hudson river national estuarine research reserve vegetation 2005
TRANSCRIPT
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HUDSON RIVER
NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE
VEGETATION 2005
FINAL REPORT
to
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation/
Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve256 Norrie Point Way
Staatsburg, New York 12580
by
Cornell Institute for Resource Information Sciences
1015 Bradfield Hall
Ithaca, New York 14853
Funding for this effort was provided by:
US Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Grants: NA06NOS4200187 and NA05NOS4201096
March 2011
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Contents
Introduction 1
Acquisition of New Imagery 2
Base Map 3
Classification 3
Pre-Mapping Field Review 5
Aerial Photographic Interpretation 6
Data Transfer 7
Secondary Data Sources 7
Digitization 8
Data Review 8
Deliverables 9
Results 9
References 11
Other Resources 11
Acknowledgements 11Appendix a
Community types classification and descriptions a
Key indicators for interpretation of vegetation communities in the NYSDEC HRNERR. e
Key indicators for interpretation of vegetation communities in the NYSDEC HRNERR. (cont.) f
Metadata example g
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Figures
Figure 1: NYSDEC HRNERR site map. .. 2
Figure 2: Stockport Flats vegetation community change: 1991-2005. 16
Figure 3: Tivoli Bays vegetation community change: 1991-2005. .. 17
Figure 4: Iona Island vegetation community change 1991-2005. ... 18
Figure 5: Piermont Marsh vegetation community change: 1991-2005. . 19
Tables
Table 1: Aerial photographic inventory print selection details for
photographic enlargements. ... 3
Table 2: Hudson River NERR vegetation 2005: Community classifications .. 4
Table 3: Digital data attribute fields . 8
Table 4: Stockport Flats vegetation community summaries: 1991-2005. ... 12
Table 5: Tivoli Bays vegetation community summaries: 1991-2005. .. 13
Table 6: Iona Island vegetation community summaries: 1991-2005. .. 14
Table 7: Piermont Marsh vegetation community summaries: 1991-2005. . 15
Table 8: Stockport Flats vegetation community percent change. ... 20
Table 9: Tivoli Bays vegetation community percent change. .. 21
Table 10: Iona Island vegetation community percent change. .... 22
Table 11: Piermont Marsh vegetation community percent change. ... 23
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Project Participants
Institute for Resource Information Sciences
Stephen D. Smith Sr. Extension Assoc. Principal InvestigatorSusan B. Hoskins Sr. Extension Assoc.Eugenia Barnaba Sr. Extension Assoc.
Magdeline Laba Research Support Spec.
James Mastroianni Extension Support Spec.
NYSDEC Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve
Betsy Blair Reserve ManagerSarah H. Fernald Research Coordinator
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IntroductionThe Cornell University Institute for Resource Information Sciences (IRIS) was requested by the
NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)/Hudson River National Estuarine
Research Reserve (NYSDEC HRNERR), to inventory and map vegetation community types forthe four Reserve sites of Iona Island, Piermont March, Stockport Flats, and Tivoli Bays (Figure
1). The methodology used by IRIS in the 1997 mapping project, as documented in the final
report: Mapping the Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve Wetlands to MonitorChanges in Vegetation Community Type Coverage (IRIS, 1997), was followed for this effort.
There were two objectives in performing this mapping of plant communities: 1. Document
existing plant communities presence and distribution within each of the four reserve sites(Stockport Flats, Tivoli Bays, Iona Island, and Piermont Marsh); and 2. Document reserve site
changes in plant community composition.
The first objective required the acquisition of new imagery. Imagery was acquired on August
24, 2005 by Aerographics, Inc. of Bohemia, New York. High resolution stereo, true color
photographs were acquired with 60% forward lap and 30% side lap, at the nominal scale of1:14,400 under ideal conditions within two hours of low tide and clear atmospheric conditions.
Enlargements of selected photography were obtained at a scale of 1:2,400 prior to interpretation.
These enlargements served as base maps for the transfer of vegetation community boundaries
from the 9"x9" contact prints onto a 1:2,400 scale overlay.
The second objective required consistence of mapping criteria, methodology, and classification
schemes with previous years of NYSDEC HRNERR plant community mapping. Specifically,those plant community mapping efforts carried out in 1991 and 1997. The same classification
scheme used in 1997 was applied to this mapping effort.
Pre-mapping reconnaissance and field analysis of vegetation categories was undertaken during
the same season as the aerial photography was collected. When necessary, secondary data was
acquired to augment the decision-making of the airphoto interpreters. Once the 9"x9" aerialphotographs were delivered to IRIS, the aerial photo interpretation was begun. This processinvolved interpretation of stereo photographs onto acetate overlays affixed to the 9"x9" contact
prints. The boundary and vegetation community codes were then transferred to the overlays on
the 1:2,400 scale enlargements.
The 1:2,400 scale overlays were scanned and the resulting images brought into a geographic
information system (GIS) and geo-referenced. Once internal to the GIS the individual scanswere digitized into a single "shapefile" using "ArcScan". Review maps were generated at
1:2,400 and overlaid on the original as a quality control check. Any instance of review map line
not completely covering original overlay line was identified and corrected. After all polygon
boundaries were verified correct, each polygon was labeled with a numerical vegetation code.Another set of review maps was generated with polygon labels. Each review map was overlaid
on the original overlay and each label verified. Missing or incorrect labels were "flagged" and
corrections/additions made to the dataset. The final datasets with all boundary and labelcorrections were imported to ArcView 3.x for map output. The project sponsor reviewed draft
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photos are 1:2,400 scale (one inch is equal to 200 feet). The enlarged prints measure
approximately 30 x 40, and are un-rectified. Table 1 shows the specifics of each photograph
selected for enlargement.
The criteria used for choosing images for enlargement included: (1) complete coverage of study
area, including the NYSDEC survey markers; (2) limited glare; (3) limited distortion based uponrelationship of the study site to the center of the photograph; (4) coverage of an important marsh
component in a single photograph; and (5) consultations with NYSDEC HRNERR staff.
Table 1: Aerial photographic inventory print selection details for photographic
enlargements.
Site Photo Date Factor Final Size
Stockport Flats 4-65 7/21/2005 6.3x 30" x 40"
Stockport Flats 4-66 7/21/2005 6.3x 30" x 40"
Stockport Flats 4-67 7/21/2005 6.3x 30" x 40"
Stockport Flats 4-69 7/21/2005 6.2x 30" x 40"Stockport Flats 4-70 7/21/2005 6.3x 30" x 40"
Stockport Flats 4-71 7/21/2005 6.2x 30" x 40"
Tivoli Bays 7-27 7/21/2005 6.2x 30" x 45"
Tivoli Bays 7-29 7/21/2005 6.2x 30" x 45"
Iona Island 16-186 8/24/2005 6.2x 30" x 40"
Piermont Marsh 21-123 8/24/2005 6.4x 30" x 45"
Piermont Marsh 21-124 8/24/2005 6.3x 30" x 45"
Base MapThe base maps developed for each of the NYSDEC HRNERR sites in 1997 were used for this
mapping effort. The 1997 base maps were created specifically to provide a base for future
vegetation community mapping efforts. The substantial effort that went into the construction ofthe 1991 base maps is documented in the final report for the 1997 mapping effort (IRIS, 1997).
No changes to the base map layouts were required.
After development of the individual NYSDEC HRNERR site vegetation community datasets,each dataset was imported into the same ArcView 3.x projects used for the 1997 mapping.
Using the 1997 Arcview 3.x project files ensured continuity of map layouts between all three
years of data.
ClassificationVegetation Code Consolidation
The vegetation community mapping codes developed in 1997 were used for this mapping effort.
The steps involved in the development of these codes are explained below.
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In the 1991 project, more than 100 vegetation codes were used in the mapping process.
Early in the planning process for development of the 1997 database, the project sponsor
expressed a strong desire to significantly reduce the number. Working with the sponsor,a series of event began to determine what 1991 vegetation types could best be
incorporated into the desired categories for the 1997 study. This resulted in the 100+
items being consolidated into 20. Once decision-making for the consolidation wascompleted, IRIS plotted a complete set of vegetation community maps for the sponsor to
confirm the validity of the consolidated codes for each of the marshes (IRIS, 1997).
Refinements to the coding and the decisions were made where necessary (IRIS, 1997).
Vegetation Community Types
The vegetation community types (name and composition) were developed during the 1997
mapping effort (Table 2). For the specific methodology and related statistics involved in the
development of this classification scheme, consult the final report for the 1997 mapping effort(IRIS, 1997). For convenience, the classifications and descriptions are included in the Appendix.
Table 2: Hudson River NERR Vegetation 2005: Community classifications
Numerical code Vegetation Class Description Mapping Symbol
1 Railroad RR
2 Open Water/Tidal Channels OT
3 Unvegetated Flats UN
4 Vegetated Lower Intertidal VI
5 Panne PA
6 Typha angustifolia TA
7 Scirpus sp. SC
8 Lythrum salicaria/mix LS
9 Scirpus pungens SP
10 Phragmites australis FA
11 Salt Meadow SM
12 Wooded Swamp WS
13 Scrub/Shrub SS
14 Trapa natans TN
15 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation SAV
16 Acorus calamus/mix AC
17 Polygonum sp. PL
18 Spartina alterniflora SPA
19 Wrack Line WRA
20 Upland/Non-Wetland UP
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Pre-Mapping Field ReviewAn important factor in accurate photo interpretation of vegetation communities is the analysts
knowledge of the plant species included in the communities, general field conditions, and
conditions specific to the time the photographs are taken. Pre-mapping field review was planned
for all four marsh sites. One half day was spent at each marsh. The field work was designed to
visit as many of the 20 community classes as possible. Preparation for the field visit includedreview of the consolidated 20-category vegetation cover classification system. Because the
interpretation of the aerial photography was to be undertaken by the same individual aspreviously completed the 1997 survey, less preparation time/effort was needed. Aerial
photographs were brought into the field to correlate occurrences of plant species and existing
ground conditions with airphoto signatures. Ground photographs were taken to document plantcommunities.
