Watershed Management in Saint John: 2011 Updates

Watershed Management in Saint John, New Brunswick (2011) An update on the status of watershed management recommendations for Marsh Creek, Hazen Creek, Little River and Alder Brook

Atlantic Coastal Action Program (ACAP) Saint John

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Acknowledgements

This project was made possible through grants provided by the New Brunswick Environmental Trust Fund, Environment Canada’s Atlantic Ecosystem Initiative, and the New Brunswick Wildlife Trust Fund

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Table of Contents

Executive Summary 1

Colour Coding 2

Marsh Creek 3

Little River 29

Alder Brook 44

Hazen Creek 49

Summary 54

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Executive Summary

ACAP Saint John conducted extensive field surveys of four Saint John, New Brunswick watersheds in 2006 and used the direct observations to develop watershed management recommendations to improve the environmental integrity in each of Marsh Creek, Hazen Creek, Little River and Alder Brook. The 2006 reports, which are available on-‐line at www.acapsj.com, have served as a roadmap from which to target and advance specific watershed improvement projects. Development and infrastructure-‐related alterations in each of these watersheds since 2006 have resulting in the need to update the status of the previous recommendations so as to maintain the focused and efficient advancement of watershed management priorities. Overall, the nature of the alterations in these four watersheds appears to have resulted in net improvements in their respective environmental integrity. This report summarises the status of the 2006 watershed management recommendation for each of the watersheds, and highlights the pending management priorities for the next five years, of which ‘big ticket items’ top the priorities list.

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Colour Coding

This report builds on watershed management recommendations developed in 2006. A colour code has been employed to assist in the assessment of current management priorities whereby red represents no change in recommendation status; yellow indicates that some activity is currently directed towards this recommendation, with green signifying that the recommendation has been fully implemented.

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Marsh Creek Sub-‐Drainages

The large size of the Marsh Creek watershed necessitates that each sub-‐drainage be examined as an individual entity, even though they collectively contribute to the overall environmental integrity of Marsh Creek proper. The greater Marsh Creek watershed can be divided into six distinct sub-‐drainages, and for the purposes of this management plan, these sub-‐drainages will be used to divide the plan into smaller geographic portions. These six sub-‐drainages are as follows: Marsh Creek, Majors Brook, Fisher Lakes Tributary, Cold Brook, Little Marsh Creek and Ashburn Creek. While each of these sections maintain their unique physical characteristics, drain their own tributaries and vary greatly in length and area, they are all major contributors to the Marsh Creek drainage pattern and are essential parts of this management plan.

Figure 1: The Marsh Creek watershed is divided into six sub-drainages.

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Marsh Creek

Marsh Creek is the single longest watercourse within the Marsh Creek watershed and serves as a common outlet for all Marsh Creek tributaries. The headwaters of this 11.42 km creek originate just outside the northeastern Saint John City limits at the Renforth Bog. The physical and biological characteristics of Marsh Creek change dramatically between its headwaters and the terminus. The observed changes in the surrounding environment allow Marsh Creek to be divided into eight distinct management sections.

Figure 2: Aerial photo of the Marsh Creek sub-drainage, indicating the 8 management sections.

Stream Section

Location Recommendations

1 Quarry road along the

edge of the Renforth bog Organize a cleanup of the area to remove illegal dumping

1 ATV trail Install corduroy roads along the trail in wet,

environmentally sensitive areas

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2 Entire length of section Protect from further development

3 Entire length of section Organize a cleanup of the area

3 Concrete flood control

dam Replace dam with a new one allowing better fish passage

4 Throughout Glen Falls Plant Native riparian vegetation along stream banks

4 Culverts Replace all culverts in this section with a large, open

bottom version

4 Culverts The banks near the culverts should be reinforced with native riparian vegetation paired with gabions, riprap, or granite blocks

5 Organize a cleanup to remove litter and illegally

dumped refuse

5 Plant Native riparian vegetation along stream banks

6 Sewage outlets various

locations throughout stream

Redirect sewage to eliminate discharge into Marsh Creek

6 Entire length of Section Develop a walking trail and canoeing facility

7 Behind Canada Post

Corporation Remove creosote & Plant native vegetation

7 Sewage outfalls Redirect sewage to eliminate discharge into Marsh

Creek

7 Railway bridge Rebuild bridge with fewer in stream pylons

8 Forebay Develop a wetland/waterfowl plan for a public park

8 Forebay & Causeway Replace Tide Gates

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Section 1 Management Recommendations

To improve the quality and sustain the natural beauty of the Renforth Bog a mass cleanup of illegal dumping should be conducted.

Measures should be taken to improve the state of the ATV trails and to prevent further environmental damage. This can be achieved by implementing corduroy roads in the areas subject to deep rutting due to the soft soil along the banks of the wetland. A corduroy road creates a bridge like structure by lining logs side by side (looks like corduroy). Corduroy roads are an old method developed by early settlers to allow passage though wet lands. Creating sections of these corduroy roads would allow a less destructive passage for recreational ATV usage.

Action: several cleanups were conducted, including a significant one in 2011 which saw one hundred and twenty-‐eight hard working volunteers spend a total of nine hours collecting fifty bags and a front end loader full of garbage.


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This section is virtually undisturbed and in a very natural healthy state. The management suggestion for this section is to preserve the ecological integrity and discourage future development of the area. A cleanup the debris in the stream serving as a barrier to fish passage should be conducted.


The stream is in very good condition for the majority of this section. It is suggested the present state be maintained. A clean up should be conducted to remove the small amount of garbage found along the stream.

Action: as part of the annual Marsh Creek cleanup, this area was remediated by local volunteers in 2009, 2010 and 2011.

The dam located in the middle of the section should be replaced or modified to allow for better fish passage.


This section is lacking natural riparian vegetation in many locations. The stream bank may be restored and strengthened by planting natural riparian vegetation, thus creating a natural buffer between residential houses and the stream.

