Draft Alternatives Analysis July 2011

DRAFT ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS
POND LILY DAM REMOVAL
WEST RIVER
NEW HAVEN, CONNECTICUT
July 2011
MMI #1899-08
Prepared for:
Town of Woodbridge
11 Meetinghouse Lane
Woodbridge, Connecticut 06525
Prepared by:
MILONE & MACBROOM, INC.

99 Realty Drive
Cheshire, CT 06410
(203) 271-1773
www.miloneandmacbroom.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Project Background .............................................................................................. 1-1
1.2 Project Goals and Objectives ............................................................................... 1-1
1.3 Previous Studies ................................................................................................... 1-3
1.4 Current Phase of Work Scope .............................................................................. 1-4
2.0 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

2.1 The West River – An Overview........................................................................... 2-1
2.2 Pond Lily Dam ..................................................................................................... 2-6
2.3 Preliminary Wetland Assessment ...................................................................... 2-10
2.4 Wildlife Assessment and Fishery Resources ..................................................... 2-19
2.5 West River Downstream of Pond Lily Dam ...................................................... 2-20
2.6 Sensitive Species Review .................................................................................. 2-23
2.7 Sensitive Historical/Archeological Resources ................................................... 2-23
3.0 SEDIMENT ANALYSIS

3.1 Overview .............................................................................................................. 3-1
3.2 Summary of 2011 Sediment Probing ................................................................... 3-1
3.3 Sampling Locations & Methodology ................................................................... 3-5
4.0 HYDROLOGY
4.1 Hydrologic Analysis ............................................................................................ 4-1
4.2 Flood Flows ......................................................................................................... 4-1
4.3 Low Flows ........................................................................................................... 4-3
5.0 HYDRAULIC ANALYSIS

5.1 Overview .............................................................................................................. 5-1
5.2 Model Results ...................................................................................................... 5-1
6.0 ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

6.1 Overview .............................................................................................................. 6-1
6.2 Target Fish Species .............................................................................................. 6-1
6.3 No Action Alternative .......................................................................................... 6-4
6.4 Alternative #1 – Full Spillway Removal ............................................................. 6-4
6.5 Alternative #2 – Partial Spillway Removal with Channel Alignment #1 ............ 6-5
6.8 Sediment Management Alternatives .................................................................. 6-10
6.9 Engineering and Ecological Considerations ...................................................... 6-10
6.10 Comparison of Alternatives ............................................................................... 6-13
6.11 Likely Permitting Requirements ........................................................................ 6-14
POND LILY DAM ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

WEST RIVER; NEW HAVEN, CONNECTICUT
JULY 2011 i
LIST OF TABLES
Table 2-1 Land Use in the West River Watershed ............................................................... 2-1
Table 2-2 Palustrine Open Water ....................................................................................... 2-11
Table 2-3 Palustrine Emergent Marsh ................................................................................ 2-13
Table 2-4 Palustrine Scrub Shrub....................................................................................... 2-14
Table 2-5 Palustrine Forested ............................................................................................. 2-15
Table 2-6 Upland Forested ................................................................................................. 2-16
Table 2-7 Upland Shrub/Meadow ...................................................................................... 2-17
Table 2-8 Pond Lily and Associated Wetland Functions and Values Assessment ............ 2-18
Table 2-9 Wildlife Inventory .............................................................................................. 2-19
Table 3-1 Estimated Sediment Volume................................................................................ 3-2

Table 3-2 Undrained In-Situ Sediment Shear Strengths ...................................................... 3-5
Table 4-1 West River Flood Discharges .............................................................................. 4-2

Table 4-2 West River Peak Annual Floods .......................................................................... 4-2
Table 4-3 Seasonal Flows from StreamStats Analysis......................................................... 4-3
Table 5-1 Hydraulic Models Provided by FEMA ................................................................ 5-2

Table 5-2 Preliminary Hydraulic Modeling Results – Water Surface Elevation ................. 5-3
Table 6-1 Fish Passage Requirements for Target Species ................................................... 6-2
Table 6-2 Comparison of Alternatives ............................................................................... 6-13
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1-1 Location Plan ....................................................................................................... 1-2
Figure 2-1 Watershed Map .................................................................................................... 2-2

Figure 2-2 Impoundments within the Watershed .................................................................. 2-4
Figure 2-3 Bridge Locations Along the West River .............................................................. 2-5
Figure 2-4 Wetland Vegetation Cover ................................................................................. 2-12
Figure 3-1 Sediment Types.................................................................................................... 3-3

Figure 3-2 Sediment Depths .................................................................................................. 3-4
Figure 6-1 Alternative #2....................................................................................................... 6-6

Figure 6-4 Illustrative Plan .................................................................................................. 6-15
Figure 6-5 Illustrative Section ............................................................................................. 6-16

JULY 2011 ii
LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix A List of Resources

Appendix B Soil Survey Mapping
Appendix C Natural Diversity Data Base Correspondence
Appendix D Cultural & Archeological Resource Correspondence

JULY 2011 iii
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Project Background
Milone & MacBroom, Inc. was retained by the Town of Woodbridge to analyze design
alternatives and evaluate the ecological impacts and benefits associated with full or partial
removal of the Pond Lily Dam. The Pond Lily impoundment covers almost four acres of open
water and wetlands, but much of it has filled with sediment and now supports an emergent wet
marsh. The dam consists of an earthen berm and a 191-foot long, six-foot high spillway over
which water is conveyed to the downstream reaches of West River. The dam is physically
located in the City of New Haven near its boundary with the Town of Woodbridge (the
impoundment extends into the Town of Woodbridge). The dam and surrounding land are owned
by the New Haven Land Trust.
The Town of Woodbury in collaboration with the New Haven Land Trust, American Rivers, the
Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), and the City of New
Haven are pursuing restoration of West River, improved fish passage, and ecological function of
the area near the Pond Lily Dam through partial or full dam removal. Other critically important
factors of interest are site aesthetics, public access, and education.
Project Goals & Objectives
The following goals and objectives have been identified for the removal of Pond Lily Dam and
restoration of the West River in the area of the impoundment. These have been formulated in
conjunction with local, state, and federal project partners and serve as a benchmark measure for
the effectiveness of each of the alternatives evaluated at this site. They are as follows:
1. Restore the river habitat to a more natural environment.

2. Enable passage of target fish species, including alewife, blueback herring, and American eel.
3. Provide flood relief for residents of Woodbridge Flats with additional flood storage created
with the removal of Pond Lily Dam.
4. Mitigate liability associated with failure of Pond Lily Dam via breaching or removal.
5. Maintain or enhance habitat in the project area.
6. Promote recreational use Pond Lily Nature Preserve.
The Pond Lily Dam is in poor shape and in danger of failing. A full or partial breach of the
concrete spillway would eliminate the liability associated with the structure. Though it is not
critical that the entire spillway be removed, a breach must be large enough to create a
sustainable, fish passable channel with enough hydraulic capacity such that the remaining
structure does not impound water or function as a dam under any flow condition.
The Pond Lily impoundment supports a wetland fringe, with a more significant vegetated scrub
shrub wetland community on the eastern edge. This is not an unusual type of wetland
community in Connecticut, as this type of habitat is abundant in many impounded river systems.

JULY 2011 ES-1
However, it is recognized that water surface elevations, river hydraulics, and the existing wetland
habitat will be affected by dam removal and creation of a thriving ecological community
following dam breach is a key project goal.
Work Completed to Date
Milone & MacBroom, Inc. was retained in late March 2011. To date, existing data has been
gathered and reviewed; field survey and base mapping has been completed; assessment of the
spillway and dam has been undertaken; ecological communities have been evaluated through
field studies; sediment probing and physical characterization has been completed; hydrologic and
hydraulic analysis has been performed; dam removal alternatives have been evaluated; and two
meetings have been held with the Advisory Committee. Sediment quality sampling and analysis
is pending review of and concurrence with the proposed sediment sampling plan by DEEP.
Alternatives Analysis
An alternatives analysis was undertaken for the Pond Lily Dam that evaluated a no action
alternative and four action alternatives as follows:
Alternative #1 – Full Spillway Removal

Alternative #2 – Partial Spillway Removal With Channel Alignment #1
Under Alternative #1, the full 191-foot spillway would be removed. Under Alternatives #2
through 4, only a portion of the spillway would be removed, sufficient to create a viable channel.
Within these alternatives, various channel alignments were evaluated.
Partial width, full depth spillway removal meets the identified project goals and objectives for
West River without the added cost of removing the entire stone and concrete structure. Partial
spillway removal would restore the river back to a more natural condition, improve upstream
water quality, enhance habitat, and allow passage of target fish species. Upon partial removal of
the spillway, there would be no need for long-term operations and maintenance of the structure,
thus creating a sustainable channel condition. For these reasons, partial spillway removal is
recommended.
Engineering & Ecological Considerations
Regardless of the final channel alignment and sediment management strategy agreed upon for
the restoration of West River, the partial width, full depth spillway removal proposed in
Alternatives #2, #3, and #4 will need to incorporate stabilization of the berm along Whalley
Avenue as well as the remaining spillway. The design must address filling and grading in a
manner to both support natural channel design as well as the ecological, aesthetic and
recreational value of the created channel but also to protect the remaining structures and adjacent
shopping center (Walgreens) parking lot. Hydraulic analysis indicates that a breach of

JULY 2011 ES-2
approximately 100 feet will achieve fish passage and channel restoration but will not impound
water under high flow conditions such that the remaining area would no longer act as a dam.
Other considerations are enumerated below.
Natural Channel Design – The goal of the human, wetland, and aquatic habitat at the Pond Lily
preserve post-dam removal is to improve upon and enhance the current ecological value of the
site. Natural habitat design must take into consideration channel width, slope, shape, and
physical features such as woody debris, substrate, bank construction materials, and hydraulic
features. Hydrologic analysis and hydraulic modeling indicate that the water depths under very
low summertime conditions following spillway breach will be quite shallow (on the order of four
or five inches), similar to downstream conditions. During typical springtime fish migration
conditions, water depth will be sufficient to pass fish (on the order of seven to eight inches).
Instream habitat features can also be incorporated into the design to cause localized backwater
and scour pools to provide greater depth and habitat diversity. The West River has a very flat
slope through the project area and consequently will have low velocities under a wide range of
flows. Even under extreme high flow events, velocities are predicted in the 3.0 to 5.0 feet per
second (fps) range. During the spring fish migration season, velocities of around 2.0 fps are
predicted.
Wetland Habitat – Under current conditions, the ground elevation in the existing marsh area is
slightly higher than the water surface elevation. Under a full depth breach condition, normal
water surface elevations are predicted to be five to six feet lower. As such, the existing scrub
shrub wetland will be significantly higher in elevation as compared to the adjacent water. There
will be opportunity to create new wetland on either side of the newly created channel; however,
the extent and type will depend upon the amount of excavation that is undertaken. Three
wetland types are possible: (1) palustrine emergent marsh, which would support emergent wet
meadow plant species; (2) palustrine scrub shrub wetland; and (3) palustrine forested wetland,
which would support a more woody vegetation. At higher elevations, an upland forested riparian
buffer is possible. The emergent marsh habitat would require the greatest degree of sediment
excavation, followed by scrub shrub habitat, forested wetland, and finally forested upland.
Removal of other Possible Fish Passage Barriers – During the field assessment and investigation
associated with the planning for the Pond Lily Dam removal, MMI staff noted three potential
barriers to fish passage in this section of the West River, in addition to the Pond Lily Dam.
Although the majority of the original spillway impounding Konold’s Pond upstream of Pond
Lily has been removed, the base of the concrete spillway remains in place, creating a potential
fish passage barrier during low flow periods. In addition, two boulder weir structures were
observed across the channel at 300 feet and 500 feet downstream of the Pond Lily Dam, which
could be barriers to fish passage during low flow periods. Although detailed design of removal
of these structures is not included in the current scope of work, these are addressed in a
conceptual level, with a recommendation that these barriers be removed to allow complete
restoration of fish passage to this section of the West River.
Recreational Opportunities – Future raised boardwalk trails and educational features are possible
in the post-removal conditions at Pond Lily, with pedestrian access from either or both the

JULY 2011 ES-3
eastern bank off South Genesee Street and/or from the west via constructed pedestrian bridge.
These project elements will be refined with important input from the New Haven Land Trust as
the project proceeds.
Preliminary Recommendations
Based on the analysis conducted to date, the following actions are recommended:
1. Remove approximately half (±100 feet) of the masonry spillway at Pond Lily Dam. This,
along with channel restoration, will enable fish passage, provide structural stability along the
adjacent banks, and will not create a condition where the remaining structure will impound
water under high flows.
2. Partially excavate sediment within the impoundment to create a new channel. The
Alternative #4 alignment will result in the most natural channel design and minimize
sediment excavation. This alignment is also believed to be the historic channel alignment
prior to dam construction. A construction access haul road could be partially left in place to
maintain the west bank of the newly formed channel, and to shelter both Whalley Avenue
and the adjacent commercial plaza.
3. Incorporate natural habitat features in the newly created channel, such as placement of
woody debris, riffles, vegetated bars, and/or small boulder clusters.
4. Grade the sediment within the impoundment on either side of the newly constructed channel
to create constructed wetland habitat and vegetated riparian upland. The extent of excavation
will likely be influenced by the quality of the underlying sediment, which has yet to be
determined. Another consideration will be the tolerance for physical disturbance along the
eastern portion of the project site in the area of existing scrub shrub wetland. A decision to
allow that area to naturally succeed to forested area or maintain a fringe of wetland can be
made as the design proceeds.
5. Protect the existing berm along Whalley Avenue as well as the bank that is located directly
across from the spillway near the Walgreens parking lot through placement of fill, ideally
using excavated sediment that is relocated from the impoundment. Maintain the western
portion of the spillway as a core wall, to be cut off at grade to provide additional stability and
protection.
These preliminary recommendations will be refined once sediment testing data is available.

