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Varn, (2006) Fundraising Assessment This report concludes a fund raising assessment for the New Hampshire Estuaries Project (NHEP). The purpose of the assessment was to evaluate NHEP’s ability to raise new dollars to fund its work and to identify which funding strategies have greatest potential. The assessment is based on research of relevant documents, and confidential interviews with individuals inside and outside of NHEP who could provide information and insight to the process. Interviews included all four NHEP staff members, seven members of the Management Committee, and 11 members of the community. The fund raising assessment considers: • Perceived NHEP strengths, weaknesses, and potential for fund development • Issues that would need to be addressed to increase funding • Best opportunities and strategies for fund development • NHEP readiness to succeed with recommendations

Anderson, (2000) Conservation Survey and Tax Map Digitizing The results of a Natural Resource Opinion survey conducted by Moose Mountains Regional Greenways (MMRG) are described. Approximately 6,000 were distributed in Wakefield, Brookfield, Middleton, New Durham, Farmington, and Milton and 10% were returned. Results indicated a population highly engaged in the outdoors and concerned about maintaining their area's rural character. Respondants appeared to be ill-informed about the actual issues involved, including tax-related issues and water resources. Digital tax maps were created for three towns, digital data converted for one town, and two towns had adequate digitized parcel data. Parcel data is in use by MMRG for conservation prioritization, prime wetlands investigations, and other natural resource projects.

Arcieri, (1998) Federal Funding Source Program Search This is the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) funding programs and the specific requirements of each program relevant to the NHEP as reported by Great Bay Environmental Consulting. A list of relevant grant programs by topic is also provided. This information is found in the NHEP Management Plan.

Ayotte, (2003) Arsenic Contamination in Private Bedrock Wells in Southeastern New Hampshire The United States Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Service and the New Hampshire Estuaries Project, studied arsenic concentrations in private wells in southeastern New Hampshire. The following summarize the major findings: nearly one-fifth (19%) of private bedrock wells in southeastern NH contain concentrations of arsenic that exceed 0.010 milligrams per liter (the EPA standard for public water supplies); arsenic concentrations are similar in bedrock wells across Hillsborough, Rockingham, and Strafford Counties (however the spatial distribution of arsenic concentrations that exceed 0.010 milligrams per liter is variable and relates to geology); less than 14% of well owners have ever tested for arsenic. USGS recommended that well owners contact the New Hampshire Consortium on Arsenic by e-mail for questions and information on testing and health. (Various contact e-mails are given for different topics.)

Ballestero, (2003) Characterization of Groundwater Discharge to Hampton Harbor An environmental research group from the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of New Hampshire assessed intertidal groundwater discharge and nutrient loading in Hampton Harbor in 2003. The study of intertidal groundwater discharge zones suggests that intertidal groundwater discharge is extremely limited in Hampton Harbor due to the presence of a large impermeable salt marsh. Numerous sites were located, and all but one had salinities greater than 21 ppt. With salinities that high, these sites were deemed locations of saltwater pumping rather groundwater discharge. Hampton Harbor is characterized by shallow glacial deposits akin to a barrier system coastal feature and has over 5,000 acres of contiguous salt marsh. A review of land use and land cover, for both of these settings showed a nearly complete correlation between the salt marsh and absence of groundwater discharge zones and a positive correlation with the residential/commercial land cover classification. Deeper offshore discharge testing was recommended as well as investigation of discharge from the exterior of the marsh for a possible saltwater wedge.

Barnaby, (1999) Restoration of Clam Habitat in the Seabrook/Hampton Estuary The UNH Cooperative Extension and Sea Grant, along with the Jackson Estuarine Laboratory (JEL), report their project on the restoration of clam habitat in the Hampton/Seabrook Estuary through the removal and relocation of mussels that had colonized the clam flat. The report includes documentation of clam flat condition before and after mussel removal. Methods included clam and mussel assessment, pilot mussel transplant, and mussel removal and relocation. JEL's custom-designed mussel rake proved effective in removing mussels for relocation and will be used in the future.

Barrington, (2002) Highland Avenue/ Brown Avenue Tide Gate Replacement The Town of Hampton reports its work with NHDES to install a self-regulating tide gate off Highland Avenue to allow freshwater to leave the marsh. This was done in order to protect adjacent homes from flooding and allow tidal inflow to restore the area to health as a viable salt marsh. The objective for the project was two-fold; in addition to providing adequate freshwater runoff, restoration of the salt marsh was needed to eliminate invasive plant species and reduce mosquito populations. NHDES upgraded the size of the culverts crossing under Brown Avenue and Highland Avenue and installed a self-regulating tide gate. Hampton Public Works will monitor the tide gate to assure no blockages from debris occur. Hampton planned on having similar systems installed in other communities to reduce flooding and increase salt marsh nourishment.

Barstow & Schlenker, (2007) Wakefield Land Conservation Education & Outreach Project The Town of Wakefield, a participant in the 2005 Natural Resources Outreach Coalition program, received an implementation grant from the NHEP to support land conservation efforts. The Wakefield Land Conservation Group conducted a survey of voters to better understand opinions of using public funds for land conservation, after a very close town vote. The Land Conservation Group used information from the survey to guide subsequent education and outreach efforts that included contacting land owners and producing and distributing a brochure.

Beal, (2006) Juvenile soft-shell clam, Mya arenaria L.research in the Hampton-Seabrook Estuary A series of field experiments was conducted at two intertidal sites in the Hampton-Seabrook Estuary from November 2004-2006 to assess the efficacy of enhancing intertidal areas with cultured clam (Mya arenaria L.) seed (mean shell length[SL] = 7-10 mm). Measurement variables in each experiment included survival and growth of both cultured and wild seed clams. The first of three trials (November 2004 -May 2005) examined the interactive effects of size of planting area (4, 8, 12 and 18 square meters) and predator deterrent netting (none, 4.2 mm, and 6.4 mm aperture [flexible, plastic netting]) at the Willows Flat in the Hampton River. The second trial (June -October 2005) examined the effect of predator deterrent netting at two discrete intertidal locations at the Willows Flat. The third trial (April - November 2006) replicated trial two except at two intertidal sites within the estuary approximately 3 km apart. Results from the study, together with those from a previous, smaller-scale investigation in the same estuary (Beal, 2002) suggest that clam enhancement can be successful as long as netting is properly deployed and maintained through regular inspections. Seeding should occur in early spring (late March or April of Year I) when seawater temperatures are below 10 degC. Animals should be seeded at densities between 500-1000 individuals per square meter (ca. 50-100 individuals per square foot) and then covered with a plastic, flexible netting with an aperture size of 4.2 mm. Because predation in the estuary is so intense and affects all but the largest sizes of clams, nets should be maintained in situ as long as possible, perhaps as long as it takes the shellfish to attain harvestable sizes (50.8 mm SL, or 2-inches). A large proportion of these animals will be ready for harvest by October or November in Year II.

Beal, (2005) Large-scale, manipulative field tests involving cultured and wild juveniles of the soft-shell clam The results of the first two experiments conducted by Dr. Brian Beal from the University of Maine Machias to test the effects of protective mesh netting and seeding on growth and survival rates for juvenile clams are discussed. The experiments were conducted at two different times of the year (November 2004-May 2005 and June-October 2005). From November 2004 to May 2005, clam survival was nearly 90% in plots protected with the smallest aperture netting, and this was three times greater than survival in plots protected with 6.4 mm mesh netting. Few animals were recovered from plots that were not covered fully with plastic netting. Overall, enhancement due to the predator deterrent netting was greater than 100-fold. Clam survival in the smallest size plots was significantly greater (by 30%) than those in the three larger sized plots. The growth rate of clams was 30% faster in plots protected with the smaller aperture netting. The experiment initiated in June 2005 will be repeated by Dr. Beal in 2006 due to mass mortality of those clams shortly after seeding.

Beal, (2002) Juvenile Clam Mortality Study at Three Intertidal Flats in Hampton Harbor, New Hampshire A series of benthic surveys concerning the decreasing adult clam population were conducted at three Hampton Harbor flats (Brown’s Flat, Common Island, and Middle Ground) by the University of Maine at Machias. The studies were focused on the high mortality rate of yearling clams (age 7-12 months, 26-50 mm SL) as observed by harvesters. Two manipulative field experiments were conducted at each of the three intertidal sites to address some of these factors. A generalized completely randomized block design was employed from November 2001 to March 2002 and from March 2002 to July 2002 to determine the influence of tidal height, stocking density, predator exclusion, and spatial variation on the growth and survival of cultured (hatchery-reared) juveniles of Mya. In addition, information on wild spat was collected. Results suggest that winterkill due to ice and storms is minimal, but that clam losses due to physical scouring of the sediments and predators was relatively high. To help deter clam loss, flexible, plastic nets will aid in keeping predators away. In addition, experiments concerning the effect of harvesting on juvenile clams and longer term studies on clam growth should be initiated.

Bellantone, (1999) Odyssey School: Hampton Storm Drain Outflow Report The Odyssey School in Hampton, New Hampshire (a mostly court-ordered school for students who have had difficulty in public school) evaluated fecal contamination from five stormwater outflows in the Hampton/Seabrook Estuary and reported their results. Their project consisted of two parts: collecting water sampling data from the designated outflow pipes leading to Hampton Harbor; and developing an on-going sampling project. The general conclusion was that the water quality of Hampton Outflow was poor. The mean fecal coliform count was between 66cts/100mL and 375cts/100mL. For future projects, Odyssey School recommended a member of DES work closely with the teams to help them interpret data.

Bird, (2004) Dover Natural Resource Mapping and Community Outreach Initiative The Dover Open Space Committee reports three activities they organized at three events in 2004 (Apple Harvest Day Festival Information Booth in Dover {10/2/04}, Fall Foliage Walk in Dover {10/16/04}, and Preserving Rural Character Through Open Space Subdivisions Workshop {11/15/04}.) Maps were printed and distributed at the Apple Harvest Festival and through direct mailings to Dover citizens. Approximately 900 maps were printed. The Open Space Committee conducted many site walks and took many photos of properties. A land conservation library and bookshelf was created in the Dover Planning Department.

Bogen, (1998) State of the North Mill Pond, Portsmouth, NH The Advocates for the North Mill Pond (ANMP) report a project designed to identify pollution sources and document the natural resources around the North Mill Pond in downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Shoreline conditions, potential pollution sources, and estuarine habitats were studied. Data concluded that the south end of the pond had the worst degradation in terms of eutrophication, sewage contamination, and general pollution. Algal mats were found to contribute to excesses of nutrients. Future testing was recommended to detect pollution into North Mill Pond.

