Surry County Tidal Marsh Inventory

Transcription

1 ollege of William and Mary W&M ScholarWorks Reports Surry ounty Tidal Marsh Inventory Kenneth A. Moore Virginia Institute of Marine Science Gene M. Silberhorn Virginia Institute of Marine Science Follow this and additional works at: Part of the Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology ommons Recommended itation Moore, K. A., & Silberhorn, G. M. (1981) Surry ounty Tidal Marsh Inventory. Special Reports in Applied Marine Science and Ocean Engineering No Virginia Institute of Marine Science, ollege of William and Mary. This Report is brought to you for free and open access by W&M ScholarWorks. It has been accepted for inclusion in Reports by an authorized administrator of W&M ScholarWorks. For more information, please contact

2 SURRY OUNTY TIDAL MARSH INVENTORY Special Report No.187 in Applied Marine Science and Ocean Engineering Kenneth A. Moore VIRGINIA INSTITUTE OF MARINE SIENE, SHOOL OF MARINE SIENE, OLLEGE OF WILLIAM AND MARY Gloucester Point,Virginia 262 MAY 1981

3 SURRY OUNTY TIDAL MARSH INVENTORY Special Report No.187 in Applied Marine Science and Ocean Engineering Kenneth A. Moore Gene M. Silberhorn,Project Leader VIRGINIA INSTITUTE OF MARINE SIENE, SHOOL OF MARINE SIENE, OLLEGE OF WILLIAM AND MARY Gloucester Point, Virginia 262 Dr. William J. Hargis, Jr., Director MAY 1981

4 AKNOWLEDGEMENTS Funds for the publication and distribution of this report have been provided by the State of Virginia and the Department of ommerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of oastal Zone Management, Grant, Number I would like to express my thanks to Mr. Richard Smith for his field assistance. I wish also to thank Dr. Gene Silberhorn, Mr. Walter Priest and ol. George Dawes for their constructive criticisms and review of this manuscript. For assistance in the report preparation I am indebted to the VIMS photographic and art departments. In addition I would like to thank ol. Joseph Mizell for help with the data tabulation. Finally, sincere thanks to Mrs. arole Knox and Mrs. Nancy White for typing the various drafts and the final manuscript. ii

5 SURRY OUNTY TIDAL MARSH INVENTORY TABLE OF ONTENTS Acknowledgements ii Introduction Methods Marsh Types and Evaluation Marsh Types and Their Environmental ontributions Evaluation of Wetland Types Marsh P 1 ants Glossary of Descriptive Terms ' Reference Map to Wetland Sections Section I. Upper hippokes reek Page Section II. James River laremont to Swanns Point Section III. Grays reek Section IV. rouch reek Section V. Lower hippokes reek Section VI. Hog Is land Section VII. Lawnes reek Index to Marsh Locations iii

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7 INTRODUTION This publication is one in a series of marsh inventory reports compiled by the Department of Wetlands Ecology and Environmental Impact Assessment, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, ollege of William and Mary. Previously published reports may be obtained from the library, VIMS, Gloucester Point, Virginia 262. This report is presented in,much the same format as the preceeding reports. Under section of the Virginia Wetlands Act, the Virginia Institute of Marine Science is obligated to inventory the tidal wetlands of the ommonwealth. The inventory program is designed to assist wetland boards, cities, counties, planning districts and other local, state and federal agencies as well as the general public and private industry. This document, along with its companion, the Shoreline Situation Report, Surry ounty, Va., 1976, VIMS SRAMSOE No. 112, 5 p., present an inventory and discussion of many shoreline parameters and characteristics. A previously published study, Guidelines for Activities Affecting Virginia Wetlands, Silberhorn, Dawes and Barnard, 1974, VIMS SRAMSOE No. 46, will be helpful in the utilization of this report. Excerpts from the above document are included in the following text, explaining marsh vegetation types and their evaluation. The reader is also referred to Tidal Wetland Plants of Virginia, Silberhorn, 1976, VIMS Educational Series No. 19, an illustrated field guide describing each of the plants listed in the Act. All documents are available upon request from the library at VIMS. 1

