National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

Natural Resource Stewardship and Science

Restoration of the Turning Basin and Tidal Wetlands 

at Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site

Summary Data Report for 2004 to 2014 Monitoring

Natural Resource Report NPS/SAIR/NRR—2015/1012
ON THE COVER

Photograph of the restored marsh at Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site in 2014 

Photograph courtesy of Susannah Corona, National Park Service 
Restoration of the Turning Basin and Tidal Wetlands

at Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site

Summary Data Report for 2004 to 2014 Monitoring

Natural Resource Report NPS/SAIR/NRR—2015/1012

Mary-Jane James

Graduate School of Oceanography

University of Rhode Island

215 South Ferry Road

Narragansett, RI 02864

September 2015

U.S. Department of the Interior

National Park Service

Natural Resource Stewardship and Science 

Fort Collins, Colorado
ii

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Please cite this publication as:

James, M. J. 2015. Restoration of the turning basin and tidal wetlands at Saugus Iron Works National 

Historic Site: Summary data report for 2004 to 2014 monitoring. Natural Resource Report 

NPS/SAIR/NRR—2015/1012. National Park Service, Fort Collins, Colorado.

NPS 444/129605, September 2015
iii

Contents 

Page

Figures....................................................................................................................................................v

Tables...................................................................................................................................................vii

Executive Summary..............................................................................................................................ix

Acknowledgments.................................................................................................................................xi

Introduction............................................................................................................................................1

Vegetation planting ........................................................................................................................7

Vegetation sampling.......................................................................................................................7

Nekton sampling.............................................................................................................................8

Rainbow smelt and American eel sampling (Section retained from James-Pirri 2013)................9

Avian community ...........................................................................................................................9

Mammals and other wildlife.........................................................................................................10

Tidal inundation of the restored marsh surface (Section retained from James-Pirri 

2013).............................................................................................................................................10

Water quality (monitored by NETN, USGS, and CH2MHill) (Section retained from 

James-Pirri 2013).........................................................................................................................11

Data collected by CH2MHill (consultant) (Section retained from James-Pirri 2013) ................11

Results and Discussion ........................................................................................................................25

Vegetation in the restored wetland...............................................................................................25

Vegetation in the natural marsh....................................................................................................25

Vegetation in the riparian berm....................................................................................................26

Aquatic vegetation........................................................................................................................42

Invasive vegetation.......................................................................................................................42

Nekton community .......................................................................................................................47

Invasive nekton.............................................................................................................................47

Rainbow smelt and American eel monitoring (Section retained from James-Pirri 

2013).............................................................................................................................................48

Avian community .........................................................................................................................60

Mammals and other wildlife.........................................................................................................61

Tidal inundation (Section retained from James-Pirri 2013)........................................................62
iv

Contents (continued)

Page

NETN water quality monitoring (Section retained from James-Pirri 2013) ...............................62

CH2MHill (consultant) data summary (Section retained from James-Pirri 2013)......................62

Tidal hydrology .......................................................................................................................62

River geomorphology..............................................................................................................62

Sediment and water quality .....................................................................................................62

Benthic invertebrate community .............................................................................................63

Summary..............................................................................................................................................75

Literature Cited ....................................................................................................................................77

Sources of Expertise ............................................................................................................................81

Appendix..............................................................................................................................................83
v

Figures 

Page

Figure 1. Aerial photographs before (left) and after (right) the Phase I of the restoration 

of the turning basin waterfront and wetland. .........................................................................................3

Figure 2. Location of pre-restoration nekton and vegetation sampling stations at Saugus 

Iron Works NHS in 2004. ....................................................................................................................12

Figure 3. Location of post-restoration sampling stations at Saugus Iron Works NHS in 

2008......................................................................................................................................................13

Figure 4. Location of post-restoration sampling stations at Saugus Iron Works NHS in 

2009......................................................................................................................................................14

Figure 5. Location of post-restoration sampling stations at Saugus Iron Works NHS in 

2010......................................................................................................................................................15

Figure 6. Location of post-restoration sampling stations at Saugus Iron Works NHS in 

2011......................................................................................................................................................16

Figure 7. Location of post-restoration sampling stations at Saugus Iron Works NHS in 

2012......................................................................................................................................................17

Figure 8. Location of post-restoration sampling stations at Saugus Iron Works NHS in 

2013......................................................................................................................................................18

Figure 9. Location of post-restoration sampling stations in 2014.......................................................19

Figure 10. Locations of MA DMF smelt fyke net station...................................................................20

Figure 11. Locations of smelt egg monitoring....................................................................................21

Figure 12. Wildlife observation zones established in 2009, “*” denotes locations within 

the restoration area...............................................................................................................................22

Figure 13. Location of HOBO water level loggers (2012 deployment) and YSI water 

level and water quality sonde (CH2MHill deployment location in all years). ....................................23

Figure 14. Number of plant species observed in the restored wetland interior and along 

the upland edge ....................................................................................................................................33

Figure 15. Species dominating the restored marsh (average percent cover calculated from 

mid-point values). ................................................................................................................................33

Figure 16. Photos of the restored wetland in 2009 to 2014 ................................................................34

Figure 17. Abundance of horned pondweed (Zannichella palustris) at Saugus Iron Works 

NHS......................................................................................................................................................45

Figure 18. Percent of catch of fish (only common fish species are shown) sampled with a 

throw trap from the turning basin (top graph) and river (bottom graph) at Saugus Iron 

Works NHS..........................................................................................................................................51
vi

Figures (continued)

Page

Figure 19. Mean lengths (mm ± SD) of common fish sampled at Saugus Iron Works 

NHS with throw traps and seines during pre-restoration (2004) and post-restoration (2008 

to 2014) monitoring .............................................................................................................................58

Figure 20. Rainbow smelt catch (number of individuals collected) at SAIR from 2005-

2011......................................................................................................................................................60

Figure 21. Number of waterbird species observed before restoration (2002-2003) and 

after (2008-2014, NETN and Park Wildlife data combined) the restoration of the turning 

basin and restored wetland...................................................................................................................69

Figure 22. Tidal water inundation on the restored marsh surface for low marsh areas (top 

graph) and areas closer to the upland edge (bottom graph).................................................................72

Figure 23. Salinity recorded by YSI sonde (graph excerpted from CH2MHill 2013)........................73

Figure 24. Tidal water inundation on the restored marsh surface (Data from HOBO 1) 

overlaid on CH2MHill YSI water level and salinity data for the Saugus River..................................74
vii

Tables

Page

Table 1. Sampling dates and parameters for restoration monitoring at SAIR collected by 

the NPS and URI....................................................................................................................................4

Table 2. Species, average Braun-Blanquet1 score and average percent cover for 

vegetation sampled at Saugus Iron Works NHS in 2004 (pre-restoration)..........................................27

Table 3. Species, average Braun-Blanquet1 score and average percent cover for 

vegetation sampled at Saugus Iron Works NHS from 2009-2014 (post-restoration) in the 

restored wetland...................................................................................................................................28

Table 4. Species, average Braun-Blanquet score and average percent cover for vegetation 

sampled in the natural marsh at Saugus Iron Works NHS from 2009-2014........................................35

Table 5. Plants observed on the streamside riparian berm in 2009 and 2011. ....................................40

Table 6. Aquatic vegetation species list, average Braun-Blanquet score, and percent of 

sampling stations where observed at Saugus Iron Works NHS in 2004 (pre-restoration) 

and 2008 to 2014 (post-restoration).....................................................................................................44

Table 7. List of Massachusetts state-listed invasive plants observed during vegetation 

sampling at SAIR (2004-2014)............................................................................................................46

Table 8. Nekton sampled during pre-restoration monitoring (2004) and post-restoration 

monitoring (2008 to 2014) at Saugus Iron Works NHS ......................................................................49

Table 9. Nekton composition collected with a throw trap in the river at Saugus Iron 

Works NHS during pre-restoration monitoring (2004) and post-restoration monitoring 

(2008 to 2012)......................................................................................................................................52

Table 10. Nekton composition collected with a throw trap in the turning basin at Saugus 

Iron Works NHS during pre-restoration monitoring (2004) and post-restoration 

monitoring (2008 to 2014)...................................................................................................................53

Table 12. Nekton composition collected with a seine in the turning basin at Saugus Iron 

Works NHS during pre-restoration monitoring (2004) and post-restoration monitoring 

(2008 to 2014)......................................................................................................................................56

Table 13. Environmental data (average ± SD) associated with nekton sampling (sampling 

occurred during ebb tides). Sample size is given after location...........................................................59

Table 14. List of exotic and native transplant nekton (species native to the U.S. that have 

been introduced to areas outside of their original range) recorded during sampling...........................60

Table 15. Birds observed at SAIR from 2008 to 2014 during NETN monitoring and park 

wildlife observations............................................................................................................................64

Table 16. Species observed in the restoration area during the wildlife observation 

program (2009 to 2012) and incidental observations (2013 to 2014) at Saugus Iron Works..............70

Table 17. Water quality measurements from NETN monitoring........................................................71

ix

Executive Summary 

In 2007, the National Park Service initiated a restoration program at Saugus Iron Works National 

Historic Site (SAIR) to restore the historic turning basin and wetland area adjacent to the Saugus 

River. To fulfill regulatory requirements and enhance understanding of tidal freshwater wetland 

restoration practices, an intensive pre- and post-restoration monitoring program was implemented. 

This report summarizes monitoring data collected prior to the restoration (2004) and the six years 

(2008 to 2014) following the restoration, and includes summaries for vegetation, nekton, and wildlife 

observations. The purpose of this report is to present the data with only limited data analyses and 

interpretation provided. Several sections of this report were retained from the 2008-2012 Final 

Report (James-Pirri 2013) that provided statistical analyses of some monitoring variables from 2004 

to 2012 (e.g., vegetation and nekton) and also incorporated findings from CH2MHill surveys (e.g., 

water quality, benthic invertebrates). Note that this is only an INTERIM report and results and 

interpretation may change pending the collection of future monitoring data. The Final Report, 

scheduled for submission in the fall of 2017, will provide extensive statistical analyses, 

interpretation, and syntheses for all monitoring years (2004 to 2016). Information contained herein 

are to inform stakeholders of the progress of the restoration monitoring, summarize monitoring data, 

document pertinent findings, and to assist with any adaptive management plans or actions associated 

with the restoration. 

The restoration of the historic turning basin and wetlands succeeded in removing invasive vegetation 

and establishing a tidal mud flat/low marsh along the Saugus River. After restoration (2009-2012), 

the dominant plant on the restored marsh was dwarf spike rush (Eleocharis parvula) a native plant 

tolerant of fresh to brackish water conditions; however, in recent years (2013-2014) the abundance of 

this plant has decreased and bare ground/algal mat has increased. The upland edge of the restored 

marsh had a diverse assemblage of wetland plants. The dominant aquatic plant in the river was 

horned pondweed (Zannichella palustris) which has gradually increased in cover since the 

restoration. This aquatic plant is also commonly found in the turning basin, along with other 

submerged aquatic species. Some invasive plants have been observed in the restoration area since 

2008, with the most notable being purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria).

Since the restoration, the nekton community in the Saugus River has transitioned from a mostly 

freshwater community to a brackish-estuarine community. Common nekton include four-spine 

stickleback (Apeltus quadracus), white sucker (Catostomus commersoni), and mummichog 

(Fundulus heteroclitus). In the turning basin, young-of-the-year American eel (Anguilla rostrata) 

were common in all years. The mummichog (Fundulus heteroclitus) has become increasingly 

abundant in recent years. A few individuals of freshwater species were still sampled each year (e.g., 

largemouth bass [Micropterus salmoides], redfin pickerel [Esox americanus americanus]). Upstream 

movement of tidal estuarine water has occurred since the restoration, especially during high tides and 

periods of low river flow. The intrusion of saline water to the upper reach of the Saugus River at 

SAIR is likely a primary factor responsible for the change from a primarily freshwater nekton 

community (before the restoration) to a brackish/estuarine community in the years following the 

restoration.
x

The restored turning basin and marsh increased the amount of open water and created extensive tidal 

mud flats that provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including waterbirds which have increased 

since the restoration. Other wildlife observed in the restoration area included six amphibian/reptile 

and 11 mammal species. 

Regarding water quality (data from 2006-2012), temperature and dissolved oxygen occasionally 

exceeded recommended thresholds for Class SB estuarine waters and elevated values for nutrients 

(nitrogen and phosphorus) have been observed. In general, the concentration of contaminants in the 

river sediments has decreased since the restoration, although the Hilsenhoff Biotic Index for benthic 

invertebrate communities (2011 and 2012 data) ranged from fair to very poor and indicated 

significant organic pollution was present in the Saugus River at SAIR. 
xi

Acknowledgments 

Many thanks to National Park Service (NPS) staff who assisted with logistics and sampling: Marc 

Albert, Amanda Babson, Robin Baranowski, Courtney Bednaz, Julie Bloch, Cindy Chu, Susannah 

Corona, Liz Eddy, Matt Holt, Chris Keon, Nate Gavin, Julie Markus, Christine McNiff, Andrew 

Neil, Erika Patenaude, Andrew Petit de Mange, Ashley Pipkin, Jake Plotnick, Charles Roman, Peter 

Sharpe, Marina Welch, and Valerie Wilcox; Student Conservation Association interns and graduate 

students: Kelly Bowman, Sarah Corman, Michelle Fabie, Christopher Guy, Nikki Kirkton, Tessa 

Mosher, Stacy Ng, Kelly Racette, and Meg Swecker; and volunteers: Eric Devlin and Alexis 

Truesdell Naydenov. Thanks are also extended to Brian Mitchell and William Gawley who provided 

additional NPS data. Charles Roman and Marc Albert kindly provided guidance and assistance with 

all phases of the project. Karsten Hartel, of the Harvard Museum of Comparative Zoology, verified 

identification of fish specimens.

1

Introduction 

Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site (SAIR), located approximately 16 km north of Boston on 

the upper reaches of the Saugus River estuary, preserves the site of the first sustained iron works of 

North America. The iron works was in operation from 1646 to 1668 and was critical in the 

development of America’s iron manufacturing legacy (NPS 2006). Raw materials were delivered to 

the iron work’s wharf by shallow draft boats navigating the Saugus River while finished products 

were transported down the river bound for Boston and beyond (NPS 2006). 

In the late 1950’s, a breach of an upstream dam at Prankers Pond caused extensive sedimentation and 

siltation of the historic turning basin, waterfront, and wharf area of the iron works (NPS 2006). Over 

time the silted turning basin was colonized by invasive plants and the southern wetland lining the 

Saugus River became choked with undesirable vegetation such as common reed (Phragmites 

australis) and other exotic species (Agius 2003, CH2MHill 2005). A few hundred meters 

downstream of the park a partial impediment to natural estuarine tidal flow was the Hamilton Street 

weir. The weir, built in 1954 as part of the parkland that was a precursor to the National Historical 

Site, artificially maintained water levels at the iron works. The Saugus River is a pivotal landscape 

feature of the historic setting and cultural interpretation of the park, and in the fall of 2007, a project 

was initiated to restore the turning basin and remove much of the invasive vegetation from the 

wetland bordering the river (Figure 1). The goals of the restoration included excavating contaminated 

sediment in the turning basin to restore the open water condition, removing invasive exotic plants, 

improving water quality, replacing the wharf and bulkhead, and restoring the river to a more suitable 

habitat for aquatic and terrestrial organisms (CH2MHill 2005). Phase I of the restoration project 

restored the open water area of the turning basin while Phase II removed invasive vegetation and 

restored the native freshwater wetland along the river and this area is referred to as the restored 

wetland throughout this report. The Hamilton Street weir was removed in the fall of 2009, as a 

mitigation permit condition for the restoration of the turning basin waterfront and wetland. This is 

one of the first tidal freshwater wetland restoration projects in New England. The Saugus River, from 

Bridge Street at SAIR to Lincoln Avenue/Boston Street, in Saugus/Lynn, is designated by the EPA as 

an estuarine Class SB waterbody. Class SB waters are designated as a “habitat for fish, other aquatic 

life and wildlife, including for their reproduction, migration, growth and other critical functions, and 

for primary and secondary contact recreation. In certain waters, habitat for fish, other aquatic life 

and wildlife may include, but is not limited to, seagrass. Where designated in the tables to 314 CMR 

4.00 for shellfishing, these waters shall be suitable for shellfish harvesting with depuration 

(Restricted and Conditionally Restricted Shellfish Areas). These waters shall have consistently good 

aesthetic value” (Massachusetts Water Quality Standards 314 CMR 4.0). 

To satisfy regulatory requirements, guide any necessary adaptive management actions, and to 

enhance understanding of tidal freshwater wetland restoration practices, the National Park Service 

(NPS), in collaboration with university researchers and a consulting firm, CH2MHill, studied the 

restoration area for five years (2008 to 2012), with some monitoring continuing (e.g., nekton and 

vegetation continuing from 2013-2016). Research and monitoring followed protocols developed and 

utilized by the NPS Northeast Coastal and Barrier Network, NPS Northeast Temperate Network 
2

(James-Pirri et al. 2012, James-Pirri et al. In Review), and the environmental firm CH2MHill (2005). 

The monitoring program was conducted cooperatively by CH2MHill, NPS staff, and the University 

of Rhode Island.

This report presents six years of post-restoration (2008 to 2014, Table 1) monitoring data for 

vegetation and nekton and includes wildlife observations from 2008-2014. Only limited data analyses 

and interpretation are provided. Selected sections from the 2008-2012 Summary Report (James-Pirri 

2013) were retained in this report for completeness. Information from other monitoring efforts by 

CH2MHill were also retained where appropriate. The complete CH2MHill monitoring reports that 

summarized physical variables (tidal hydrology, river geomorphology, sediment, and water quality) 

and benthic invertebrate community, collected in 2008, 2010, and 2012, are available upon request 

(CH2MHill 2009, 2011, 2013). Note that this is only an INTERIM report and results and 

interpretation may change pending the collection of future monitoring data. The Final Report, 

scheduled for submission in the fall of 2017, will provide extensive statistical analyses, 

interpretation, and syntheses for all monitoring years (2004 to 2016). 

Information from the 2004 monitoring report of salt marsh vegetation and riverine nekton conducted 

in conjunction with the NPS Inventory and Monitoring Program (James-Pirri 2004) has been 

excerpted and is included in this report in an effort to describe the pre-restoration conditions for 

wetland vegetation and riverine nekton. Also included in this report are data from the NPS Northeast 

Temperate Network Breeding Landbird monitoring and water quality monitoring and Massachusetts 

Division of Marine Fisheries smelt and eel sampling on the Saugus River.
3

Figure 1. Aerial photographs before (left) and after (right) the Phase I of the restoration of the turning basin waterfront and wetland.
4

Table 1. Sampling dates and parameters for restoration monitoring at SAIR collected by the NPS and 

URI.

