Observed: 1-2 December 2000
Narrative: J. Andrew Walsh

"The stream section known as Wagner's Brook" is located near the end of Eisenhower Lane, and is approximately 50 meters in length (endpoints marked with surveyors flagging.) This section of First Herring Brook (FHB) flows relatively slowly (approx. 0.25 ft/sec; Dec. 2,2000). Stream width and depth within the stream section is approximately 25-35 ft. and 1-2 ft(?) respectively. The streambed appears to consist of boulders and silt (?). With the exception of moss growing on boulders, no aquatic vegetation was observed in the stream. Low banks (at least 1 ft. high) border the west bank, while the easterly margin is relatively gentle. Although the water was discolored by tannic acid, water quality appeared good. No trash or other debris was observed.

The stream section is bordered by overhanging tree and shrub vegetation (woody buffer approx. 30-65 ft.), including red maple, sweet pepperbush, arrow-wood, and northern spicebush. Cinnamon fern and wood reed-grass are common herbaceous plants in the bordering wetlands. Two standing dead trees with nest cavities were observed within the riparian area.

The primary threat observed within the stream section was the removal of understory vegetation (associated with a private residence) within the riparian zone along the upstream, easterly side of the stream.

The sections of "Wagner's Brook" located adjacent to the stream section (i.e. upstream and downstream sections) are characterized by riffles , pools, and areas of slow moving water. The stream also contains numerous boulders and fallen woody debris (i.e. branches, logs) that probably enhance its value for aquatic wildlife. The stream section located upstream is bordered by a relatively wide forested buffer (>100 ft.) The upstream end of "Wagner's Brook" is marked by a concrete dam (impounding the water supply reservoir) and a fish ladder that provides passage for alewives. Thick emergent vegetation (e.g. purple loosestrife) has clogged this area, and may affect the movement of andronomous fisheries. Residential development (including vegetation clearing activities) encroaches on west side of FHB (structures within 100 ft.) downstream of the stream section. Vegetated buffers along the stream have generally been impacted in these areas. Tan Brook and a drainage ditch were noted within the downstream section of "Wagner's Brook". Historic structures (e.g. old roadbed, old bridge abutments, hearth, etc.) were also observed along "Wagner's Brook".

Threats observed elsewhere along "Wagner's Brook" included (1) removal of understory vegetation along some sections of stream (particularly along downstream sections of stream adjacent to private residences); (2) invasive plant species (purple loosestrife near concrete dam and swamp loosestrife along downstream sections of "Wagner's Brook"); and (3) drainage pipe discharging storm runoff from catch basins located at the end of Eisenhower Lane."