Education is also an important part of this section’s management, as residents should be educated as to proper stream management practices. Local ATV groups should also be brought into discussions on management to ensure cooperation and so that any remediation activities are sustainable in the long-‐term.

All culverts in this section are of poor quality. New, open bottom culverts should be installed to meet the requirements for proper fish passage and stream flow. Also new bank reinforcements should be installed around the culverts to reduce the amount of silt and gravel washing into the stream.

Action: The culverts in question were replaced over several years (2007-‐2010) as part of the City of Saint John’s drainage improvements and capital programs. The new culverts are much larger box culverts, offer increases in flow capacity and significantly improved fish passage.

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This area needs to be monitored and protected from improper future development.

A cleanup should be organized to remove debris deposited along the stream and surrounding riparian zone.

Native riparian vegetation should be planted along banks in various locations near industry and developments, such as Strescon and Atlantic Metal Recycling, to reduce stream bank erosion, pollutants running into the stream and to increase the canopy cover.

Action: as part of ACAP’s annual Marsh Creek cleanup, this area was remediated by local volunteers in 2009, 2010 and 2011.


For this section of the stream a major improvement in water quality is suggested eliminating any point source pollution (such as sewage) being dispersed into the stream. Once the water quality has been improved the creek could host a trail system including boardwalks along wet stream banks and trails though the dry forested areas. The creek is also wide and slow moving and when combined with the beautiful scenery serves to be prime canoeing territory. Water quality improvements and preservation from further development will also benefit the large amount of wildlife (i.e. deer, raccoons, mink, muskrat, waterfowl, etc.) that use this section.

Action: The Harbour Cleanup project, which will redirect the sewage in this section toward the new Eastern Wastewater Treatment Plant, is currently under construction and is scheduled for completion within the next 12 months.


The most important management suggestion for this section of stream would be to remove the creosote contamination from the Marsh Creek and the riparian zone. Barry Leger MEng and Alan Drake B. Tech Env conducted an extensive study of creosote removal in 1998 for ACAP Saint John. Sc. titled “Study of the Extent of Contamination in Marsh Creek”. A copy of this is available at the ACAP office upon request.

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The raw sewage expelled into Marsh Creek each day poses a significant health threat. The sewage should not be from discharging into Marsh Creek. Securing the federal funding needed to complete the Harbour Cleanup wastewater infrastructure remains a top priority for the remediation of Marsh Creek.

An increase in riparian vegetation would also be beneficial to increase water quality and stabilize the stream banks. This can be implemented though the introduction of live cuttings in various locations along this section.

The railway bridges in this section should be rebuilt without in-‐stream pylons, or at least fewer pylons, which prove to be obstructions in the channel.



Develop a wetland plan suitable for birdwatchers, hikers, et cetera, that encircles the Forebay area, and provides access to this unique urban wetland. Replace tide gates with more modern gates which allow for fish passage.

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Cold Brook

Cold Brook is the most extensive tributary in the Marsh Creek watershed. This 6.7 km sub-‐drainage also contains the greatest number of continuous lakes, providing a rich environment for wildlife as well as for residential development. The brook originates as the drainage stream to Quinn Lake, and continues through Shaw’s, Kelly and Mystery Lakes before descending into the Great Marsh basin where it joins Marsh Creek in the vicinity of Glen Falls. Along its entire length, Cold Brook is paralleled by Golden Grove Road, a medium-‐density throughway for local traffic. Cold Brook passes through a variety of terrains, ranging from barren bog to canopied cascades, which allow it to be divided into four distinct management areas.

Figure 3: Aerial Photo of the Cold Brook sub-drainage, indicating the 4 management sections.

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The majority of management suggestions for this section pertain to culvert crossings. The location where Cold Brook exits Quinn Lake, where there are three poorly installed. The grates need to be repaired, and large rock or riprap be installed to stabilize the banks.

Stream Section


1 Culverts as Cold

Brook leaves Quinn Lake

Replace culverts with large, open bottom culverts. Reinforce banks

1 Culvert where Cold

Brook flows beneath Willis Road

Replace culverts with large, open bottom culverts. Reinforce banks

1 Willis road crossing Remove and properly dispose of Japanese Knotweed

2 Clayton Lane Remove and properly dispose of Japanese Knotweed

2 Acadia Drywall Create a protective buffer between Acadia Drywall

parking lot and Cold Brook

3 Mystery Lake Dam Modify to improve upstream fish passage

3 Behind residential

areas Organize a cleanup of the area

3 Between Golden

Grove Road and Roxbury Drive

Collect a sample of reddish brown sludge for chemical composition testing and determine the origin of the sludge

3 Residential area Inform local landowners of proper watershed management techniques and the importance of both native riparian vegetation and chemical free lawn care

4 Flood basin Preserve flood basin and discourage any future

development of the area

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The invasive species Japanese Knotweed is an extremely aggressive and noxious weed. Once established, Japanese Knotweed will spread throughout an area choking out native species to create a monoculture along the riparian zone. There is a small colony of knotweed located along the stream banks near the Willis Road. This colony should be removed as soon as possible to prevent further spreading.

Conservation of the existing natural capital in this section is a priority.


A second patch of Japanese knotweed is located streamside along Clayton Lane. This patch of knotweed should also be removed from the area and properly disposed of before given the chance to completely destroy the riparian zone.

The parking lot for Acadia Drywall closely borders Cold Brook for a short distance. There is no protection along this section of the stream from parking lot runoff that may contain traces of oil and other car fluids as well as sediments. A protective buffer containing natural vegetation, such as cattails, would serve to filter much of the contamination from the parking lot runoff.


The amount of litter and pollution along the stream banks of section three prove to be the major concern. The litter is mostly small to medium in size and would be easily removed with a small team of volunteers. A concern is the thick white foam and a slimy reddish-‐brown runoff from the left stream bank. The source and chemical composition of both foam and runoff is unknown. This should be further investigated to determine origin and possible environmental effects.