Sampling year and variable Sampling date Number of stations sampled

2004 (pre-restoration)

Vegetation, turning basin 13 July 2004 16

Vegetation, southern marsh 13 July 2004 14

Aquatic vegetation, river 12 July 2004 12

Nekton, river throw traps 9 June & 4 August 2004 32 (16 stations on each date)

Nekton, river seine hauls 5, 11 August & 2 September 2004 7

2008

Aquatic vegetation, turning basin 18 & 23 September 2008 11

Aquatic vegetation, river 18 & 23 September 2008 15

Nekton, river throw traps 23 September 2008 15

Nekton, river seine hauls 23 September 2008 6

Nekton, turning basin throw traps 18 September 2008 11

Nekton, turning basin seine hauls 18 September 2008 3

NETN avian monitoring 11 July 2008 3

NETN water quality monitoring 5 May & 20 Aug 2008 3

2009

Vegetation, natural marsh 13 October 2009 17

Vegetation, restored wetland 11 September 2009 53

Aquatic vegetation, turning basin 15 July & 14-15 September 2009 21 (10-11 during each period)

Aquatic vegetation, river 15 July & 14-15 September 2009 27 (14 during each period)

Nekton, river throw traps 15 July & 14-15 September 2009 28 (14 during each period)

Nekton, river seine hauls 15 July & 14-15 September 2009 11 (5-6 during each period)

Nekton, turning basin throw traps 15 July & 14-15 September 2009 21 (10-11 during each period)

Nekton, turning basin seine hauls 15 July & 14-15 September 2009 6 (3 during each period)

NETN avian monitoring 4, 10, & 18 June 2009 3 (sampled each day)

NETN water quality monitoring 8 May & 20 Aug 2009 3

Park wildlife monitoring June 3-Dec 26, 2009 48 observation days

2010

Vegetation, natural marsh 19 September 2010 18

Vegetation, restored wetland 19 September 2010 48

Aquatic vegetation, turning basin 19 July & 1 September 2010 15 (7-8 during each period)

Aquatic vegetation, river 19 July & 1 September 2010 33 (16-17 during each period)

Nekton, river throw traps 19 July & 1 September 2010 33 (16-17 during each period)

Nekton, river seine hauls 19 July & 1 September 2010 12 (6 during each period)

Nekton, turning basin throw traps 19 July & 1 September 2010 15 (7-8 during each period)

Nekton, turning basin seine hauls 19 July & 1 September 2010 6 (3 during each period)

NETN avian monitoring 8 & 15 June 2010 3 (sampled each day)

NETN water quality monitoring 24 May & 10 Aug 2009 3

Park wildlife monitoring May 1-Oct 3, 2010 19 observation days

2011

Vegetation, natural marsh 8-9 September, 2011 18

Vegetation, restored wetland 8-9 September, 2011 47

Aquatic vegetation, turning basin 7-8 July & 6 September 2011 22 (10-12 during each period)

Aquatic vegetation, river 7-8 July & 6 September 2011 33 (16-17 during each period)
5

Table 1. Sampling dates and parameters for restoration monitoring at SAIR collected by the NPS and 

URI (continued).

Sampling year and variable Sampling date Number of stations sampled

2011 (continued)

Nekton, river throw traps 7-8 July & 6 September 2011 33 (16-17 during each period)

Nekton, river seine hauls 7-8 July & 6 September 2011 12 (6 during each period)

Nekton, turning basin throw traps 7-8 July & 6 September 2011 22 (10-12 during each period)

Nekton, turning basin seine hauls 7-8 July & 6 September 2011 8 (4 during each period)

NETN avian monitoring 14 & 22 June, 2011 3 (sampled each day)

NETN water quality monitoring Data not yet available Data not yet available

Park wildlife monitoring 17 April-10 December, 2011 44 observations days & 89 

incidental days

2012

Vegetation, natural marsh 5-6 September 2012 19

Vegetation, restored wetland 5-6 September 2012 54

Aquatic vegetation, turning basin 10-11 July & 6-7 September 2012 22 (9-13 during each period)

Aquatic vegetation, river 10-11 July & 6-7 September 2012 34 (17 during each period)

Nekton, river throw traps 10-11 July & 6-7 September 2012 34 (17 during each period)

Nekton, river seine hauls 10-11 July & 6-7 September 2012 11 (5-6 during each period)

Nekton, turning basin throw traps 10-11 July & 6-7 September 2012 22 (9-13 during each period)

Nekton, turning basin seine hauls 10-11 July & 6-7 September 2012 7 (3-4 during each period)

NETN avian monitoring 2012 (dates not given in annual report) 2 surveys

NETN water quality monitoring 16 May & 16 Aug, 2012 2 

Park wildlife monitoring 18 February – 16 December 2012 56 observations days & 38 

incidental days

2013

Vegetation, natural marsh 11-12 September 2013 18 plots

Vegetation, restored wetland 11-12 September 2013 53 plots

Aquatic vegetation, turning basin 15-16 July & 9-12 September 2013 21 (10-11 during each period)

Aquatic vegetation, river 15-16 July & 9-10 September 2013 30 (15 during each period)

Nekton, river throw traps 15-16 July & 9-10 September 2013 30 (15 during each period)

Nekton, river seine hauls 15-16 July & 9-12 September 2013 10 (5 during each period)

Nekton, turning basin throw traps 15-16 July & 9-12 September 2013 21 (10-11 during each period)

Nekton, turning basin seine hauls 15-16 July & 9-12 September 2013 7 (3-4 during each period)

Park wildlife monitoring Various dates year-round Incidental observations

2014

Vegetation, natural marsh 15-16 September 2014 19 plots

Vegetation, restored wetland 15-17 September 2014 50 plots

Aquatic vegetation, turning basin 17 July & 17 September 2014 18 (7-11 during each period)

Aquatic vegetation, river 17 July & 17 September 2014 29 (14-15 during each period)

Nekton, river throw traps 17 July & 17 September 2014 29 (14-15 during each period)

Nekton, river seine hauls 17 July & 17 September 2014 10 (5 during each period)

Nekton, turning basin throw traps 17 July & 17 September 2014 18 (7-11 during each period)

Nekton, turning basin seine hauls 17 July & 15 September 2014 5 (3-2 during each period)

Park wildlife monitoring Various dates year-round Incidental observations

7

Methods

Vegetation planting

Following the excavation and removal of the Phragmites-dominated area along the Saugus River, the 

newly created wetland was planted with native freshwater wetland vegetation in October 2008. A 

streamside riparian buffer zone was established on the constructed gravel/cobble berm that separates 

the river channel from the turning basin. This 0.01-ha area was planted with 51 shrubs from four 

species, along with 350 sedge (Carex species) plants (NPS 2005). More than 15,000 plants from four 

species were planted in the 0.54-ha low marsh zone and 165 plants from 12 species were planted in 

the 0.07-ha high marsh zone (NPS 2005). The low marsh planting also included distribution of cotton 

mesh bags containing gravel and a pinch of wild rice seeds (Zizania aquatica), which is difficult to 

grow from transplants because of its weak, floating stems. Due to low survivorship of all species 

from the 2008 planting, a full second round of 15,000 plantings was conducted in July 2010.

Vegetation sampling

Quantitative vegetation monitoring of the restoration area (turning basin and southern salt marsh 

area) was conducted following protocols of the NPS Northeast Coastal and Barrier Network (Roman 

et al. 2001, James-Pirri et al. In Review). Vegetation, including intertidal freshwater marsh and 

submerged aquatic vegetation, was sampled once per year at the end of the growing season in late 

summer/early fall. Vegetation was sampled in a minimum of 30, 1-m2 plots that were randomly 

located along transects throughout the restoration area and in the small natural marsh just south of the 

restored turning basin (James-Pirri et al. 2007). Species composition and species cover/abundance 

were recorded for each 1-m2 plot. In additional to live vegetation, non-vegetative covers were also 

recoded (e.g., bare ground, open water, rock, wrack and litter). Estimates of percent cover were 

determined using a modified Braun-Blanquet (1965) visual cover scale method. For this method the 

observer stands over the plot and visually estimates the cover of each species present in the plot. 

Cover was estimated using standard cover classes as follows: 0: absent; 1: <1%; 2: 1-5%; 3: 6-25%; 

4: 26-50%; 5: 51-75%; 6: 76-100%. In statistical analyses, the Braun-Blanquet data were analyzed as 

ordinal data. The percent cover of each species was also calculated by converting Braun-Blanquet 

values to the midpoint of the percent range (<1%= 0.5%, 1-5%=2.5%, 6-25%=15.5%, 26-50%=38%, 

57-75%=63%, 76-100%=88%). 

Submerged aquatic vegetation cover in the river was estimated during nekton throw trap sampling. 

Percent cover of aquatic vegetation was estimated using a modified Braun-Blanquet (1965) visual 

cover scale method in 1-m2 plots randomly located throughout the river and in the restored turning 

basin.

Pre-restoration vegetation monitoring of the silted turning basin and wetlands was conducted on in 

2004 as part of the NPS Inventory and Monitoring Program (Table 1, Figure 2). Post-restoration 

vegetation monitoring occurred in the fall of 2009 to 2014 in the restored and planted wetland 

adjacent to the Saugus River and in two small natural wetland areas that were not part of the restored 

wetland (post-restoration vegetation monitoring did not occur in 2008 as the restored marsh was 

newly planted) (Figures 3 to 9). 
8

Pre-restoration aquatic vegetation sampling was conducted in 2004 in the river (Table 1, Figure 2). 

Post-restoration monitoring of aquatic vegetation was conducted 2008 to 2014 with plots sampled in 

both the restored turning basin and the river (Table 1, Figures 3 to 9).

In 2011, at the request of NPS staff, a rapid survey was conducted to document plants observed on 

the streamside riparian berm (a previous survey was conducted by New England Environmental Inc. 

in 2009). The berm area was surveyed in August 2011 by walking the area and recording observed 

plants with the aim of providing Park resource managers with a species list for the berm. The species 

list represents the majority of plants on the berm, but was not a complete list of all species that were 

present in 2011.

Nekton sampling

The nekton community of the turning basin and the Saugus River was monitored following protocols 

of the NPS Northeast Coastal and Barrier Network (Raposa and Roman 2001, James-Pirri et al. 

2012). Nekton were sampled twice per year, once in mid-summer and once in late summer/early fall, 

on low or ebbing tides. Quantitative data on nekton composition and abundance (density) were 

collected using a 1-m2 throw trap at a minimum of 15 stations randomly located throughout the 

turning basin and 15 river stations (Raposa et al. 2003). The sampling area was limited to locations 

with standing water present at ebbing tide conditions, but not higher than the top of the side walls of 

the trap (0.5-m high) (i.e., the deeper portions of the river channel and the deeper areas in the turning 

basin were excluded). The throw trap was an enclosure sampler that has excellent efficiency and 

provides quantitative, repeatable results (Kushlan 1981, Sogard and Able 1991, Rozas and Minello 

1997). The trap had an open top and bottom (0.5-m in height and 1-m square) with the sides covered 

by 3-mm wire mesh. The trap was thrown into water and captured any nekton in the 1-m2 area of the 

trap. All nekton were collected from the trap with a 1-mm mesh dip net that fitted snuggly within the 

trap. The trap was considered empty when three successive attempts with the dip net produced no 

organisms (refer to James-Pirri et al. 2102 for complete details on gear and sampling protocol).

Average density of nekton from throw trap samples was estimated as the number of individuals per 

m2

. Relative abundance was calculated as the percent catch of each species standardized to 100% for 

throw trap samples.

Qualitative samples of nekton were also collected using a seine (6-m seine with bag, 3-mm mesh) at 

a minimum of five random locations throughout the turning basin and 5 in the river system as 

ancillary information on the nekton community. Seine hauls were taken in order to achieve a more 

complete species list by attempting to catch faster swimming fishes that may have avoided the throw 

trap. Seine data are presented as average number of individuals per seine haul.

At each station (both throw trap and seine stations), all nekton were identified and enumerated. A 

representative number (up to 15 individuals) of each species collected were measured for length 

(total length for fish and shrimp, carapace width for crabs). Once identified and measured all 

organisms were returned to the water. Physical variables (water temperature [o

C], salinity [ppt], and 

dissolved oxygen [mg/L]) were recorded at each nekton sampling station with a YSI unit (model 85) 

at the time of sampling (during ebb tide).
9

Pre-restoration nekton throw trap and seine sampling was conducted in 2004 in the Saugus River 

(Table 1, Figure 2). Five of the seven seine hauls in 2004 were made immediately north of the 

Hamilton Street Bridge and these data were not included in the comparison of data from other years 

as they were further downstream than sampling occurred in later years. Post-restoration nekton 

sampling in the restored turning basin and Saugus River was conducted from 2008-2014 (Table 1, 

Figures 3 to 12).

Rainbow smelt and American eel sampling (Section retained from James-Pirri 2013)

The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (MA DMF), in conjunction with the Saugus River 

Watershed Council, has sampled rainbow smelt (Osmerus mordax) and young-of-year (YOY) 

American eel (Anguilla rostrata) at SAIR from 2005 to 2011. Rainbow smelt were sampled using a 

fyke net (6-mm delta mesh, 0.8-m hoop entrance, and 1-m wings) set in the intertidal zone below the 

downstream limit of smelt egg deposition (Figure 10). Nets were set overnight, facing upstream, 

three times per week from early March through late May (Chase et al. 2007). The smelt fyke net was 

located just south of the restored turning basin from 2005 to 2010. In 2011, the sampling location 

was re-located further south in the vicinity of the sewer pipe that crosses the Saugus River at the 

park’s southern boundary (Figure 11). MA DMF moved the fyke net due to concerns that changes in

the river’s bottom topography from 2008 to 2010 decreased the gear’s sampling efficiency and 

biased the data. MA DMF discontinued smelt sampling as of 2012.

In early spring of 2011 and 2012, the Saugus River at SAIR was monitored for the presence of smelt

eggs (Welch and Albert 2011; LeBlanc 2012). The river was divided into sections and surveys were 

modeled after Chase (2006) (Figure 11). Briefly, the river bed substrate was sampled with mesh 

baskets and the substrate was examined for the presence of smelt eggs. The presence or absence of 

eggs, viability (dead or viable eggs), and location were recorded. Once egg deposition was observed, 

sampling efforts were expanded both upstream and downstream until the limit of egg deposition was 

recorded. The objective of this sampling was to determine the distribution of smelt egg deposition in 

the Saugus River, not to provide an estimate of egg densities. 

American eel were sampled by the Saugus River Watershed Council annually using Sheldon elver 

traps from 2005 to 2011. Sampling occurred from the first week of April to the first week of June. 

These data have yet not been summarized as of April 2015.

Avian community

Birds were monitored in the park by volunteers (coordinated by NPS staff) following the guidelines 

of the NPS Northeast Temperate Network (NETN) Breeding Landbird Monitoring Protocol (Faccio 

et al. 2010). Birds were monitored using variable circular plot (VCP) point counts at three 

observation stations (Figure 3 to Figure 8). At each station, all birds seen or heard were recorded 

during 10-minute point counts. Birds were surveyed twice annually, with replicates occurring within 

7-14 days of each other (Faccio et al. 2010). The NETN does not differentiate the specific locale 

(e.g., restoration area, manicured lawn, etc.) where birds were observed, so these data may include 

detections outside of the restoration area. The avian community of SAIR was also surveyed in 2002 

and 2003 by the NETN (Trocki and Paton 2005). During these surveys three VCP stations were 
10

randomly located in the park (one each in the forest and wetland areas and one in a developed area) 

(Trocki and Paton 2005). 

Wildlife observations, including birds, were recorded during the systematic wildlife observation 

program that was implemented from 2009 to 2012 as part of the post-restoration monitoring of the 

turning basin (McNiff and Albert 2010, Albert and Bloch 2011, Welch and Albert 2012, Albert et al. 

in prep.). Observations of wildlife were conducted during all tide conditions, times of day, and 

locations in and adjacent to the restoration area. Briefly, wildlife observation data were collected at a 

range of stationary points at least once a day, three days a week for 30 to 90 minutes from summer 

through early fall, and incidental observations were collected throughout the year (McNiff and Albert 

2010). Wildlife observations were recorded in ten wildlife observation zones (Figure 12); however, 

only data from the restoration area (high marsh, low marsh, mudflat, turning basin, river channel, and 

berm/riffle zones) are presented herein for the 2009 to 2012 data. Due to staff constraints wildlife 

observations in 2013 to 2014 were recorded informally when sightings of birds and other wildlife 

were noted when possible or in the course of other activities (e.g., invasive plant control, trail 

maintenance) (S. Corona, personal communication, 27 April 2015). During these informal 

observations the zones (as described above) were not recorded. These data were presented herein 

with this caveat.

Mammals and other wildlife

Sightings of mammals and other wildlife (not including birds) incidentally observed in the restoration 

area during the course of monitoring activities and sightings from other observers (e.g., park staff, 

consulting contractor). Coincident with the systematic avian observations, other observed wildlife 

(e.g., mammals, reptiles, amphibians) were recorded in the 10 wildlife observations zones (McNiff 

and Albert 2010; Albert and Bloch 2011; Welch and Albert 2012; Albert et al. in prep). Only wildlife 

observed in the restoration area (high marsh, low marsh, mudflat, turning basin, river channel, and 

berm/riffle zones, Figure 12) are reported herein for 2009 to 2012. Similarly to the bird observations, 

incidental observations of other wildlife were recorded informally in 2013 and 2014 (S. Corona, 

personal communication, 27 April 2015), and zones were not noted. These data were presented 

herein with this caveat.

Tidal inundation of the restored marsh surface (Section retained from James-Pirri 2013)

To determine frequency and depth of tidal inundation of the restored marsh, four HOBO® water 

loggers were deployed on the surface of the restored marsh from 6 September to 2 October, 2012. 

Water level loggers were laid horizontal on the marsh surface, secured with lawn staples, and were 

located in proximity to vegetation transects in the northern and southern portions of the restored 

marsh, at ~ 10 m and 30 m from the river’s edge (Figure 13). All water level data were corrected for 

atmospheric pressure from a fifth logger placed outside staff offices at SAIR. Elevation of the marsh 

surface where the water loggers were located was obtained from an RTK GPS unit. RTK data were 

relative to NAVD88 and were corrected to mean low water (1.678 m) height using the tidal datum 

from Boston Harbor, Boston, MA, tide gage (NOAA-NOS 2013).
11

Water quality (monitored by NETN, USGS, and CH2MHill) (Section retained from James-Pirri 

2013)

Water-quality was monitored at SAIR by the NETN as part of the National Park Service Inventory 

and Monitoring Program following the Lakes and Streams Water Quality Protocol (Lombard et al. 

