances where roads on migrating barrier beaches are subject to
continual and repeated storm damage, it may be necessary to investigate
permanent road abandonment and relocation, such as was done with Pamet
Road at Ballston (barrier) Beach in the Town of Truro; or the construction
of a bridge, as was done at Doane Road at Coast Guard (barrier) Beach in
Eastham.

Pedestrian Crossovers, Walkways and Boardwalks
� Control of Access -- The barrier dune system, associated coastal wetlands, and
the adjacent pioneer vegetation community are all very sensitive to foot
traffic. Because pedestrians will use the easiest route to their destination,
beach access routes must be designed to appear the easiest and most direct
in order to be successful in protecting the coastal environment. Access should
be controlled beginning as far back from the beach as possible, with fencing,
a railing or vegetation barrier around the parking lots and along walks, and
through the use of elevated'boardwalks with handrails on both sides.

� Boardwalk Walkover System -- Coastal regulations prohibit alteration of the
grade or profile of barrier dunes or the installation of structures that impede
the free movement of sand or water. Therefore:
1) Elevated boardwalks should be constructed in a manner which
involves negligible alteration to the primary dune;

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2) Boardwalks should be elevated to a minimum 2-foot clear space
with only posts or pilings in contact with the dune. This 2-foot minimum clear
space will allow for penetration of sunlight, grass growth, and easy movement
of sand underneath and will help in restricting random beach access. Planking
should be one (1) inch apart;
3) Elevated boardwalks should be ramped where possible (avoiding
steps) with railings on both sides and designed for accessibility by the
physically challenged (see Appendix K);
4) Periodically along the length of a boardwalk (particularly at the
ocean end), the boardwalk should be constructed in abutting breakaway
segments. In the event of a major storm, damage would be confined to only
a portion of the boardwalk instead of the entire structure; and
5) Boardwalks should be constructed in a zig-zag fashion in order to
avoid the development of wind and wave tunnels through the dune systems.

Access for the Physically Challenged
Access for the phycially challenged (also known as handicapped access) at
barrier beaches is a topic deserving of special attention and is thus detailed
in Appendix K. Access to barrier beaches must comply with the Americans
With Disabilities Act of 1990. Care must also be taken to comply with the
Masachusetts Wetlands Protection, Endangered Species, and Public
Waterfront Acts. The general guiding principle is to provide the highest level
of access while preserving the environment and character of access sites.

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Nuisance Control

1) insects

Resource Impacts

Greenhead Flies
Greenhead flies complete their entire lifecycle within a few miles of salt marsh
areas, and larvae forage around the surface muck, wet thatch and vegetation. Female
flies are equipped to pierce the skin, thus acting as a nuisance to humans. This
occurs mainly during daylight hours.
Greenhead flies have few natural predators. Robber flies, kingbirds, large
dragonflies and swallows capture adults while larvae are consumed by other insects
and crustaceans. Greenhead larvae prey on deer fly larvae, somewhat controlling
their numbers. Greenhead flies are not known to cause a public health or ecological
risk.

Mosquitoes
The salt marsh mosquito (Aedes solicitans) also occurs in great numbers near
salt marsh areas. Adult females bite humans and animals and may fly over ten miles
in search of blood. Salt marsh mosquitoes are generally a nuisance from early June
to late September and are most active at dawn and dusk.

Recomended Management Measures

Greenhead Flies
0 The use of commercial pesticides to kill greenhead flies should be avoided in
barrier beach ecosystems.

0 Control of greenhead flies around high intensity public beach use areas, such
as coastal summer residences and marinas, may be politically necessary. One
common method of control that poses no public health risk is the use of
greenhead fly box traps. These traps attempt to control greenhead fly
populations by capturing adults, although their overall effectiveness remains
questionable. Greenhead fly trap boxes attract only female flies after they
have laid their eggs and are looking for a warm spot in which to die.
Attracting tree swallows through the establishment of tree swallow nesting
boxes along barrier beaches may be a more effective means of controlling a
greenhead fly nuisance as the tree swallow feeds on these flies throughout the
course of their lifecycle.

0 Other means of greenhead fly management include educating the public and
the use of warning signs during the peak fly season of July and August.

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Personal measures to reduce the fly nuisance to humans include: the-wearing
of light colored or ultraviolet (UV) reflective clothing and long sleeved shirts
and pants (biting flies prefer dark objects over light); the application of a
repellant; avoiding use of sprays and perfumes, and decreasing metabolic
activity (and concomitant sweating) that serves to attract the biting fly;
conducting activities in wind-prone areas and when flies are less active,
especially in the early morning; keeping vehicle windows closed; and using
screens at coastal residences.

Mosquitoes
Adult mosquitoes have few natural predators. Some birds, such as swifts and
swallows, and small bats consume mosquitoes but only in a small proportion
to their total diet. Larvae are heavily predated by marine fish. One possible,
yet scientifically unproven, method of control that is ecologically safe is open
water marsh management, whereby a system of interconnecting pools permits
fish to move into shallow areas to feed where mosquitoes breed. It is very
difficult to control the nuisance level of salt marsh mosquitoes once they have
emerged as adults. Because mosquitoes will fly miles to obtain a bloodmeal
and are active during the day, it is difficult to avoid this species when engaged
in outdoor activities within a few miles of a salt marsh.

The use of commercial insecticides should be avoided on barrier beach
ecosystems.

� Public education and personal control methods should be made available to
the public by beach managers. Control techniques for salt marsh mosquitos,
biting midges, and others include: the wearing of light colored clothing;
frequenting breezy areas; avoiding.peak activity at dawn or dusk; and using
screens at coastal residences.

� An "integrated pest management" approach should be taken to manage any
insect species below its nuisance level. Water management in combination
with biological pest control can be used to control salt marsh mosquitoes
without negatively impacting the environment. It is important to emphasize
the potential negative impact of aerial spraying.

� Insect repellents may be a problematic solution. Recently, the Massachusetts
Audubon Society issued a warning about a common active ingredient in these
products. They reported: 117he safety of insect repellents has undergone
closer review. Repellents with DEET (NN-diethyl-m-toluamide) as the active
ingredient are the most effective but have caused serious toodc effects when
ingested, including seizures, a coma and even death. 77te chemical also is
readily absorbed through the skin and should be applied sparingly, especially
on children if it is used daily. Applications to the clothing may be preferable
in any case. Preparation with lower concentrations of DEET (35% or less) are
also effective and may be a better choice because they are less likely to cause
dangerous side effects.

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2) Exotic Plants

Barrier beach wildlife depend upon many types of vegetation for food, nesting and
predator escape. Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicada L) and Phragmites
(Phragmites australis ) are examples of invasive plants which are of particular concern
to barrier beach managers due to their tendency to crowd out competing native
vegetation in marshes, bogs, wet meadows, and other areas.

Resource Impacts

Purple Loosestrife
Purple loosestrife was introduced to North America from Eurasia in the early
1800's. This magenta flowering plant began rapid expansion westward away from the
Northeast seaport communities until today where it has reached the Pacific
Northwest.
Purple Loosestrife occurs widely in wet habitats such as marshes, fens, sedge
meadows, wet meadowlands, along roadside ditches, and around impoundments. It
can quickly crowd out native vegetation creating a monoculture which provides little
food or shelter for wildlife. Of particular interest is it's fecundity. A single stalk can
produce in excess of 300,000 seeds with a seed viability rate of 98%. Densities of
80,000 + stalks/acre have been observed in some locations, which has the potential
of creating a seed stock of 24 billion seeds/acre. Seeds are carried afield by wind,
water and in mud attached to animals.

Common Reed (Phragmites)
Phragynites australis is a perennial wetlands grass which can attain heights of
6-12 feet and is usually found in dense colonies bordering on marshes, swamps,
potholes and along the marsh-upland interface. Phragmites occurs naturally as well
as in disturbed areas. Often, it is an indicator of ecosystems stressed by pollution,
sedimentation, flooding, and filling.
As in purple loosestrife control, phragmites should first be identified as either
stable noninvasive stands or as expanding/invasive. Stable naturally occurring stands
should be left alone as this species does not preclude biodiversity as some other
nuisance species may.
Phraginites is comprised of a horizontal rhizome which allows the stand to
spread, a vertical rhizome which comprises the stalk and an aerial rhizome which
bears the fruit. The aerial shoots emerge and flower from July-September. 'Fhe seeds
may be distributed by wind or by birds which nest among the Phragmites.
I Phragmites has the ability to draw upon subsurface water sources and thus
may be effected by water table levels. It can withstand flooding up to 3 feet in depth
which can also limit competition from other native plant species. The plant however
has a I'imited tolerance to wind and wave action which may break the stalks. It's
biggest threat is to destabilize spartina marshes which support large diverse
populations of wildlife.

124

Recommended Management Measures

Purple Loosestrille
0 Most property managers have resorted to mechanical and chemical means of
control. However, the best control method is by far early detection and
removal of the few individual specimens by hand, using care not to shake
seeds or fragments of the plant.

0 The Nature Conservancy, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and various state
environmental management agencies recommend that affected areas of 3 acres
or less with less than 100 plants be treated by hand removal of all purple
loosestrife plants, taking care to remove the stock and tap root. Bag and
remove the plants immediately from the area and burn the plants to prevent
accidental seed distribution to other non-affected sites.

Where there are 4 acres or more of 100 plants, it is recommended that,
wherever possible, natural levels of salinity be restored to the barrier beach
ecosystem in order to inhibit the spread of such invasive species.

Monitoring: Beach managers should properly plan for purple loosestrife
control by documenting area size affected, relative number of plants in the
treatment area and the creation of photo documentation showing pre-control
and post-control. Monitoring and control efforts for loosestrife should be
conducted over several years since the plant can be expected to recolonize
areas after initial control efforts have ceased.

Future Control Efforts: Purple loosestrife control must be handled
aggressively to prevent uncontrolled spread of this non-indigenous vegetation.

Common Reed (Phragmites)
0 Areas that have been invaded by Phraginites have excellent potential for
recovery by natural wetlands vegetation. Phragmites control should be
centered around hand and mechanical removal.

0 Prescribed burning is effective in destroying the seed inventory of a stand but
firebrands can create uncontrolled spot fires and generally the prescribed burn
temperatures cannot kill the underground rhizomes due to the wet soil
conditions under which Phragnites exists.

9 Selective manipulation of water levels can also be effective in controlling
vitality of established stands, however this action may be unacceptable for
wildlife management purposes.

0 Selective cutting or mowing may be effective if the cutting is done in late July
since most of the food reserves can be removed from the upper portions of
the plant. This method must be used over successive years in order to remove

125

regenerated stalks. Care must also be used not to mow the stand too early
or late in the year, as the result may be to increase the density of the stand.

0 Wherever possible, vegetation along public access trails should be maintained
by careful and selective hand pruning methods.

0 In all cases, the beach manager must ensure that rare/threatened species are
protected.

0 It is imperative that barrier beach managers learn as much as possible about
vegetation control techniques, and consult with local, regional and wildlife
regulators.

Monitoring: Beach managers are urged to adopt a plan for controlling
Phraginites before taking any action. The first issue is to decide if the stand
in question is expanding in size. If not, it is recommended that no further
control be attempted. If monitoring of the stand area or density indicates
invasive tendencies, then the beach manager should begin photo
documentation of the area along with species inventories and planning for
prescribed controls.

References

The Nature Conservancy has produced several resource pamphlets on
Phragmites and purple loosestrife which can assist managers in deciding the best
methods for controlling these species. Copies of the "Element Stewardship Abstract
for Phraginites Aitstrailis and Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria L)" are available
from The Nature Conservancy, 1800 North Kent Street, Arlington, VA 22209.
In addition, the Illinois Department of Conservation has produced a
document, entitled "Vegetation Management Guideline, Purple Loosestrife," which
can be obtained by writing to Randy Heidorn, Illinois Department of Conservation,
Region II Office, 110 James Road, Spring Grove, Illinois 60081.

126

Rare SMIes Predators

Resource Impacts

Management to reduce effects of predators on plover and tern productivity
is an important component of rare species recovery efforts on many Massachusetts
beaches. Potential predators of plover and tern eggs or chicks include red foxes,
striped skunks, mink, raccoons, opossums, Norway rats, feral cats, crows, gullsi
grackles, black-crowned night-herons, great-horned owls, northern harriers, and
American kestrels. Populations of many of these species have probably increased as
human use of the coastal zone has increased. Predation on eggs or chicks can
substantially reduce productivity of ground-nesting birds such as plovers and terns.
Predator management to enhance breeding success of plovers and terns should only
be considered if predation has been clearlyidentified as a significant factor limiting
productivity. Predator management should be undertaken only after consultation with
the Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife and, when appropriate, the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, and after appropriate letters of authorization or depredation permits
have been obtained from the Division and the Service.

Recommended Management Measures

� Predators of plovers and terns can often be managed through non-lethal
means. Wire mesh predator enclosures placed around plover and tern nests
have proven effective in deterring many predators and reducing egg losses
(Rimmer and Deblinger, 1990, 1992; Melvin et al. 1992). Predator exclosures
are relatively cost-effective, especially when used around individual plover
nests or small numbers of tern nests, and should be considered as the first
option for predator management. Managers wishing to erect predator
exclosures around tern or plover nests must first obtain a letter of
authorization from the Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife.

� Predator removal through lethal means, such as shooting, trapping, or
poisoning should only be considered as a last resort. Predator removal can be
costly and time-consuming, and is often of questionable effectiveness. Beach
managers considering lethal predator control should first consult with the
Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. For furbearers, which are considered
valuable natural resources, the first attempt at lethal predator control should
be to open the area to trapping during the regulated trapping season.
However, efforts to control predators to reduce impacts to rare, ground-
nesting birds may not be effective unless all individuals are removed.
Continued removal may be possible, but requires a permit from the Division.
Lethal control or trapping and removal of avian predators protected by the
federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (e.g., raptors, gulls, night-herons, grackles)
also requires a permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

127

Beach managers should take all possible steps to remove garbage that
may attract predators to beaches. Trash containers should be placed
at all parking lots and beach access points and around concession
areas, bathhouses, and restrooms. Trash containers should be emptied
frequently enough to prevent them from overflowing. Beach users
should be educated about how their litter may indirectly affect beach-
nesting birds by attracting predators.

References

Melvin, S.M., L.H. MacIvor and C.R. Griffin. 1992. "Predator Exclosures. a
technique to reduce predation on Piping Plover nests. " Wildlife Society Bulletin
20:143-148.

Rimmer, D.W. and R.D. Deblinger. 1990. "77le use of predator exclosures to protect
Piping Plover nests." J. Field Ornithol. 61:217-223.

Rimmer, D.W. and R.D Deblinger. 1992. "Use of fencing to limit terrestfial predator
movements into Least Tem colonies." Colonial Waterbirds. 15(2'):226-229.

128

Other Wildlife Management Issues

Resource impacts

Just as predators affect the reproductive success of piping plovers and least
terns, other species of wildlife have the potential of affecting ecological features of
barrier beaches leading managers to consider developing management programs.
White-tailed deer have become too abundant at various coastal sites in the
northeastern United States due to a lack of predators, no-hunting policies, and mild
winters. Epidemic Lyme disease occurs onlyin areas where populations of white-
tailed deer are dense (Spielman et al. 1985, Lastavica et al. 1989, Wilson and
Deblinger 1993). Lyme disease is caused by the bite of an infected deer tick. Deer
tick abundance is correlated with the presence and abundance of white-tailed deer
(Wilson and Deblinger 1993). In addition, deer have the capability of exceeding
ecological carrying capacity and causing extensive destruction to vegetation, including
American beachgrass (Deblinger et al. in press). Although such destruction has not
been correlated with increased erosion rates, the possibility exists. Moreover, a lack
of understory vegetation could reduce habitat of other species, thereby decreasing
biodiversity (Diamond 1992).
Other species of wildlife that may affect barrier beaches include raccoons
(inhabit buildings, carry rabies ) and muskrats (destroy newly planted beachgrass).

Recommended Management Measures

Hunting or trapping programs should be developed within the existing
framework of seasons and bag limits published in the Mass. Division of
Fisheries and Wildlife Abstracts. In special circumstances, when wildlife
becomes a nuisance to the public health and safety or causes property
damage, the Division should be contacted. Controlled, limited deer hunting
has been shown to reduce deer to acceptable levels while reducing the threat
of Lyme disease (Deblinger et al. 1993).

Beach managers should educate the public about these potential public health
risks and provide the following safety tips: vaccinate cats and dogs for rabies;
do not feed wild animals; do not approach or handle wild animals; secure
food, garbage, and trash; distribute literature and post warning signs about
rabies and Lyme disease.

References

Deblinger, R.D., M.L. Wilson, D.W. Rimmer, and A. Spielman. 1993. "Reduced
abundance of immature deer ticks (Acad: Ixodidae) following incremental

129

removal of deer." J. Medical Entomol. 30:144-150.

Deblinger, R.D., D.W. Rimmer, J.J. Vaske, G. Vecellio, and M.P. Donnelly.
"Ecological and hunter support of a controlled deer hunt in coastal
Massachusetts. " Northeast Wildlife. In press.

Diamond, J. 1992. "Must we shoot deer to save nature?" Natural History Magazine,
American Museum of Natural History, pp. 2-9.

Lastavica, C.C., M.L. Wilson, V.P. Berardi, A. Spielman, and R.D. Deblinger. "Rapid
emergence of a focal epidemic of Lyme disease in coastal Massachusetts."
New England J. Medicien 320:133-137.

Spielman, A., M.L. Wilson, J.E. Levine, and J. Piesman. 1985. "Ecoloff of Isodes
dammini--bome human babesiosis and Lyme disease." Ann. Rev. Entomol.
30:439-460.

Wilson, M.L. and R.D. Deblinger. 1993. 'Vector management to reduce the risk of
Lyme disease. " In Ginsberg, H.S. (ed.), Ecology and Environmental
Management of Lyme Disease. New Brunswick, NJ: Rutgers University Press.

130

Trash

See previous section in this chapter on "Beach Cleaning -- Litter."

Recommended Management Measures

s. It is especially important that trash of any kind not be discarded in remote
barrier beach areas that are typically difficult to manage. Such debris can
create a nuisance among wildlife and result in artificially created dependent
feeding behaviors not supported in the already stressful winter months.

Trash barrels should not be located on the beach itself but at pedestrian
access/egress sites. This will eliminate the need for maintenance vehicles to
travel through dunes and onto the beach and eliminate an attractive
destination for nuisance animals.

0 Trash containers should be tightly secured against racoons, dogs, gulls, and
wind. Trash can attract predators and thus should be removed from the
barrier on a routine basis.

0 Garbage should be contained in order to avert predator and pest species
problems. Managers may consider a "carry in-carry out" policy which
eliminates the need for garbage containers at beach access sites. Weather and
animals can spread trash left unattended in containers. There should be
regular trash removal from beaches at the end of each day during the summer
season. Where there are lifeguards and parking lot attendants at beaches, a
routine "clean sweep" should be made of the beach early each morning by
beach personnel using poled nets prior to intensive visitor use.

Public education should be directed to minimizing trash and can be
highlighted during beach cleanup events. Again, the Massachusetts Coastal
Zone Management Office sponsors such events each September during
"Coastweeks" and encourages additional cleanups in the spring.

131

CHAPTER 6

Public Education and Outreach

One of the most important means of achieving performance standards
pertaining to barrier beach management and for maintaining barrier beaches in
optimum condition is through a well-designed and understandable public education
program. An informed beachgoer is much more likely to abide by proposed
management guidelines if he/she understands the principles involved in the posted
rules and regulations. An educated beach-goer is the best beach-goer.

Unfortunately, education is often the last item on a beach manager's busy
schedule. Creating an effective program takes time, funding, and the personnel
resources that are often tied up in other projects. Writing and producing education
materials, such as flyers, brochures, exhibits, may overburden an already meager park
budget.

In the best of all possible worlds, it would be great to have the resources to
produce individually tailored education materials for each site. But, as this is the real
world, education often requires the adaptation of existing materials. Sadly, a review
of education materials now available for use by beach managers, shows few listings for
materials on barrier beach dynamics or beach management options. But that does not
mean that there is nothing out there, or that something cannot be created in the
future.

The following listing offers the best of the materials now available, a short
description of each, and where to obtain them. Materials include:

e Brochures
* Curricular Materials
9 Signs and Exhibits
e Videos/Slide Shows
e Other Materials -- books, booklets, maps, reports

One additional method by which a beach manager may wish to get a message
out to the public is to enlist the assistance of the local media. Local newspapers and
radio stations may be interested in periodic reports on beach management issues.
Talk to the paper's editor or the station manager about a continuing feature (the
beach manager or a designee may be asked to write the copy and submit it to the
paper/station for editing).

133

Reference Materials

BROCHURES

Brochures are an ideal way of quickly explaining a complicated issue to a large
population. If the material needed is not on this list, try creating an original
publication. For ease of reading and comprehension, try to keep the amount of copy
down; illustrate with drawings, photos, or graphics where appropriate; and leave
enough white space to create high readability -- too much copy will discourage many
readers. Keep the material lively, with lots of active verbs, and make the message a
positive one -- lots of "do's" rather than "do not's." A wealth of information can be
contained on one 8-1/2"xll" paper (2 sides, three columns per side, two folds,
photocopied).

The "Plymouth Long Beach Information Booklet" is an excellent example of a locally-
produced beach information document. The publication, produced on 8-1/2 x 11"
paper and folded, 16 pages total, covers general rules and regulations, town by-laws,
summary of off-road vehicleM]dlife mangement plan, a map, description of permitted
activities, driving and safety tips, flora and fauna, other beach facts, and a beach
violation report form.

