thank you for 20 years of wild & scenic river...

One

Farmington River Watershed Association Spring 2014

Issues and Activities in the Farmington River Watershed.

860-658-4442 www.frwa.org

Save paper, get FRWA newsletters online and see our photos in their full color glory! Text FRWAENEWS to 22828 to subscribe!

Thank You for 20 Years of Wild & Scenic River Protection Twenty years ago, the West Branch of the Farmington River became a national Wild and Scenic River. That required a big leap of faith. It embraced the idea that an un-tried combination of federal, state, town, and non-profit partners (including your own FRWA) could really manage a river together. There was no guarantee of success. In 1994, Wild and Scenic Rivers were mostly out West. W&S designation was used primarily to protect western rivers, on federal land, from federally funded hydropower projects. Simple! But what about designating eastern rivers, where the land was privately owned? That proved complicated. And contentious! The process finally had to be completely overhauled into a “Partnership” Wild & Scenic model. The new version ensured local control, protected private property rights, and depended on local endorsements and a jointly produced plan from local partners. Or so everyone said. But would it work? Someone had to be the first to try it. Luckily, FRWA members have always been forward-thinking people and supported the idea. So with the help of many others, FRWA led the effort to make the Farmington West Branch one of the first Partnership Wild & Scenic Rivers in the country. Taking the leap along with us were the towns of Colebrook, Hartland, Barkhamsted, New Hartford, Canton, plus the CT DEEP, the MDC, the National Park Service, and Farmington River Anglers Association. Representatives from all these groups formed the Farmington River Coordinating Committee (FRCC). Our collective task was to carry out the W&S Management Plan on the West Branch. And it worked! Over the years W&S Partners have done so much together: fix erosion, study river flow, monitor water quality, provide technical service to towns, award scholarships, improve river access, help acquire conservation land, restore habitat, control stormwater runoff—you get the idea! Locally determined projects that fill local needs. Now, with 20 years of success, we look forward with confidence to future tasks. There’s plenty still to do. Thanks, everyone, for taking the plunge with us.

Partnership Wild & Scenic designation would not have happened without a strong FRWA. Thank you for supporting visionary river protection!


Two 860-658-4442 www.frwa.org

The Farmington River Watershed Association

Board & Staff

Officers David Donaldson, Jr. - President

John Laudati – Vice President Michael Feldman – Secretary Vic Schoen – Treasurer

Directors Susan Barney – Bloomfield Sia Bauer – Burlington David Donaldson – Farmington Michael Feldman – Avon Mike Gagne – West Hartford Katonya Hughey – Bloomfield Ann Jurkiewicz – Burlington John Laudati – Granby Deborah Leonard – Simsbury Matt Reichin – Hartland John E. Robinson – New Britain Victor Schoen – Avon David Sinish – Canton Marlene Snecinski – Simsbury

Staff

Executive Director Eileen Fielding Education & Outreach Coordinator Aimee Petras Water Quality Coordinator Alisa Phillips-Griggs GIS Specialist Jeff Bolton

The Farmington River Watershed Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and protection of the Farmington River and its Watershed through research, education and advocacy.

www.frwa.org

Bacteria For Naturalists Winding Trails, Saturday, June 7, 1:00 to 3:00 PM

There are far more bacteria on Earth than there are stars in the universe, they make up most of the living biomass on the planet and their influence on the environment is vast and profound, yet due to their microscopic size, they are mostly overlooked. Many bacteria, however, can be identified by macroscopic field marks, characteristics that anyone can see, smell, or sometimes even hear without the use of a microscope. Betsey Dexter Dyer, Professor of Biology at Wheaton College and author of A Field Guide to Bacteria, will lead us on the “mother of all nature walks” as we search through stream, pond, forest and wetland for signs of bacteria. Note: This walk is oriented towards curious naturalists with some background in biology. Registration is required by 3 days prior by registering online at WindingTrails.org. You can find it by looking through their program listings or by using the following link: https://www.windingtrails.org/programRegistration.php?id=344

A New Plan for Atlantic Salmon, and How You Can Help

Starting this year, you may see an adult Atlantic Salmon in the Farmington River. That is, if you are lucky (there won’t be many!) and observant enough to see that it isn’t a big brown trout.