JULY 2011 ES-4
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Project Background
Pond Lily Dam impounds the West River. The dam is physically located in the City of
New Haven; the impoundment extends into the Town of Woodbridge near the Merrit
Parkway overpass. The dam and pond are owned by the New Haven Land Trust, which
operates and maintains the impoundment as the Pond Lily Preserve.
The Pond Lily Dam was constructed in the late 1700s as a source of mechanical power
for a grist mill. The grist mill was succeeded by a carriage factory (in use during the
Civil War) and later converted to a paper factory. The site was still used by industry up
to the 1970s. In the 1990s, the factory was demolished and the present retail center
located downstream of the dam was constructed, with land set aside for a 14-acre open
space parcel. The dam consists of an earthen berm and a 191-foot long, six-foot high
spillway over which water is conveyed to the downstream reaches of West River.
The Town of Woodbridge has retained Milone & MacBroom, Inc. (MMI) to analyze
design alternatives and evaluate the ecological impacts and benefits associated with full
or partial removal of the Pond Lily Dam. The dam is physically located within the City
of New Haven. The impoundment and upstream watershed extends north into the Town
of Woodbridge. Modification of this structure is being evaluated for the purpose of river
restoration and improved fish passage, while maintaining the sustainable ecological
function of the large wetland area associated with the impoundment. Figure 1-1 is a
location plan of the project area.
1.2 Project Goals and Objectives
The following goals and objectives have been identified for the removal of Pond Lily
Dam and restoration of the West River in the area of the Pond Lily impoundment. These
have been formulated in conjunction with local, state, and federal project partners and
serve as a benchmark measure for the effectiveness of each of the alternatives evaluated
at this site. They are as follows:
1. Restore the river habitat to a more natural environment.

2. Enable passage of target fish species, including alewife, blueback herring, and American eel.
3. Provide flood relief for residents of Woodbridge Flats with additional flood storage
created with the removal of Pond Lily Dam.
4. Mitigate liability associated with failure of Pond Lily Dam via breaching or removal.
5. Maintain or enhance habitat in the project area.
6. Promote recreational use Pond Lily Nature Preserve.

JULY 2011 1-1
of Regal Motel Crossing
Pond Lily Dam Spillway

Pond Lily Impoundment Downstream
SOURCE:
Project Location 2007-2009 Aerial Photograph from Microsoft
MXD:
Virtual Earth via ESRI subscription service

Pond Lily Dam Alternatives Analysis
Map By: SJB
99 Realty Drive
MMI#: 1899-08
Cheshire, Connecticut 06410

Date: 07/28/2011
Figure 1-1
(203) 271-1773 Fax (203) 272-9733

Scale: 1 inch = 200 feet
P:\Fig1-1 Location.MXD
New Haven, Connecticut www.miloneandmacbroom.com

1.3 Previous Studies
A number of studies have been previously conducted of the West River and its
impoundments to assess hydrodynamics, and habitat quality (fish passage) and flood
mitigation. More specifically, the Pond Lily Dam has been the subject of many reports
related to flooding upstream of the impoundment around the Woodbridge Flats as well as
restoration of fish passage in the West River. A summary of critical study findings and
recommendations included below in chronological order. A complete list of resources is
included in Appendix A.
West River Flood Control Study (Flaherty Giavara Associates for the City of New Haven,
January, 1978) – This engineering report includes a hydraulic analysis as well as
improvement studies for the West River downstream of the Pond Lily Dam.
Improving Fish Passage in the West River: Alewife and Blueback Herring Passage at the
Pond Lily Dam (Apse, C., Burchsted, D., Robbins, C., Triplett, T., for Advanced Applied
Hydrology course at Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies, May, 1999) –
This detailed fish passage study includes an overview of fish passage on the West River,
the target fish species for fish passage restoration, a history and existing conditions of the
Pond Lily Dam, and outlines a two phase fish passage restoration project evaluating
alternatives for downstream channel restoration and fish passage over Pond Lily Dam.
This report provided the background analysis for the installation of the current fish ladder
at the dam.
Pond Lily Dam Inspection Report (Milone & MacBroom, Inc., May, 2000) – This dam
inspection report documents the condition and potential hazards associated with Pond
Lily Dam in 2000, which provides insight into the dam stability and any changes in the
condition since 2000.
West River: Restoration Plan for the Reach between Blake Street and Whalley Avenue.
(Casado, C., Gilbert, H., Karres, N., for River Processes Course at Yale School of
Forestry and Environmental Studies, December, 2008) – This planning document
provides a valuable description of the West River watershed including hydrology and
channel design parameters, which will help inform the design of a restored West River
channel surrounding the Pond Lily Dam.
Flood Study of Woodbridge Flats (Cardinal Engineering Associates, Inc., December,

2009) – This engineering report includes a hydraulic analysis as well as alternative
analysis for flood mitigation for the West River from Konold’s Pond in Woodbridge to
the Pond Lily Dam in New Haven. The study shows that removal or improvement of
structures downstream of the Merritt Avenue Bridge would not decrease flooding in the
Woodbridge Flats area. Instead, this report recommends removal or lowering of the Pond
Lily Dam to restore fish passage and decrease upstream flooding during high flow events
in this section of the West River.

JULY 2011 1-3
Pond Lily Dam Evaluation and Environmental Assessment (Adera, S., Allan, N., Baldwin,
J., Piana, M., for River Processes Course at Yale School of Forestry and Environmental
Studies, December, 2009) – This assessment report provides a detailed description,
including sediment classification, of existing conditions at the Pond Lily impoundment,
Pond Lily Dam, and the channel downstream of the dam, as well as an evaluation of the
ramifications of a no action alternative, a dam repair alternative, and a dam removal
alternative on sediment, flooding, wetlands, fish passage, recreation, and dam safety.
Flood Insurance Study, City of New Haven, CT, New Haven County – This report
indicates the methods and flows used to determine the location and elevation of the 100-
year floodplain on the West River.
1.4 Current Phase Work Scope
Milone & MacBroom, Inc. (MMI) has been retained by the Town of Woodbridge to plan and
design the removal of Pond Lily Dam. The following specific work items are being
undertaken as part of this phase of work.
Existing Data Collection and Review

On-Site Assessment of the Spillway and Dam
On-Site Assessment of Ecological Communities
Sediment Probing and Sampling
Field Survey and Base Mapping
Hydrologic and Hydraulic Assessment
Evaluation of Dam Removal Alternatives
Preliminary Engineering Design
Public Outreach and Stakeholder Meetings
Future efforts will undertake regulatory permitting, final design, and construction phases of
the project.

JULY 2011 1-4
2.0 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT
2.1 The West River – An Overview
The West River watershed is 34.6 square miles in area covering land in the towns of
Prospect, Bethany, Hamden, and Woodbridge and the City of New Haven, Connecticut. The
headwaters of the West River are located in Bethany just south of the border with Prospect.
The river flows south for approximately 18 miles from its headwaters to end at the
confluence with Long Island Sound via West Haven Harbor. The West River watershed is a
sub-regional watershed included in the South Central Western Complex along with the Mill
River, a slightly smaller watershed with similar land use patterns that begins in the Town of
Bethany and ends at the confluence with Long Island Sound in New Haven harbor, just to
the east of the mouth of the West River. Figure 2-1 illustrates the boundary of the West
River watershed as well as the boundaries of towns within and surrounding the watershed.
Table 2-1 below shows the land use in the West River watershed in 2006, along with
change in land use since 1985, according to data collected by the University of Connecticut
Center for Land Use Education and Research. Similar with development and growth
patterns throughout the 20th and 21st centuries in nearby watersheds in Connecticut,
developed land in the watershed has increased by 182 acres (5.1%) between 1985 and
2006, indicating a likely associated increase in anthropogenic impacts on watershed lands
and surface water bodies, including West River.
TABLE 2-1
Land Use in the West River Watershed
Percent of Percent Change

Land Use Type Acres
Total since 1985
Developed 3763 32.2% 5.1%
Turf & Grass 927 7.9% 10.8%
Other Grasses 94 0.8% -32.1%
Agricultural Field 166 1.4% -12.1%
Deciduous Forest 5369 45.9% -3.5%
Coniferous Forest 389 3.3% 1.6%
Water 429 3.7% -3.8%
Non-Forested Wetland 54 0.5% 0.4%
Forested Wetland 197 1.7% -8.1%
Tidal Wetland 110 0.9% -4.8%
Barren 90 0.8% 44.8%
Utility (Forest) 102 0.9% -3.0%
As would be expected based on the high percentage of developed and managed land in the
West River watershed, flow in the West River is managed to a great extent and the
floodplain and channel itself are impacted by many impoundments and bridges for the
length of the river. The river is a free-flowing channel at its headwaters for the first mile
until it reaches Lake Bethany, the first of three dammed water supply reservoirs managed
by the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority (SCCRWA).

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Naugatuck Prospect
Cheshire
Wallingford
Beacon Falls
Bethany
Hamden
Seymour
North Haven
Pond Lily Dam Contributing Drainage Basin

(Drainage Area = 16.6 Square Miles)
Woodbridge
Pond Lily Dam
Ansonia
Derby
West River Watershed Boundary New Haven

Orange East Haven

West Haven
West Haven
Branford
East Haven
SOURCE: Location:
Figure 2-1: West River Watershed and
1997 USGS Topographic Map mosaic from ESRI
New Haven, CT
Watershed Boundaries from National Hydrology Dataset Pond Lily Dam Contributing Drainage Basin
Map By: SJB
MMI#: 1899-08
Pond Lily Dam Alternatives Analysis MXD: P:\Fig 2-1 Watershed.mxd
99 Realty Drive Cheshire, CT 06410
Date: July 28, 2011 (203) 271-1773 Fax: (203) 272-9733
Scale: 1 inch = 7,000 feet www.miloneandmacbroom.com
Lake Bethany is followed by Lake Watrous and Lake Dawson. South of the Lake Dawson
dam, the West River forms the western boundary of West Rock Ridge State Park for
approximately a mile before flowing into Konolds Pond, a popular fishing pond for local
residents. Konold’s pond was impounded by a dam that was largely removed, leaving only
a spillway that remains as a fish passage barrier during low flow periods in the river. Figure
2-2 illustrates the location of these impoundments along the length of the West River.
Approximately one-half mile south of Konold’s Pond, the West River enters the
impoundment formed by the Pond Lily Dam. Figure 2-1 illustrates the boundary of the
contributing drainage area above this dam. Between Konold’s Pond and the Pond Lily Dam
the river channel is continuously constrained by various flood control structures maintained
by neighboring private land owners. The channel passes under five bridges before reaching
the Pond Lily impoundment: the Bradley Street Bridge, the Merritt Avenue Bridge, the
Route 15 Bridge, the Pond Lily Avenue Bridge, and the Regal Motel Bridge. Figure 2-3
illustrates the location of the bridges between Konold’s Pond and the Pond Lily Dam.
The reach of the West River downstream of the Pond lily dam for approximately 600 feet is
described in detail in Section 2.6 of this report as it relates to fish passage and natural river
design. The remainder of this overview of the West River was obtained from the Pond Lily
Dam Evaluation and Environmental Assessment completed as a course requirement for the
River Processes course at the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies (detailed
reference information included in Appendix A).
Downstream of Pond Lily Dam, the channel passes beneath the East Ramsdell Street
Bridge and then flows approximately 3,000 feet parallel to Whalley Avenue before bending
to the north under the Valley Street Bridge and forming the border of West Rock Ridge
State Park for approximately 3,000 feet. After flowing under the Blakely Street Bridge the
channel is confined by a concrete canal for approximately 800 feet. Halfway down the
canal Wintergreen Brook, which drains the portion of the West River watershed to the east
of the West Rock ridge, converges with the main channel. At the end of the canal the river
flows under the Whalley Street Bridge and returns to more natural river channel conditions.
According to the Pond Lily Dam Evaluation and Environmental Assessment, the West
River flows through the City of New Haven as a natural channel intermittently confined by
local development and flood control efforts. Immediately south of the West River Park the
river flows under the Boston Post Road Bridge (also referred to as the Orange Street
Bridge) where tide gates are located to manage tidal flooding and salt water intrusion. An
effort is currently underway to re-establish tidal flow to this southern section of the West
River to improve water quality, upstream vegetation, fish passage, and instream habitat.
South of the tide gates, the river meanders at low velocities for approximately one mile
before flowing beneath Interstate 95 and entering New Haven Harbor at Kimberly Avenue.