The Beach, 77te Dunes And You; Alabama Department of Environmental Management,
2204 Perimiter Road, Mobile, AL 36615. Also available in photocopy from Mass.
Coastal Zone Management, 100 Cambridge St. Boston, MA 02202
Description: Describes why dunes are important, how to build dunes, how to
save dunes.

Beachcombers Guide to the North Atlantic Seashore; Massachusetts Audubon Society,
Lincoln, MA 01773. 1993.
Description: Plastic foldout brochure with full color illustrations of plant and
animals that live in tide pools and on the beach. Explains in simple terms
how beaches work and outlines a typical marine food web. Excellent field
guide for a wet environment.

77ze Care and Feeding of Sand Dunes; by Stephen Gabriel, Coastal Management
Specialist, City of Ocean City (1980). Copies available through Mass. Coastal Zone
Management Office.
Description: Describes the importance of dunes and how to go about
developing a dune stabilization program, including snow fencing and dune
grass planting.

134

Oversand Vehicles, Cape Cod National Seashore, National Park Service, Department
16 of the Interior, South Wellfleet, MA 02663; 508-487-3698.
Description: Brochure includes oversand vehicle route map, how to obtain
permits, required equipment, tire standards, beach driving tips, and
regulations.

Plymouth Long Beach Information Booklet, Plymouth Park Division, 508-830-4095.
Description: Excellent example of a locally-produced document that provides
user information pertaining to regulations and permitted activities. Insert
includes tide calendar (high and low tides, time and height) for May-
September season.

77te Roseate Tem; U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, New
England Field Office, 400 Ralph Pill Marketplace, 22 Bridge St. Concord, NH 03301.
October 1991
Description: Endangered Species Fact Sheet describes the bird, nesting habits,
why Roseate Terns are so rare, the Endangered Species Act, why should we
be concerned, and what you can do to help. Basic information.

Sandy Neck Beach Regulations, Town of Barnstable Natural Resource Department,
508-790-6272.
Description: General information brochure details off-road vehicle driving
tips, motor vehicle regulations, hunting regulations, fishing and shellfishing
regulations, horse regulations, general policy, and steps for obtaining permits.

Sharing the Beach with Least Tems, U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and
Wildlife Service, One Gateway Center, Newton Corner, Mass. 02158. no date
Description: Describes the bird, it's range, threats, nesting and chick rearing,
protection, and things you can do. Basic information.

Tems: 7heir Ecology and Consemation; Massachusetts Audubon Society, Lincoln, MA
01773. 1988.
Description: Describes the family of birds closely related to gulls, their
current status, and life cycle. Ways to help protect terns are listed.

TAat's All this About Critical Habitat for Piping Plovers, U.S. Department of the
Interior, Fish and Wildlife Scrvice, 22 Bridge St. Concord, NH 03301-4901 (603)225-
1411.1989.
Description: Describes the bird, the status, and steps needed to protect
critical habitat. Very thorough.

You Can Help Protect the Piping Plover; U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and
Wildlife Service, One Gateway Center, Newton Corner, Mass. 02158; no date.
Description: Describes the bird, it's range, breeding and feeding habits,
threats, and things you can do. An abridged version of #1 above.

135

CURRICULAR MATERIALS

Educational programs, whether offered in visitor centers, on the beach with park
naturalists, or through schools, are important means of spreading the word about
.rest in setting up or supplementing
proper barrier beach management. If there is inte
primary/secondary education programs, there are a variety of materials available for
your use.

The New England Aquarium has a Teacher Resource Center that is open by
appointment for teachers and other educators (beach managers or park interpreters).
Videos, filmstrips, slide shows, "The Coast Kit," as well as books, magazines and
curricula can either be borrowed (usually free of charge) or copied (copies are $0.10
each). There is a wealth of information stored here. Contact Joel Rubin at 617-973-
6590 for more information.

Other materials that may prove useful in setting up an education program for students
(as well as their parents and other adults) include:

The Atlantic Coast. Piping Plover Lesson Plans. Produced by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service. Available from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, New England Field
Offices, 400 Ralph Pill Marketplace, 22 Bridge Street, Unit #1, Concord, NH 03301-
4901; 40 pages, 20 slides/free.
Description: This package includes background information, slides, lesson
plans, a simulation game, and worksheets intended for grades 5-7. Included
in the package are two brochures -- "Why Save Endangered Species?" and
"You Can Help Protect the Piping Plover" and the poster "Atlantic Naturalist:
The Piping Plover."

Atlantic Naturalist. 7he Piping Plover (poster). Produced by the Quebec Labrador
Foundation/Atlantic Center for the Environment, 1988. Available from the Atlantic
Center for the Environment, 39 South Main Street, Ipswich, MA 01938, 508-356-0038
or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, New England Field Offices, 400 Ralph Pill
Marketplace, 22 Bridge Street, Unit #1, Concord, NH 03301-4901.
Description: Poster illustrates the habitat and problems facing the piping
plover with tips on what individuals can do to protect this endangered species.

Beaches, Dunes and Bartier Islands. Habitat Pac. Produced by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service. Available from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of
Refuges, Educational Outreach Program, 300 Westgate Center Drive, Hadley, MA
01035, 413-253-8515; 30 pages/free.
Description: The Habitat Pac includes background information, posters,
student pages, and three activities. The materials are designed for use with
students in grades 4-7.

136

Charting Our Course - Educator Ac tivity Book Produced by Mass. Coastal Zone
Management and the Mass. Marine Educators with funding from the Mass.
Environmental Trust. Available from Mass. Coastal Zone Management, 100
Cambridge St. Boston, MA 02202, 617-727-9530; 83 pages/free.
Description: An excellent activity guide for teachers of grades 4-12 on the
Gulf of Maine and the other coastal waters of Massachusetts. Five chapters
of information divided into background information, references and several
activities. Access to the coast is not a requirement for these activities, and
many of the experiments and projects can be done for minimal cost and with
readily available materials.

Erosion: The Good & Bad. Resource Lesson Package from Cape Cod National
Seashore, National Environmental Education Development Program, Headquarters,
Marconi Site, South Wellfleet, MA 02663; 508-349-3785; 6 pages/free.
Description: Lesson Plan, to be used in conjunction with a visit to the Cape
Cod National Seashore and viewing of "Sands of Time" video, contains fact
sheets on "Beaches and Breaches," "Erosion ... The Good and Bad of It," and
"The Eroding Cape Cod Landscape and Dune Stabilization," as well as list of
possible field trip and classroom activities.

Illustrated Field Guides to Eastern Shore Manne Environments. Written by Barbara
Waters and illustrated by Carole Eldridge. 5 posters/free. Copies available from
Mass. Coastal Zone Management Office or Barnstable County Cooperative Extension
Office.
Description: These field guides cover: 1) Sandy Shore and Dunes; 2) Salt
Marshes; 3) Rocky Shore and Wooden Structures; 4) Salt Ponds; and 5) Tidal
Flats. Each has a drawing on one side and descriptive material about the
marine life on the reverse side. Appropriate for all elementary and secondary
school students.

Save Our Seas: A Cutficulum for Kndergarten Through the Twelfth Grade. Center
for Marine Conservation and California Coastal Commission; 106 pages/free. Copies
available through Mass. Coastal Zone Management Office.
Description: This compendium of activities, divided into four age groupings
(K-3, 4-6, 7-8, and 9-12), covers the issues of overpackaging, recycling, and the
hazards of marine debris. The curriculum can be combined with a class/school
beach cleanup or used alone.

Turning the Tide on Trash: A Learning Guide on Marine Debris. U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency; 80 pages/free. Copies available from U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency or Mass. Coastal Zone Management Office.
Description: This book provides background information on the hazards of
marine debris and includes a variety of activities that develop critical thinking
skills in various content areas. Includes a wall poster -- "Save Our Seas: Help
Stop Marine Debris!" Materials are designed for use in grades 3-6.

137

This area is a natural breeding ground for Terns and Plovers

THESE RARE BIRDS,
THEIR NESTS AND EGGS
ARE. PROT@ECTED
UNDER MASSACHUSETTS AND FEDERAL LAWS
Persons May Be Arrested and Fined for Killing,
Harassing or in Any Way Disturbing Birds Nesting
in This Area (MGL c. 131 � 5,74 and Title 50 CFR).
Divisionof
Fishenes &Wildlife

1tL=MTK>4 BY Am zcnFc)os. R-a%*. CT 0"39 (315)4"16

Figure 17. Sample of warning sign for nesting area.

138
RESTRICTED AREA

SIGNS AND EXHIBrTS

For quick information and warnings, on-location signage is the best means of
informing the beach-going public. Ile signs must be quickly readable with a short,
pointed message. People loaded with beach gear and caring for children do not have
time to read anything longer than a few sentences. Signs must also fit into the
landscape without being so inconspicuous that they are ignored. Try to avoid visual
pollution (garish colors, overpowering designs), but attract attention with appropriate
use of color and careful attention to sign placement (high visibility, accessibility,
readability). All signs must be maintained for readability and quickly replaced if lost,
stolen or damaged.

The Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management Office is working with the
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Management to develop a generic "sand
dunes/beach grass" information sign to be installed at state beaches within the next
year. The template will be available at no charge to any beach managers wishing to
install such a sign at their beaches.

Other materials include:

Sign: "Restricted Area... This area is a natural breeding ground for Terns and
Plovers. " Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, Field Headquarters,
Westboro, MA 01581.
Description: 8 1/2 x 11" sign to be posted on active breeding areas. Cites
Mass. General Laws Chapter 131 and 50 Code of Federal Regulations.
Produced by Voss Signs, Manlius, NY 13104-0553, 315-682-6418. [See sample
sign in this chapter.]

Sign: "Seal pups rest on shore. Do not disturb theml It's the law." New England
Aquarium, Marine Mammal Rescue Program, Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110-
3399, 617-973-5200.
Description: 8-1/2 x 11" sign to be posted on active seal pupping areas.
Available from the New England Aquarium. [See sample sign in this chapter.]

139

Seal pups rest on shore
Do not disturb them 1
It's the law.

Report animals in distress to
LOCAL POLICE'

or
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION

or
NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS

Figure 18. Sample of warning sign for seal pupping area.

140

VIDEOS/SUDE SHOWS

The Mass. Coastal Zone Managment Office has an extensive library of coastal related
educational video materials; call (617)727-9530 for more information. In a
cooperative effort, the Mass. Coastal Zone Management Office and the Woods Hole
Oceanographic Institution's Sea Grant Office have instituted a 13-week video project
for cable stations (13 weeks of 1/2-hour programs on various coastal issues, including
barrier beachmanagement) entitled "Shorewatch." The following shows may be of
particular interest to barrier beach managers.

In addition, the management at two Massachusetts beaches. (Race Point,
Provincelands, Cape Cod National Seashore and Sandy Neck in Barnstable) require
that individuals purchasing off-road vehicle permits view a short slide show pertaining
to beach driving safety and environmental care. Contact either of these programs for
more information about designing a similar type of program

Atnedca's Vanishing Coastlines; 19 minutes, color, VHS format. Available on loan
from Mass. Coastal Zone Management Office.
Description: Produced by the National Committee on Property Insurance and
narrated by famed coastal geologist Dr. Orrin Pilkey, this video presents an
interesting look at the issue of coastal erosion.

Me Beaches are Moving. 77ze Drowning of Amelica's Shoreline ; 60 minutes, color,
VHS format. Available from Environmental Media, 1-800-ENV-EDUC (1-800-368-
3382); $29.95. ISBN 1-56791-069-6. Order No. BM101.
Description: Hosted by Dr. Orrin Pilkey, this hour-long show illustrates beach
evolution using contemporary and historical film, video, and state-of-the-art
animation. Companion piece to book of the same name.

Cape Cod: The Sands of 7-inte; 15 minutes, color, VHS format. Available through the
Cape Cod National Seashore, Eastern National Park and Monument Association.
Cost is $19.95.
Description: This concise and well-illustrated video explains the formation
and geological history (and future) of Cape Cod, with particular reference to
its important coastal and barrier beaches (tape also includes three other short
programs).

Fabulous Wetlands; 7 minutes, color, VHS format. Available on loan from Mass.
Coastal Zone Management Office.
Description: A humorous but informative look at the function and
importance of wetlands to the ecosystem. Produced by the State of
Washington, Department of Ecology.

Plight of the Plover; 6 minutes, color, VHS format. Available through the U.S.
Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service or the Mass. Coastal Zone
Management Office/Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Sea Grant Office

141

Shorewatch Program.
Description: The conflict of wildlife habitat vs. recreational use is never more
evident than in the efforts to protect the piping plover. This program points
up the problems facing the survival of this small but important shorebird
species.

Povait of a Coast; 30 min utes, color, VHS format. Available on loan from Mass.
Coastal Zone Management Office.
Description: This informative half-hour program looks at a wide range of
coastal beach processes, including sediment transport, dune building,
stabilization methods, and effects of development on shorelines. Scenes from
the Blizzard of '78 are included.

Shifting Sands, 28 minutes, color, VHS format. Available on loan from the New
England Aquarium.
Description: Produced by the Florida Institute of Oceanography and a
Florida television station, this show looks at beach processes, particularly on
the barrier beaches of the State of Florida.

Sea Beaches - Their Formation- and Erosion; Slide show with script. Available on
loan from the New England Aquarium.
Description: This 24-slide show was produced by Educational Images in 1979
and has a discussion on the function and dynamics of barrier beaches.
Although some of the material is dated (discussion of pre-Miami dune
nourishment), there are still some interesting images and discussion.

142

OTHER MATERLALS

At the Sea's Edge., An introduction to coastal oceanography for the amateur naturalist.
Fox, William T. New York: Prentice Hall Press (1983).
Description: Chapter on "Barrier Islands and Spits" contains an excellent
review of various theories of barrier beach formation and migration.

Barrier Beach Inventory Project. (1982) Mass. Coastal Zone Management, 100
Cambridge St. Boston, MA 02202. 57 maps. Individual maps available from
Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management Office.
Description: Geologic field research and mapping compiled and produced
under a contract with The Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies, 1982. All
beaches in the Commonwealth are listed and coded. A good reference tool.

Barrier island Handbook. Leatherman, S.P. College Park, MD: University of
Maryland Coastal Publications Series (1988).
Description: A nontechnical explanation of barrier island environments, their
evolution, and the impact of recreation and construction on them.

The Beaches are Moving. The drowning of America's shorefine. Kaufman, Wallace and
Orrin Pilkey. Chapel Hill, NC: Duke University Press (1983, 1992). $12.95.
Available from Environmental Media, P.O. Box 1016, Chapel Hill, NC 27514; 1-800-
ENV-EDUC (1-800-368-3382). ISBN 0-8223-0574-7. Order No. BM102.
Description: 11is 355-page book describes how shorelines work and how, left
to their own devices, they protect and maintain themselves. A companion
piece to the video of the same name.

Coastal Rescue: Preserving Our Seashores. Miller, Christina G. and Louise A. Berry.
New York: Atheneum: (1989). ISBN 0-689-31288-1.
Description: This children's book (grades 5-9) examines different types of
coasts, how they are shaped by nature, how the, development of coasts has
destroyed plant and animal life, beaches, and marshes, and ways to use the
coasts' valuable resources and still preserve them.

Coastal Waterbird Newsletter. Scott Hecker, Editor. Massachusetts Audubon Society,
Lincoln, MA 01773.
Description: This newsletter describes nesting sites statewide and provides
news items on coastal waterbirds and the Audubon Society's Coastal
Waterbird Program.

Final Report. An Ecological Evaluation of Human Impacts on the Wasque Reservation
and Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge, Edgartown, M,4; Phase 111-1989. Lars H. Carlson
and Paul J. Godfrey, Department of Botany, UMASS/Amberst, Amherst, MA 01003
March 19,1990.
Description: Provides good information on how to manage a site-specific
barrier beach that is heavily used by a variety of visitors for many purposes.

143

0 1

Land's Edge. A natural history of banier beaches ftom Maine to North Carolina.
Hoel, Michael L Newbury, MA: The Little Book Publishing Company (1986). 142
pages/$6.95. Available at Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge headquarters, Chatham.
ISBNO-9616080-0-5.
Description: Provides a short history of barrier beaches, a description of
barrier dynamics, plants and ecosystems, predators and prey.

Restless Ribbons of Sand- Atlantic & Gulf Coastal Barriers. Wells, John T. and
Charles H. Peterson. U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service. 20
pages/frec. Available from the Cape Cod National Seashore headquarters.
Description: Excellent booklet describing attributes of barrier beaches from
Maine to south Texas -- a protective fringe along 2,700 miles of our nation's
shoreline.

Sanctuary. ne Journal of the Massachusetts Audubon Society. Vol. 31, No. 6,
July/August 1992 -- "On The Beach." Massachusetts Audubon Society, Lincoln, MA
01773.
Description: This issue contains articles on piping plovers, Plymouth Beach,
and the Coastal Waterbird Program.

Selection and Maintenance of Plant Matefials for Coastal Landscapes. Karl Rask,
Cooperative Extension/University of Massachusetts and Soil Conservation Service/U.S.
Department of Agriculture, Issues in Water Quality Series, June 1990. Available from
Barnstable County Extension Service; copies also available from Mass. Coastal Zone
Management.
Description: Provides a concise review of the basic principles of coastal
landscaping including a list of plants for various settings.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service publications:
Atlantic Coast Piping Plover Recovery Plan. 1988. U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service, Hadley, MA- 74p.
Roseate Tem Recovery Plan -- Northeast Population. 1989. U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, Hadley, MA. 86p.
Northeastern 77ger Beetle Recovery Plan. 1993. U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service, Hadley, MA. 46p.

With Help of Fiiends, the Plover's Coming Back Scott Allen, The Boston Globe,
August 24, 1992, p.29.
Description: This newspaper article explores the decline of this species and
what appears to be a comeback for the'northeast population.

144

I
I
I APPENDIX A
I Barrier Beaches in Massachusefts
I
I
I
10
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
p 145
I

Me Y6wl
COASTAL ZONE A.416, A&adwet6 022672
MANAGEMENT

Barrier Beach Invento!y Prole
(State Designated Barrier Beaches)
Maps available from the Mass. Coastal Zone Management Office.

Ma
UNIT CODE UNITS INCLUDED

2 Nb-1 Sb-1 Salisbury Beach
Np-1 Plum Island
Nb-1 Plum Island
RI-1 Plum Island

4 Is-2 RI-1 Plum Island
Is-1 Plum Island
Is-2 Plum Island Sandy Point
Is-3 Clark Pond
Is-4 Little Neck
Is-5 Cranes Beach
Is-6 Cranes Beach/Castle Beach

5 Gt-9 Is-6 Cranes Beach
Gt-1 Castle Beach/Castle Neck
Gt-2 Two Penny Loaf
Gt-3 Coffins Beach
Gt-4 Wingaersheek Beach
Gt-6 Good Harbor Beach
Gt-7 Brace Cove
Gt-8 Easter Point
Gt-9 Old House Cove
Mc-1 Gray Beach
Mc-2 Lily Pond
Mc-3 Black Beach
MC-4 White Beach

6 Rp-4 Rp-1 Loblolly Cove
Rp-2 Pebble Beach
Rp-3 Cape Hedge Beach
Rp-4 Long Beach
Rp-5 Long Beach South/Briar Neck
Rp-6 Good Harbor Beach

8 Bv-1 Bv-1 Patch Beach

146

1
16 9 Mb-1 Mb-1 Devereux Beach
10 Nh-3 Sp-1 Palmer Pond/Phillips Beach
Nh-1 Nahant Beach
Nh-2 Little Nahant Beach
Nh-3 Pond Beach
Rv-1 Revere Beach
Rv-2 Short Beach
Wn-1 Short Beach

12 Bt-1 1 Bt-6 Thompson Island
Bt-7 Thompson Island Pond
Bt-8 Thompson Island-NW Middle Barrier
Bt-9 Thompson Island-SW Middle Barrier
BVIO Thompson Island South Spit
Bt-1 1 Thompson Island-SE
Oc-1 Squantum Marina Spit
Qc-2 Wollaston Beach-East

13 Hi-3 Wn-2 Yirrell Beach
Bt-1 Great Brewster Island
Bt-2 Gallops Island
Bt-3 Rainsford Island
Bt-4 Bass Point
Bt-5 West Head Beach
Bt-6 Thompson Island
HI-1 Peddocks Island-West Head Beach
HI-2 Peddocks Island-Prince Head Beach
HI-3 Peddocks Island-Tombolo
HI-4 Telegraph Hill-Allerton Hill Tombolo
HI-5 Hog Island Spit
HI-6 Nantasket Beach
Qc-2 Wollaston Beach-East
Oc-3 Adams Shore
Qc-4 Sea St.
Qc-5 Rock Island
Oc-6 Gull Point
Hn-1 Foley Beach Road
Hn-2 Bumkin Island West Spit
Hn-3 Worlds End
Wm-1 Lower Neck Cove

14 Ct-2 HI-6 Nantasket Beach
HIJ Atlantic Avenue Beach
HI-8 Crescent Beach
HI-9 Black Rock Beach
Ct-1 Black Rock Beach
Ct-2 Sandy Beach
St-2 The Glades

16 St-4 St-1 Bassing Beach

147

St-2 The Glades
St-3 Minot Beach
St-4 Mann Hill Beach & Egypt Beach

17 St-10 St-4 Mann Hill Beach/Egypt Beach
St-5 Sand Hills
St-6 Cedar Point Tombolo
St-7 Second Cliffs Barrier
St-8 Peggotty Beach
St-9 N. Spit, N. River Inlet
St-10 Fourth Cliff Inlet Spit
St-1 1 Humarock Beach
Mf-1 Rexhame Beach