Bolster, (2005) Educational Programming in Exeter and Dover on Board the Gundalow Captain Edward H. Adams The Gundalow Company's educational programming in Dover and Exeter is discussed. The project took place between May and November of 2005. Collaborative educational programs offered onboard in these two towns totaled nearly 3,000 people including youth and teen groups as well as the public during community events such as the Exeter Revolutionary War Festival. Gundalow staff developed partnerships with eleven coastal organizations in both towns, providing meaningful expansion to the 2005 schedule. The Gundalow Company plans to return to both towns in the future having reached new age groups (from kindergarten-aged children to senior citizens) and also having received excellent attendance in both ports.

Bolster, (2004) 2004 Water Quality Education Onboard the Gundalow The Gundalow Company (GC) reports its annual water quality education program offered aboard the replica gundalow Captain Edward Adams. This project included the development of an expanded GC education program curriculum to include contemporary water quality issues and future stewardship responsibilities. The NHEP grant also supported the GC's efforts to bring the gundalow to Durham and Newmarket. GC noted the increasing importance of volunteers in the program and discussed establishing annual volunteer training sessions.

Bolster, (2003) Evaluation of Effects of Wastewater Treatment Discharge on Estuarine Water Quality The results of a two-year project by the NHDES observing and estimating the effects of Wastewater Treatment Facilities (WWTFs) on estuarine water quality in the Seacoast region are reported. Nine WWTFs in New Hampshire and two in Maine were evaluated in the study, each included in a database of bacterial and nutrient concentration as well as discharge into the Great Bay and Hampton/Seabrook estuaries. Sewer infrastructure investigations were conducted and several concerns were reported. No significant nutrient impacts were found. A strong relationship was found between peak discharges and time of year (highest in March and April.) Overall, the present treatments are effective at minimizing water quality impacts from bacteria. However, concerns remained about sewage and stormwater infrastructure. NHDES stressed upgrading aged infrastructure in urban areas as the highest priority for improvement in the coming years.

Braun, (2007) Review of Northwood's Stormwater Management Regulations Stone Environmental, Inc. provided assistance to the Town of Northwood through the NHEP Community Technical Assistance Program. The consultant reviewed Northwood's existing regulations and compared the Town's development rules to 20 model development principles developed by the Center for Watershed Protection. Revisions suggested to Northwood's development ordinance, subdivision regulations, and site plan review regulations are intended to improve stormwater management and water quality in the community. In addition, Stone Environmental identifies several new ordinances for the Town to consider as part of a comprehensive stormwater management approach, including a buffer protection ordinance, illicit discharge prohibition ordinance, post-construction stormwater control ordinance, pet waste ordinance, and an ordinance banning phosphorus fertilizers.

Braun, (2007) Review of Durham's Regulations Related to Stormwater Management Stone Environmental, Inc. provided assistance to the Town of Durham through the NHEP Community Technical Assistance Program. The consultant reviewed Durham's existing regulations related to stormwater management and compared the Town's development rules to 20 model development principles developed by the Center for Watershed Protection. The consultant reviewed a Draft Stormwater Ordinance, originally developed for the Town in 2003, and recommended detailed changes to provide consistency with state and federal regulations and more recent approaches to stormwater management.

Braun, (2007) Impervious Surface Analysis for Durham Under Current and Build-out Conditions Stone Environmental, Inc. provided assistance in the area of stormwater management to the Town of Durham through the NHEP Community Technical Assistance Program. Part of the project involved calculating impervious surfaces under build-out conditions. The analysis used the 2005 impervious surface estimates developed by UNH Complex Systems Research Center and a build-out analysis previously completed by the Strafford Regional Planning Commission. Two scenarios were analyzed, with different assumptions about impervious surface ratios. In 2005, impervious surfaces in Durham accounted for 6.5% of land area. At build-out, impervious surface was estimated at 12.7% and 10.3%, depending on the ratio used.

Burdick, (2006) Development and Monitoring of Revegetation Methods:. . .in Awcomin Marsh The University of New Hampshire reports on a revegetation project and an assessment of a 2002 experimental cordgrass planting in Awcomin Marsh. Five classes in a Portsmouth elementary school participated in an effort to grow and plant high marsh and upper border vegetation at a salt marsh restoration site. Seeds of six marsh upper edge species were germinated and grown into seedlings by third grade students and planted by the students in late spring 2005, however only switchgrass and quackgrass plants appeared to have established and survived after one year. Mature shoots of three high marsh species (salt hay, salt grass and black grass) established successfully and continue to proliferate. The study also assessed an experimental cordgrass planting installed in 2002. After four growing seasons, Plug, Bare Root Shoot, and Seed Head planting techniques exhibited greater cover of cordgrass and total cover of vascular plants when compared with unplanted areas. Cover of perennial plants (e.g., cordgrass) dominated the planted plots; cover of annual species dominated the unplanted plots. Recommendations include the use of bare root shoot and seed head planting techniques where cordgrass is desired. Outside plots or a greenhouse may be needed for successful propagation of upper edge marsh species from seed, and a planting program that includes mature plants as well as seedlings is recommended

Burdick, (1997) Development of a Shoreline Checklist for Volunteers Assisting in Sanitary Surveys The Jackson Estuarine Lab at the University of New Hampshire designed a shoreline evaluation form, intended to provide a mechanism to objectively assess shoreline water and habitat conditions. The form was used by volunteers assisting in the sanitary survey of portions of Little Bay/Bellamy River. The survey was to be refined in areas of clarity, organization, and areas of relevance. It was recommended that the data collected from the new survey be inputted to the data base model used by the New Hampshire Estuaries Project (NHEP) and examined at three levels: characterization using pictorial or analytical elements; trends characterizing degradation or risk factors; and incompleteness to the point of zero value. Finally, the data should be made available to those inside and outside of NHEP.

Byers & Griffen, (2006) Spatial Patterns of Marine Larvae as Indicators of Incipient Invasions in Great Bay, NH The University of New Hampshire Zoology Department reports on a study designed to collect the baseline data necessary to establish patterns and make comparisons to future conditions. Researchers collected larvae on artificial settlement substrates at six sites within the Great Bay Estuary and at an adjacent coastal site during ice-free months since July 2002. The report gives a brief description of the results of this monitoring program to determine the species composition, spatial patterns, and timing of invertebrate settlement within the Great Bay. This report specifically includes data from April 2005 to June 2006, the portion of the project funded by NHEP.

Camp Dresser& McKee Inc, (2006) Water Reuse Feasibility Study The City of Portsmouth contracted with Camp Dresser & McKee to produce this study of the feasibility of providing 300,000 gallons per day(gpd) of reclaimed water from the Pease Wastewater Treatment Plant to the Pease Golf Course. Costs to implement such a project were estimated to be between $3.1 million and $4.5 million, depending on two municipal upgrade scenarios. An additional 80,000 gpd were considered for industrial use and estimated to cost an additional $1.1 million. The study concludes that at current wastewater treatment rates, the reuse of waste water in Portsmouth is not cost effective. The study does point out other benefits that are not captured with a straightforward financial analysis, such as the value of reducing the amount of nitrogen entering the Piscataqua River or the potential economic benefit of attracting high-water use companies to the Tradeport which will create jobs and increase the tax base.

Castallo, (2005) Bear Paw Regional Greenway-Comte Property Easement NHEP granted Bear Paw Regional Greenways (BPRG) $50,000 toward the total easement purchase price of $210,000 for an approximately 134 acre parcel of land in Nottingham owned by the Comte family. The Comte property is located on Cooper Hill Road, with public access from Route 4 in Nottingham. The conservation easement is held by BPRG. The NHEP’s funds were matched through $45,000 in landowner donation, $155,000 from the Town of Nottingham, and a $5,000 grant from William P. Wharton Trust Fund for a total of $255,000. The highlight of the property is a five-acre black gum dominated wetland, where three black gums were reported by the USDA Forest Service Laboratory in Durham to be over 500 years old.

Chase, (2002) Stream Assessments and Water Quality Monitoring in the Cocheco River Watershed Volunteer water quality monitoring and stream surveys in the Cocheco River by the Cocheco River Watershed Coalition (CRWC) are reported. Volunteers worked with equipment, training and guidance from the NHDES Volunteer River Assessment Program. They also tested water quality using macro-invertebrates and surveyed riparian land use, wildlife habitat and vegetative cover on small tributary streams in the headwaters and in urban Rochester and Farmington. Monitors observed considerable impairment of stream banks in the urban areas, especially the dumping of yard waste and trash. In Rochester they organized a cleanup, recruiting neighbors and youth to help. Monitors also found areas of pristine beauty and healthy trout habitat in the midst of Rochester on Axe Handle Brook, Hurd Brook and Willow Brook. Those areas should be protected from urban infringement. CRWC determined that local shoreline protection regulations are inadequate to protect the small streams in both Farmington and Rochester at present. The New Hampshire Shoreland Protection Act does not affect the streams surveyed except the Isinglass River.

Chase, (2000) Seacoast Science Center Contract Extension Report The Seacoast Science Center (SSC) provided services to oversee the NHEP from January 2000 through May 2000 while the project was without a Director. This is a discussion of their services, which mainly consisted of the final editorial steps required for EPA approval of the NHEP Management Plan. The SSC anticipated a continuing subcontract with PM Designs to assure efficient completion of future work. They also plan on continuing to help the NHEP with action plan implementation when appropriate.

Chase, (1999) Stormwater Control at the Allen School, City of Rochester he City of Rochester reports stormwater control measures taken to reduce erosion and sedimentation of the Cocheco Rive at the Allen Street School in Rochester, New Hampshire. Stormwater drainage flowed from Woodman and Granite Streets and Sheridan Avenue through the school grounds toward the River. With the help of the City of Rochester Public Works Department and the Cocheco River Watershed Coalition, teacher, student, and parent volunteers removed obsolete playground equipment from the school as well as pea stone, trash, and invasive weeds to uncover the stormwater drainage system. Stormwater runoff culverts were curbed to release water onto an existing vegetated swale north of the playground instead of on the footpath hills and the eroded access road on the school ground. Playground equipment was relocated above the flood plain. A display of the project and results was displayed at the Rochester City Hall. The project coordinator has been approached by other schools to use their work as a model for similar restoration projects.

Chase, (1999) NHEP Public Outreach Activities for FY 97 This report documents all public outreach activities for NHEP's second year. Included are two public conferences, two estuary tours for local decision makers, finalization of the shoreland property owners database, and the Seacoast Environmental Network Conference. The outreach programs worked toward a higher goal of implementing the NHEP Management Plan. Plans for year three included continued updating of the shoreland property owners database, organizing the public hearing and review process for the Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan, and publication of the State of the Estuaries report.