JULY 2011 2-3
Lake Bethany
Lake Watrous
(SCCRWA Reservoir)
Lake Dawson
(SCCRWA Reservoir)
Konold's Pond
Pond Lily Dam

(Project Location)
West River Watershed Boundary

SOURCE: Location:
1997 USGS Topographic Map mosaic via ESRI
Drainage Basin and Mainstem from National Hydrology Dataset
Figure 2-2: West River Reservoirs and Impoundments New Haven, CT
Map By: SJB

MMI#: 1899-08
Pond Lily Dam Alternatives Analysis MXD: P:\Fig 2-2 West River.mxd
Date: July 28, 2011 (203) 271-1773 Fax: (203) 272-9733
Scale: 1 inch = 7,000 feet www.miloneandmacbroom.com
Bradley Street Bridge
Merritt Avenue Bridge
Route 15 Bridge
Regal Motel Bridge
Pond Lily Dam
East Ramsdell Street Bridge
Valley Street Bridge
Blake Street Bridge
SOURCE: LOCATION:
Street base map from Microsoft Virtual Earth via ESRI Figure 2-3: West River Bridges
subscription service Between Konolds Pond and Blake Street New Haven, CT
Map By: SJB
MMI#: 1899-08
Pond Lily Dam Alternatives Analysis MXD: P:\Fig 2-3.mxd
Date: July 28 2011 (203) 271-1773 Fax: (203) 272-9733
Scale:1 in = 1,500 ft www.miloneandmacbroom.com
2.2 Pond Lily Dam
The Pond Lily Dam extends

approximately 430 feet from the east
side of Whalley Avenue (State Route
69) to the far side of the pond
abutting the New Haven Land Trust
property accessed via Genesse Street.
Approximately 250 feet of the dam is
an earthen berm that is topped with a
concrete wall for 190 feet and a stone
wall for 60 feet before reaching the
spillway. The spillway, at an
elevation approximately two feet
lower than the earthen berm, is
approximately 192 feet long and six
feet high.
A pre-fabricated fish ladder is located in the western end of the spillway (right bank
looking downstream. The fishway was designed and installed in the early 2000s to aid
fish passage of anadromous and resident fish species including alewife and blueback
herring. The report summarizing these fish passage improvements, entitled Improving
Fish Passage in the West River: Alewife and Blueback Herring Passage at the Pond Lily
Dam by the Yale School of Forestry includes many details of the dam construction as a
portion of the dam was exposed and removed during the ladder installation. The
following is an excerpt from this report documenting the condition of the dam in 1999:
The bottom 3’2” of the spillway is stone masonry. The remaining top portion is
composed of 5” thick concrete wall and rock fill. The crest of the spillway slopes
downward at a slope of 1:5.8 from the downstream face into Pond Lily. Overall the
spillway is in fair condition, with some missing stones and broken pieces in the upper
concrete wall.
A dam assessment was also included in the field inspection summarized in the Pond Lily
Dam Evaluation and Environmental Assessment completed ten years later, in 2009. This
report also documents many structural weaknesses of the spillway, stating:
It appears that maintenance on Pond Lily Dam has not been conducted since the
textile dying factory facility was discontinued in the 1970s. As a result, many of the
rocks in the spillway have been displaced, causing multiple holes to form along the
length of the dam.
Subsequently, Pond Lily Dam was inspected on March 6, 2011 by MMI staff following
two to three inches of rain on top of thick snow cover, resulting in statewide peak flows
with two- to 10-year average return frequencies. The site visit was timed to coincide with

JULY 2011 2-6
peak flow rates along the West River. High water marks were measured and
photographed in order to plot the flood profile. The following observations were noted:
1. The tailwater at the west end of the Pond Lily Dam was submerging the crest and
almost all of the fish ladder. The water level measured at 2.2 feet below the right
concrete abutment wall.
2. The pool headwater was 2.0 feet below the top of the right concrete abutment wall,
near a four-inch drain pipe.
3. The east end of the spillway was flowing at a depth of about 1.25 feet, but tailwater
was lower, reflecting a lateral gradient in the tailrace.
4. Water levels in the channel behind the Walgreens pharmacy were 6.0 feet below the
upstream top corner of the gabion wall (marked with an orange paint spot). The
channel had full width steady flow at about four feet per second. Water levels at the
East Ramsdell Street box culverts were 2.4 feet below the top of the culvert opening.
5. The pool level at the midpoint of the dam was 1.5 feet below the top of a concrete
pad at the former outlet works (marked with an orange paint spot).
6. Moderate seepage with fine sand was discharging through the low concrete block
retaining wall at the bank's drive-through lane, indicating that there is internal
"piping" and erosion of core material. This should be monitored, as it is a serious
fault. The adjacent earth dam embankment has a 12-inch by 12-inch sinkhole (dry)
and irregular crown due to internal erosion and settlement.
7. Pond levels were 1.5 to 2.5 feet below the crest of the narrow earth dike along
Route 69. Clear water seepage was present along the toe of dike.
8. River water was barely flowing below the Regal Motel Bridge (green I-beams)
without surcharge and was 0.4 feet below the flange of the upstream beam at the
bridge midpoint. Water was 4.1 feet below the low roadway curb, which is 0.9 feet
high.
9. Rapid flow water levels at the downstream side of the Pond Lily Avenue twin span
bridge was one foot below the beam bottom and 7.7 feet below the top of the 2.7
foot high parapet, at an orange paint spot. The upstream side of the bridge had
about a one-foot head loss at the pier, and shallow water was over the Route 15
eastbound entrance ramp (bridge #06024).
10. Water upstream of Pond Lily Avenue and under the Route 15 elevated viaduct was
fairly tranquil, reflecting a backwater condition. Water under Route 15 reached half
way (horizontal) between the pier and Route 69 shoulder to the guy wire anchor
(orange paint spot).

JULY 2011 2-7
11. At the Merritt Avenue Bridge, tailwater was 1.6 feet below the top of curb (at orange
paint spot) and 0.7 feet below the top of the upstream curb. Water was splashing
over the curb; bridge was flowing full under pressure. A Woodbridge police officer
reported water levels were at their peak for the day. A slight road sag is located just
east of the bridge. The upstream channel was full and just over the banks.
12. The river was generally over its banks and onto the floodplain upstream of Merritt
Avenue. Water was in contact with the foundations of two houses at the west end
of Manila Avenue.
13. Water levels at Bradley Road were above the east end of the bridge deck, and the
road was closed. The waterway was flowing full under low pressure. No detour
routes were posted, and several drivers asked for help going to pick up children.
14. Many residential and commercial buildings along Litchfield Turnpike (Route 69)
between Merritt Avenue and Bradley Street were in the water including #1663,
#1669, #1673, #1679, #1681, #1707, and #1711. Additional commercial and
industrial buildings along Bradley and South Bradley Roads were flooded such as
Abel's Catering and the Children's Garden.
The following findings were made based on this dam inspection:
1. Pond Lily Dam is in poor condition and unsafe due to spillway masonry "pop outs"
of rock material and significant seepage through the earth embankment. The latter
is causing internal piping, settlement, and a sinkhole. The condition of the dam
warrants inspection during each major rainfall.
2. Any significant increase in seepage or soil "piping" warrants emergency repairs or

emergency breaching.
3. If the dam is not formally repaired or removed in 2011 before winter, serious
consideration should be given to partially breaching the dam and draining the
impoundment.
4. The Merritt Avenue Bridge is scheduled for replacement. Because of its observed
pressure flow and upstream flooding, the new structure should be designed to have
a thin cross section or even be a "through girder" type of bridge to minimize beams
that extend into the waterway.
5. There are only two vehicle accessways across the river to the Woodbridge
Commerce Park and Manila Avenue-Miles Avenue-Merritt Avenue neighborhoods,
and both are subject to flood closure.

JULY 2011 2-8
6. During the March 2011 flood, the Bradley Road Bridge was signed as being closed
and flooded, and only the Merritt Avenue Bridge was open. There were no detour
signs to Merritt Avenue and no signage on how to cut across from Manila Avenue
to South Bradley Road. An improved signage system would be beneficial.
The following recommendations are offered:
1. Pond Lily Dam is in poor condition and has at least three potential failure modes
that could impact downstream areas. They are, in order of likelihood: a dike
breach along Whalley Avenue due to overtopping or seepage; a main embankment
breach near the bank drive-through lane due to seepage; or a structural erosion
failure of the spillway.
2. The dam should be monitored during "flood warnings" and when discharges at the
nearby Mill River gauge in Hamden exceed 1,800 cfs (USGS Real Time Water
Data for USGS 01196620 Mill R Near Hamden, Connecticut).
3. An alert should be initiated if:
The rate of seepage increases or is highly turbid (brown water)

If water levels reach within one foot of the top of dike along Whalley Avenue
If water levels reach within 0.5 feet of the top of the concrete wall between the
pond and bank building
If tailwater levels reach the top of the fish ladder frame
4. In the event of a dam safety alert, contact:
City of New Haven: 911

City of New Haven – City Engineers office: 203-787-6417
CT Department of Environmental Protection – Dam Safety Unit: 860-424-3333,
860-424-3706
New Haven Land Trust: 203-562-6655
5. In the event of a dam safety alert:
Consider covering seepage areas with a sand and gravel filter and weight
Consider using sand bags or fill to raise the dam or dike
Consider evacuating the areas between the dam, Whalley Avenue, and East
Ramsdell Street, including the bank and retail shopping center
Consider closing the northbound lanes of Whalley Avenue to reduce traffic
vibration and hazards
Pond Lily Dam was inspected by MMI staff again on May 11, 2011 at a slightly lower
water elevation. The structural concerns regarding the earthen berm and spillway were
confirmed, as additional displaced stones were observed at the base of the spillway.

JULY 2011 2-9
2.3 Preliminary Wetland Assessment
On June 1, 2011 Matthew Sanford, a professional wetland scientist with Milone &
MacBroom, Inc., completed an ecological evaluation of the wetlands and uplands
associated with the Pond Lily impoundment. Prior to conducting the field assessment, all
pertinent maps, reports, and surveys were reviewed as an aid in evaluation of the site.
The ecological evaluation included walking the various wetland and upland habitats
within and surrounding the pond. Vegetation surveys were completed by visual
encounter method, which includes the identification of plants by leaves, bark, twigs, fruit,
and flowers. Wildlife data was collected by visual encounter and auditory survey
methods which includes the identification of wildlife by tracks, feces, fur deposits,
feathers, burrows, nests, and habitats.
The most current USDA-NRCS soil survey mapping was gathered from the NRCS web
soil survey (http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov). A copy of the web soil survey mapping
is included as Appendix B. The soil units mapped for the project site include Branford,
Udorthents, Rippowam, and water. The upland soils are derived from glaciofluvial
deposits. They consist of stratified sand and gravel. The parent material of these soils is
acidic red sandstone, shale, and conglomerate.
The Branford series consists of very deep, well drained soils formed in loamy over
sandy and gravelly outwash. They are nearly level to strongly sloping soils on outwash
plains and terraces. Slope ranges from 0 to 15 percent. Saturated hydraulic conductivity
is moderately high or high in the solum and high or very high in the substratum. Much of
the acreage is used for cultivated crops, hay and pasture. Common crops are silage corn,
vegetables, tobacco, and nursery stock. Some areas are wooded or used for community
development. Common trees are white, black and red oak, hickory, gray birch, white
pine, hemlock and white ash.
The soil mapping unit Udorthents and/or Urban Land is used to describe soils that
have been substantially disturbed including areas that have been excavated or filled by at
least two feet.
The wetland soils are derived from glaciolacustrine deposits. They consist of stratified
sand and gravel. The parent material of these soils is acidic red sandstone, shale, and
conglomerate.
The Rippowam series consists of very deep, poorly drained loamy soils formed in
alluvial sediments. They are nearly level soils on flood plains subject to frequent
flooding. Slope ranges from 0 to 3 percent. Saturated hydraulic conductivity ranges from
moderately high or high in the loamy upper part and high or very high in the underlying
sandy materials. Most areas are in brushy woodland. Common trees are red maple,
willow, and alder.