8 The wetlands located within Surry ounty total nearly 185 acres. Of this total approximately 5 percent are composed of species such as arrow arum, wild rice and beggar ticks, which generally are found only under freshwater and slightly saline conditions (Types VII, XI). The remaining areas are dominated by big cordgrass (Type V), a species associated with areas of low to moderate salinities. The wetlands are located for the most part in the numerous tidal creeks which are found along the James River. Except for the region known as Hog Island, the majority of Surry ounty bordering the James River is devoid of marsh areas. This is primarily due to the high energy nature of the river's shoreline, which precludes the establishment of marshes. The distribution of marsh plant species in Surry ounty generally follows that of the salinity gradient of the James River. For example, the most upstream creeks in Surry ounty such as Upper hippokes reek (Section I) are dominated largely by freshwater species. Those creeks found along the middle sections of Surry ounty including Grays reek and Lower hippokes reek (Section V), have primarily freshwater species throughout much of their lengths, with increasing brackish water areas near their mouths. The downstream marsh areas of Hog Island (Section VI) and Lawnes reek (Section VII), in contrast, are composed largely of brackish water species, with freshwater plants found only in the most upstream section of Lawnes reek where the freshwater runoff remains largely unmixed with saltwater. Salinity at any particular site is controlled to a great extent by the flow of the James River. After a surrnner of drought for example, salinities throughout all of Surry ounty's tidal waters may be considerably increased. The majority of tidal wetlands in Surry ounty remain as unaltered natural areas. Exceptions include Sunken Meadow Pond (Section II), a former tidal creek which has been dammed for many years, and Hog Island, a brackish water area that has been diked to form a shallow water impoundment which is managed to provide a feeding and resting area for migrating waterfowl. The remaining unaltered marshes serve in many ways including valuable wildlife habitats and as confirmed nursery and spawning areas for many fish species, including the striped bass, American and hickory shads, river herring and alewife. 2

9 METHODS Aerial photographs and topographic maps (U.S.G.S.) were utilized to obtain wetland locations, wetland boundaries and patterns of marsh vegetation. Acreages and wetland boundaries were substantiated by observations on foot, by boat and by low level overflights. Individual plant species percentages are quantitative estimates of coverage based on visual field inspections of every marsh. In some instances, especially in tidal freshwater areas, those percentages are subject to seasonal bias. Marshes one quarter of an acre or larger are designated by number. Many marshes smaller than one quarter acre (usually narrow fringing marshes) are designated by the same symbol (shaded) as the larger marshes on the section maps but assigned no number. Small marshes (less than one acre) are exaggerated and are not indicated to scale. Information such as individual marsh acreage, plant species percentage and acreage, marsh type, and other observations are recorded in tabular form. Plant species percentages are recorded to the nearest percent, and acreages to the nearest tenth of an acre. In marshes of less than one acre, the species are recorded to the nearest hundredth of an acre. In tho.se instances where an individual plant species is estimated to amount to less than.5 percent, the symbol() is used to indicate a trace amount. In unusual situations where an individual marsh is estimated to contain 5 percent or more of a species that is not listed as a marsh type, the closest applicable marsh type is used. For example, a marsh which is judged to contain 6 percent wild rice would be listed as Type XI (Freshwater Mixed).