Chase, (1997) NHEP Year One Outreach Activities This is a written plan for the NHEP's outreach efforts provided by the Seacoast Science Center. The strategy includes a list of potential activities and audiences to be targeted by NHEP outreach efforts, which are intended to increase participation in NHEP Management Plan development. Included in the project was hiring an outreach coordinator (Jim Chase), increasing public involvement (newsletter, slideshow, display board, school painting contest, and support for volunteers), and the State of the Estuaries report. Included in future tasks to be completed are a database of estuarine shoreland property owners, a second New Hampshire Estuaries Conference, enhancing media presence, and a NHEP website.

Chormann, (2004) Availability of Ground Water Resources in the Piscataqua and Coastal Watersheds The New Hampshire Geological Survey, along with project partners, completed initial tasks of the data collection phase of the overall, multi-year project. Data collection activities included data mining activities, well inventories, and water use surveys in the study area.

City of Dover, (1999) Elimination of Bacterial Load to the Cocheco River The City of Dover documents work to identify and eliminate ten sewage cross connections to stormwater outfalls affecting the Cocheco River in Dover, New Hampshire. NHDES tested water quality samples for bacteria. Samples with high fecal coliform counts were suspected as having illicit sewer services in the drainage system. The goal was to remove at least six cross connections, but due to an extension granted on the project, ten were eliminated. Bacterial counts at discharge points into the Cocheco have dropped following the removal of the cross connections. However, the persistence of high counts at other locations led to the discovery of additional illicit connections, scheduled for removal in fall 1999. The City of Dover Utilities Division looked forward to working with NHDES Non-point Pollution Prevention again for future water quality projects.

City of Dover, (1997) Riverside Drive Restoration Project The City of Dover designed a project to correct the effects of severe stormwater erosion in a natural drainageway (off Riverside Drive) in close proximity to the Piscataqua River. A secondary goal of the project was to remove accumulated sediment that had built up in a tidal marsh along the River. The ravine created by erosion was severe (7-10 feet deep in some places.) Dover's City of Engineers Office prepared a design to stabilize the swale and remove the sediment from the marsh in 1995. Dover then applied for a Local Technical Assistance grant from NHEP, were approved, and began construction. The result was a halt on further erosion to the drainageway and sedimentation into the marsh. About a week after construction was finished, the new system held up exceptionally well to a heavy rain storm.

City of Portsmouth, (1999) Edmond Avenue Stormwater Management Project The Public Works Department for Portsmouth New Hampshire reports the implementation of a wetland restoration/stormwater management project on the Edmond Avenue Marsh in Portsmouth. The project was completed in conjunction with Swamp, Inc., a wetland contractor. A wetland permit was obtained through NHDES and a meeting with the Conservation Commission regarding the project revealed their unanimous support. Public Works found problems with low ground pressure equipment availability. They also feltl that it could be beneficial to place more emphasis on the biological functions of urban wetlands when designing stormwater systems as urban sprawl continues.

City of Portsmouth, (1997) Edmond Avenue Wetland Restoration Project The City of Portsmouth Public Works Department in conjunction with Swamp Inc. created a restoration project to ecologically and hydrologcially restore a severely degraded urban wetland in the city. This project involved developing a comprehensive long-term stormwater management plan for the Edmond Avenue fresh water wetland system, and implemented temporary steps to relieve wetland degradation from stormwater inputs to the wetland. Biofilters were designed to minimize sediment and pollution outflow to North Mill Pond and Piscataqua River. Portsmouth planned to use the project as a template for future such projects utilizing low ground pressure excavators to complete the activities started during the project.

Civilworks Inc., (1997) Design of a Walkway to Improve Salt Marsh Education on the Odiorne Farm Portion of the State Park Civilworks Inc. reports the Friends of Odiorne State Parks' planning and design of a handicapped-accessible walkway with viewing platforms. When constructed, the walkway would provide an "outdoor classroom" for marsh educational programs at the Seacoast Science Center. The design consisted of four platforms which could be added when deemed necessary, leading to a project that could be expanded as funds became available. The plans were feasible in that they enhanced a public education opportunity while preserving the salt marsh.

Clough, (2001) Septic System Workshops 2001 Granite State Designers and Installers (GSDI) reports three workshops they conducted in Dover, Portsmouth, and Hampton Falls. The workshops were attended by 132 citizens and covered septic system function and maintenance, and current alternative products. In general, the participants showed very little knowledge of septic systems and were eager for information. Based on the attendance and the nature of questions posed by participates, there is interest among citizens for more information on septic systems, and there is a need to reach the thousands of other home owners with septic systems.

Cook, (1999) Piscassic Breeding Bird Survey In June, 1999, the Audubon Society of New Hampshire (ASNH) conducted a study of bird breeding habits on lands along the Piscassic River to enhance their understanding of bird distribution and productivity. ASNH hired George W. Gavutis Jr. to serve as project director. The team assembled under Gavutis logged about 80 hours, most of which was field time, and during which bird tape was played to look for the support of at least one of ten species. It was concluded that the year's drought was severe in southeastern New Hampshire (from Durham and Great Bay to the Massachusetts line). In addition, many abandoned beaver dams were discovered, and a low beaver population observed. This low population means that wetlands would need intensive lands management, which was proposed in the following areas (in order of priority): Piscassic Ice Pond; Piscassic River Corridor and Watershed; Little Brook Corridor and Watershed; The Fresh River upstream from Birch Road; The Fresh River's lower portion; and Beech Hill Brook headquarters. Finally, water quality in the Piscassic was of great concern, and ASNH recommended continued observation and maintenance of the river.

Cook, (1999) Draft Management Plan Development for Habitat Protection & Restoration The Audubon Society of New Hampshire (ASNH) outlines the development of action plans related to habitat protection and restoration for inclusion in the NHEP Management Plan. Using previous plans, specifically the technical characterization and the base program analysis, ASNH expanded the topics and compiled lists of studies, reports, and recommended actions. ASNH plans to continue working closely with NHEP to update plan development and stay on top of changes.

Cook, (1999) Development of Draft Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan This report documents the development of initial drafts for selected chapters of the NHEP's Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan (CCMP) as compiled by the Audubon Society of New Hampshire (ASNH.) Chapters on the following topics are included: Pollution Issues (Point Sources, Oil Spills, Air Quality); Coastal Natural Resource Issues; Habitat Restoration; Indicators of Environmental Quality; Recreational Opportunity Issues; and Economic Development Issues. The two main sources of information for the ASNH were the technical characterization and the base program analysis. ASNH recommended using the remaining funds from 1998's work to complete restoration projects in the coming year as well as continued partnership with The Nature Conservancy in developing the habitat sections of the CCMP.

Cook, (1999) Implementing Effective Land Stewardship Programs The Great Bay Resource Protection Partnership (GBRPP) reports their efforts to develop the capacity seacoast communities' capacity to be effective long-term protectors of habitat and conservation land. The project included educational workshops and technical assistance to coastal municipalities on how to develop and implement effective land stewardship and monitoring programs. GBRPP found a need for stewardship information on a regular basis as requested by workshop attendees and planned on developing future workshops as well as a refresher course for past attendees.

Couture, (2002) Stormwater Management BMP Report and Website The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) received funds in 2001 from the New Hampshire Estuaries Project (NHEP) to create a manual and a website of Innovative Stormwater Treatment Technology Best Management Practices. Based on Action Plan WQ-7, NHDES researched the effectiveness of stormwater treatment technologies in urban New Hampshire areas. As a result, a hard-copy manual was published in July 2002 and is available at the NHDES Public Information Center. The entire manual is also available online as was planned. The manual is located on the NHDES website at http://www.des.state.nh.us/wmb/was/manual/. The NHDES plans to update the manual twice a year to keep it updated for the public.

Cox, (2006) Little River Park, Phase Two Report The Town of Lee purchased the Mills property from the Estate of Gail Mills, on January 25, 2006, for a total of $134,200. The Town of Lee subsequently executed a conservation easement on the property. The Strafford County Conservation District holds the easement. The NHEP contributed $27,500 to this project. A total of 11.93 acres were permanently protected from development including 1,140 feet of shoreland along the Little River. The final report contains copies of the executed bill of sale and conservation easement.

Craig, (2004) Funding Sources for Key Water Quality Strategies NHEP's Water Quality Database contents as of June 2004 are reported. Two tables comprise this database: Table 1, which summarizes specific federal, state, and nonprofit funding programs whose objectives match Water Quality Action Plans from the Management Plan; and Table 2, which lists references, including web pages and electronic documents, which can serve as general resources for parties interested in implementing water quality protection and improvement goals. Information will be posted on the NHEP website.

Craig, (2003) Shoreland Property Owners Database Update in 2003 The NHEP's Shoreland Property Owners Database was expanded and updated in 2003 for utilization with a mailing to septic system owners. A recommendation was made to develop new methods to obtain mailing addresses and identify septic system owners.

Craig, (2003) 2003 Septic System Mailing The new Hampshire Estuaries Project (NHEP) reports on two mailings that were sent to shoreline property owners in the coastal watershed in 2003. The mailings targeted septic system owners in the NHEP's Zone A area with property that abuts tidal or fresh water bodies. Mailings were comprised of a cover letter, a septic owners file and guide, and a refrigerator magnet, flier, and window decal. The first mailing, sent in June 2003, went out to approximately 130 addresses in Durham as a trial mailing. The second mailing went out to 740 addresses throughout the rest of the coastal watershed Zone A area in July. Fourteen feedback postcards were received. Feedback about the mailing's usefulness was mixed. Several recommendations were made, but the most emphasis was on enhancing the mailing's educational content.

Degnan, (2004) Protecting Hampton Harbor Watershed Project he Rockingham County Conservation District's (RCCD) support of sustained technical and communication assistance to the Hampton and Hampton Falls conservation commissions is reported. The project helped advance the implementation of two significant land and resource protection projects within the Hampton Harbor Watershed. The educational efforts on land protection, conservation options, resource prioritization, funding opportunities, and the public relations information designed to support the passage of two significant local open space bonds generated much enthusiasm in both communities. The project leaders believe that the Towns of Hampton and Hampton Falls have significantly expanded their conservation capacity through this project.

Degnan, (2003) Spruce Swamp Protection Project The results of the Rockingham County Conservation District's (RCCD) efforts to provide significant educational efforts promoting land and water resource protection for Fremont and Brentwood are reported. The land/water area included over 2,500 acres. Four conservation information workshops were conducted in Fremont. Results included support for the passage of a prime wetlands designation warrant article in the Town of Fremont for specific areas in and around Spruce Swamp. RCCD with the assistance of staff from the UNH Cooperative Extension and the Society for the Protection of NH Forests facilitated the formation of an open space committee in Fremont and a proposed $4 million dollar open space bond authority for all of Fremont, rather than focusing only on the Spruce Swamp. Brentwood passed a $2 million dollar bond open space authority in March 2003. RCCD observed that many communities do not have the funds to acquire technical assistance. They recommended continued financial support by NHEP and other conservation organizations.