JULY 2011 2-10
The wetland and watercourse resources present within the project site are described herein
using the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service's wetland classification system described in
Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States (Cowardin, et al.,
1979). Pond Lily impoundment and its associated wetlands within the project limits belong
to the palustrine ecological unit. In addition to wetland cover types, the upland cover types
will be described. The following cover types are present within the project site:
→ Palustrine Open Water (POW)

→ Palustrine Emergent Marsh (PEM)
→ Palustrine Scrub Shrub (PSS)
→ Palustrine Forested (PFO)
→ Upland Shrub/Meadow (UPS/M)
→ Upland Forested (UPLFO)
The vegetation cover types are represented on Figure 2-4.
Palustrine Open Water

The POW cover type includes those areas that
have open water present and that support
submerged and/or floating aquatic vegetation.
The open water areas support spatterdock lily,
white water lily, duckweed, and Eurasian water
milfoil. Table 2-2 provides a list of plant species
observed within the POW.
Open Water Areas U/S of Dam
TABLE 2-2
Palustrine Open Water
Scientific Name Common Name

Herbaceous
Nuphar lutea Yellow spatterdock lily
Nymphaea alba White water lily
Lemna minor Duckweed
Myriophyllum spicatum Eurasian watermilfoil*
Note: * = Nonnative Invasive Plant Species

JULY 2011 2-11
Legend
Original Pool Edge
Existing Vegetation Cover Types
Palustrine Emergent Marsh (PEM)
Palustrine Forested (PFO)
Palustrine Scrub Shrub (PSS)
Upland Forested (UPLFO)
Upland Shrub/Meadow (UPS/M)
S
a
n
d Original Pool Edge
SOURCE: Location:
2007-2009 Aerial Base from Microsoft Virtual Earth via ESRI
subscription service
Figure 2-4: Wetland Vegetative Cover New Haven, CT
Vegetation Cover Types from CT DEEP
Map By: SG
MMI#: 1899-08
Pond Lily Dam Alternatives Analysis MXD: P:\Fig2-4 Vegetation.mxd
Date: July 28, 2011 (203) 271-1773 Fax: (203) 272-9733
Scale: 1 inch = 100 feet www.miloneandmacbroom.com
Palustrine Emergent Marsh
The PEM includes those areas that
support emergent and wet meadow plant
species. Some shrubs may be intermixed
amongst this vegetation type. Typically
this cover type is found at water depths
ranging from one inch to two feet. Pond
lily has several large patches of PEM.
Table 2-3 provides a list of plant species
observed within the PEM.
PEM in foreground with PSS in background
TABLE 2-3
Palustrine Emergent Marsh

Shrubs
Cornus amomum Silky dogwood
Cephalanthus occidentalis Buttonbush
Alnus rugosa Speckled alder
Herbaceous
Justicia americana Water willow
Typha latifolia Broad leaved cattail
Iris pseudacorus Yellow flag iris*
Scirpus pungens Woolgrass
Scirpus validus Soft stem bulrush
Carex stricta Tussock sedge
Lythrum salicaria Purple loosestrife*
Sagittaria latifolia Duck potato
Sparganium americanum American burreed
Palustrine Scrub Shrub

The PSS includes those areas that support a
predominately thick shrubby stratum with
trees under 20 feet in height. Most of these
cover types have hummocky topography
with the high hummocks being vegetated
with shrubs and herbaceous material and the
pits a combination muck and/or standing
water. There are several large swaths of PSS
that border the PEM's within the
impoundment. Table 2-4 provides a list of
plant species observed within the PSS.
PSS along west shoreline of Pond Lily

JULY 2011 2-13
TABLE 2-4
Palustrine Scrub Shrub

Trees
Acer rubrum Red Maple
Quercus palustris Pin Oak
Ulmus americana American elm
Ulmus fulva Slippery elm
Robinia pseudoacacia Black locust
Shrubs
Salix discolor Pussy willow
Cephalanthus occidentalis Buttonbush
Vaccinium cormybosum Highbush blueberry
Salix sericea Silky willow
Ilex verticillata Winterberry
Clethra alnifolia Sweet pepperbsuh
Alnus rugosa Speckled alder
Herbaceous
Symplocarpus foetidus Skunk cabbage
Thelypteris palustris Marsh fern
Impatiens capensis Jewelweed
Juncus effusus Soft rush
Onoclea sensibilis Sensitive fern
Toxicodendron radicans Poison ivy
Fallopia japonica Japanese knotweed*
Palustrine Forested
The PFO includes those areas that
support woody vegetation that is greater
than 20 feet in height and an over story
canopy with at least 30 percent coverage.
PFO are the most common cover type
found within Connecticut. Table 2-5
provides a list of plant species observed
within the PFO.
PFO located along eastern portion of Pond Lily

JULY 2011 2-14
TABLE 2-5
Palustrine Forested

Trees
Robinia pseudoacacia Black Locust
Platanus occidentalis Sycamore
Fraxinus pennslyvanica Green ash
Ulmus americana American elm
Shrubs
Lonicera americana American honeysuckle
Viburnum dentatum Northern arrowwood
Ilex verticillata Winterberry
Clethra alnifolia Sweet pepperbush
Rosa multiflora Multiflora rose*
Berberis thunbergii Japanese barberry*
Herbaceous
Symplocarpus foetidus Skunk cabbage
Juncus tenuis Path rush
Viola sp Violets
Carex crinita Fringed sedge
Arisaema triphyllum Jack in the pulpit
Trillium erectum Trillium
Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia creeper
Grasses
Upland Forested
Upland forested areas are found east of
Pond Lily. The forested cover type is
classified as a mixed hardwood forest.
Table 2-6 provides a list of plant
species observed within the UPLFO.
Upland forested area

JULY 2011 2-15
TABLE 2-6
Upland Forested

Trees
Robinia pseudoacacia Black Locust*
Platanus occidentalis Sycamore
Acer saccharum Sugar maple
Prunus serotina Black cherry
Quercus rubra Red oak
Quercus velutina Black oak
Quercus alba White oak
Betula populifolia Grey birch
Carya ovata Shagbark hickory
Ailanthus altissima Tree of heaven*
Carpinus caroliniana American hornbeam
Shrubs
Lonicera morrowii Morrow's honeysuckle
Hamemalis virginia Common witch hazel
Berberis thunbergii Japanese barberry*
Ligustrum vulgare European privet*
Herbaceous
Thelypteris noveboracensis New York fern
Juncus tenuis Path rush
Rubus allegheniensis Common blackberry
Vines
Celastrus orbiculatum Oriental Bittersweet*
Vipes sp. Grape
Smilax sp catbrier
Shrub/Meadow
This cover type consists of those areas that are
maintained as meadow, lawn, and have
sporadic shrub clusters. This cover type
primarily occurs along the earthen berm
located along Whaley Avenue. Dense vines
cover many of the trees and are choking the
trees. Also a patch of common reed
(Phragmites australis) is growing on the
berm. Table 2-7 provides a list of plant
species observed within the US/M.
Earthen berm located along Whaley Ave.

JULY 2011 2-16
TABLE 2-7
Upland Shrub/Meadow

Trees
Robinia pseudoacacia Black Locust*
Acer saccharum Sugar maple
Ailanthus altissima Tree of heaven*
Acer platanoides Norway maple
Shrubs
Lonicera morrowii Morrow's honeysuckle
Cornus racemosa Grey stemmed dogwood
Herbaceous
Phragmites australis Common reed
Fallopia japonica Japanese knotweed*
Vines
Celastrus orbiculatum Oriental Bittersweet*
Vipes sp. Grape
Smilax sp catbrier
Wetlands and watercourses possess the capacity to perform a variety of ecological and
societal functions. These vary depending on the specific characteristics of the wetland
and/or watercourse being evaluated. The wetlands and watercourses within the project
limits were evaluated in order to identify the functions that they provide. Pond Lily and
its associated wetlands provide a variety of functions including:
Floodwater Storage
Export of Detritus
Nutrient and Toxicant Removal
Wildlife Habitat
Shoreline Stabilization
Fish Habitat
Table 2-8 provides a summary of the functions and values of the watercourses and
wetlands on site.

JULY 2011 2-17
TABLE 2-8
Pond Lily and Associated Wetlands Functions and Values Assessment
Comments
Functions and Values
No – no ground water discharges (seeps)

Groundwater Recharge / Discharge
observed.
Yes – Pond Lily and associated wetlands

Floodflow Alteration (Storage &
located within FEMA-designated 100-
Desynchronization)
year flood zone.
Yes – brook supports warm-water fish
Fish & Shellfish Habitat
species and anadromous species.
Yes – sediment deposition (alluvial
Sediment / Toxicant Retention
deposits) occurs behind dam.
Yes – nutrient removal capabilities are
Nutrient Removal / Retention /
present within emergent and scrub shrub
Transformation
wetland areas - high stem density present.
Yes – Pond Lily exports allochthonous
Production Export (Nutrient)
materials to downstream habitats.
Sediment / Shoreline Stabilization Yes – Pond Lilies banks are stable.
Yes – narrow riparian zone along

impoundment but diversity of wetland
Wildlife Habitat
communities provide good wildlife
habitat.
Yes – Lily Pond is owned and maintained
by the New Haven Land Trust so area is
Recreation (Consumptive & Non-
open to public. There are no boat access
Consumptive)
points. People observed fishing from
bridges.
Educational Scientific Value No
Uniqueness / Heritage No
Visual Quality / Aesthetics No
ES Endangered Species No
The principal functions/values of this system within this watershed are flood flow
alteration, shoreline stabilization, wildlife habitat, nutrient and toxicant removal, fishery
habitat, and production export.

JULY 2011 2-18
2.4 Wildlife Assessment and Fishery Resources
As part of the ecological evaluation, MMI collected wildlife data by visual encounter and
auditory survey methods, which includes the identification of wildlife by tracks, feces,
fur, feathers, pellets, rubbings, burrows, nests, and habitats. The major categories of
wildlife identified are described below. Observed species are listed in Table 2-9.
Mammals – The site supports typical suburban species common to the river corridor such
as white tailed deer, eastern chipmunk, common raccoon, Virginia opossum, gray
squirrel, striped skunk, ground hog and a variety of other small rodents. MMI observed
deer and deer tracks plus fur, scat, trails, and rubbings. Chipmunks and gray squirrels
were observed in the forested areas. Raccoon tracks were noted along the muddy areas
found within the forested wetland. Minor excavations typical of skunks were noted.
Tiny burrows typical of mice, voles, and moles were also observed.
Birds – The site supports typical suburban species common to the corridor such as
Canada goose, mallard, American robin, common crow, woodpeckers (downy, red-
bellied, and yellow-shafted flicker), European starling, common grackle, red winged
blackbird, catbird, house sparrow, Northern cardinal, black-capped chickadee, tufted
titmouse, white-breasted nuthatch, song sparrow, American goldfinch, and blue jay.
Reptiles and Amphibians – The site supports typical suburban species common to the
corridor such as painted turtle, snapping turtle, Eastern garter snake, green frog,
American bullfrog, American toad, and red-backed salamander. Standing water is
present in many locations within the scrub shrub wetlands, however given the
shallowness of the standing water and the urbanized setting no obligate vernal pool
species were observed within the wetlands on site.
Fishery Resources – The West River and Pond Lily supports a variety of fish species
including pumpkinseed, bluegill, largemouth bass, brown bullhead, white sucker,
American eel, blueback herring, and American shad.
TABLE 2-9
Wildlife Inventory
Mammals
Didelphis virginiana Opossum
Marmota monax Ground hog
Mephitis mepitis Striped skunk
Odocoileus virginianus White-tailed deer
Procyon lotor Raccoon
Sciurus carolinensis Gray squirrel
Tamias striatus Eastern chipmunk
Miscellaneous rodents

JULY 2011 2-19
TABLE 2-9 (Cont.)
Wildlife Inventory
Birds
Agelaius phoeniceus Red winged blackbird
Anas platyrhynchos Mallard
Archilochus colubris Ruby-throated hummingbird
Baeolophus bicolor Tufted titmouse
Branta canadensis Canada goose
Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed hawk
Cardinalis cardinalis Northern cardinal
Carduelis tristis American goldfinch
Colaptes auratus Northern flicker
Columba livia Rock dove
Corvus brachyhynchos Common crow
Cyanocitta cristata Blue jay
Melanerpes carolinus Red-bellied woodpecker
Melospiza melodia Song sparrow
Mimus polyglottos Northern mockingbird
Passer domesticus House sparrow
Picoides pubescens Downy woodpecker
Poecile atricapillus Black-capped chickadee
Quiscalus quiscula Common grackle
Sayornis phoebe Eastern phoebe
Sitta carolinensis White-breasted nuthatch
Sturnus vulgaris European starling
Tachycineta bicolor Tree swallow
Turdus migratorius American robin
Zenaida macroura Mourning dove
Reptiles
Bufo americanus American toad
Chelydra serpentina Snapping turtle
Chrysemys picta Painted turtle
Nerodia sipedon Northern water snake
Thamnophis sirtalis Eastern garter snake
Amphibians
Hyla versicolor Grey tree frog
Plethodon cinerens Redback salamander
Pseudacris crucifer Spring peepers
Rana catesbeiana American bullfrog
Rana clamitans melanota Green frog
2.5 West River Downstream of Pond Lily Dam
A geomorphic assessment of the reach of the West River extending downstream of the
Pond Lily Dam was performed on May 11, 2011. The channel parallels the dam spillway
for 125 feet moving from right to left at a width of about 20 feet. The left bank for this
segment consists of the Pond Lily Dam. The earthen berm that forms the right bank for
this river reach appears to be constructed, most likely to protect the bordering
development. The berm is likely constructed of rip rap, with cement blocks that may

JULY 2011 2-20
have been re-used from walls demolished during the redevelopment of the surrounding
parcels.
Towards the southern end of this river segment, a depression was observed in the top of
the berm. It is possible that this is a sink hole due to incomplete compaction of the berm
during construction, or it could be inundated and scoured during high flow events
representing a flood chute over the berm. Lack of flood debris and flow indicators
signify that the sink hole is the more likely scenario, a factor considered when designing
alternatives for the downstream channel configuration post-dam removal.
The channel bed for this segment of river is composed entirely of angular placed
boulders. Due to the composition, large size, and angular nature of these boulders, it is
unlikely that they are native river rock; they were most likely placed during construction
of the berm, fish ladder construction, and redevelopment of neighboring parcels in order
to reinforce the dam. Scour
pools have formed between
these boulders up to four feet
deep in some locations.
After approximately 125 feet,

the channel turns west to
parallel the gabion-enforced
banks along the Walgreens
parking lot and driveway area
on the right bank and the New
Haven Land Trust Pond Lily
Preserve and day care center on
the left bank. At approximately
160 feet across the dam from the
end closest to Whalley Avenue Segment of West River beginning 125’ downstream of
the right bank begins with Pond Lily Dam. Note non-native rock in channel and
gabion basket walls on both banks.
stacked rip rap composed of
boulders with a four-foot diameter in places. The elevated area formed by the rip rap is
vegetated with black locust trees that appear to be 20 to 30 years in age. Behind the rip
rap, the gabion wall begins 20 feet downstream of the dam on the right bank and ends
approximately 280 feet downstream of the dam. On the left bank downstream of the
gabion basket wall, the bank is fortified with placed rip rap until a small floodplain forest
forms at 600 feet downstream of the dam. In the river segment immediately downstream
of the dam, the gabion wall is composed of four layers of stacked three-foot-tall gabion
baskets that are slightly tapered (approximately six inches per layer). The bottom-most
gabion was almost completely buried, with only the top six inches visible above the
channel bed at the time of inspection. The gabion baskets range from four to five feet
horizontal.