18 Db-1 Mf-1 Rexhame Beach
Mf-2 Sunrise Beach
Mf-3 Brant Rock
Mf-4 Green Harbor Point
Mf-5 Blackmans Point
Mf-6 Green Harbor South Spit
Db-1 Duxbury Beach
Pm-1 Plum Hills
Pm-2 Saquish Beach

19 Pm-6 Pm-2 Saquish Beach
Pm-3 Saquish Beach
Pm-4 Plymouth Beach
Pm-5 Cordage Beach
Pm-6 Goose Point Spit

20 Pm-8 Pm-4 Plymouth Beach
Pm-7 White Horse Beach
Pm-8 Manomet Heights Barrier

21 Wh-1 Wh-1 Red Brook

22 Bo-29 Pm-9 Ship Pond
Pm-10 Center Hill Pond
Pm-1 1 Black Pond
Pm-12 Ellisville Harbor Barrier
Bo-29 Sagamore Beach
Sd-5 Sagamore Beach

26 Ss-2 SS-1
Ss-2 Ocean Grove Beach
Sm-1 Brayton Point Beach

28 Fh-1 5 Fh-1 4 - Fh-1 6 Pope Beach

29 Mp-18 Mr-1 1 Ram Island 2

148

Mr-12 Little Neck
Mr-13 Converse Point
Mr-14 Aucoot Cove
Mp-1 Hiller Cove
Mp-2 Peases Point/Point Connett
Mp-3 Pine Island East Tombolo
Mp-4 Strawberry Point Barrier
Mp-5 Pine Island West Barrier Spit
Mp-6 Crescent Beach
Mp-7 Crescent Beach
Mp-8 Ned Point
Mp-9 Mattapoisett Village/Water St. Spit
Mp-10 Eel Pond Barrier
Mp-11 Sedge Island Spit
Mp-12 Marsch Nerve Road Spit
Mp-13 Shore View Road Spit
Mp-14 Shell Beach North
Mp-15 Shell Beach Middle
Mp-16 Shell Beach South
Mp-17 Bay View Avenue North
Mp-18 Grand View Beach - Barrier
Mp-19 Antassawarnock East Spit
Mp-20 Antassawarnock West Spit
Mp-21 Antassawarnock Brant 1. Cove
Mp-22 Mattapoisett Neck
Mp-23 Brant Island West Barrier Spit
Mp-24 Bryant Beach
Mp-26 Shaws Cove
Fh-1 Shaws Cove West

30 Mr-5 Mr-1 Wings Cove #1
Mr-2 Wings Cove #2
Mr-3 Wings Cove #3
Mr-4 Piney Point
Mr-5 Sedge Cove
Mr-6 Kittanset Golf Club
Mr-7 Point Road Beach
Mr-8 Planting Island Causeway
Mr-9 Planting Island Spit
Mr-10 Ram Island 1
Mr-1 1 Ram Island 2
Wh-2 Peters Neck
Wh-3 Jacobs Neck East
Wh-4 Pleasant Harbor, Inner Barrier
Wh-5 Pleasant Harbor, Southeast
Wh-6 Pleasant Harbor, Bay St.
Wh-7 Onset Island West
Wh-8 Onset Island East
Wh-9 Onset Bay
Wh-10 Shell Point
Wh-1 1 Hog Neck Tombolo

149

Wh-12 Bass Cove, East Marsh
Wh-13 Bass Cove Middle Salt Marsh
Wh-14 Bass Cove West Salt Marsh
Wh-15 Widows Cove
Wh-16 Widows Cove South
Wh-1 7'Seminary Barrier
Wh-18 Cedar Point North
Wh-19 Cedar Point South
Wh-20 Stony Point West
Wh-21 Little Harbor Beach Crown Beach)
Wh-22 Bourne Cove Barrier Spit
Wh-23 Beach Rocks
Wh-24 Great Neck SW Coast West
Wh-25 Beach Point
Wh-26 Wareham River
Wh-27 Wareham River
Wh-28 Wareham Small Spit
Wh-29 Barneys Point
Wh-30 Swifts Neck (Angelo Road)
Wh-31 Swifts Neck, E & W Spits
Wh-32 Swifts Beach West
Wh-33 Marks Cove
Wh-34 Cromeset Neck West
Wh-35 Nobska Point Spit
Wh-36 Weweantic River
Bo-4 Tobeys Island
Bo-12 Wings Neck #1
Bo-13 Wings Neck #2
Bo-14 Wings Cove
Bo-15 Pocasset Harbor
Bo-16 Bassets Island
Bo-17 Barlows Landing
Bo-18 Red Brook Harbor
Bo-19 Patuisset
Bo-23 Long Point
Bo-24 Red Brook Harbor
Bo-25 Eustis Beach
Bo-26 The Anchorage
Bo-27 Meganseit Harbor
Fm-37 Sandy Beach
Fm-38 Crow Point/Sandy Beach
Fm-39 Silver Beach
Fm-40 Sandy Beach
Fm-41 Sandy Beach
Fm-42 Sandy Beach
Fm-43 Sandy Beach

31 Wp-3 Wp-1 Horseneck Beach
Wp-2 Horseneck Beach
Wp-3 Acoxet Barrier Beach
Wp-4 Cocheast Pond Bay

150

Wp-5 Richmond Pond
Wp-6 Quick Sand Point
Dm-13 Little Beach

32 DM-6 Dm-1 Padanaram Marsh Barrier
Dm-2 Smith Neck
Dm-3 Bare Kneed Rocks
Dm-4 Round Hill
Dm-5 Salters Point
Dm-6 Cow Yard/East
Dm-7 Cow Yard/Middle
Dm-8 Cow Yard/West
Dm-9 Plummer Memorial Bridge South Spit
Dm-10 Demarest-l-loyd
Dm-1 1 Slocum Neck
Dm-12 Slocum Neck/South
Dm-13 Little Beach

33 Fh-23 Fh-2 Sconticut Neck
Fh-3 Summit Drive
FhA Scpmtocft Neck
Fh-5 Jeruselum Road
Fh-6 Round Island Beach
Fh-7 W. Island Road
Fh-8 Nelson Beach
Fh-9 Sconticut Neck West Side
Fh-10 Sconticut Neck West Side
Fh-1 1 Shore Side Drive
Fh-12 Smugglers Road Barrier
Fh-13 Briarcliff Road Barrier
Fh-17 North Point Barrier
Fh-18 North Point South
Fh-19 West Island
Fh-20 West Island
Fh-21 West Island
Fh-22 West Island
Fh-23 West Island
Mp-20 Antassawamock West Spit
Mp-25 Ocean View Drive

34 Gn-67 Fm-22 Falmouth Beach
Fm-23 Oyster Pond
Fm-24 Quissett Beach
Fm-25 Noboska Beach
Fm-26 Penzance Point Causeway
Fm-27 Flume Pond
Fm-28 Gunning Point
Fm-29 Little Sippewisset Barrier Spit
Fm-30 Saconesset Hills Barrier Spit
Fm-31 Black Beach
Fm-32 Chappaquoit Beach

151

Fm-33 Little Island Road
Fm-34 Nemasket Road
Fm-35 Falmouth Cliffs Beach
Fm-36 Old Silver Beach
Gn-1 Mink Point West
Gn-2 Sheep Pen Harbor/North
Gn-3 Sheep Pen Harbor South
Gn-4 Nonamesset Island North
Gn-5 Nonamesset Island Middle Pond
Gn-6 Nonamesset Island South Pond
Gn-7 Monohansett Island Pond
Gn-8 Monohansett Island South Spit
Gn-58 North Shore Road
Gn-59 North Shore Road Point
Gn-61 North Shore Road East
Gn-62 Naushon Island/Northwest #1
Gn-63 Naushon Island/Northwest #3
Gn-64 Naushon Island/North
Gn-65 Northwest Gutter West
Gn-66 Northwest Gutter East
Gn-67 Uncatena Island North #1
Gn-68 Uncatena Island North #2
Gn-69 Uncatena Island North #3
Gn-70 Jimmy Point
Gn-71 Uncatena Island/Southeast
Gn-72 Bull Island
Gn-73 Nonamesset Island Inner Harbor
Gn-74 Nonamesset Island North #1
Gn-75 Nonamesset Island North #2

35 Fm-14 Fm-1 Washburn Island
Fm-2 Meadow Neck
Fm-3 Squta Spit Quashnet
Fm-4 Quahnet North Spit
Fm-5 Caleb Pond
Fm-6 Whistlers Way
Fm-7 Washburn Island Northeast
Fm-8 Washburn Island East Salt Pond Spit
Fm-9 Washburn Island East Second Barrier
Fm-10 Washburn Island West Spit
Fm-1 I Washburn Is/Eel Pond Spit
Fm-12 Eel Pond Inlet West Spit
Fm-13 Bournes Pond Barrier
Fm-14 Green Pond
Fm-15 Great Pond
Fm-16 Mara Vista Spit
Fm-1 7 Great Bay Avenue Marsh Barrier
Fm-18 Little Pond
Fm-19 Falmouth Inner Harbor East Spit
Fm-20 Palmer Pond Barrier

152

Fm-21 Fresh River
Ms-5 South Cape Beach
Ms-6 Seconsett Island?

36 Bo-20 Bo-2 Rocky Point Barrier Spit
Bo-3 Toby's Island #1 Complex Barrier
Bo-4 Toby's Island #2
Bo-5 Toby's Island #3
Bo-6 Toby's Island #4
Bo-7 Toby's Island #5
Bo-8 Tobys Island #6
Bo-9 Bennett's Neck #1 Barrier Spit
Bo-10 Bennett's Neck #2 Barrier Spit
Bo-1 I Bennett's Neck #3 Barrier Spit
Bo-20 Hen Cove
Bo-21 Red Brook Harbor #1
Bo-22 Red Brook Harbor #2
Bo-28 Squeteague Harbor #2
Fm-44 Squeteague Harbor Barrier Beach

37 Sd-3 Sd-1 Sandy Neck Beach
Sd-2 Scorton Shores
Sd-3 East Sandwich Beach/Springhill Beach
SdA Town Neck Beach

38 Ba-23 Ba-12 Shallow Fresh March Barrier
Ba-13 Eel River
Ba-1 4 West Bay East Spitt
Ba-15 Dead Neck Beach
Ba-16 Wianno Head North Spit
Ba-1 7 Town Landing Spit
Ba-18 Handy Point Spit
Ba-19 Tims Cove
Ba-20 Cotult Bay
Ba-21 Bluff Point
Ba-22 Rushy Marsh Pond North Barrier
Ba-23 Rushy Marsh Pond South Barrier
Ba-24 Meadow Point
Ms-1 Popponesset Beach
Ms-2 Popponesset Island, Spit
Ms-3 Deans Pond
Ms-4 Flat Pond

39 Ba-7 Ba-1 Kalmus Park Beach
Ba-2 Ocean Street Beach
Ba-3 Hawes Avenue
Ba-4 Breakwater Shores
Ba-5 Keyes Memorial Beach
Ba-6 Squaw Island East Bay Barrier
Ba-7 Squaw Island West Spit
Ba-8 W. Hyannisport Spit

153

Ba-9 Cralgville Beach/Long Beach
Ba-10 Dowses Beach
Ba-1 1 Phinneys Bay
Ba-25 Harbor Point Spit
Ba-26 Bone Hill Barrier
Ba-27 Matthias Lane Spit
Ba-28 Calves Pasture Point Spit
Ba-29 Sandy Neck
Ym-5 Great Island Barrier
Ym-6 Smith's Point Spit
Ym-7 Uncle Robert's Cove Spit
Ym-8 Pine Island South Spit
Ym-9 Mill Creek
Yrn-10 Grays Beach
Ym-1 I Hyannis Park/Algonquin Street
Ym-12 Hyannis Park/Baxter Avenue

4G Dn-3 Dn-1 Swan Pond River East Spit
Dn-2 Swan Pond River West Spit
Dn-3 Bowsprit Lane
Dn-4 West Dennis Beach (Davis Beach)
Dn-5 Quivett Creek West Spit
Dn-6 Coles Pond
Dn-7 QuIvett Neck
Dn-8 Bridge Street Barrier
Dn-9 Sesult Neck
Dn-1O Cape Cod Bay
Dn-1 1 Corporation Beach

40b Ym-4 Ym-1 Davis Beach
Ym-2 Crowell Pond Beach
Ym-3 Parker River East Spitf
Ym-4 Sea Gull Beach
Ym-5 Great Island Beach
Ym-10 Gray's Beach
Dn-12 Chapin Memorial Beach

41 Hw-5 Hw-1 Red River Beach
Hw-2 Saquatucket Harbor East Spit
Hw-3 Wychmere Harbor East Spit
Hw-4 Allen Habor East Spit
Hw-5 Herring River East Spit
Cm-17 Cockle Cove - Bucks Creek Barrier
Cm-18 Mill Creek Spit
Cm-19 Forrest Beach
Cm-20 Red River East Spit
Dn-5 Quivett Creek West Spit
Bt-1 Nanskaket East Spit
Bt-2 Cape Cod Bay
Bt-3 Paine Creek Beach
Bt-4 Wings Island Barrier

154

Cm-2 Monomoy Beach
42 Cm-2 Cm-1.Nauset, Beach
Cm-2 Monomy Beach
Cm-3 Strong island East East Spit
43 Cm-15 Cm-4 Strong Island North Barrier
Cm-5 Strong island West
Cm-6 FOX Hill
Cm-7. Foreside Harbour Spit
Cm-8 Sedge Lane Beach
Cm-9 Shell Drive
Cm-10 Kendrick Road Barrier
Cm-11 Salt March Way Barrier
Cm-12 Old Harbor Barrier
Cm-13 Tern Island
Cm-14 Morris island Chatham Habor Spit
Cm-15 Stage Harbour East Spit
Cm-16 Harding Beach
Cm-17 Nauset Beach
Ol-7 Nauset Beach
ol-12 Hog island
ol-13 The Horseshoe spit
ol-14 Davis goad Barrier Spit
ol-15 Quanset Road/northeast
ol-16 Quanset Road/ Cranberry Bog
ol-17 Quanset Pond

ol-1 Little Namskaket Creek East Spit
ol-2 Skakett Beach /South
01-9 ol-3 Namskaket Beach
44 ol-4 Namskaket West Spit
ol-5 Nauset Harbour South Spit
ol-6 Orleans Beach
ol-7 Nauset Beach/North
ol-8 Cliff Road
ol-9 Old Field Point
ol-10 Sampson Island North Barrier
ol-11 Sampson Island South Barrier
Eh-1 Sunken Meadow Spit
Eh-2 First Encounter Beach
Eh-3 Boat Meadow Marsh Barrier
Eh-4 Bridge Roaad
Eh-5 Rock Harbor North Split
Eh-6 Coast Guard Beach
Eh-7 Nauset Harbor /South
Bt-1 Namskaket East Spit

Wf-1 Duck Harbor Beach
Wf-2 The Gut
Wf-3 Great Island/ Great Beach Hill Bay
Wf-4 Jeremy Point Barrier Spit
Wf-5 Great Beach Hill South Harbor Spit

45 Wf-18

155

Wf-6 Great Beach Hill North Harobr Spit
Wf-7 Great Island South Harbor Spit
Wf-8 Great Island East Spit
Wf-9 West Mayo Beach.
Wf-10 Chatham Cove Spit
Wf-11 Indian Nock Tidal Inlet Barriers
Wf-12 Field Point
Wf-13 Hillside Avenue Spit
Wf-14 Blackfish Creek South Spit
Wf-15 Old Wharf Point North Spit
Wf-16 Old Wharf Point South Spit
Wf-17 Lieutenant Island Logy bay Spit
Wf-18 Cliff Avenue Bay Barrier
Wf-19 Lieutenant Island South Spit
Wf-20 Lieutenant Island South Marsh
Wf-21 Catboat Road Spit
Wf-22 Audubon Sanctuary
Eh-1 Sunken Meadow Spit
Tr-3 Harbor Bar
Tr-4 Pamet River South Spit
Tr-5 Bound Brook Beach
Tr-7 Ballston Beach

46 Tr-7 Tr-1 Beach Point
Tr-2 Great Swamp Beach
Tr-3 Pamet River North
Tr-6 Head of Meadow Beach
Tr-7 Ballston Beach

47 Pt-1 Pt-1 Long Point
Pt-2 Race Point Beach
Tr-1 Pilgrim Beach
Tr-6 Head of Meadow Beach

48 Gn-33 Gn-27 South Rock East
Gn-28 South Rock
Gn-29 Pasque I/Quicks Hole Small Pond
Gn-30 Pasque I/Quicks Pond
Gn-31 Quicks Hole Pond
Gn-32 Canapitsit Harbor
Gn-33 Cuttyhunk Pond South Spit
Gn-34 West End Pond South
Gn-35 West End Pond Spits
Gn-36 Fresh Water Pond Marsh
Gn-37 Cuttyhunk Pond West
Gn-38 Copicut North
Gn-39 Copicut Neck spit
Gn-40 Canapitsit - Small Pond North.
Gn-41 Knox Point Marsh
Gn-42 Knox Point East
Gn-43 Rock Island Beach

156

Gn-44 Jeep Trail Pond/West of the Neck
Gn-45 The Neck Tombolo
GnA6 North Point/South Beach
Gn-47 North Rock
Gn-48, Pasque Island/Westend salt marsh
Gn-49 Pasque Island/Nonh
Gn-77 Penikese Island South Spit
Gn-78 Penikese Island East

49 Ch-1 5 Gn-9
Gn-10 Great Swamp North Beach
Gn-1 1 Great Swamp Large Pond
Gn-12 Great Swamp South Pond
Gn-13 South Bluff West Beach
Gn-14 South Bluff East Beach
Gn-15 Tarpaulin Cove Middle Beach
Gn-16 Tarpaulin Cove Pond
Gn-17 Tarpaulin Cove South Pond
Gn-18 Tarpaulin Cove Lighthouse
Gn-19 Tarpaulin Cove Lighthouse #2
Gn-20 Tarpaulin Cove Lighthouse #3
Gn-21 Tarpaulin Cove Lighthouse South
Gn-22 French Watering Place
Gn-23 French Watering Place South Beach
Gn-24 Naushon Point
Gn-25 Robinsons Hole South
Gn-26 Pawque 1. Southwest Beach
Gn-49 Pasque Island North
Gn-50. Pasque Island North Pond Beach
Gn-51 Robinsons Hole Pond
Gn-52 West Beach
Gn-53 Crescent Beach
Gn-54 Kettle Cove Spit
Gn-55 Kettle Cove North Beach
Gn-56 Silver Beach
Gn-57 Silver Beach East
Ch-1 5 Cape Higgon South
CN-16 Paint Mill
Ch-17 Paint Mill #2
Ch-18 Hadock Pond
Wt-9 Grey Pond

50 Tb-9 Wt-10 Tisbury Lane #1
Wt-1 1 Tisbury Lane #2
Wt-12 Tisbury Lane #2
Wt-13 Doggetts Pond
Wt- 14 Cedar Tree Neck
Wt-15 Lilly Pond
Wt-16 James Pond
Wt-17 Lambens Cove
Tb-1 Vineyard Haven Harbor Spit

157

Tb-2 Cedar Nock North Spit
Tb-3 Cedar Neck South Spit
Tb-4 Cedar Neck Bay
Tb-5 Mink Meadows North
Tb-6 Mink Meadows South
Tb-7 Lake Tashmoo East Spit
Tb-8 Fat Point South
Tb-9 Lake Tashmoo South
Tb-10 Hillman Point
Tb-11 Lake Tashmoo West Spit
Tb-12 Smith Brook
Tb-13 Norton point East
Ob-10 Vine Haven Harbor East Spit
Ob-11 Lagoon Pond inner Barrier Beach
Ob-12 Lagoon Pond Spite #1
Ob-13 Barnes Road-Lagoon Pond Spit

Ob-1 Joseph Sylvia State Beach Park
51a Et-36 Ob-2 Sengekontacket Pond North Spit
Ob-3 Hamlin Pond
Ob-4 Hart Haven Barrier Beach
Ob-5 Oak Bluffs Harbor South Spit
Ob-6 Oak Bluffs Harbor North Spit
Ob-7 Crystal Lake Barrier Beach
Ob-8 Eastville #1
Ob-9 Eastville #2
Ob-11 Lagoon Pond Inner Barrier Beach

Et-1 Edgartown Beach
Et-2 Haystack Point Spit
Et-3 ocean Heights View Barrier Beach
Et-4 Eagartown Beach South
Et-5 Edgartown Beach Spit
Et-6 Little Beach
Et-7 Inlet to Edgartown Harbor
Et-8 Bankers Way Beach
Et-9 Katama Road Salt Pond salt pond
Et-10 Edgartown Bay Road/Salt Pond
Et-11 Bluefish Point
Et-34 Norton Point
Et-35 Edgartown Great Pond Barrier Beach
Et-36 Jobs Neck #1
Et-37 jobs Neckk pond Barrier Beach

Et-13 Bayview Road Barrier Beach
51b Et-1 5 Et-14 Wasque Road/West Beach
Et-15 School Road South Beach
Et-16 Long Point
Et-17 Snow Point Barrier Beach
Et-18 Chappaquiddick Point
Et-19 Chappaquiddick Beach
Et-20 North Neck Road Barrier Beach