2006). Samples were collected annually in May and August in the Saugus River (at the USGS stream 

gage 01102345, latitude 42.4693861, longitude -71.0071722) and in the restored turning basin 

(latitude 42.4688833, longitude -71.0077000). A YSI 600XL sonde was used in situ to measure 

temperature, pH, specific conductance, and dissolved oxygen. Water samples were analyzed for acid 

neutralizing capacity (ANC), color, and nutrients (phosphorus and nitrogen) at the University of 

Maine’s Sawyer Environmental Chemistry Research Laboratory (Gawley 2012, Note: no information 

was noted concerning tidal stage of when these data were collected. Tidal stage [e.g., ebb, flood, 

slack] could influence water quality parameters taken in the turning basin). From 2007 through 2012 

nutrient chemistry samples were taken from both sites, although YSI sonde measurements were 

collected only at the turning basin, likely due to misinterpretation of protocol instructions (Gawley 

2012, W. Gawley personal communication, email 5 April 2013). Given the low sampling frequency 

(one sampling event in May and one in August), these data should be interpreted with caution.

The USGS has operated a continuous-record stream flow-gage just upstream of tidal influence on the 

Saugus River since 1994. Instantaneous discharge data are available on the USGS website and are 

summarized in annual USGS data reports (USGS 01102345 Saugus River at Saugus, MA available 

at: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/ma/nwis/nwisman/?site_no=01102345). 

CH2MHill has operated a YSI sonde in the tidal portion of the Saugus River just south of the turning 

basin (Figure 13). These data are part of the joint monitoring of the restoration project and are 

presented in the progress reports produced by CH2MHill (2009, 2011, 2013).

Data collected by CH2MHill (consultant) (Section retained from James-Pirri 2013)

CH2MHill, a consulting company, was contracted by the NPS to monitor additional parameters 

during the post-restoration period. Those parameters were:

• Tidal hydrology (water surface elevation and salinity);

• River geomorphology (cross-sectional dimensions and substrate composition);

• Sediment and water quality; and

• Benthic invertebrate community.

CH2MHill collected data on these parameters in 2008, 2010, and 2012 and produced summary 

monitoring reports that were submitted to the NPS (CH2MHill 2009, 2013, 2013). Sampling 

methodology and other details were provided in the CH2MHill reports, and are not repeated herein. 

When appropriate, results from the CH2MHill monitoring were included in this report.
12

Figure 2. Location of pre-restoration nekton and vegetation sampling stations at Saugus Iron Works NHS 

in 2004 (imagery from MassGIS, 2001 Color Ortho Imagery).
13

Figure 3. Location of post-restoration sampling stations at Saugus Iron Works NHS in 2008. Note: 

vegetation was not sampled in 2008 (imagery from MassGIS, 2013 USGS Color Ortho Imagery).
14

Figure 4. Location of post-restoration sampling stations at Saugus Iron Works NHS in 2009 (imagery 

from MassGIS, 2013 USGS Color Ortho Imagery).
15

Figure 5. Location of post-restoration sampling stations at Saugus Iron Works NHS in 2010 (imagery 

from MassGIS, 2013 USGS Color Ortho Imagery).
16

Figure 6. Location of post-restoration sampling stations at Saugus Iron Works NHS in 2011 (imagery 

from MassGIS, 2013 USGS Color Ortho Imagery).
17

Figure 7. Location of post-restoration sampling stations at Saugus Iron Works NHS in 2012 (imagery 

from MassGIS, 2013 USGS Color Ortho Imagery).
18

Figure 8. Location of post-restoration sampling stations at Saugus Iron Works NHS in 2013 (imagery 

from MassGIS, 2013 USGS Color Ortho Imagery).
19

Figure 9. Location of post-restoration sampling stations in 2014 (imagery from MassGIS, 2013 USGS 

Color Ortho Imagery).
20

Figure 10. Locations of MA DMF smelt fyke net station. 
21

Figure 11. Locations of smelt egg monitoring (map excerpted from Welch and Albert 2011).
22

Figure 12. Wildlife observation zones established in 2009, “*” denotes locations within the restoration 

area (figure excerpted from McNiff and Albert 2010).
23

Figure 13. Location of HOBO water level loggers (2012 deployment) and YSI water level and water 

quality sonde (CH2MHill deployment location in all years). Inset shows how HOBO loggers were deployed 

on marsh surface (imagery from MassGIS, 2013 USGS Color Ortho Imagery).

25

Results and Discussion

Vegetation in the restored wetland

Prior to restoration (2004 data) vegetation was present in the area of the former turning basin and 23 

species were identified in this location. Narrowleaf cattail (Typha angustifolia) was the most 

common representing 21% of the vegetation community (Table 2). The southern wetland was 

dominated by common reed (Phragmites australis) and accounted for 61% of the vegetation

community. Narrowleaf cattail was also abundant, comprising 12% of the vegetation. A total of 13 

species were identified in southern wetland (Table 2). Several invasive plants were also observed 

during pre-restoration monitoring (refer to Invasive Vegetation section for more detail).

In 2009, the first year of post-restoration monitoring, 21 plant species were observed in the newly 

restored and planted southern wetland adjacent to the Saugus River; while in 2010, only 13 species 

were observed (Table 3). From 2011 to 2014, the number of vegetative species ranged from 16 to 37

(52 total species observed). The differences in the number of observed species is likely due to the 

random placement of the vegetation plots in each year (as opposed to permanent plots). For example, 

the upland border of the restored wetland had high species diversity and the location and number of 

plots that randomly fell in this zone influenced the number of species recorded in each year (Figure 

14). 

In previous analyses (2009-2012, refer to James-Pirri 2013) six cover types were primarily 

responsible for the differences among years: bare ground/algal mat, dwarf spikerush (Eleocharis 

parvula), horned pondweed (Zannichella palustris), wrack, and narrowleaf cattail. From 2009 to 

2012, there was a general decrease in cover of bare/algal mat and narrowleaf cattail; while there was 

a concurrent increase in the cover of dwarf spike rush. However, in 2013 and 2014, the amount of 

bare ground/algal mat increased while the primary vegetative covers decreased (Table 3, Figure 15, 

Figure 16). In 2014, dead dwarf spike rush was apparent (~9% of the total cover on the restored 

marsh) on the restored marsh. This is a native species with medium salinity tolerance, which 

recruited to the restored wetland as it was not one of the planted species.

Vegetation in the natural marsh

The small natural wetland areas near the turning basin were a diverse community with 21 to 42 plant 

species present from 2009 to 2014 (Table 4). In general, the most common plant in these small 

natural wetlands was narrowleaf cattail (~20% to 35% cover) that was primarily located in the 

wetland on the western side of the river. Other common cover types were wrack (5-38% cover), bare 

ground (9-15% cover) and green arrow arum (Peltandra virginica) (~5% cover). In 2009, purple 

loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), an invasive plant, comprised 6% of the total cover. Purple loosestrife 

was not observed in 2010, but was recorded in 2011 to 2014 (<1% to 3% of the total cover). As 

previously mentioned, the park has conducted purple loosestrife control in some years (e.g., 2010, 

2013, 2014) thus is likely related to the decrease in cover of this species. The majority of other 

species had a percent of total cover of less than 5% (Table 4).
26

Vegetation in the riparian berm

The streamside riparian berm was planted in 2008. In 2009, five of the seven planted species were 

observed with another 26 species recorded (New England Environmental, Inc.) (Table 5). A storm 

event in April 2010, resulted in unusually high river flow, and washed out the majority of the berm 

plant community. The berm plant community recovered with 69 species recorded in 2011, including 

four that were on the 2008 planting list: speckled alder (Alnus incana spp. rugosa), tussock sedge 

(Carex stricta), silky dogwood (Cornus amomum), and swamp rose (Rosa palustris). Eight invasive 

species were observed on the berm in 2011 (Table 5) (refer to Invasive Vegetation section for more 

detail). The vegetation on the berm has not been surveyed since 2011.
27

Table 2. Species, average Braun-Blanquet1 score and average percent cover (calculated from mid-point 

values, in parentheses) for vegetation sampled at Saugus Iron Works NHS in 2004 (pre-restoration). 

Invasive or potentially invasive plants are indicated in bold type.

Scientific Name Common Name 2004 Turning Basin

(n=16 plots)

2004 Southern marsh

(n=14 plots)

Bidens tripartita Estuary beggarticks 0.1 (0.1) -

Calamagrostis canadensis Bluejoint reedgrass 0.1 (0.2) -

Callitriche species2 Water starwort species 0.1 (<0.1) -

Calystegia sepium Hedge bindweed 1.3 (6.5) 0.4 (6.3)

Eupatorium perfoliatum Common boneset 0.4 (3.3) -

Eupatorium purpureum Sweetscented joepyeweed 0.3 (2.4) -

Impatiens capensis Jewelweed 1.3 (5.0) 0.1 (0.1)

Juncus effusus Common rush 0.2 (1.0) -

Lythrum salicaria Purple loosestrife 0.6 (2.2) 0.8 (5.9)

Mikania scandens Climbing hempvine 0.5 (0.8) 0.1 (0.2)

Peltandra virginica Green arrow arum 1.1 (6.4) 0.6 (4.9)

Phalaris arundinacea Reed canary grass 0.4 (2.6) 0.3 (2.7)

Phragmites australis Common reed 0.2 (1.0) 4.1 (59.3)

Polygonum punctatum Dotted smartweed 0.1 (0.2) 0.1 (0.2)

Polygonum species Polygonum species 0.3 (0.4) 0.1 (0.2)

Pontederia cordata Pickerelweed 0.3 (0.4) 0.1 (0.2)

Robinia pseudoacacia Black locust 0.3 (3.9) -

Rosa multiflora Multiflora rose 1.0 (13.4) -

Rumex crispus Curly dock 0.1 (0.2) -

Solanum americanum American black nightshade 0.1 (<0.1) -

Sparganium americanum American bur-reed 0.3 (1.2) 0.1 (0.2)

Toxicodendron radicans Poison ivy 0.1 (0.2) 0.3 (2.7)

Typha angustifolia Narrowleaf cattail 2.4 (18.6) 1.6 (11.9)

Non-vegetative covers

Bare ground/algal mat Bare ground/algal mat 1.4 (11.6) 0.2 (1.1)

Litter/wrack Litter/wrack 1.0 (5.5) 0.3 (0.4)

1 Braun-Blanquet cover class scale (0: absent; 1: <1%; 2: 1%- 5%; 3: 6-25%; 4: 26-50%; 5: 51-75%; 

6: 76-100%). “-“ indicates species was not present.

2 Callitriche species originally identified as C. terrestris (H. Leeson, Rhode Island Natural History 

Survey, October 2009), but was confirmed to be C. stagnalis in 2012 (identified by P. Sharpe and 

R. Baranowski, September 2012). 
28

Table 3. Species, average Braun-Blanquet1 score and average percent cover (in parentheses, calculated from mid-point values) for vegetation 

sampled at Saugus Iron Works NHS from 2009-2014 (post-restoration) in the restored wetland. Also indicated are species planted in 2008 and 

planting zone2 for the restored wetland, and presence in August 2009 during site visit by New England Environmental, Inc. Location where species 

were observed (wetland interior or upland edge) is also indicated. Invasive or potentially invasive plants are indicated in bold type.

Scientific Name

Common Name 

Average BraunBlanquet score 

(percent of total cover)

Zone2

(if planted) 

and presence 

in 2009

(V, +, or -)

Plots where 

observed

(I: interior,

E: edge)

Average Braun-Blanquet1 score

(percent of total cover)

2009 

(n=53)

2010 

(n=48)

2011 

(n=47)

2012 

(n=54)

2013 

(n=53)

2014 

(n=50)

Acer negundo Boxelder - E - - - - 0.1 (1.66) -

Acer rubrum Red maple - E - - - - <0.1 (0.01) -

Acorus americanus Sweet flag HM (+) E, I <0.1 (0.06) <0.1 (0.06) 0.1 (0.87) 0.2 (0.86) <0.1 (0.30) 0.1 (1.32)

Alisma subcordatum American water plantain - E, I - - 0.1 (0.19) <0.1 (0.06) <0.1 (0.01) -

Aster species Aster species - I <0.1 (0.01) - - - <0.1 (0.35) -

Atriplex cristata Crested saltbush - E - 0.1 (0.39) 0.1 (0.33) 0.1 (0.41) - -

Atriplex patula Spear saltbush - E - - - <0.1 (0.06) <0.1 (0.06) -

Butomus umbellatus3 Flowering rush - E, I - - 0.1 (0.20) - - -

Callitriche species4 Water starwort species (V) E, I 0.9 (2.87) - 2.0 (7.98) 4.4 (1.75) <0.1 (0.07) 0.5 (1.62)

Carex lacustris Hairy sedge - E - <0.1 (0.06) - - - <0.1 (0.06)

Cicuta maculata Spotted water hemlock - E - - <0.1 (0.06) - <0.1 (0.06) -

Cucuta bulbifera Bulblet-bearing water 

hemlock - E - - - - <0.1 (0.06) -

Cyperus flavescens Yellow flatsedge - E, I - - - 0.1 (0.22) - <0.1 (0.12)

Cyperus fuscus Brown flatsedge - I - - - - 0.1 (1.01) -

Cyperus species Flatsedge species - E - - - 0.1 (0.76) - -

Eleocharis parvula Dwarf spikerush - E, I 0.1 (0.58) 1.8 (9.89) 2.6 (18.09) 3.6 (33.24) 2.1 (11.50) 2.4 (14.72)

Eleocharis species Eleocharis species - E <0.1 (0.07) - - - - -

Epilobium coloratum Purpleleaf willowherb (V) - - - - - - -

Equisetum arvense Field horsetail - E - - - <0.1 (0.29) - -

Fraxinus pennsylvanica Green ash - E - - - - <0.1 (0.01) -

Geum canadense White flowered avens (V) - - - - - -

Hibiscus moscheutos Crimsoneyed rosemallow HM (-) E, I <0.1 (0.31) - - - - -
29

Table 3. Species, average Braun-Blanquet1 score and average percent cover (in parentheses, calculated from mid-point values) for vegetation 

sampled at Saugus Iron Works NHS from 2009-2014 (post-restoration) in the restored wetland. Also indicated are species planted in 2008 and 

planting zone2 for the restored wetland, and presence in August 2009 during site visit by New England Environmental, Inc. Location where species

were observed (wetland interior or upland edge) is also indicated. Invasive or potentially invasive plants are indicated in bold type. (continued).

Scientific Name

Common Name 

Average BraunBlanquet score 

(percent of total cover)

Zone2

(if planted) 

and presence 

in 2009

(V, +, or -)

Plots where 

observed

(I: interior,

E: edge)

Average Braun-Blanquet1 score

(percent of total cover)

2009 

(n=53)

2010 

(n=48)

2011 

(n=47)

2012 

(n=54)

2013 

(n=53)

2014 

(n=50)

Holcus lanatus Common velvetgrass - E - - - - <0.1 (0.06) -

Impatiens capensis Jewelweed - E - - - <0.1 (0.06) 0.3 (1.83) -

Iris versicolor Blue flag HM (+) - - - - - - -

Iris species Iris species - E - <0.1 (0.06) - - - -

Juncus effusus5 Common rush HM (+) E - - 0.1 (0.40) - 0.2 (1.02) -

Juncus species Juncus species - E, I 0.2 (0.52) - - - - -

Leersia oryzoides Rice cut grass (V) E - - <0.1 (0.06) <0.1 (0.11) 0.1 (0.77) -

Lythrum salicaria Purple loosestrife (V) E <0.1 (0.30) - 0.1 (0.46) 0.2 (0.69) 0.2 (1.91) -

Mikania scandens Climbing hempvine - E - - - - <0.1 (0.06) -

Morus rubra Red mulberry - E - - - <0.1 (0.29) - -

Panicum 

dichotomiflorum Fall panicgrass - E - <0.1 (0.06) 0.1 (0.33) 0.2 (0.86) - 0.1 (0.43)

Panicum virgatum Switchgrass HM (-) - - - - - - -

Parthenocissus 

quinquefolia Virginia creeper - E - - - - <0.1 (0.07) -

Peltandra virginica Green arrow arum LM (+) E, I <0.1 (0.02) - <0.1 (0.06) - <0.1 (0.29) -

Persicaria amphibia Water knotweed - E - - 0.1 (0.33) - -

Persicaria 

hydropiperoides Swamp smartweed - E, I <0.1 (0.12) - - <0.1 (0.06) - -

Persicaria maculosa Spotted ladysthumb - E - - - 0.1 (0.11) - -

Phragmites australis Common reed (V) E - - - <0.1 (0.06) 0.2 (1.96) <0.1 (0.06)

Plantago major Common plantain - E - - - 0.1 (0..34) - 0.1 (0.43)

Plantago virginica Virginia plantain - E - - <0.1 (0.06) - - -

Pluchea odorata var. 

succulenta Saltmarsh fleabane (V) E, I - - - 0.2 (0.59) 0.2 (0.93) 0.3 (1.75)

Poa pratensis Kentucky bluegrass - E - - - 0.1 (0.29) - -

Polygonum species Polygonum species (V) - - - - - - -
30

Table 3. Species, average Braun-Blanquet1 score and average percent cover (in parentheses, calculated from mid-point values) for vegetation 

sampled at Saugus Iron Works NHS from 2009-2014 (post-restoration) in the restored wetland. Also indicated are the planted native species and 

planting zone2

, for species planted in the restored wetland in 2008, and presence in August 2009 during site visit by New England Environmental, 

Inc. Location where species was observed (wetland interior or upland edge) is also indicated. Invasive or potentially invasive plants are indicated 

in bold type (continued).