JULY 2011 2-21
The top of the bank is thickly vegetated on the left bank. Shrub and tree species observed
included multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora), sugar maple (Acer saccharum), honey locust
(Gleditsia triacanthos), sycamore (Plantanus occidentalis), American elm (Ulmus
Americana), basswood (Tilia sp.), aspen (Populus sp.) and thick Virginia creeper
(Parthenocissus quinquefolia), honeysuckle (Lonicera sp.), with poison ivy
(Toxicodendron radicans) in some locations. Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) and
sensitive fern (Onoclea sensibilis) were observed growing within the active channel
width. The left bank is vegetated with similar species in a 20-foot thick riparian buffer
beginning approximately 400 feet downstream of the dam.
While significant scour and undercutting were observed on the face of the berm opposite
the spillway, the southern face of the berm on the right bank in this location appears to
accumulate sediment during high flow events as evidenced by accumulation of debris on
the rip rap and a sand and gravel bar at the toe of the slope. It is possible that a small
backwater area forms in this location as the thalweg of the channel is directed toward the
left bank. This is further evidenced in pictures from the flood event documented on
March 7, 2011.
For the reach of the river contained within the gabion baskets, the channel is
homogenous. The bed is composed of large non-native rock that has a mean diameter of
approximately eight-inches. The rocks are interlocked throughout this river segment with
no small particle deposition (not embedded or armored). There were no clear bankfull
indicators on this river segment due to the constructed banks and recent record flood
(March 7, 2011). However, there is a clearly defined thalweg in the center of the channel
that forms an active channel that is approximately 10 feet wide when vegetation has filled
in during the low flow period of the summer months. The riparian corridor was littered
with a remarkable amount of garbage in this segment of the river.
Two constructed weirs were observed approximately 300 feet and 500 feet downstream
of the dam. These will be evaluated to determine if they are additional fish passage
barriers. At the time of field inspection, there was flow over both weirs sufficient for fish
passage. There was no deposition of sand or gravel in this segment of the river that
would provide preferred fish spawning habitat.
The measured slope of the channel from the dam to the first weir was 1.22% and from the
first weir to the second weir was 2.97%. Two storm water drainage outfalls with flaps were
observed conveying flow from the Walgreens development located 300 feet and 400 feet
downstream of the dam respectively.
The observed channel form changed significantly downstream of the second constructed
weir at approximately 600 feet downstream of the dam. Both natural banks are vegetated
with a 50% slope and thick knotweed growth on the right bank leading up to the paved
area and a forested floodplain on the left bank. The estimated bankfull width at this
location is 60 feet wide. Channel bed materials consist of sand and coarse gravel,
indicating that this is the first sediment storage reach downstream of the dam. This

JULY 2011 2-22
section of the river may be considered as a reference reach for natural channel
dimensions for West River in the project area.
2.6 Sensitive Species Review
The area surrounding the Pond Lily Dam is shown within a Connecticut Natural
Diversity Data Base (NDDB) polygon, indicating that sensitive species have been
identified in the general area. On May 26, 2011, a request was made to the Connecticut
Department of Environmental Protection through the formal NDDB review process. A
copy of the request is included in Appendix C. As of the writing of this document, a
response had not yet been received.
2.7 Sensitive Historical/Archeological Resources
On May 26, 2011, formal inquiries were made to the State Archeologist, Dr. Nicholas
Bellantoni, and the State Historic Preservation Office via the Connecticut Commission on
Culture and Tourism requesting information on archeological resources in the area of
Pond Lily Dam to determine whether the sit has the potential to contain archeological
resources. Copies of the letters are included in Appendix D. As of the writing of this
document, responses had not yet been received.

JULY 2011 2-23
3.0 SEDIMENT ANALYSIS
3.1 Overview
Most man-made ponds and lakes accumulate river-borne sediments, and Pond Lily is no
exception. Based on inspection of historical imagery from 1934, 1951, 1991 and 2008, it
appears that the accumulation of sediment behind the Pond Lily Dam is slowing filling
Pond Lily, as evidenced by the decreasing area of open water in the images.
The character of the sediment is influenced by the five upstream Regional Water
Authority reservoirs that trap much of the river's heavier sand and gravel sediment while
allowing fine grain silt and clay to move further downstream. Pond Lily receives the
pass-through silt and clay, along with sand from Route 69 and Route 15 (Merrit Parkway)
and local sediment from soft, reddish New Haven Arkose (sandstone-like) bedrock in the
area. The dominant West Rock ridge is composed of tough basalt-like dolerite. The
sediments on Pond Lily are varied depending on location, but most common are loose to
moderately dense cohesive fine grain material. The upstream end of the pond has a
higher percentage of sand and gravel, as would be expected.
Two sediment samples were collected in September 2010 by Princeton Hydro, Inc. and
analyzed by Phoenix Environmental Laboratories, Inc. of Manchester Connecticut. The
samples were analyzed for volatile organic compounds (VOCs), various metals, cyanide,
PCBs, total petroleum hydrocarbons, total organic carbon, hexavalent chromium and
semi-volatile compounds (SVOCs), pesticides and herbicides. The analytical methods
appear to have been selected in order to evaluate the environmental quality of the
sediment in regards to ecological risk as opposed to providing information relative to
disposal or reuse options, should the sediment be removed.
The 2010 sediment analytical results suggest the presence of contaminants typical of urban
stormwater runoff, although the levels do exceed those typically allowed for commercial
areas located in GA classified groundwater zones. Based upon the results, the primary
constituents of concern include the potential for leachable metals and for the group of semi-
volatile organic compounds referred to as polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
However, the nature and extent of sediment impacts can not be determined based upon the
limited analytical methodologies employed in 2010. Additional analytical data is required
to identify options and to better estimate costs associated with sediment management during
dam removal. Such testing is planned as part of the current phase of work.
3.2 Summary of 2011 Sediment Probing
Sediment probing throughout the impoundment was conducted by MMI in an effort to

characterize the sediment that has accumulated behind the Pond Lily Dam since its
construction. The sediment depth, type, and shear strength was identified at approximately
60 locations. The results of this analysis were then plotted on aerial photography to assess
deposition patterns, and to identify locations for further sediment investigation.

JULY 2011 3-1
Sediment probing was completed using a manually operated steel rod. Results were
recorded using a Trimble GPS unit that was calibrated and corrected using WAAS
technology such that points could be recorded at sub-meter accuracy. Undrained shear
strength was measured in-situ using a manually operated vane shear test device to
characterize the resistance to erosion the sediment will provide upon dam removal.
Figure 3-1 presents the sediment types identified. Where water velocities were highest at
the head of the impoundment, sediments consisted mostly of sand with trace amounts of
silt. Downstream of this sandy zone was a transition area where sediment consisted of a
mixture of sand and silt. Sediments in the remainder the impoundment where lower
velocities allow smaller particles to settle can be characterized by "muck," reflective of
silt with some clay and high organic content.
Figure 3-2 presents the depths of sediment measured at each location. Depths ranged from
zero to greater than 60 inches. The quantity of sediment in the active channel was estimated
based upon the measured sediment depths and is presented in Table 3-1. These quantities
do not include the sediment that has been deposited in the heavily vegetated fringe areas.
TABLE 3-1
Estimated Sediment Volume
Type Quantity (CY)

Muck 6,600
Sandy Muck 700
Sand 4,200
During the probing, an attempt was made to locate the historic river channel. Former
channel areas tend to exhibit thicker fine grained deposits, with refusal on native bed
material occurring one to several feet lower than adjacent probe locations. Additionally,
the filled channel substrate is often underlain by larger diameter native substrate (i.e.
cobbles and boulders) that are indicative of the historic channel armoring. These
conditions were recorded throughout the impoundment and plotted to approximate the
location of the historic river channel as indicated on Figure 3-2.
In-situ shear strength of the sediments varied by depth and sediment type. The sandy
sediments ranged between 150 and 300 pounds per square foot (psf) and did not
significantly vary with depth. The organic, silt and clay matter ("muck") showed high
levels of consolidation with increasing depth, with shear strengths that increased by as
much as five times at a depth of 36 inches. Table 3-2 presents a summary of the data
collected. The values of mechanical shear strength represent a very weak material that is
prone to erosion. The mechanical shear strengths will be converted to hydraulic shear
stress and compared to the critical shear stress and predicted velocities once the full
hydraulic analysis is completed. The erodibility, along with the proposed channel design
and placement will guide and shape the project's sediment management plan.

JULY 2011 3-2
Legend
Original Pool Edge
Sediment Probing Locations
Muck
Sand
Sandy Muck
Sediment Type
Sand
Sandy Muck
Silt/Organic Muck
S
a
n
d Original Pool Edge
Vegetation on Alder
&
old sediments Dogwood
Zone
SOURCE: Location:
2007-2009 aerial base from Microsoft Virtual Earth via ESRI
Figure 3-1: Top Layer Sediment Type Map New Haven, CT
Sediment information based on MMI field investigations
Map By: SJB
MMI#: 1899-08
Pond Lily Dam Alternatives Analysis MXD: P:\Fig 3-1 Sediment.mxd
Date: July 19, 2011 (203) 271-1773 Fax: (203) 272-9733
Legend
Original Pool Edge

Sediment Thickness
0.0 - 1.0
1.1 - 2.0
2.1 - 3.0
3.1 - 4.0
4.1 - 5.0
5+
Historic River Channel
Outline
Channel Area
Original Pool Edge
Probable Location of Historic River Channel
SOURCE: Location:
2007-2009 aerial base from Microsoft Virtual Earth via ESRI
Figure 3-2: Sediment Thickness Map New Haven, CT
Sediment probing information from MMI field investigations
Map By: SJB
MMI#: 1899-08
Pond Lily Dam Alternatives Analysis MXD: P:\Fig 3-2 Sed Thick.mxd
Date: July 28, 2011 (203) 271-1773 Fax: (203) 272-9733
TABLE 3-2
Undrained In-Situ Sediment Shear Strengths
Mechanical Shear
Type Depth Strength (PSF)
Muck 6" 80-100
Muck 36" 400-550
Sand 12" 150-300
3.3 Sampling Locations & Methodology
On behalf of the Town of Woodbridge and American Rivers, MMI has submitted a
Sediment Sampling Plan to the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection for
review an input prior to sampling activities. Five vertically averaged sediment samples
are proposed to be collected and analyzed – one downstream of the dam and four in the
upstream impoundment. The sample locations within the impoundment were selected to
refine the understanding of potential contaminants in the sediment and provide
information that will subsequently be used to evaluate sediment reuse or disposal options.

JULY 2011 3-5
4.0 HYDROLOGY
4.1 Hydrologic Analysis
The West River watershed has a total drainage area of 34.6 square miles, flowing from
north to south from Prospect to Long Island Sound at West Haven. The watershed area at
the Pond Lily Dam is 16.6 square miles. The watershed encompasses basin numbers
5303, 5304, and 5305 on the CTDEP Natural Drainage Basins in Connecticut map
(CTDEP, 1981). Five Regional Water Authority (RWA) water supply reservoirs are
located in the central part of the watershed, known as Lakes Bethany, Watrous,
Chamberlain, Glen, and Dawson. The water supply safe yield and withdrawal rate for the
RWA system in this watershed is 10.4 million gallons per day (mgd.
Flood control improvements were constructed in the lower West River watershed (below
Pond Lily Dam) following extensive damage from the 1982 flood. Specific measures
included construction of additional box culverts at East Ramsdell Street, a new bridge at
Blake Street, and channel improvements from East Ramsdell Street to Pond Lily Dam
and from Whalley Avenue to Blake Street. An extensive freshwater wetland and then a
tidal marsh extends from Whalley Avenue to a tide gate at Boston Post Road.
Hydrologic information is available from several sources, which are summarized below.
There are no USGS flow gauges in this watershed; however, water level measurements
are made at the Lake Dawson Reservoir spillway by the Regional Water Authority.
4.2 Flood Flows
Existing Data – The 1991 FEMA Flood Insurance Study for Woodbridge contains
hydrology information for the peak flow rates predicted for flood events with an average
return frequency of 10, 50, 100, and 500 years. Hydrology was analyzed by the U.S. Soil
Conservation Service (SCS) using the TR-20 computer model. Results are reported in
Table 4-1. The watershed area at Lily Pond Avenue is 16.4 square miles; at Lake
Dawson, it is 13.9 square miles. The recently issued New Haven County Flood Insurance
Study includes both New Haven and Woodbridge and repeats the 1991 data. The 1978
West River Flood Control Study by Flaherty Giavara Associates lists a 100-year
frequency flood flow of 3,003 cfs at Pond Lily, based upon a 1976 SCS study. The
CTDEP Gazetteer of natural drainage area reports a watershed area of 16.6 square miles
at Pond Lily and 13.9 at Lake Dawson, consistent with the FEMA study.
USGS Regression Equations – U.S. Geologic Survey hydrology regression equations

were accessed via the internet StreamStats software to predict low and peak flow rates at
Pond Lily, using updated precipitation data. The equations do not consider reservoir
storage or water supply withdrawals. The results are shown in Table 4-1. The reported
watershed area is 17.1 square miles, which is higher than the FEMA watershed area.