Stockport Flats
Communities at Stockport Flats were visited on foot. Stockport Creek was viewed from therailroad bed. The height of the railroad grade above the water level afforded a good view of the
adjacent intertidal plant communities. The banding of vegetation (Typha angustifolia, Lythrumsalicaria, Phragmites australis)on the shore of Stockport Middle Ground Island was alsovisible. The extensive beds of Trapa natans (water chestnut) at Gays Point were viewed from
the railroad grade. Farther north, distinctive Phragmites australis(common reed) clones could be
observed form the railroad bed. The Scirpus pungens (chairmaker's bulrush) andLythrumsalicaria(purple loosestrife) communities along the Hudson River shoreline were documented.
Tivoli BaysTivoli Bay North was accessed by canoe. The tidal channel and associated vegetation
communities were observed, includingNuphar advena(spadderdock) within the Vegetated
Lower Intertidal class and Submerged Aquatic Vegetation in the channels. Tivoli Bay South was
observed from the railroad grade at the northern end of the Bay. The bay is almost completelycovered by Trapa natans(water chestnut) with the exception of intertidal species at the shallow
edges. The species associated with Scrub/shrub class were also visible.
Iona Island
The vegetation communities of Iona Island are almost all viewable on foot. The causeway,
railroad grade and rock outcrops of the island all provide access to the major vegetation
communities. Phragmites australis/Typha angustifolia (common reed/narrowleaf cattail)comprise most of the marsh. The tidal channels along the causeway exhibit Submerged Aquatic
Vegetation and Vegetated Lower Intertidal species such as Peltandra virginica (arrow arum) andPontederia cordata (pickerelweed).
Piermont Marsh
The unique communities of Piermont Marsh are reachable by boat. Spartina patens(saltmeadowcordgrass), Spartina alterniflora(smooth cordgrass), and the Panne classe are unique to
Piermont and were all observed in the field. The complex of Phragmites australis/Typha
angustifolia(common reed/narrowleaf cattail) communities was visible.
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Aerial Photographic InterpretationInterpretation of aerial photographs uses a standard process of indentifying objects in the
photographs by their spectral and spatial characteristics, categorizing them based upon a
predetermined classification system, and defining the spatial extent of the objects by delineating
their boundaries. In addition, mapping of vegetation community types also required a strong
knowledge of the ecology of the marshes, wetland plant morphology and estuary functions.
This project utilized the visual vocabulary of vegetation cover types and the methodology forboundary determination developed for the 1997 mapping effort (IRIS, 1997). The vocabulary is
described in terms of key indicators. They are color, texture, pattern, shadow, size, shape, and
landscape location. In the interpretation process, the analyst made a correlation between aerialphotographic signatures and ground conditions through viewing photographs, visiting the
marshes and consulting on a frequent basis with expert project collaborators. The classification
of objects into vegetation community types is based upon their dominant visual characteristics.
A vegetation community type polygon was defined by drawing a line at the boundary betweendifferent communities. When there was a distinct change in color, texture or other key indicator,
the edge was delineated by tracing. When there was a gradual change the delineation was madewhere the two vegetation community constituents appeared in equal quantity.
To prepare for photo interpretation, clear acetate was affixed to the enlarged aerial photographs
using drafting tape. Reference data such as ground control points and fixed landscape features(railroad bridge abutments and culverts) were transferred to the overlay. Vegetation community
boundaries were delineated directly on the clear acetate by enclosing an area in a polygon.
One of the first steps taken in delineating features was the mapping of the Hudson River
shoreline because it is clearly defined as the boundary between the waters edge and land area,
and it provided a frame of reference for subsequent mapping of various other features. Next
came the mapping of cover types whose key indicators describe distinct features easily, makingboundaries easy to identify and trace (ex: tidal channels, isolated Phragmites australis(common
reed) clusters and unvegetated flats.)
The color and pattern of Typha angustifolia(narrowleaf cattail)andAcorus calamus(sweet flag)
are example cover types that are difficult to differentiate on the enlargements; however, texture
and pattern are distinct and can be seen when viewed stereoscopically. As a result, more detailed
examination of photos was necessary in these instances. In the stereo view, Typha angustifolia(narrowleaf cattail)exhibits a smooth even surface.Acorus calamus(sweet flag) appears rough
in texture and finely divided in an angular pattern. This allowed for an accurate delineation
between these two cover types. This process of viewing stereo photographs and enlargements in
concert was integral to final interpretation, delineation and mapping of the four marshes.
During the 1997 mapping effort it was determined, in consultation with project sponsor, that theminimum mapping unit would be approximately 5.0 mm in diameter on the enlarged
photographs, representing a ground area of approximately 40 feet in diameter (0.03 acres).
However, some high contrast features smaller than the minimum were mapped. These same
mapping guidelines were used for the 2005 mapping effort.
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Data TransferFor all four marshes, the aerial photographic interpretation was manually recompiled to the
respective base maps. Manual recompilation is defined as the process of transferring interpreted
data from the 1:2,400 scale photo overlay to a 1:2,400 base map overly. To aid the transfer of
data as accurately as possible, reference points from the photo overlay are aligned with reference
points on the base map. Vegetation community types boundaries within the aligned referencepoints are redrawn on the base map overlay.
For all marshes, reference points included survey markers, bridge abutments, fixed landscape
features, culverts, hazard light islands, etc.
Secondary Data SourcesField visits, consultations and quantitative field sampling data provided essential secondary data
to supporting interpretive decision-making.
For accurate interpretation of vegetation community types in the Hudson River, knowledge ofthe plant species and field conditions were essential. In this regard, prior to field visits theclassification system was reviewed, characteristics of plant species included in the classes were
researched and products from previous mapping efforts and historic aerial photographs were
reviewed.
Consultations with local area experts provided background information on environmental
conditions. Understanding species distribution in the context of the entire Hudson River Estuary
is important to accurate interpretation. For example, salt marsh and Spartina species (cordgrass)are found only in the Piermont Marsh (southern most site). Trapa natans(water chestnut) is
found at the northern two marshes where water is less brackish.
It is equally important to be aware of local habitat conditions. The category Vegetated Lower
Intertidal can be dominated by a number of different plant species having very different
airphoto characteristics Nuphar advena(spadderdock), Peltandra virginica(arrow arum),Pontideria cordata(pickeralweed) but are always in a marsh location subject to tidal
inundation.
A single species response can also vary. For example,Nuphar advena(spadderdock) has large
leaves that extend well above the water level at low tide, however at high tide can be at the
surface or submerged. The leaves often collect suspended sediments and therefore appear tan or
brown instead of green.
The quantitative field sampling data was used extensively because it provided guidance relative
to cover type class definitions, distinctions between classes and refinement of line placement.For detailed description, see the section on classification.
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DigitizationAll of the vegetation community maps were manually digitized into Arc/Info. In all cases the
weed tolerance used was 0.05 and the grain tolerance was set at 0.3. All maps consisted of
polygon features only and were cleaned and built (edited) in Arc/Info for polygons. Registration
of each coverage for digitizing followed the same methodology: survey markers were used and
where necessary other fixed objects with known coordinates were used. Detailed information anddigitizing specifics are available at Cornell IRIS.
Completed digitized maps are plotted at the mapping scale (1:2,400) onto paper. The original
Mylar maps were then compared to the paper proof plots on a light table and examined on a line-
by-line basis for agreement. If the two lines (the original and the digitized) were more than0.5mm apart (less than 0.5mm is within mapping error), they were then edited until acceptable
agreement was reached.
All polygons in each marsh were attributed with three fields of information (Table 3).The fields are:
CODE this is a two digit numerical code used for in-house mapping;NAME this is a character field describing the vegetation communities (a more detaileddescription of the communities can be found in the section on Classification);
SYMBOL a two letter code abbreviation for the vegetation communities.
The "CODE, NAME, and SYMBOL" fields were based on 1997 and 1991 attribute table fields
"NUMER_CODE, COVER_NAME, and COVER_CODE" respectively. Field names were
changed for clarity purposes.
Table 3: Digital Data Attribute Fields
CODE NAME SYMBOL
1 Railroad RR
2 Open Water/Tidal Channels OT
3 Unvegetated Flats UN
Data ReviewThere was no accuracy assessment planned in the scope of work for either the Hudson River
NERR 1997 or Hudson River NERR 2005 vegetation mapping projects. The mapping of thevegetation communities involved two opportunities for verifying interpretation accuracy. The
first occurred after the initial mapping of the data onto the aerial photographic overlays. Field
visits were made to selected areas based on the interpreter's confidence level with theinterpretation. Only areas of concern were visited to verify interpretation. No standardized
selection process was used to select these areas. The second opportunity for verification
occurred after the preparation of the maps. The draft maps were delivered to the Reserve
Manager and reviewed at that time. Any identifiable errors were noted and changed prior to the
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final version. Any corrections or changes identified by the Reserve Manager as needed to
improve the draft maps were made prior to the final version.