Degnan, (2002) Shoreland Protection Assistance Results of the Rockingham County Conservation District's (RCCD) natural resource inventory project are reported. The project was based within the coastal watershed and involved educating conservation commissions on conservation options through two workshops. In addition, two shoreland communities were provided sustained assistance to improve the local capacity to protect natural resources and implement permanent land conservation projects. Danville is pursuing several conservation projects, including establishing conservation easements for town-owned properties. The Town of Hampton Falls developed a conservation strategy and is pursuing permanent land protection projects with private landowners. It was concluded that the greatest asset to continuing such projects is technical assistance, which consequently is too expensive for many communities. RCCD recommended making these services more readily available, stating that further funding for projects will follow.

Degnan, (2002) Assessment and Recommendations for Bull Toad's Pond at Great Island Common - Part II The Town of New Castle in conjunction with the Rockingham County Conservation District (RCCD) reports an inventory/evaluation project of Bull Toad's Pond in New Castle, New Hampshire. Using existing historical data and wetland and stormwater analyses, RCCD determined the wetland restoration and ecological enhancements that would be most beneficial for the area. Results showed that salinity was fairly constant around Bull Toad's Pond, and there were not any nor'easters or other extreme storms. There was however a drought during the summer of 2002. New Castle, after receiving the results from the pore water salinity tests, planned to move forward with ecology restoration.

Degnan, (2001) Assessment and Recommendations for Bull Toad's Pond at Great Island Common - Part I The Town of New Castle worked in conjunction with the Rockingham County Conservation District (RCCD) on a project that inventoried and evaluated Bull Toad's Pond, located at Great Island Common in New Castle, New Hampshire. The original scope of the project was directed at a detailed analysis and review of existing available data, field determinations, and analysis of current conditions of Bull Toad's Pond. An additional purpose was to recommend alternative solutions for restoring the functions and values of this degraded salt marsh. RCCD noted that the second phase for wetland restoration would be detailed in design, permitting, and construction and would not be easy; if New Castle chose to go ahead with it, they would need to start cost estimation and permitting soon.

DHHS, (1998) Triennial Re-Evaluation: Sanitary Survey of Hampton Harbor The first official National Shellfish Sanitation Program survey for Hampton/Seabrook Harbor as conducted by The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is reported. A shoreline field evaluation was performed by DHHS assisted by the Office of State Planning's Coastal Program and Great Bay Coast Watch volunteers. Both actual and potential sources of pollution were identified. Water quality and Hydrography tests were also performed. DHHS recommends a mixture of approved, seasonally approved, and prohibited classifications in the conclusion of the report involving (but not limited to) the Hampton Harbor clam flats as well as educational efforts for homeowners.

Donlon, (2003) 2001 Coastal Illicit Connection Identification and Elimination Grant Project The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Service (NHDES) received funds in 2001 to administer grants to coastal municipalities to eliminate illicit discharges into their storm drainage systems. Three projects were funded under this grant. Projects in Exeter, Dover, and Somersworth involved eliminating numerous sewage discharges into storm drainage systems from houses, apartment buildings, and commercial buildings, as well as discharges to wetlands from floor drains in town garages. All of these efforts helped improve water quality in the coastal area by reducing pollution from bacteria, oil, grease, and heavy metals. NHDE recommended continued funding for illicit discharge remediation as well as financial assistance to emerging Phase II municipalities for testing. A more streamlined process to ease the flow of grants was also suggested.

Donlon, (2003) 2001 Coastal Municipal Stormwater Infrastructure Mapping Project The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) received funds in 2001 to provide assistance to coastal communities to develop storm sewer infrastructure maps. NHDES created maps of outfall pipes in several towns and administered grants to coastal municipalities to map their storm drainage systems. Outfall maps were created by NHDES for New Castle, Newington, Portsmouth, and parts of Durham and Madbury. Funds were awarded and grant projects were completed in Exeter, Hampton, Newmarket, and Somersworth. Seabrook completed the first phase of a grant project. Durham and Rochester forfeited grants awarded to them because the work could not be completed by the project deadline. Upon observing this, a longer contract period (in addition to more funds) was recommended for future mapping projects.

Donlon, (2003) 2001 Storm Drain Monitoring and Municipal Training Project The illicit discharges detection training workshops of New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) for municipal staff in coastal communities are described NHDES held two half-day training sessions in January 2003: one in Dover and one in Epping. Each training session offered four presentations from NHDES staff. Funding from the New Hampshire Estuaries Project paid for the printing costs of an illicit discharge detection and elimination manual, handout materials, and disks containing all of NHDES's illicit discharge monitoring data in the coastal watershed. Workshops were attended by 60 participants, the majority of which were municipal employees.

Donlon, (2001) 2000 Coastal Illicit Connection Remediation Grant The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) reports elimination of illicit connections in Portsmouth, Dover, and Rochester. The elimination process included rerouting a catch basin from the sewer system to the storm system, eliminating residential connections, and identifying new illicit connections. NHDES recommended two-year contracts for future projects as it takes time to get the grants approved. (By the time their contracts were approved, there was no time to get the projects done before winter.) They also recommended cost-sharing for homeowners and municipalities when the illicit discharge comes from a private residence.

Duffy, (2003) Water Quality Outreach The Town of Exeter reports their implementation of a storm drain stenciling project as part of an educational program for nonpoint source pollution. The Town completed three stenciling activities, with 64 volunteers, resulting in stenciled messages on 340 storm drains. The Town had better success with plastic, reusable stencils and spray paint than with disposable, hand-painted stencils. The Town also produced and distributed collateral materials such as litter bags, pocket ashtrays, flyers, door hangers, and t-shirts to complement the stenciling activities. The Town found that maps were important for volunteers' clarity as to which section of an area was assigned to them and planned to continue using these and other such tools as litter bags to clean up along the way.

Edwards and Kelcey, (2006) Guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures for IDDE and Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping The City of Portsmouth, with grant funding from the NHEP, hired Edwards and Kelcey to develop a manual to assist with several requirements of the federal stormwater management program (Phase II requirements). Designed specifically for New Hampshire communities, this manual addresses illicit discharge detection and elimination (IDDE) programs and pollution prevention/good housekeeping for municipal activities. The manual is written for program managers with responsibility for developing town stormwater programs and for municipal employees such as public works staff who will implement programs on a day-to-day basis. The manual offers guidance on six steps to develop a customized IDDE program. It also includes commonly accepted technical standards and guidance on stormwater management measures to control the quantity and quality of stormwater produced from municipal activities. This manual can help communities improve their stormwater management programs and provides a basis for future employee training programs. Portsmouth worked closely with other Seacoast Stormwater Coalition members provide input to the contractor in developing the manual.

Ellen Snyder, (2007) Newmarket Open Space Conservation Plan Ellen Synder, Ibis Wildlife Consulting, prepare an Open Space Conservation Plan for the town of Newmarket. The plan will guide the protection and management of Newmarket's open spaces.

ERLAC, (2006) 2006 Exeter River Alewife Festival On June 4, 2006, the Exeter River Local Advisory Committee held the 6th annual Exeter River Alewife Festival along the banks of the Squamscott River in downtown Exeter. Three dozen organizations exhibited at the Festival and event organizers estimated approximately 300 people attended the event despite inclement weather. The purpose of the Festival was to increase awareness of the Exeter River watershed and its the role in providing drinking water, wildlife habitat and scenic, historic and recreational resources for residents in the ten watershed towns. ERLAC also produced maps of the watershed for public education as well as posters, banners, and newspaper advertisements announcing the event.

ERLAC, (2005) 2004 Alewife Festival On June 5, 2004, the Exeter River Local Advisory Committee (ERLAC) held the 4th Annual Exeter River Alewife Festival along the banks of the Squamscott River in downtown Exeter. Over three dozen organizations exhibited and 750 people attended. Projects included newspaper advertising, article writing and printing of posters, palm cards and banners.

ERLAC, (2005) 2005 Exeter River Alewife Festival The Exeter River Local Advisory Committee's (ERLAC) 5th Annual Exeter River Alewife Festival was held June 4, 2005, along the banks of the Squamscott River in downtown Exeter, and the results and activities are reported. The ERLAC met eight times previous to establish a list of participants and activities. Over three dozen organizations exhibited at the Festival and event organizers estimated approximately 600 people, including many children, attended the event. NHEP funded the printing of posters, brochures banners, and placement of newspaper advertisements announcing the event. NHEP Management Plan information available included: options for voluntary land protection; protection of shoreland from development; Exeter's relationship to the Great Bay; tips on septic system maintenance; and storm drains' role in water quality. Plans for next year include providing the press with draft articles on the event; a backyard wildlife event in the fall (per request of participants), and a NH Fish & Game table with information on fisheries.

Finnegan, (2002) Laboratory Analyses of Water and Shellfish from Coastal Waters and Watershed of New Hampshire The New Hampshire Public Health Laboratories (NHPHL) supplemented efforts to monitor for the presence of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) in the state's shellfish resources by providing laboratory analyses of shellfish samples from two sites in coastal New Hampshire. The NHPHL received and tested 49 shellfish tissue samples for PSP toxin in 2002. The samples were also tested for any other bacterial contamination, salinity, and pH. The NHPHL maintained and provided all analytical results in hard copy and in a computerized database to the Department of Environmental Services' Shellfish Program for inclusion in their final report to the New Hampshire Estuaries Project. The Department of Health and Human Services (which NHPHL is a sub-sector of) recommended continued PSP testing as well as sanitary meat fecal contamination testing during both wet and dry conditions throughout the next year.

Finnegan, (2001) Laboratory Analyses of Water and Shellfish Samples from Coastal Waters The New Hampshire Public Health Laboratories (NHPHL) reports their analysis of 932 water samples for fecal coliforms, salinity, and pH. NHPHL also assisted in testing for Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning. FDA-required Quality Assurance Quality Control standards were met. All results were passed to the Shellfish Program and are reported in the 2001 Shellfish Program final report.

Finnigan, (2006) NH Department of Health and Human Services Public Health Laboratories Shellfish Program 2005 Results from water sample testing and shellfish tissue analyses conducted by the New Hampshire Public Health Laboratories of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) are reported. In 2005, DHHS tested 836 water samples, 101 shellfish tissue samples for bacteria, and 87 shellfish tissue samples for paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP). The 2005 PSP bloom event required a 33% increase in the number of samples taken. In addition, the wet weather in 2005 led to an additional 149 samples being received and processed. All samples received were successfully tested. For 2006 DHHS will continue to test PSP levels and provide analyses of shellfish growing water samples for fecal coliform bacteria, salinity, and pH.