10 Marsh Types and Evaluation For a better understanding of what is meant by marsh types, some background information is required. The personnel of the Department of Wetlands Ecology and Environmental Impact Assessment have classified twelve different, common marsh types in Virginia, based on vegetational composition. These marsh types have been evaluated according to certain values and are recorded in the Guidelines report. The following is a brief outline of the wetland types and their evaluation as found in that publication: "It is recognized that most wetlands areas, with the exception of the relatively monospecific cordgrass marshes of the Eastern Shore, are not homogeneously vegetated. Most marshes are, however, dominated by a major plant. By providing the manager with the primary values of each community type and the means of identification, he then has a useful and convenient tool for weighing the relative importance of each marsh parcel. In Virginia, many wetlands management problems involve only a few acres or a fraction of an acre. The identification of plant communities permits the manager to evaluate both complete marshes and subareas within a marsh. "Each marsh type may be evaluated in accordance with five general values. These are: "1. Production and detritus availability. Previous VIMS reports have discussed the details of marsh production and the role of detritus which results when the plant material is washed into the water coltmm. The term "detritus" refers to plant material which decays in the aquatic system and forms the basis of a major marine food web. The term "production" refers to the amount of plant material which is produced by the various types of marsh plants. Vegetative production of the major species has been: measured, and marshes have been rated in accordance with their average levels of productivity. If the production is readily available to the marine food web as detritus, a wetlands system is even more important than one of equal productivity where little detritus results. Availability of detritus is generally a function of marsh elevation and total flushing, with detritus more available to the aquatic env:iironment in the lower, wellflushed marshes. 4

11 "2. Waterfowl and wildlife utilization. Long before marshes were discovered to be detritus producers, they were known as habitats for various mammals and marsh birds and as food sources for migratory waterfowl. Some marsh types, especially mixed freshwater marshes, are more valuable because of diversity of the vegetation found there. ". Erosion buffer. Erosion is a common coastal problem. Marshes can be eroded, but some, particularly the more saline types, are eroded much more slowly then adjacent shores which are unprotected by marsh. This buffering quality is derived from the ability of the vegetation to absorb or dissipate wave energy by establishing a dense root system which stabilizes the substrate. Generally, freshwater species are less effective than saltwater plants in this regard. "4. Water quality control. The dense growth of some marshes acts as a filter, trapping upland sediment before it reaches waterways and thus protecting shellfish beds and navigation channels from siltation. Marshes can also filter out sediments that are already in the water column. The ability of marshes to filter sediments and maintain water clarity is of particular importance to the maintenance of clam and oyster production. Excessive sedimentation can reduce the basic food supply of shellfish through reduction of the photic zone where algae grow. It can also kill shellfish by clogging their gills. Additionally, marshes can assimilate and degrade pollutants through complex chemical processes, a discussion of which is beyond the scope of this paper." "5. Flood buffer. The peat substratum of some marshes acts as a giant sponge in receiving and releasing water. This characteristic is an effective buffer against coastal flooding, the effectiveness of which is a function of marsh type and size. 5

12 "Research and marsh inventory work accomplished by VIMS personnel indicate that 1 species of marsh vegetation tend to dominate many marshes, the dominant plant depending on water salinity, marsh elevation, soil type, and other factors. The term "dominant" is construed to mean that at least 5% of the vegetated surface of a marsh is covered by a single species. Brackish and freshwater marshes often have no clearly dominant species of vegetation. These marshes are considered to be highly valuable in environmental terms." Marsh Types and Their Environmental ontributions (Edited from Guidelines for Activities Affecting Virginia Wetlands) Type I Type II Type III Saltmarsh ordgrass ommunity a. Average ydeld 4 tons per acre per annum. (Optimum growth up to 1 tons per acre). b. Optimum availability of detritus to the marine envirodment. c. Roots and rhizomes eaten by.waterfowl and stems used in muskrat lodge construction. Also serves as nesting material for various birds. d. Deterrent to shoreline erosion. e. Serves as sediment trap and assimilates flood waters. Saltmeadow Gomniuhity a. 1 tons per acre per annum. b. Food (seeds) and nesting areas for birds. c. Effective erosion deterrent. d. Assimilates flood waters. e. Filters sediments and waste material. Black t:foedlerush ommunity a. 5 tons per acre per annum. 6