Scientific Name

Common Name 

Average BraunBlanquet score 

(percent of total cover)

Zone2

(if planted) 

and presence 

in 2009

(V, +, or -)

Plots where 

observed

(I: interior,

E: edge)

Average Braun-Blanquet1 score

(percent of total cover)

2009 

(n=53)

2010 

(n=48)

2011 

(n=47)

2012 

(n=54)

2013 

(n=53)

2014 

(n=50)

Pontederia cordata Pickerelweed HM (-) E, I 0.3 (0.27) - - 0.2 (1.97) - -

Potamogeton crispus Curly pondweed - I <0.1 (0.72) - - - -

Ranunculus sceleratus Cursed buttercup (V) - - - - - - -

Rorippa palustris var. 

hispida Hispid yellowcress (V) - - - - - - -

Rumex crispus Curly dock - E - - <0.1 (0.06) 0.1 (0.06) - -

Sagittaria graminae Grassy arrowhead HM (-) - - - - - - -

Sagittaria latifolia Broadleaf arrowhead HM (+) E, I <0.1 (0.35) - <0.1 (0.06) <0.1 (0.06) - -

Sagittaria rigida Deep water duck potato LM (+) - - - - - - -

Sambucus nigra spp. 

canadensis

American black 

elderberry - E - - - 0.1 (0.29) - -

Samolus valerandi, Water-pimpernel - E, I - - <0.1 (0.06) 0.4 (2.83) 0.5 (5.16) 0.6 (5.50)

Schoenoplectus acutus Hardstem bulrush LM (+) E, I 0.4 (0.38) - - - - -

Schoenoplectus 

pungens Common threesquare HM (+) E, I 0.2 (0.42) 0.3 (1.29) 0.2 (0.48) 0.4 (1.33) <0.1 (0.11) 0.3 (1.56)

Schoenoplectus 

tabernaemontani Softstem bulrush HM (-) E, I - - 0.1 (0.13) - <0.1 (0.29) <0.1 (0.06)

Scirpus cyperinus Woolgrass - E - - - 0.1 (0.70) 0.1 (1.01) -

Sium suave Hemlock waterparsnip HM (+) E <0.1 (0.02) - - - - -

Smilax rotundifolia Roundleaf greenbrier - E - - - - <0.1 (0.06) -

Solanum dulcamara Climbing nightshade (V) E - - - <0.1 (0.06) - -

Solidago latissimifolia Elliott's goldenrod - E - - - - <0.1 (0.06) -

Solidago patula Roundleaf goldenrod - E - - - 0.1 (0.29) - -

Sonchus oleraceus Common sowthistle - E - - - <0.1 (0.06) - -

Spartina pectinata Prairie cordgrass HM (+) I - 0.1 (0.32) - - -
31

Table 3. Species, average Braun-Blanquet1 score and average percent cover (in parentheses, calculated from mid-point values) for vegetation 

sampled at Saugus Iron Works NHS from 2009-2014 (post-restoration) in the restored wetland. Also indicated are the planted native species and 

planting zone2

, for species planted in the restored wetland in 2008, and presence in August 2009 during site visit by New England Environmental, 

Inc. Location where species was observed (wetland interior or upland edge) is also indicated. Invasive or potentially invasive plants are indicated 

in bold type (continued).

Scientific Name

Common Name 

Average BraunBlanquet score 

(percent of total cover)

Zone2

(if planted) 

and presence 

in 2009

(V, +, or -)

Plots where 

observed

(I: interior,

E: edge)

Average Braun-Blanquet1 score

(percent of total cover)

2009 

(n=53)

2010 

(n=48)

2011 

(n=47)

2012 

(n=54)

2013 

(n=53)

2014 

(n=50)

Symphyotrichum

puniceum Purplestem aster - E - - - <0.1 (0.06) 0.1 (0.58) -

Symphyotrichum 

subulatum

Eastern annual saltmarsh 

aster - E, I - - 0.1 (0.33) 0.2 (1.11) 0.3 (1.28) 0.3 (1.36)

Trifolium repens White clover (V) - - - - - - -

Toxicodendron radicans Poison Ivy - E - - - <0.1 (0.06) - -

Typha angustifolia Narrowleaf cattail - E, I 1.5 (7.42) 0.1 (0.41) 0.9 (2.30) 0.3 (0.34) 0.5 (1.89) 0.5 (2.91)

Unknown forb seedling Unknown forb seedling - E <0.1 (0.02) <0.1 (0.01) - - - -

Unknown grass Unknown grass - E, I 0.2 (1.6) - - - 0.1 (0.77) <0.1 (0.07)

Unknown panicgrass Unknown panicgrass - E - - - - <0.1 (0.06) -

Unknown rush Unknown rush - E - <0.1 (0.01) - - <0.1 (0.29) -

Unknown sedge Unknown sedge - E <0.1 (0.06) 0.1 (0.45) - - - -

Verbena hastata Blue vervain (V) - - - - - - -

Viburnum dentatum Arrow-wood viburnum - E - - <0.1 (0.06) <0.1 (0.06) 0.2 (1.91) -

Vincetoxicum nigrum Black swallow-wort - E - - - <0.1 (0.06) -

Zannichella palustris Horned pondweed (V) E, I 1.3 (6.51) 1.2 (9.31) 1.3 (6.54) 1.3 (5.69) 0.4 (0.48) 0.7 (2.04)

Zizania aquatica Wild rice LM (-) - - - - - - -

Total vegetative species 21 13 23 38 36 16

Non vegetative and Dead covers

Algal mat only6 Algal mat only - E, I Not defined 

as a cover 3.3 (41.48) 3.9 (46.74) 4.0 (48.52) 2.9 (24.88) 4.5 (56.65)

Bare ground/algal mat6 Bare ground and algal 

mat - E, I 5.6 (79.27) 4.0 (58.42) 4.6 (67.15) 4.4 (62.69) 4.6 (64.83) 4.8 (69.40)

Bare ground only6 Bare ground only - E, I Not defined 

as a cover 3.5 (37.76) 3.3 (32.67) 2.9 (27.75) 4.5 (55.97) 3.3 (30.35)

Dead, Carex lacustris Dead hairy sedge - E - 0.1 (0.33) - - - -
32

Table 3. Species, average Braun-Blanquet1 score and average percent cover (in parentheses, calculated from mid-point values) for vegetation 

sampled at Saugus Iron Works NHS from 2009-2014 (post-restoration) in the restored wetland. Also indicated are the planted native species and 

planting zone2

, for species planted in the restored wetland in 2008, and presence in August 2009 during site visit by New England Environmental, 

Inc. Location where species was observed (wetland interior or upland edge) is also indicated. Invasive or potentially invasive plants are indicated 

in bold type (continued).

Scientific Name

Common Name 

Average BraunBlanquet score 

(percent of total cover)

Zone2

(if planted) 

and presence 

in 2009

(V, +, or -)

Plots where 

observed

(I: interior,

E: edge)

Average Braun-Blanquet1 score

(percent of total cover)

2009 

(n=53)

2010 

(n=48)

2011 

(n=47)

2012 

(n=54)

2013 

(n=53)

2014 

(n=50)

Dead, Eleocharis 

parvula Dwarf spikerush - I Not defined as a cover

Not defined 

as a cover

Not defined 

as a cover

Not defined 

as a cover

Not defined 

as a cover 1.9 (10.29)

Dead, Phragmites Dead, Phragmites - E - - - - <0.1 (0.29) -

Dead, woody plant Dead woody plant - E - <0.1 (0.01) - - - -

Filamentous algae Filamentous algae - I - 0.1 (0.85) - - <1 (0.01) -

Litter/wrack Litter/wrack - E, I 0.6 (2.08) 1.4 (4.64) 1.5 (3.76) 1.9 (8.53) 0.7 (2.59) 1.0 (1.96)

Rock Rock - E - 0.4 (1.22) 0.2 (2.20) 0.2 (0.69) 0.4 (2.18) 0.2 (0.93)

Water Water I - - - 1.0 (0.29) 0.1 (0.58) -

Filamentous algae Filamentous algae - I - 0.1 (0.85) - - <1 (0.01) -

Litter/wrack Litter/wrack - E, I 0.6 (2.08) 1.4 (4.64) 1.5 (3.76) 1.9 (8.53) 0.7 (2.59) 1.0 (1.96)

Rock Rock - E - 0.4 (1.22) 0.2 (2.20) 0.2 (0.69) 0.4 (2.18) 0.2 (0.93)

Water Water I - - - 1.0 (0.29) 0.1 (0.58) -

1 Braun-Blanquet cover class scale (0; 1: <1; 2: 1%- 5%; 3: 6-25%; 4: 26-50%; 5: 51-75%; 6: 76-100%). “-“ indicates species was not present.

2 Native vegetation planting zones: HM: high marsh, LM: low marsh; and presence (+), absence (-), or volunteer plant (a plant that was present 

but not planted) (V) during site visit by New England Environmental, Inc. on 28 July 2009.

3 Butomus umbellatus is listed as potentially invasive in CT.

4 Callitriche species originally identified as C. terrestris (H. Leeson, Rhode Island Natural History Survey, October 2009), but was confirmed to 

be C. stagnalis in 2012 (identified by P. Sharpe and R. Baranowski, September 2012).

5Wetland Planting Table lists Juncus balticus and not J. effusus. It is likely that J. effusus was the planted species (M. Albert, National Park 

Service, pers. comm.).

6 In 2009, bare ground and algal mat were recorded as one cover type. In 2010 to 2012, at the request of NPS staff, the cover of only algal mat 

and only bare ground in addition to the combined cover of bare ground and algal mat were recorded.
33

Figure 14. Number of plant species observed in the restored wetland interior and along the upland edge. 

The number of plots sampled in each area is indicated inside the bars.

Figure 15. Species dominating the restored marsh (average percent cover calculated from mid-point 

values). 
34

Figure 16. Photos of the restored wetland in 2009 to 2014. Note the dominance of bare mud, algal mat, and dwarf spike rush.
35

Table 4. Species, average Braun-Blanquet score and average percent cover (calculated form mid-point values, in parentheses) for vegetation 

sampled in the natural marsh at Saugus Iron Works NHS from 2009-2014. Invasive or potentially invasive plants are indicated in bold type.

Scientific Name Common Name

Average Braun-Blanquet1 score (percent of total cover)

2009

Natural 

marsh

(n=17)

2010

Natural

marsh

(n=18)

2011

Natural

marsh

(n=18)

2012

Natural

marsh

(n=19)

2013

Natural 

marsh

(n=18)

2014

Natural

marsh

(n=19)

Acalypha virginica Three-seeded mercury - - - 0.1 (0.16) - 0.3 (0.97)

Acer negundo Boxelder 0.1 (0.18) - - - - -

Acorus americanus Sweet flag 0.1 (0.18) 0.7 (4.69) 1.1 (7.14) 0.5 (2.97) 0.3 (1.72) -

Alisma subcordatum American water plantain - - 0.4 (2.97) 0.2 (0.08) - 0.4 (1.13)

Alliaria petiolata Garlic mustard - - 0.1 (0.03) - - -

Alnus incana Gray alder - - - 0.3 (4.63) - -

Alnus serrulata Hazel alder - 0.4 (3.67) - - 0.3 (4.89) -

Apios americana Groundnut 0.4 (2.41) - 0.5 (1.36) 0.2 (0.82) 0.1 (0.17) 0.2 (2.00)

Artemisia vulgaris Mugwort - - - - 0.1 (0.17) -

Aster lanceolatus var. lanceolatus White panicle aster 0.1 (0.18) - - - - -

Aster novi-belgii New York aster 0.2 (0.35) 0.1 (0.17) - - - -

Aster species Aster species 0.2 (0.35) 0.2 (2.11) - - - -

Baccharis halimifolia Eastern Baccharis - - - - 0.1 (0.17) -

Bidens frondosa Devil's beggartick 0.5 (2.00) - - - <0.1 (0.03) 0.2 (0.82)

Brassicaceae species Mustard species - - - - 0.1 (0.17) -

Callitriche species2 Water starwort species - - 0.4 (0.53) - - 0.3 (0.24)

Calystegia sepium Hedge bindweed 0.1 (0.18) - 0.1 (0.17) - - -

Carex lacustris Hairy sedge - 0.1 (0.17) 0.3 (1.72) - 0.5 (3.14) 0.7 (6.82)

Carex species Sedge species - - - - - 0.1 (0.16)

Carex stipata Awlfruit sedge - - - - - 0.1 (0.16)

Cicuta maculata Spotted water hemlock - - 0.1 (0.17) - -

Cinna arundinacea Sweet woodreed - - - - - 0.1 (0.16)

Cornus amomum Silky dogwood - - - - 0.1 (0.17) 0.4 (2.82)

Cyperus strigosus Strawcolored flatsedge - - - - - <0.1 (0.03)
36

Table 4. Species, average Braun-Blanquet score and average percent cover (calculated form mid-point values, in parentheses) for vegetation 

sampled in the natural marsh at Saugus Iron Works NHS from 2009-2014. Invasive or potentially invasive plants are indicated in bold type 

(continued).

Scientific Name Common Name

Average Braun-Blanquet1 score (percent of total cover)

2009

Natural 

marsh

(n=17)

2010

Natural

marsh

(n=18)

2011

Natural

marsh

(n=18)

2012

Natural

marsh

(n=19)

2013

Natural 

marsh

(n=18)

2014

Natural

marsh

(n=19)

Dysphania ambrosioides Mexican tea - 0.3 (3.53) - 0.1 (0.03) 0.1 (0.17) -

Echinochloa muricata Rough barnyardgrass 0.1 (0.03) - -- - - -

Eleocharis parvula Dwarf spikerush - - 0.1 (0.17) 0.1 (0.16) 0.6 (2.75) 0.1 (0.16)

Epilobium coloratum Purpleleaf willowherb - - - - - 0.1 (0.16)

Equisetum arvense Field horsetail - - - - - 0.2 (0.82)

Eutrochium dubium Coastal plain joepyeweed - - - 0.2 (2.00) - -

Eutrochium maculatum Spotted joepyeweed 0.2 (0.21) - - - - 0.2 (0.82)

Geum macrophyllum Largeleaf avens 0.1 (0.18) - - - - -

Impatiens capensis Spottted jewelweed - - - - - 0.3 (1.00)

Iris species Iris species - - 0.1 (0.17) - - -

Juncus effusus Common rush - - 0.1 (0.03) - - -

Leersia oryzoides Rice cut grass - - 0.1 (0.17) 0.1 (0.16) 0.2 (2.11) 0.5 (5.32)

Lycopus americanus American water horehound - 0.4 (2.97) - <0.1 (0.03) <0.1 (0.03) -

Lycopus europaeus Gypsywort 0.5 (3.32) - - - - -

Lythrum salicaria Purple loosestrife 1.1 (7.26) - 0.2 (0.86) 0.5 (3.00) 0.3 (1.03) 0.6 (5.47)

Mikania scandens Climbing hempvine 0.6 (2.76) - - 0.4 (2.32) 0.6 (5.22) 0.3 (1.63)

Moss species Moss species - - - - - 0.3 (1.63)

Nasturtium officinale3 Watercress 0.2 (0.35) - - - - -

Oenothera biennis Common evening primrose 0.4 (1.82) - - - - -

Oxalis stricta Common yellow oxalis 0.4 (1.26) - - - - 0.1 (0.16)

Panicum dichotomiflorum Fall panicgrass - - - 0.1 (0.16) - -

Panicum flexile Wiry panicgrass 0.1 (0.18) - - - - -

Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia creeper - 0.2 (0.86) - 0.2 (0.82) - -
37

Table 4. Species, average Braun-Blanquet score and average percent cover (calculated form mid-point values, in parentheses) for vegetation 

sampled in the natural marsh at Saugus Iron Works NHS from 2009-2014. Invasive or potentially invasive plants are indicated in bold type 

(continued).

Scientific Name Common Name

Average Braun-Blanquet1 score (percent of total cover)

2009

Natural 

marsh

(n=17)

2010

Natural

marsh

(n=18)

2011

Natural

marsh

(n=18)

2012

Natural

marsh

(n=19)

2013

Natural 

marsh

(n=18)

2014

Natural

marsh

(n=19)

Peltandra virginica Green arrow arum 1.2 (4.94) 1.2 (5.92) 1.4 (8.14) 1.3 (8.24) 1.7 (12.06) 1.3 (9.29)

Persicaria amphibia Water smartweed - - - 0.1 (0.16) - -

Persicaria hydropiper Marshpepper knotweed 0.3 (1.09) - - - 0.2 (0.86) -

Persicaria hydropiperoides Swamp smartweed - - 0.4 (1.19) 0.4 (1.13) 0.2 (0.86) -

Persicaria maculosa Spotted ladysthumb 0.4 (2.44) - 0.2 (0.33) 0.2 (2.00) - -

Persicaria pensylvanicum Pennsylvania smartweed 0.2 (0.94) - - - - -

Persicaria punctata Dotted smartweed - - - - - 0.4 (1.79)

Persicaria species Smartweed species - 0.1(0.03) - - -

Phalaris arundinacea Reed canary grass 0.1 (0.18) 0.3 (3.03) 0.9 (9.42) 0.3 (1.63) 1.3 (14.86) -

Phragmites australis Common reed - 0.2 (0.33) 0.2 (0.86) - <0.1 (0.03) -

Phytolacca americana Pokeweed 0.2 (0.35) - - - - -

Plantago lanceolata Narrowleaf plantain - - - - 0.1 (0.17) -

Plantago major Common plantain - - - 0.1 (0.16) - -

Pluchea odorata Saltmarsh fleabane - - - - 0.1 (0.17) -

Poaceae species Unknown grass (Poaceae) 0.4 (0.47) 0.1 (0.03) - 0.1 (0.16) - 0.6 (3.75)

Ranunculus sceleratus Cursed buttercup - - - - <0.1 (0.03) 0.1 (0.16)

Rhamnus frangula Glossy buckthorn - - - - 0.2 (0.86) -

Rorippa palustris var. hispida Hispid yellowcress 0.1 (0.18) - - - - -

Rosa multiflora Multiflora rose 0.3 (1.09) 0.2 (2.11) 0.1 (0.17) - 0.3 (1.03) -

Rosa palustris Swamp rose - - - - 0.1 (0.17) -

Rumex crispus Curly dock - - - - 0.2 (0.86) 0.1 (0.16)

Rumex species Water hemp species 0.1 (0.18) - - - - -

Samolus valerandi Water-pimpernel - - - - 0.2 (0.86) 0.4 (1.79)
38

Table 4. Species, average Braun-Blanquet score and average percent cover (calculated form mid-point values, in parentheses) for vegetation 

sampled in the natural marsh at Saugus Iron Works NHS from 2009-2014. Invasive or potentially invasive plants are indicated in bold type 

(continued).