Finnigan, (2004) Laboratory Analyses of Water and Shellfish from Coastal Waters and Watershed of New Hampshire Results of New Hampshire Public Health Laboratories' (NHPHL) 2004 shellfish water monitoring bacterial analyses, Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) Analyses and Shellfish Meat Testing for bacterial contamination are reported. NHPHL's split-sample proficiency program (the only program of its kind, with much potential for growth) was used in testing along with National Shellfish Sanitation Program guidelines. The NHPHL stated that the coming year would include continued laboratory analyses for PSP and other factors during wet and dry periods.

Finnigan, (2003) Laboratory Analyses of Water and Shellfish from Coastal Waters and Watershed The New Hampshire Public Health Laboratories (NHPHL) reports tests of 963 shellfish growing water samples for fecal coliforms in 2003. The salinity and pH were performed on 963 and 961 samples, respectfully. The NHPHL received 66 and tested 64 shellfish tissue samples for Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) toxin in 2003. The NHPHL received and tested 120 shellfish meat samples for bacteria. All results were provided in tabular format to the NHEP. Future plans included continued testing for PSP, however budget constraints projected difficulty in continued testing of fecal coliform, salinity, pH, and meat testing.

Gatzke, (2002) Septic System Workshops 2002 Granite State Designers and Installers (GSDI) reports workshops they conducted in six New Hampshire communities (Rochester, Portsmouth, Hampton Falls, Northwood, Exeter, and Newmarket) about on-site wastewater treatment systems. The workshops were attended by 172 citizens and covered septic system function and maintenance and discussed current alternative products. In general, the participants showed very little knowledge of septic systems and were eager for information. Based on the attendance and the nature of questions posed by participants, there is interest among citizens for more information on septic systems, and there is a need to reach the thousands of other home owners with septic systems. GSDI recommended additional seminars, printed materials to homeowners, fact sheets, and availiability of Septic System Record Keeping Files Folders.

Grizzle, (2006) Soft-Shell Clam (Mya Arenaria) Distribution & Abundance at Selected Sites in the Great Bay Estuary The results of a soft-shell clam distribution and abundance survey in six locations of the Great Bay Estuary by the Jackson Estuarine Laboratories (JEL) at the University of New Hampshire are reported. The six sites were those left unstudied by previous population surveys, and the main goal of the project was to complete the coverage of the Great Bay Estuary. Factors such as differences in sediment types, number of siphon holes, and number of empty shells were recorded at the different sites. Based on the low number of both live clams and empty shells, it was concluded that none of the six areas were productive clamflats, nor had they been for some time. JEL recommended future studies to include more focused observations on characteristics of productive clamflats (sediment type in particular) as well as predation.

Grizzle, (2005) 2004 Student Estuarine Research Project Portsmouth Middle School teachers, UNH researchers and community volunteers worked together to combine classroom lessons with field trips to monitor bird populations in South Mill Pond. Approximately 337 sixth grade students monitored an ongoing habitat restoration project in 2004. The students learned about ecology of coastal waters, scientific method, and bird identification. The bird-monitoring component of the project involved observing, identifying and recording data on birds in and around the Pond. The data collected in 2004 were compared to the 2003 (year of the first bird monitoring project) data. Similar numbers of birds and major bird types were observed in Spring 2004 compared to Spring 2003. However, during Fall 2004 many more ducks were observed compared to the Spring monitoring periods. Those involved found that the project took much more time than planned and recommended more comprehensive planning for future projects as well as allocating responsibilities to volunteers ahead of time.

Grizzle, (2004) Oyster Reef Mapping in the Great Bay Estuary, New Hampshire - 2003 The Jackson Estuarine Laboratory (JEL) at UNH reports their reef mapping project for the Piscataqua and Squamscott Rivers, containing two of the six largest reefs in the Great Bay Estuary not mapped. Underwater videography was used in the present study to determine the boundaries of the two reefs. One representative still image from each stationary video site was assembled in a systematic grid overlaid on the overall imaging area to provide a photomontage of bottom images for each reef. Results showed that no major changes have occurred on the reefs since the 1990's. JEL recommended videography for future reef monitoring as it showed great potential for future development and use.

Grizzle, (2003) An Education and Monitoring Program for an Ongoing Estuarine Habitat Restoration Project Portsmouth Middle School reports their efforts from March through June 2003 to monitor bird occurrences at South Mill Pond in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The project involved approximately 160 sixth grade students working in teams monitored bird occurrences and behavior as part of the community-wide program to restore the pond. To prepare for the monitoring, teachers and guest lecturers gave students instruction on the ecology of coastal waters, scientific method, and common birds of the area. A total of 1,079 birds were observed in or near South Mill Pond during the three-month project and about 30 different species were recorded. The project utilized 470 adult volunteer hours. The coordinating teachers developed a unique curriculum that included hands-on data collection, student journaling and the creation of a South Mill Pond Ecology student handbook.

Grizzle et al., (2006) Oyster Reef Restoration Project for the City of Dover The University of New Hampshire and the City of Dover describe a project to restore formerly productive oyster bottom in two areas, the Bellamy River and Pomeroy Cove (Piscataqua River). Site surveys found substantial amounts of "shell bottom" (but only two live oysters) along a 1.2 km stretch of the Bellamy, and no oyster bottom at the Pomeroy Cove site. Hence, restoration efforts were designed only for the Bellamy. The primary reef restoration method chosen was “spat seeding" onto the existing shell bottom, which involves deposition of spat (young oysters) attached to shell substrate produced by remote setting. Larvae from native Great Bay oysters were set in tanks at UNH's Jackson Estuarine Laboratory in July 2005, and held on a nursery raft at JEL until reef construction in November 2005. Approximately 300,000 spat-on-shell were used to construct 12 "minireefs" (total surface area ~0.1 acre) within a 1.5-acre overall restoration area. Nine months after reef construction, 32,000 live oysters remained on the mini-reefs and no live oysters were found in adjacent natural reef areas. When considering only the 0.1 acre area covered by the mini-reefs, live oysters occurred at 64/m2, which is similar to oyster densities in other areas in Great Bay. When considering the entire 1.5-acre restoration area, live oysters were at ~4/m2. The entire 1.5-acre area was considered "restored" in the short-term. Longer-term restoration success will be dependent upon successful natural recruitment to the minireefs as well as the adjacent bottom areas. Diver observations in July 2006 indicated that very little oyster shell (other than what was put out with the spat in November 2005) remained in the restoration area. This suggests that longer-term restoration success may require placement of additional shell onto the bottom.

Grizzle, et al, (2006) Reef Structure Alternatives for Restoration of Oyster in New Hampshire The University of New Hampshire describes a study that compared previous performance (survival, growth, natural spat set) of replicate "large" (6 m diameter) constructed reefs to replicate clusters of "small" (3.2 m diameter) constructed reefs ( an example of the general ecological "SLOSS" (single large or several small) question applied to oyster restoration). Early reef performance (dependent variables: oyster density, mean shell height, and spat [oysters < 40 mm shell height] density) did not differ significantly for the "large" constructed reefs compared to "small" in any of the three dependent variables measured four times over the duration (20 months) of the experiment. Both types of constructed/restored reefs, however, differed substantially and significantly from both types of controls (exposed to harvest and unharvested) in oyster density and spat set, with mean densities of 3 to 6 times higher on the constructed reefs. A total of 1.25 acres of bottom area was considered "restored" oyster bottom at the completion of the project. Including direct and match costs for the present project, it was estimated that restoring 1 acre of oyster bottom using spat seeding would require about $54,800. A recommended protocol for design of reef restoration projects that involve spat seeding is provided.

Hampton Conservation Commission, (2004) Wetlands Assessment, Inventory, and Prime Wetlands Designation Project in the Taylor River Watershed The Hampton Conservation Commission in conjunction with the Rockingham County Conservation District presents an inventory of a freshwater wetland system adjacent to the Taylor River in Hampton and Hampton Falls for Prime Wetland Designation by both towns. Public informational meetings were held to promote awareness of the NHEP Management Plan and functions and values of wetlands. Also, a New Hampshire Certified Wetland Scientist was hired to complete the wetland inventory. The inventory provided education and outreach to abutters and residents of Hampton to promote Designation at Town Meeting.

Harris, (2007) Predicting the Success of Invasive Species in the Great Bay Estuarine Researve The University of New Hampshire Zoology Department reports on a study designed to continue monitoring the distribution of invasive species in the Great Bay Estuary and to carry out laboratory experiments designed to test the effects of salinity on ascidian mortality and determine predators of ascidian species. Researchers collected presence/absence and abundance data of invasive species at four sites within the Great Bay Estuarine System. The report gives a brief description of the results of the monitoring program to compare results obtained from 2006 to 2007 and to assess the response of ascidians to varying salinity and predators. This report specifically includes monitoring data from 2007 and results of laboratory and field experiments examining the effects of salinity and predators on ascidian distribution.

Harris & Dijkstra, (2008) Seasonal Appearance and Monitoring of Invasive Species in the Great Bay Estuarine System UNH researchers characterize invasive species in the Great Bay Estuary. The report includes a synthesis of existing data on invasive species in the area and the results of a long-term comparative succession panel study that compared findings from a 2003 to 2006 study period and data from a similar study conducted from 1979 to 1982. The report also presents data conducted during a monitoring effort in the Great Bay Estuary to document invasive species and their predators.

Hart, (2005) Promoting Voluntary Land Conservation on the Lamprey, Exeter, and Squamscott River Corridors The Rockingham Land Trust's (RLT) community outreach project involving contacting local landowners along the Exeter, Lamprey, and Squamscott Rivers is discussed. RLT researched the names and addresses of landowners along the river corridors and within the target communities. Landowners were invited to participate in one of two free, land conservation and estate planning workshops. The goal of the project was to secure the completion of three conservation easements from participants in the workshops. Due to low landowner participation, this goal was determined to be unrealistic. RLT instead worked with prepared landowners to complete 4 conservation easements, for a total of 281 acres, within the project time period. RLT has completed one conservation easement on land on the Exeter River in Sandown, has two pending conservation projects (one easement and one fee simple) on the Lamprey River in Epping, and has one pending conservation easement on land in Brentwood. RLT recommended more innovative ways to encourage landowner participation such as tours of conservation easements or discussion sessions.

Hart, (2003) Technical Assistance and Outreach Program for Landowners and Municipalities in the Exeter River The Rockingham Land Trusts (RLT) initiated a project to increase awareness of the RLT and work with community officials and landowners to increase the amount of land protected by conservation easement. Five towns in the Exeter River Corridor were targeted (all of which had high projected population growth): Chester, Danville, Fremont, Raymond, and Sandown. The most significant results were two pending conservation easements, one in Danville (36 acres of managed forest) and Sandown (7 acres along Exeter River). In addition, Estate Planning and Land Protection workshops were presented in Raymond and Kensington that educated landowners on how to protect their land from development. RLT planned to continue the workshops and suggested that the New Hampshire Estuaries Project help facilitate discussion between grant recipients to more effectively distribute funds and prevent overlap.