A small section along the right hand stream bank near the juncture with Golden Grove Road contains homes within close vicinity to Cold Brook. In some cases the mowed/landscaped lawn butts up directly with the stream providing no vegetative buffer. It is suggested that the land owners be informed of the importance of protecting local urban streams and be encouraged to plant native vegetation streamside and refrain from the use of both pesticides and herbicides.

The Mystery Lake dam should be modified to allow for upstream fish passage.

Action: as part of the annual Marsh Creek cleanup, this area was remediated by local volunteers in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011. In addition, this section was a major feature of outreach initiatives as part of the Marsh Creek Restoration Initiative, highlighting the importance of proper watershed management to the residents of the neighbourhood and the Greater Saint John region as a whole.

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This section is well barriered from the everyday activity of humans, whether by natural buffer or by installed fencing, and should be maintained as such to avoid further flood-‐basin degradation, an important consideration given the region’s history of water level rise during heavy rainfalls and spring freshets.

Action: In 2010-‐2011, as part of the Marsh Creek Restoration Initiative, and a joint project with the New Brunswick Department of the Environment, this floodplain has been added to an inventory of wetland compensation sites, slated for conservation and enhancement.

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Ashburn Creek

Ashburn Creek headwaters originate from two bodies of water, Harrigan Lake and Long Lake, in the far north-‐western stretches of Rockwood Park. The two separate headwater streams are joined within the park to form Ashburn Creek, which is 4.91 km Long. The creek goes through changes resulting in four distinct stream sections ranging from cedar bog to rocky mountain stream. The stream is fairly isolated for the majority of its run with the exception of the last section.

Figure 4: Aerial photo of the Ashburn Creek sub-drainage, indicating the management section divisions.

Stream Section


1b Long Lake Improve and stabilize bank where the hiking trail

crosses Long Lake

1c Cherry Brook Zoo Replace the perimeter fence surrounding the Cherry

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Brook Zoo allowing for better stream passage 2 Ashburn Lake Install a new dam where Ashburn Creek exits Ashburn

Lake

2 Glen Carpenter

Center Plant native vegetation

3 Middle of section Remove old logging dam 3 Behind commercial

development Re-vegetate and clean up fire pit area

4 Throughout section Increase natural riparian vegetation


This section is in very good condition. Some suggestions would be to create better culverts for easy fish passage and improve retaining walls and stream banks surrounding culverts (such as building the retaining wall slightly higher than the trail). This will reduce the amount of erosion and silt being washed into the streams and lakes during heavy rainfall and high winds.

The fence located at the Cherry Brook Zoo also needs to be replaced and should be designed in a manner which will not inhibit the flow of the stream either upon entrance or exit from the zoo.

Action: Trail maintenance in 2010 replaced one of the stream/lake crossings in question with a much larger and less intrusive structure, however there remains work to be done on the other structures in this section.


The rock dam separating Ashburn Lake from the stream is unsuitable for proper fish passage. The dam should be replaced and a fish ladder should be installed. This solution will not only solve the problem of proper fish passage but can later be used as an educational tool during the summer program informing children of the proper way to obtain the desired result while causing the least amount of environmental damage.

Natural native plants should also be planted along the stream banks creating a buffer zone to filter and trap wind blown garbage, increase canopy cover and naturally stabilize the stream banks. Again this can also be used as a future educational tool for the summer educational program.

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The old logging dam is inhibiting the natural flow of the stream and should be removed allowing Alder Creek to revert to its natural state.

The riparian area near the fire pit should be re-‐vegetated with natural vegetation to protect the area and create canopy cover.


Riparian vegetation has been greatly reduced in many portions of this section allowing litter, sediment, and roadway runoff to enter the stream with ease. Throughout this section native species should be planted to help provide a vegetative buffer from human stress and increase the canopy cover for the stream.

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Little Marsh Creek

Little Marsh Creek is a 4.22 km long secondary tributary of the Marsh Creek watershed, extending between Moosepath and Brookville in east Saint John. The creek forms a 380 ha sub-‐drainage in the Marsh Creek watershed, consisting mostly of bogs and marshes, including the area known as Drury’s Pasture. The sub-‐drainage can be divided into 2 distinct sections for management.

Figure 5: Aerial photo of Little Marsh Creek, indicating the management section divisions.

Stream Section


1 Near Lawlor Lake Limit stream crossing and when crossing is necessary

create a crossing which causes the least environmental damage

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1 Quarry 1 Sections of the stream in close vicinity to the quarry should be monitored for increased sediment load and runoff

2 Drury Cove

vicinity Clean up and prevent further illegal dumping

2 Near Foster

Thurston Re-vegetate riparian zone with native species to create a natural buffer

2 Quarry 2 Replace old culvert with a larger, opened bottom culvert

2 Quarry 2 Reinforce banks along culvert crossing with large rock and

native vegetation


ATV access to this area should be monitored and any areas where stream crossing is necessary should be properly reinforced to limit damage to the stream.

The section of the stream located near the quarry should also be monitored for runoff and sediment loading.

Action: The outlet of Lawlor Lake was replaced by the Brookville quarry in 2009 with a modern structure with proper fish passage and stormwater drainage. Subsequent modifications and monitoring of sediment flow continued for two years hence and have since been completed.


There is a small amount of illegal dumping located off dirt access roads near Drury Cove Road. Action to remove the garbage should be taken along with a preventative measures protecting from future dumping. These could include simple measures such as blocking off the areas prone to dumping with large boulders, or it could mean installing cameras to capture illegal dumping violators in order to publicly embarrass them.

The riparian vegetation along the banks of Little Marsh Creek near Foster Thurston Road has been greatly reduced, allowing an increase in environmental stress, erosion, sediment load, and reduced canopy cover. The natural riparian vegetation should be replaced along the banks restoring the protective buffer.