158

Et-21 North Neck Tombolo
Et-22 John Oliver Point
Et-23 Cape Poge Bay #1
Et-24 Cape Poge Bay #2
Et-25 Cape Poge Bay #3
Et-26 Cape Poge Bay #4
Et-27 Pease Pond Barrier Beach and Spit
Et-28 Cape Poge Elbow
Et-29 Shear Pon Pond Barrier Spits
Et-30 Little Neck Spit
Et-31 Cape Poge East Beach
Et-32 Pocha Pond Barrier Beach
Et-33 Washaqua Hill Barrier Beach
Et-34 Norton Point

52 Wt-8 Ch-1 ChIlmark Pond, Black Pt.
Ch-2 Chilmark Pond Barrier Beach
Wt-1 Watcha Pond #1
Wt-2 Watcha Pond #2
Wt-3 Watcha Pond #3
Wt-4 Scubby Neck
Wt-5 Homer Pond
Wt-6 Salt Pond at Big Homer's Pond Road
Wt-7 Long Cove
Wt-8 Tisbury Great Pond
Et-37 Jobs Neck Pond Barrier Beach
Et-38 Pohoganot Road
Et-39 Paqua Pond
Et-40 Oyster Pond Barrier Beach

53 Ch-6 Ch-2 Chilmark Pond Barrier Beach
Ch-3 Chilmark Pond #2
Ch-4 Stonewall Beach
Ch-5 Squibnocket Bight
Ch-6 Squibnocket Beach
Ch-7 Menemsha Pond #1 Spit
Ch-8 Nashaquftsa Pond Spit
Ch-9 Menemsha Pond #1
Ch-10 Menemsha Pond #2.
Ch-1 1 Menemsha Pond #3
Ch-12 Menemsha Pond #4
Ch-13 Gay Head Coast Guard Station
Ch-14 Menemsha Beach
Ch-19 Nomans Land
Gh-1 Long Beach
Gh-2 Gay Head Town Beach
Gh-3 Lobsterville/West Payson Rd. Spit

54 Nt-48 Nt-39 Madaket Point
Nt-40 Esther Island
Nt-41 Tuckernuck South Spit

159

Nt-42 Tuckernuck Northwest Sound
Nt-43 Muskeget Island Barrier Complex
Nt-44 North Pond Small Barrier
Nt-45 North Pond Bay Mouth Barrier
Nt-46 Tuckernuck Island East Pond Spit
Nt-47 Tuckemuck Island Bay Barrier Beach
Nt-48 Tuckernuck Is. Thin Pond Bay Barrier

55 Nt-34 Nt-1 Coatue Point
Nt-2 Brant Point
Nt-3 The Creeks
Nt-31 Miacomet Pond
Nt-32 Mioxes, Pond
Nt-33 Reedy Pond
Nt-34 Hummock Pond Bay Mouth Barrier
Nt-35 Clark Cove
Nt-36 Sheep Pond
Nt-37 Long Pond Bay Barrier
Nt-38 Hither Creek
Nt-49 Jackson Point
Nt-50 Jackson Point North
Nt-51 Warren Landing Barrier Beach
Nt-52 Eel Point
Nt-53 Eel Point Road
Nt-54 Capaum Pond
Nt-55 Reed Pond
Nt-56 Jetties Beach

56 Nt-28 Nt-1 Coatue Beach (see above)
Nt-4 Harbor View Road Beach
Nt-5 Pimnys Point
Nt-6 Shimmo Road #1
Nt-7 Shimmo Road #2
Nt-8 Abrams Point Spit
Nt-9 Shawkerno Bader Beach
Nt-10 Shawkemo #2
Nt-1 1 UMass Research Center/Folgers Marsh
Nt-12 Quaise Road
Nt-13 Quaise Point
Nt-14 Swains Neck
Nt-15 Polpis Harbor
Nt-16 Polpis Harbor #2
Nt-17 Polpis Harbor #3
Nt-18 Pocomo Meadow
Nt-19 Pocomo Road
Nt-20 Pocomo Road #2
Nt-21 Squam Swamp Beach
Nt-23 Wawinet Tombolo
Nt-24 Squam Pond
Nt-25 Squam Road Beach
Nt-26 Seachacha Pond

160

Nt-27 Tom Nevers Pond Barrier
Nt-28 Forked Pond Valley
Nt-29 Forked Valley West
Nt-30 Madequecham Barrier

57 Nt-23 Nt-22 Great Pond Spit
Nt-23 Wawinet Tombolo

(f= barrier.map)

161

I
ID
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I
I APPENDIX 8
Federal Coastal Barrier Resource System (COBRA)
I Units in Massachusetts
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I

Federal Coastal Barrier Resource System Units in Massachusetts

Coastal
Zone
Management
Mai) Unit Unit Code Name

1 MA-01 P Salisbury Beach

2 MA-02P Plum Island

3 coo Clark Pond
MA-03 Castle Neck

4 MA-03 Castle Neck
col Wingersheek Unit
Col B Brace Cove

5 C01A Good Harbor Beach/Milk Island

6 MA-04 West Beach (2 units)

7 MA-06 Phillips Island

8 MA-08P Snake Island
MA-09P Wallaston Beach
MA-10P Merrymount Park

9 col C West Head Beach
MA-1 1 Peddock/Rainsford Islands

10 MA-12 Cohasset Harbor
C02 North Scituate

11 C03 Rivermoor
C03A Rexhame

12 MA-13 Duxbury Beach (Squash Neck -
Standish Shore)
C04 Plymouth Bay

13 C06 Center Hill (Ship Pond, Salt
Pond)

14 MA-1 4P Town Neck
C08 Scorton

15 cog/C09P Sandy Neck (C09 Mill Creek)

164

16 cog Sandy Neck
MA-1 SP Chapin Beach
MA-1 6 Nobscusset
CIO Freemans Pond

17 C11 Namskaket Spits
C1 1 A-Cl I AP Boat Meadow
MA-20P Nauset Beach/Monomoy

18 MA-1 7P Griffin/Great Islands
MA-17AP Lieutenant Island
MA-1 8 Pamet Harbor
MA-18P Ballston Beach

19 MA-1 9P Provincetown

20 MA-19P Provincetown

21 MA-20P Nauset Beach/Monomoy

22 MA-20P Nauset Beach/Monomoy

23 C12 Chatham Roads

24 MA-23P Davis Beach
C1 3/Cl 3P Lewis Bay

25 C14 Squaw Island
C1 5-Cl 5P Centerville

26 C16 Dead Neck
C17 Popponesset Spit

27 C18/C18P Waquoit Bay
C1 8A Falmouth Ponds (Bournes Pond,
Green Pond)

28 C19 Black Beach
MA-24 Naushon Island (2 units)

29 MA-30 Herring Brook
MA-31 Squeteague Harbor
MA-32 Bassetts Island
MA-33 Phinneys Harbor

30 MA-24 Naushon Island (rarpaulin Cove,
French Watering Place, Naushon
Pt., West Beach

165

31 C31 Elizabeth Islands (West Pond,
Cuttyhunk Harbor, Quicks Hole
Pond, Pasque Island, Robinson
Hole)
MA-25P Penikese Island

32 MA-26 Harthaven
MA-27P Edgartown Beach
C26 EelPond
C27 Cape Poge
MA-28P Norton Point
C28 South Beach

33 C28 South Beach

34 C29/C29P Squibnocket Complex
MA-29P Nomans Land

35 C29A James Pond
C29B Mink Meadows

36 C20 Coatue Unit
C21 Sesachacha Pond

37 C22 Cisco Beach
C23 Esther Island

38 Tuckermuck Island (North Pond,
East Pond)
C25 Muskeget Island

39 C19A Buzzards Bay Complex (8 units)
MA-35 Planting Island

40 C1 9A Buzzards Bay Complex
C31A West Sconticut Neck (5 units)

41 C31 B Harbor View

42 MA-36 Round Hill
C32 Mishaum Point
MA-37P Demarest Lloyd Park
C33 Little Beach

43 C33 Little Beach
C43/C43P Horseneck Beach (C34 3 units)
D01 Little Compton Ponds

44 C34A Cedar Cove

166

APPENDIX C

Beach Staging Areas for Migratory Shorebirds

167

Coastal Areas Important as
Migratory Shorebird Staging Areas

Data from the Manomet Bird Observatory, Plymouth, MA

Type
GL Government land, not park or wildlife
x Not managed for wildlife or parks
SID State/municipal park
PP Private conservation land
U Unknown status
NW National Wildlife Refuge
ST Sewage treatment plant
NP National Park
SW State wildlife area (refuge, mgt. area)
PW Private wildlife sanctuary
PSF Private sodfarm
NSW National AND State Wildlife Refuge

Site Type

BARNSTABLE, MILL POND x

BOSTON, EARHART DAM GL

EAST BOSTON, BELLE ISLE GL
(2 locations)

BOSTON, MYSTIC PARK GL

BOSTON, MALDEN RIVER GL

BOSTON, PINE RIVER GIL
(2 locations)

BOSTON, PUTNAM AVE; JUST SW GL

BOSTON, ROCK ISLAND COVE GL

BOSTON, SAUGUS MARSH GL

BOSTON-WINTHROP, SNAKE ISLAND GL
(4 locations)

168

BOSTON, SEAPLANE BASIN x

BOSTON, THOMPSON ISLAND SID

BOSTON, WORLD'S END Pp

BOSTON, WEIR RIVER U

BREWSTER, PAINE'S CREEK x

BREWSTER, POINT OF ROCKS x

BREWSTER, QUIVET CREEK
& WING ISLAND BEACH x

DENNIS, CHAPIN BEACH x

EASTHAM, FIRST ENCOUNTER BEACH GL
(4 locations)

HULL, GUT x
MARION, KITANSETT, BUTLER'S POINT. x

MARION SEWAGE TREATMENT

MONOMOY ISLAND NWR, NO. END NW
(9 locations)

EASTHAM, NAUSET MARSH NP

ORLEANS, NEW ISLAND NP

NEWBURYPORT HARBOR GL
(3 locations)

EASTHAM, NAUSET
(COAST GUARD BEACH & NEW ISL.) Np
(5 locations)

PARKER RIVER NWR
(BEACH, SALT MARSH, IMPS) Nw
(3 locations)

PARKER RIVER NWR (PANNES) NW

REVERE POINT-O-PINES U

169

SCITUATE, THIRD CLIFF x
(5 locations)

SQUANTUM x

FAIRHAVEN, WEST ISLAND Sw

WINTHROP (BREAKWATER) x

DUXBURY BEACH PP, X
(3 locations)

PLYMOUTH BEACH GL, X
(4 locations)

PLUM ISLAND NW
(2 locations)

BOSTON, UMASS & MORRISSY BLVD GL, X

NANTUCKET HARBOR FLATS GL, X

LYNN HARBOR -GL, X

BRIDGEWATER STATE FARM

ROWLEY x

MANOMET, MBO BEACH x
(2 locations)

MONOMOY-NORTH AND SOUTH ENDS NW

BREWSTER, WING ISLAND x

PLYMOUTH BAY FLATS x

SCITUATE & MARSHFIELD,
NORTH & SOUTH RIVERS x

WESTPORT

PLUM ISLAND (REFUGE BEACH) NW

NEWBURYPORT/PLUM ISLAND NW
(2 locations)

170

ORLEANS, NAUSET (NORTH BEACH) NP
(3 locations)

HULL, ALLERTON POINT x

MONOMOY ISLAND NWR, SO. END NW
(2 locations)

BARNSTABLE, SANDY NECK
LEAST TERN COLONY AREA SW

BASS CREEK NEAR GRAYS' BEACH
TERN COLONY x

WELLFLEET BAY WILDLIFE SANCTUARY PW

MASHPEE, SOUTH CAPE BEACH x

ALLEN'S POND PW

ALLEN'S POND, EAST BEACH x

WESTPORT/DARTMOUTH TOWN LINE x

DARTMOUTH, LLOYD CENTER PW

WESTPORT, ACOAXET x

WESTPORT, GOOSEBERRY ISLAND SID

WESTPORT, TOWN BEACH/
HORSENECK BEACH SID

DUXBURY BEACH - SAQUISH GL, X

STAGE POINT BEACH (ROOST) x

BARNSTABLE MARSH & BASS CREEK x

BASS CREEK x

BARNSTABLE, SANDY NECK TERN POND Sw

BARNSTABLE, SANDY NECK COVE SW

BASS CREEK & SANDY NECK TERN POND Sw

ALLEN'S POND

171

NONQUITT SALT MARSH

SALTERS POINT

IPSWICH, CRANES BEACH (AREA A) p

IPSWICH, CRANES BEACH (AREA B)

IPSWICH, CRANES BEACH (AREA C)

MINI-MOY (BETWEEN NO. & SO.
MONOMOY)

CHATHAM, SOUTH BEACH ISLAND

BARNSTABLE, SANDY NECK SW

172

I
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I
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I
I APPENDIX D
Off-Road Vehicles, Recommended Equipment
and Suggested Trail and Driving Guidelines
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I

Off-Road Vehicles, Recommended Equipment,
and Suggested Trail and Driving Guidelines
(Adapted from The Cape Cod National Seashore Guide)

Where a barrier beach managment plan provides opportunities for off-
road vehicle use, the following will serve as recommended guidelines for
off-road vehicles and related equipment

Off-road vehicles should have:
1. Tires that meet minimum standards.
2. Required accessory equipment.
3. Valid state registration and inspection sticker.
4. A valid off road vehicle beach access permit affixed to the vehicle
consistent with the vehicle's state registration number.

Operators should:
1. Possess a valid state operator's license.
2. Review educational programs.

Coastal Beach and Dune Driving Guidelines:
1. Avoid access on or over driftline zones or expanding dune edges;
2. Avoid access on or over dunes;
3. Avoid access on or over areas of nesting shore birds, migrating shore
bird staging areas and rare, threatened and endangered species'
habitat.
4. Avoid driving on wrack line.
5. Follow previously made trails within oversand vehicle corridor;
6. Tire pressure is critical. Tires should be deflated to the point that
they will not cause adverse impacts to beach terrain. Friction may
cause pressure increase as a vehicle is driven. The vehicle may have
to be stopped and pressure reduced again.
7. Check tides before starting since some sections of beach may 'be
impassable at high tide.
8. Don't spin tires or the vehicle will be dug into a hole; a light foot on
the accelerator works best.
9. If the vehicle gets stuck check the tire pressure and lower pressure
again if necessary; try backing up in the vehicle tracks before moving
ahead.
10. Excessive speed endangers drivers, vehicles, other beach users, and
wildlife, a slow, steady speed and correct tire pressure is more
effective than faster speeds.
11. Tern and plover chicks may hide in vehicle tracks when frightened;
always look out for wildlife when driving on the beach.

174

Driving should not occur on:
1. Foreshore and foredune areas
2. Inner dune routes
3. Posted shorebird nesting areas
4. Beach areas designated for use by pedestrians only
5. Outside of oversand vehicle corridors
Exception: Vehicles may travel the foreshore when passing a beach cut which has
eliminated the legal oversand vehicle co)Wdor.

Safety and rights of way.-
1. Riding on fenders, tailgate, roof, or any exterior portion of a vehicle
not designed to carry passengers should be prohibited.
2. When two vehicles meet on the beach, the operator of the vehicle
with the water on the driver's right has the right of way. Self
contained recreational vehicles should always have the right of way
because of size and weight.

Oversand route maintenance:
1. Tire pressure should be such that no adverse impact is caused to the
beach terrain.
2. The operator of a vehicle which becomes stuck in the sand should
fill in all ruts or holes and remove any debris used to extricate the
vehicle.

Recommended equipment for all vehicles:
1. Shovel -- heavy duty type, equal to or better than a military folding
shovel
2. Tow device -- minimum length: 14 feet; minimum diameter:
5/16 inch (chain), 1/4 inch (cable), I inch nylon or polypropylene, 3/4
inch tow strap 1-1/2 inches wide (rope)
3. Jack -- standard size and type provided by manufacturer
4. Jack support board -- minimum size: 10 inches by 12 inches; minimum
thickness: 5/8 inch for plywood; 1-1/2 inches for solid wood
5. Tire pressure gauge -- must register to 5 pounds per square inch or
lower
6. Fire extinguisher
7. First aid kit
8. Spare tire -- must meet tire standards described below.
9. Minimal tire standards (rim diameter/tire section width in millimeters/tire
section width in inches)
131185n.25
14/195/7.50
15+/225/8.75
All tires should have a minimum profile series of 70.

175

77je above standards are minimum recommended sizes. For efficient beach
trave4 a tire section width of at least 235 millimeters in a non-aggressive tread
design is recommended "Mud W Snow" tires are considered an aggressive
tread

Driver education materials (programs, displays, signs):
1. Describe the values of barrier beach, coastal resources, dune, salt
marsh, and tidal flat environments
2. Describe the damage that inappropriate use of an off-road vehicle
use can cause to beach, dune, salt marsh, and tidal flat environments

176

I
PO
I
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I APPENDIX E
I Federal, State, Regional and Municipal Laws
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I

Laws That May Have Relevance to
Barrier Beach Management

Federal Statutes

Migratory Bird Treaty of 1918 16 U.S. Code 703

Coastal Zone Management Act 16 U.S. Code 1451

Endangered Species Act 16 U.S. Code 1531

Coastal Barrier Resources Act 16 U.S. Code 3502

Rivers & Harbor Act of 1899 33 U.S. Code 401

Water Pollution Control Act
(Clean Water Act) 33 U.S. Code 1251

Marine Protection, Research, and
Sanctuaries Act 33 U.S. Code 1401

Marine Plastic Pollution Research and
Control Act of 1987 33 U.S. Code 1901

National Flood Insurance Act 42 U.S. Code 4001

National Environmental Policy Act 42 U.S. Code 4321

Americans With Disabilities Act 42 U.S. Code 12101

178

State Statutes, Regulaflons and Executive Orders

Landowner Liability Limitations Mass. General Laws Chapter 21, �17c

Coastal Zone Management Act Mass. General Laws Chapter 21A, �4A
& Regulations 301 Code of Mass. Regulations 20.00

CZM Federal Consistency
Regulations 301 Code of Mass. Regulations 21.00

Clean Water Act Mass. General Laws Chapter 21, �42
& Regulations 314 Code of Mass. Regulations 1-15.00

Sanitary Code/Title V Regulations 310 Code of Mass. Regulations 15.00

Handicap Access Act Mass. General Laws Chapter 22, �13A
& Regulations 521 Code of Mass. Regulations 2-3.00
(Architectural Access Board)

Mass. Environmental Policy Act Mass. General Laws Chapter 30, ��61-62H
& Regulations 301 Code of Mass. Regulations 11.00

Areas of Critical Environmental
Concern Regulations 301 Code of Mass. Regulations 12.00

Motor Vehicles Act Mass. General Laws Chapter 90
& Regulations 540 Code of Mass. Regulations 1-19.00

Motorboats & Other Vessels Act Mass. General Laws Chapter 90B
& Regulations 323 Code of Mass. Regulations 1-5.00

Public Waterfront Act Mass. General Laws Chapter 91
& Regulations 310 Code of Mass. Regulations 9.00

Marine Fish & Fisheries Act Mass. General Laws Chapter 130
& Regulations 322 Code of Mass. Regulations 1-12.00

Coastal Wetlands Restriction Act Mass. General Laws Chapter 130, �.105
& Regulations 302 Code of Mass. Regulations 4.00

Inland Fisheries, Game & Other
Natural Resources Act Mass. General Laws Chapter 131
& Regulations 321 Code of Mass. Regulations 1-9.00

179

Wetlands Protection Act Mass. General Laws Chapter 131, �40
& Regulations 310 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.00

Endangered Species Act Mass. General Laws Chapter 131A
& Regulations 321 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.00

Ocean Sanctuary Act Mass. General Laws Chapter 132A
& Regulations 302 Code of Mass. Regulations 5.00

Pesticide Control Act Mass. General Laws Chapter 132B
& Regulations 333 Code of Mass. Regulations 1-11

Building Standards Mass. General Laws Chapter 143
& Regulations 248 Code of Mass. Regulations
(Plumbing)
521 Code of Mass. Regulations 2-3.00
(Architectural Access Board)
780 Code of Mass. Regulations 1-34.00
(Building Code, includes floodplain)

Mass. Historic Commission
Regulations 950 Code of Mass. Regulations 70-71.00

Crimes Against the Person Mass. General Laws Chapter 265

Crimes Against Property Mass. General Laws Chapter 266

Crimes Against Public Health Mass. General Laws Chapter 270

Executive Order No. 181: Barrier Beaches (1980)

Executive Order No. 190: Regulation of Off-Road Vehicle Use on Public Lands
Containing Coastal Wetlands Resources (1980)

180

Rg9lonal/Couft

Cape Cod Commission Act Chapter.716 of the Acts and Resolves of
1989; Chapter 2 of the Acts and
Resolves of 1990; Regional Policy Plan

Martha's Vineyard Chapter 831 of the Acts and Resolves of
Commission Act 1977

Lmal

Ordinances/Bylaws, Regulations, Rules, Policies and Guidelines

Examples: Zoning
Wetlands
Waterways
Animal Control
Loitering
Health

See the local city or town clerk for copies or further information.