Here’s why: For 35 years, adult Atlantic salmon that returned to the Farmington River program were captured at Rainbow Fishway in Windsor and taken to a special facility for breeding. This was part of the CT DEEP salmon restoration program. But the restoration program has been changed. Effective immediately, all salmon that appear in the fishway will be tagged and allowed to continue to migrate upstream. Anglers may incidentally catch one, see them jumping at dams, or even see them spawning in the fall. It is important to know that it is still illegal to possess salmon. If you catch one, release it unharmed as quickly as possible.

CT DEEP hopes that Atlantic salmon who proceed upstream will spawn naturally in the fall. Before releasing salmon at the fishway, biologists will attach a yellow tag to the fish’s dorsal fin that will identify it as a salmon and list a phone number to call to report the fish. The tag should remain on the fish. Anglers should write down (or photograph) the tag with the phone number and fish ID number quickly with the fish still in the water, then release the fish and call it in.

Note: Salmon are silver only in the spring when they are fresh from the ocean. Once in freshwater they turn brownish and resemble a brown trout. Salmon are generally around 30 inches long. Any fish that looks like a brown trout but is that large should be suspected of being a salmon, tag or no tag (some tags will fall off). In the Farmington River Watershed Salmon could be seen far upriver as Collinsville (they might jump the lower dam) and in both branches of Salmon Brook in Granby and East Granby.

If you have questions, contact Steve Gephard, Supervisor of the DEEP IFD Diadromous Fish Program and Habitat and Conservation Enhancement Program - 860-447-4316 or email [email protected].


Three 860-658-4442 www.frwa.org

Windsor Historical Society Tour: Farmington River Power Company

& Rainbow Fish Ladder June 7, 2014 - 9 - 10 am

Dams in the Rainbow area have harnessed waterpower from 1825 to this day. Take this rare opportunity to tour the Rainbow Dam and Fish Ladder and the Farmington River Power Company built by Stanley Works in 1925. You will see historic photographs and learn how the turbines and generators work with Don Zessin, Plant Manager. Then view migrating fish, observe how a fish ladder and fish traps operate, and learn more about the habits of migrating fish in Connecticut from State DEEP staff. Cost: $6 adults, $5 seniors and students, Windsor Historical Society members $4. Limited enrollment; reserve your spot for this program by June 6 by contacting Windsor Historical Society at 860/688-3813.

A Night at The Belle: FVVA’s Roaring 20th Anniversary Gala

Belle Terrace, Avon Saturday, May 31, 2014, 7 pm

The Farmington Valley Visitors Association (FVVA) invites one and all to join in an enchanting evening of music, dance, and surprises, 1920s-style, as the organization celebrates its “Roaring Twentieth” anniversary.

Come in period attire and you’ll be eligible to win a prize; don a 1920s party favor and have your photo taken with friends in the photo booth; indulge in a dance lesson; bid on exciting Silent Auction items, and more! Throughout the evening, guests will enjoy “speakeasy” signature drinks and a cash bar while savoring the flavors of Belle Terrace cuisine. Admission is $50 per person, which includes food, one signature drink, and all entertainment. For more information, sponsorship opportunities, and tickets, visit www.fvva.com or contact the FVVA office at 860.676.8878 or [email protected].

Enjoy Your River on a Midsummer Afternoon FRCC 20th Anniversary Picnic—Saturday June 22, 2014 from 1-5 pm

Treat yourself and the family to a day at the river! This June, we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Farmington West Branch becoming a national Wild & Scenic River. There will be festivities for all, including; guided tours and walks, games for kids, boating and fishing demonstrations, stories from the past, wildlife exhibits from CT DEEP, streambug searches, live music by Travelin’ Trout Band, and good food!