13 b. Highly resistant to erosion. c. Traps suspended sediments but not as effective as Type II. d. Somewhat effective in absorbing flood waters. Type IV Saltbush ommunity a. 2 tons per acre per annum or less. b. Nesting area for small birds and habitat for a variety of wildlife. c. Effective trap for flotsam. Type V Big ordgrass ommunity a. 6 tons per acre per annum. b. Detritus less available than from Type I. c. Habitat for small animals and used for muskrat lodges. d. Effective erosion buffer. e. Flood water assimilation. Type VI attail ommunity a. 24 tons per acre per annum. b. Habitat for birds and utilized by muskrats. c. Traps upland sediments. Type VII Arrow ArumPickerel Weed ommunity a. 24 tons per acre per annum. b. Detritus readily available to marine environment. c. Seeds eaten by wood ducks. d. Susceptible to erosion from wave action and boat wakes, particularly in winter months. Type VIII Reed Grass ommunity a. 46 tons per acre per annum. b. c. Little value to wildlife except for cover. Invades marshes and competes with more desirable species. d. Deters erosion on disturbed sites. 7

14 Type IX Type X Type XI Yellow Pond Lily ommunity a. Less than 1 ton per acre per annum. b. over and attachment site for aquatic animals and algae. c. Feeding territory for fish. Saltwort ommunity a. Less than.5 tons per acre per annum. b. Little value to aquatic or marsh animals. Freshwater Mixed ommunity a. 5 tons per acre per annum. b. High diversity of wildlife. c. High diversity of wildlife foods. d. Often associated with fish spawning and nursery grounds. e. Ranks high as a sediment trap and nursery grounds. Type XII Br ackish Water Mixed ommunity a. 4 tons per acre per annum. b. Wide variety of wildlife foods and habitat. c. Deterrent to shoreline erosion. d. Serves as sediment trap and assimilates flood waters. e. Known spawning and nursery grounds for fish. 8

15 Evaluation of Wetland Types (From Guidelines for Activities Affecting Virginia Wetlands) For management purposes, the twelve types of wetlands identified above are grouped into five classifications based on the estimated total environmental value of an acre of each type. Group One: Saltmarsh ordgrass (Type I) Arrow ArumPickerel Weed (Type VII) Freshwater Mixed (Type XI) Brackish Water Mixed (Type XII) Group One marshes have the highest values in productivity and wildfowl and wildlife utility and are closely associated with fish spawning and nursery areas. They also have high value as erosion inhibitors, are important to the shellfish industry, and are valued as natural shoreline stabilizers. Group One marshes should be perserved. Group Two: Big ordgrass (Type V) Saltmeadow (Type II) attail (Type VI) Group Two marshes are of only slightly lesser value than Group One marshes. The major difference is that detritus produced in these marshes is less readily available to the marine environment, due to higher elevations and consequently less tidal action to flush the detritus into adjacent waterways. Group Two marshes have very high values in protecting water quality and acting _as buffers against coastal flooding. These marshes should also be preserved, but if development in wetlands is considered to be justified, it would be better to alter Group Two marshes than Group One marshes 9

16 Group Three: Yellow Pond Lily (Type XI) Black Needlerush (Type III) The two marshes in the Group Three category are quite dissimilar in properties. The yellow pond lily marsh is not a significant contributor to the food web, but it does have high values to wildlife and waterfowl. Black needlerush has little wildlife value, but it ranks high as an erosion flood buffer. Group Three marshes are important, though their total values are less than Group One and Two marshes. If development in wetlands is considered necessary, it would be better to alter Group Three marshes than Groups One or Two. Group Four: Saltbush (Type IV) The saltbush community is valued primarily for the diversity and bird nesting area it adds to the marsh ecosystem. To a lesser extent it acts as an erosion buffer. Group Four marshes should not be unnecessarily disturbed, but it would be better to concentrate necessary development in these marshes rather than disturb any of the marshes in the preceding groups. Group Five: Saltwort (Type X) Reedgrass (Type VIII) Based on present information Group Five marshes have few values of any significance. While Group Five marshes should not be unreasonably disturbed, it is preferable to develop in these marshes than in any other types. For a better understanding of Virginia's wetlands in general, the Wetlands Act of 1972, and marsh types and their evaluation, the following publications are recommended: 1