Deliverables
Data developed for this project was delivered in digital and analog formats.
Digital data was developed in ArcGIS and delivered on CD. The digital database associated with
the map development and the vegetation mapping database was included. This database includesArcGIS shapefiles for each of the four NYSDEC HRNERR sites which contain vegetation
community type polygons with attributes and metadata, in both UTM Zone18 NAD 27 and UTM
Zone 18 NAD 83 projections. Also provided are ArcGIS map documents and ArcView project
files to assist in viewing the database.
A CD of the digital data was developed for distribution/archival purposes. This CD contained
"shapefiles" and "geodatabase" data, metadata, map documents compatible with ArcGISversions 9.1 - 10.0, data published to ArcReader format with associated "pmf" file. The CD also
included "pdf" files of the analog maps described below. The CD contained a user-friendly
interface for accessing, viewing, and unloading the data from the CD.
Analog data was delivered as two sets of printed maps at a scale of 1:2400 for each of the four
NYSDEC HRNERR sites: Stockport (4 sheets), Tivoli Bays (2 sheets), Iona Island (1 sheet), and
Piermont Marsh (1 sheet). The maps match the layout of the 1997 products and utilize the samebasemap data.
ResultsVegetation classification type areas have been summarized and the results are presented in tables
and charts for each of the four sites. The first set of table (Tables 4 - 7) show tabulation of areafor each class by year of inventory in square meters, hectares, and acres. The second set of
tables (Tables 8 - 11) show tabulation of area change for each class by inventory year cohort
(1997-2005, 1991-1997, and 1991-2005) in total hectares of change and as a percentage. A
graphic representation of the areas for each class by year of inventory in hectares is presented inFigures 2 -5.
Stockport Flats
Table 8 shows a substantial decrease in mapped SAV in 2005. This decrease does not appear tobe related to an encroachment by TN (Trapa natans- water chestnut). It may reflect a true
decrease or perhaps related to less than optimal low tide image collection. However, the
mapping of Vegetative Lower Intertidal (VI) showed virtually no variation between 1991-2005.It is unlikely that the interpretation of VI would not have been equally impacted by any tidal
influence. There is an increase in TN which often occurs in areas mapped as VI or Unvegetated
Flats (UN) in 1997. Although there appears to be a shift back and forth between TN and VI, the
gains/losses appear comparable. As elsewhere, TA (Typhia augustifolia- narrowleaf cattail) isexpanding showing a 6 hectare gain (28% increase) since 1997. A review of Figure 2 show only
two classes for which a trend might be suggested: Upland/Non-Wetland (UP) and AC (Acorus
calamus/mix - sweet flag). The UP class appears to be trending upward but much of this is
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related to an expansion of Stockport Flats mapping area in 1991. The AC trend is downward
trend with a 40% loss since 1991.
Tivoli Bays
As shown in Table 9, there are several classes that show a large percentage of change but many
of these involved very small areas. FA (Phragmites australis- common reed) shows an increaseof 40% but this reflects less than a hectare of additional FA. Scrub/Shrub (SS) and Unvegetated
Flats (UN) are two others which show large percentage, -34% and -11% respectively, which
involve relatively small extent changes. Both classes involve changes less than 2.7 hectares. TN
(Trapa natan- water chestnut) shows a modest increase of 3.34 hectares (3.6%). The greatestincrease in Tivoli Bays was exhibited by TA (Typha augustifolia- narrowleaf cattail). TA's
extent increase by almost 15 hectares. In contrast, LS (Lythrum salicaris/mix - purple
loosestrife) exhibited the greatest decrease with a loss of -35% or 10.5 hectares.
Iona Island
Reviewing community type summaries (Table 10) for 1997 and 2005 mapping, three classes
showed significant changes in total extent: Reviewing community type summaries (Table 3) for1997 and 2005 mapping, three classes showed significant changes in total extent: OT - Open
Water/Tidal Channels (5.92 ha), TA - Typha augustifolia(-10.88 ha), and FA - Phragmites
australis(11.32 ha). These changes represent a 55% gain, 55% loss, and 38% gain respectively.The changes in TA (Typha augustifolia- narrowleaf cattail) and FA ( Phragmities australis-
common reed) are consistent with the overall trend from 1991-2005 as shown by Figure 1. The
OT increase is largely due to a single area previously mapped as Submerged Aquatic Vegetation(SAV) in 1991. This change in class would have resulted in a similar reduction in SAV except
that increases in SAV occurred in 2005 along the eastern edge of Iona Island making up almost
all the loss.
Piermont Marsh
The community type summaries (Table 11) identify four community types that showed
significant changes in total extent for the period 1997-2005: SC - Scirpus sp.(-1.51 ha), SM -
Salt Meadow (-1.04ha), SPA - Spartina alterniflora(-2.30 ha), and WRA - Wrack Line (-0.65
ha). These changes correspond to a -36%, -39%, -82% and -53% loss respectively. The biggestclass loss in terms area and percentage is Spartina alterniflora(smooth cordgrass). This class
occurs along the shoreline in Piermont and its presence is very susceptible to shoreline impacts.
It is unclear if this loss is part of an ongoing trend because this class was not mapped in Piermontduring the 1991 survey. The losses in the SC (Scirpus sp.- bulrush) and SM (Spartina patens-
saltmeadow cordgrass) classes appear to be directly related to expansion of FA (Phragmites
australis- common reed) and TA (Typha augustifolia- narrowleaf cattail) areas. One of thelargest percentages of loss is within the Wrack Line class but it represents less than 1 hectare of
extent. The presence of Wrack Line is extremely dependent on storm events and its
identification becomes more difficult as other plant communities have time to encroach.
Therefore, fluctuations in this class are not uncommon.
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ReferencesIRIS, 1997. Mapping the Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve Wetlands to
Monitor Changes in Vegetation Community Type Coverage 1997. Cornell Institute for Resource
Information Systems, Final Report to NYSDEC HRNERR, Ithaca, NY, March 2005.
Other ResourcesIRIS, 2007a. Hudson River Estuary Submerged Aquatic Vegetation 2007. Cornell Institute forResource Information Sciences, Final Report to NYSDEC HRNERR, Ithaca, NY 2011.
IRIS, 2007b. Hudson River Estuary Tidal Wetlands 2007, Cornell Institute for ResourceInformation Systems, Final Report to NYSDEC HRNERR, Ithaca, NY, March 2011.
Limburg, K., Moran, M., & McDowell, W., 1986. The Hudson River Ecosystem. New York,
NY, Springer-Verlag.
Neider, W. C., Hoskins, S. B., Smith, S. D., & Findlay, S. E., 2009. Management Distributionand Spatial Change of Hudson River Estuary Submerged Aquatic Vegetation: Implications forCoastal Management and Natural Resource Protection. In X. Yang (Ed.),Remote Sensing and
Geospatial Technologies for Coastal Ecosystem Assessment and, Lecture Notes in
Geoinformation and Cartography(ed., pp. Chapter 11). Berlin Heidelberg, Germany: Springer-Verlag.
Tiner, Ralph W., 2009. Field Guide to Tidal Wetland Plants of the Northeastern United Statesand Neighboring Canada. Amherst, MA, Univ. of Mass. Press, ISBN 978-1-55849-667-5.
AcknowledgementsThe work presented in this report has been supported by the Hudson River National Estuarine
Research Reserve, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Hudson River
Estuary Program, U.S. Department of Commerce, and the National Oceanic and AtmosphericAdministration.
Grateful appreciation to the following individuals who contributed to the success of this project:Fran Dunwell, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Hudson River
Estuary Program; Eugenia M. Barnaba, Cornell University; John Ladd, New York State
Department of Environmental Conservation; and Helen Bustamante, Hudson River National
Estuarine Research Reserve.
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Table 4. Stockport Flats vegetation community summaries: 1991-2005.
Code Name Symbol Sq. Meters Hectares Acres Sq. Meters Hectares Acres Sq. Meters Hectares Ac
1 Railroad RR 156957.65 15.70 38.79 196455.32 19.65 48.55 189758.64 18.98 46
2 Open Water/Tidal Channels OT 129928.39 12.99 32.11 95648.36 9.56 23.64 104060.88 10.41 25
3 Unvegetated Flats UN 248131.58 24.81 61.31 419209.23 41.92 103.59 296309.37 29.63 73
4 Vegetated Lower Intertidal VI 375789.89 37.58 92.86 371616.98 37.16 91.83 368434.90 36.84 91
5 Panne PA 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
6 Typha angustifolia TA 242900.26 24.29 60.02 224828.51 22.48 55.56 287387.85 28.74 71
7 Scirpus sp. SC 0.00 0.00 0.00 7371.84 0.74 1.82 9107.23 0.91 2
8 Lythrum salicaria /mix LS 166921.30 16.69 41.25 218626.02 21.86 54.02 153783.70 15.38 38
9 Scirpus pungens SP 16219.38 1.62 4.01 42694.75 4.27 10.55 8176.31 0.82 2
10 Phragmites australis FA 20955.57 2.10 5.18 87232.48 8.72 21.56 116018.55 11.60 28
11 Salt Meadow SM 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
12 Wooded Swamp WS 25815.76 2.58 6.38 86774.83 8.68 21.44 68594.60 6.86 16
13 Scrub/Shrub SS 77708.98 7.77 19.20 143628.66 14.36 35.49 105032.13 10.50 25
14 Trapa natans TN 760347.92 76.03 187.89 629771.21 62.98 155.62 733838.83 73.38 181
15 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation SAV 367553.81 36.76 90.82 632706.87 63.27 156.35 450425.07 45.04 111
16 Acorus calamus /mix AC 113291.15 11.33 27.99 105769.58 10.58 26.14 67158.32 6.72 16
17 Polygonum sp. PL 22760.73 2.28 5.62 44643.41 4.46 11.03 36856.07 3.69 9
18 Spartina alterniflora SPA 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
19 Wrack Line WRA 0.00 0.00 0.00 588.41 0.06 0.15 150.05 0.02 0
20 Upland/Non-Wetland UP 1634864.34 163.49 403.98 2126373.12 212.64 525.44 2211767.90 221.18 546Total 4360146.70 436.01 1077.42 5433939.59 543.39 1342.76 5206860.38 520.69 1286
Hudson Ri ver NERR Vegetation 2005 Cl assi fication Stockport 1991 Stockport 1997 Stockport 2005
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Table 5. Tivoli Bays vegetation community summaries: 1991-2005.