Scientific Name Common Name

Average Braun-Blanquet1 score (percent of total cover)

2009

Natural 

marsh

(n=17)

2010

Natural

marsh

(n=18)

2011

Natural

marsh

(n=18)

2012

Natural

marsh

(n=19)

2013

Natural 

marsh

(n=18)

2014

Natural

marsh

(n=19)

Schoenoplectus/Scirpus species Schoenoplectus/Scirpus species 0.1 (0.18) - - - - -

Sciyos angulatus Oneseed bur cucumber 0.2 (0.91) 0.2 (0.86) - - - -

Sium suave Water parsnip - - 0.2 (0.33) 0.2 (0.32) 0.1 (0.17) 0.3 (0.97)

Smilax rotundifolia Roundleaf greenbrier - 0.3 (3.50) 0.1 (0.17) - 0.1 (0.17) -

Solidago species Goldenrod species - - - - - <0.1 (0.03)

Solidago speciosa Showy goldenrod - - 0.4 (3.67) - - -

Symphyotrichum lanceolatum White panicle aster - - - - 0.4 (2.97) -

Symphyotrichum novi-belgii New York aster - - - - 0.2 (0.86) 0.8 (9.97)

Symphyotrichum pilosum Hairy white oldfield aster - - - 0.2 (0.82) - -

Symphyotrichum prenanthoides Crookedstem aster - - - 0.1 (0.16) 0.1 (0.17) -

Symphyotrichum puniceum Purplestem aster - - - - - 0.6 (5.47)

Symphyotrichum subulatum Eastern annual saltmarsh aster - - 0.3 (1.72) 0.1 (0.16) - 0.1 (0.16)

Toxicodendron radicans Poison Ivy - - - - - 0.1 (0.16)

Typha angustifolia Narrowleaf cattail 3.6 (40.32) 3.7 (36.86) 3.6 (44.39) 3.8 (47.37) 2.9 (30.92) 3.2 (41.76)

Unknown panic grass Unknown panic grass - 0.2 (0.86) - - - -

Verbena hastata Swamp verbena - - - 0.1 (0.16) - 0.2 (0.82)

Veronica serpyllifolia Thymeleaf speedwell 0.1 (0.03) - - - - -

Viburnum dentatum Arrow-wood viburnum - 3.3 (4.89) - - 0.2 (0.89) -

Zannichella palustris Horned pondweed 0.1 (0.03) 0.1 (0.17) 0.3 (2.28) 0.2 (2.00) 0.6 (5.08) 0.4 (2.82)

Total vegetative species 35 21 26 29 36 36

Non-vegetative and dead covers

Bare ground/algal mat Bare ground/algal mat 1.6 (16.24) 2.8 (21.39) 2.7 (21.64) - 1.0 (14.67) 3.11 (30.13)

Dead, Acorus species Dead, sweetflag species - - - - 0.1 (0.17) -
39

Table 4. Species, average Braun-Blanquet score and average percent cover (calculated form mid-point values, in parentheses) for vegetation 

sampled in the natural marsh at Saugus Iron Works NHS from 2009-2014. Invasive or potentially invasive plants are indicated in bold type 

(continued).

Scientific Name Common Name

Average Braun-Blanquet1 score (percent of total cover)

2009

Natural 

marsh

(n=17)

2010

Natural

marsh

(n=18)

2011

Natural

marsh

(n=18)

2012

Natural

marsh

(n=19)

2013

Natural 

marsh

(n=18)

2014

Natural

marsh

(n=19)

Dead, Carex lacustris Dead, hairy sedge - - - - 0.2 (0.86) -

Dead, Persicaria species Dead, smartweed species - 0.4 (1.86) - - - -

Dead, Typha angustifolia Dead, narrowleaf cattail - 0.1 (0.14) - - 0.7 (2.78) -

Dead, woody plant Dead, woody plant 0.3 (1.82) - - - - -

Litter/wrack Litter/wrack 2.0 (15.85) 2.9 (18.94) 2.1 (6.17) 4.5 (50.63) 2.56 (20.11) 3.1 (27.53)

Rock Rock - - 0.2 (2.11) - - -

Water Water - 0.3 (3.50) 0.2 (2.11) - 0.7 (9.78) -

1 Braun-Blanquet cover class scale (0; 1: <1; 2: 1%- 5%; 3: 6-25%; 4: 26-50%; 5: 51-75%; 6: 76-100%). “-“ indicates species was not present.

2 Callitriche species was originally identified as C. terrestris (H. Leeson, Rhode Island Natural History Survey, October 2009), but was 

confirmed to be C. stagnalis in 2012 (identified by P. Sharpe and R. Baranowski, September 2012).

3 Nasturtium officinale is listed as potentially invasive in CT.
40

Table 5. Plants observed on the streamside riparian berm in 2009 and 2011. Invasive or potentially 

invasive plants are indicated in bold type (invasive plant list from MIPAG 2005).

Scientific Name Common Name 20091 2011

Acalypha virginica Three-seeded mercury X

Achillea millefolium Common yarrow X

Agalinis tenuifolia Slenderleaf false foxglove X

Alisma lantago-aquatica Water plantain X

Alnus incana spp. rugosa Speckled alder P (+) X

Ambrosia artemisiifolia Common ragweed X X

Artemisia vulgaris Mugwort X

Atriplex patula Spear saltbush X

Bidens cernua Nodding beggar tick X

Bidens frondosa Devil’s beggartick X X

Brassica nigra Black mustard X

Calystegiasepium Hedge bindweed X X

Carex lacustris Lake sedge P (-)

Carex stricta Tussock sedge P (-) X

Carex species Carex species P/X (+)

Commelina communis Asiatic dayflower X X

Conyza canadensis Horseweed X

Cornus amomum Silky dogwood P (+) X

Cornus sericea Redosier dogwood P (+)

Cyperus grayoides Umbrella sedge X

Daucus carota Queen Anne's lace X

Dysphania ambrosioides Mexican tea X

Echinochloa crus-galli Barnyard grass X

Echinochloa walteri Coast cockspur X

Echinocystis lobata Wild cucumber X

Eleocharis obtusa Soft-stem spikerush X

Epilobium coloratum Purpleleaf willowherb X

Erigeron strigosus Daisy fleabane X

Eupatorium perfoliatum Common boneset X X

Eutrochium maculatum Spotted joepyeweed X

Fraxinus species Ash species X

Glyceria grandis Tall mannagrass X

Helianthus species Sunflower species X

Hieracium species Hawkweed species X

Humulus japonicus Japanese hops X X
41

Table 5. Species list for plants observed on the berm (streamside riparian buffer zone) in 2009 and 2011. 

Invasive or potentially invasive plants are indicated in bold type (continued).

Scientific Name Common Name 20091 2011

Impatiens capensis Spottted jewelweed X X

Iris species Iris species X

Juncus effusus Common rush X X

Lepidium virginicum Wild peppergrass X

Lotus corniculatus Birdsfoot trefoil X

Lycopus americanus American water horehound X X

Lythrum salicaria Purple loosestrife X

Medicago lupulina Black medic X

Mikania scandens Climbing hempweed X

Mimulus ringens Monkey flower X

Nasturtium officinale2 Watercress X

Polygonum cuspidatum Japanese knotweed X

Oenothera biennis Common evening primrose X X

Oxalis stricta Yellow woodsorrel X

Panicum dichotomiflorum Fall panicgrass X

Panicum virgatum Switchgrass X

Persicaria hydropiper Marshpepper knotweed X

Persicaria hydropiperoides Swamp smartweed X

Persicaria maculosa Spotted ladysthumb X

Pilea pumila Canada clearweed X

Plantago lanceolata Narrowleaf plantain X X

Plantago major Common plantain X

Poa pratensis Kentucky bluegrass X

Polygonum persicaria Spotted ladysthumb X

Pontederia cordata Pickerelweed X

Populus deltoides Eastern cottonwood X

Potentilla norvegica Rough cinquefoil X

Potentilla simplex Old field cinquefoil X

Rorippa species Yellowcress species X

Rosa multiflora Multiflora rose X X

Rosa palustris Swamp rose P (+) X

Rumex crispus Curly dock X

Salix bebbiana Bebb willow X

Sambucus nigra Common elderberry X

Setaria viridis Green foxtail X
42

Table 5. Species list for plants observed on the berm (streamside riparian buffer zone) in 2009 and 2011. 

Invasive or potentially invasive plants are indicated in bold type (continued).

Scientific Name Common Name 20091 2011

Sium suave Water parsnip X X

Solanum nigrum Black nightshade X

Solidago odora Fragrant goldenrod X

Sonchus oleraceus Annual sowthistle X

Symphyotrichum novi-belgii New York aster X

Symphyotrichum subulatum Eastern annual saltmarsh aster X

Taraxacum officinale Common dandelion X

Thlaspi arvense Field pennycress X

Trifolium hybridum Alsike clover X

Trifolium pratense Red clover X

Trifolium repens White clover X

Ulmus rubra Slippery elm X

Verbascum thapsus Common mullein X

Verbena hastata Blue vervain X

Viola species Violet species X

1 P(+): Planted in 2008 and present in 2009; P(-): Planted in 2008, but absent in 2009; X: Species 

was present.

Aquatic vegetation

Several types of aquatic vegetation have been observed in both the river and turning basin at SAIR 

since 2004. Horned pondweed has been observed in all years (2004, 2008-2014) in both the river and 

the turning basin (after its conversion to open water) and has increased in abundance especially in the 

turning basin, since the restoration (Table 6, Figure 17). Horned pondweed is tolerant of fresh to 

moderately brackish conditions, is eaten by waterfowl, and provides good habitat for small aquatic 

animals (Washington State Department of Ecology 2012). Curly pondweed (Potamogeton crispus), 

an invasive plant (Massachusetts Invasive Plant Advisory Group [MIPAG] 2005), was observed in 

both 2004 and 2009, and again in 2013 and 2014 (Table 6).

The abundance of horned pondweed was highest in the river in 2009, and was also observed at 96% 

of the samples that year (Figure 17, Table 6). Generally, in all years, only horned pondweed was 

observed in the river; whereas, in the turning basin other aquatic species were observed (Table 6).

Invasive vegetation

Twelve invasive and/or introduced plants have been encountered at SAIR during pre- and postrestoration monitoring (USDA 2012, MIPAG 2005, New England Environmental, Inc. 2009) (Table 

7). Prior to the restoration six invasive species (all either wetland or terrestrial plants) were observed 

in the former turning basin and wetland along the river. In 2008, only one invasive species was 

observed (curly pondweed), but only aquatic vegetation was monitored in 2008 (the newly restored 

wetland was not sampled). From 2009 to 2014, eleven invasive plant species were observed (Table 
43

7). The majority of these (nine species) were found either on the riparian berm or in the natural 

marsh. On the restoring marsh, only four invasive species have been documented from 2009-2014 

(common reed [Phragmites australis], curly pondweed [Potamogeton crispus] flowering rush 

[Butomus umbellatus], and purple loosestrife [Lythrum salicaria]), with most of these occurring 

along the upland fringe of the restoring marsh.

Curly pondweed was found in the restored turning basin and the restored wetland in 2008-2009, and 

again in 2013-2014. This plant is a freshwater pondweed species, and increased salt water intrusion 

into the river (CH2MHill 2011) may be partially responsible for its absence in later sampling years in 

2011-2012. Purple loosestrife, which was fairly abundant in the natural marsh (representing 7% of 

the total cover in 2009), was also present in the restored wetland in 2009, 2011, and 2013. The park 

has initiated a focused effort in some years (e.g., 2010, 2014) to manually eradicate purple loosestrife 

from these areas and this effort appears to have been successful in 2010; however, purple loosestrife 

was again observed in both the natural and restored wetland in later years, indicating that continued 

diligence to remove this species might be required to prevent it from becoming overly abundant. 

These invasive plants provide seed sources, especially when they are well-established in the natural 

wetland areas, and potentially threaten the native wetland species currently found in the restored 

wetland. Invasive plants have consistently been found on the streamside riparian berm and in the 

small natural marsh, and control/eradication efforts could be focused on these areas to limit the 

spread of these plants within the park.
44

Table 6. Aquatic vegetation species list, average Braun-Blanquet score, and percent of sampling stations where observed at Saugus Iron Works 

NHS in 2004 (pre-restoration) and 2008 to 2014 (post-restoration). Invasive species are indicated in bold type.

Location & Common Name Scientific Name Average Braun-Blanquet1 score (percent of plots observed)

Turning Basin 20042 2008

(n=11)

2009

(n=21)

2010

(n=15)

2011

(n=22)

2012

(n=22)

2013

(n=21)

2014

(n=18)

Eleocharis parvula Dwarf spikerush 0.1 (11%)

Elodea species Elodea species n/a 1.8 (55%) 0.3 (14%) - - - 0.05 (5%) 0.06 6%)

Potamogeton crispus Curly pondweed n/a 1.0 (27%) 1.0 (38%) - - - 0.1 (9%) 0.1 (11%)

Potamogeton epihydrus Ribbonleaf pondweed n/a - 0.4 (19%) - - -

Potamogeton gramineus Variableleaf pondweed n/a - Present - - -

Potamogeton perfoliatus Claspingleaf pondweed n/a - - - - 0.09 (5%) 0.2 (14%)

Unknown pondweed3 Unknown pondweed n/a 0.2 (9%) - - - -

Unknown filamentous green algae Unknown filamentous green algae n/a - - - - 0.8 (27%)

Vallisneria americana Wild celery n/a - - - 0.05 (5%) -

Zannichella palustris Horned pondweed n/a 1.2 (45%) 1.5 (52%) 2.3 (87%) 4.2 (86%) 2.8 (55%) 3.5 (100%) 3.1 (94%)

River 2004

(n=12)

2008

(n=15)

2009

(n=27)

2010

(n=33)

2011

(n=33)

2012

(n=34)

2013

(n=30)

2014

(n=29)

Callitriche species4 Water starwort species 0.3 (17%) - - - 0.03 (3%) -

Elodea species Elodea species - - - - - -

Potamogeton crispus Curly pondweed 0.6 (33%) - - - - -

Potamogeton epihydrus Ribbonleaf pondweed - - - - - -

Potamogeton gramineus Variableleaf pondweed - - - - - -

Unknown filamentous green algae Unknown filamentous green algae - - - 0.2 (9%) 0.03 (3%) 0.03 (3%) 0.1 (3%)

Unknown green algae Unknown green algae 0.7 (17%) - - - 0.03 (3%)-

Unknown moss Unknown moss

Vallisneria americana Wild celery - - - - 0.05 (6%) -

Unknown pondweed3 Unknown pondweed - - - - - -

Zannichella palustris Horned pondweed 1.5 (42%) 0.9 (20%) 4.0 (96%) 1.7 (55%) 3.4 (82%) 3.2 (94%) 3.1 (70%) 4.0 (86%)

1 Braun Blanquet cover class scale (0; 1: <1; 2: 1%- 5%; 3: 6-25%; 4: 26-50%; 5: 51-75%; 6: 76-100%). “-“ indicates species was not present.

2 Turning basin was a vegetated wetland in 2004 and therefore no aquatic vegetation samples were taken.

3 Possibly P. gramineus, P. gramineus was present but was not observed in plots in 2009.

4 Callitriche species was originally identified as C. terrestris (H. Leeson, Rhode Island Natural History Survey, October 2009), but was 

confirmed to be C. stagnalis in 2012 (identified by P. Sharpe and R. Baranowski, September 2012).
45

Figure 17. Abundance of horned pondweed (Zannichella palustris) at Saugus Iron Works NHS. Note: 

Aquatic vegetation was not sampled in the tuning basin in 2004 because it was a vegetated marsh area.
46

Table 7. List of Massachusetts state-listed invasive plants (after MIPAG 2005) observed during vegetation sampling at SAIR (2004-2014). Also 

listed are plants not listed in MA, but listed in neighboring states.

Scientific Name Common Name Status1 Years observed and Location2

Alliaria petiolata Garlic mustard Invasive (MA) 2011 (NM)

Butomus umbellatus Flowering rush Potentially invasive (CT) 2009 (RW), 2011 (RW)

Polygonum cuspidatum Japanese knotweed Invasive (MA) 2011 (B)

Humulus japonicus Japanese hop Invasive (MA) 2009 (B), 2011 (B)

Lythrum salicaria Purple loosestrife Invasive (MA) 2004 (FTB, SM), 2009 (NM, RW), 2011 (B, NM, RW), 2012 (RW),

2013 (NM), 2014 (NM)

Nasturtium officinale Watercress Potentially invasive (CT) 2009 (B, NM), 2011 (B)

Phalaris arundinacea Reed canary grass Invasive (MA) 2004 (SM, FTB), 2009 (NM), 2010 (NM), 2011 (NM), 2012 (NM), 

2013 (NM)

Phragmites australis Common reed Invasive (MA) 2004 (SM, FTB), 2009 (RW), 2010 (NM), 2011 (NM), 2012 (RW), 

2013 (NM, RW)

Potamogeton crispus Curly pondweed Invasive (MA) 2004 (R), 2008 (TB), 2009 (TB, RW)

Rhamnus frangula Glossy buckthorn Invasive (MA) 2013 (NM)

Robinia pseudoacacia Black locust Invasive (MA) 2004 (FTB)

Rosa multiflora Multiflora rose Invasive (MA) 2004 (FTB), 2009 (B, NM), 2010 (NM), 2011 (B, NM), 2013 (NM)

1 Status information is from USDA Plants Database (2012).

2 Locations where invasive species were observed: B: riparian berm; FTB: former turning basin (2004 pre-restoration); NM: natural marsh; R: 

river; RW: restored wetland (post-restoration); SM: southern marsh (2004 pre-restoration); TB: turning basin (post-restoration).
47

Nekton community

Since nekton sampling has been conducted at SAIR, at least 30 species (23 fishes and four decapods, 

one amphibian [tadpole], and two odonates [dragonfly and damselfly larvae]) (Table 8 to Table 12) 

have been recorded. In 2004, it is possible that the brook sticklebacks may have been mis-identified 

and were likely nine-spine sticklebacks, unfortunately voucher specimens were not available for 

verification. 

A juvenile jack (Caranx species), possibly a blue runner (C. crysos) or crevalle jack (C. hippos) was 

caught in a minnow trap off the turning basin dock in September 2010. The identification was based 

on photographic record (refer to appendix Appendix Figure 25) as the specimen was released and 

positive identification was not possible. Both jack species are found in the Western Atlantic from 

Nova Scotia to the Gulf of Mexico, although the blue runner is more likely to extend north of Cape 

Cod than the crevalle jack (Collette and Klein-MacPhee 2002). Discussion with several experts 

indicated that the observation of a juvenile jack far upstream in the Saugus River was an unusual and 

interesting occurrence.

In the river, common nekton included four-spine stickleback (Apeltes quadracus), nine-spine 

stickleback (Pungitius pungitius), white sucker (Catostomus commersoni), and mummichog 

(Fundulus heteroclitus, since 2009), (Figure 18). Inland silverside (Menidia beryllina), a brackishestuarine fish have been becoming increasingly common in seine samples since 2010 (Table 8). In 

the restored turning basin, common nekton included four-spine stickleback, American eel (Anguilla 

rostrata), and mummichog (since 2009) (Figure 18). The high incidence of American eels in throw 

trap samples in the turning basin is likely due to the fine sediment in the basin and the ability of the 

gear to sample the benthic sediment layer where these individuals are located. 