17 oastal Wetlands of Virginia Interim Report No. 2 Special Report in Applied Marine Science and Ocean Engineering No. 27 Kenneth Marcellus, July 1972 Virginia Institute of Marine Science Gloucester Point, Virginia 262 Laws of Virginia Relatin g to Wetlands and Subaqueous Waters Virginia Marine Resources ommission 241 West Avenue Newport News, Virginia 267 Wetlands Guidelines Virginia Marine Resources ommission 241 West Avenue Newport News, Virginia 267 Tidal Wetland Plants of Virginia Gene M. Silberhorn, April 1976 Educational Series No. 19 Virginia Institute of Marine Science Gloucester Point, Virginia

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19 Arrowhead Arrow Arum Ash* Bald ypress Beggar Ticks Big ordgrass Black Gum Black Needlerush Button Bush ardinal Flower* attails ommon Narrowleaved ommon Threesquare Dodder* Giant Bulrush Ironweed* MARSH PLANTS ommon and Scientific Names as found in the Data Tables Sagittaria falcata Pursh Peltandra virginica (L ) Kunth Fraximus spp. Ta.:xodium distichum (L.) Richard Bidens spp. Spartina cynosuroides (L.) Roth Nyssa sylvatica Marshall Juncus roemerianus Scheele epha.lanthus occidentalis L. Lobelia ca.rdina.lis L. Typha latifolia L. Typha angustifolia L. Scirpus americanus Persoon uscuta spp. Scirpus validus Vahl *Marsh species not included in Virginia's Wetlands Act of Vernonia noveboracensis (L.) Michaux 1

20 Jewel weed* MarshFleabane Marsh Hibiscus Marsh Mallow* Marsh Milkweed* Orach* Pickerel weed Reed Grass Saltbushes Groundsel Tree Marsh Elder Saltmarsh Aster* Saltmarsh Bulrush Saltmarsh ordgrass Saltmeadow Grasses Saltgrass Saltmeadow Hay Sedge* Smartweed MARSH PLANTS (continued) Impatiens capensis Meerb. Pluchea purpurascens (Swartz) D. Hibiscus moscheutos L. Kosteletzkya virginica (L.) Presl. Asclepias incarnata L. Atriplex patula L. Pontederia cordata L. Phragtn.ites australis (av) Trin ex Steud. Baccharis halimifolia L. Iva frutescens L. Aster tenufolius L. Scirpus robustus Pursh. Spartina alterniflora Loisel. Spartina patens (Aiton) Muhl. Distichlis spicata (L.) Greene arex stricta Lam. Polygonum spp. *Marsh species not included in Virginia's Wetlands Act of

21 Southern utgrass Spikerush Swamp Rose* Switch grass Tear Thumb* Walter's Millet* Water Dock Waterhemp Water Parsnip* Wild Pea or Partridge Pea* Wild Rice Wool Grass Wool Reed or Wool Reedgrass MARSH PLANTS (continued) Leersia oryzoides (L.) Swartz Eleocharis spp. Rosa palustris Marsh Panicum virgatum L. Polygonum arifolium L. Echinochloa walteri (Pursh) Nash Rumex verticillatus L. Ama rahthus canhahina (L.) J. D. Sauer Sium suave Walt. assia fasciculata Michaux Zizania aquatica L. Scirpus cyperinus (L.) Kun th Gihna arurtdihacea L. *Marsh species not included in Virginia's Wetlands Act of

22 Glossary of Descriptive Terms ove Marsh A marsh contained within a concavity or recessed area on a shoreline. The marsh vegetation is usually found surrounding a central, openwater pond, and tidal flushing is permitted through an inlet. reek or Embayed Marsh A marsh occupying a drowned creek valley. In many large creek marshes the salinity decreases headward; this type of marsh may be divided for inventory purposes into sections if significant changes in the plant community occur along its length. Delta Marsh A marsh growing on sediment deposited at the mouth of a tidal creek. Tidal exchange through the creek mouth is usually restricted to narrow channels by the marsh. 16