Code Name Symbol Sq. Meters Hectares Acres Sq. Meters Hectares Acres Sq. Meters Hectares Ac
1 Railroad RR 157318.05 15.73 38.87 157199.47 15.72 38.84 155714.06 15.57 38
2 Open Water/Tidal Channels OT 216847.80 21.68 53.58 165229.42 16.52 40.83 152017.28 15.20 37
3 Unvegetated Flats UN 0.00 0.00 0.00 78579.61 7.86 19.42 51765.80 5.18 12
4 Vegetated Lower Intertidal VI 354475.36 35.45 87.59 367517.49 36.75 90.82 359858.85 35.99 885 Panne PA 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
6 Typha angustifolia TA 820677.28 82.07 202.79 753962.25 75.40 186.31 903155.69 90.32 223
7 Scirpus sp. SC 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
8 Lythrum salicaria /mix LS 305822.63 30.58 75.57 298272.13 29.83 73.70 193262.55 19.33 47
9 Scirpus pungens SP 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
10 Phragmites australis FA 8275.26 0.83 2.04 18850.47 1.89 4.66 26451.91 2.65 6
11 Salt Meadow SM 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
12 Wooded Swamp WS 146869.68 14.69 36.29 147794.22 14.78 36.52 154349.91 15.43 38
13 Scrub/Shrub SS 50134.41 5.01 12.39 95786.40 9.58 23.67 84587.95 8.46 20
14 Trapa natans TN 970342.90 97.03 239.78 931756.60 93.18 230.24 965176.33 96.52 238
15 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation SAV 198444.37 19.84 49.04 479874.01 47.99 118.58 469083.56 46.91 115
16 Acorus calamus /mix AC 5479.82 0.55 1.35 13601.58 1.36 3.36 12856.01 1.29 3
17 Polygonum sp. PL 10882.23 1.09 2.69 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
18 Spartina alterniflora SPA 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
19 Wrack Line WRA 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 020 Upland/Non-Wetland UP 209335.70 20.93 51.73 197850.27 19.79 48.89 183418.01 18.34 45
Total 3454905.48 345.49 853.73 3706273.92 370.63 915.84 3711697.89 371.17 917
Hudson River NERR Vegetation 2005 Classi fication Tivoli 1997 Tivol i 2005Tivoli 1991
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Table 6. Iona Island vegetation community summaries: 1991-2005.
Code Name Symbol Sq. Meters Hectares Acres Sq. Meters Hectares Acres Sq. Meters Hectares Ac
1 Railroad RR 53683.84 5.37 13.27 52234.21 5.22 12.91 51203.10 5.12 12
2 Open Water/Tidal Channels OT 109863.45 10.99 27.15 106929.38 10.69 26.42 166114.44 16.61 41
3 Unvegetated Flats UN 26497.99 2.65 6.55 123666.96 12.37 30.56 125694.70 12.57 31
4 Vegetated Lower Intertidal VI 1103.19 0.11 0.27 9514.52 0.95 2.35 7574.07 0.76 1
5 Panne PA 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
6 Typha angustifolia TA 344192.70 34.42 85.05 197498.06 19.75 48.80 88695.80 8.87 21
7 Scirpus sp. SC 0.00 0.00 0.00 10869.91 1.09 2.69 92.59 0.01 0
8 Lythrum salicaria /mix LS 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
9 Scirpus pungens SP 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
10 Phragmites australis FA 159531.29 15.95 39.42 295766.66 29.58 73.09 409044.70 40.90 101
11 Salt Meadow SM 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
12 Wooded Swamp WS 16684.89 1.67 4.12 18471.39 1.85 4.56 12167.26 1.22 3
13 Scrub/Shrub SS 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1021.83 0.10 0
14 Trapa natans TN 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
15 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation SAV 297654.17 29.77 73.55 195633.93 19.56 48.34 187256.03 18.73 46
16 Acorus calamus /mix AC 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 665.38 0.07 0
17 Polygonum sp. PL 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
18 Spartina alterniflora SPA 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
19 Wrack Line WRA 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
20 Upland/Non-Wetland UP 636387.29 63.64 157.25 635013.81 63.50 156.92 635927.50 63.59 157
Total 1645598.82 164.56 406.64 1645598.81 164.56 406.64 1685457.38 168.55 416
Iona 1991 Iona 1997 Iona 2005Hudson River NERR Vegetation 2005 Classification
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Table 7. Piermont Marsh vegetation community summaries: 1991-2005.
Code Name Symbol Sq. Meters Hectares Acres Sq. Meters Hectares Acres Sq. Meters Hectares Ac
1 Railroad RR 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
2 Open Water/Tidal Channels OT 51063.94 5.11 12.62 41756.30 4.18 10.32 40727.76 4.07 10
3 Unvegetated Flats UN 29273.24 2.93 7.23 25991.84 2.60 6.42 23045.85 2.30 5
4 Vegetated Lower Intertidal VI 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 646.76 0.06 0
5 Panne PA 2572.67 0.26 0.64 6393.11 0.64 1.58 8039.69 0.80 1
6 Typha angustifolia TA 124420.92 12.44 30.75 81174.69 8.12 20.06 93437.27 9.34 23
7 Scirpus sp. SC 42762.28 4.28 10.57 41778.61 4.18 10.32 26700.00 2.67 6
8 Lythrum salicaria /mix LS 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
9 Scirpus pungens SP 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
10 Phragmites australis FA 882514.56 88.25 218.07 875434.11 87.54 216.32 884027.31 88.40 218
11 Salt Meadow SM 33489.42 3.35 8.28 25960.69 2.60 6.42 15643.30 1.56 3
12 Wooded Swamp WS 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 389.78 0.04 0
13 Scrub/Shrub SS 894.99 0.09 0.22 0.00 0.00 0.00 590.37 0.06 0
14 Trapa natans TN 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
15 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation SAV 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
16 Acorus calamus /mix AC 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
17 Polygonum sp. PL 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0
18 Spartina alterniflora SPA 0.00 0.00 0.00 28123.41 2.81 6.95 5143.18 0.51 1
19 Wrack Line WRA 4969.04 0.50 1.23 12231.63 1.22 3.02 5689.07 0.57 1
20 Upland/Non-Wetland UP 242886.98 24.29 60.02 242921.54 24.29 60.03 260927.90 26.09 64
Total 1414848.04 141.48 349.62 1381765.91 138.18 341.44 1365008.23 136.50 337
Piermont 1991 Piermont 1997 Piermont 2005Hudson River NERR Vegetation 2005 Classification
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Figure 3. Tivoli Bays vegetation community change: 1991-2005.
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
1991 1997 2005
Tivoli Bays
Hectare
s
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Figure 4. Iona Island vegetation community change: 1991-2005.
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
1991 1997 2005
Iona Island
Hectare
s
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Figure 5. Piermont Marsh vegetation community change: 1991-2005.
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Table 8. Stockport Flats vegetation community percent change.
Code Name Symbol Hectares Percent Hectares Percent Hectares Percent
1 Railroad RR 3.95 25.16 -0.67 -3.41 3.28 20.90
2 Open Water/Tidal Channels OT -3.43 -26.38 0.84 8.80 -2.59 -19.913 Unvegetated Flats UN 17.11 68.95 -12.29 -29.32 4.82 19.42
4 Vegetated Lower Intertidal VI -0.42 -1.11 -0.32 -0.86 -0.74 -1.96
5 Panne PA 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
6 Typha angustifolia TA -1.81 -7.44 6.26 27.83 4.45 18.32
7 Scirpus sp. SC 0.74 na 0.17 23.54 0.91 na
8 Lythrum salicaria /mix LS 5.17 30.98 -6.48 -29.66 -1.31 -7.87
9 Scirpus pungens SP 2.65 163.23 -3.45 -80.85 -0.80 -49.59
10 Phragmites australis FA 6.63 316.27 2.88 33.00 9.51 453.64
11 Salt Meadow SM 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
12 Wooded Swamp WS 6.10 236.13 -1.82 -20.95 4.28 165.71
13 Scrub/Shrub SS 6.59 84.83 -3.86 -26.87 2.73 35.16
14 Trapa natans TN -13.06 -17.17 10.41 16.52 -2.65 -3.49
15 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation SAV 26.52 72.14 -18.23 -28.81 8.29 22.55
16 Acorus calamus /mix AC -0.75 -6.64 -3.86 -36.51 -4.61 -40.72
17 Polygonum sp. PL 2.19 96.14 -0.78 -17.44 1.41 61.93
18 Spartina alterniflora SPA 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
19 Wrack Line WRA 0.06 na -0.04 -74.50 0.02 na
20 Upland/Non-Wetland UP 49.15 30.06 8.54 4.02 57.69 35.29
Stockport Change 1991-20051997-20051991-1997
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Table 9. Tivoli Bays vegetation community percent change.