As Little Marsh Creek crosses the throughway to the second quarry two major problems are encountered. The first is the unacceptable culvert that allows the stream to cross the quarry’s access road. Secondly the banks

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are not stable allowing much loose gravel to wash into the stream altering the streams ecology. This culvert should be replaced with a large open bottom version accompanied with reinforced banks to reduce the sedimentation. The banks can be reinforced with large riprap accompanied with vegetation to create a buffer.

Action: While a number of cleanups have taken place over each of the past five years in this section, little has been done to address the ongoing issue of illegal dumping and it continues to be a problem in this part of the Marsh Creek watershed.

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Majors Brook

Majors Brook, with a length of 2.18 km, is a small tributary to Marsh Creek. The headwaters for Majors Brook stem from a small stream located near Michael Crescent and a small wetland located adjacent to the southeast parking lot of McAllister Place. The stream can be broken into four major sections based on environmental criteria.

Figure 6: Aerial Photo of Majors Brook indicating the 4 management sections.

Stream Section


1 Wetland adjacent

McAllister Place Clean the area of all refuse and backfill

1 Wetland adjacent

McAllister Place Protect from further development. Maintain 30 m vegetation buffer. Educate citizens on its value for wildlife and flood abatement

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2 Adjacent McAllister

Place Increase natural riparian vegetation


Place Install new culvert where Majors Brook crosses Westmorland Road


Place Install signs educating people of the importance of healthy streams

3 Between Wal-Mart

and Parkway Mall Increase natural riparian vegetation along stream banks

4 Between Majors

Brook Road and Union with Marsh Creek

Increase natural riparian vegetation along stream banks (focus on culvert near Rothesay Avenue)

4 Between Majors

Brook Road and Union with Marsh Creek

Redirect raw sewage from entering Majors Brook

All Sections Total length of

Majors Brook Major Clean up on a regular basis to remove all C&D, industrial, and household refuse from Majors Brook and riparian zone


This wetland is a prime piece of natural capital amidst an urban setting, and should be conserved or even enhanced for public enjoyment. The wetland should be protected from further degradation and the silt removed. The legislated 30 m buffer zone should be strictly adhered to/ Development around this wetland should be a major concern for urban planner concerned about flooding in east Saint John.

Action: While annual cleanups have taken place over each of the past five years in this section of Majors Brook, little has been done to address the ongoing issue of illegal dumping and it continues to be a problem in this part of the Marsh Creek watershed. In addition, while portions of in-‐fill from the adjacent mall parking lot were removed in 2010 as part of an enforcement action, the wetland could still be further expanded for stormwater holding capacity if historic in-‐fill were also removed.


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This section of the stream is highly contaminated and contains little riparian vegetation. In 2005 and 2006 ACAP Saint John planted shrubbery to begin to alleviate this issue, however the stream banks should continue to be re-‐vegetated and better stream buffers established to further reduce erosion and parking lot runoff.

Education plays a key role in improving and protecting this section of the stream. Many citizens of Saint John do not realize that Majors Brook flows adjacent the retail stores in the area and believe it is merely a plebian ditch. By educating the public and increasing awareness of the importance of our urban streams we can reduce the amount of negative anthropogenic impacts.

The culvert on Westmorland Road needs to be increased in size and the surrounding banks must be stabilized.


It is suggested that the amount of large native trees be increased along the stream banks, focusing on the left hand stream bank next to the Parkway Mall parking lot.

Action: Tree plantings of native conifer species were conducted by ACAP Saint John in 2008 and 2009, seeking to improve riparian cover in this section of Majors Brook.

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The primary management suggestion for this section of stream would be to treat and eliminate the raw sewage discharging into the stream.

Native riparian vegetation should be planted along the stream banks near Rothesay Avenue. This vegetation will increase canopy cover and provide a natural buffer reducing the amount of runoff and litter entering the stream.


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Fisher Lakes Tributary

Fisher Lakes tributary, as the name implies, flows from the three Fisher Lakes located in Rockwood Park for a length of 2.4 km to its terminus with Marsh Creek. The Fisher Lakes Tributary can be divided into two distinct management sections.

Figure 7: Aerial photo of the Fisher Lakes Tributary indicating the 2 management sections.

Stream Section


1 Emerging from

under parking lot adjacent Fisher Lake 3

Remedy hanging culvert

1 Entire section Organize a cleanup to remove litter and illegal dumping

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1 Where FLT leaves

Fisher Lake 3 Plant native riparian vegetation along the stream banks

1 After entrance to

camp ground Replace old dam with a new version more suitable for fish passage

1 After entrance to

camp ground Groom and improve existing trail connecting the Allison Grounds ball field and Rockwood Park


The hanging culvert at the beginning of the stream (crossing under the parking lot) can be improved by building up the stream creating a small pool and raising the water level to become even with the culvert.

A clean up is suggested for the entire section to remove the littler scatter through the stream. The clean up should focus a large effort on the final stretches of the section because this is where the garbage and litter deposition is greatest.

It is suggested that native riparian vegetation be planted along the bank as the stream leaves Fisher Lakes to increase canopy cover, create a buffer and decrease erosion.

The dam and bridge located near the large waterfall should be replaced with a more structurally sound alternative which will also improve the trail allowing pedestrian access to the park from the Allison Grounds.

Action: Cleanups were conducted in this section over several years ranging from 2006 through 2011. In addition, planned improvements to the dam near the entrance to the Rockwood campground are pending.

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Little River

The Little River’s headwaters stem from two lakes located in East Saint John, Cooks Lake and Douglas Lake. Little River flows for 15.65 km, from headwaters to the terminus at the Bay of Fundy, making Little River the longest sub-‐drainage within the watershed. Based on geographical, habitat types and developmental changes Little River is divided into seven management sections.