23 Glossary of Descriptive Terms Extensive Marsh A large marsh where the length and depth or width are roughly comparable. Most extensive marshes are drained by many tidal channels and creeks which have little freshwater input. Fringe Marsh A marsh which borders a section of shoreline and generally has rmteater length than ::: High Marsh The marsh surface is at an elevation of mean high water or above; it is usually inundated less than twice daily by tidal action. Low Marsh The marsh surface is at an elevation below mean high water; it is usually inundated twice daily by tidal action. 17

24 Glossary of Descriptive Terms Marsh Island An isolated marsh surrounded on all sides by open water. Interior portions of the marsh may contain trees scattered at highest elevations. Pocket Marsh A marsh contained within a small, essentially semicircular area on a shoreline. Point or Spit Marsh A.marsh which extends from the uplands in the form of a point or spit. Its development is usually influenced by tidal currents that form a sand berm behind which the marsh forms. _///// 18

25 la. REFERENE MA WETLAND SETIO INDEX MAP SURRY OUNTY 19

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27 SETION I. UPPER HIPPOKES REEK Upper hippokes reek marks a portion of the western boundary of Surry ounty and its shoreline is illustrated on two map plates (IA, IB). Since the Surry ounty line is located down along the middle of the main creek channel only those marshes located along the southern shoreline are described here. The tidal waters of Upper hippokes reek remain fresh throughout much of the year. Only during periods of prolonged low rainfall and low James River flow, usually occurring during the fall season, will the creek be subject to brackish water. As a result, this general lack of salinity allows the plant communities found within marshes of the creek system to be composed largely of freshwater species (Types VII, XI). This situation may be compared to the other creek systems of Surry ounty (Section VI) located further down the James River where the occurrence of species such as saltmarsh cordgrass (Type I) mark the increased effect of saltwater. The marshes found within Upper hippokes reek are very diverse but for the most part are composed of arrow arum, pickerelweed, wild rice, cattails, beggar ticks and jewelweed as well as scattered bald cypress. They are considered highly valuable in environmental terms for they act as a valuable food source for many species of fowl and serve as well as an excellent wildlife habitat. The creek is a confirmed nursery and spawning area for fishes of the genus Alosa, a group which includes species such as American and hickory shad as well as river herring and alewife. Other important species such as catfish, white perch, carp, and largemouth bass are also common throughout its tidal waters. 21

28 + SALE I : 2.e, FEET r I I \ \ 646 I ' \ _.,, J / \, ',,,''I I SETION lb. UPPER HIPPOKES REEK 22

29 TAYLORS ORNER + I\) w SALE 1 : 2, FEET 8 / UPPER HIPPOKES REEK

30 Section I. Upper hippokes reek Marsh Location,,,. D I :::,,,,.9 D :,,, E D c <.> a. u,.&: :,,, l u,,,, E E :.'! f c ; D D <.> D :::, :. l U: <> E l D :::, D. i= l. l.s;;.s;; a. D.!! <{.; ".s;; D :,,, a. :::, ::i:,,, <{.&: " >, D :i D a. : l" u,. LL I I. I l D l.s;; m u,.!!!. l..&: D D D.; l.&:..&:..&: D. D : :. l..&: l.&: o:;2 l. _.,. E :.'!.!!! e E '6.!!! E u, E:::, D l J:! :::i :. <>. :!:: "2..&:. E D l l :::, l ::: l..r:. ;; l t:; l O:i l D l l l. <( a. :, l) (D :::E,= j cno (D (!) :::E :::E,= 1,= iii cno :::E l) (D l)!) Observations :::E a,b,d,e, Fringing marsh areas at f,g, grade to woody swamp; area VII a,b,d,e, disrupted by gravel pits. Upper % head of creek; marshes 1 hippokes 6. reek acres f,g, a,b,d,e, Upper % Arrow arum dominated creek hfig'k 5 2 hippokes marsh; scattered swamp 1.4 reek afg;_e, trees such as red maple. VII acres h,.1,k,.7 Upper O/o hippokes.5 reek ocres a,b,c,d, reek marsh section dom e,f,g,k, inated by arrow arum with a,b,c,d, abundant cattails; grades 9.2 e,f,g,k, to swamp along upland. VII 4 Upper o/o a,b,c,d, reek marsh section of pre hippokes reek 25.6 ocres e,f,g,h, Upper o/o hippokes 96.6 e,f,g,h, dominately arrow arumwith a,b,c,d, other species throughout; XI upstream half of marsh has been dammed. a,b,d,e, Extensive creek marsh f,g,h,r, section of largely arrow a,b,d,e, arum with overstory of XI reek ocres f,g,h,r, wildrice and beggar ticks. a,b,d,e, Extensive creek marsh secf,g,h,r, tion of arrow arum with 6 hippokes 81.9 overstory of wild rice & XI reek a,b,d,e, acres f,g,h,r, beggar ticks; stands of cord"rass alnn",ml on.a Upper % Upper O/o a,b,d,e, Pocket marsh area dominat 7 hippokes.7 ed by arrow arum; other VII reek species throughout with acres a,b,d,e, cypress along upland. reek marsh of primarily Upper % a,b,d,e, arrow arum with overstory 8 hippokes 22.8 reek of beggar ticks; scatter acres a,b,d,e, ed cypress, especially alon" unlands. a Button Bush d ironweed g Swamp Rose j Reed Grass m Saltmarsh Aster p Black Needlerush s Wool Reed b Black Gum e Spike rush h Walter's Millet k Wild Pea n Switch Grass q Atriplex cash f Sedge i Marsh Mallow I Dodder o Salt bushes r Wool Grass 24 VII