Code Name Symbol Hectares Percent Hectares Percent Hectares Percent
1 Railroad RR -0.01 -0.08 -0.15 -0.94 -0.16 -1.02
2 Open Water/Tidal Channels OT -5.16 -23.80 -1.32 -8.00 -6.48 -29.90
3 Unvegetated Flats UN 7.86 na -2.68 -34.12 5.18 na
4 Vegetated Lower Intertidal VI 1.30 3.68 -0.77 -2.08 0.54 1.52
5 Panne PA 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
6 Typha angustifolia TA -6.67 -8.13 14.92 19.79 8.25 10.05
7 Scirpus sp. SC 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
8 Lythrum salicaria /mix LS -0.76 -2.47 -10.50 -35.21 -11.26 -36.81
9 Scirpus pungens SP 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
10 Phragmites australis FA 1.06 127.79 0.76 40.32 1.82 219.65
11 Salt Meadow SM 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
12 Wooded Swamp WS 0.09 0.63 0.66 4.44 0.75 5.09
13 Scrub/Shrub SS 4.57 91.06 -1.12 -11.69 3.45 68.72
14 Trapa natans TN -3.86 -3.98 3.34 3.59 -0.52 -0.53
15 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation SAV 28.14 141.82 -1.08 -2.25 27.06 136.38
16 Acorus calamus /mix AC 0.81 148.21 -0.07 -5.48 0.74 134.61
17 Polygonum sp. PL -1.09 -100.00 0.00 0.00 -1.09 -100.00
18 Spartina alterniflora SPA 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
19 Wrack Line WRA 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
20 Upland/Non-Wetland UP -1.15 -5.49 -1.44 -7.29 -2.59 -12.38
Tivoli Change 1991-20051997-20051991-1997
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Table 10. Iona Island vegetation community percent change.
Code Name Symbol Hectares Percent Hectares Percent Hectares Percent
1 Railroad RR -0.14 -2.70 -0.10 -1.97 -0.25 -4.62
2 Open Water/Tidal Channels OT -0.29 -2.67 5.92 55.35 5.63 51.20
3 Unvegetated Flats UN 9.72 366.70 0.20 1.64 9.92 374.36
4 Vegetated Lower Intertidal VI 0.84 762.45 -0.19 -20.39 0.65 586.56
5 Panne PA 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
6 Typha angustifolia TA -14.67 -42.62 -10.88 -55.09 -25.55 -74.23
7 Scirpus sp. SC 1.09 na -1.08 -99.15 0.01 na
8 Lythrum salicaria /mix LS 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
9 Scirpus pungens SP 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
10 Phragmites australis FA 13.62 85.40 11.33 38.30 24.95 156.40
11 Salt Meadow SM 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
12 Wooded Swamp WS 0.18 10.71 -0.63 -34.13 -0.45 -27.08
13 Scrub/Shrub SS 0.00 0.00 0.10 na 0.10 na
14 Trapa natans TN 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
15 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation SAV -10.20 -34.27 -0.84 -4.28 -11.04 -37.09
16 Acorus calamus /mix AC 0.00 0.00 0.07 na 0.07 na
17 Polygonum sp. PL 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.0018 Spartina alterniflora SPA 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
19 Wrack Line WRA 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
20 Upland/Non-Wetland UP -0.14 -0.22 0.09 0.14 -0.05 -0.07
1991-20051997-2005Iona Change 1991-1997
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Table 11. Piermont Marsh vegetation community percent change.
Code Name Symbol Hectares Percent Hectares Percent Hectares Percent
1 Railroad RR 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
2 Open Water/Tidal Channels OT -0.93 -18.23 -0.10 -2.46 -1.03 -20.24
3 Unvegetated Flats UN -0.33 -11.21 -0.29 -11.33 -0.62 -21.27
4 Vegetated Lower Intertidal VI 0.00 0.00 0.06 na 0.06 na
5 Panne PA 0.38 148.50 0.16 25.76 0.55 212.50
6 Typha angustifolia TA -4.32 -34.76 1.23 15.11 -3.10 -24.90
7 Scirpus sp. SC -0.10 -2.30 -1.51 -36.09 -1.61 -37.56
8 Lythrum salicaria /mix LS 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
9 Scirpus pungens SP 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
10 Phragmites australis FA -0.71 -0.80 0.86 0.98 0.15 0.17
11 Salt Meadow SM -0.75 -22.48 -1.03 -39.74 -1.78 -53.29
12 Wooded Swamp WS 0.00 0.00 0.04 na 0.04 na
13 Scrub/Shrub SS -0.09 -100.00 0.06 0.00 -0.03 -34.04
14 Trapa natans TN 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
15 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation SAV 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
16 Acorus calamus /mix AC 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
17 Polygonum sp. PL 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.0018 Spartina alterniflora SPA 2.81 0.00 -2.30 -81.71 0.51 na
19 Wrack Line WRA 0.73 146.16 -0.65 -53.49 0.07 14.49
20 Upland/Non-Wetland UP 0.00 0.01 1.80 7.41 1.80 7.43
Piermont Change 1991-20051991-1997 1997-2005
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Appendix
Community types classification and descriptions
Railroad (RR) community occurs in Stockport Flats and Tivoli Bays in gravel or dry
substrate (disturbed areas) along railroad tracks at an elevation somewhat higher than thatof the marsh. Species present may include giant ragweed(Ambrosia trifida), ailanthus
(Ailanthus altissima), and aster (Aster sp.). This type was not sampled in 1991 or 1998.
Open Water/Tidal Channels (OT)occur in or along Piermont Marsh, Iona Island, TivoliBays and Stockport Flats in areas that are very frequently if not always flooded. We did
not sample this type in 1998.
Unvegetated Flats (UN) areas are found in Iona Island, Piermont Marsh, Stockport Flats
and Tivoli Bays in mudflats along shores of tidal creeks or the river in both brackish and
freshwater tidal marshes. No species of plant is present.
Vegetated Lower Intertidal (VI) is found on periodically flooded sandflats and mudflats
in brackish and freshwater tidal marshes such as Iona Island, Stockport Flats and Tivoli
South Bay. It is dominated by spatterdock (Nuphar advena) in association withpickerelweed (Pontederia cordata), softstem bulrush (Scirpus tabernaemontanii), wild
rice (Zizania aquatic),broadleaf arrowhead (Sagittaria latiflolia), arrow arum (Peltandra
virginica), giant duckweed (Sprirodela polyrhiza), water chestnut (Trapa natans), riverbulrush (Scirpus fluviatilis), knotweed (Polygonum sp.), threesquare bulrush (Scirpus
pungens), narrowleaf cattail (Typha angustifolia), clasping-leaf pondweed (Potamogeton
perfoliatus), Eurasian water-milfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum), arrowhead (Sagittaria sp.),
hooded arrowhead (Sagittaria calycina), and broadleaf cattail (Typha latifolia).
Panne (PA) occurs at Piermont Marsh and if often found in high and low salt marshes. Itis a shallow depression with poor drainage and with or without standing water. Vegetation
may or may not be present.
Typha angustifolia(TA) occurs in brackish and freshwater tidal marshes such asPiermont, Tivoli North and South Bays, Iona Island and Stockport Flats. It is dominated
by narrowleaf cattail (Typha angustifolia) in association with arrow arum (Peltandra
virgnica),purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria),jewelweed (Impatiens capensis),common reed (Phragmites australis), sweet flag (Acorus calamis), common marshmallow
(Althaea officinalis), river bulrush (Scirpus flulviatilis), broadleaf arrowhead (Sagittarialatifiolia), knotweed (Polygonum sp.), hibiscus (Hibiscus moscheutos), marsh fern(Thelyptris palustris), pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata), bulrush (Scirpus sp.), willow
(Salix sp.), giant ragweed (Ambrosia trifida), iris (Iris sp.), softstem bulrush (Scirpus
tabernaemontanii), saltmeadow cordgrass (Spartina patens), rice cutgrass (Leersiaoryzoides), spatterdock (Nuphar advena,), Canadian clearweed (Pilea pumila), broadfruitburweed (Sparganium eurycarpum), wild rice (Zizania aquatica), smallspike false nettle
(Boehmeria cylindrical), bindweed (Convolvulus sp.), saltgrass (Distichlis spicata), water
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horsetail (Equisetum fluviatilis), trumpetweed (Eupatoriadelphis fistulosus), mint (Mentha
sp.), fern (Onoclea sensibilis), goldenclub (Orontium aquaticum), reed canarygrass
(Phalaris arundinacea), arrowhead (Sagittaria sp.), threesquare bulrush (Scirpuspungens), giant duckweed (Spirodela polyrhiza), water chestnut (Trapa natans), and elms
(UlmusI sp.). Broadleaf cattails (Typha latifolia and Typha glauca) are included in this
category.