Figure 8: Aerial view of Little River showcasing the seven management sections.

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Watershed Management Recommendations -‐ Little River

Stream Section


1a Douglas Lake Protect undeveloped shoreline; educate public as to the

importance of maintaining native riparian vegetation

1b Cooks Lake

Preserve undeveloped shoreline and revegetate cleared riparian buffers

2 Entire length of section Assess ATV crossings and create proper ATV fords

where appropriate

2 Norris Road and Bustin Lake Three locations require riparian vegetation renewal

including alder or willow joint plantings

3 Entire section Cleanups on a regular basis to remove all C&D,

industrial, and household refuse from Little River and riparian zone

3 Pipeline Road East and

Phinney Hill

Road reconstruction with a proper culvert crossing to prevent further washout

3 Little River Reservoir

Assess ATV crossings and create proper ATV fords or bridges where appropriate

4 Culverts Between Little River Reservoir and Simonds High School

Stream bank revegetation, repair gabions, improve canopy cover, reduce ATV traffic through the stream itself

4 Silver Falls Reservoir Remediation of stream bank vegetation, removal of sand

plume, erosion protection measures.

5 Silver Falls Maintain natural status of the falls, monitor upstream

dam

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6 Adjacent to the Irving Oil Refinery

Replace antiquated culvert crossings, remove all abandoned stream crossings

Section 1a Management Recommendations

The management recommendations for this section would include discouraging future development of any remaining undeveloped sections of the shoreline. Also residents who landscape directly to the lake should be provided with an information packet stressing the importance of riparian vegetation along the shoreline.

Section 1b Management Recommendations

Preserve undeveloped shoreline and re-‐vegetate areas where riparian vegetation has been removed.


Recreational ATV trails can be detrimental to the health of any watercourse. As vehicles cross the stream they may cause erosion of the stream banks, disturbance of the streambed, and act as a point source pollutant by depositing oil, gas and other fluids into the stream. It is recommended that any necessary crossings of Little River be assessed to create an ATV ford which will not be environmentally damaging. Alternatively, a small bridge with appropriate reinforcement of the stream and banks could be installed.

The stream banks at three locations need an increase in native riparian vegetation. The first location is downstream of where Little River crosses the Norris Road in section 2a. Additional native riparian vegetation should be planted along the stream banks to buffer the residential lawns from the watercourse. Local residents also should be informed of the danger of using lawn care chemicals. The second location is the newly installed crossing also on the Norris Road, located in section 2b. Joint plantings of alder or willow should be included with the riprap to create a vegetative buffer helping to filter road runoff. The third location is further downstream, in section 2c, as Little River approaches Bustin Lake. There is a location on the left stream bank near a residential home where riparian vegetation has been removed. Native riparian vegetation should be replanted.


The major issue of concern within this section is the large amount of illegal dumping. The main entrance to the Pipe Line Road East (near the Little River Reservoir parking lot) has been blocked with a chain to prevent easy vehicular access; however, there are other methods of access to both this road and the surrounding network of ATV trails. One such entrance is simply a few hundred feet down the road allowing people to bypass the chain blocking access to the entrance. An increased amount of monitoring in this area and harsher consequences for illegal

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dumping would be beneficial in reducing the amount of illegal dumping in the area. The other entrances to the area should also be blocked to reduce the amount of traffic entering the area.

Not all dumpsites were targeted during the first cleanup because of the limited time and resources. A second clean up should be organized to remove remaining refuse deposited within the Little River Reservoir area.

Actions: The City of Saint John has increased signage and installed video surveillance cameras to deter illegal dumping. Increased pedestrian activity associated with upgrades to the Pipeline Rd also appears to be acting as an effective deterrent to illegal dumping activities.

Little River crosses directly over the Pipe Line Road East after passing through a beaver dam. This crossing has resulted in erosion of the Pipe Line Road East and nearby stream banks, resulting in a general widening of the streambed. The road should be reconstructed to include a proper culvert crossing for Little River.

Actions: The City of Saint John completed upgrades to the water main running beneath Pipe Line Rd East, resulting in the creation of proper culverts and bridges, as well as the creation of a new stream (Phinney Hill Stream) that effectively channels water through salmonid habitat directly into Little River. This project also improved fish passage through culverts at Graham’s Brook. There are no longer any existing water-‐related issues identified for this section of Little River.

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Man-‐made Phinney Hill Stream (left) has shown remarkable capacity to provide habitat for Brook trout, Brown trout, black nosed dace and sticklebacks.

Improved fish passage at Graham’s Brook, Little River watershed.

Downstream from where Little River crosses Pipe Line Road East, another ATV trail crossing is encountered. This trail is a wide dirt road and Little River flows beneath through three old, clogged, concrete culverts. These culverts should be replaced with one large open bottom metal culverts and the surrounding stream banks should be reinforced with gabions and joint plantings of alder and willow.

Actions: A new bridge was installed as a condition of the water main upgrade resulting in exception ATV and city vehicle access across Little River.

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A newly (2010) constructed bridge over Little River can be viewed in the background as ACAP staff conduct riparian vegetation work along the man-‐made Phinney Hill Stream.

The Little River Restoration Association has developed a number of suggestions for improvements to the reservoir and surrounding area. Their main goal is to develop a recreational park complete with walking trails for the residents of east Saint John to enjoy. Their goal is to create a natural and environmentally friendly trail system allowing people to relax and enjoy walking in a natural setting.

Action: The Little River Restoration Association has successfully partnered with Irving Oil Ltd. to develop the aforementioned trail system. This work commenced in 2011, including a new bridge over Little River that is expected to be completed in 2012.


Native riparian vegetation has been reduced in various locations throughout this section. The first location encountered in need of increased vegetation is located along the left stream bank as Little River leaves the reservoir. The left bank vegetation has been reduced by the aquaculture facility located beside the bank. An inquiry of this facility should be conducted to ensure the aquaculture practices meet provincial standards for operation near a watercourse.