This free event, sponsored by the Farmington River Coordinating Committee, is on Sunday, June 22, 2014 (Rain or Shine!) from 1:00—5:00 pm at Peoples State Forest, East River Road, in Barkhamsted. Come on by!


Four 860-658-4442 www.frwa.org

Is it Safe to Swim in the River? FRWA Monitors Watershed Water Quality

A segment of the Farmington River and many tributaries are currently listed as impaired due to excessive bacteria. One of the most common queries FRWA receives is “Is it safe to swim in the River?” Or “Is it safe for my kids to splash about in Salmon (or any other) Brook?”

FRWA launched a water quality monitoring initiative in the upper Farmington River watershed in 2003. Every month, we monitor for chemistry, metals and bacteria April through November. In 2006, we expanded our bacteria monitoring all the way to the confluence of the Farmington River with the Connecticut River. We only monitor E. coli bacteria levels during the summer and analyze our samples at our own microbiology lab in the Simsbury WPCF(Water Pollution Control Facility).

Water quality in the Wild and Scenic portion of the river is generally excellent and our chemistry and metals do not exceed CT Water Quality Standards. But bacteria levels in our streams and the rivers spike after heavy rainfall, especially in more developed areas or downstream of agriculture. E. coli is a common bacteria present in the gut of all warm blooded animals (including humans) and its presence in water indicates that water may be contaminated with fecal material. While most species of E. coli do not cause human health problems, other pathogens that are harder to test for could also be in the water, thus E. coli are used as “indicator” bacteria.

But can I swim, you ask? We monitor bacteria levels as part of our monitoring program to understand baseline conditions and track the health of the watershed. FRWA does not monitor any beaches, we do not evaluate water conditions for swimming or other contact recreation, and we have no regulatory authority to close or post any area. However, we observe bacteria levels rise after heavy rain and there is an elevated risk of waterborne illness or infection when swimming in waters potentially contaminated with pathogens from polluted stormwater. Thus we believe it is prudent to avoid swimming or playing in rain-swollen rivers and streams for at least a couple of days after a hard rain, especially for young children. We post our most recent E. coli bacteria results on our website, FRWA.org, under water quality monitoring in the “What we do” tab.

FRWA Calls for Interns College students or grads: FRWA has work that might fit your interests and boost your resume! Check out our possibilities below: Outreach intern: Help FRWA encourage Farmington Valley residents to adopt river-friendly measures in home and yard and practice people-friendly recreation on the river. This may entail face-to-face public edu-cation at festivals and other events; promoting good river etiquette at paddling or tubing areas; updating the contents of our publications and online resources; improving river signage; and/or assisting with other tasks as needed. Water Quality Interns: Assist our Water Quality Monitoring Team and take on a water sampling route, learn to analyze samples for bacteria in FRWA’s microbiology lab, and assist with water quality data. Water quality interns may also assist with riverbank buffer plantings, rain gardens, or other stewardship projects as they arise. Stream Continuity Intern: Help FRWA identify culverts where fish and other aquatic animals cannot mi-grate up or down stream. You will contribute your data to a multi-state database of stream crossings that will allow us to determine which culvert repairs will restore the most river or stream habitat.

Interested? Please submit a short cover letter and resume to [email protected]. Deadline is June 15 or until filled.

Five 860-658-4442 www.frwa.org


Canoe Trips 2014 To participate in any of these events pre-registration is required. Space is limited and trips sell out quickly so please contact FRWA at (860) 658-4442, or email: [email protected] to register.

Canoe trips take from 2-4 hours and paddlers must be able to handle a canoe in flat water. Canoes courtesy of Huck Finn Adventures, Collinsville, CT.

Cost per person: Members: Need a boat: $20; Have a boat: $15; Non-members: Need a boat: $25; Have a boat: $20 Farmington River Archeology - Saturday July 12, 9:00am, with Ken Feder: Paddle along our own ancient Native American canoe trail as we explore the fascinating culture of the people who inhabited the Farmington River Valley thousands of years ago. Learn about the latest archeological discoveries from Ken Feder, Professor of Anthropology, Central Connecticut State University, and founder of the Farmington River Archeology Project.