31 E c, "O :, I "O Q II> l) "O. ; l) l) E l) :. l) :, j:: <[ <[ a; : &.. : :i: I I c. : l) a; &. o:;;;.. : E Marsh l) l) :fl: Location <[ a., en {!!. ID ::e Upper "lo hippokes 1.7 reek acres O/o Brandon Gut 27.8 acres O/o Total 1. Section I. [acres Section I. Upper hippokes reek (continued). a. l) a. &. c : E :!! l) "O l). 2 l) LL a. :, &. l) "O. >, l) a. O" I c l) &. ii: ID.,,, &.. : &. l).!! l) OI : :!:! :, "O..!! E :!! :, c :: &. : j cno ID <[ c::5 ::e :::E : II> Q : l) e a. "O LL "O. &...,: E. &.!! E OI E :, l) "O l;. &. OI O:i o l) OI &. II> l) &. fl)!!!.. l) l)._ : iii l) ::e en ID l) ) Observations :::E a,1 Marsh island of predominately arrow arum; scattered cypress and other VII a, species. a,b,c,d, reek marsh of arrow arum e,f, with overstory of beggar a,b,c,d, ticks, jewelweed, etc. e,f, scattered cypress other swamp species. a, c, e, g, k, 5 b, d, a, c, f, h, r, e, g, k, b, d, f, h,.1 r, XI a Button Bush d lronweed g Swamp Rose j Reed Grass m Saltmarsh Aster p Black Needlerush s Wool Reed bblack Gum e Spikerush h Walter's Millet k Wild Pea n Switch Grass q Atriplex cash fsedge i Marsh Mallow I Doder 25 o Salt bushes r Wool Grass

32 SETION II. JAMES RIVER LAREMONT TO SWANNS POINT The shoreline found along this section of Surry ounty is illustrated using three map plates. For the most part it is devoid of marsh areas. This is primarily due to the erosive force of the James River which precludes the establishment of tidal marsh along much of its shoreline. There are numerous small tributary streams (e.g. Broad Swamp) which drain into the river and these are usually found vegetated with woody swamp species dominated by bald cypress. Generally these streams are perched from the river by a high, sandy beach and although they are valuable habitats they would not be considered contiguous to tidal waters by Virginia's wetlands definition. Sunken Meadow Pond (IIA), a manmade impoundment, is another valuable wetland area found along this section of shoreline. Most of the regularly inundated wetlands found along this section of this river (IIB, II) consist of intermittent fringes of bald cypress with an accompanying understory of jewelweed. These species generally occur at an elevation near mean high water on the river bank with the jewelweed found growing in patches only a few feet wide. Swann's Point (II) marks the only significant areas of tidal wetlands found here. These marshes are vegetated for the most part by big cordgrass with arrow arum and pickerelweed more abundant in those marshes (#11, 12) that have slightly restricted tidal flooding. 26