In the river the nekton community appears to be transitioning from a freshwater-brackish water 

community to a more estuarine nekton community in more recent years (2009 and later) (refer to 

James-Pirri 2013) (Figure 18). This same trend continued in 2013 and 2014, with additional estuarine 

species such as inland silversides, Crangon shrimp and Palaemonetes shrimp becoming increasingly 

abundant. This observation was also consistent with data collected by CH2MHill’s continuous YSI 

recorder that showed salinity in the turning basin and river exceeded 20 ppt on several occasions in 

2010, whereas 20 ppt was never exceeded in 2008 (CH2MHill 2011, James-Pirri 2013).

The catch has consistently been dominated by young-of-the-year or juveniles for most of the nekton 

species in all years (Figure 19). 

Water temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen collected in conjunction with the nekton sampling 

events are summarized in Table 13. Water temperature exceeded Massachusetts Water Quality 

Criteria for Class SB waters on two occasions, while dissolved oxygen was lower than the minimum 

criteria on seven occasions (Table 13).

Invasive nekton

One exotic crustacean (green crab, Carcinus maenas) was found in 2004. Two nonindigenous (nonnative) fish, largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) and the bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) were 
48

collected during most sampling years (Table 14). Both the largemouth bass and the bluegill are 

native transplants; North American species that were most likely transplanted into Massachusetts 

waters by intentional stocking programs (Fuller 2004, USGS 2004). The green crab is a wellestablished exotic species (first recorded observation on the East Coast in 1817) that is abundant in 

coastal waters from Maine to Maryland (Benson 2004). 

Rainbow smelt and American eel monitoring (Section retained from James-Pirri 2013)

In 2005 (prior to restoration), rainbow smelt were present in 56% of the Saugus River fyke net 

samples collected by MA DMF (32 samples or hauls), but at a low density (4.4 individuals haul-1

) 

compared to the other smelt monitoring stations in Massachusetts (Chase et al. 2007). The presence 

of alewife and white perch were also documented in the Saugus River during MA DMF smelt 

surveys. The catches for both species were low in 2005, but were still highest among fyke net 

stations in Massachusetts. Fish species richness from the fyke net surveys in 2005 ranked third

among MA stations (11 species) with a relative high presence of freshwater yellow perch and white 

sucker present at SAIR (Chase et al. 2007). At the SAIR fyke net station, smelt numbers were highest 

in 2006 and 2007 (pre-restoration) and then declined in 2008 to 2011 (after the restoration of the 

turning basin) (Brad Chase, Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, unpublished data) (Figure 

20). Changes in the river bed topography after the restoration may be responsible for the low smelt 

catches, as the fyke net may not be fishing as efficiently (Marc Albert, National Park Service, 

personal communication). 

Smelt egg surveys in 2011 and 2012 observed the presence of viable smelt eggs at several locations 

in the Saugus River SAIR, with an estimated 2104 m2 of spawning habitat of (LeBlanc 2012). The 

areal extent of suitable smelt habitat in the Saugus River in 2012 was larger than identified by 

surveys in 1988 and 1990 (Chase 2006). The most active spawning areas for smelt in the Saugus 

River were adjacent to the Saugus Iron Works historic waterfront. The berm, constructed during the 

restoration of the Saugus River wetlands and turning basin, was successful in protecting valuable 

riffle spawning habitat (LeBlanc 2012).

In 2006, the catch per unit effort (CPUE) of 0.4 YOY American eel per set hour was slightly lower 

than the 0.6 CPUE observed in 2005 (Chase 2007). Historically, the Saugus River was noted for 

large catches of American eel, but recent catches have been small (Chase 2007). Juvenile American 

eel (< 100 mm total length) are frequently observed in the throw trap samples (University of Rhode 

Island monitoring program), particularly in the restored turning basin (Figure 19, Table 11).

More recent data on species richness data at other MA smelt sampling stations and American eel 

abundance are currently being compiled by MA DMF (Matthew Ayers and Brad Chase, 

Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, personal communication).
49

Table 8. Nekton sampled during pre-restoration monitoring (2004) and post-restoration monitoring (2008 to 2014) at Saugus Iron Works NHS. Life 

cycle/habitat preference is given after scientific name1

.

Scientific Name Common Name 

2004

River only

2008

River 

& Basin

2009

River 

& Basin

2010

River 

& Basin

2011 

River 

& Basin

2012 

River 

& Basin

2013 

River 

& Basin

2014 

River 

& Basin

Seine

Throw trap

Seine

Throw trap

Seine

Throw trap

Seine

Throw trap

Seine

Throw trap

Seine

Throw trap

Seine

Throw trap

Seine

Throw trap

Alosa pseudoharengus (A, E, F) Alewife X X

Alosa aestivalis (A, E, F) Blueback herring X X

Ameiurus natalis (F) Yellow bullhead X

Ameiurus nebulosus (F) Brown bullhead X

Anchoa mitchilli (E) Bay anchovy X

Anguilla rostrata (C, E, F) American eel X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Apeltes quadracus (E, F) Four-spine stickleback X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Carcinus maenas (E) Green crab X

Catostomus commersoni (F) White sucker X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Culaea inconstans 2 (F) Brook stickleback X X

Crangon septemspinosa (E) Sevenspine bay shrimp X X X X

Esox americanus americanus (F) Redfin pickerel X X X X X

Esox americanus vermiculatus (F) Grass pickerel X

Fundulus heteroclitus (E, F) Mummichog X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Gasterosteus aculeatus (E, F) Three-spine stickleback X

Lepomis gibbosus (F) Pumpkinseed X X X X

Lepomis macrochirus (F) Bluegill X X X X X X X

Micropterus salmoides (F) Largemouth bass X X X X X X X X X X

Menidia beryllina (E, F) Inland silverside X X X X X X X

Morone americana (E, F) White perch X X X
50

Table 8. Nekton sampled during pre-restoration monitoring (2004) and post-restoration monitoring (2008 to 2014) at Saugus Iron Works NHS. Life 

cycle/habitat preference is given after scientific name1 (continued).

Scientific Name Common Name 

2004

River only

2008

River 

& Basin

2009

River 

& Basin

2010

River 

& Basin

2011 

River 

& Basin

2012 

River 

& Basin

2013 

River 

& Basin

2014 

River 

& Basin

Seine

Throw trap

Seine

Throw trap

Seine

Throw trap

Seine

Throw trap

Seine

Throw trap

Seine

Throw trap

Seine

Throw trap

Seine

Throw trap

Morone saxatilis (A, E, F) Striped bass X

Mugil curema (C, E, F) White mullet X

Notemigonus crysoleucas (F) Golden shiner X X

Odonata spp. (F) Dragonfly/Damselfly 

larvae X X X X X X X X X X

Orconectes spp. (F)3 Crayfish species X X X X

Palaemonetes pugio/vulgaris (E) Grass shrimp X X X X X

Pimephales promelas 4 (F) Fathead minnow X

Pungitius pungitius (E, F) Nine-spine stickleback X X X X X X X X X X X

Lithobates spp. (F)5 Tadpole species X

Rhithropanopeus harrisii (E, F) Harris mud crab X X X X X X X X

Total species caught 11 6 5 5 11 5 10 10 14 8 11 5 19 13 11 11

1 A: anadromous; C: catadromous, E: estuarine; F: freshwater.

2 Possibly nine-spine stickleback (voucher specimen not available for verification). Brook sticklebacks have not been verified east of the 

Connecticut River.

3 Specimens were juveniles, likely either Orconectes virilis or O. immunis.

4 Identification of fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) was verified by Karsten Hartel of the Harvard Museum of Comparative Zoology 

(MCZ). The specimen is vouchered at MCZ (voucher # MCZ 168881).

5 Likely either bull frog (L. catesbeianus) or green frog (L. clamitans), as tadpoles of these species are present in the fall and can overwinter as 

tadpoles (R. Cook, Wildlife Ecologist, National Park Service, e-mail 7 Nov 2011).
51

Figure 18. Percent of catch of fish (only common fish species are shown) sampled with a throw trap from 

the turning basin (top graph) and river (bottom graph) at Saugus Iron Works NHS.
52

Table 9. Nekton composition collected with a throw trap in the river at Saugus Iron Works NHS during pre-restoration monitoring (2004) and postrestoration monitoring (2008 to 2012). Sample size is given after year.

Scientific Name Common Name

Average abundance ± SD per throw trap (m-2) and total number of individuals collected

(in parentheses) in the river

2004

n=32

2008

n=15

2009

n=27

2010

n=33

2011

n=33

2012

n=38

2013

n=30

2014

n=29

Anguilla rostrata American eel 0.9±2.0

(30)

0.2±0.4

(3)

2.4±3.2

(66)

1.0±1.5

(34)

1.4±2.1

(45)

1.4±2.0

(55)

1.4±2.1

(42)

1.6±2.1

(46)

Apeltes quadracus Four-spine stickleback 1.6±3.6

(50)

0.6±1.5

(9)

4.2±6.1 

(114)

1.2±2.9

(39)

1.2±3.1

(39)

2.9±5.9

(112)

1.3±2.7

(40)

3.4±6.6

(98)

Carcinus maenas Green crab 0.03±0.2

(1) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Catostomus commersoni White sucker 7.4±16.1

(236)

0.1±0.3

(1)

5.0±8.4

(134)

0.1±0.5

(3)

1.2±2.9

(40) 0 0.07±0.3(2)

0.9±2.5

(27)

Crangon septemspinosa Sevenspine bay shrimp 0 0 0 0 0 0 4.0±13.4

(120)

5.2±17.1

(152)3

Culaea inconstans 1 Brook stickleback 0.03±0.2

(1) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Fundulus heteroclitus Mummichog 0 0 1.3±2.2

(35)

7.1±20.5

(234)

5.3±19.1

(175)

10.5±32.6

(400)

14.7±46.3

(442)

11.5±30.0

(332)

Gasterosteus aculeatus Three-spine 

stickleback

0.2±1.1

(6) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Micropterus salmoides Largemouth bass 0 0 0 0.03±0.2

(1) 0 0 0 0

Menidia beryllina Inland silverside 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.1±0.6

(3) 0

Odonata spp. Dragonfly/Damselfly 

larvae 0 0 0 0 0 0.05±0.3(2) 0 0

Orconectes spp. Crayfish species 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.03±0.2

(1)

Palaemonetes 

pugio/vulgaris Grass shrimp 0 0 0 0.03±0.2(1) 0 0 10.6±20.8(317)2

1.0±2.9

(28)3

Pungitius pungitius Nine-spine stickleback 0 0.5±2.1

(8) 0 0 0.03±0.2(1) 0 0 0.1±0.4(4)

Rhithropanopeus harrisii Harris mud crab 0 0 0 0.03±0.2

(1) 0 0.03±0.1(1)

0.03±0.2

(1)

0.1±0.4

(4)

1 Possibly nine-spine stickleback (voucher specimen not available for verification). Brook sticklebacks have not been east of the Connecticut River. 2 Individuals that were large enough to be identified were P. vulgaris. 3 An additional 15.3±51.0 SD per throw trap (m-2

) (444) individuals of Palaemonetes /Crangon shrimp were collected but were too small to be positively 

identified.
53

Table 10. Nekton composition collected with a throw trap in the turning basin at Saugus Iron Works NHS during pre-restoration monitoring (2004) 

and post-restoration monitoring (2008 to 2014). Sample size is given after year.

Scientific Name Common Name

Average abundance ± SD per throw trap (m-2) and total number of individuals

(in parentheses) collected in turning basin throw traps

2008

n=11

2009

n=21

2010

n=15

2011

n=22

2012

n=18

2013

n=21

2014

n=18

Anguilla rostrata American eel 2.6±3.3

(29)

5.3±9.3

(112)

4.9±8.1

(73)

5.1±4.9

(112)

5.6±8.4

(101)

4.9±6.9

(102)

1.7±2.1

(31)

Apeltes quadracus Four-spine stickleback 1.4±1.9

(15)

4.4±10.2

(93)

2.5±5.6

(37)

5.5±8.4

(120)

5.8±9.4

(105)

0.8±1.3

(16)

2.1±3.8

(38)

Catostomus commersoni White sucker 0 2.6±10.0

(54)

0.5±1.5

(8)

0.05±0.2

(1) 0 0 0.5±1.3(9)

Crangon septemspinosa Sevenspine bay shrimp 0 0 0 0 0 0.9±4.1

(20)

0.2±0.5

(3)

Fundulus heteroclitus Mummichog 0 0.3±0.9

(6)

5.7±12.0

(85)

0.2±0.5

(4)

6.4±22.7

(116)

3.1±11.9

(64)

3.0±7.1

(54)

Lepomis gibbosus Pumpkinseed 0 0.0±0.2

(1) 0 0 0 0.05±0.2(1) 0

Lepomis macrochirus Bluegill 0.9±1.4

(10) 0 0 0.4±0.9(9) 0 0 0

Menidia beryllina Inland silverside 0 0 0.1±0.4

(2) 0 0 0 0

Micropterus salmoides Largemouth bass 0 0 0.2±0.4

(3) 0 0 0.05±0.(1)

0.06±0.2

(1)

Morone americana White perch 0 0 0 0.05±0.2

(1) 0 0 0

Odonata spp. Dragonfly/Damselfly larvae 0 0 1.0±1.7

(15)

0.05±0.2

(1)

1.3±2.4

(24)

0.8±1.3

(17)

0.06±0.2

(1)

Orconectes species Crayfish species 0 0 0 0.05±0.2

(1) 0 0.05±0.2(1) 0

Palaemonetes pugio/vulgaris Grass shrimp 0 0 0.2±0.4

(3) 0 0 0.9±2.7(20)1 0

Pungitius pungitius Nine-spine stickleback 0.1±0.3

(1) 0 0.1±0.3(1)

0.5±1.2

(10) 0 0 0

Rhithropanopeus harrisii Harris mud crab 0 0 0.2±0.4

(3) 0 0 0.05±0.2(1) 0

1 Individuals that were large enough to be identified were P. vulgaris
54

Table 11. Nekton composition collected with a seine in the river at Saugus Iron Works NHS during pre-restoration monitoring (2004) and postrestoration monitoring (2008 to 2014). Sample size is given after year.

Scientific Name Common Name

Average number of individuals per seine haul in the river 

(total catch indicated in parentheses)

2004

Upper river

n=2

2004

Hamilton St. 

n=5

2009

n=11

2010 

n=12

2011

n=12

2012

n=11

2013

n=10

2014

n=10

Alosa aestivalis Blueback herring 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 11.0 

(110)

Alosa pseudoharengus Alewife 2.5

(5)

0.2 

(1) 0 0 0 0.3 (3) 0 0

Ameiurus nebulosus Brown bullhead 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.1 

(1) 0

Anguilla rostrata American eel 0.5 

(1) 0 0.1 (1) 0 0 0 0 0

Apeltes quadracus Four-spine stickleback 4.0

(8)

23.4 

(117)

74.5 

(820)

1.3 

(16)

30.1 

(361)

9.4 

(104)

16.6 

(166)

22.1 

(221)

Catostomus commersoni White sucker 1.0 

(2)

168.2 

(841)

71.7 

(189)

37.8 

(453)

56.4 

(677)

6.4 

(71)

3.9 

(39)

6.0

(60)

Culaea inconstans 1 Brook stickleback 1.5 

(3)

15.2 

(76) 0 0 0 0 0 0

Crangon septemspinosa Sevenspine bay shrimp 0 0 0 0 0 0 16.9 

(169)

13.6 

(136)

Esox americanus americanus Redfin pickerel 0 0.2 

(1)

0.3 

(3)

0.1 

(1)

0.3 

(3) 0 1.0 (10) 0

Esox americanus vermiculatus Grass pickerel 0 0 0.2 

(2) 0 0 0 0 0

Fundulus heteroclitus Mummichog 0 1.2 

(6)

18.1 

(199)

340.4 

(4085)

162.2 

(1946)

239.9 

(2639)

338.0 

(3380)

250.1 

(2501)

Lepomis macrochirus Bluegill 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Menidia beryllina inland silverside 0 0 0 29.2 

(350)

1.3 

(16)

1.1 

(12)

4.6 

(46)

4.5 

(45)

Micropterus salmoides Largemouth bass 0 0.8 

(4) 0 3.3 (39)

0.2 

(2) 0 0.6 (6) 0

Morone americana White perch 0 0.6 

(3) 0 0 0 0 0 0

Mugil curema White mullet 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.1 

(1) 0
55

Table 11. Nekton composition collected with a seine in the river at Saugus Iron Works NHS during pre-restoration monitoring (2004) and postrestoration monitoring (2008 to 2014). Sample size is given after year (continued).

Scientific Name Common Name

Average number of individuals per seine haul in the river 

(total catch indicated in parentheses)

2004

Upper river

n=2

2004

Hamilton St. 

n=5

2009

n=11

2010 

n=12

2011

n=12

2012

n=11

2013

n=10

2014

n=10

Odonata species Dragonfly/damselfly larvae 0 0 0 0.1 

(1)

0.1 

(1)

0.2 

(2)

0.1 

(1) 0

Orconectes species Crayfish species 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.2 

(2) 0

Palaemonetes pugio/vulgaris2 Grass shrimp 0 0 0 0 0 0 5.7 

(57) 0

Pungitius pungitius Nine-spine stickleback 0 0.4 

(2)

0.2 

(2)

0.1

(1)

1.2 

(14)

0.1 

(1)

0.5 

(5)

0.6 

(6)

Rhithropanopeus harrisii Harris mud crab 0 0.2 

(1) 0 0 0 0.1 (1)

0.3 

(3)

0.7 

(7)

Average abundance per haul 9.5

(19)

210.4

(1052)

165.1 

(1816)

412.1 

(4945)

251.8 

(3020)

257.6 

(2834)

388.6 

(3886)

308.7 

(3087)

1 Possibly nine-spine stickleback (voucher specimen not available for verification). Brook sticklebacks have not been verified east of the 

Connecticut River.

2 Individuals that were large enough to be identified were P. vulgaris.
56

Table 12. Nekton composition collected with a seine in the turning basin at Saugus Iron Works NHS during pre-restoration monitoring (2004) and 

post-restoration monitoring (2008 to 2014). Sample size is given after year.