JULY 2011 4-1
TABLE 4-1
West River Flood Discharges
Return Frequency (years)

Source
2 10 50 100 500
FEMA FIS (1991) 1,150 1,760 2,250 3,200
USGS Streamstats (2011) 689 1,440 2,270 2,660 3,530
Soil Conservation Service (1967) 3,003
Regional Water Authority Data – The Regional Water Authority has provided reservoir
peak water level information for the period from 1994 to 2011, including the March 7,
2011 flood event. The spillways stage discharge table enables converting the reservoir
stages to actual discharge rates. Water levels and discharges are influenced by water
supply withdrawals, and the pre-flood reservoir water levels. Table 4-2 lists the peak
annual floods of the West River watershed.
TABLE 4-2
West River Peak Annual Floods
Transformed
Spillway Lake Dawson
to Pond Lily
Date Head Discharge
Drainage Area
(ft) (cfs)
(cfs)
3/28/94 0.7 238 293
4/17/95 0.3 61 75
12/2/96 1.5 748 920
1/27/97 0.4 97 119
5/11/98 0.8 291 358
3/1/99 0.7 238 293
4/24/00 0.5 140 172
2001 0.5 140 172
12/20/02 0.95 377 464
3/21/03 0.93 365 449
4/14/04 1.61 831 1,022
10/15/05 1.61 831 1,022
4/23/06 2.48 1,590 1,955
4/16/07 2.78 1,886 2,320
12/12/08 2.03 1,177 1,448
12/27/09 1.38 660 812
3//30/10 1.68 886 1,090
3/7/11 2.52 1,628 2,002
The annual peak flow rates show a distinct rise beginning in 2006 compared to the earlier
record. The USGS gauge on the nearby Mill River in Hamden shows a somewhat similar
trend, with above average peak flows in 1996 and 2006 through 2011. This is consistent
with reports by residents of increased flooding in recent years.

JULY 2011 4-2
The record peak flow rate at Lake Dawson was on June 5-6, 1982, resulting in extensive
flood damage along West River. The measured depth at the then 80-foot long spillway
was 4.9 feet and, assuming a discharge coefficient of 3.7, was equal to 3,210 cfs, which
has an estimated return frequency of 500 years. This is consistent with CTDEP and
CTDOT regional data.
The Konolds Pond dam, located approximately ¾ mile upstream of Pond Lily Dam, was
intentionally breached at the spillway and permanently drained, leaving the earth
embankment and abutments. The breached spillway serves as a contraction, and the
upstream pool can temporarily detain some floodwater.
The 1989 Safe Yield Analysis of the West River Reservoirs by Roald Haestad, Inc.
indicates that the safe yield is 10.3 mgd (15.9 cfs) and that water levels are commonly
three feet below the spillway. The reservoir area at spillway elevation is 69.5 acres.
March 7, 2011 Flood – A significant flood event occurred on March 7, 2011 as a result of
several inches of rain over winter snow pack. The measured flood flow rate at Lake
Dawson was 1,628 cfs, approximately equal to 2,000 cfs at Pond Lily Dam. This flood
event had a recurrence frequency of about 50 years. The West River peak water
elevations during the flood were measured and photographed at a number of bridges.
Water levels at Merritt Avenue were flush with the bridge deck and were just over the
bridge and pavement at Bradley Street. The observed elevations are a little below the
predicted 50-year flood elevations on the FEMA Flood Insurance Study profile drawing.
April 17, 2011 Flood – A fierce frontal system with thunderstorms and high wind
occurred on the evening of April 17, 2011 and into the early hours of the morning of
April 18, 2011, with 2.44 inches of rain on a saturated watershed. The Lake Dawson
water stage was 1.52 feet, corresponding to a discharge of 763 cfs. This event had an
average return frequency of about two years.
4.3 Low Flows
The StreamStats software also produces information on likely seasonal low flows based
on bioperiods that correspond to significant ecological conditions as noted in Table 4-3.
Actual values vary due to water supply withdrawals or low flow augmentation release.
TABLE 4-3
Seasonal Flows from StreamStats Analysis
Median
Season Discharge
(cfs)
Salmonid Spawning (November) 18.7
Habitat Forming (November) 46.7
Clupeid Spawning (May) 29.6
Resident Spawning (June) 12.0

JULY 2011 4-3
5.0 HYDRAULIC ANALYSIS
5.1 Overview
Hydraulic analysis of the West River at the project site was completed using the HEC-
RAS (River Analysis Software) program, created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
(USACE). The model is used to compute water surface profiles for one-dimensional,
steady state, and gradually varied flow. By creating cross sections of the existing and
proposed channel geometry, this model can accommodate a full network of channels, a
dendritic system, or a single river reach. HEC-RAS is capable of modeling water surface
profiles under subcritical, supercritical, and mixed flow conditions.
Water surface profiles are computed from one cross section to the next by solving the
one-dimensional energy equation with an iterative procedure called the standard step
method. Energy losses are evaluated by friction (Manning's Equation) and the
contraction/expansion coefficient multiplied by the change in velocity head at each
section. The momentum equation is used in situations where the water surface profile is
rapidly varied such as hydraulic jumps. These situations include mixed flow regime
calculations, hydraulics of dams and bridges, and evaluating profiles at a river
confluence.
5.2 Model Results
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) studied the West River through
the project area as part of their December 17, 2010 Flood Insurance Study (FIS). The
results of this study were used to create a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), which is
used to predict flooding elevations along the portion of the river that was studied, starting
in Woodbridge, and ending in New Haven. The FIRM indicates that detailed hydraulic
analysis of the river was performed, which allowed the extents of the 100-year
floodplain, encroached floodway, and 500-year floodplain to be computed and mapped.
The Pond Lily Dam, impoundment, and surrounding channel encompass FEMA lettered
sections J through M. A data request was completed to obtain the hydraulic model used
to generate the effective FIRM through this area; however, the full effective model could
not be located by FEMA through their Engineering Library. Sections of West River were
modeled separately using a number of independent hydraulic models ranging from HEC-
2 to WSP2, and were all run at different times. The modeling input was scanned from
microfiche in most cases. The following Table 5-1 summarizes the information obtained
from the FEMA Engineering Library.

JULY 2011 5-1
TABLE 5-1
Hydraulic Models Provided by FEMA
Verified as
FEMA Sections Modeling Program River Stationing Run Date
Effective?
A–B WSP2 ? ? No
C–D HEC-2 202.02 – 215.35 Oct. 23, 1996 No
F–H WSP2 ? ? No
I–L HEC-2 8.2 – 12 May 29, 1996 No
M–N HEC-2 1 – 11 Aug. 1977 No
O–W HEC-2 0.1 – 10660 Jul. 7, 1989 No
The input to each model was replicated in HEC-RAS. To determine what portions of
river channel were being analyzed by what model, bridges/dams within the modeling
input were correlated to those found on the FIRM. Reach distances between cross
sections were then added in an attempt to combine the individual models into one.
However, the modeling reach lengths were not consistent across the models when
compared with measurements of the river based upon current mapping. Cross section J
was not found in the modeling input provided. Also missing from the provided modeling
data was a driveway bridge to a hotel at the direct upstream of the Pond Lily
impoundment.
As part of the comprehensive assessment of the Pond Lily impoundment, Milone and
MacBroom, Inc. performed bathymetric survey, as well as survey of the dam, the channel
upstream and downstream of the dam, and the numerous bridges upstream of the Pond
Lily Dam.
To create a comprehensive existing conditions hydraulic model throughout the project

area, the cross sections obtained as part of the MMI survey were used to supplement,
update, and correct the disjointed FEMA modeling. Manning’s roughness “n”
coefficients and the expansion/contraction loss coefficients were modified to reflect
current field conditions. Reach lengths were also computed and corrected from the
erroneous FEMA values.
The compiled HEC-RAS model was run using the flows reported in the FEMA FIS, and
then calibrated based upon field measurements of the project area during a 50-year flood
event that occurred on March 6, 2011. Water surface elevation measurements were taken
at the spillway and at three bridges upstream of the impoundment. The hydraulic model
was found to predict flooding elevations throughout the impoundment to within 6 inches
of measured conditions.
Proposed removal of the spillway and selected sediment excavation was then modeled to
assess the hydraulics of a full or partial dam removal. Based on this modeling, removal
of approximately 100 feet of the spillway (approximately half of the spillway) and
excavation of sediment to the depth of the historic channel would result in water depths

JULY 2011 5-2
of approximately 5.5 feet, with velocities ranging from 3 to 5 feet per second (fps) during
the 100-year FEMA flow (1% chance annual recurrence). During typical springtime
flows, water depths would be less than one foot, with velocities in the range of 2 to 3 fps.
Table 5-2 presents a summary of water surface elevations downstream (unchanged) and
upstream of the present dam under existing and proposed conditions for average spring
flows and the 100-year flow event.
TABLE 5-2
Preliminary Hydraulic Modeling Results – Water Surface Elevation
100-Year Flow Average Spring Flow

Existing Conditions Proposed Conditions Existing Conditions Proposed Conditions
Downstream
74.27 feet 74.42 feet 70.01 feet 70.05 feet
of Dam
Upstream of
78.47 feet 75.06 feet 76.21 feet 70.23 feet
Dam

JULY 2011 5-3
6.0 ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS
6.1 Overview
An alternatives analysis was performed to determine the most feasible and prudent means
of achieving the defined project goals and objectives. The ability to provide fish passage,
improve habitat and upstream water quality, and maintain the appropriate sediment
transport regime under each alternative was evaluated. The costs associated with each
alternative were also considered, although only in a broad planning sense. Public safety
and impacts to riparian landowners were evaluated in the context of the structural
integrity of the existing dam and the potential for breaching, and flood hazard potential.
6.2 Target Fish Species
Fish passage projects have the potential to provide significant benefits to fisheries. It is
important to have a good understanding of the existing and future desired fish species in
order to design a project that will provide the desired benefits. This section presents the
background information used in evaluation of the fish passage alternatives on the West
River.
Fish that migrate between fresh water and marine environments are collectively called
diadromous fish. One of the goals of this project is to provide upstream and downstream
fish passage for anadromous and resident species. These include anadromous and
catadromous fish. Anadromous fish lay their eggs and develop in fresh water. They then
migrate to salt water where they remain until they are sexually mature. Once
anadromous fish reach sexual maturity, they return to fresh water to spawn.
Catadromous fish spawn in the ocean and migrate to fresh water to grow to adult size.
The primary fish species that would benefit from achieving the stated project goals in the
West River are the anadromous blueback river herring (Alosa aestivalis) and alewife
(Alosa pseudoharengus), known collectively as river herring. A number of other species
may also benefit from restoration activities, including the catadromous American river
eel (Anguilla rostrata) and the anadromous sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus).
Alewives and blueback herring are common in Connecticut and throughout New
England. Alewives typically migrate first, followed by the bluebacks a few weeks later.
Estimates of catch rates, spawning runs, and management goals of these two species are
often grouped together due to the difficulty in distinguishing them from one another.
Physiological and behavioral limitations of the target species and physical conditions of
the river, including stream gradient and seasonal flow velocities, must be met for
anadromous fish to readily pass to and from their spawning habitat. The physiological
and behavioral characteristics vary among the target species. Important design

JULY 2011 6-1
characteristics are listed in Table 5-1. Additional background information on the target
species follows.
TABLE 6-1
Fish Passage Requirements for Target Species
Alewife American Eel

Blueback Herring
Parameter (Alosa (Anguilla
(Alosa aestivalis)
pseudoharengus) rostrata)
Life Stage Adults Adults Juvenile
Life Strategy Anadromous Anadromous Catadromous
Thermal Regime1 Cool Water Cool Water Cool Water
Spawning Temperatures 1,2,3 12.0 – 16.0°C 14.0 – 26.0°C 17.0°C
Spawning Habitat Lakes and Ponds Riverine Waters Marine –
w/Hard Substrate Sargasso Sea
Major Run4,5 April - May April - June March - June
Sustained Swimming Speed 3.0 – 5.0 fps 3.0 – 5.0 fps 0.8 – 2.6 fps
Cruising Speed 2.8 fps 2.8 fps
Burst Speed 6.8 fps 6.8 fps
Passable Depth6,7 >6 inches >6 inches ---
1
Eakins, R. J. 2004. Ontario Freshwater Fishes Life History Database.
2
Fay, C.W., R.J. Neves, and G.B. Pardue. 1983. Species profiles: life histories and environmental
requirements of coastal fish and invertebrates (Mid-Atlantic) – Alewife/Blueback Herring. U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service. FWS/OBS-82/11.9. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, TR EL-82-4.
3 Kircheis, F.W. 2004. Sea Lamprey Petromyzon marinus Linnaeus 1758.
4
Eakins, R.J. 2004. Ontario Freshwater Fishes Life History Database. Version 2.36 World Wide Web
electronic publication. www.afs-soc/fishdb/index.htm, 20 January 2004.
5 Katopodis, Chris, 1992 Introduction to Fishway Design – total speed range is reported
6Froese, R. and D. Pauly. Editors. 2008. Fish Base. World Wide Web electronic publication.
www.fishbase.org, version (12/2008).
7 Kristen Ferry and Phil Brady. Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries. Personal Communication,
February 2009.
Alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus)
Alewife runs occur in many New England streams. Alewife is an important commercial
fish species on the Atlantic Coast. Adults average 10 to 14 inches in length and weigh
less than a pound. The alewife is an important forage species on which striped bass,
bluefish, and other economically important fish prey.
Ideal alewife spawning habitat consists of lakes and ponds. The adult alewife spawning
run generally occurs in April and May at water temperatures between 12.0° and 16.0°C.
The juveniles descend the stream for the ocean during June through October of the same
year. Adults travel at a cruising speed of 2.8 feet per second (fps) and can reach burst
speeds of 6.8 fps. Alewife travel in schools. The juveniles will return as adults in three
to five years.