181

-I.
.4
1 APPENDIX F
I State Environmental Agency Contacts
I
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1*
I
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I
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I
I
k 183
1
1

Executive Off ice of
IE-= nvi ron mental 0%,ffairs

-a Environmental Crimes Strike Force
--a Massachusetts Environmental Trust
-a Massachusetts Geographical Information System

Massachusetts Massachusetts Division of Water Resources
Coastal Zone Environmental Conservation Commission
Management Policy Act Unit Services (WRC)
(MGZM) (MEPA) (DCS)

Buzzards Massachusetts
Bay Project Bays Program
(BBP) (MBP)

Department of Department of Department of Department of Metropolitan
Environmental Environmental Fisheries, Wildlife Food & District
Management Protection & Environmental Agriculture Commission
(DEM) (DEP) Law Enforcement (DFA) (MOC)
m Waquoit Bay m Bureau of Resource (IDFWELW) m Division of Agricultural m Division of
National Estuarine Protection a Division of Fisheries Development Recreational
Research Reserve w Bureau of Waste & Wildlife a Division of Facilities & Programs
m Division of Prevention m Division of Regulatory Services w Division of
Forests & Parks a Bureau of Waste Marine Fisheries Reservations &
m Division of Resource Site Cleanup m Division or Historic Sites
Conservation m Bureau of Environmental Law s Division of Parks
Municipal Facilities Enforcement Engineering &
m Public Acress Construction
Board m Division of Central
Services
w Division of Watershed
Management

184

State Environmental Agency'Contacts
relevant to the managment of barrier beaches

Executive Office of Environmental Affairs: (617) 727-9800
A This is the Governor's cabinet level agency. See the flow chart on the facing page
for the bureaucratic breakdown. Coastal Zone Managment also has a "Coastal
Brier, which briefly explains the functions of the Commonwealth's environmental
departments, bureaus, divisions, offices and programs with telephone numbers and
addresses; call Mass. Coastal Zone Management at (617) 727-9530 for a copy.

(All numbers are in the 617 area e-rxept as noted)
Mass. Coastal Zone Management: 727-9530.
Mass. Environmental Policy Act Unit: 727-5830.
Department of Environmental Managment's Division of Forests and Parks:
727-3180 (includes Department owned public barrier beaches).
Department of Environmental Managment's Division of Resource Conservation:
727-3160.
Department of Environmental Protection has a Bureau of Resource Protection
under which falls the Division of Wetlands and Waterways: 292-5695
(administers the Mass. Wetlands Protection and Waterways programs).
Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and Environmental Law Enforcement's Division
of Fisheries and Wildlife: 727-3151 (this Division includes the states'
Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program: 727-9194); the
Division ot Marine Fisheries: 727-3193; the Division of Law Enforcement:
727-9905; and a HOTLINE: 1-800-632-8075.
Metropolitan District Commission: 727-5215 (the Commission owns metropolitan
area public recreational barrier beaches).

185

I
lqb
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.1
I APPENDIX G
I Glossary
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f 187
1

Glossary

A-Zone: flood zone subject to still water flooding during a storm with a 100.
year recurrence interval, as defined and mapped by Federal Emergency
Management Agency.

accretion: may be either natural or artificial. Natural accretion is the buildup of
land, solely by the action of the forces of nature, on a beach by deposition
of water or airborne material. Artificial accretion is a similar buildup of
land by reason of an act of man, such as the accretion formed by a groin,
breakwater, or beach fill deposited by mechanical means.

aeolian: on barrier beaches, features caused by the winds; wind-blown.

backshore: zone of the shore or beach lying between the foreshore and the
coastline comprising the berm or berms and acted upon by waves only
during severe storms, especially when combined with exceptionally high
water. Also backbeach.

barTier beach: a narrow low-lying strip of land consisting of beach and dunes
extending parallel to the trend of the coast and separated from the
mainland by a fresh, brackish or salt water body or marsh. Resource Area
protected under the Wetlands Protection Act and Regulations (See 310
Code of Mass. Regulations 10.29).

barrier island: a barrier beach that is unconnected to the mainland.

barrier lagoon: a bay roughly parallel to the coast and separated from the
open ocean by barrier islands. Also, the body of water encircled by coral
islands and reefs, in which case it may be called an atoll lagoon.

barrier spit: a barrier beach that is connected at one end to upland and
unconnected at the other end.

bay barrier: a barrier beach that is connected at both ends to upland.

beach: unconsolidated sediment subject to wave, tidal and coastal storm action
which forms the gently sloping shore of a body of salt water and extends
from the mean low waterline (including tidal flats) landward to the
duneline, coastal bankline or the seaward edge of coastal engineering
structures. Coastal beaches are a Resource Area protected under the
Wetlands Protection Act and Regulations (See 310 Code of Mass.
Regulations 10.27).

188

beach nourishment: the process of replenishing a beach or dune with material
(usually sand) obtained from another location, by mechanical or hydraulic
8means.

berm: a nearly horizontal upper part of the beach or one sloping away from
the ocean.

breakwater: a linear mound-like coastal engineering structure constructed
offshore, typically parallel to the shoreline; designed to protect landward
property, a harbor or anchorage from storm waves.

coastal bank: the seaward face or side of any elevated landform, other than
a coastal dune, which lies at the landward edge of a coastal beach, land
subject to tidal action, or other wetland. Coastal banks are a Resource
Area protected by the Wetlands Protection Act and Regulations (See 310
Code of Mass. Regulations 10.30) and may be significant to storm damage
prevention or flood control as a vertical buffer or as a sediment source for
beaches, dunes or barriers. Coastal bank differs from a coastal dune by the
fact that it has been glacially deposited. Top of coastal bank is defined in
the Wetlands Protection Program Policy 92-1.

coastal beach: see "beach."

coastal dune: see "dune."

cobble: rocks larger than pebbles and gravel but smaller than boulders; generally
around 3 inches (76 millimeters) in diameter.

conservation restriction: a legal agreement, either voluntary or involuntary,
designed to restrict use of privately owned land for conservation purposes.

current, longshore: the littoral current in the breaker zone moving essentially
parallel to the shore, usually generated by waves breaking at an angle to
the shoreline.

downdrift: in the direction of the predominant movement of sediment along
the shore.

dredging: the removal of sediment or excavation of tidal or subtidal bottom
to provide sufficient depths for navigation or anchorage.

drift: see "wrack"

dune: any natural hill, mound, or ridge of sediment landward of a coastal beach
deposited by the wind or storm overwash; sediment deposited by artificial
means and serving the purpose of storm damage prevention and flood
control. Coastal dunes are a Resource Area protected under the Wetlands

189

Protection Act and Regulations (See 310 Code of Mass. Regulations
10.28).

endangered: species threatened with imminent extinction, as defined by the state
and federal Endangered Species Acts.

entrapment capacity: when the updrift side of a groin or jetty is filled completely
with beach sediment.

eolian sands: sediments of sand s ize or smaller which have been transported
by winds. They may be recognized in marine deposits off desert coasts by
the greater angularity of the grains compared with waterborne particles.

erosion: the wearing away of land by the action of natural forces. On a beach,
the carrying away of beach material by wave action, tidal currents, littoral
currents, or by deflation.

estuary: a semi-enclosed body of water with an open connection to the sea
that is measurably diluted by freshwater drainage.

floodplain: the area of shorelands extending inland from the normal yearly
maximum stormwater level to the highest expected stormwater level in a
given period of time (i.e. 5, 50, 100 years).

foredune: the first dune or dune ridge landward of the beach.

foreshore: the part of the shore, lying between the crest of the seaward berm
(or upper limit of wave wash at high tide) and the ordinary low-water
mark, that is ordinarily traversed by the uprush and backrush of the waves
as the tides rise and fall.

glacial till: deposits of rock matter carried by the glacial ice.

gravel: rounded rock particles with diameters from 2 to 75 millimeters (1/6
to 3 inches.)

groin: a narrow elongated coastal engineering structure constructed on the
beach perpendicular to the trend of the beach; its intended purpose is to
trap longshore drift to build up a section of beach.

headland (head): a high, steep-faced promontory extending into the sea

high water line: in strictness, the intersection of the plane of mean high water
with the shore. The shoreline delineated on the nautical charts of the
National Ocean Service is an approximation of the high water line. For
specific occurrences, the highest elevation on the shore reached during a
storm or rising tide, including meteorological effects.

190

hurricane: an intense tropical cyclone with winds which move
counterclockwise around a low pressure system; maximum winds exceed 75
miles per hour.

intertidal zone (littoral zone): generally considered to be the zone between
mean high-water and mean low-water levels.

invertebrate: an animal without a backbone. Insects and mussels are
invertebrates.

jetty: a coastal engineering structure constructed perpendicular to the shoreline at
inlets; designed to prevent longshore drift from filling the inlet and to
provide protection for navigation.

littoral drift: the sedimentary material moved in the littoral zone under the
influence of waves and currents.

littoral processes: the movement of sediment, including sand, gravel, or cobbles
along the coast caused by waves or currents.

littoral transport: the movement of littoral drift in the littoral zone by waves
and currents. Includes movement parallel (Iongshore transport) and
perpendicular (on-offshore transport) to the shore.

marsh: a treeless form of wetland, often developing in shallow ponds or
depressions, river margins, tidal areas, and estuaries. Marshes may contain
either salt or fresh water. Prominent among the vegetation of marshes are
grasses and sedges.

mean high water: the average height of all of the high waters recorded at a
given place over a 19 year period.

mean low water: the average height of all of the low waters recorded at a
given place over a 19 year period.

mean sea level: the average height of the surface of the sea at a given place
for all stages of the tide over a 19 year period.

mean tide level: a plane midway between mean high water and mean low
water. Not necessarily equal to mean sea level. Also half-tide level.

northeaster: a large asymmetrical low pressure storm system that produces
counterclockwise winds from 30 to 70 miles per hour which strike northeast
facing coastal areas.

191

overwash: the uprush and overtopping of a coastal dune by storm waters.
Sediment is usually carried with the overwashing water and deposited as a
washover fan on the landward side of the dune or barrier.

peat: partly decayed organic matter formed in boggy areas where high acidity
and a lack of oxygen limits decomposition.

perched barrier: a barrier beach where beach and dune deposits overlie irregular
glacial surfaces, whereas the underlying glacial surface extends to a
maximum elevation of mid-tide.

profile, beach: the intersection of the ground surface with a vertical plane;
may extend from the top of the dune line to the seaward limit of sand
movement.

revetment: an apron-like sloped coastal engineering structure constructed on
a bank or fronting a seawall; designed to dissipate the force of storm waves
and prevent erosion or undermining of a seawall.

salt marsh: a inarsh periodically flooded by salt water. Salt marshes are protected
under the Wetlands Protection Act and Regulations (See 310 Code of
Mass. Regulations 10.32).

sand: loose material which consists of grains of rock material ranging between
0.0625 and 2.0 millimeters in diameter.

scour: removal of underwater material by waves and currents, especially at the
base or toe of a shore structure.

seawall: a vertical wall-like coastal engineering structure constructed parallel
to the beach and usually located at the base of a coastal bank.

sediment: solid fragmental material that originates from weathering of rocks
and is transported or deposited by air, water, or ice. Essentially all
unconsolidated materials.

storm ridge: a low ridge of coarse gravel, cobbles and/or boulders piled up
by storm waves; located at the inner margin of the beach and not reached
by average waves or spring tides.

succession: the gradual replacement of one biotic community by another,
eventually leading to a more or less stable community.

tidal flats: marshy or muddy land areas which are covered and uncovered by
the rise and fall of the tide. Protected under the Wetlands Protection Act
and Regulations (See 310 Code of Mass. Regulations 10.27).

192

tidal inlet: a breach in a coastal barrier generally opened by a major storm
and maintained by tidal flow.

tombolo: a barrier beach that connects an island to the mainland or to another
island.

updrift: the direction opposite that of the predominant movement of sediment
along the shore.

upland: a general term for high land or ground that is elevated above the
floodplain.

velocity zone (V-zone): flood zone subject to velocity water flooding during a
storm with a 100 year recurrence interval, as designated and mapped by the
Federal Emergency Management Agency.

washover fan: see "overwash."

wrack line: a line generally defining the landward limit of high tide or storm
wave uprush typically consisting of seaweed, shells and other submerged
organisms that have died.

Definitions developed from sources including. Bartier Island Handbook
(Leatherman, 1979); Guide to the Coastal Wetlands Regulations (Massachusetts
Coastal Zone Managment, 1978); and Shore Protection Manual (US Army Corps of
Engineers, 1984).

193

APPENDIX H

Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife
Guidelines for Managing Recreational Use
of Beaches to Protect Piping Plovers,
Terns and Their Habitats in Massachusetts

195

Curnrnonv.-ealth of M ssachLlSeUS
Divisionot
Fisheffies &Wildlife
Wayne F. MacCallum, Director

April 21, 1993

Dear Beach Manager:

The attached- guidelines were developed by the Division of Fisheries
and wildlife to help managers and property. owners comply with
regulations pursuant toi,the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act
and Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act pertaining to the
protection of piping plovers, terns, and their habitats.

These guidelines have evolved through numerous discussions and
consultations with other state and federal resource management
agencies, private conservation groupp, wildlife biologists, beach
managers, beach users, and town conservation commissions. Through
these guidelines, we are seeking to provide necessary protection to
piping plovers and terns without unnecessarily restricting
appropriate access to Massachusetts' beaches.

Please contact the staff of our Natural Heritage and Endangered
Species Section at 508-792-7270 if you have questions about these
guidelines or would like to discuss specific issues of rare species
management on your beaches.

Sincerely,
h4ew
-;/- A@

Wayne F. MacCallum,
Director

encl.

Division of Fisheries & Wildlife
Leverett Saltonstall Buildin&
-Government Center 100 Cambridge Street, Boston, NtA 02202 (617) 727-3151
An Agency of the Department of Fisheries. WikUife & Environmental Law Enforcement

196

GUIDELINES FOR MANAGING RECREATIONAL USE OF BEACHES TO PROTECT
16 PIPING PLOVERS, TERNS, AND THEIR HABITATS IN MASSACHUSETTS
Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife
Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program
Field Headquarters, Rt. 135
Westborough, MA 01581

21 April 1993

I. INTRODUCTION

The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (the
Division) has developed the following guidelines to assist beach
managers and property owners with protecting piping plovers,
least terns, common terns, roseate terns, arctic terns, and their
habitats. Implementing these guidelines will help beach managers
and property owners avoid potential violations of the
Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MGL c. 131A) and its
implementing regulations (321 CMR 10.00) involving recreational
use of beaches used by piping plovers and terns for breeding and
nesting habitat.

The Division intends to apply these guidelines in its review
of Notices of Intent, pursuant to the Massachusetts Wetlands
Protection Act regulations (310 CMR 10.37), for vehicular use of
beaches where piping plovers and terns occur.

The Department of Environmental Protection has developed a
set of recommended conditions for barrier beach management to be
used by municipal conservation commissions in drafting orders of
Conditions. In addition, the Massachusetts Barrier Beach Task
Force, coordinated by the Office of Coastal Zone Management, has
developed a comprehensive set of guidelines covering the full
range of barrier beach management issues. The following
guidelines should be read and applied in conjunction with these
other documents.

Users of these piping plover and tern guidelines are advised
that they do not supersede any law., regulation, or official
policy of this or any other agency. Rather, these guidelines are
intended to complement other regulatory review processes
regarding recreational activities on beaches by providing a
standard set of scientifically based management recommendations.

This document contains five sections: 1) an introduction, 2)
summaries of life histories of these species and threats to their
continued existence in the state, 3) a summary of pertinent laws
and regulations, 4) guidelines for managing and protecting
plovers, terns, and their habitats, and 5) literature cited.

In these guidelines, the Division has sought to provide the
necessary protection to piping plovers and terns without

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Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife 2
Piping Plover and Tern Guidelines
21 April 1993

unnecessarily restricting appropriate access along all of the
state's beaches. The Division has a long history of promoting
the rights of citizens to enjoy a variety of outdoor pursuits,
provided that they do not jeopardize the state's wildlife
resources. The Division has worked to facilitate fishing and
hunting access statewide and has supported the common law right
of access to the shorelines of the coast and "Great Ponds" for
the purposes of fishing and fowling. Although these guidelines
make it clear that it will be necessary at times to restrict
vehicular access temporarily on beaches where and when piping
plovers and terns are present, the Division will only support
such restrictions when it is necessary to protect the habitat,
nests, and unfledged chicks of plovers and terns. The Division
w
ill continue to seek and consider management measures that offer
i
maximum flexibility in balancing recreational use with protection
of rare species and their habitats. Even when vehicular access
is.restricted, the Division will normally support continued
access to beaches for fishermen and other recreational users by
foot and by boat.

11. SPECIES STATUS, LIFE HISTORY, AND THREATS

Piping Plover

Piping plovers are small, sand-colored shorebirds that nest
on sandy, coastal beaches from South Carolina to Newfoundland.
The U.S. Atlantic coast population is listed as "Threatened" by
the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under provisions of the U.S.
Endangered Species Act of 1973 (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
1988), and was estimated at 790 pairs in 1992 (U.S. Fish and
wildlife Service 1992). In Massachusetts, the piping plover is
also listed as "Threatened" by the Massachusetts Division of
Fisheries and Wildlife under provisions of the Massachusetts
Endangered Species Act. In 1992, 213 pairs of piping plovers
nested on Massachusetts beaches (Melvin 1992).

Piping plovers nest on coastal beaches above the high-tide
line, sand flats at the end of sand spits, gently sloping
foredunes, and in blow-outs or washover areas between or behind
coastal dunes. They may also nest where sandy dredged material
has been deposited. Nests are simple scrapes in the sand or
mixtures of sand, gravel, and shells. Nests are placed on open
sand or in patches of sparse to moderately dense beach grass and
other dune vegetation. Piping plovers depend on natural
processes of beach erosion and accretion through wind and wave
action to maintain suitable nesting habitat.

Piping plovers return to nesting beaches in Massachusetts

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Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife 3
Piping Plover and Tern Guidelines
21 April 1993

from mid-March to early May. Males establish and defend
territories and court females. Nesting may occur from mid-April
through late July. Clutch size is usually four eggs, and eggs
are usually incubated for 27-28 days before hatching. Piping
plovers fledge only a single brood per season, but may renest
several times if previous nests are lost. Chicks are precocial
and able to move about within hours after hatching. They may
move hundreds of yards from the nest site during their first week
of life. Chicks remain together with one or both parents until
they fledge (are able to fly) at 25 to 35 days of age. Depending
on date of hatching, unfledged chicks may be present from late
May until mid-August, although most fledge by the end of July.
Adults and chicks feed on amphipods, marine worms, flies, and
other invertebrates. The.most important feeding habitats for
both adults and chicks are intertidal areas and wrack (seaweed,
vegetation, shells, and other organic debris deposited on the
beach by tides and storms) (Gibbs 1986, Goldin et al. 1990,
Hoopes et al. 1992).

Sandy beaches that provide nesting habitat for piping
plovers are also attractive recreational habitats for people and
their pets. Human recreational activities can be a source of
both disturbance and direct mortality to piping plovers (Blodget
1990, Melvin et al. 1991). People on beaches may inadvertently
crush eggs, cause nests to be abandoned, and disturb or displace
unfledged chicks. Unleashed dogs may chase adults, kill chicks,
and eat eggs. Kites and fireworks are highly disturbing to
piping plovers (Hoopes et al. 1992; Howard et al. 1993).

Unrestricted use of motorized vehicles on beaches is a
serious threat to piping plovers and their habitats. Vehicles
can crush both eggs and chicks (Burger 1986, Patterson 1988,
trauss 1990, Melvin et al. 1991). In Massachusetts, biologists
documented 7 incidents in which 9 chicks were killed by vehicles
bSetween 1989 and 1992 (Melvin et al. 1993). Many biologists that
monitor and manage piping plovers believe thatmany more chicks
are killed by vehicles than are found and reported. On sections
of Massachusetts beaches used by vehicles during nesting and
brood-rearing periods, breeding plovers are gene'rally either
absent or less abundant than expected given available nesting and
feeding habitat. In contrast, plover abundance and productivity
has increased on beaches where vehicle restrictions during chick-
rearing periods have been combined with protection of nests from
predators.

Typical behaviors of piping plover chicks increase their
vulnerability to vehicles (Melvin et al. 1993). Chicks
frequently move between the upper berm or foredune and feeding
habitats in the wrack line and intertidal zone. These movements
place chicks in the paths of vehicles driving along the berm or

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Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife 4
Piping Plover and Tern Guidelines
21 April 1993

through the intertidal zone. Chicks stand in, walk, and run
along tire ruts, and sometimes have difficulty crossing deep ruts
or climbing out of them. Chicks sometimes stand motionless or
crouch as vehicles pass by, or do not move quickly enough to get
out of the way. Wire fencing placed around nests to deter
predators is ineffective in protecting chicks from vehicles
because chicks typically leave the nest within a day after
hatching and move extensively along the beach to feed.

vehicles also degrade piping plover habitat by crushing
wrack into the sand and making it unavailable as cover or a
foraging substrate, by,creating ruts that may trap or impede
.movements of chicks, and by causing disturbance that may prevent
plovers from using habitat that is otherwise suitable (Goldin et
al. 1990, Strauss 1990, Melvin et al. 1993).

Least Tern

Least terns are small, white and black seabirds that nest
along Atlantic coast beaches from southern Maine to Florida. The
least tern is listed as a "Species of Special Concern" by the.
Division of Fisheries and wildlife under provisions of the
Massachusetts Endangered Species Act. An estimated 2,642 pairs
.nested at 51 sites in Massachusetts in 1992 (Blodget 1992).