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The second area in need of re-‐vegetation is located along the right stream bank where Simonds High School sports field is located. The manicured lawn of the field and surrounding sidelines extends to the right bank of Little River. A small portion of the bank is reinforced with gabions, however the gabions are loose and sagging towards the stream. The un-‐reinforced portions of the bank are eroding as the stream flows, particularly with increased water levels. By increasing the native riparian vegetation, such as alder and willow, banks stabilization reducing erosion is only one of the benefits. The reduced erosion will also decrease the sediment load deposited into the stream and the vegetation will provide canopy cover and in stream wood debris, creating better fish habitat.

The third area with a significant decrease in riparian vegetation is the sand plume created from the mass wasting of sand from a nearby sand pit into Silver Falls Reservoir. The sand plume has resulted in removal of all riparian vegetation and an increase in the area of the shoreline. The sand plume should be physically removed to restore the bank to the natural shape and the use of fascines with live staking can be installed in tiers to create a multi-‐leveled barrier against future mass wasting. A fascine is a method, using bundles of live dormant cuttings, allowing large amounts of riparian vegetation to take root establishing a health population within a small time frame.

Action: ACAP Saint John (2007) created a barrier to the movement of sand into the Silver Falls Reservoir. The barrier was constructed of large pieces of shale, with grass and rose bushes planted across the plume channel to reduce water velocities and increase opportunities for vegetation. The rock barriers were also constructed to deter ATV traffic which had created the furrows that channeled water and sand into the reservoir.

Barrier to sand deposition in the Silver Falls Reservoir of Little River.

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Chemical analyses of the murky and orange water from the small tributary connecting from the south should be conducted. The test will reveal the composition of the substances causing water discolouration in the steam and whether they are detrimental to the health of wildlife using the stream.

Recreational ATV use is common throughout this section, particularly behind Simonds High School and near the Silver Falls Reservoir. The trails show the frequent use by the presence of deep ruts, muddy pools, and eroded trail edges, which result in a general widening of the trails. There are portions where these trails come close to, in contact with, or cross the stream. The small tributary from the south is crossed twice by ATV trails. The first crossing allows the stream to cross under the trail through two culverts. Further downstream another trail crossed the tributary over branches local residents have deposited into the stream. The branches are causing a blockage in the stream reducing the natural flow. This makeshift crossing should be removed and redesigned to provide an environmentally friendly crossing for recreational ATV.


The natural beauty of Silver Falls should be preserved and maintained.

A closer look at the Silver Falls Dam is suggested. The dam should not be inhibiting fish passage and should include a fish ladder.


This section is currently managed by Ducks Unlimited.


The crossing beneath the railroad is in poor condition. A new train bridge should replace this old culvert crossing. Also the old, unused crossing should be removed allowing the stream to flow freely.

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Graham Brook

Graham Brook has a total length of 7.36 km originating from a Finnegan’s Bog located just above Churchland Road to the Little River Reservoir where it meets Little River. The stream flows through a forested, boggy, and residential area. Based on changes within the stream Graham Brook is divided into three sections for management.

Figure 9: Aerial photo of Graham Brook indicating the three management sections.

Stream Section


1 Long Lake

Cleanup of refuse along stream banks, preserve undeveloped lake shore.

1 Long Lake

Monitor runoff from agriculture to ensure water quality and safety.

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2 Loch Lomond Road Increase riparian vegetation

2 Entire Length of Section Conserve vast natural areas

3 Concrete Dam

Replace or repair dam with a new one allowing better fish passage (incorporating open-bottomed culverts)


Proper ATV crossings should be installed where appropriate


A cleanup of the area should be conducted to remove the litter deposited along the stream banks.

The well-‐vegetated and currently undeveloped shore of Long Lake should be preserved.

Long Lake appears to be well buffered from Lakewood Stables, however water quality tests should be conducted to ensure the fecal coliform levels are within acceptable boundaries. Manure piles from the stable may increase the fecal coliform levels. Bacteria can be transported via rainwater runoff into the lake.


Increase the native riparian vegetation along the stream banks near Loch Lomond Road.

Conserve the natural areas that presently exist within this stretch.


The dam located near Little River Reservoir is in very poor condition. This dam should be replaced and a new open bottom culvert should be installed where Graham Brook crosses the dirt access road to allow better fish passage.

If ATV use is not eliminated from the Little River Reservoir and surrounding area, then an appropriate stream crossing should be installed where an ATV trail crosses Graham Brook.

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Actions: Refer to Little River Reservoir Association and City of Saint John activities in Section 3.

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Buck Lake Tributary

The Buck Lake Tributary, as the name implies, flows north from Buck Lake, located south of Latimore Lake Road, for a length of 2.55 km to its terminus, where it intersects with Little River in the Little River Reservoir. The Buck Lake Tributary can be divided into two distinct management sections.

Figure 10: Aerial photo indicating the two management sections of the Buck Lake Tributary.

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Stream Section


1 Buck Lake

Preserve the natural lake habitat and monitor the impact of nearby resource operations

2 Latimore Lake Road

Improve culverts by using open-bottomed type

2 Latimore Lake Road

Increase natural riparian vegetation and improve canopy cover for the stream


Assess ATV crossings and create proper ATV fords where appropriate


Given the lack of development on the lake itself, no immediate action is necessary. However given all the closely bordering influences, the area should be monitored to ensure it remains as protected as possible.


The culverts under Latimore Lake Road should be improved by removing the antiquated concrete pipes and replacing them with a single large open-‐bottomed culvert. This would improve fish passage and reduce the chances of debris clogging the culverts. Riparian vegetation along the residential property on the upstream side of the road could also be improved by planting native riparian species to provide canopy and reduce runoff.