JULY 2011 6-2
Scant literature exists with respect to required depths for passage; thus, rules of thumb are
used to estimate critical passage depths. Body thickness can be taken as 30% of total
body length, with resultant body thicknesses of three to 4.2 inches based on a 10 to 14
inch length, respectively (Froese, R. and D. Pauly, 2009). Using the rule of the thumb
that critical passage depth is 1.5 times the body thickness, the minimum passage depth
required for a 14 inch fish is 6.3 inches.
Blueback Herring (Alosa aestivalis)
Blueback herring are very similar in appearance to alewife. The blueback herring is not a
highly regarded game fish; however it is a very important forage species on which striped
bass, bluefish, and other economically important fish prey.
Blueback herring begin their upstream migration from April to June. Blueback herring
spawn over hard substrates in areas with fast currents. Spawning typically occurs at
temperatures above 14.0°C and ceases at temperatures above 26°C. Juvenile blueback
herring migrate out to sea between September and November of the same year. Similar to
alewife, they spend two to three years at sea before returning to their natal waters to spawn.
Adults travel at a cruising speed of 2.8 fps and can reach a burst speed of 6.8 fps just as
the alewife do. As with alewife, blueback herring also travel in schools. Blueback
herring are generally smaller than alewife. Using the rule of thumb estimations for
critical passage depth given for alewife, assuming adult fish lengths between 9.5 and 12
inches and body thickness as 23% of total body length, the critical passage depth is
determined to be just over four inches (Froese, R. and D. Pauly, 2009). The passage
depth necessary for alewife will provide more than sufficient depth for blueback herring.
Blueback herring appear to be stronger swimmers than alewife. Studies suggest that 83%
to 95% of blueback herring between eight and 10 inches in length would be able to travel
a distance of 65 feet against linear flows of 1.6 fps compared to only 67% for alewives
under the same conditions (Alex Haro, Personal Communication). Swimming
performance for blueback herring generally increases with fish length.
American Eel (Anguilla rostrata)
The American eel is a catadromous fish that spends its lifetime in rivers and migrates to
the ocean to spawn. All adult American eels spawn in the Sargasso Sea located in the
Atlantic Ocean, between the West Indies and the Azores. The larvae drift into the Gulf
Stream where they mature into clear "glass eels" and then into elvers (immature eels) as
they enter the estuaries and rivers during the winter months. Upstream migration occurs
from March to June. American eel spend between eight and 25 years in freshwater rivers
before the mature silver eels emigrate to marine waters between September and
November.

JULY 2011 6-3
American eel adults typically reach a maximum length of 30 inches. Adults descend
rivers in the fall, and juveniles travel upstream in the spring. American eels travel at a
cruising speed of 2.4 fps and can reach a burst speed of 6.0 to 7.0 fps (Table 2-1). They
are solitary travelers and travel near the bottom or edge of the river.
6.3 No Action Alternative
Under this alternative, no alterations to the Pond Lily Dam would be made. Additionally,
no actions would be performed to restore the river back to a more natural state or to
restore free flowing hydraulic conditions along the river. Under this alternative, the West
River landscape upstream of the dam would remain unchanged. The Pond Lily Dam
would continue to block anadromous and other freshwater fish that could otherwise
benefit from the river, and riparian connectivity would continue to be disjointed.
While the Pond Lily Dam is a run-of-the-river structure, the impoundment extends
upstream for over a mile. The dam offers no flood protection and so the no action
alternative would neither help nor hinder flood control.
The specific rate of sediment entering the impoundment has not been assessed; however,
the assumption can be made that the impoundment will continue to fill with sediment and
that the impoundment will eventually reach an equilibrium condition with respect to the
amount of sediment entering and exiting the impoundment.
Perhaps the most compelling negative associated with no action is the current state of the
spillway and earthen berm dam at Pond Lily. The spillway is in very poor condition and
is continually degrading. If not substantially modified for fish passage, the dam will need
extensive and costly repairs and/or replacement.
This alternative does not meet the basic project goals and objectives. It would not restore
natural river conditions, improve upstream water quality, or allow for the passage of
target species. For these reasons, it was not considered further.
6.4 Alternative #1 – Full Spillway Removal
The removal of small dams is becoming a popular restoration option given that many of
these structures are obsolete, safety hazards, and key causes of habitat impairment. Dam
removal is often the most desirable alternative for restoration of a river to most closely
model a natural condition. The benefits of full dam removal are numerous and include
restoration of natural movement for fish and other aquatic organisms, elimination of
increases in water temperature and decreases in water quality associated with impounded
water, return of natural river processes such as sediment transport and natural flow,
elimination of altered channel morphology associated with impoundments, increased
public safety, and restoration of recreational boat passage.

JULY 2011 6-4
In the case of the Pond Lily Dam, the structure consists of the concrete spillway over
which water flows, and the earthen embankment on the west side of the spillway. The
alternatives assessment assumes that the earthen embankment portions of the dam will
remain, as there is no inherent reason to remove them, and removal options will focus on
the concrete spillway.
Under this alternative, the concrete structure that comprises the Pond Lily spillway would
be physically removed from the channel using heavy machinery. The exposed areas in
the upstream impoundment would need to be stabilized, and channel conditions would
potentially require modification to achieve fish passage.
The physical removal of the Pond Lily Dam is believed to be feasible. The dam currently
serves no commercial uses, and due to of lack of public access, recreational use of the
impoundment is primarily limited to abutters. Further, the dam provides no flood
protection. There is good physical access to both abutments (via private property) as well
as to the downstream channel. However, the removal of the entire spillway is not
necessary in order to meet the project goals and objectives. In fact, sediment
management would be made easier if the portion of the spillway on either side of the
newly constructed channel remains. A number of partial removal alternatives are
evaluated below.
6.5 Alternative #2 – Partial Spillway Removal with Channel Alignment #1
Alternative #2 places the channel along the existing eastern bank of the West River in the
area of currently vegetated wetland, thus maximizing the land area along Whalley
Avenue. This alternative is conceptually presented in Figure 6-1. It would require a
significant amount of excavation to create the new channel. Construction access would
be primarily from the east. The river alignment under this alternative would be a fairly
straight, with little meander. Identified advantages and disadvantages are listed below.
Advantages
Avoids sharp changes in river alignment.
Has potential to re-establish more natural sediment transport regime.
Disadvantages
Requires extensive sediment excavation.
Results in destruction of heavily vegetated area on eastern bank.
Would minimize aesthetic value of the channel when viewed from the west (State
Route 69) and rely on public access from the east.

JULY 2011 6-5
Alternative #3 places the channel along the western bank of the West River parallel to
Whalley Avenue. Figure 6-2 graphically depicts this alternative. The alignment more or
less maintains the existing western bank and results in the most marked bend in the river
as compared to the other channel alignment alternatives. Identified advantages and
disadvantages are listed below.
Advantages
Has potential to re-establish more natural sediment transport regime.
Would maintain heavily vegetated emergent wetland area on the east bank.
Would require less sediment excavation than Alternative #2 as it would make use of
the deep area in the southwestern section of the pond.
Disadvantages
The berm along Whalley Avenue and earthen berm portion of the existing dam would
remain vulnerable to high (fast) river flows.
Would minimize aesthetic value of the channel when viewed from the east and rely
on public access from the west (State Route 69).
Alternative #4 is a partial spillway removal with a channel alignment that places the river
along what is believed to be the historical thalweg. This alternative maintains the heavily
vegetated wetland area on the west bank of the river, to be preserved as a wetland
enhancement area and possible nature preserve. Area would remain on the western bank
of the channel for upland viewing/access and possible recreational area. This would also
serve to stabilize the berm on the western bank of the existing channel, which in its
present state is vulnerable to erosion and possible breach from high velocity river flows.
Figure 6-3 graphically depicts this alternative. Identified advantages and disadvantages
are listed below.
Advantages
Generates minimal sediment excavation and maximizes in-place stabilization.
Creates land area on both sides of the new channel.
Results in a mild horizontal alignment, with no sharp bends.
Better protects the berm along Whalley Avenue from future erosion.
Maintains the large vegetated wetland on the east bank of the river.
Has the most potential to re-establish more natural sediment transport regime (relative
to other alternatives)
Disadvantages
None identified based on stated project goals.

JULY 2011 6-7
6.8 Sediment Management Considerations
A number of sediment management options were evaluated that would apply to the
various partial or full dam removal options evaluated. These are described below. The
ultimate sediment management scenario will depend upon the results of planned sediment
testing and regulatory review of proposed restoration plans.
Remove Spillway with No Sediment Removal, Allow Channel to Self-Form – Under this
scenario, the Pond Lily Dam would be removed, and no manual excavation of sediments
would be performed. The natural flow of the West River would transport sediment to
create a channel through the existing impoundment. It is anticipated that the sediment
wedge immediately upstream of the dam would be transported downstream as the
channel creates a uniform profile. Additionally, the amount of sediment necessary to
establish bankfull and low-flow geometry would be transported downstream. Given the
ecological sensitivities in the West River and the urban nature of runoff and sediment
quality, uncontrolled downstream release is not recommended.
Remove Spillway, Remove Wedge of Sediment Behind Dam, Allow Channel to Self Form
– Under this scenario, the dam would be removed as well as the wedge of sediment
immediately behind it. The upstream channel would be allowed to "self form" by
erosion, and fine grain sediments would move downstream. The downstream scour hole
may partially refill with upstream sediment when it is transported downstream. For
reasons described above, this management option is not recommended.
Remove Spillway, Excavate Sediment Through Impoundment to Create Channel – Under

this alternative, the dam would be removed and sediments within the future channel
between the dam and the Royal Motel Bridge would be excavated to create fish passable
conditions after dam removal and prevent future erosion and downstream migration of
sediment. The newly formed stream banks would be stabilized in place. This approach
has been taken on many other dam removals, both in Connecticut and elsewhere, and is
recommended at Pond Lily as well.
6.9 Engineering and Ecological Considerations
There are several dam removal design components that will be under consideration
regardless of the exact channel alignment and sediment management agreed upon for
advanced design. These are separate decision points concerning the spillway, channel
formation, sediment, and wetlands. These components are discussed briefly below in
order to serve as a starting point for future design stages and deliberations.
Partial Spillway Breach Design – Regardless of the final channel alignment and sediment
management strategy agreed upon for the restoration of West River, the partial spillway,
full depth removal proposed in Alternatives #2, #3, and #4 will need to incorporate
stabilization of the berm along Whalley Avenue as well as the remaining spillway. The