Least terns nest in habitats that are similar to those of
the piping plover, and the two@species often nest near each
other. Least terns arrive in Massachusetts in early May, engage
in elaborate courtship rituals, mate, and quickly establish
nesting colonies. Actual nesting occurs from about the third
week of May to mid-July. Nesting colonies range in size from
several pairs to over 500 pairs. Nests are shallow "scrapes" in
the sand, usually in sandy areas devoid of vegetation, but
sometimes in areas of sparse beach grass, beach pea, and other
dune vegetation. Least terns, like piping plovers, have nested
along the Atlantic-coast for thousands of years and depend on
natural processes of beac *h and dune erosion and accretion to
maintain their habitats.

Clutches consist of 1-3 eggs and incubation averages 21 to
23 days. Least terns are single-brooded, but will renest
multiple times if previous nests are lost. Chicks are precocial
and may move considerable distances along the beach before
fledging, which occurs after 20-22 days. Adults deliver fish
caught in the surrounding waters to chicks. Soon after chicks
are able to fly, least terns gather in pre-migratory flocks and
depart southward; most are gone before the end of August.

Least terns are vulnerable to disturbance from humans, pets,

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Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife 5
Piping Plover and Tern Guidelines
21 April 1993

and vehicles during periods of courtship and egg-laying in May
and June. Similar to piping plovers, incubating least tern
adults, eggs, and chicks are extremely cryptic. Prolonged or
repeated disturbance at colonies can lead to egg and chick loss
from exposure, predation, or abandonment. Least tern chicks are
also vulnerable to mortality caused by off-road vehicles, and may
stand or crouch in or walk and run along vehicle ruts.

Common. Roseate. and Arctic Terns

These three similar species of white and black seabirds nest
together in mixed-species colonies.. All are slightly larger than
the least tern. The common tern is indeed the most "common" of
the group. In 1992, 8,600 pairs were estimated at 35 sites in
Massachusetts, although only 9 of those colonies exceeded 100
pairs (Blodget 1992). The arctic tern, at the southern edge of
its natural range in Massachusetts, has been declining since the
1950's and reached an all-time low of only 8 pairs in 1992. Both
of these species are listed by the Massachusetts Division of
Fisheries and Wildlife as "Species of Special Concern" under
prov isions of the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act.

The Northeastern population of the roseate tern is listed as
"Endangered" by both the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under the
U.S. Endangered Species Act of 1973 (U.S. Fish and wildlife
Service 1989), and the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and
Wildlife under provisions of the Massachusetts Endangered Species
Act. Of an estimated 1,412 pairs in Massachusetts in 1992, 1,375
pairs (97%) nested on Bird Island in Buzzards Bay (Blodget 1992).
The rest were scattered among large colonies of common terns.

These three species of larger terns prefer to nest on
offshore islands and remote tips of barrier beaches.
Unfortunately, gulls have usurped most optimal nesting sites
since the 19501s, forcing terns to nest at a limited number of
secondary inshore sites where they are more exposed to human
disturbance and a host of land-based predators.

The life histories of these three species of terns are
generally similar. Exemplifying the three, common terns select
dune areas with moderate-to dense stands of beach gra -ss and other
dune vegetation. Birds arrive from the south in early May and
select colony sites before the end of May. Ritualized courtship
and pair formation occur on the beach and sandflats adjacent to
the colony site. Nesting colonies range from a few to over 4,000
pairs. Nests are usually scrapes in the sand lined with beach
grass andseaweed. Clutches of 2-3 eggs are laid and both
parents share incubation duties for about 23 days. Young are
precocial but are fed and brooded by adults. Diets of these

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Massachuset,ts Division of Fisher4 .3 and Wildlife 6
Piping Plo%-:r and Tern Guideline!@.
21 April 1993

terns are almost exclusively fish. As the young approach
fledging at about.28 days, they congregate in rearing or
"nursery" areas on broad expanses of beach and sand flats, where
they loaf and are fed by adults. At some sites, thousands of
young terns may be present in thes'e nursery areas from late Tuly
through mid-August. After mid-August, most terns ave fledq"-d
and all three species gather at staging areas prior to departing
for winter quarters by the end of August.

Prolonged or repeated disturbance at nesting colonies or
nursery areas of common, arctic, or roseate terns can lead to egg
and chick loss from exposure, predation, or abandonment. Eggs
and young chicks tend to be less subject to mortality from
vehicles because they occur more often in dune areas@ but older
chicks are sometimes run over when they move onto the outer beach
prior to fledging. Older chicks have also been found dead,
tangled in kite string.

Ill. MASSACHUSETTS LAW

This section is provided to give a brief overview of
provisions ofthe Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and
Endangered Species Act that are pertinent to the management of
piping plovers, terns, and their habitats. The reader is
strongly advised to read the official texts of t@e current laws
and regulations cited below.

Massachusetts Wetlands Protection-Act (MGL c. 131 s. 40)

The Natural Heritage and Endangered_Species Program of the
Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (the Program)
acts as the scientific authority to determine what is actual
habitat and to provide an opinion about whether proposed
activities subject to the Wetlands Protection Act will have
adverse effects on rare wetlands wildlife habitat. Opinions
issued by the Program are presumed to be correct, although this
presumption is rebuttable and may be overcome upon a clear
showing to the contrary.

Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MGL c-. 131A)

The Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) and
regulations (321 CMR 10.00) are administered by the Massachusetts
Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. The Act prohibits the
"taking" of any species of animal or plant listed as

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21 April 1993

"Endangered", "Threatened", or "Species of Special Concern" in
Massachusetts. For animals, "taking" is defined as: "to harass,
harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, hound, kill, trap, capture, collect,
process, disrupt the nesting, breeding, feeding, or migratory
activity or attempt to engage in any such conduct, or to assist
such conduct". Regulations implementing the Act state further
that: "All state agencies shall utilize their authorities in
furtherance of the purposes of MESA and these regulations;
review, evaluate and determine the impact on Endangered,
Threatened and Special Concern species or their habitats of all
works, projects, or activities conducted by them; and use all
practicable means and measures to avoid or minimize damage to
such species or their habitats." This includes "any work,
project, or activity either directly undertaken by a state
agency, or if undertaken by a person, which seeks the provision
of financial assistance by an agency or requires the issuance of
permits by an agency".

IV. MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES

VEHICLE MANAGEMENT

Protection of Nests and Nesting Habitat

On beaches where vehicles will be driven, all areas of
suitable piping plover nesting habitat, as determined by the
Division, should be identified and delineated with posts and
warning signs or symbolic fencing on or before April 1 each year.
@uitable nesting habitat for all species of terns should be
identified and so delineated on or before May 15 each year.

All vehicular access into or through delineated nesting
habitat should be prohibited. However, prior to hatching,
vehicles may pass by such areas along designated vehicle
corridors established along the outside edge of plover and tern
nesting habitat. Vehicle may also park outside delineated
nesting habitat, if beach width and configuration and tidal
conditions allow. Vehicle corridors or parking areas should be
moved, constructed, or temporarily closed if territorial,
courting, or nesting plovers or terns are disturbed by passing or
parked vehicles, or if disturbance is anticipated because of
unusual tides or expected increases in vehicle use during
weekends, holidays, or special events.

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21 April 1993

Protection of Chicks and Chick Habitat

Sections of beaches where unfledged piping plover or tern
chicks are present should be temporarily closed to all vehicles
not deemed essential. (See the provisions for essential vehicles
below.)

when unfledged plover chicks are present, vehicles should be
prohibited from all dune, beach, and intertidal habitat within
100 yards of either side of a line drawn through the nest site
and perpendicular to the long axis of the beach. The resulting
200 yard-wide area of protected habitat for plover chicks should
extend from the ocean-side low water line to the bay-side low
water line or to the farthest extent of dune habitat if no bav-
side intertidal habitat exists. However, vehicles may be allowed
to pass through portions of the protected area that are
considered inaccessible to plover chicks because of steep
topography, dense vegetation, or other naturally-occurring
obstacles. If unfledged plover chicks move outside the original
200 yard-wide area of protected habitat, then the boundaries of
the protected area.should be adjusted to provide at least a 100
yard buffer between chicks and vehicles.

when unfledged least tern chicks are present, vehicles
should be prohibited from all dune, beach, and intertidal habitat
within 100 yards of either side of lines drawn through the
outermost nests in the colony and perpendicular to the long axis
of the beach. The resulting area of protected habitat for least
tern chicks should extend from the ocean-side low water line to
the bay-side low water line, or to the farthest extent of dune
habitat if no bay-side intertidal zone exists. If unfledged
chicks move outsi,.1--! the original protected area, then the
boundaries of the protected area should be adjusted to provide at
least a 100 yard-wide buffer between unfledged chicks and
vehicles. However, vehicles may pass through any portions of the
protected area considered inaccessible to least tern chicks
because of distance, steep topography, dense vegetation, or other
naturally-occurring obstacles. Because least tern chicks
disperse from nests shorter distances and at older ages than
piping plover chicks, under some circumstances it may be possible
to allow passage of vehicles through portions of protected least
tern chick habitat if,,in the opinion of the Division, this can
occur without substantially increasing threats to least tern
chicks or their habitats.

Timing of Vehicle Restrictions in Chick Habitat

Restrictions on use of vehicles in areas where unfledged
plover or tern chicks are 'present should begin on or before the

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Piping Plover and Tern Guidelines
21 April 1993

date that hatching begins and continue until chicks have fledged.
For purposes of vehicle management, plover chicks are considered
fledged at 35 days of age or when observed in flight, whichever
occurs first. Tern chicks are considered fledged when they are
capable of flight.

when piping plover nests are found before the last egg is
laid, restrictions on vehicles should begin on the 26th day after
the last egg is laid. This assumes an average incubation period
of 27 days, and provides a I day margin of error.

When plover nests are found after the last egg has been
laid, making it impossible to predict hatch date, restrictions on
vehicles should begin on a.date determined by 1 of 3 scenarios:

1) If a plover nest found with a complete clutch is
monitored twice per day, at dawn and dusk (before 0600 hrs
and after 1900 hrs), vehicle use may continue until hatching
begins. Nests should be monitored at dawn and dusk to
minimize the time that hatching may go undetected if it
occurs after dark. Whenever possible, nests should be
monitored from a distance with spotting scope or binoculars
to minimize disturbance to incubating plovers.

2) If a plover nest is found with a complete clutch before
May 22 (the earliest recorded hatch date for piping plovers
in Massachusetts), and is not monitored twice per day, at
dawn and dusk, then restrictions on vehicles should begin
May 22.

3) If a plover nest is found with a complete clutch on or
after May 22, and is not monitored twice per day, at dawn
and dusk, then restrictions on vehicles should begin
immediately.

If hatching occurs earlier than expected, or chicks are
discovered from an unreported nest, restrictions on vehicles
should begin immediately.

If, in the opinion of the Division, ruts are present that
are deep enough to restrict movements of plover chicks, or
vehicle impacts on wrack are so severe that wrack must be allowed
to accumulate naturally prior to hatching, then restrictions on
vehicles should begin at least 5 days prior to the anticipated
hatching date of plover nests. If a plover nest is found with a
complete clutch, precluding estimation of hatching date, and
availability of wrack has been substantially reduced by vehicle
passage, or deep ruts have been created that could reasonably be
expected to impede chick movements, then restrictions on vehicl.es
should begin immediately.

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Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife
Piping Plover and Tern Guidelines
21 April 1993

Restrictions on use of vehicles in least tern chick habitat
should begin as soon as hatching begins (as early.as June 12).
Restrictions may begin later if, in the opinion of the Division,
tern chicks are not endangered by vehicles because of distance
or intervening steep terrain, dense vegetation, or other
naturally-occuring barriers.

Areas of dune, beach, or intertidal habitat used as nursery
areas by unfledged or recently fledged tern chicks, as identified
by the Division, should be delineated with postst warning signs
or symbolic fencing no later than June 21. All access by
vehicles into posted tern nursery areas should be prohibited
while unfledged or recently-fledged tern chicks are present in
these areas, until it is determined that use of nursery areas by
young terns has ended (i.e. young terns are no longer being fed
by adult terns).

Essential Vehicles

Essential vehicles, as defined by municipal conservation
commissions pursuant to the Guidelines for Barrier Beach
Management in Massachusetts developed by the Massachusetts
Barrier Beach Task Force, should only travel on sections of
beaches where unfledged plover or tern chicks are present if such
travel is absolutely necessary and no other reasonable travel
routes are available. Essential vehicles should travel through
chick habitat areas only during daylight hours, except-in
emergencies, and should be guided by a qualified monitor who has
first determined the location of all unfledged plover and tern
chicks. All steps should be taken to minimize number of trips by
essential vehicles through chick habitat areas. Use of open, 3
or 4-wheel motorized all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) or non-motorized
all-terrain bicycles is recommended whenever possible for
monitoring and law enforcement because of the improved visibility
afforded operators. Homeowners should consider other means of
access, e.g., by water, or shuttle services, during periods when
chicks are present. A log should be maintained by the beach
manager of the date, time, vehicle number and operator, and
purpose of each trip through areas where unfledged chicks are
present. Personnel monitoring plovers and terns should maintain
and regularly update a log of the numbers and locations of
unfledged plover and tern chicks on each beach. Drivers of
essential vehicles should review the log each day to determine
the most recent number and location of unfledged chicks.

Travel by essential vehicles should avoid the wrack Ane and
should be infrequent enough to avoid creating deep ruts that
could impede chick movements. If essential vehicles are
substantially reducing availability of wrack or are creating ruts

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Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife
Piping Plover and Tern Guidelines
21 April 1993

that could impede chick movements, use of essential vehicles
should be further reduced and, if necessary, restricted to only
emergency vehicles.

MANAGEMENT OF OTHER RECREATIONAL USES

The activities discussed in this section are not subject to the
jurisdiction of the Wetlands Protection Act because they are not
considered to be alterations of wetland resources areas. The
following guidelines should only be applied in reference to the
Massachusetts Endangered Species Act.

On beaches where pedestrians, joggers, sun-bathers,
picnickers, fishermen, boaters, horseback riders or other
recreational users will be present in numbers that could harm or
disturb incubating plovers or terns their eggs, or chicks, refuge
areas of at least 50 yard-radius around nests and above the high
tide line should be delineated with warning signs and symbolic
fencing. only persons engaged in rare species monitoring,
management, or research activities should enter refuge areas.
Refuge areas should remain fenced as long as viable eggs or
unfledged chicks are present.

Refuge areas around nests should be expanded if a 50 yard-
radius is deemed inadequate to protect incubating adults or
unfledged chicks from harm or disturbance. This may incliide
situations where plovers or terns and especially intolerant of
@uman presence, or where a 50 yard-radius refuge provides
insufficient escape cover or alternative foraging opportunities
for plover chicks. If nests are discovered outside fenced areas,
fencing should be extended to create a sufficient buffer to
prevent harm or disturbance to incubating adults, eggs, or
unfledged chicks. On some beaches where plovers and terns have
traditionally nested or where suitable habitat occurs, it may be
necessary to symbolically fence portions of habitat during March
or April, prior to plover nesting, or during may, prior to tern
nesting, if, in the opinion of the Division, failure to do so
could discourage plovers or terns from nesting as a result of
disturbance from human use.

Rearing or nursery areas used by unfledged or recently
fledged tern chicks, as identified by the Division, should be
delineated with posts, warning signs, or symbolic fencing not
later than June 21. Only persons engaged in rare species
monitoring, management, or research should enter posted or fenced
tern nursery areas while unfledged tern chicks or tern chicks
being.fed by adult terns are present, although individuals may
pass by outside these areas. Such nursery areas may be re-opened

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Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife
Piping Plover and Tern Guidelines
21 April 1993

when all tern chicks have fledged and are not being fed b@,. adult
terns.

Pets should be leashed and under control of their owners at
all times from April 1 to August 31 on beaches where piping
plovers or terns are present or have traditionally nested. Pets
should be prohibited on these beaches from April 1 through August
31 if, based on observations and experiences, pet owners fail to
keep pets leashed and under control.

Kite flying should be prohibited within 200 yards of nesting
or territorial adult or unfledged juvenile piping plovers or
terns from April 1 to August 31.

Fireworks should be prohibited on beaches where plovers or
terns nest from April 1 to August 31.

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Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife 13
Piping Plover and Tern Guidelines
21 April 1993

V. LITERATURE CITED

Blodget, B.G. 1990. The piping plover story. Massachusetts
Wildlife. 60(2):18-25.

. 1992. Results of the 1992 Massachusetts tern inventory.
Unpubl. report. Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and
wildlife, Westborough. 5 pp.

Burger, J. 1986. Factors influencing the long term survival of
the piping plover in New Jersey. Unpubl. report. New
Jersey Department of Fish, Game, and Wildlife, Trenton. 42
PP.

Gibbs, J.P. 1986. Feeding ecology of nesting piping plovers in
Maine. Unpubl. report. Maine Chapter, The Nature
Conservancy, Topsham. 21 pp.

Goldin, M.R. C.R. Griffin, and S.M. Melvin. 1990. Reproductive
and foraging ecology, human disturbance, and management of
piping plovers at Breezy Point, Gateway National Recreation
Area., New York. Progress report-1989. Unpubl. report.
University of Massachusetts, Amherst. 58 pp.

Hoopes, E.M., C.R. Griffin, and S.M. Melvin. 1992.
Relationships between human recreation and piping plover
foraging ecology and chick survival. Unpubl. report.
University of Massachusetts, Amherst. 77 pp.

Howard, J.M., R.J. Safran, and S.M. Melvin. 1993. Biology and
conservation of piping plovers at Breezy Point, New-York.
UnpUbl. report. University of Massachusetts, Amherst. 33
pp-

Melvin, S.M. 1992. Status of piping plovers in Massachusetts,
1992 summary. Unpubl report. Massachusetts Division of
Fisheries and Wildlife, Westborough. 14 pp.

j C.R. Griffin, and L.H. MAcIvor. 1991. Recovery
strategies for piping plovers in managed coastal landscapes.
Coastal Management 19:21-34.

-1 A. Hecht, and C.R. Griffin. 1993. Mortality of piping
plover chicks caused by off-road vehicles on Atlantic coast
beaches. Wildlife Society Bulletin., (in press).

Patterson, M. E. 1988. Piping plover breeding biology and
reproductive success on Assateague Island. M.S. Thesis.
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University,

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Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife 14
Piping Plover and Tern Guidelines
21 April 1993

Blacksburg. 131 pp.

Strauss, E. 1990. Reproductive success, life history patterns,
and behavioral variation in a population of piping plovers
subjected to human disturbance. Ph.D. Dissertation. Tufts
University, Medford, Massachusetts. 143 pp.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1988. Atlantic coast piping
plover recovery plan. U.S.Yish and Wildlife Service,
Newton Corner, Massachusetts. 74 @,-p. I

. 1989. Roseate tern recovery plan. Northeastern
population. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Newton Corner,
Massachusetts. 86 pp.

. 1992. 1992 status update, U.S. Atlantic coast piping
plover. Unpubl. report. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
Newton Corner, Massachusetts. 6 pp.

210

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I APPENDIX I
I Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
Recommended Conditions for Barrier Beaches
I
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I

Commonweafth of Massachusetts
ecutive Office of Environmental Affairs
Department of
Environmental Protection
VAlltarn F. Wold
Goww"M I
Danle! S. Greenbaum
CommWsiorw

June 30, 1993

RE: Wetlands Act.Review for Activities on Barrier Beaches

Dear Interested Party:

The Secretary of Environmental Affairs established the Barrier
Beach Task Force, chaired by the Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management
Office (MCZM), to identify issues of major concern and develop
recommendations for managing these sensitive coastal areas in the face
of competing interests and uses. In conjunction with this effort, the
Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has developed the
attached "Recommended Conditions for Activities on Barrier Beaches" as
guidance to conservation commissions, beach managers, and other
interested parties in filing notices of intent and issuing orders of
conditions under the Wetlands Protection Act (MGL c 131 5 40). We
believe that these conditions offer appropriate protection for the
public interests associated with barrier beaches while balancing the
needs of competing users.

Purpose of this Guidance

Barrier beach systems are dynamic land forms that undergo
constant change and provide a variety of public benefits, including
recreation, fishing, and important wildlife habitat. Accordingly, the
Department recommends that barrier beach management plans be adopted
to protect and manage these important values. As a result of the work
of the Barrier Beach Task Force, MCZM is now finalizing "Guidelines
for Barrier Beach Management in Massachusetts" to assist in the
,development of such plans.

A number of beach owners and managers have developed, or are in
the process of developing, management plans and filing notices of
intent, as maybe appropriate, for certain activities on barrier
beaches. others have not yet begun the process. The attached
conditions are being issued in advance of the forthcoming Barrier
Beach Task Force guidance document in order that those already in the
permit process may be aware of the standards the Department would
expect to be incorporated in orders of conditions. our goal is to
ensure that when orders of conditions are needed, work can be approved
quickly and that ongoing activities are not unnecessarily disrupted by
the regulatory review process.

One VAnter Street*Boston, Massachusetts 021080FAX (6M SWI049 0 Telephone (617) 292-5500

212

June 30, 1993
Page 2

DEP has worked closely with interested groups to address the
conflicts that can arise from competing demands on barrier beach
resources. It became apparent through these discussions that
communication, coordination, and cooperation can resolve most
conflicts. However, the effort to reconcile the use of off-road
vehicles (ORVs) with the protection of rare and endangered wildlife
species and their habitats continues to generate debate. Sound barrier
beach management plans will help balance these interests. All parties
have expressed a desire to be as flexible as possible to
allow ORV and other uses while avoiding impacts to wildlife and
habitats. Still, specific situations may arise where ORV use will
have to be limited or prohibited at certain times - when wildlife and
their habitats are vulnerable during critical periods in their life
cycles. The attached conditions reflect the need to achieve such a
balance.