The ATV crossings near the Little River Reservoir should be given consideration, preferably with the construction of a proper bridge structure so that the vehicles do not drive through the watercourse itself.

Actions: Refer to Little River Reservoir Association and City of Saint John activities in Section 3.

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Blackall Lake Tributary

The Blackall Lake Tributary flows south from Blackall Lake, located north of Loch Lomond Road, for a length of 1.2 km to its terminus, where it intersects with Little River. This intersection is approximately half a kilometre downstream from the Little River Reservoir. The Blackall Lake Tributary can be divided into two distinct management sections.

Figure 11: Aerial photo of the Blackall Lake Tributary indicating the two management sections.

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Stream Section


1 Blackall Lake

Monitor new development to ensure minimal impact on lake habitat

1 Blackall Lake

Increase native riparian vegetation in new residential areas

1 Old Lake Trail Improve silt and road runoff protection measures

1 Entire Length of Section Organize community cleanups/awareness programs

to reduce the onslaught of litter unto the stream

2 Loch Lomond Road

Remove invasive riparian monocultures and replace with native riparian vegetation


The shoreline around Blackall Lake is experiencing residential development. This development should be monitored to find a balance between the human use of the lake and ecological concerns. The new residents should be informed of the benefits of riparian vegetation and urged to landscape their property in the most environmentally friendly manner.

Action: Construction activities including associated post development landscaping have been completed resulting in the alleviation of this issue.

The debris and collapsed silt fencing should be removed from the culvert, which carries Blackall Lake Tributary beneath Old Lake Trail. A community based clean-‐up of the area should be organized to remove the litter that has blown into the stream.


The Japanese Knotweed along the stream banks should be removed and replaced with native riparian vegetation.

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Alder Brook

The Alder Brook watershed, located in Milledgeville, Saint John, NB encompasses a total land area of 245 hectares. The watershed contains one predominant stream (Alder Brook), which originates at the southern end of Crescent Lake and extends 2.5 km to its terminus in Brothers Cove of the Kennebecasis River. Alder Brook also receives point source inputs of water from a culvert which carries intermittent runoff from a hillside near the Saint John Regional Hospital, and a small, permanent, spring fed tributary which drains from a steep northern slope in its lower section. The major watercourse contained within the Alder brook watershed can be divided into six distinct sections based upon physical characteristics.

Figure 12: Aerial view of Alder Brook divided into six distinct management sections.

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The stature of Crescent Lake as a component of Rockwood Park has provided a measure of protection against commercial or residential developments. Furthermore, Rockwood Park does not administer pesticides to its properties (Bernie Morrison, City of Saint John, personal communication), and as such, acts as a green barrier against such chemicals. It is recommended that the watershed surrounding Crescent Lake be maintained at its present state. Annual cleanups of debris from the shoreline of Crescent Lake would minimize the risks to wildlife associated with discarded fishing tackle and plastic bags.

Actions: Cleanups of litter and debris have been conducted throughout Alder Brook, and followed up with electrofishing surveys. This small stream has proven to contain an abundance of cyprinids and Brook trout.

Stream Section


1 Watershed around

Crescent Lake Maintain existing green zone around lake. Conduct annual cleanups of litter along shoreline

2 Water control

structure at outlet to Crescent Lake

Design and construct structure to enable fish passage to and from Crescent Lake

2 Throughout entire

section Increase number of pools and improve fish passage though in stream structures

2 Pond created by

wooden dam Remove old irrigation, pump structure

2 New Development Monitor new development and plant native tress

where erosion may become a problem

4 Entire section Monitor for toxins 5 Entire section Develop a plan to improve in stream fish habitat and

preserve current condition of this section

6 Outlet to Brothers

Cove Remove debris inhibiting fish passage and maintain improved

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ACAP staff conduct electrofishing survey of Alder Brook following cleanup of litter and debris from stream and riparian zones.


This upper section of Alder Brook possesses a unique opportunity to conduct fish habitat improvement work, possibly in conjunction with the Canadian Rivers Institute associated with the nearby University of New Brunswick. Specifically, an annual field course could be conducted whereby fish habitat and water quality parameters are quantified and qualified; a number of improvement options are produced, debated, decided upon, and ultimately implemented in the field. The course could monitor characteristics of the brook trout population each year and determine the success of their efforts.

Specific habitat improvement options identified in this report include increasing the amount of pool habitat, improving fish passage through the water control structure at Crescent Lake, at the man-‐made irrigation dam, and through the cascades amidst the section dominated by bedrock substrates. Removing the Styrofoam and plastic imbedded in the irrigation dam as well as the old pump housing itself would reduce the amount of debris entering the brook.

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The obvious degradation of water quality and fish habitat associated with the runoff from the former Howe’s Lake dumpsite needs to be addressed. Watercourses in Saint John have been subjected to anthropogenic stresses (including physical disruption, siltation and chemical inputs) for far too long. The activities associated with this new development should be closely monitored to assist the proponent with maintaining the environmental integrity of Alder Brook. This construction has also removed some of the vegetative cover from the riparian zone along this section that should be replaced upon the completion of activities.

Large, native trees should be planted along sections where openings in the vegetative cover occur next to University Avenue. The vegetation has proven to be an effective natural barrier against litter, debris and human activities near the watercourse.

The terminus of Section 2 occurs at a culvert that collects debris. This needs to be cleared on a regular basis to ensure fish passage and prevent bank erosion from water backing up during heavy flow periods.

Overall, the watershed in this section requires little in terms of remediation. The greatest threat comes from contaminants in the old Howe’s Lake dumpsite, and from residential developments. Ensuring that existing guidelines for working near watercourses are followed should maintain the quality of this brook.