Hunter, (2008) Summary Report for Round 1 of the Community Technical Assistance Program The NHEP initiated its Community Technical Assistance Program (CTAP) in 2005 to assist communities in implementing natural resource protection projects that they otherwise may not have the capacity or expertise to implement. Eleven communities applied for and received assistance in the areas of land conservation planning, wetlands/stream buffer protection, and stormwater management. Projects results include: • Wetlands evaluations conducted in two communities and assistance provided for designating 53 wetlands as prime wetlands in those two communities • Development of five new or revised ordinances/regulations improving wetlands protection, stream buffer protections, and/or stormwater management • Conservation lands inventories, baseline documentation, and development of monitoring plans for town-held easements and/or stewardship plans for town-owned conservation lands in five communities • Development of conservation/open space plans in two communities Individual project summaries are provided.

Hunter, (2007) Considerations and Recommendations for Expanding the NHEP Study Area into Maine This white paper is a summary of research conducted by staff and comments provided by the Maine expansion subcommittee. Factors determined to be important in consideration of program expansion included geographic extent; potential partners; reciprocal interest; environmental justification; impacts to the Monitoring Program, Management Plan and management structure; potential financial losses or gains; name/branding; consistency with federal initiatives; and options for expansion. NHEP staff and subcommittee members recommend expanding the NHEP area to the Maine portion of the watershed. A phased expansion plan is described. The NHEP Management Committee endorsed the recommendations and voted to expand the NHEP focus area to Maine at its December 2007 meeting.

Hunter, (2006) NHEP Year 11 Work Plan This Work Plan represents the eleventh year of NHEP activities and is developed with input from NHEP’s four project teams. The Plan describes recent accomplishments and projects to be undertaken beginning in 2007 to implement the NHEP Management Plan. Also included are a list of ongoing projects, a summary of meetings and milestones from the last year, relevance of activities to the Clean Water Act programs, and the overall budget. The NHEP Management Committee approved this plan during the June 13, 2006 meeting.

Hunter, (2006) 2006 NHEP Implementation Review The report contains an overview of NHEP accomplishments and activities since the last Implementation Review conducted by US EPA in 2002. The report also includes responses to the challenges identified during the last review and information on how the NHEP helps implement the EPA's core Clean Water Act programs.

Jack Munn, (2007) Shoreland Buffers in the Towns of Candia and Deerfield The towns of Candia and Deerfield worked with the Southern New Hampshire Regional Planning Commission (SNHPC) to develop and implement land use regulations to protect the remaining undisturbed natural shoreline buffers along the Lamprey and North Branch Rivers (2nd order or higher streams and tributaries) and other surface waters within these communities. The project was approached in two overall steps. Step one involved preparing an inventory, delineation and map of the remaining undisturbed natural vegetated buffers in both communities. Following completion of the inventory and mapping results, step two of the project consisted of a thorough analysis of both towns’ existing land use regulations primarily focusing on setbacks, buffers and wetlands. Three major shoreland protection options were identified and evaluated. The preferred option consisted of improving the town’s existing regulations and educating town officials and town board’s about the State’s Comprehensive Shoreland Protection Act (CSPA) requirements and how/where these requirements apply within each town.

Jeffery Taylor Assoc, (2007) TOWN OF NEW DURHAM Town of New Durham Zoning and Land Use Ordinance The Town of New Durham with assistance from Jeffery Taylor Associates drafted a buffer ordinance that was approved and will be on the 2007 Town Warrant in March.

Jodi Castallo, (2006) NHEP Buffer Outreach Final Report In 2006, NHEP completed a buffer characterization project, buffer protection presentaion, buffer brochure, one presentation , buffer web page, GRANIT buffer data layer/mapper, three additional projects related to buffer protection: Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission (SNHPC), Candia, and Deerfield. The NHEP Community Technical Assistance Program focused on buffers in New Durham. The NHEP provided buffer protection assistance through Rockingham Planning Commission and Strafford Regional Planning Commission

Jones, (2003) Tracking Bacterial Pollution Sources in Stormwater Pipes The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services' test results of two of the 16 storm drain pipes monitored as part of the Hampton-Seabrook Harbor TMDL study are reported. The pipes were selected for microbial source determination using ribotype profiling. Earlier sampling analysis revealed that the two pipes contributed relatively large loads of bacteria to the Harbor. Samples were collected in October 2002 and analyzed for source species identification. Overall, source species were determined for 46 of the 59 (or 78%) isolates found from the samples. Of the identified sources, birds were the most common source (36%), followed by humans (20%), wildlife (15%), and pets (7%). Twenty-two percent of the sources were not identified.

Jones, (2003) 2002 Coastal Municipal Stormwater Infrastructure Mapping Project The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) reports its issuance of a request for proposals (RFP) to all communities within Zone A of NHEP's coastal watershed in January 2002. The RFP announced the availability of funds for storm drainage system mapping. Grants were awarded to Portsmouth and Seabrook to complete mapping projects. Portsmouth completed field investigations which resulted in mapping of over 4,000 catch basins, over 1,000 pipe inlets and outfalls, and approximately 500 drain manholes, encompassing 90% of the city's storm sewer system. Seabrook hired a contractor to convert paper records into electronic data, use the town's April 2001 aerial photographs to obtain surface utility data, compare those data against the digitized data, and identify areas where information was lacking. The town then identified two priority areas where data were lacking (Blackwater River and Hampton Harbor) to focus their field efforts and gather missing data to complete maps.

Jones, (2003) Tracking Bacterial Pollution Sources in Hampton Harbor Results from studies of fecal-borne microorganisms in shellfish-growing waters in coastal New Hampshire are reported by the Department of Environmental Services (NHDES). Escherichia coli (E.coli) isolates - or bacteria colonies - were obtained from water samples collected from 10 sites in Hampton Harbor year-round during both dry and wet conditions. A library of known E.coli isolates was created from 20 different potential source species in the NH coast watershed, including humans, livestock, pets, wildlife and avian species. A total of 249 isolates from the 20 known source species were used as a reference to identify sources for 390 unknown isolates from water samples taken from August 2000 to October 2001. Banding patterns for water samples and source species isolates were considered to be the same if there was 80% or greater similarity between patterns. Overall, sources for 62% of the isolates were identified. The results suggest the most common source is humans. NH Coastal Pumpout Program brochures were recommended to be distributed locally. Also, NHDES was looking into another potential pumpout facility location.

Jones, (2002) Innovative Stormwater Treatment Technologies: Best Management Practices Manual The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services presents a manual which provides innovative stormwater treatment technology information for developed areas state-wide. It contains detailed product information including function, installation, operation and maintenance, and relative cost, as well as decision-making criteria to help in determining the most efficient BMP system for specific site conditions. The technologies in the manual are primarily for use in already-developed urban areas where traditional stormwater treatments cannot be used due to space constraints.

Jones, (2001) Rainfall Effects on Bacterial Contamination, a Clam Purging Study and a Monitoring Plan The Jackson Estuarine Laboratory (JEL) at UNH reports its collection and analysis of water and clam samples in Hampton Harbor to determine shoreline sources of fecal contamination. Rainfall events caused elevated concentrations of bacteria in culverts in Little Harbor, where contaminant concentration then decreased to low levels soon after the event. The response of clams following storm-related contamination events were mixed in the field. There was no clear demonstration of purging of bacterial contaminants in clams up to four days after storm events. JEL recommended continuing these tests regularly as outline in the Monitoring Plan.

Jones, (2000) Water Quality Analysis Supporting Sanitary Surveys The Jackson Estuarine Laboratory at UNH (JEL) reports their analysis of shoreline samples for fecal coliform, E. coli, and pH. Water samples in Whirl-Pak bags were shaken and measured, and bacterial cells were collected and incubated. Four Atlantic coast and two Great Bay sites had fecal coliform counts greater than 500FC/100ml. Low ratios suggest that the contamination may be from sources other than human fecal origin.

Jones, (2000) A Technical Characterization of Estuarine and Coastal New Hampshire This is a comprehensive review and analysis of water quality and natural resource information for New Hampshire estuaries, including documentation of status and trends compiled by the Jackson Estuarine Laboratory at the University of New Hampshire.

Jones, (1999) Water Quality Assessment of Stormwater Control Systems: Bacterial Phase Partitioning in Stormwater The Jackson Estuarine Laboratory (JEL) at UNH reports a project, part of CICEET, which analyzes the forms in which microbial contaminants are transported through stormwater treatment systems (particle-bound or freely suspended). The goals of the project were to test methods for differentiating free-living from particle-bound bacteria indicators and pathogens in water samples, and to determine what forms of bacteria are discharged into stormwater systems. The methods used consisted of differential filtration and centrifugation. Based on the range of freely-suspended fecal coliform (25%-82%), fecal coliform cells are not associated with particles. This suggests that stormwater treatment technologies that separate suspended particles may not remove a significant level of microbial contamination. Further studies were recommended to determine if existing technologies are capable of removing microbial contaminants.

Jones, (1999) Water Quality and Rainfall Analysis Supporting Sanitary Surveys in Hampton Harbor and Great Bay The Jackson Estuarine Laboratory at UNH reports the results of water samples collected from the shorelines of Hampton Harbor and Great Bay to determine if shellfish growing waters were safe for harvesting. More specifically: fecal coliform and pH were tested; technical assistance was given; and the existing Hampton Harbor water quality database was augmented with fecal coliform following rainfall events. In total, 244 samples from 122 sites were analyzed. Fecal coliform counts ranged from undetected to 20,000 fc/100mL, and pH was generally between 6.5 and 8.5. The fecal coliform indicator was found to be useful as it showed elevated counts at all suspected areas of contamination. Further pre and post rainfall sampling was recommended.

Jones, (1997) Bellamy River and Little Bay Shoreline Survey: Fecal Coliform and pH Analyses The Jackson Estuarine Laboratory (JEL) at UNH reports water quality sampling and analysis conducted by volunteers assisting in Lower Little Bay and Bellamy River sanitary surveys. The goal was to determine if shellfish growing waters in these areas were safe for shellfishing. Fecal coliform and pH tests were conducted. 125 samples from 111 sites were analyzed. Fecal coliform levels ranged from undetected to 206,000 fc/100mL. The 95 pH measurements ranged from 6.2 to 8.5. Three had levels above 8.5, and these same samples showed an almost undetectable level of fecal coliform (< 2fc/100mL) which indicates unfavorable growing conditions for fecal bacteria. Resampling was needed to provide adequate documentation of fecal sources as a basis for pursuing remedial action, which JEL recommended keeping in mind in future such projects.