Activities to be Recrulated Under the Wetlands Protection Act

In cooperation with CZM and the Barrier Beach Task Force, DEP has
reviewed the types of activities that occur on barrier beaches and has
determined that, while it is important to include a broad range of
activities in barrier beach management plans, not all of these
activities are subject to the Wetlands Protection Act. DEP recommends
that the following activities and projects be included in notices of
intent (NOIs) as well as management plans because they are appropriate
for review under the Wetlands Protection Act (MGL c 131 S 40) and its
regulations (310 CMR 10.00):

9 construction of buildings, walkways, roads, parking areas,
and other facilities;

0 ORV use and access to Barrier Beaches (310 CMR 10.29), which
generally include Coastal Dunes (310 CMR 10-.28) and Coastal
Beaches (310 CMR 10.27);

0 beach nourishment and dune construction or restoration
projects; and

0 beach cleaning activities involving heavy equipment (e.g.
tractor).

A number of other activities that take place on barrier beaches
and which may be included in barrier beach management plans may not be
appropriate for review under the Wetlands Protection Act. These
generally are "passive" recreational activities that are not likely to
alter barrier beaches. They are managed best by the communities and
beach managers who have first hand knowledge of local conditions and
interests. Examples of activities that do not, in DEP's opinion,
require the filing of an NOI are: foot traffic, boating and horseback
riding. While DEP recognizes that concentrated or excessive use of a
particular area has the potential to adversely affect part of a
barrier beach, the general experience has been that these activities
do not have adverse impacts and therefore are not subject to review
under the Wetlands Protection Act.

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June 30, 1993
Page 3

One activity not specifically addressed in the attached
recommendations is aquaculture activities. Efforts to evaluate
environmental impacts and consolidate permitting for coastal
aquaculture are ongoing. When these initiatives have been more fully
developed, supplemental conditions will be issued that cover
aquaculture activities as they relate to a number of regulatory
programs.

DEP defets to the scientific opinions of the Natural Heritage
and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) in determining the location and
extent of actual habitat of state-listed rare species. DEP also
relies on NHESP to determine whether a proposed activity will have an
adverse effect, whether short- or long-term, on the habitat of the
local rare species population. NHESP's opinion is presumed to be
correct and may be overcome only upon a clear showing to the contrary.

Barrier beach management plans may require modifications from
time to time in order to protect these sensitive areas adequately as
conditions change or when an unforeseen impact occurs. Plans should
be adopted, reviewed, and modified based on input from a variety of
local and state interest groups to ensure that all viewpoints are
represented.

I encourage you to review the attached'information when
developing and implementing barrier beach management plans and in
filing and reviewing notices of intent for certain activities
conducted under such plans. If you have any questions or need
assistance on these matters, please contact Robert Golledge, Wetlands
Protection Program Chief in the Division of Wetlands and Waterways at
617-292-5695.

Aimo@rely'

Greenbaum
commissioner

c.c. Christy Foote-Smith, Director
Division of Wetlands and Waterways

Jeff Benoit, Director
Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management
re@ G
CGe ree aun

214

Commonwealth of Massachusetts
ExecLftive office of EnWonmentai Affairs
Department of
Willam F. Weld Environmental Protection
Gavomor
Daniel S. Greenbaum

RECOMMENDED CONDITIONS FOR ACTIVITIES ON BARRIER BEACHES
June 1993

The best approach for writing an order of conditions for a particular
barrier beach is to look to the performance standards of the Wetlands
Protection Regulations (310 CMR 10.00) for each of the wetland resource
areas found on that barrier beach and make sure the order of conditions
addresses those performance standards.

For additional information on the background of the following
recommended conditions, please refer to the "Guidelines For Barrier
Beach Management In Massachusetts" published by the Massachusetts
Coastal Zone Management Office.

I. Recommended Conditions for Vehicle Management

A. Protection of Nests and Nesting Habitat

1. On beaches where vehicles will be driven, all areas of suitable
piping plover nesting habitat, as determined by the Natural Heritage and
Endangered Species Program (NHESP), shall be identified and delineated
with posts and warning signs or symbolic fencing on or before April 1 of
each year. Suitable nesting habitat for all species of terns shall be
identified and*so delineated on or before May 15 of each year.

2. All vehicular access into or through delineated nesting habitat
shall be prohibited except as provided elsewhere in these Conditions.
Prior to hatching, vehicles may pass by such areas along designated
vehicle corridors established along the outside edge of plover and tern
nesting habitat. Vehicles also may park outside delineated nesting
habitat, if beach width and configuration and tidal conditions allow.
Vehicle corridors or parking areas shall be moved, constricted, or
temporarily closed if territorial, courting, or nesting habitat are
disturbed by passing or parked vehicles, or if disturbance is
anticipated because of unusual tides or expected increases in vehicle
use during weekends, holidays, or special events.

30 June 1993 Page 1

One VAnter StreetsBoston, Massachusetts 021080FAX (617) 556-10490Telephone (617) 292-5SOO

215

RECOMMENDED CONDITIONS for BARRIER BEACHES (cont.)

B. Protection of Piping Plover or Tern Chick Habitat

1. Sections of beaches where unf ledged piping plover or tern chick
habitat exists shall be closed temporarily to all vehicles not deemed
essential.

2. 'When unfledged plover chick habitat exists, as determined by
NHESP, vehfcles shall be prohibited from all dune, beach, and intertidal
habitat within one hundred (100) yards of either side of a line drawn
through the nest site and perpendicular to the long axis of the beach.
The resulting ti@o hundred (200) yard-wide area of protected habitat for
plover chick habitat should extend from the ocean-side mean low water
line to the bay-side mean low water line, or to the farthest extent of
dune habitat if no bay-side intertidal habitat exists. However,
vehicles may be allowed to pass through portions of the protected area
that do not serve as actual habitat, as determined by NHESP, due to
site-specific conditions such as steep topography, dense vegetation, or
other natural ly-occurring obstacles. The boundaries of the protected
habitat shall be adjusted periodically to provide at least a one hundred
(100)-yard buffer between actual habitat and vehicles unless site
specific conditions allow for a reduction in this distance.

3. When unfledged least tern chicks occupy their habitat, vehicles
shall be prohibited from all dune, beach, and intertidal habitat within
100 yards of either side of lines drawn.through the outermost nests in
the colony and perpendicular to the long axis of the beach, unless site
specific conditions allow for a reduction in this distance. The
resulting area of protected habitat for least tern chicks shall extend
from the ocean-side low water line to the bay-side mean low water line,
or to the farthest extent of dune habitat if no bay-side intertidal zone
exists. If unfledged chicks move outside the identified habitat, then
the boundaries of the protected area shall be adjusted to provide at
least a one hundred (100) yard-wide buffer, as determined by NHESP,
between unfledged chick habitat and vehicles. However, vehicles may
pass through any portions of the actual habitat that are considered
inaccessible as outlined above.

C. Timing of Vehicle Restrictions in Piping Plover or Tern Chick
Habitat

1. Restrictions on use of vehicles in actual habitats where
unfledged plover or tern chicks are present shall begin on or before the
date that hatching begins and continue until chicks have fledged. For
purposes of vehicle management, plover chicks are considered fledged at
35 days of age or when observed in flight, whichever occurs first. Tern
chicks are considered fledged when they are capable of flight.

2. When piping plover nests are found before the last egg is laid,
restrictions on vehicles shall begin on the 26th day after the last egg

30 June 1993 Page 2

216

RECOMMENDED CONDITIONS for BARRIER BEACHES (cont.)

is laid. This assumes an average incubation period of 27 days and
providesa 1 day margin of error.

3. When plover nests are found after the last egg has been laid,
making it impossible to predict hatch date, restrictions on vehicles
shall begin on a date determined by 1 of 3 scenarios:

(a) If a plover nest found with a complete clutch is monitored
twice per day, at dawn and dusk (before 6:00 a.m. and after 7:00
p.m.), vehicle use may continue until hatching begins. Nests
should be monitored at dawn and dusk to minimize the time that
hatching may go undetected if it occurs after dark. Whenever
possible, nests should be monitored from a distance with a spotting
scope or binoculars to minimize disturbance to incubating plovers.

(b) If a plover nest is found with a complete clutch before
May 20 (the earliest recorded hatch date for piping plovers in
Massachusetts) and is not monitored twice per day, at dawn and dusk
(before 6:00 a.m. and after 7:00 p.m.), then restrictions on
vehicles should begin on May 20.

(c) If a plover nest is found with a complete clutch on or
after May 20 and is not monitored twice per day, at dawn and dusk
(before 6:00 a.m. and after 7:00 p.m.), then restrictions on
vehicles should begin immediately.

4. If hatching occurs earlier than expected or chicks are
discovered from an unreported nest, restrictions on vehicles shall begin
immediately.

5. If NHESP issues a notice that ruts have developed that may
adversely affect the actual plover habitat, or that vehicle impacts on
wrack are so severe that wrack must be allowed to accumulate naturally
prior to hatching, then restrictions on vehicles shall begin at least 5
days prior to the anticipated hatching date of plover nests. If a plover
nest is found with a complete clutch, precluding estimation of hatching
date, and if availability of wrack has been substantially reduced by
vehicle passage or if deep ruts have been created that reasonably could
be expected to impede chick movements, then restrictions on vehicles
shall begin immediately.

6. Restrictions on the use of vehicles in least tern chick habitat
shall begin as soon as hatching begins (as early as June 12).
Restrictions may begin later if, upon notice from NHESP, tern chick
habitat is not adversely affected by vehicles because of distance or
natural ly-occurring barriers such as intervening steep terrain, or dense
vegetation.

7. Areas of dune, beach, or intertidal habitat used as nursery
areas by unfledged or recently fledged tern chicks, as identified by

30 June 1993 Page 3

217

RECOMMENDED CONDITIONS for BARRIER BEACHES (cont.)

NHESP, should be delineated with posts, warning signs, or symbolic
fencing not later than June 21. All access by vehicles into posted tern
habitat shall be prohibited while unfledged or recently- fledged tern
chicks are present in these areas, until it is determined that use of
habitat by young terns has ended (i.e., young terns are no longer being
fed by adult terns).

D. Essential Vehicles

1. Essential vehicles, as defined by the Conservation commission
pursuant to "Guidelines For Barrier Beach Management In Massachusetts"
published by the Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management office, shall
travel on sections of beaches where unfledged plover or tern chicks are
present only if such travel is absolutely necessary and no other
reasonable travel routes are available.

2. Essential vehicles should travel through chick habitat areas
only during daylight hours, except in emergencies, and should be guided
by a qualified monitor who first has determined the location of all
unfledged plover and tern chicks.

3. All steps should be taken to minimize the number of trips made
by essential vehicles through chick habitat areas.

4. Use of open, 3- or 4-wheel motorized all-terrain vehicles
(ATVs) or non-motorized all-terrain bicycles is recommended whenever
possible for monitoring and law enforcement because of the improved
visibility afforded operators. Homeowners should consider other means
of access, e.g., by foot, water, or shuttle services, during periods
when chicks are present.

5. A written log should be maintained by the beach manager of the
date, time, vehicle number and operator, and purpose of each trip
through areas where unfledged chicks are present. Personnel who monitor
plovers and terns should maintain and regularly update a log of the
numbers and locations of unfledged plover and tern chicks on each beach.
Drivers of essential vehicles should review the log each day to
determine the most recent number and location of unfledged chicks.

6. Travel by essential vehicles should avoid the wrack line and
should be infrequent enough to avoid creating deep ruts that could
impede chick movements. If essential vehicles are substantially
reducing availability of wrack or are creating ruts that could impede
chick movements, use of essential vehicles should be further reduced
and, if necessary, restricted to only emergency vehicles.

II. Beach and Dune Restoration

30 June 1993 Page 4

218

RECOMMENDED CONDITIONS for BARRIER BEACHES (cont.)

1. There shall be no removal of existing sediment from, or
regrading of, coastal beaches (including tidal flats) for the purposes
of beach or dune restoration.

.2. In order to protect the barrier's ability to migrate landward,
sediment deposited through the overwash process shall not be removed
from the ovetwash fans located on salt marsh areas (see Storm Damage
Restoration Part V).

3. Where dune reconstruction occurs proximate to salt marsh,
siltation fencing shall be deployed and maintained at the work limit to
contain fill. Disturbance beyond the work limit will not be permitted.

4. Storm wrack shall not be d eposited on a salt marsh.

5. only indigenous plants and appropriate plant material shall be
used. 6. During beach cleaning activities, the applicant shall leave
sufficient wrack to provide a seed source for the beach and to protect
the wildlife habitat feeding function that the wrack provides to a
variety of shorebirds. Beach cleaning should be accomplished using a
rake in such a manner as to preserve the existing form, volume, and
grain size distribution.

III. Construction of Boardwalks And Elevated Walkways

1. Boardwalks and walkways should be elevated a minimum of 2 feet
from grade with spacing in-between the planking sufficient to allow the
passage of sunlight, but not to inhibit, where designated and
appropriate, handicap access.

2. Access for the construction of boardwalks and walkways shall be
provided in a location and manner that will not result in additional
alterations to wetland resources. The access route and method of
construction shall be as shown on the plan of record.

3. For piers, walkways, or necessary equipment in any marsh:

(a) No creosote-treated timber shall be used.

(b) To the extent possible, piling shall be driven. if
jetting is,required, displaced sand shall be raked smooth.

(d) No dredging material shall be placed on the marsh except
for material deposited for salt marsh restoration activities.

30 June 1993 Page 5

219

RECOMMENDED CONDITIONS for BARRIER BEACHES (cont.)

IV. Dredging

1. There shall be no openings allowed through barrier beaches
except for those projects that fall within the provisions and guidelines
provided in the Department of Environmental Protection's Wetlands
Protection Program Interim Policy 91-2, entitled "Criteria for
Evaluating and Permitting openings of Salt Ponds In order to Manage,
Maintain or Enhance Marine Fisheries."

V. Storm Damage Restoration

1. All storm restoration activities shall have no adverse impact
on actual Rare Species Habitat, as determined by NHESP, in foredune and
overwash areas. Replanting, installation and other restoration
activities in Rare Species Habitat shall be done in consultation with
NHESP.

2. The excavation of coastal beach (including the intertidal area)
f or replacement of sand in a dune or any other Resource Area is
prohibited.

3. When off-site sediment is used for storm damage restoration, a
sediment grain-size analysis of the proposed off-site material shall be
submitted to the Conservation Commission and DEP for review and approval
prior to construction and deposition. This analysis shall be performed
by a qualified professional. This off-site material shall be of a grain
size compatible to the existing sediment on the dunes-and beach.

4. Sediment deposited through overwash process onto the back side
of the barrier shall not be removed from the overwash area except where
necess.ary to address public safety. In all cases sediments shall remain
within the barrier beach system.

VI. Construction of Structures/Buildings

1. All habitable buildings shall be elevated above the one hundred
(100) year floodplain on pile foundations and inlaccordance with the
State Building Code (780 CMR 100.00) and Federal Emergency Management
Agency regulations.

2. All buildings on barrier beaches shall be constructed on pile
foundations at a minimum of two (2) feet above existing grade to allow
the movement of sand and sediments due to wave and wind action.

30 June 1993 Page 6

220

APPENDIX J

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
Wetlands Protection Program Interim Policy 91-2
"Criteria for Evaluating and Permitting
Openings of Salt Ponds in Order to
Manage, Maintain or Enhance Marine Fisheries".

221

Commonweartn oil Massacnuse*,ts
Executive Office of Environrnenia: Affairs
Department of
Daniel S. Greenbaum Invirionmental Protection

Wetlands Protection Program Interim Policy 91-2

Criteria for Evaluating and Permitting Openings of Salt
Ponds In Order to Manage, Maintain or Enhance Marine Fisheries

PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to clarify the Department's
position concerning when salt pond openings to. the ocean may be
allowed pursuant to G.-L. c. 131 �40, the Wetlands Protection Act
(the "Act"), and to give guidance to the issuing authority by
providing a process for the evaluation of a pond opening
proposal. This is an interim policy and is intended to allow the
Department to gather information and further evaluate the'effects
of pond openings.

REGULATORY STANDARDS

A salt pond opening is subject to the Act because it involves
activities which will alter, dredge, fill or remove resource
areas subject to protection under the Act. 310 CMR 510.33(3)
provides, generally, that pro)ects in and around salt ponds may
not have an adverse effect an the marine fisheries or wildlife
habitat of the pond. However, 310 CMR S10.33(4) provides that
"Notwithstanding the provisions of 10.33(3), activities
specifically required and intended to maintain the depth and the
opening of the salt pond to the ocean in order to maintain or
enhance the marine fisheries or for the specific purpose of
fisheries management, may be permitted." This provision
evidence& an intent on the part of the Department to-allow
projects "specifically required and intended" to maintain a salt
pond opening necessary to manage, maintain or enhance marine
fisheries.

310 CMR 510.33(4) is silent concerning its interaction with the
performance standards established under 310 CMR SS 10.27, 10'.28,
.10.29, 10-.32 and 10.55 for resourc6 areas typically encountered
around salt ponds. When the performance standards for these
resource areas are read literally it is difficult, if not
impossible, for pond opening projects to.satisfy the applicable
performance standards.

On* VAMW StreeteBoston, Massachusetts 021080FAX (617) $56-1049 Telephone (617) 292-SSOO

- ot..%,Ad P.PW

222

Wetlands Protection Program
Interim Policy 91-2
Page 2

ANALYSIZ

As "activities specifically required and intended to maintain thle
depth and opening of a salt pond" must necessarily include the
breaching of the pond's associated barrier beach (when the
opening is presently closed) and would result in impacts to
adjacent resource areas, it is the Department's interpretation
that the openings may be allowed under limited, controlled
conditions when certain prerequisites are satisfAied.

When the alteration of inland resource areas will result from a
salt pond opening undertaken in accordance with this policy, such
alteration may be permitted under 310 CMR S10.53(4). The issuing
authority may exercise its judgment to determine that a project
to manage, enhance or maintain marine fisheries, conditioned in
accordance with this policy, may improve the area's natural
capacity to protect the interests identified in the Act.

In order to give full meaning and effect to all regulatory
provisions, while protecting the interests of the Act, the
Department concludes that salt pond openings may be authorized by
the issuing atithority when:

a. the applicant demonstrates that the opening is necessary
to manage, maintain or enhance an existing or historically viable
marine fisheries and
b. c .onditions are imposed that prevent or minimize adverse
effects to Coastal Beaches, Coastal Dunes, Barrier Beaches and
any affected inland resource area to the greatest extent
possible. "Minimize", as used in this policy, has the same
definition as found at 310 CMR S10.23.

If the issuing authority concludes that such conditions cannot be
developed, then it must deny the project.

The Department has determined that since salt marshes have a high
level of functional value, As recognized by the level of
protection afforded this resource'area under the regulations,
Pond openinq projects must satisfy the standards at 310 CMR
S10-32(3)-

Under no circ=stances may a project be permitted which will have
any adverse effect on the specified habitat site of rare species
as identified pursuant to 310 CMR SS10.37 and 10.59.

REQUIREMENTS FOR PROJECT R M EW AND CONDITIONING

A. Applicant Must Show That Opening Is For An Approvable
Purpose

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Wetlands Protection Program
Interim Policy 91-2
Page 3

When the outlet of a salt pond which has supported a viable
marine fisheries becomes closed (either because the outlet
becomes filled in or its position shifts along the barrier
beach), it may be desirable to periodically open the outlet
artificially in order to manage, maintain or enhance the fishery.
The threshold finding the issuing authority must make is whether
the applicant has demonstrated that the primary purpose of the
pond opening is to manage, maintain or enhance marine fisher-Jes.
An applicant may propose activities to maintain the depth and
opening of an existing opening, or activities to re-open a closed
pond; provided the applicant demonstrates that the pond has been
opened in the past as a result of natural or man-made causes, and
that a viable fisheries in the pond presently exists or existed
in-the past.

The existence of a "viable fisheries" shall be determined by the
issuing authority using best professional judgment (after
.consultation with the Division of Marine Fisheries and the local
shellfish constable) and shall be based upon submitted
information. The existence of a viable marine fisheries and of
prior openings may be demonstrated by reliable, credible
information. The applicant may submit historical records,
including photographic evidence, or if no records exist, he/she
may submit an affidavit of one or more individuals made upon
personal knowledge.

If an applicant cannot demonstrate an approvable purpose,
enabling the issuing authority to make this threshold finding,
the issuing authority.must deny the project. For example, when
the intended purpose of a salt pond opening is to control
eutrophication,.or to reduce odor, the project would fall outside
of this policy and would not be allowed unless it met all of the
applicable performance standards of the regulations.

B. Permit conditions Must Minimize Adverse Impacts
If an applir-ant demonstrates an approvable purpose, the issuing
authority may permit the activity, provided conditions can be
imposed that will prevent orminimize adverse effects to resource
areas (except salt marshes) in and around the pond to the
greatest extent possible. If conditions adequate to prevent or
.minimize adverse effects cannot be imposed, an order of
Conditions allowing the opening should not be issued.

Proposed salt pond openings for which the applicant has
demonstrated an approvable purpose should be evaluated in the

224

wetlands Protection Program
interim Policy 91-2
Page 4

following manner:

1. Assess all impacts to affected resource areas and their
respective protected interests;
2. Develop conditions to prevent or minimize adverse
effects to existing resource areas to the greatest extent
possible, in accordance with the applicable regulatory
provisions; and
3. Allow the opening if the project: a) does not have
unacceptable adverse effects upon any'interests of the Act, and
b) maximizes fisheries resource maintenance, enhancement or
management and c) prevents or minimizes adverse effects so that
the project, overall, contributes to those interests.

INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS

The Notice of Intent (NOI) should document that the project is
necessary to manage,,maintain or enhance marine fisheries; and
provide baseline information on all resource areas which will be
affected by the project. The information provided should be
sufficient to allow the issuing authority to assess impacts to
these resource areas'. Each proposed opening is unique and the
level of information required to assess impacts and impose
appropriate conditions necessarily will vary. The issuing
authority should require the level of information appropriate to
the particular project.

At a minimum, the applicant should submit information:
a. describing the history of pond openings and its use as a
fishery, and the proposed plan for fisheries resource
management, enhancement, or maintenance;
b. delineating all affected resource areas and identifying
short- and long-term impacts to affected resource areas and
their affected interests.
c. describingthe location of, and impacts on, public and
private water supplies in the pond's vicinity;
d. assessinel wildlife habitat, including the presence of
rare species habitat in accordance with the applicable
procedures at 310 CMR SS10.37, 10.59 and 10.60; and
a. describing the history of storm events in the immediate
area of the pond and impacts of the events on existing
resource areas.

In certain instances, the information presented will indicate
that'no number of conditions will adequately prevent or minimize
adverse effects so as to adequately protect the interests of the
Act. For example, salt water intrusion may contaminate water

225

Wetlands Protection Program
interim Policy 9!-2
Page 5

supplies to unacceptable levels and no alternative source may be
available. It may not be possible to condition a project so that
there will be no adverse effect of specified habitat sites of
rare species. In such instances, the project should be denied.

MINIMUM CoNnITIONS

Certain conditions will always be necessary to prevent or
minimize adverse effects. For example, material excavated frcm
the channel opening should not be removed from the barrier beach.
Material should be stockpiled on site and placed, within the
barrier beach system as appropriate - Any sediment lost due to
excavation and scouring should be replenished to the barrier
beach system. A time schedule for pond openings should be
included in any Order of Conditions. The schedule should take
into*account tide fluctuations, impacts on wildlife habitat of
fluctuating water levels and exposure in inclement weather, storm
forecasts and the potential presence of rare or endangered
species in the area. Disturbance of-
vegetation should be minimized to protect dune stability.
Replication of any Bordering vegetated Wetlands altered directly
.or by vegetative dieback should be required where possible,
particularly within the area exposed by pond lowering, if the
area does not naturally revegetate after two growing seasons.
conditions protective of actual or potential water supplies
should be incorporated.

Specific monitoring provisions should be incorporated into the
Order of Conditions to track the impacts of the.opening on the
interests of the Act.. Reports on all monitoring should be
submitted to the conservation commission and the Department and
reviewed by the issuing authority to determine whether any change
in conditions and methods of data collection is.warranted to
protect the interests of the Act. Conditions should include a
Provision authorizing the discontinuation of the pond openings,
if necessary, to protect the interests of the Act.

Finally, note that projects permitted under this policy may still
need to obtain a license pursuant to G.L. c. 91, the Waterways
Act, and re2ain subject to applicable terms of any restriction
order adopt*cV under G.L. c. 131 j40A, Protection of Inland
Wetlands, and-G.L. c. 130 S105, Protection of Coastal Wetlands.

Date:
Christy F@te-Smith, Director
Division of Wetlands and Waterways
Department of Environmental Protection

226

I
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I APPENDIX K
I Access for the Physically Challenged
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1

Access for the Physically Challenged

Applicable laws and regulations include the federal Americans with
Disabilities Act of 1990, the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards at 40 Code of
Federal Regulations 101-196, and the corresponding state laws, Mass. General
Laws Chapter 22, �13A and its regulations 521 Code of Massachusetts Regulations.
The Architectural Access Board has the responsibility for enforcing the Americans
With Disabilities Act at the state level. The Massachusetts Office on Disability has
the responsibility to provide technical assistance and guidance for compliance with
the Americans With Disabilities Act at the state level. Outdoor recreation
facilities at barrier beaches should, where practical, be designed to be accessible to
the greatest number of people as possible.

Definfflon

The federal government defines accessibility as: "Accessible programs or
facilities must offer the person with disability an opportunity to achieve
experiences similar to those offered others. Consideration should include persons
with mobility, visual, hearing, speech, and/or developmental impairments. Facilities
must be designed so that they can be approached, entered, and used by persons
with disabilities. An accessible facility must provide the person with a disability a
place to park, accessible routes, entrance to buildings, restrooms, water and the
services offered other visitors. Newly constructed or renovated facilities must
comply with the "Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards," 41 Code of Federal
Regulations 101-196.
Programs and services should be offered to the widest range of visitors,
including disabled persons, within an integrated setting. This should include
vendor services, interpretive programs, publications and educational signage and
brochures.
To ensure accessibility, provide:
1) Diversity of recreational experience to varying skill levels;
2) Involve persons with disabilities in planning and design;
3) Achieve the optimal mix of facilities and services appropriate to
the geographic area;
4) Provide an integrated access setting; and
5) For federally funded projects, research and comply with the
appropriate accessibility standards which are the Uniform Federal
Accessibility Standards, the Americans with Disabilities Act
Accessibility Guidelines, and the rules and regulations of the Mass.
Architecture Access Board. This applies to all new construction,
alteration, and reconstruction.

228

Strakgic Approach to Planning and Design

Principles to Guide the Development of a Handicap Access Plan include:

1) Preserve natural integrity of site;
2) Provide optimal access for site;
3) Develop holistic access plan;
4) Integrate disabled and fully mobile access where possible;
5) Use a participatory design process;
6) Use common signage based on level of accessibility;
7) Use common sense;
8) Identify and meet your legal requirements; and
9) Get a good legal definition of disabled.*

The Americans With Disabilities Act, section 3 defines "disability" as: "a) a
physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the
major life activities of such individuals; b) a record of such on impairments;
or c) being regarded as having such an impairment."

Steps to Guide the Development of Handicap Access Design

In steps 1 and 2 of this approach you are characterizing your beach in terms
of appropriate access sites. In some cases, areas of special environmental concern
may also be developed. In these cases the site must be made accessible to the extent
it does not further endanger the site.

1) Identify key characteristics and areas of special environmental concern on
the beach, such as:
* High Energy Zones
* Habitat for Endangered Species
e Repeat Overwash Areas
9 Topography
2) Define sites on the barrier beach according to the level of human
modification:
0 Developed - includes public structures, and open areas,
administration, parking, interpretive and visitor services. These sites
must be built or renovated to accommodate persons with disabilities.
0 Undeveloped - no deliberate alteration. These sites will not
normally be changed and no special facilities be provided for the sole
purpose of access for disabled persons.
9 Threshold - these areas include overlooks, trails-, exhibits and
special features reached by short trails from developed to undeveloped

229

areas. These areas should be judged on a case-by- case basis
considering topography, environmental sensitivity, degree of
development and alternative recreational experiences.
3) With both I and 2 identified at each potential site then determine what
level of accessibility is appropriate at the site;
0 Accessible - Meets or exceeds Uniform Federal Accessibility
Standards requirements. All programs and services are fully accessible
for the majority of disabled persons.
- Challenge Level 1 - More difficult but generally meets federal
requirements. Parking, and all other facilities and interpretive
programs are fully accessible. Grades and surfaces may be more
challenging. Some assistance to the disabled may be necessary.
* Challenge Level 2 - Most difficult. Buildings should be accessible.
Grades and surfaces have not been severely altered in order to
preserve natural setting. Safety features are part of the design.
Limited mobility persons may need assistance and severely disabled
persons would not be encouraged to use facilities without assistance.
4) Once natural features, development and level of accessibility for each site
is determined then the appropriate architectural standards can be applied.
Comprehensive standards can be found in the Uniform Federal Accessibility
Standards. Here is a brief overview of features of accessibility which have
specific architectural standards:
� Parking including spaces, access aisles, ramps;
� Access Routes - from parking to facilities, within facilities,
connecting accessible sites, widths, turning areas, passing areas,
surfaces;
0 Entryways - connected by accessible routes, to public
transportation, parking. New construction requires at least one
principal entrance at grade level should be accessible. In,altered
buildings at least one entryway should be made accessible. A building
serving a variety of transportation modes should provide one
accessible entryway for each. It is preferable for emergency purposes
that all entryways be accessible;
o Ramps - Accessible: ramp required if slope is steeper than 1:20
(5%), Maximum ramp slope 1:12 (8.3%) with a five foot level rest
area every 30 feet. Challenge Level 1: ramp required if slope is
steeper than 1:12 (8.3%), flatter preferred. Challenge Level 2: ramps
generally not used at this level. Slopes greater than 1:12 are generally
not usable for persons in wheel chairs without assistance;
o Trails - no specific standards, only recommendations, including the
following considerations: slope, surface, signage, passing space, and
rest areas;
o Signage - all directional, interpretive and educational signage shall
consider all types of disabilities.
5) Maintenance and Operations Plan - develop seasonal maintenance
schedule - monitor sites to ensure accessibility.
Sample Activity: swimming - to take place on beach and shore - issues

230

you should address include, access to place and the waters edge.
Pathway from Parking to Beach over Dune - Provide a firm
stable path such as wood plank 4-5 ft. wide. Ramps to go over dunes
should meet all ramp requirements for slope, not greater than 1:12,
rest areas, turning, rails etc. An appropriate minimum height above
dune grade for disabled persons ramps is at least 2' with greater
heights possible where extended ramps can be accommodated.
Spacing between planks should be no greater than 1/2". All structures
should meet Federal Emergency Management Agency and State
Building Codes.
* Provide a 4' X 4' leisure area - stabilize sand with wood
planking and provide pathway to the area.
* Pathway from beach to water - Stabilized sand or wood plank
minimizes impact to beach while still providing good access. A
wooden boardwalk built in sections can be used seasonally-
Entering the Water - Provide handrails 30-34" high and sloped
curb along edge of platform to gently stop wheelchairs. A rubber mat
on sand can improve access.

Contacts

For more information on handicapped access requirements, contact:
U.S. Architectural & Transportation Barriers Compliance Board
1111 18th Street, N.W., Suite 501
Washington, D.C. 20036-3894
(202) 653-7834 v/TDD
(202) 653-7863 FAX

Architectural Access Board
Room 1310
One Ashburton Place
Boston, MA 02108
(617)727-0660, voice or TDD
1-800-828-7222

Massachusetts Office on Disability
Room 1305
One Ashburton Place
Boston, MA 02108
(617)727-7440

231

References

Americans with Disabilities Act
Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities
Publication No. 17174-87-500-8/92

Document A117.1-1980
Design Standards American National Standards Institute
1430 Broadway
N.Y.,N.Y. 10018

Design Guide for Accessible Outdoor Recreation
Interim DRAFt for Review
U.S. Forest Service
,Auditors Building
201 14th Street, S.W. at Independence Ave., S.W.
Washington, DC 20250
Attention: Access Coordinator, Recreation Staff

232

I
I
I APPENDIX L
I Bibliography
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I

Ackerman, Jerry. 1987. Plan would protect beaches, marshland along Massachusetts
coast. Boston Globe. April 15, 1987, p.73.

Anderson, Charles M. and Hilda W. Anderson. 1979. Flood emergency and
residential repair handbook. Washington DC: Federal Emergency Management
Agency (GPO).

Anderson, H.R. and LA. Appel. 1969. Geology and Groundwater Resources of
Ocean County, N.J. Special Report 29 prepared by the U.S. Geological Survey for
the U.S. Dept. of Conservation and Economic Development, Division of Water Policy
and Supply, 93 pp.

Anderson, Lee G. and Christopher Kellogg. 1976. Economics of storm protection.
Newark, DE: Univ. of Delaware, College of Marine Studies. Delaware Sea Grant
technical report, Del-SG-2-76.

Anderson-Nichols & Co., Inc. 1980. Investigation of coastal storm and erosion
damage at five sites, Marblehead, MA. Draft report, Feb. 25, 1980. unpub. (available
at Mass. Coastal Zone Management).

Associated Press. 1987. Horseneck chosen to lead way in overhaul of state beaches.
Dartmouth, MA. July 23, 1997.

Associated Press. 1987. Panel: Plans must be made for rising seas. Washington, DC.
September 19, 1987.

Associated Press. Sea level rise could be devastating, say researchers. Philadelphia,
n.d.

Baldwin, Malcolm F. and Dan H. Stoddard, Jr. 1973. The off-road vehicle and
environmental quality. Washington, DC: The Conservation Foundation, 2nd ed., 61p.

Barrier islands and beaches. 1976. Technical proceedings of the 1976 Barrier Island
Workshop, Annapolis MD, May 17-18, 1976. Washington, DC; 'Me Conservation
Foundation.

Bascom, W. 1964. Waves and Beaches. NY: Doubleday and Co., Inc.

Baumgaertner, Imre V. 1975. A major beach erosional cycle at Robert Moses State
Park, Fire Island, during the storm of 1-2 December 1974: confirmation of
"grazing-swash undercutting" as a major beach erosional mechanism. In: Wolff, M.P.
(ed.). N.Y.S.G.A_ Guidebook, 47th Annual Meeting., Hofstra Univ., p. 259-278.

Behrens, E.W., et.al. 1975. Effect of vehicular and pedestrian traffic on backshore
vegetation and dune development: beach impact study, Padre Island National
Seashore. Univ. of Texas Marine Institute, 50 p. (available from: National Park
Service. Southwest Regional Office. P.O. Box 728. Santa Fe, NM).

234

Benedict, Mark A- 1979. The preparation of an off-road recreational trail map of
the Provincelands, Cape Cod: procedures, observations and managements uggestions.
National Park Service Cooperative Research Unit Report No. 27. Amherst:
University of Massachusetts.

Bigford, Tliomas E. 1987. The implications of relative sea level change on coastal
decision-making. Renewable Resources Journal, 5(3):5-7 (Summer 1987).

Bird, E.C.F. 1969. Coasts. Cambridge, MA: M.I.T. Press.

Black, John A- 1987. Barrier beach management, the Long Island experience.
Proceedings of the Fifth Symposium on Coastal and Ocean Management, May 26,
1987, Seattle, pp. 3209-3220.

The Blizzard of 1978: its effects on the coastal environment of Southeastern New
England. Proceedings. Boston: Boston State College, n.d., 114p.

Blodget, Bradford C. 1978. The effect of off-road vehicles on least terns and other
shorebirds. National Park Service Cooperative Research Unit Report No. 26.
Amherst: University of Massachusetts (NPSOSS).

Boston Herald American. 1959. Wed., Dec. 30.

Brodhead, J.M.B. and Paul J. Godfrey. 1977. Off-road vehicle impact in Cape Cod
National Seashore: disruption and recovery of dune vegetation. Intern. Jour.
Biometeorology, 21:299-306.

Brodhead, J.M.B. and Paul J. Godfrey. 1979. Effects of off-road vehicles on plants
of a northern marsh. National Park Service Cooperative Research Unit Report No.
33. Amherst: University of Massachusetts, 65p. (NPSOSS).

Brodhead, J.M.B. and Paul J. Godfrey. 1979. Effects of off-road vehicles on coastal
dune vegetation in the Province Lands, Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts.
National Park Service Cooperative Research Unit Report No. 32. Amherst:
University of Massachusetts, 212p. (NPSOSS).

Brown, Penny M. and Hilary Lambert Renwick, eds. 1983. New Jersey's barrier
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Yalden, D. W. 1986. The status of Golden Plovers in the Peak Park, England, in
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Yalden, P.E. and D.W. Yalden. 1990. Recreational disturbance of breeding Golden
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261

Literature cited in the
Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife Guidelines

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------ 1992. Results of the 1992 Massachusetts tern inventory. Unpubl. report.
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Goldin, M.R., C.R. Griffin, and S.M. Melvin. 1990. Reproductive and foraging
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Melvin, S.M. 1992. Status of piping plovers in Massachusetts, 1992 summary.
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------ C.R. Griffin, and L.H. MacIvor. 1991. Recovery strategies for piping plovers
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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1988. Atlantic coast piping plover recovery plan.

262

Newton Corner, MA: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 74p.

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1992. 1992 status update, U.S. Atlantic coast piping plover. Unpubt. report.
Newton Corner, MA: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 6p.

263

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I APPENDIX M
I Matrix
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f 265
1

COASTAL RESOURCE AREAS AND RECOMMENDED MANAGEMENT MEASURES

LAND COASTAL BEACHES COASTAL SALT LAND UNDER LAND CONTAINING RARE SPECIES STATE FED
ACTIVITY UNDER OCEAN INC. TIDAL FLATS DUNES MARSHES SALT PONDS SHELLFISH HABITAT ESA ESA

1. Armoring Structures page(s) 57, 110 40,110 45,110 49,110 55,110 51,110 60,110 66,110 64, 110
------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------- -------------------- --------------------- --------------------
2. Beach Cleaning 57,112-114,131 40,112-114,131 45,112-114,131 49,112-114,131 60,112-113,131 66,112-113,131 64,112-113,131
-------------------------------------------- I
--------------------------------------------- F@ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ -------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- L--------------------- ---------------------- --------------------- --------------------
3. Camping/Fires : 40, 77 45,77 60, 77 66, 77 64, 77
------------------------------ ------ -------- --------------- --------------------- ---------------------- --------------------- --------------------
-------------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- ------
4. Construction of 57,119-121 40,119-121 45,119-121 49,119-121 55,119-121 51,119-121 60,119-121 66,119-121 64,119-121
Public Facilities
� B ardwalks
A Poarking lots/roads
� Buildings
� Human control
tructures
� sandicapped
access
-------------------------------------------- -------- --------- --------------------------------------- --------------------------------- ----------------
------------- I I T-------------
5. Dredging/Beach 57,100-105 40,100-105 45,100-105 49,100-105,118 55,100-105, 51,100-105, 60,100-105, 66,100-105, 64,100-105,
Nourishment
-------------------------------------- --------------------- --------------------- ------------------ -------------------- --------------------- --------------------
--- 1------ 7-------------- --------------------
6. Dune Restoration 40,100-105,112 45,100-105,112 49,100-105,112 55,100-105,112 51,100-105,112 60,100-105,112 66,100-105,112 64,100-105,112
� Snow fencing
� Christmas trees
� Regrading
L------------------------------------------- I---------------------- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. Fireworks : 40, 84 : 45, 84 : 60,84 : 66, 84 : 64,84
-------------------------------------------- I -------- --------------------- --------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------- L--------------------
T------------- T--------------------- ------
8. Harvesting/Gathering 40,81 45,81 49,81
(plant material, seed)
-------------------------------------------- L--------------------- -------------------- --------------------- ------- -------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------- L--------------------
9. H rseback Riding/ 40, 82-83 45, 82-83 49, 82-83 51, 82-83 60, 82-83 66, 82-83 64,82-83
Noon-motorized
Transport
-------------------------------------------- --------------------- --------------------- ---- T--------------------- r---------------------- T--------------------- r--------------------
r--------------------- i-----------------
10. Hunting 40,72-75 45, 72-75 49,72-75 : 55,72-75 51,72-75
---------------------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------- -------------------- --------------------- --------------------
11. Kite-flying : 60, 76 @ 66 ; 64
-------------------------------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------- -------------------- 4--------------------- --------------------
12. Off-road Vehicles 40,87-95 45,87-95 49,87-95 51,87-95 60,87-95 66,87-95 64,87-95
� Recreational day
use/ chase vehicles
� Recreational
overnight (self-
contained campers)
� Shellfishing
� Cottage access
� Off icial/special use
� Finfishing
-------------------------------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------- -------------------- ------------------------------------------
13. Pedestrian 45, 73-76 49, 73-76 60, 73-76 66,73-76 64, 7a-76
Recreation (hiking,
birding, picnicking,
swimming, tinfishing)
------------------------------------------- r--------------------- --------------------- IT --------------------- --------------------- T--------------------- Ir -------------------- 11 --------------------- r' --------------------
14. Nuisance Control 49,122-123 55,122-123 51,122-123 60,122-123 66,122-123 64,122-123
� :nse ts
� nvacive exotic
plants
------------------------------------------- --------------------- ------------------------------------------- --------------------- --------------------- -------------------- --------------------- --------------------
15. Pets 40, 75 45, 75 49,75 60, 75 66, 75 64, 75
-------------------------------------------- r--------------------- --------------------- r--------------------- i--------------------- T--------------------- I-------------------- i--------------------- r--------------------
16. Planting 57,125-126,106-108 40,125-126,106-108 45,125-126,106-108 51,125-126,106-108 60,125-126,106-108
� Exotics
� Nonexotics
------------------------------------------- L------------------------------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------- -------------------- --------------------- --------------------
17. Shellfishing 57,76 40,76 49,76 55,76 51,76 60,76 66,76 64,76
� Commercial
� Recreational
� Aquaculture
------------------------------------------- --------------------- I--------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------- -------------------- --------------------- --------------------
18. Watercraft 40,79-80 45,79-80 49,79-80 55,79-80 60,79-80 66,79-80 64,79-80
� Jetskis
� Motorized boats
� Sailboards/surf
board
� Misc. personal
flotation devices

Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management

100 Cambridge Street

Boston, Massachusetts 02202

(617) 727-9530

CZM
NOAA

Printed on Recycled Paper

Guidelines for Barrier Beach Management in Massachusetts was pfinted by Massachusetts, Coastal Zone Management and
is funded by a grant from the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resources Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce. The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily
reflect the views of NOAA or any of its sub-agencies.

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