Scirpus sp. (SC) (bulrush) occurs in the sandflats of freshwater tidal marshes at Iona
Island, Piermont and Stockport Flats. The dominant species is threesquare bulrush
(Scirpus americanus). Associated species includecommon reed (Phragmites australis),narrowleaf cattail (Typha angustifolia), saltgrass (Distichlis spicata), hibiscus (Hibiscus
moscheutos), bulrush (Scirpus sp.), river bulrush (Scirpus flulviatilis), softstem bulrush
(Scirpus tabernaemontanii), saltmeadow cordgrass (Spartina patens), marsh fern(Thelyptris palustris), common marshmallow (Althaea officinalis), saltgrass (Distichlis
spicata), arrow arum (Peltandra virgnica), wild rice (Zizania aquatica), jewelweed
(Impatiens capensis), purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), broadleaf arrowhead
(Sagittaria latifiolia), big cordgrass (Spartina cynosuroides), smallspike false nettle(Boehmeria cylindrical), fern (Onoclea sensibilis), knotweed (Polygonum sp.),
pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata), chairmaker's bulrush (Scirpus pungens), sweet flag
(Acorus calamis), coontail (Ceratophyllum demersum), trumpetweed (Eupatoriadelphisfistulosus), bedstraw (Galiumsp.), iris (Irissp.), rice cutgrass (Leersia oryzoides),
goldenclub (Orontium aquaticum), Canadian clearweed (Pilea pumila), arrowhead
(Sagittaria sp.), hooded arrowhead (Sagittaria calycina), threadleaf arrowhead (Sagittariasubulata), smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora), and giant duckweed (Spirodela
polyrhiza).
Lythrum salicaria/mix (LS) (purple loosestrife)occurs in the low elevation zone
bordering mudflats or open water and the higher elevation zone of the freshwater tidal
marsh at Tivoli North and South Bays and Stockport Flats. The species composition ofthis community is approximately 50%Lythrum salicaria(communities of 50% Lythrum
salicariaand 50% Typha angustifoliaare categorized asLythrum salicaria/mix due to
associated species). Associated species include sweet flag (Acorus calamis),trumpetweed(Eupatoriadelphis fistulosus), jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), iris (Iris sp.),arrow arum
(Peltandra virgnica),broadleaf arrowhead (Sagittaria latifiolia), chairmaker's bulrush
(Scirpus pungens), narrowleaf cattail (Typha angustifolia), willow (Salix sp.), bindweed(Convolvulus sp.), rice cutgrass (Leersia oryzoides), fern (Onoclea sensibilis), reed
canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea),knotweed (Polygonum sp.), river bulrush (Scirpus
flulviatilis), broadfruit bur-weed (Sparganium eurycarpum), maple (Acer sp.),creepingbentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera), giant ragweed (Ambrosia trifida), beggarticks (Bidens
sp.), smallspike false nettle (Boehmeria cylindrical), ash (Fraxinus sp.), heartleaf plantain(Plantago cordata),pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata),arrowhead (Sagittaria sp.),marsh
skullcap (Scutellaria galericulata), canada germander (Teucrium canadense),elm (Ulmus
sp.), and wild rice (Zizania aquatic).
Scirpus pungens(SP) (chairmaker's bulrush) occurs on the sandflats of a freshwater tidalmarsh at Stockport Flats. The vegetation composition is dominated by chairmaker's
bulrush (Scirpuspungens) with wild rice (Zizania aquatic).
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Phragmites australis(FA)(common reed)is found in the highest elevation zone of the
freshwater tidal marshes at Iona Island, Piermont, Tivoli Bays and Stockport Flats. Thevegetation is dominated by common reed (Phragmites australis) in association with
narrowleaf cattail (Typha angustifolia), arrow arum (Peltandra virgnica),purple
loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), bulrush (Scirpus sp.), jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), bigcordgrass (Spartina cynosuroides), marsh fern (Thelyptris palustris), sweet flag (Acorus
calamis), saltmeadow cordgrass (Spartina patens), common marshmallow (Althaea
officinalis), treesquare (Scirpus americanus), smallspike false nettle (Boehmeria
cylindrical), trumpetweed (Eupatoriadelphis fistulosus), saltgrass (Distichlis spicata),hibiscus (Hibiscus moscheutos), Canadian clearweed (Pilea pumila), chairmaker's bulrush
(Scirpus pungens), marsh skullcap (Scutellaria galericulata), fern (Onoclea sensibilis),
spotted water hemlock (Cicuta maculate), gray dogwood (Cornus racemosa), riverbulrush (Scirpus flulviatilis), smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora), and Alexander's
rock aster (Vitus).
Salt Meadow (SM) is found in the Piermont high salt marsh. It is dominated bysaltmeadow cordgrass (Spartina patens). Saltgrass (Distichlis spicata), common reed
(Phragmites australis), common marshmallow (Althaea officinalis), bulrush (Scirpus sp.),
narrowleaf cattail (Typha angustifolia), treesquare (Scirpus americanus), and big cordgrass(Spartina cynosuroides) are also fairly common species.
Wooded Swamp (WS)is characteristic of lowlands along large river systems with gentleslope gradients coupled with tidal influence, i.e.: southwest border of Iona Island Marsh.
Eastern skunk cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus), is dominant and is associated with
smallspike false nettle (Boehmeria cylindrical), jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), willow(Salix sp.), tuliptree (Liriodendron tulipifera), swamp white oak (Quercus bicolor), elms
(UlmusI sp.), marsh skullcap (Scutellaria galericulata), bulrush (Scirpus sp.), marsh fern
(Thelyptris palustris), sweet flag (Acorus calamis), rice cutgrass (Leersia oryzoides), fern(Onoclea sensibilis), arrow arum (Peltandra virgnica), narrowleaf cattail (Typha
angustifolia), boxelder (Acer negundo), red maple (Acer rebrum),Japanese barberry
(Berberis thunbergii), sweet birch (Betula lenta), shagbark hickory (Carya ovate),
mockernut hickory (Carya tomentosa), white ash (Fraxinus americanus), white oak(Quercus alba), chestnut oak (Quercus prinus), northern red oak (Quercus rubra), black
oak (Quercus velutina), blackberry (Rubus angustifolium), eastern hemlock (Tsuga
canadense), black raspberry (Rubus occidentalis), and lowbush blueberry (Vacciniumangustifolium).The height of the canopy may be as much as 60 to 90 feet and the
difference in height between the canopy and the understory is quite large.
Scrub/Shrub (SS) is generally found in areas of higher elevation in freshwater marshes
such as Tivoli North Bay and Stockport Flats. The vegetation is dominated by willow
species (Salix sp.) in association with arrow arum (Peltandra virgnica), purple loosestrife
(Lythrum salicaria), narrowleaf cattail (Typha angustifolia), jewelweed (Impatienscapensis), water horsetail (Equisetum fluviatilis), trumpetweed (Eupatoriadelphis
fistulosus), iris (Iris sp.), fern (Onoclea sensibilis), knotweed (Polygonum sp.), broadleaf
arrowhead (Sagittaria latifiolia), river bulrush (Scirpus flulviatilis), white ash (Fraxinus
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americanus), maple (Acersp.), sycamore (Platanussp.), and groundnut (Apios
Americana). The height of the canopy is approximately 10-12 feet or more.
Trapa natans (TN) (water chestnut)is found in open water/tidal channels at Tivoli Bays
and Stockport Flats. Water chestnut (Trapa natans) is dominant is association with giant
duckweed (Spirodela polyrhiza), Eurasian water-milfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum), andspatterdock (Nuphar advena).
Submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) occurs at Tivoli Bays, Iona Island and Stockport
Flats. It is a community of continuously flooded substrates with rooted aquatic vegetation.It may be found in tidal channels or close to the shore of the Hudson River. Species
present may include water celery (Vallisneria americana), Eurasian water-milfoil
(Myriophyllum spicatum), coontail (Ceratophyllum demersum), western waterweed(Elodea muttallii), naiads (Najassp.), andclasping-leaf pondweed (Potamogeton
perfoliatus). Only two plots of this type were sampled in 1998. Eurasian water-milfoil
(Myriophyllum spicatum) was the only plant observed at these plots in Iona Island Marsh.
Acorus calamus/mix (AC)(sweet flag) occurs in two zones of the freshwater tidal
marshes at Tivoli North Bay and Stockport Flats: the low elevation area bordering
mudflats or open water and a higher elevation. The vegetation is dominated by sweet flag(Acorus calamis). Other species commonly found occurring in this type include arrow
arum (Peltandra virgnica), river bulrush (Scirpus flulviatilis), narrowleaf cattail (Typha
angustifolia), jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria),broadleaf arrowhead (Sagittaria latifiolia), knotweed (Polygonum sp.), rice cutgrass
(Leersia oryzoides), water horsetail (Equisetum fluviatilis), iris (Iris sp.),mint (Mentha
sp.), pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata) andsoftstem bulrush (Scirpus tabernaemontanii).
Polygonum sp. (PL) (knotweed) is found in small areas of mudflats in freshwater tidal
marshes at Stockport Flats. Knotweed (Polygonum sp.) is the dominant genus and occursin association with arrow arum (Peltandra virgnica),pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata),
broadleaf arrowhead (Sagittaria latifiolia), chairmaker's bulrush (Scirpus pungens), and
wild rice (Zizania aquatica).
Spartina alterniflora(SPA) (smooth cordgrass) is characteristic of brackish tidal marshes
such as Piermont and occurs along tidal creek or river banks. Smooth cordgrass (Spartina
alterniflora) is dominant, but common reed (Phragmites australis), chairmaker's bulrush(Scirpus pungens), and other bulrush (Scirpus sp.) species are also present.
Wrack Line (WRA)occurs where debris and flotsam are deposited by high tide on thefreshwater, brackish, or salt marsh. This type appears at Stockport Flats and Piermont
Marsh.
Upland/Non-Wetland (UP)primarily refers to deciduous woodlands, rock outcrops, anddeveloped land not classified as Railroad.