Jones & Langan, (2002) Shellfish and Water Quality Monitoring Activities that Support the NHEP The Jackson Estuarine Laboratory (JEL) at the University of New Hampshire conducted four separate studies in 2002 to meet a variety of goals outlined in the New Hampshire Estuaries Project Monitoring Plan. The following four studies were identified as priority to complete the picture of water quality issues in New Hampshire: (1) the time required for softshell clams to purge microbial contaminants from their tissue following rainfall; (2) determination of levels of bioexposure to toxic metals and organic compounds in softshell clams and oysters; (3) ribotyping analysis of E-coli strains for tracking sources of fecal-borne microbial contaminants; and (4) continuous monitoring of water quality (temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, etc) at five stations in Great and Little bays. A general conclusion for projects 1,3, and 4 was continued study and/or updating of equipment used in studies. Project 2 was successful and no further recommendations were made.

Jones, S, (2007) Impacts of Wastewater Treatment Facilities on Receiving Water Quality The Squamscott River has had extended episodes of low dissolved oxygen (DO) that have been recorded at a site near its mouth over the past few years. These episodes were recorded as a result of temporally intensive monitoring by a datasonde, whereas data for the rest of the river has been spotty. Thus, the spatial extent of low DO episodes is not known. This study was designed to better characterize the spatial extent of DO conditions along the full length of the river, as well as to determine nutrient and other water quality parameters along the transect to help understand possible causes of low DO levels. Sampling and measurements were taken on five dates in 2005 and one in 2006. Only one date, August 19, 2005, showed spatially extensive low DO levels. The nutrient and chlorophyll a levels at the different sampling sites in the Squamscott River did not appear to have any discernable relationship with DO levels. The Exeter WWTF was a consistently significant source of nutrients to the river, but DO conditions at the outfall pipe were never below target levels. Overall, conditions recorded by the datasonde for 2005 showed greatly diminished episodes of depressed DO levels compared to previous years. Future studies should focus first on verifying the spatial extent of conditions that are conducive to depressed DO levels as indicated by existing sonde data.

Jones/Houle, (2006) Low Impact Stormwater Management Projects at the University of New Hampshire Low Impact Development (LID) is a storm water best management practice (BMP) involving the use of small-scale storm water management controls that are placed at strategic points to control the impacts of contaminants generated from storm water runoff from transportation infrastructure. These sustainable management measures are designed to filter pollutants, control peak flow rates, and reduce the total volume of rainfall runoff. For this project, researchers at the University of New Hampshire (UNH) constructed demonstration-level BMPs at two high profile locations on the UNH Campus: The UNH Stormwater Center and the Jackson Estuarine Laboratory. Self-guided descriptions of and outreach material for the three innovative storm water management BMP’s were installed at each site. Students, faculty and regional stakeholders were introduced to the LID technologies through an outreach and education program. Finally, the researchers estimated the runoff volume reduction and pollutant load reduction as a result of the BMP’s

Justice, (2006) Impervious Surface Mapping in Coastal New Hampshire (2005) The Complex Systems Research Center at the University of New Hampshire reports results of the NHEP-funded project to estimate impervious surface acreage for a 48-town region of coastal New Hampshire for 2005 (including the 42 towns within the NHEP area). Both traditional and subpixel image classification techniques were applied to 30-meter Landsat 5 Thematic Mapper (TM) satellite data acquired October 3, 2005. The classifications indicated that impervious surface coverage increased from 4.3% (31,233 acres) in 1990 to 6.3% (45,445 acres) in 2000 to 7.4% (53,408 acres) in 2005, an overall increase of 3.1% in fifteen years. The data set representing impervious surface acreage has been archived in GRANIT GIS clearinghouse, making it available to the general public. As recent state figures project population increases of 21% from 2005 to 2025 in Rockingham and Strafford counties, impervious assessment was recommended to be repeated on 3-5 year cycles to monitor changes.

Justice and Rubin, (2006) Impervious Surface Mapping in Coastal New Hampshire (2005) The Complex Systems Research Center at the University of New Hampshire reports results of the NHEP-funded project to estimate impervious surface acreage for a 48-town region of coastal New Hampshire for 2005 (including the 42 towns within the NHEP area). Both traditional and subpixel image classification techniques were applied to 30-meter Landsat 5 Thematic Mapper (TM) satellite data acquired October 3, 2005. The classifications indicated that impervious surface coverage increased from 4.3% (31,233 acres) in 1990 to 6.3% (45,445 acres) in 2000 to 7.4% (53,408 acres) in 2005, an overall increase of 3.1% in fifteen years. The data set representing impervious surface acreage has been archived in GRANIT GIS clearinghouse, making it available to the general public. As recent state figures project population increases of 21% from 2005 to 2025 in Rockingham and Strafford counties, impervious assessment was recommended to be repeated on 3-5 year cycles to monitor changes. NHEP NOTE: The NHEP study area differs from the study area of this report. Impervious surface estimates for the NHEP study area increased from 4.7% (24,349 acres) in 1990 to 6.8% (35,503 acres) in 2000 to 8.0% (41,784 acres) in 2005, an overall increase of 3.3% in fifteen years.

Kane, (2007) Conservation Audit and Stewardship Plan A Conservation Audit and Stewardship Plan for North Hampton was prepared by Chris Kane. In the Audit portion, all references to any lands in Town that had appeared on any list as potentially held for conservation purposes were researched. Other sources of data regarding conservation lands were also investigated, including the GIS mapping Conservation Lands data layer administered by Complex Systems at the University of New Hampshire. All available records in the Town Offices were searched, including tax card files, Conservation Commission property files, old plans, and lists of Town lands and Conservation lands. A thorough search of the records at the Rockingham County Registry of Deeds provided much of the critical information and documents that the Audit relied on. As the information on properties was gathered, they were entered into a database by Tax Map, Lot and Sub-lot number. Twenty fields of important data were recorded for each parcel. These include acreage, type of protection, book and page of recorded documents and plans, summary of the conservation restrictions, and recommendations for stewardship. Informed by the Conservation Audit, a Stewardship Plan was produced to help guide the Conservation Commission in its continuing efforts to carryout land conservation and stewardship of their Town-owned and easement lands.

Kellam, (2006) Eye On Estuaries: NH tourist, the bluefish, soon to depart bay An educational column about coastal watershed issues that appears in the Portsmouth Herald and is initiated by the New Hampshire Estuaries Project.

Kellam, (2006) Supplemental Community Inserts to the 2006 State of the Estuaries Report Supplemental materials to the 2006 State of the Estuaries Report (06SOTE) were created by the NHEP for each of the 42 coastal watershed communities. The materials included data on community population, impervious surface coverage in acres, impervious surface in % of land, acres of impervious surface per person, and key conservation areas that were identified in the Land Conservation Plan for NH's Coastal Watershed, TNC. Also general information was provided on protecting critical habitats, designating prime wetlands, updating buffer regulations, adopting regulations to reduce sprawl, and promoting effective stormwater management. The format for the material is a large bookmark that sticks out of the top of the 06SOTE and clearly indicates which town the data is describing. A 47 bookmarks were printed for each coastal watershed community (1974 total). Copies were inserted in 06SOTEs and those were send to all members the conservation commissions and planning boards in the coastal watershed communities and their libraries.

Kellam, (2004) 2004 V.I.P. Tours of the Great Bay Estuary of Coastal Decision Makers In recognition of Estuaries Month, the NHEP staff conducted tours on board the UNH Gulf Challenger. Municipal planning officials (primarily planning board members and conservation commissioners) were invited on the tours, which were conducted on Sunday, September 19 (26 attendees) and Saturday, September 25, 2004 (31 attendees).

Kellam, (2004) NHEP Strategic Communication Plan The NHEP Strategic Communication Plan (SCP), which facilitates the implementation of Action Plans related to public outreach and education, is described. It focuses resources on communication activities that strengthen the organization's position in the resource management community. Branding elements are explored along with program descriptions and a draft survey for various interested parties. The SCP describes goals for the next three years.

Kouarti, (2005) Public Outreach and Education Initiative Results from a comprehensive public outreach initiative by Moose Mountains Regional Greenway (MMRG), designed to educate landowners, community leaders and the public about the importance of tools for preserving critical natural resources within the MMRG region, are reported. Two New Durham workshops, "Community Roundtable in Wakefield" and "Trail Day in Milton", were well attended by the appropriate target audiences. Participants completed surveys and rated the workshop quality and their knowledge of topics before and after the workshops. All news releases received excellent coverage in The Rochester Times and the Granite State News. In addition, reporters from The Rochester Times attended several MMRG events and presented a three-part front-page series on MMRG’s mission and goals. Four color brochures were mailed to more than 7,800 households within 4 communities as part of a membership solicitation package. The MMRG web site was also reorganized and updated. Each of the three communities involved (New Durham, Wakefield, and Middleton) now has plans for future conservation.

Kouarti, (2004) Wetlands Evaluation Project The Moose Mountains Regional Greenways (MMRG) reports its involvement in selecting and evaluating wetlands within its six towns service area. Criteria were developed by MMRG, under the guidance of Blue Moon Environmental, the wetland consultant for the project. Selection criteria were applied to identify those wetlands in each town that exhibited the potential to provide exceptional function and value to their respective communities. A series of community meetings was held to explain the study and to solicit local input. Approximately ten wetlands were identified in each town; all were field-evaluated using the New Hampshire Method. All methods, data, and maps were compiled into town-specific user's guides and presented to each town. The MMRG recommended only studying three to five rather than ten wetlands at a time for a more realistic time frame and work load in future pursuits.

LaBranche, Julie, (2007) Buffer Projects in the Town of Wakefield and City of Somersworth The Strafford Regional Planning Commission (SRPC) worked to improve buffer protections and management in two towns. In the Town of Wakefield, SRPC worked with the Acton Wakefield Watersheds Alliance to develop a buffer evaluation form to assist property owners assess the condition of their riparian buffers and a buffer brochure describing the value of buffers. SRPC worked with the City of Somersworth planning staff and the conservation commission to develop a draft riparian and wetland buffer ordinance to replace an existing wetland conservation district ordinance. The draft ordinance proposes a 250-foot buffer for all surface waters, including a 25-foot naturally vegetated buffer area with no disturbance.

Landry, (2007) Ambient Rivers Monitoring in the Great Bay Estuary Watershed 2006 The Department of Environmental Services (DES) received funding from the New Hampshire Estuaries Project (NHEP) to conduct monitoring activities in 2006. The activities described in this report were led by the DES Watershed Assistance Section and involved water monitoring at the head-of-tide in nine tidal tributaries. Other DES staff conducted laboratory analyses. These monitoring activities were completed with the overall purpose of improving the understanding of water quality trends. DES completed all tasks as planned. This report includes the sample collection information, field and laboratory data, and quality assurance information. Data summaries and interpretations will come at a later time in other DES and NHEP publications.