This section of Alder Brook flows through a secluded patch of grasses and shrubs, which is surrounded by mature forest. The primary recommendation for this section is to maintain the vegetative integrity of the extended riparian zone. However, a proposed (northern variant) route for the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) pipeline cuts through the unspoiled wooded sections of the watershed (Figure 17). The removal of large trees, coupled with the unfettered access to Alder Brook that will accompany the required right-‐of-‐way for the LNG pipeline will undoubtedly reduce the existing environmental integrity and spectacular natural capital in this portion of the watershed. Specifically, the LNG right-‐of-‐way will fragment the contiguous wooded areas that exist on the northern slope of the watershed. Given the amount of large, wooded habitat in this portion of the watershed, it is recommended that the LNG right-‐of-‐way not pass through this area. However, if the LNG pipeline cuts through this portion of the watershed, measures must be taken to ensure vehicle traffic (especially ATV’s) is prevented from using the right-‐of-‐way. Such vehicles would reduce the physical integrity of the steep northern slope, and would cause considerable damage to the soft streambed. Noise pollution from such activity would also reduce the quality of life for residents of the High Ridge Road area, and could disturb any wildlife using the area for breeding. The proposed right of way would also allow for easy migration of many invasive plant species (such as purple loosestrife, Indian balsam, and

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Japanese knotweed). Given the opportunity these invasive plant species could strongly compete with native species (which currently form the riparian vegetation) for nutrients and light, resulting in a decrease of the native species.

Maintaining the existing natural capital in this section of the watershed should be a top priority for urban planners given that the number of watercourses in urban Saint John that possess the ability to provide diverse wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities for our youth are in decline. It should also be noted that any pollutants entering the upstream watercourse (for example from the old Howe’s Lake dump site) could have an adverse effect on persons using Alder Brook as a swimming hole. It is imperative that regulatory agencies ensure no chemical pollutants, especially toxins that could affect human health, be allowed to enter the Alder Brook watershed.


The lower section of Alder Brook is one of the most scenic watercourses in Saint John. The well-‐treed riparian and buffer zones, which are natural extensions of those in Section 4, are covered with white-‐tailed deer tracks and game trails. As with the previous section, maintaining the environmental integrity of this watershed is vital to conserving the invaluable natural capital in this region of Saint John. This is especially true of the small cold spring that feeds into Alder Brook, which undoubtedly helps to maintain suitable temperatures for brook trout.

A well-‐designed fish habitat improvement project would be needed to increase fish passage without detracting from the natural aesthetics of the watercourse. It is recommended that any such work be conducted with the utmost care and planning to ensure the existing cascades and waterfalls are not eliminated.


This portion of Alder Brook is the most critical for the passage of anadromous fishes. As such, the blockage caused by the beaver dam should be removed and maintained such that fish passage is possible year round.

Actions: Following an erosion-‐related breach in road integrity, the City of Saint John installed a new at Brother’s Cove culvert beneath Kennebecasis Drive, resulting in improved opportunities for the passage of diadromous fishes into Alder Brook.

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Hazen Creek

Recommendations Cleanup and dredging off estuary and stabilization of the gravel bar

Stream braided near Sewer Line and Marsh

Raised culvert under Railbed

Raised culvert under access road

Stream piped between Old Black River Road and Bourques Industrial

Culverts on Expansion Avenue should be bottomless type

Replace all culverts in with large, open bottom version

Raised culvert at Cromwell Drive

Raised culvert behind NBCC. Access blocked to upper reaches

Stream diverted by refinery in 1975. Water from Champlain heights

Raised culvert under railbed

Enhancement behind Wirsbo

Mackin Brook. Restore and protect riparian zone

Install bottomless culvert under Gulf Operator pit road above NBCC

Clean silt from brook – Mackin – between Old Black River Road and Marsh

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Action: In 2010-‐2011, improvements were made as recommended to Hazen Creek both upstream of, and directly adjacent to, the New Brunswick Community Collage [NBCC] campus on Grandview Avenue (see photo below).

An aluminium culvert modification was bolted-‐onto the hanging culvert below Cromwell Drive in 2009, allowing for improved access by fishes to the headwaters of that branch of Hazen Creek and facilitating better regulation of in-‐stream water levels.

Several management recommendations have been identified as pending in this document, owning to significant changes which are schedules for completion in the 2012-‐2013. These include the replacement of culverts under several roadways and access roads in the McAllister Industrial Park, as well as changes to existing culverts under railbeds to allow for improved drainage and fish passage. Also included are remediation projects to address stream braiding in lower Hazen Creek. These improvements represent regulated HADD compensation projects directed toward the Hazen Creek watershed.

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Figure 13: Hazen Creek between Bayside Drive and McIlveen Drive

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Figure 14: Improvements near NBCC. Photo by CBCL Limited

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Figure 15: Fish ladder installed on Cromwell Drive hanging culvert.

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Summary

All four watersheds have been subjected to alterations since the original watershed management plans were developed in 2006. These management plans have served as an excellent guide to directing fish habitat compensation requirements (“HADD”) towards issues of priority. Management priorities over the next five years should focus on ‘big ticket items’ associated with HADD requirement of infrastructure developments, so as to advance overall watershed integrity as quickly as possible. Specifically, Marsh Creek needs to see an improvement in the accessibility of diadromous fishes through the Courtenay Bay tide gates now that the largest pollution issue (raw sewage discharges) will be alleviated by Harbour Cleanup. Hazen Creek should have the multitude of hanging culverts resolved to enable diadromous and resident fishes access to upstream habitats. Little River should have the concrete dam at the outlet of the Rez modified to enable upstream passage of fish, and Alder Brook requires the barrier between it and Crescent Lake (beneath Sandy Point Road) alleviated to enable upstream movement of fish.

Overall, there has been a net improvement of fish habitat in all four watersheds, indicating the value of the original 2006 watershed management plans. It is expected that this report will provide a renewed focus on resolving the remaining issues in each of the four aforementioned watersheds, while helping to elucidate the importance of preventing new problem.

Watershed Management in Saint John: 2011 Updates

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