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Key indicators for interpretation of vegetation communities in the NYSDEC HRNERR.
RR Railroad The railroad grade represents unvegetated land and appears as a uniformly wide corridor of long
straight stretches and gentle even curves. The highly reflective crushed stone of the railroad bed is
bright tan, gray, or yellow in color and rough in texture. Dark lines of rails and ties are visible.
OT Open Water/Tidal Channels Marsh creeks and tributary rivers containing water at low tide appear dark in tone and blue-green in
color. Turbid water appears tan. Water's edge is often smooth in shape and follows riverbed
bathymetry. The flat surface is very even in texture.UN Unvegetated Flats Riverbed exposed at low tide is visible as mud and sand flats or exposed tidal channel banks. Thay
are smooth in texture and brown. Adjacent to channels they are ribbon-shaped and parallel to the
VI Vegetated Lower Intertidal Intertidal herbaceous plant community indicators vary greatly due to the diversity of plant species.
Nuphar advena is common in large uniform beds appearing bright light green and tan or brown when
leaves are coated with sediment. Other plant groups of mixed species appear in smaller beds, in
shades of light green with speckled patterns and rough trexture. The upper edge is usually abrupt
change to taller upper marsh species.
PA Panne Circular shallow depressions filled with water and sparse emergent vegetation. Substrate is dark
brown. Texture is smooth due to water surface. Found only at Piermont.
TA Typha angustifolia Dark green dense smooth texture, velvet like found in upper marsh environment. In dry conditions,
color is red-brown.
SC Scirpus sp. Located in intertidal areas, color is green, with a rust brown cast when plants are in flower.
LS Lythrum salicaria /mix Notable for its bright green color, communities are often found bordering inundated areas of tidal flatsand channnels. Purple flower can add a reddish tint.
SP Scirpus pungens Patches of this reed community are found in finely stippled bands parallel to the shore of intertidal
FA Phragmites australis Isolated pale blue-green circular clones of large expanses of blotchy green overlapping circles. In
flower, color can be more tan. In the stereoview, plants are clearly taller than surrounding vegetation.
SM Salt Meadow Low lying plants of unform bright yoellow-green color. Low in height compared to adjacent
communities. Found only in Piermont.
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Key indicators for interpretation of vegetation communities in the NYSDEC HRNERR. (cont.)
WS Wooded Swamp Mature woody vegetation 30 feet tall or taller. Over 50% canopy cover. Subject to inundation based
on landscape location. Coarse texture of tree crowns.
SS Scrub/Shrub Similar to wooded swamp but finer in texture. Small plant crowns vary in height create a stippled
appearance.
TN Trapa natans Bright yellow-green to creamy white color of floating leaves, seen in large expanses, smooth in
texture, located in areas of shallow, calm water, or on exposed mud flats at low tide. Tidal channels
and drainage patterns within beds are often visible.
SAV Submerged Aquatic
Vegetation
Located in shallow open waer. When submerged, very dark green-blue in color. When at surface at
low tide, beds appear medium to light green. Pattern sometimes even in texture or stippled. Pattern
of tan bands sometimes visible as moving water re-suspends sediment over plants. Dominant
species: Vallisneria americana . Also found: Myriophyllim spicatum , and Potamogeton sp .
AC Acorus calamus/ mix Sweet flag exhibits various shades of green in a stippled texture, honeycomb drainage pattern is
visible in large area, expecially in the Stockport marsh location.
PL Polygonum sp. Pale yellow green color, smooth texture, found in areas of standing water; expecially east of railroad
bed near Priming Hook in Stockport Flats.
SPA Spartina alterniflora Located at the riverward edge of Piermont Marsh, it appears as a shoreline bank of dark green
vegetation. Very low in height in contrast to adjacent Phragmites australis stands.
WRA Wrack Line Light tan to white in color, hightly reflective dead and dry organic and inorganic material washed up on
shore during extreme high tides/storm events. Roughly parallels shoreline in discontinuous bands.
UP Upland/Non-Wetland Consists of many cover types varying greatly in spectral response. Primarily refers to deciduous
woodlands, rock outcrops, developed land (buildings, roads, lawns, and meadows).
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Metadata example
Hudson River NERR Vegetation 2005 - Iona IslandMetadata also available as - [XML]
Metadata:
Identification_Information
Data_Quality_Information
Spatial_Data_Organization_Information
Spatial_Reference_Information
Entity_and_Attribute_Information
Distribution_Information
Metadata_Reference_Information
Identification_Information:
Citation:
Citation_Information:
Originator:Cornell Institute for Resource Information Sciences
Publication_Date:20110406
Title:Hudson River NERR Vegetation 2005 - Iona Island
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form:vector digital data
Series_Information:
Series_Name:Hudson River NERR Vegetation
Issue_Identification:2005Publication_Information:
Publication_Place:Staatsburg, NY
Publisher:
Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve (Hudson River NERR) and New York
State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)
Online_Linkage:
Description:
Abstract:
Tidal wetland plant communities of the Hudson River National Estuarine Research
Reserve 2005 for Iona Island. This vegetation community mapping dataset was compiled
by the Institute for Resource Information Sciences from the interpretation of high
resolution 2005 aerial photography. The classification scheme contains 20 vegetation
community type classes and was developed by Hudson River National Estuarine Research
Reserves (Hudson River NERR). This dataset was generated as an update to previous
inventories (1991 & 1997) which utilized the same classification scheme. These datasets
enable the Reserve Manager and Research Coordinator to assess trends in vegetation
change, evaluate current management techniques, and direct future actions.
Purpose:
http://../Users/sds3/Documents/%5CHudson_data%5Cwetlands%5CHRNERR%5Cmetadata%5Cxml%5CHudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.xmlhttp://../Users/sds3/Documents/%5CHudson_data%5Cwetlands%5CHRNERR%5Cmetadata%5Cxml%5CHudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.xmlhttp://../Users/sds3/Documents/%5CHudson_data%5Cwetlands%5CHRNERR%5Cmetadata%5Cxml%5CHudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.xmlhttp://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#1http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#1http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#2http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#2http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#3http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#3http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#4http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#4http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#5http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#5http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#6http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#6http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#7http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#7http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/member.cfm?organizationID=529http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/member.cfm?organizationID=529http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/member.cfm?organizationID=529http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#7http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#6http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#5http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#4http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#3http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#2http://../Documents/Hudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.html#1http://../Users/sds3/Documents/%5CHudson_data%5Cwetlands%5CHRNERR%5Cmetadata%5Cxml%5CHudson%20River%20NERR%20Vegetation%202005%20-%20Iona%20Island.xml -
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To characterize the 2005 vegetation communities of Iona Island for temporal trend
analysis, invasive species monitoring, and reserve management purposes.
Supplemental_Information:
The 2005 mapping of the Hudson River NERR sites is the third effort focused on
documenting existing vegetation within the Reserve sites. These mapping efforts were
designed to provide a management tool for each of the Reserve sites and therefore, are
at a higher spatial and taxonomic resolution than other wetland inventories. In 1991, a
mapping effort was undertaken by Coastal Services which resulted in analog maps
comprised of 100 vegetation classes. Mapping of the vegetation community types at
each of the four Hudson River NERR sites was undertaken again in 1997. The 1997
classification scheme of 20 classes was derived from the initial 1991 classification,
modified as directed by the Hudson River NERR Research Coordinator. During the
development of the 1997 dataset, the 1991 dataset was reclassified to the new 20 class
scheme. This same classification scheme was used for all subsequent mapping at all
Hudson River NERR sites. This project utilized the visual vocabulary of vegetation cover
types and the methodology for boundary determination developed for the 1997 mapping
effort (IRIS, 1997). The vocabulary is described in terms of key indicators. They are color,
texture, pattern, shadow, size, shape, and landscape location. In the interpretationprocess, the analyst made a correlation between aerial photographic signatures and
ground conditions through viewing photographs, visiting the marshes and consulting on a
frequent basis with expert project collaborators. The classification of objects into
vegetation community types is based upon their dominant visual characteristics. A
vegetation community type polygon was defined by drawing a line at the boundary
between different communities. When there was a distinct change in color, texture or
other key indicator, the edge was delineated by tracing. When there was a gradual
change the delineation was made where the two vegetation community constituents
appeared in equal quantity. The
Time_Period_of_Content:
Time_Period_Information:Single_Date/Time:
Calendar_Date:20050824
Currentness_Reference:
Datasets are updated as amendments occur, or as errors in the data are discovered and
corrected.