Landry, (2006) Ambient Rivers Monitoring in the Great Bay Estuary Watershed 2005 The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) water quality monitoring activities in tidal tributaries to the Great Bay Estuary for 2005 are reported. Studies were led by the DES Watershed Assistance Section with the intent to improve understanding of water quality trends and provide data to support the NHEP Monitoring Plan. Field measurements were made for dissolved oxygen, temperature, conductivity, pH, and turbidity. Laboratory analysis was conducted for total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), ammonia, nitrate/nitrite, total phosphorus, biological oxygen demand (BOD), E. coli, and chlorophyll-a. Testing consistent with the Ambient River Monitoring Plan QAPP was performed at six tidal dams on rivers (Exeter, Lamprey, Oyster, Bellamy, Cocheco, and Salmon Falls) and at two tributaries of Little Harbor (Berry's Brook and Sagamore Creek). Continued monthly monitoring was recommended. NHEP's draft Water Quality Indicators report recommends removing BOD from the list of monitoring tests. BOD levels were consistently below the analytical method detection level, and the costs of switching to a laboratory with the necessary equipment for more sensitive testing are high.

Landry, (2005) Ambient Rivers Monitoring in NH Coastal Watersheds 2004 The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) reports their collection and analysis of monthly water samples from nine tributaries in the Great Bay watershed. DES Ambient River Monitoring Program standards were used in lab methods and samples were taken from freshwater portions of the rivers at the downstream side. Field measurements were made for dissolved oxygen, temperature, conductivity, pH, and turbidity. Continued monthly monitoring along with improved accessibility of data were recommended by NHDES.

Landry, (2004) Evaluating the Stormwater Treatment Performance of AbTech Industries Smart Sponge® Plus The University of New Hampshire and the NH Department of Environmental Services evaluated the ability of AbTech’s Smart Sponge® Plus to remove fecal-borne bacteria from stormwater in a storm drainage system located in Seabrook, New Hampshire. The Smart Sponge® Plus was installed into a water quality inlet and samples were collected from influent (pre-treatment) and effluent (post-treatment) for analysis of bacterial concentrations and loadings during 15 storm events from September 3, 2003 to May 24, 2004, excluding winter months. Flow-weighted composite samples were analyzed for fecal coliforms, Escherichia coli and enterococci to determine if concentrations were lowered as stormwater passed through the Smart Sponge® Plus material. In most cases, bacterial concentrations were reduced within the treatment system, but to varying degrees. The overall load reductions for the bacterial indicators were 50.3% for fecal coliforms, 51.3% for Escherichia coli and 43.2% for enterococci. Overall, the observed reductions in bacterial concentrations in post-treatment stormwater would still result in discharge of elevated bacterial levels that would continue to limit uses in receiving waters.

Landry, (2003) Ambient Water Quality and Shellfish Tissue Monitoring in New Hampshire Estuaries - 2001 and 2002 The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services' ambient water quality and shellfish monitoring activities for 2001 and 2002 are reported. The activities involved water monitoring in tidal tributaries and estuarine waters and tissue monitoring of mussels, clams and oysters. The New Hampshire Estuaries Project's (NHEP) funding enhanced the efforts of existing monitoring programs. These monitoring activities were a direct result of recommendations made by the NHEP Technical Advisory Committee and the Monitoring Plan and were completed with the overall purpose of improving the understanding of water quality trends and the concentrations of toxic contaminants in shellfish tissue. NHEP recommended continued monthly testing to establish trends in ambient water quality as well as annual and semi-annual testing in mussels, and in clams and oysters, respectively.

Landry, (2003) Ambient Rivers & Shellfish Tissue Monitoring in New Hampshire Estuarine Watersheds 2003 The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) received funds from the New Hampshire Estuaries Project (NHEP) to conduct monitoring activities in 2003 (in support of the NHEP Monitoring Program.) Included were ambient water quality monitoring in tidal tributaries and mussel toxin contamination monitoring as part of GulfWatch. The ambient river monitoring program involved water sample collection at nine sites from March - December. The GulfWatch program involved mussel collection at five sites; the NHEP funds were used for three of the five sites. NHDES recommended continued monthly ambient river monitoring to establish trends in river quality. They also suggested annual mussel sampling , semi-annual clam and oyster sampling, and increased funding to GulfWatch to assist with the high laboratory costs associated with testing.

Landry, (2003) Peirce Island Pool Discharge Elimination The City of Portsmouth, in cooperation with the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, received funds to help eliminate filter backwash discharges from the Peirce Island pool. The discharge to the River was capped and the filter backwash is now routed through the new pipeline and pump system to the force main which connects to the Peirce Island wastewater treatment plant. By eliminating the pool filter backwash, a source of bacteria and chemicals that flowed into the Piscataqua River has been removed. The elimination of this discharge works toward the overall goal of improving water quality in the Great Bay Estuary watershed. It was recommended that similar future projects should be considered for funding as the process of replacing infrastructure is often necessary but very expensive for a town.

Landry, (2000) Installation of Jan-Mar Farm Barnyard Stormwater Best Management Practices The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services reports a project that corrected pollution problems from the Jan Mar Farm in the Salmon Falls watershed through installation of agricultural BMPs. Exclusionary fencing was installed, a 25' vegetative buffer was planted along the intermittent stream, a stone waterway was constructed, a diversion with catch basin, underground outlet, and concrete road savers were installed, concrete ground gutters and an apron and grade around existing catch basins were constructed, and an additional manure storage facility was built. Pre and post- monitoring concluded positive impacts on water quality.

Landry, (2000) Toxic Contaminant Monitoring at Shellfish Growing Sites in New Hampshire The NH Department of Environmental Services (NH DES) sampling of mussels in 2000 is described. Four replicate samples of 20 individual mussels (Mytilus edulis) were collected at two sites ( Hampton Harbor and Rye Harbor), and tested for toxic contamination. Lab results were forthcoming at the time of submittal, but the NH DES recommended a comparison between the results and FDA guidelines and that New Hampshire Estuaires Project continue to be involved in monitoring toxic contaminants in shellfish growing waters.

Landry, (1999) Installation of Stuart Farm Barnyard Erosion and Sediment Control Best Management Practices The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) reports its project focused on the installation of best management plans to reduce the impacts of barnyard and stormwater pollution from a 271-acre dairy farm in Stratham, New Hampshire. The Stuart Farm was identified by the Natural Resource Conservation Service and NHDES as a high priority stormwater/nonpoint source problem area in 1998. Pre-installation samples were taken using a Teflon-lined Stormwater Vortex Sampler. Subsurface drainage systems were installed, asphalt-lined waterways were constructed, and the heavy traffic areas were resurfaced and stabilized with an asphalt "hot mix." Post-installation data had not been collected at the time of reporting, however the retention pond had structural problems that caused it to fail. Post-installation data collection was recommended as well as addressing manure storage since the current system, installed in the 1980's, is obsolete.

Landry, (1999) Elimination of Illicit Connections in Coastal New Hampshire Spurs Corporation and Controversy The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) reports the findings of a three-year project to identify and eliminate sources of bacterial contamination in coastal New Hampshire urban stormwater systems. Bacteria data from outfall pipes with confirmed cross connections ranged from 1,700 to 1,000,000 E. Coli counts/100mL during dry weather in Dover, New Hampshire. Flow from a damaged stormwater outfall pipe was determined to have a geometric mean E.Coli concentration of 1,047,199 cfu/100mL and a dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) concentration of 22.4mg/l. The cross connection's source was found to be a commercial building and was repaired, lowering concentrations to 93 E.Coli cfu/100mL and 7.2 DIN mg/l. NHDES carried out case studies in Exeter, Newmarket, and Dover involving voluntary compliance, enforcement action, and legal action, respectively. NHDES is currently monitoring shellfish growing waters to determine the extent of water quality improvement from the removal of illicit connections.

Landry, (1997) An Investigation of Water Quality in New Hampshire Estuaries The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) identified and documented dry/wet weather pollution sources affecting portions of the Bellamy and Cocheco Rivers. Work focused on locating urban bacterial sources, though other pollutants (e.g., heavy metals, nutrients, etc.) were also included in the study. NHDES found that Bellamy River does not contribute significant bacterial loads during dry weather and that pollutants are entering it from urban portions of the watershed during wet weather. Conversely, NHDES found that bacteria contamination in the Cocheco River is high during dry weather, likely due to cross connections and deteriorating sewer pipes. More work was recommended for 1998 to identify and eliminate pollutant sources for Cocheco River in all weather conditions and for Bellamy River during wet conditions.

Landry/Rice, (2004) Oxford Avenue Sewer Extension Project in the City of Portsmouth The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) reports the City of Portsmouth's proposal and installation of a new sewer line at Oxford Avenue that had been failing. The construction took place in fall 2004. Grant funds assisted with the costs and the resulting line replaced the septic systems for fourteen homes that bordered the Great Bog and Pickering Creek watersheds. Areas that still need sewer service have been identified (Davis Road, which drains to Hogdson Brook; Jones Avenue, which drains to Sagamore Creek; and Pleasant Point, which drains to Back Channel) and funding to assist in their replacement will likely be requested.

Langan, (2001) New Hampshire Estuaries Project Monitoring Plan This is a comprehensive monitoring plan with two phases of monitoring implementation by the Jackson Estuarine Laboratory for the NHEP. The plan answers environmental and programmatic questions.

Langan, (2000) Shellfish Habitat Restoration Strategies for New Hampshire's Estuaries The Jackson Estuarine Laboratory (JEL) at UNH reports changes in shellfish bed size and factors affecting declines. JEL identified locations where there had been decline in aerial cover of shellfish habitat or abundance and then evaluated causes of the decline. Studies found that all oyster beds in the Great Bay estuary have declined in both size and abundance due to decline in siltation, lack of larval settlement substrate (clean shell), predators, and disease (MSX in particular.) Restoration techniques for oysters and softshell clams were provided for each known bed. JEL found that some factors could not be controlled (disease, predators) but will continue close monitoring and enforcement of restoration techniques such as limiting movement to slow spread of disease.

Langan, (1999) Clam Population Assessment in Back Channel, Portsmouth The Jackson Estuarine Lab at the University of New Hampshire surveyed softshell clam populations in the Back Channel area of Portsmouth Harbor. All sites had suitable habitat characteristics, but clams were common on only one site. A recommendation to further investigate juvenile survival was made.

Langan, (1999) Assessment of Clam (Mya arenaria) Populations in the Great Bay Estuary This project was aimed at providing updated data concerning the condition of clam populations in the Great Bay area by the Jackson Estuarine Lab at the University of New Hampshire. The study was limited to areas classified as approved for harvesting and areas where sanitation studies were already being conducted. Populations were determined by clam count and number of siphon holes found in selected quarter-mile qu