Twilight on the River- Saturday July 19, 5:45 pm, with Jay Kaplan: Paddle the River in the cool of evening in the company of great blue herons, muskrats, beavers, and other crepuscular wildlife. Enjoy a little night music orchestrated by native songbirds and singing insects. Jay Kaplan, Naturalist and Director of Roaring Brook Nature Center in Canton will share his vast knowledge of local flora and fauna visible and/or audible along the River at sunset. (Trip lands after nightfall.)

Watershed Wisdom- Saturday August 2, 9:00 am: Paddle the river with FRWA as we share our watershed knowledge and pool our staff to reflect on the river. Ask us anything, share your concerns, and see how we view the river. Join us for a long leisurely trip down the river. You will have our undivided attention; especially if you sharing a boat with one of us!

Two Invasive Plants to Pull Now: Barberry and Garlic Mustard Garlic Mustard Why remove it? Each plant produces up to thousands of seeds that germinate easily in both well-lit and shaded environments. Eradicating garlic mustard is easy work, but takes time. Vigilance is key, as garlic mustard can sprout up even when you're sure that you've gotten rid of every last one. The ultimate goal in removing garlic mustard is to prevent seed development and spreading until the existing seed bank is depleted. How to remove it? Just pull the plant close to the ground and try to get most of the root. Both the leaves and roots are edible; search online for recipes. Save the roots to make this infused vodka: http://wellpreserved.ca/foraged-ingredients-infusing-vodka-with-garlic-mustard-root/

Barberry Why remove it? Scientists have linked this plant to the spread of Lyme disease; ticks like the wet moist environment in barberry patches, so the invasion of barberry across the forest keeps tick populations high. What to plant instead? Winterberry or Highbush Blueberry How to remove? Pull it out by the root; the stem will be bright yellow. (Burning the stem until it glows with a flamethrower works too; don’t try this at home!) At right is a photo of Avon Old Farms students helping FRWA remove barberry in Fisher Meadows on Earth Day 2014!

Six



Many Ways to Support FRWA Deborah Leonard is one of FRWA’s closest friends! She is a longtime Board Member and the River is one of her biggest inspirations. FRWA has benefitted greatly over the years from her imagination. At last year’s 60th Anniversary celebration she donated the painting of the Farmington River, shown at right, which FRWA is selling as a commemorative piece

honoring our 60 years. Our very popular River Pendant sold at Bill Selig Jewelers was designed by Debbie; sales of the River Pendant support FRWA’s programs. The river pendant (pictured at left) can be purchased in a number of sizes and in Silver or Gold. Contact Bill Selig Jewelers for more information.

During our recent membership drive we highlighted two excellent volunteers; Carrie and David Sinish. David and Carrie have been FRWA volunteers since 1980 and over

the years they’ve done just about everything that would raise awareness, recruit volunteers, celebrate, protect, monitor, and otherwise look after the Farmington River. We couldn’t do what we do without Debbie, Carrie, and David’s support! And we cannot do what we do with out you! There are many ways that you, too, can support FRWA: Volunteer. Attend our Programs. Donate to support our general programs. Donate appreciated stock. Make a Charitable Bequest.

Why Donate Appreciated Investments?

If you own stocks, mutual funds or bonds that have appreciated significantly or that have a very low cost basis you may want to consider using those assets for a charitable donation. By doing so you are able to pass along 100% of your gift because the charity is not subject to capital gains and you may be eligible for a tax deduction. If you are interested in donationg appreciated investments, please call FRWA at (860) 658-4442 ext. “0”.

How do I Make a Charitable Bequest? There are many ways to leave a Bequest: In your will you may leave a specific cash amount. You can choose certain financial investments in your

portfolio (stocks, bonds, or certificates of deposit). Dictate a certain percentage of your estate or assets or

to make FRWA the beneficiary of a life insurance policy or retirement plan.

Talk to your financial advisor for more information. Attend our Giving for Good event on June 10th at the

Simsbury Free Library. See above!