Status:
Progress:Complete
Maintenance_and_Update_Frequency:None planned
Spatial_Domain:
Bounding_Coordinates:
West_Bounding_Coordinate:-73.986264
East_Bounding_Coordinate:-73.965875
North_Bounding_Coordinate:41.314153
South_Bounding_Coordinate:41.295748
Keywords:
Theme:
Theme_Keyword_Thesaurus:LCSH
Theme_Keyword:Marine plants--Research--New York State
Theme_Keyword:Water quality--Hudson River (N.Y. and N.J)
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Theme_Keyword:Estuarine plants--Hudson River (N.Y. and N.J)--Identification
Theme_Keyword:Aquatic plants--Hudson River (N.Y. and N.J)--Identification
Theme_Keyword:Marine plants--Hudson River (N.Y. and N.J)--Identification
Theme_Keyword:American wild celery
Theme_Keyword:Water chestnut
Theme_Keyword:Aquatic weeds
Theme:
Theme_Keyword_Thesaurus:ISO 19115 Topic Category
Theme_Keyword:biota
Theme_Keyword:environment
Theme_Keyword:oceans
Theme_Keyword:inland waters
Theme:
Theme_Keyword_Thesaurus:none
Theme_Keyword:Vallisneria americana
Theme_Keyword:Trapa natans
Theme_Keyword:Submerged aquatic vegetation
Theme_Keyword:Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR)Theme_Keyword:
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)
Theme:
Theme_Keyword_Thesaurus:User Keywords
Theme_Keyword:Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve
Theme_Keyword:Estuarine
Theme_Keyword:Tidal Wetlands
Theme_Keyword:Plant Communities
Theme_Keyword:Wetland plant community
Theme:
Theme_Keyword_Thesaurus:EPA GIS Keyword ThesaurusTheme_Keyword:Conservation
Theme_Keyword:Ecosystem
Theme_Keyword:Environment
Theme_Keyword:Estuary
Theme_Keyword:Natural Resources
Theme_Keyword:Water
Place:
Place_Keyword_Thesaurus:LCSH
Place_Keyword:Hudson River Watershed (N.Y. and N.J.)
Place_Keyword:Hudson River Valley (N.Y. and N.J.)
Place:
Place_Keyword_Thesaurus:User Keywords
Place_Keyword:Iona Island
Place_Keyword:Rockland County
Place_Keyword:Hudson River
Place_Keyword:New York
Temporal:
Temporal_Keyword_Thesaurus:none
Temporal_Keyword:2007
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Access_Constraints:Access obtained through primary contact.
Use_Constraints:
1. The NYS DEC Hudson River Estuary Program, NYS DEC Hudson River National Estuarine
Research Reserve, Cornell Institute for Resource Information Sciences and the Carey
Institute of Ecosystem Studies ask to be credited in derived products. 2. Secondary
Distribution of the data is not allowed. 3. Any documentation provided is an integral part
of the data set. Failure to use the documentation in conjunction with the digital data
constitutes misuse of the data. 4. Although every effort has been made to ensure the
accuracy of information, errors may be reflected in the data supplied. The user must be
aware of data conditions and bear responsibility for the appropriate use of the
information with respect to possible errors, original map scale, collection methodology,
currency of data, and other conditions.
Point_of_Contact:
Contact_Information:
Contact_Person_Primary:
Contact_Person:Sarah H. Fernald
Contact_Organization:
Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve / New York State Department ofEnvironmental Conservation
Contact_Position:Research Coordinator
Contact_Address:
Address_Type:mailing and physical address
Address:Norrie Point Environmental Center
Address:PO Box 315
City:Staatsburg
State_or_Province:New York
Postal_Code:12580
Contact_Voice_Telephone:845-889-4745
Contact_Facsimile_Telephone:845-888-4749Contact_Electronic_Mail_Address:[email protected]
Data_Set_Credit:
Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR) maintains the Hudson River
NERR Vegetation data.
Native_Data_Set_Environment:
Microsoft Windows XP Version 5.1 (Build 2600) Service Pack 3; ESRI ArcCatalog
9.3.1.3000
Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator:Cornell Institute for Resource Information Systems
Publication_Date:20050331
Title:Hudson River NERR Vegetation
Edition:1997
Series_Information:
Series_Name:Hudson River NERR Vegetation
Issue_Identification:1997
Other_Citation_Details:
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Final Report to NYS DEC / HRNERR, "Mapping the Hudson River National Estuarine
Research Reserve Wetlands to Monitor Changes in Vegetation Community Type
Coverage," Bard College Field Station, Annandale, NY 12504.
Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator:Cornell Institute for Resource Information Sciences
Publication_Date:20110406
Title:Hudson River NERR Vegetation 2005 - Stockport Flats
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form:vector digital data
Series_Information:
Series_Name:Hudson River NERR Vegetation
Issue_Identification:2005
Publication_Information:
Publication_Place:Staatsburg, NY
Publisher:
Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve (Hudson River NERR) and New York
State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)
Online_Linkage:
Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator:Cornell Institute for Resource Information Sciences
Publication_Date:20110406
Title:Hudson River NERR Vegetation 2005 - Tivoli Bays
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form:vector digital data
Series_Information:
Series_Name:Hudson River NERR Vegetation
Issue_Identification:2005
Publication_Information:Publication_Place:Staatsburg, NY
Publisher:
Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve (Hudson River NERR) and New York
State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)
Online_Linkage:
Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator:Cornell Institute for Resource Information Sciences
Publication_Date:20110406
Title:Hudson River NERR Vegetation 2005 - Piermont Marsh
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form:vector digital data
Series_Information:
Series_Name:Hudson River NERR Vegetation
Issue_Identification:2005
Publication_Information:
Publication_Place:Staatsburg, NY
Publisher:
http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/member.cfm?organizationID=529http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/member.cfm?organizationID=529http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/member.cfm?organizationID=529http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/member.cfm?organizationID=529http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/member.cfm?organizationID=529http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/member.cfm?organizationID=529 -
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Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve (Hudson River NERR) and New York
State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)
Online_Linkage:
Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator:NYS DEC - Hudson River Estuary Program
Publication_Date:20021022
Title:Hudson River Estuary Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
Edition:1997
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form:vector digital data
Series_Information:
Series_Name:Hudson River Estuary Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
Issue_Identification:1997
Other_Citation_Details:
The project was undertaken in two separate time periods with different sources of
funding. In 1995, Phase I (Hyde Park to Castleton) was initiated with National Oceanicand Atmospheric Association and Hudson River Foundation funds. Subsequently in 1997,
the remaining portions (Hastings-on-Hudson to Hyde Park and Castleton to Troy) were
undertaken in Phase II with New York. State Environmental Protection Funds through the
Hudson River Estuary Program.
Online_Linkage:
Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator:
Cornell Institute for Resource Information Sciences (Cornell IRIS)
Publication_Date:20110506
Title:Hudson River Estuary Tidal Wetlands 2007Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form:vector digital data
Publication_Information:
Publication_Place:Albany, New York
Publisher:
Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve (HRNERR) and New York State
Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)
Online_Linkage:
Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator:
Cornell Institute for Resource Information Sciences (Cornell IRIS)
Publication_Date:20070301
Title:Hudson River Estuary Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) 2002
Edition:2.0
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form:vector digital data
Publication_Information:
Publication_Place:Albany, New York
http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/member.cfm?organizationID=529http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/member.cfm?organizationID=529http://cugir.mannlib.cornell.edu/bucketinfo.jsp?id=7872http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/member.cfm?organizationID=529http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/member.cfm?organizationID=529http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/member.cfm?organizationID=529http://cugir.mannlib.cornell.edu/bucketinfo.jsp?id=7872http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/member.cfm?organizationID=529 -
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Hudson River Estuary Bathymetry 30m-grid - New York State (NYSDEC)
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form:Raster digital data (ESRI Grid and DEM)
Series_Information:
Series_Name:Hudson River Estuary Program
Issue_Identification:Benthic Mapping Project
Publication_Information:
Publication_Place:Albany, NY
Publisher:NYS DEC
Online_Linkage:
Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator:
Marine Sciences Research Center, State University of New York at Stony Brook
Publication_Date:2007
Title:Hudson River Estuary Bathymetric Contours
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form:vector digital data
Series_Information:Series_Name:Hudson River Estuary Program
Issue_Identification:Benthic Mapping Project
Publication_Information:
Publication_Place:Albany, NY
Publisher:New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Online_Linkage:
Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator:Lamont-Doherthy Earth Observatory of Columbia University
Publication_Date:2004Title:Hudson River Estuary Shoreline - New York State (NYSDEC)
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form:vector digital data
Online_Linkage:
Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator:Dan Miller
Originator:Chris Bowser
Originator:Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve
Publication_Date:2080101
Title:Hudson River Estuary - Shoreline Type
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form:vector digital data
Series_Information:
Series_Name:Hudson River Estuary Program
Issue_Identification:Estuary Shoreline Type
Publication_Information:
Publication_Place:Albany, NY
Publisher:New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Online_Linkage:
http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/details.cfm?DSID=1136http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/details.cfm?DSID=1136http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/details.cfm?DSID=1136http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/details.cfm?DSID=1136http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/details.cfm?DSID=1136http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/details.cfm?DSID=1136http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/details.cfm?DSID=1136http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/details.cfm?DSID=1136http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/inventories/details.cfm?DSID=1136 -
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Cross_Reference:
Citation_Information:
Originator:Robin Bell
Originator:William Ryan
Originator:Suzanne Carbotte
Originator:Frank Nitsche
Originator:Roger Flood
Originator:Cecilia McHugh
Originator:Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University
Originator:
Marine Sciences Research Center, State University of New York at Stony Brook
Publication_Date:20050101
Title:Hudson River Estuary Morphology - New York State (NYSDEC)
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form:vector digital data
Publication_Information:
Publication_Place:Albany, NY
Publisher:New York State Department of Environmental ConservationOnline_Linkage:
Data_Quality_Information:
Attribute_Accuracy:
Attribute_Accuracy_Report:
Appropriateness of polygon boundaries and attributes was verified by reserve managers.
This data has not been field validated. Accuracy assessment was not planned in the scope
of work for the Hudson River NERR Vegetation 2005 mapping projects. The mapping of
the vegetation communities involved two opportunities for verifying interpretationaccuracy. The first occurred after the initial mapping of the data onto the aerial
photographic overlays. Field visits were made to selected areas based on the
interpreter's confidence level with the interpretation. Only areas of concern were visited
to verify interpretation. No standardized selection process was used to select these
area