Scientific Name Common Name

Average abundance per seine haul in the turning basin

(total catch)

2008

n=11

2009

n=21

2010

n=15

2011

n=22

2012

n=18

2013

n=21

2014

n=18

Alosa aestivalis Blueback herring 0 0 0 0 0 1.4

(10)

0.4

(2)

Ameiurus natalis Yellow bullhead 0 0 0 0.3

(2) 0 0 0

Anchoa mitchilli Bay anchovy 0 0 0 0 0 0.3

(2) 0

Anguilla rostrata American eel 0 0.8

(5)

0.2

(1)

0.5

(4)

1.0

(7)

0.7

(5)

0.2

(1)

Apeltes quadracus Four-spine stickleback 5.7

(17)

150.5

(903)

6.7

(40)

30.6

(245)

25.5

(178)

10.9

(76)

24.6

(123)

Catostomus commersoni White sucker 15.7

(47)

92.3

(554)

14.2

(85)

0.6

(5) 0 0 84.6(423)

Crangon septemspinosa Sevenspine bay shrimp 0 0 0 0 0 4.4

(31) 0

Esox americanus 

americanus Redfin pickerel 0 0.2(1) 0 0.4(3) 0 1.7(12) 0

Fundulus heteroclitus Mummichog 0 15.7

(94)

99.0

(594)

7.0

(56)

342.7

(2399)

77.4

(542)

203.2

(1016)

Lepomis gibbosus Pumpkinseed 0 0.2

(1) 0 0 0 0.1(1) 0

Lepomis macrochirus Bluegill 14.0

(42)

5.2

(31) 0 8.5(68)

5.7

(40)

0.1

(1) 0

Menidia beryllina Inland silverside 0 0 0.7

(4) 0 0 1.6(11)

0.8

(4)

Micropterus salmoides Largemouth bass 2.0

(6)

9.0

(54)

2.7

(16)

3.8

(30) 0 2.1(15)

0.6

(3)

Morone americana White perch 0.3

(1) 0 0 0.7(5) 0 0 0

Morone saxatilis Striped bass 0 0 0 0 0.1

(1) 0 0

Notemigonus crysoleucas Golden shiner 0 0 0 0.3

(2)

0.1

(1) 0 0
57

Table 12. Nekton composition collected with a seine in the turning basin at Saugus Iron Works NHS during pre-restoration monitoring (2004) and 

post-restoration monitoring (2008 to 2014). Sample size is given after year (continued).

Scientific Name Common Name

Average abundance per seine haul in the turning basin

(total catch)

2008

n=11

2009

n=21

2010

n=15

2011

n=22

2012

n=18

2013

n=21

2014

n=18

Odonata species Dragonfly/damselfly larvae 0 0 0.5

(3) 0 0.6(4)

0.3

(2)

0.4

(2)

Orconectes species Crayfish species 0 0 0 0 0 0.6

(4) 0

Palaemonetes pugio/vulgaris Grass shrimp 0 0 0.2

(1) 0 0 3.6(25) 0

Pimephales promelas Fathead minnow 0 0.2

(1) 0 0 0 0 0

Pungitius pungitius Nine-spine stickleback 0 0.3

(2)

1.0

(6)

4.4

(35)

0.3

(2)

0.1

(1)

0.8

(4)

Lithobates species1 Tadpole species 0 0 0 0.1

(1) 0 0 0

Average total abundance per haul 37.7 

(113)

274.3 

(1646)

125.0 

(750)

57.0 

(456)

376.3 

(2634)

105.4 

(738)

315.6 

(1578)

1 Likely either bull frog (L. catesbeianus) or green frog (L. clamitans), as tadpoles of these species are present in the fall and can overwinter as 

tadpoles (R. Cook, Wildlife Ecologist, National Park Service, email communication 7 Nov 2011).
58

Figure 19. Mean lengths (mm ± SD) of common fish sampled at Saugus Iron Works NHS with throw traps and seines during pre-restoration 

(2004) and post-restoration (2008 to 2014) monitoring. Mean adult length (mm) is given under each species name for reference.
59

Table 13. Environmental data (average ± SD) associated with nekton sampling (sampling occurred during 

ebb tides). Sample size is given after location. Bold, underlined values indicate samples outside of Class 

SB water quality criteria (Massachusetts Water Quality Criteria CMR 314 4.0).

Sampling Date

Water Temperature1

°C

(maximum)

Salinity

ppt

Dissolved Oxygen2

mg l-1

(minimum)

9 June 2004 (n=16) (river) 21.5 ± 1.4 (23.9) 0.3 ± 0.04 7.4 ± 0.5 (6.3)

5 Aug 2004 (n=16) (river) 19.9 ± 0.8 (20.9) 0.1 ± 0.1 7.5 ± 0.5 (6.3)

18 Sept 2008 (n=11, basin) 18.4 ± 0.8 (20.1) 0.5 ± 0.8 8.3 ± 1.3 (7.5)

23 Sept 23 2008 (n=15, river) 14.7 ± 0.4 (15.5) 0.3 ± 0.0 9.4 ± 0.2 (8.9)

15 July 2009 (n=13, basin) 24.1 ± 4.7 (31.0) 0.4 ± 0.06 6.1 ± 5.3 (1.7)

15 July 2009 (n=19, river) 19.7 ± 1.8 (26.5) 0.4 ± 0.05 6.4 ± 3.2 (2.6)

14 & 15 Sept 2009 (n=13, basin) 18.6 ± 1.0 (21.0) 0.7 ± 0.1 7.23 ± 0.2 (7.0)

14 & 15 Sept 2009 (n=20, river) 18.6 ± 0.7 (19.9) 0.3 ± 0.1 8.6 ± 0.4 (7.2)

19 July 2010 (n=10, basin) 28.4 ± 0.8 (30.0) 3.5 ± 2.8 8.5 ± 2.4 (5.5)

19 July 2010 (n=22, river) 25.9 ± 1.5 (28.7) 0.4 ± 0.5 9.6 ± 3.1 (1.9)

1 Sept 2010 (n=11, basin) 23.2 ± 1.0 (25.0) 2.1 ± 2.6 10.5 ± 2.8 (7.2)

1 Sept 2010 (n=23, river) 23.9 ± 0.8 (26.1) 0.4 ± 0.2 11.7 ± 0.6 (9.9)

7 July 2011 (n=14, basin) 23.0 ± 1.6 (27.6) 0.4 ± 0.4 8.14 ± 0.7 (6.9)

7 July 2011 (n=22, river) 24.1 ± 1.2 (27.0) 0.4 ± 0.4 8.6 ± 0.6 (6.9)

6 Sept 2011 (n=16, basin) 21.1 ± 0.9 (22.0) 0 ± 0 6.4 ± 1.3 (4.6)

6 Sept 2011 (n=22, river) 19.7 ± 0.5 (20.8) 0.2 ± 0.1 7.3 ± 0.4 (6.4)

10 July 2012 (n=17, basin) 23.5 ± 2.4 (28.6) 0.4 ± 0.3 6.5 ± 2.1 (1.0)

10 July 2012 (n=22, creek) 21.6 ± 0.9 (23.2) 0.4 ± 0.3 8.3 ± 0.5 (7.3)

6 & 7 Sept 2012 (n=7, basin) 21.7 ± 0.8 (23.0) 0.5 ± 0.8 7.14 ± 1.8 (3.2)

6 & 7 Sept 2012 (n=21, creek) 21.8 ± 0.5 (23.0) 0.2 ± 0.1 9.7 ± 0.6 (8.1)

15 & 16 July 2013 (n=13, basin) 25.5 ± 1.7 (30.0) 0.3 ± 0.2 5.4 ± 2.6 (1.3)

15 & 16 July 2013 (n=20, creek) 24.8 ± 0.7 (26.0) 0.0 ± 0.1 8.8 ± 0.6 (8.1)

9-12 Sept 2013 (n=25, basin) 19.8 ± 3.5 (27.1) 0.9 ± 2.9 7.7 ± 3.2 (1.9)

9-12 Sept 2013 (n=20, creek) 19.5 ± 2.6 (26.0) 1.6 ± 1.0 11.5 ± 2.7 (3.1)

17 July 2014 (n=13, basin) 22.5 ± 1.2 (25.4) 1.0 ± 0.8 7.5 ± 0.7 (6.2)

17 July 2014 (n=20, creek) 21.9 ± 0.7 (23.1) 1.4 ± 0.9 8.8 ± 0.3 (8.3)

15-17 Sept 2014 (n=10, basin) 17.9 ± 2.1 (21.0) 0.8 ± 1.4 13.1 ± 2.3 (11.9)

15-17 Sept 2014 (n=17, creek) 17.5 ± 1.2 (20.1) 0.7 ± 0.6 13.6 ± 2.6 (5.5)

1 Acceptable value for temperature (Class SB waters) is <29.4°C (MA CMR 314 4.0).

2 Acceptable value for dissolved oxygen (Class SB waters) is >5 mg l-1 (MA CMR 314 4.0).

3 Only three readings taken.

4 Values based on 8-10 readings taken throughout turning basin.
60

Table 14. List of exotic and native transplant nekton (species native to the U.S. that have been introduced 

to areas outside of their original range) recorded during sampling. Status information is from the USGS 

Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database.

Scientific Name Common Name Status Year(s) Observed

Carcinus maenas Green crab Exotic 2004

Lepomis macrochirus Bluegill Native transplant 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2013

Micropterus salmoides Largemouth bass Native transplant 2004, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014

Figure 20. Rainbow smelt catch (number of individuals collected) at SAIR from 2005-2011 (data from MA 

DMF).

Avian community

NETN avian monitoring was initiated in 2008. Twenty-one to 33 species have been detected annually 

by Network monitoring, for a net total of 42 species detected in the park including areas outside of 

the restoration area (Table 15) (Faccio and Mitchell 2009). During park wildlife observations in the 

restoration area, 31 to 69 species have been detected from 2009 to 2014 (excluding five taxa that 

were only identified as duck, heron, gull, shorebird, or sparrow), for a net total of 101 species 

observed during wildlife observations (McNiff and Albert 2010, Albert and Bloch 2011, Welch and 

Albert 2012, Albert et al. In Prep., Table 15). Together both monitoring programs have detected 101 

species of birds at SAIR since 2008.

Data from the 2002-2003 NETN avian surveys (wetland and forested station data only) (Trocki and 

Paton 2005) were used to compare the bird community before and after the restoration. Since the 

restoration of the turning basin there has been an increase in the number of waterbirds (waterfowl, 

waders, and shorebirds) observed at the park (Figure 21). Prior to the restoration of the turning basin 
61

no shorebirds (e.g., sandpipers, plovers), and only a few waders (e.g., egrets, herons) and waterfowl 

(e.g., geese, ducks, mergansers) were observed. After the restoration several waterbird species were 

observed, likely a result of the newly created open water and tidal flats of the turning basin. 

Seven species observed in the restoration area during park wildlife monitoring (2009-2012, zones 

were not recorded in 2013-2014) were listed as priority species by Partners in Flight (PIF) for the 

Southern New England area (Dettmers and Rosenberg 2000) (Table 15). The Baltimore oriole 

(Icterus galbula) has a PIF status of IA: High Continental Priority-High Regional Responsibility 

indicating that conservation of these species is of concern throughout their range and that 

conservation in the region is critical to the overall health of the species. The American black duck 

(Anas rubripes) has a PIF status of IIC: High Regional Priority, High Regional Threat, indicating that 

it is of moderate continental priority and is uncommon in the region and whose remaining 

populations are threatened, usually because of extreme threats to sensitive habitats. The other five 

species: American bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus), black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax 

nycticorax), great blue heron (Ardea Herodias), great egret (Ardea alba), osprey (Pandion haliaetus), 

and snowy egret (Egretta thula) were PIF status of V: Additional State Listed Species, indicating that 

the species is of special interest locally (Dettmers and Rosenberg 2000).

Other non-wetland PIF birds observed at SAIR during informal surveys in 2013 and 2014 were: 

black and white warbler (Mniotilta varia), chimney swift (Chaetura pelagica), and Eastern woodpeewee (Contopus virens). These species have a PIF status of IIA: High Regional Concern and 

includes species that are experiencing declines in the core of their range and that require short-term 

conservation action to reverse or stabilize trends.

Mammals and other wildlife

Twelve species (four amphibians/reptiles and eight mammals) were observed in the restoration area 

(high marsh, low marsh, mudflat, turning basin, river channel, and berm/riffle zones) from 2008 to 

2012 (McNiff and Albert 2010, Albert and Bloch 2011, Welch and Albert 2012; Albert et al. In 

Prep.) (Table 16). Informal wildlife observations in 2013-2014 observed two additional snake and 

two additional mammal species. In March 2015, a mink was spotted in the river by park staff (M. 

Albert, personal communication, email 27 April 2015), bringing the total number of non-avian 

wildlife species observed in the park to 17 (six amphibians/reptiles and 11 mammals). All mammals, 

with the exception of the Northern American river otter (observed in 2009) and American mink 

(observed in 2015), were also observed during the park-wide 2004 NETN Mammal Inventory at 

SAIR (Gilbert et al. 2008).

The common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentine) resides and breeds in the park. Snapping turtle 

nests are laid on the slag pile, along the bulkhead, and adjacent to the blacksmith shop (Albert et al. 

In Prep.). The Northern two-lined salamander (Eurycea bislineata) has been observed in freshwater 

seeps on both sides of the Saugus River (Albert et al. In Prep.). In 2012, a female painted turtle was 

caught (and released unharmed) in a seine haul in the deep hole near the berm in the turning basin. 

None of the observed wildlife species were designated as threatened, endangered, or of special 

concern by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife 

2010).
62

Tidal inundation (Section retained from James-Pirri 2013)

Water level data from the HOBO loggers on the marsh surface indicate that the restored marsh is 

inundated twice daily by tidal waters. Loggers in both the lower marsh zone near the river (HOBO #1 

and #3) and those in the zone closer to the upland (HOBO #2 and #4) exhibited similar tidal and 

lunar signals (Figure 22). The surface of the restored marsh is flooded approximately 4 hr per tidal 

cycle, or approximately 25% of the time, and can be flooded to a 1 m depth on lunar tides.

NETN water quality monitoring (Section retained from James-Pirri 2013)

The NETN has monitored water quality following the protocols in NETN Lakes and Streams Water 

Quality Protocol (Lombard et al. 2006) at SAIR since 2006. Based on the NETN water quality 

monitoring (2006 to 2012, more recent data will be incorporated into the final monitoring report), 

temperature, dissolved oxygen, and pH of the restored turning basin were within acceptable ranges, 

except for temperature in 2009 (Table 17). Elevated values for total nitrogen and total phosphorus 

have been observed in the turning basin and the Saugus River since monitoring was initiated (with 

the exception of total phosphorus in the Saugus River in 2007) (Table 17).

CH2MHill (consultant) data summary (Section retained from James-Pirri 2013)

Tidal hydrology

Data from CH2MHill (2013) indicate that salinity in the Saugus River and turning basin (data from 

“Turning Basin” YSI sonde (refer to Figure 11) indicated that higher salinity values (~20 ppt) were 

associated with lunar high tides and low river flow events (CH2MHill 2103). Salinity values 

generally fluctuated between 0 and 16 ppt (Figure 23) with values >20 ppt most often observed in 

2010, which was a dry year, while in other years (2008 and 2012) salinity rarely, if at all, exceeded 

20 ppt (CH2MHill 2013). Salinity of water inundating the marsh surface can reach 10-15ppt, 

especially during new and full moon high tides; however, there are also extended periods of 

freshwater inundation between lunar cycles (Figure 24). 

River geomorphology

Cross-dimensional transects of the Saugus River indicated that some redistribution of sediment has 

occurred in the riverbed. The most notable change was erosion of the berm elevation likely due to a 

storm and exceptionally high river discharge in April 2010. The berm elevation remained stable from 

2010 to 2012. There has been some accretion of sediment at the south western end of the turning 

basin from 2010 to 2012; however, this area lost elevation from 2008 to 2010 and its elevation in 

2012 was similar to that observed in 2008 (CH2MHill 2013). Changes in the elevation of the restored 

marsh surface were also noted. In 2010, the marsh surface was slightly scoured resulting in a 

decrease in elevation of approximately 9 cm, but this area has since accumulated sediment and was 

approximately 15 cm higher in elevation than it was in 2008 (CH2MHill 2013).

Sediment and water quality

Prior to restoration, elevated concentrations of metals (arsenic, chromium, lead, nickel, and zinc) and 

polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were found in the marsh sediments. In general, metal 

concentrations were lower in 2012 compared to 2010, except for arsenic which has shown a 

consistent increase in concentration over time since the completion of the restoration in 2008. None 
63

of the metals or PAHs detected in 2012 exceeded the probable effect concentration, indicating that 

none of these contaminants likely pose a risk to sediment dwelling organisms (CH2MHill 2013). No 

metals were detected in the one surface water quality sample collected in May 2012.

Benthic invertebrate community

The benthic invertebrate community sampled in May 2012 was primarily composed of Dipteran 

chironomids (non-biting midges) (35% of the community). The second most abundant invertebrates 

were oligochaete worms (34% of the community). Ostracods were the third most abundant 

comprising 19% of the benthic invertebrate community. Other invertebrates present included 

amphipods and polychaete worms (CH2MHill 2013). The Hilsenhoff Biotic Index (HBI), an index 

that scored the degree of organic pollution based on the macroinvertebrate community tolerance to 

water quality, ranged between 6.31 and 9.06. This HBI score suggested that water quality ranged 

from fair to very poor and indicated significant organic pollution was present in the Saugus River at 

SAIR. The benthic community in 2008 and 2012 was dominated by dipteran insects and oligochaete 

worms, whereas in 2008 these taxa declined in abundance. The shift in the benthic community in 

2010 could be related to the unusually high salinity recorded in 2010, a result of low river flow that 

allowed the tidal salinity wedge to penetrate further upstream (CH2MHill 2013)
64

Table 15. Birds observed at SAIR from 2008 to 2014 during NETN monitoring and park wildlife observations. Partners in Flight status1, if 

applicable, is indicated in parentheses after name. Non-native species are indicated in bold type. N: NETN observations, P: Park wildlife 

observations.