JULY 2011 6-10
design must address filling and grading in a manner to both support natural channel
design and the ecological, aesthetic and recreational value of the created channel but also
to protect the remaining structures as well as the shopping center (Walgreens) parking lot.
The hydraulic analysis indicates that a breach of approximately 100 feet will achieve fish
passage and channel restoration but will not impound water under high flow conditions
such that the remaining area would no longer act as a dam.
Natural Channel Design – The goal of the human, wetland, and aquatic habitat at the
Preserve post-dam removal is to replace and maintain, and most likely improve upon and
enhance, the current ecological value of the site. Natural habitat design must take into
consideration channel width, slope, shape, and physical features such as woody debris,
substrate, bank construction materials, and the like. Hydrologic analysis and hydraulic
modeling indicate that the water depths under very low summertime conditions will be
quite shallow (on the order of four or five inches). During typical springtime fish
migration conditions, water depth will be sufficient to pass fish (on the order of seven to
eight inches). Instream habitat features can also be incorporated into the design to cause
localized backwater and scour pools to provide habitat diversity. The West River has a
very flat slope through the project area and consequently will have low velocities under a
wide range of flows. Even under extreme high flow events, velocities are predicted in the
3.0 to 5.0 feet per second (fps) range. During the spring fish migration season, velocities
of 2.0 fps are anticipated. The mild profile and sandy sediment on the channel bed will
tend to deter bed forms, such as pools and riffles.
Wetland Habitat – Under current conditions, a wetland fringe surrounds the Pond Lily
impoundment, with a more significant vegetated scrub shrub wetland community on the
eastern edge. This is not an unusual type of wetland community in Connecticut and this
type of habitat is abundant in many impounded river systems. The ground elevation in
the marsh area is slightly higher than the water surface elevation at around 76 feet
NGVD. Under a full depth breach condition, normal water surface elevations are
predicted to be five to six feet lower, near elevation 70. As such, the existing scrub shrub
wetland will be significantly higher than the adjacent water. There will be opportunity to
create new wetland on either side of the newly created channel; however, the extent and
type will depend upon the amount of excavation that is undertaken.
Three wetland types are possible: (1) palustrine emergent marsh, which would support
emergent wet meadow plant species; (2) palustrine scrub shrub wetland; and (3)
palustrine forested wetland, which would support a more woody vegetation. At higher
elevations, an upland forested riparian buffer is possible. The emergent marsh habitat
would require the greatest degree of sediment excavation, followed by scrub shrub
habitat, forested wetland, and finally forested upland.
Removal of other Possible Fish Passage Barriers – During the field assessment and
investigation associated with the planning for the Pond Lily Dam removal, MMI staff
noted three potential barriers to fish passage in this section of the West River, aside from

JULY 2011 6-11
the dam. Although the majority of the original spillway impounding Konold’s Pond
upstream of Pond Lily has been removed, the base of the concrete spillway remains in
place, creating a potential fish passage barrier during low flow periods. In addition, two
boulder weir structures were observed across the channel at 300 feet and 500 feet
downstream of the Pond Lily Dam, which could be barriers to fish passage during low
flow periods. Although detailed design of removal of these structures is not included in
the current scope of work, these are addressed in a conceptual level, with a
recommendation that these barriers are removed to allow complete restoration of fish
passage to this section of the West River.
Recreational Opportunities – Future raised boardwalk trails and educational features are
possible in this area, with pedestrian access from either or both the eastern bank off South
Genesee Street and from the west via constructed pedestrian bridge.
Constructability – A potential construction sequence follows.
1. Construct temporary sediment traps on the downstream side of the spillway through
the placement of temporary rock riprap berms in the channel downstream of the dam.
2. Construct west bank access for initial dam breach.
3. Remove fish ladder for possible salvage.
4. Notch the spillway by approximately two feet near the west end at the fish ladder to
partially drain the pond to approximate elevation 74 feet and allow the pool to
partially dewater.
5. Construct east bank access.
6. Construct a berm/haul road up the centerline of the impoundment near what will
become the west channel bank, keeping active water flow in the western side of the
channel. A temporary culvert will need to be installed beneath this access road. The
haul road will also serve to isolate the east bank to contain vegetated sediment and
protect the area from erosion.
7. Construct the permanent channel to the east of the newly constructed berm/haul
road. Construction will be "in the dry" with water flow remaining to the west during
construction.
8. Stabilize the east bank of the new channel to permanently protect the existing
wetland vegetation and deposited sediment.
9. Construct a full depth breach of spillway in the area of the new channel, along a
width of approximately 100 feet.
10. Open flow to the newly constructed channel from the upstream West River flow.
11. Stabilize the area west of the newly constructed channel and fill the existing channel
downstream of the existing spillway near the existing fish ladder.
12. Stabilize and revegetate site.

JULY 2011 6-12
6.10 Comparison of Alternatives
Table 6-2 presents a summary of the ability of each of the alternatives to meet the stated
project goals and objectives as well as the feasibility of these alternatives.
Partial spillway removal meets the identified project goals and objectives for West River
without the added cost of removing the entire stone and concrete structure. Partial
spillway removal would restore the river back to a more natural condition, improving
upstream water quality, enhancing habitat, and allowing passage of target species. After
partial removal of the spillway, there will be no need for long-term operations and
maintenance, creating a sustainable channel condition. For these reasons, partial spillway
removal is recommended.
TABLE 6-2
Comparison of Alternatives
Project Goal No Action Alternate 2 Alternate 3 Alternate 4

Is likely to restore river habitat to natural environment N M M Y
Is likely to pass target fish species N Y Y Y
Is likely to improve flooding in the vicinity of the dam N Y Y Y
Will reduce O&M requirements of the dam N Y Y Y
Will promote long-term sustainability of the dam and river N Y Y Y
Will improve upstream water quality in West River N Y Y Y
Will promote recreational use of the river N Y Y Y
Will promote most natural channel design N N N Y
Y = Yes N = No M = Maybe
Based on the foregoing analysis, the following actions are recommended:
1. Remove approximately half (±100 feet) of the masonry spillway at Pond Lily Dam.
This, along with channel restoration, will enable fish passage, provide structural
stability along the adjacent banks, and will not create a condition where the remaining
structure will impound water under high flows.
2. Partially excavate sediment within the impoundment to create a new channel. The
Alternative #4 alignment will result in the most natural channel design and minimize
sediment excavation. This alignment is also believed to be the historic channel
alignment prior to dam construction. A construction access haul road could be
partially left in place to maintain the west bank of the newly formed channel, and to
shelter both Whalley Avenue and the adjacent commercial plaza.
3. Incorporate natural habitat features in the newly created channel, such as placement
of woody debris, riffles, vegetated bars, and/or small boulder clusters.
4. Grade the sediment within the impoundment on either side of the newly constructed
channel to create constructed wetland habitat and vegetated riparian upland. The

JULY 2011 6-13
extent of excavation will likely be influenced by the quality of the underlying
sediment, which has yet to be determined. Another consideration will be the
tolerance for physical disturbance along the eastern portion of the project site in the
area of existing scrub shrub wetland. A decision to allow that area to naturally
succeed to forested area or maintain a fringe of wetland can be made as the design
proceeds.
5. Protect the existing berm along Whalley Avenue as well as the bank that is located
directly across from the spillway near the Walgreens parking lot through placement of
fill, ideally using excavated sediment that is relocated from the impoundment.
Maintain the western portion of the spillway as a core wall, to be cut off at grade to
provide additional stability and protection.
These preliminary recommendations will be refined once sediment testing data is

available. Figure 6-4 is an illustrative plan that reflects the above recommendations.
Figure 6-5 is an illustrative section.
6.11 Likely Permitting Requirements
Water resources are a critical component of the region's ecosystem as well as for human
use. As a result, many projects and activities that impact rivers and wetlands are
regulated by local, state, and federal agencies. The final permits applicable to a specific
project will be based upon the construction plans, methods of construction, area and
volume of disturbance, possible exclusions or waivers, and public interest. The permits
that are most likely to apply to small dam removal include but are not limited to the
following:
Likely Local Permitting Requirements
New Haven City Plan Department: Consultation with the New Haven City Plan
Department and the New Haven Engineering Department throughout the project
planning stages are necessary to ensure local support throughout the permitting and
construction phases.
Likely State Permitting Requirements
401 Water Quality Certificate: Under the Clean Water Act Section 401, a federal
agency cannot issue a permit or license for an activity that could result in discharge to
waters of the United States until the state or tribe (in this case, the State of
Connecticut) where the discharge would originate has granted or waived Section 401
certification. The State of Connecticut would make the decision to deny, certify, or
condition permits based in part on the proposed project’s consistency with water
quality standards as well as other appropriate requirements of state law.

JULY 2011 6-14
Dam Safety Permit: Prior to obtaining a permit for construction, repair or alteration of
a dam, dike or similar structure, detailed plans and specifications prepared and
certified by a professional engineer registered in Connecticut must be submitted to the
Dam Safety Section of the Inland Water Resources Division for review and approval.
As part of Public Act 93-428, permit applicants are required to publish notice of their
application and submit proof of same by providing the Department with a certified
copy of the notice as published in the newspaper. Before issuing a dam construction
permit, the Department must issue a Notice of Tentative Determination, which
provides the public with a detailed description of the proposed activity and an
opportunity to comment on the application or request a hearing. In a scenario in
which it is determined that emergency repair or removal of the dam is necessary to
protect public safety, the Dam Safety Program in Connecticut can streamline the
permitting process (including exemption from the Water Diversion Permit detailed
below) to expedite repair or removal of the dam.
Water Diversion Permit: This program, administered by the DEP Bureau of Water
Protection and Land Reuse's Inland Water Resources Division, regulates activities
which cause, allow or result in the withdrawal from, or the alteration, modification or
diminution of, the instantaneous flow of the waters of the state, which would include
partial dam removal at Pond Lily. When making a decision on a water diversion
permit application, the Department must consider those factors listed in the
authorizing statutes and regulations including, but not limited to, the environmental
effects of the diversion and whether the proposed diversion is: (1) necessary; (2)
consistent with long-range water resource management; (3) consistent with the state
plan of conservation and development adopted pursuant to part I of Chapter 297 of
the Connecticut General Statues; and (4) will not impair proper management and use
of the water resources of the State. Diversion Permit applications are reviewed by the
Department's Fisheries and Wildlife Divisions and the Natural Diversity Data Base
Staff and are forwarded to the CT Departments of Public Utility Control and Public
Health, Water Supplies Section.
Flood Management Certification: If the Pond Lily Dam Removal receives funding
from the State of Connecticut, the project must obtain Flood Management
Certification (FMC). The FMC program is administered by the Bureau of Water
Protection and Land Reuse's Inland Water Resources Division. It requires DEP
approval of a certification, or an exemption, for all State actions in or affecting
floodplains or natural or man-made storm drainage facilities. In making a decision to
approve or reject a state agency's flood management certification, the Department
must consider whether the proposed activity: is consistent with state standards and
criteria for preventing flood hazards to human life, health or property and with the
provisions of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and municipal floodplain
regulations; does not adversely affect fish populations or fish passage; and does not
promote intensive use and development of flood prone areas.

JULY 2011 6-17
Likely Federal Permitting Requirements
Section 404 Permit: Section 404 of the Clean Water Act regulates the discharge of
dredged, excavated, or fill material in wetlands, streams, rivers, and other U.S. waters.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is the federal agency authorized to issue Section
404 Permits for certain activities conducted in wetlands or other U.S. waters. In
general, to obtain a Section 404 permit, applicants must demonstrate that the discharge
of dredged or fill material would not significantly degrade the nation's waters and there
are no practicable alternatives less damaging to the aquatic environment. Applicants
should also describe steps taken to minimize impacts to water bodies and wetlands and
provide appropriate and practicable mitigation, such as restoring or creating wetlands,
for any remaining, unavoidable impacts. Permits will not be granted for proposals that
are found to be contrary to the public interest. Compliance with the Endangered
Species Act and/or Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act may also be
required before a Section 404 permit can be issued.

JULY 2011 6-18

Draft Alternatives Analysis July 2011

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DRAFT ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

POND LILY DAM REMOVAL

MILONE & MACBROOM, INC.

2.0 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

3.0 SEDIMENT ANALYSIS

5.0 HYDRAULIC ANALYSIS

6.0 ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

POND LILY DAM ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

Table 3-1 Estimated Sediment Volume................................................................................ 3-2

Table 4-1 West River Flood Discharges .............................................................................. 4-2

Table 5-1 Hydraulic Models Provided by FEMA ................................................................ 5-2

Figure 1-1 Location Plan ....................................................................................................... 1-2

Figure 2-1 Watershed Map .................................................................................................... 2-2

Figure 3-1 Sediment Types.................................................................................................... 3-3

Figure 6-1 Alternative #2....................................................................................................... 6-6

POND LILY DAM ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

Appendix A List of Resources

POND LILY DAM ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

Project Goals & Objectives

1. Restore the river habitat to a more natural environment.

POND LILY DAM ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

Work Completed to Date

Alternative #1 – Full Spillway Removal

Engineering & Ecological Considerations

POND LILY DAM ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

POND LILY DAM ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

POND LILY DAM ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

1.1 Project Background

1.2 Project Goals and Objectives

1. Restore the river habitat to a more natural environment.

POND LILY DAM ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

Pond Lily Dam Spillway

Virtual Earth via ESRI subscription service

Cheshire, Connecticut 06410

(203) 271-1773 Fax (203) 272-9733

New Haven, Connecticut www.miloneandmacbroom.com

Flood Study of Woodbridge Flats (Cardinal Engineering Associates, Inc., December,

POND LILY DAM ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

1.4 Current Phase Work Scope

 Existing Data Collection and Review

POND LILY DAM ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

2.1 The West River – An Overview

Percent of Percent Change

POND LILY DAM ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

Pond Lily Dam Contributing Drainage Basin

Pond Lily Dam

West River Watershed Boundary New Haven

Orange East Haven

POND LILY DAM ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

Pond Lily Dam

West River Watershed Boundary

Map By: SJB

Merritt Avenue Bridge

Regal Motel Bridge

Pond Lily Dam

East Ramsdell Street Bridge

Valley Street Bridge

Blake Street Bridge

The Pond Lily Dam extends

POND LILY DAM ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

POND LILY DAM ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

The following findings were made based on this dam inspection:

Existing Data Collection and Review

The rate of seepage increases or is highly turbid (brown water)

City of New Haven: 911