Giving for Good: A Guide to Smarter Giving Tuesday June 10th, 4:00 PM, Simsbury Genealogical Library

Do you want to be a more powerful force for causes you care about? Learn how to support your chosen charities with giving strategies that can magnify your gift. Some are far easier than you’d expect! Nancy Fellinger, CFP® (Certified Financial Planner) with Coburn & Meredith, Inc. will be on hand to discuss some ideas for giving plans and answer your questions during this informal gathering. Among her other professional designations she is also a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy®, and she has extensive experience as a board member with several organizations. This free session is open to all with an interest in the subject.

Tuesday, June 10th, 4:00 PM at the Simsbury Free Library (just downstairs

from the FRWA office headquarters), 749 Hopmeadow Street.

Painting of Farmington River courtesy of Deborah Leonard (deborahleonardart.com)

Name: ________________________________________________________________________________

Address:_______________________________________________________________________________

City:____________________________________ State:__________________ Zip Code: ______________

Phone Number: _____________________________ Email:______________________________________

Check one: □ I want to renew my membership now: □ $40 (Individual) □ $60 (Family) □ $120 □ $150 □ $250 □ $_____ other amount

___ I have enclosed my check payable to FRWA, or please charge my ___ MasterCard or ___Visa.

Card #: _____________________________ Expiration Date: ________________ Amount $ _________

Name on Card: ___________________________Signature______________________________________

Please send to: Farmington River Watershed Association, 749 Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury, CT 06070

Credit card donations may be phoned in to Aimee Petras at (860) 658-4442 x 201 or

submitted online at www.frwa.org via our secure online contributions server. And thank you!

Seven



Not an FRWA Member? Then join us! For 60 years, FRWA has fought for the Farmington River. Together we will start another season of preserving, protecting, and restoring the river - for everyone and forever. Becoming a member certainly has its benefits including joining a network of people that are passionate about the Farmington River and its vitality. FRWA membership has its rewards: Discounts on FRWA events & 20% discount on FRWA merchandise 3rd night free with 2 night stay, Maplewood Lodging, Otis, MA 413.269.7351 10% off any service at Tunxis Medical Massage, LLC 761-4081 EMS (Avon & West Hartford) 10% discount excluding bikes & boats 651-8031 15% off in-stock accessories at Collinsville Canoe & Kayak Store 693-6977 $5 off canoe rentals at Huck Finn Adventures 693-0385 10% off purchases over $50 at Vincent Sports Shop, Inc. 658-5419 10% off framing of FRWA posters—Artful Framer, Avon 678-1321 10% discount at Blue Sky Foods, excluding catering 379-0000 10% discount at Joe’s Bait & Tackle, Windsor Locks 623-7980

http://www.frwa.org

Non-Profit Org.

U.S. Postage

PAID Hartford, CT

Permit No. 158

The Farmington River Watershed Association 749 Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury, CT 06070

Protecting The Farmington River, For You, For All, Forever. Printed on 100% recycled paper, always.

2014 Calendar of Events

Date Event May 31, 7 pm A Night at The Belle: FVVA’s Roaring 20th Anniversary Gala, Belle Terrace, Avon

June 7, 1PM Bacteria For Naturalists, Winding Trails

June 7, 9 AM Farmington River Power Company & Rainbow Fish Ladder Tour

June 10th, 4 PM Giving for Good: A Guide to Smarter Giving, Simsbury Genealogical Library

June 22, 1-5 PM FRCC 20th Anniversary Picnic, Peoples State Forest

July 12, 9 AM Farmington River Archeology with Ken Feder Canoe Trip

July 19, 5:45 PM Twilight on the River with Jay Kaplan Canoe Trip

August 2, 9 AM Watershed Wisdom Canoe Trip

Please RSVP to (860) 658-4442 ext. “0” to ensure we have adequate food and supplies for all events. Check the Events page at www.frwa.org for more information on our events.

thank you for 20 years of wild & scenic river...

Documents