Scientific Name1 Common Name Category 2008 20092 20102 20112 20122 20133 20143

Accipter cooperii Cooper’s hawk Non-waterbird P P

Actitis macularia Spotted sandpiper Shorebird P N/P P N/P P P

Agelaius phoeniceus Red-winged blackbird Non-waterbird N N/P N/P N/P N/P P P

Aix sponsa Wood duck Waterfowl P

Anas crecca Green-winged teal Waterfowl P P P

Anas discors Blue-winged teal Waterfowl P P

Anas platyrhynchos Mallard Waterfowl N N/P N/P N/P N/P P P

Anas rubripes (IIC) American black duck Waterfowl P P P P P

Anas rubripes x platyrhynchos American black duck x mallard hybrid Waterfowl P

Anatidae species Muscovy duck hybrid Waterfowl P

Archilochus colubris Ruby-throated Hummingbird Non-waterbird P

Ardea alba (V) Great egret Wader N/P P P P P

Ardea herodias (V) Great blue heron Wader N/P P N/P P P P

Baeolophus bicolor Tufted titmouse Non-waterbird N N P P P

Bombycilla cedrorum Cedar waxwing Non-waterbird P P

Botaurus lentiginosus (V) American bittern Wader P P

Branta canadensis Canada goose Waterfowl N/P N/P P N/P P P

Bucephala albeola Bufflehead Waterfowl P P

Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed hawk Non-waterbird P N P P P P

Buteo lineatus Red-shouldered hawk Non-waterbird P

Butorides virescens Green heron Wader P P P P

Calidris alba Sanderling Shorebird P P

Calidris melanotos Pectoral Sandpiper Shorebird P

Calidris minutilla Least sandpiper Shorebird P P P P P
65

Table 15. Birds observed at SAIR from 2008 to 2014 during NETN monitoring and park wildlife observations. Partners in Flight status1, if 

applicable, is indicated in parentheses after name. Non-native species are indicated in bold type. N: NETN observations, P: Park wildlife 

observations (continued).

Scientific Name1 Common Name Category 2008 20092 20102 20112 20122 20133 20143

Calidris pusilla Semipalmated sandpiper Shorebird P P P P P

Calidris species Sandpiper species Shorebird P P P

Cardinalis cardinalis Northern cardinal Non-waterbird N N/P N P N/P P P

Carduelis tristis American goldfinch Non-waterbird N/P N/P N/P P P

Carpodacus mexicanus House finch Non-waterbird P P P

Catharus guttatus Hermit thrush Non-waterbird P

Chaetura pelagica (IIA) Chimney swift Non-waterbird N N N/P N/P P P

Charadrius semipalmatus Semipalmated plover Shorebird P P P P

Charadrius vociferus Killdeer Shorebird N P P P P P

Colaptes auratus Northern/Yellow shafted flicker Non-waterbird N N N N/P P P

Columba livia Rock pigeon Non-waterbird N N/P N/P P N/P P

Contopus virens (IIA) Eastern wood-peewee Non-waterbird P P

Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow Non-waterbird N N/P N/P N/P P P P

Corvus ossifragus Fish crow Non-waterbird P

Cyanocitta cristata Blue jay Non-waterbird N N N N/P N/P P P

Dendroica petechia Yellow warbler Non-waterbird P N N P

Dendroica magnolia Magnolia warbler Non-waterbird P

Dendroica palmarum Palm warbler Non-waterbird P

Dendroica petechia Yellow warbler Non-waterbird P

Dumetella carolinensis Gray catbird Non-waterbird N N/P N N/P N/P P P

Egretta thula (V) Snowy egret Wader P P P N/P P P

Empidonax alnorum Alder flycatcher Non-waterbird P

Empidonax minimus Least flycatcher Non-waterbird P

Empidonax species Flycatcher species Non-waterbird P
66

Table 15. Birds observed at SAIR from 2008 to 2014 during NETN monitoring and park wildlife observations. Partners in Flight status1, if 

applicable, is indicated in parentheses after name. Non-native species are indicated in bold type. N: NETN observations, P: Park wildlife 

observations (continued).

Scientific Name1 Common Name Category 2008 20092 20102 20112 20122 20133 20143

Euphagus carolinus Rusty blackbird Non-waterbird P

Falco sparverius American kestrel Non-waterbird P

Geothlypis trichas Common yellowthroat Non-waterbird N N N P

Hirundo rustica Barn swallow Non-waterbird N N/P N/P N/P N/P P P

Icterus galbula (IA) Baltimore oriole Non-waterbird N N N N N/P P

Junco hyemalis Dark-eyed junco Non-waterbird P P P

Larus argentatus Herring gull Gull N N N/P N/P N/P P P

Larus delawarensis Ringed-billed gull Gull P P P P P

Larus marinus Great black-backed gull Gull N P N/P P P

Lophodytes cucullatus Hooded merganser Waterfowl P P P P

Megaceryle alcyon Belted kingfisher Non-waterbird N P P N/P N/P P P

Melanerpes aurifrons Red-bellied woodpecker Non-waterbird P

Melospiza georgiana Swamp sparrow Non-waterbird P P

Melospiza melodia Song sparrow Non-waterbird N N/P N/P N/P N/P P P

Mergus merganser Common merganser Waterfowl P P

Mergus serrator Red-breasted Merganser Waterfowl P P

Mimus polyglottos Northern mockingbird Non-waterbird P P P

Mniotilta varia (IIA) Black and white warbler Non-waterbird P

Molothrus ater Brown-headed cowbird Non-waterbird N P N/P P

Nycticorax nycticorax (V) Black-crowned night-heron Wader N N/P N/P N/P P P P

Pandion haliaetus (V) Osprey Non-waterbird P P P P

Passer domesticus House sparrow Non-waterbird N P N N/P N/P P P

Passer sandwichensis Savannah sparrow Non-waterbird P P P

Phalacrocorax auritus Double-crested cormorant Waterfowl P P P P P P
67

Table 15. Birds observed at SAIR from 2008 to 2014 during NETN monitoring and park wildlife observations. Partners in Flight status1, if 

applicable, is indicated in parentheses after name. Non-native species are indicated in bold type. N: NETN observations, P: Park wildlife 

observations (continued).

Scientific Name1 Common Name Category 2008 20092 20102 20112 20122 20133 20143

Picoides pubescens Downy woodpecker Non-waterbird N N N N/P P P

Pluvialis squatarola Black-bellied plover Shorebird P

Poecile atricapillus Black-capped chickadee Non-waterbird N N/P P P P

Quiscalus quiscula Common grackle Non-waterbird N N N/P N/P N/P P P

Regulus calendula Ruby-crowned kinglet Non-waterbird P

Sayornis phoebe Eastern phoebe Non-waterbird N N N/P P P

Setophaga coronata Yellow-rumped warbler Non-waterbird P P

Setophaga petechia Yellow warbler Non-waterbird P

Setophaga species Warbler species Non-waterbird P

Sitta carolinensis White-breasted nuthatch Non-waterbird N P P P

Spinus tristis American goldfinch Non-waterbird P

Spizella arborea American tree sparrow Non-waterbird P P

Spizella pusilla Field sparrow Non-waterbird P

Sturnus vulgaris European starling Non-waterbird N N/P N N/P N/P P P

Tachycineta bicolor Tree swallow Non-waterbird P P

Thryothorus ludovicianus Carolina wren Non-waterbird N P P P

Toxostoma rufum Brown thrasher Non-waterbird P

Tringa flavipes Lesser yellowlegs Shorebird P P P

Tringa melanoleuca Greater yellowlegs Shorebird P P P P

Tringa solitaria Solitary Sandpiper Shorebird P P

Troglodytes aedon House wren Non-waterbird N/P N/P P

Troglodyteshiemalis Winter wren Non-waterbird P

Turdus migratorius American robin Non-waterbird N N/P N/P N/P N/P P P

Tyrannus tyrannus Eastern kingbird Non-waterbird N N/P N/P P P
68

Table 15. Birds observed at SAIR from 2008 to 2014 during NETN monitoring and park wildlife observations. Partners in Flight status1, if 

applicable, is indicated in parentheses after name. Non-native species are indicated in bold type. N: NETN observations, P: Park wildlife 

observations (continued).

Scientific Name1 Common Name Category 2008 20092 20102 20112 20122 20133 20143

Vireo gilvus Warbling vireo Non-waterbird N N N/P P P

Vireo olivaceus Red-eyed vireo Non-waterbird N P

Zenaida macroura Mourning dove Non-waterbird N N N P P P

Zonotricha albicollis White-throated sparrow Non-waterbird P P P

n/a Parakeet (yellow) Non-waterbird P

n/a Unknown duck n/a P

n/a Unknown gull n/a P P P P

n/a Unknown heron n/a P

n/a Unknown shorebird n/a P

n/a Unknown sparrow n/a P P

Total species detected 22 33/31 29/32 24/48 26/68 60 69

1 Partners in Flight status: IA: High Continental Priority, High Regional Responsibility; IIA: High Regional Priority, High Regional Concern; IIC: 

High Regional Priority, High Regional Threat; V: Additional State Listed (Dettmers and Rosenberg 2000).

2 Only data for birds observed during park wildlife observations in the six restoration zones (high marsh, low marsh, mudflat, turning basin, 

river channel, and berm/riffle area) in 2009 to 2012 are presented.

3 Observation zones (refer to Figure 10) were not recorded in 2013 and 2014.
69

Figure 21. Number of waterbird species observed before restoration (2002-2003) and after (2008-2014, 

NETN and Park Wildlife data combined) the restoration of the turning basin and restored wetland. 
70

Table 16. Species observed in the restoration area during the wildlife observation program (2009 to 2012) 

and incidental observations (2013 to 2014) at Saugus Iron Works. Note: an American mink (Mustela 

vison) was observed in the river and along the river bank in March 2015.

Scientific Name Common Name 20091 20102 20113 20124 20135 20145

Amphibians and reptiles

Anaxyrus americanus American toad X

Chelydra serpentine Common snapping turtle X X X X X

Chrysemys picta Painted turtle X X X

Eurycea bislineata Northern two-lined 

salamander X X X

Storeria dekayi Brown snake X

Storeria occipitomaculata Red-bellied snake X

Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis Eastern garter snake X X

Mammals

Blarina brevicauda Northern short-tailed shrew X

Felis catus Domestic cat X X X

Lontra canadensis North American river otter X

Marmota monax Woodchuck X X X

Mephitis mephitis Striped skunk X

Ondatra zibethicus Muskrat X X

Procyon lotor Raccoon X X X

Sciurus carolinensis Eastern gray squirrel X X X X X X

Tamias striatus Eastern chipmunk X X X X

n/a Unknown bat species X

1 Data from McNiff and Albert 2010.

2 Data from Albert and Bloch 2011.

3 Data from Welch and Albert 2012.

4 Data from Albert et al. In Prep.

5 Data from S. Corona, personal communication, email 27 April 2015.
71

Table 17. Water quality measurements from NETN monitoring. Bold values indicate parameters that exceeded acceptable standards.

Parameter1 Acceptable value or range2 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Turning Basin3

Temperature (oC) <29.4 (summer), <2.2 (winter) -

4 14.0 16.5 20.7 23.1 16.3 17.3

Dissolved oxygen (mg l-1) >5 - 9.01 9.05 5.05 7.42 9.15 8.04

pH 6.5-8.5 - 7.44 7.54 7.23 7.73 7.39 7.20

Specific conductance (uS cm-1) None given - 1000 644 13721 12272 636.5 382.5

Total nitrogen (mg l-1) <0.71 mgl-1 - - 0.95 1.00 0.94 0.98 0.91

Total phosphorus (ug l-1) <50μg l-1 - - 45.0 51.0 51.0 50.0 84.0

Saugus River (at USGS stream gage)

Total nitrogen (mg l-1) <0.71 mgl-1 0.91 1.05 0.95 1.14 0.93 0.99 0.99

Total phosphorus (ug l-1) <50μg l-1 36.0 27.5 41.5 99.50 59.0 50.5 84.0

1 Values given are average annual readings from May and August.

2 Acceptable range or value from Massachusetts Water Quality Standards, Class SB waters, CMR 314 4.0.

3 The turning basin was restored in the fall of 2007, prior to that it was vegetated wetland.

4 “-“ indicates data were not available.
72

Figure 22. Tidal water inundation on the restored marsh surface for low marsh areas (top graph) and 

areas closer to the upland edge (bottom graph). Circles indicate dates of new moon (filled circles) and full 

moon (open circles). Inset shows location of HOBO loggers.
73

Figure 23. Salinity recorded by YSI sonde (graph excerpted from CH2MHill 2013).
74

Figure 24. Tidal water inundation on the restored marsh surface (Data from HOBO 1) overlaid on CH2MHill YSI water level and salinity data for 

the Saugus River. Circles indicate dates of new moon (filled circles) and full moon (open circles). 
75

Summary

Vegetation monitoring of the restored wetland indicated that the restoration was successful in 

removing the majority of the invasive common reed (Phragmites australis) from the restored wetland 

adjacent to the Saugus River (some common reed still persist along the upper wetland edge, but a 

much lower cover). Prior to the restoration (2004) this wetland was a monoculture of dense common 

reed. Since 2009, a small native spike sedge, dwarf spike rush (Eleocharis parvula), has slowly 

colonized the restored marsh and has generally increased in cover from 2009 to 2012. However, in 

2013 and 2014, the amount of bare ground/algal mat increased while the primary vegetative covers 

decreased. Although the NPS plantings were not very successful in the marsh interior, a few other 

native species have begun to colonize the restored area (e.g., water starwort [Callitriche species], 

horned pondweed [Zannichella palustris]), and dwarf spike rush. Bare ground and algal mat were 

abundant in all sampling years and although these areas were not colonized by vascular plants, they 

provide foraging areas for many species of shorebirds that have frequented the marsh since the 

restoration. A diverse assemblage of vegetation was present along the upland edge (~2 m edge) of the 

restored marsh between the restored marsh and the riparian woodland. More than sixty species of 

plants were observed in this zone during the 2009-2014 restoration monitoring (compared to ~25 

species observed in the marsh interior). Some of the species along the upland edge could be from the 

NPS plantings (e.g., sweet flag [Acorus americanus], pickerelweed [Pontederia cordata], and 

common threesquare [Schoenoplectus pungens]); however, most were likely native volunteer plants 

that have recruited to the upland edge. A few invasive plants were present in the restored marsh, with 

purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) presenting the greatest threat since it re-appeared in 2011 to 

2013 after eradication efforts in 2010. The vegetated natural areas within the restoration zone (the 

small natural marshes just south of the turning basin and the riparian berm adjacent to the turning 

basin) had a diverse vegetation community with several invasive plants present. 

Aquatic vegetation in the river was dominated by horned pondweed, which has gradually increased 

in abundance from 2008 to 2014. Several other types of submerged aquatics have been observed in

the turning basin since 2008; however, horned pondweed was also the most common aquatic plant in 

the turning basin.

The nekton community in the Saugus River has transitioned from a mostly freshwater community to 

a brackish-estuarine community in later years. The catch of fresh to brackish water species such as 

four-spine stickleback (Apeltus quadracus) and white sucker (Catostomus commersoni) has declined 

while more estuarine tolerant species has increased in later years, with mummichogs (Fundulus 

heteroclitus), Palaemonetes and Crangon shrimp, becoming the dominant nekton in the river in later 

sampling years. In the turning basin, young-of-the-year American eel (Anguilla rostrata) were a 

common in all sampling years, with mummichogs (Fundulus heteroclitus) becoming increasingly 

abundant in later years. A few individuals of freshwater species were still sampled each year (e.g., 

largemouth bass [Micropterus salmoides] and redfin pickerel [Esox americanus americanus], 

although all species (with the exception of mummichogs and inland silversides [Menidia beryllina]), 

were juveniles or young-of-the-year and it is not known if these freshwater species survive in the 

river to adulthood. Although smelt catch has declined since the restoration, viable smelt eggs were
76

still found over a large area in the Saugus River at SAIR in 2011 and 2012, indicating that suitable 

spawning habitat was still present in the river.

Prior to restoration (2004) very little tidal salt water reached the turning basin. After the restoration

(YSI data from 2008, 2010, 2012) there was an upstream movement of the tidal salt water wedge 

during high tides and periods of low river flow, especially after the removal of the Hamilton Street 

Bridge. The upstream movement of tidal water after the restoration is likely the primary factor 

influencing the transition of the nekton community from a primarily freshwater community (before 

the restoration) to a brackish/estuarine community in the years following the restoration. The restored 

marsh and mud flats are inundated on a daily basis by tidal flow traveling up the Saugus River. The 

salinity of tidal waters inundating the marsh surface ranged from 0 ppt to 20 ppt. During new and full 

moons, salinity of the tidal waters on the marsh surface can range between 10-15ppt; whereas tidal 

waters are closer to 0 ppt at other moon phases.

The restored turning basin and marsh increased the amount of open water and created extensive tidal 

mud flats that provide habitat for a variety of wildlife. The number of waterbirds (shorebirds, waders, 

and waterfowl) observed in the restoration area has dramatically increased since 2008. Other wildlife 

observed in the park included six amphibian/reptile and 11 mammal species. 

The overall status of the Saugus River at SAIR was assessed by the Environmental Protection 

Agency (EPA) in 2012 as impaired for aesthetic uses; fish, other aquatic life and wildlife; primary 

contact recreation; secondary contact recreation; and shellfish harvesting (EPA 2015). Total 

Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) are needed related to elevated levels of fecal coliform (pathogens) 

for Primary Contact Recreation, Secondary Contact Recreation, and Shellfish Harvesting; for oil and 

grease related to fish, other aquatic life and wildlife; primary contact recreation; secondary contact 

recreation; and Water temperature related to fish, other aquatic life and wildlife. Flow Regime 

Alterations, a non-pollution impairment, was also listed related to aesthetic, fish, other aquatic 

wildlife and wildlife (EPA 2015). Elevated values for nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus) have been 

observed in both the Saugus River and restored turning basin (based on NETN data). In general, the 

concentration of contaminants in the river sediments has decreased since the restoration with none of 

the metals or PAHs detected in 2012 exceeding the probable effect concentration, indicating that 

none of these contaminants likely pose a risk to sediment dwelling organisms. The Hilsenhoff Biotic 

Index for benthic invertebrate communities (2008 and 2012 data) ranged from fair to very poor and 

indicated significant organic pollution was present in the Saugus River at SAIR. 
77

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81

Sources of Expertise

Marc Albert, Stewardship Program Director, Boston Harbor Islands National Park Area, Salem 

Maritime National Historic Site, Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site,15 State St., Suite 

1100, Boston MA.

Robin Baranowski, Research Assistant, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI.

Susannah Corona, National Park Service, Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site, Saugus, MA.

Hope Leeson, Rhode Island Natural History Survey, Kingston, RI.

Peter Sharpe, National Park Service, Fredericksburg, VA.

83

Appendix 

Appendix Figure 25. Photographs of a juvenile jack (Caranx species) caught in a minnow trap off the 

turning basin dock in September 2010. 

The Department of the Interior protects and manages the nation’s natural resources and cultural heritage; provides scientific 

and other information about those resources; and honors its special responsibilities to American Indians, Alaska Natives, and 

affiliated Island Communities.

NPS 444/129612, September 2015
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1201 Oakridge Drive, Suite 150

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