33 .. JAME RIVER + SALE I : 2A, FEET SETION Ila. JAMES RIVERLAREMONT TO SWANNS POINT " > 27

34 SETION llb. JAMES RIVERLAREMONT TO SWANNS POINT + SALE 1 : 24, fht FOUR MILE TREE EASTOVER 6 28

35 SETION lie. ' JAMES RIVERLAREMONT TO SWANNS ' POINT \ ' \ \ \ ' FOUR MILE TREE SWANNS POINT 11 + SALE 1 : 24, FEET 29

36 Section II. James Riverlaremont to Swann's Point.,. I,::,.!:!,::., :::,.,..t:., E G> "l c (.).:a:..,., E c ;,::, E (.),::,.:a:. i:i: e, : c (.) (.) Q. :::,, i=.t:.,:: (I).,::,, :::, c,,.c!?.t:.,::, >, <( <('a;.t:. :i: (.) >,. :i a.,:: 17 1!., rn., I I I.t:.., I ii: m..t:.., (.).t:.,. 1,.t:...c..,::.;..c, E..t:. o::,;;;.,, c,, c,, (.) E E Marsh, c,,,::, e E.l!!. c '.E ::J. :.,::, c == (.).c. E, ', c,, :::,, := l, 41: Location {!!. j.c,,, ::,. <( a., en m ::E,': J)(.) m c5 ::E ::E,': (.) I (.) (.),': ii'i J) (.) ::E cnm J) (!) Observations ::E % 45 d,f,h,i, Spit marsh 5 separated from 1 25 o,n, river by berm with cypress; 11 Swanns Point.5 d,f,h,i, interior of arrow arum XI acres o,n, mixed with big cordgrass. O/o d,f,h,i, Long, narrow pocket marsh 12 Swanns Point 2.8 formed between ridges XI acres of upland...6 d,f,h,i, % 2 2 d,f,i, Pocket marsh formed 75 Black Duck o,n, along branch of creek; 1 Gut 16.1 dominated by big cordgras, V acres d,f,i, with other species o,n, throughout. Black Duck 14 Gut.8 % d,f,i, reek marsh dominated by big cordgrass; arrow arum, hemp and hibiscus more acres d,f,i, abundant towards head. V 15 Haystack Gut 4.6 O/o d,f, acres d,f, of cattails. Pocket marsh dominated by big cordgrass with some arrow arum; several stands V O/o 22 d, h, 1 n, Total f, i, o, 6.8 Section II d, h, n, acres f, i, o, a Button Bush d lronweed g Swamp Rose j Reed Grass m Saltmarsh Aster p Black Needlerush s Wool Reed bblack Gum e Spike rush h Walter's. Millet k Wild Pea n Switch Grass q Atriplex cash f Sedge i Marsh Mallow I Dodder o Salt bushes r Wool Grass

37 SETION III. GRAYS REEK This section of Surry ounty describes the marshes of Gray's reek, an important wetlands system with over 58 acres of highly productive tidal marsh. The influence of salinity is evident along the lower third of the creek length as big cordgrass (Type V) which can tolerate slightly brackish water is found to dominate the marshes in this area. The upper two thirds of the creek are vegetated for the most part with arrow arum (Type VII) and wild rice (Type XI), species which can tolerate only low salinities. At the head of the creek system this freshwater marsh community grades to woody swamp. This swamp area is generally nontidal, but may be flooded during periods of exceptionally high tides. The wetlands located along this largely undisturbed creek are highly valuable in environmental terms. Not only do the marshes produce large quantities of organic material for the estuarine system but the seeds, roots and rhizomes of the plants supply an important food source for many species of waterfowl and other wildlife. The creek system is also a valuable habitat for many types of fish, including resident freshwater and brackish water species. It serves as well as a spawning and nursery area for various Alosa species including river herring, alewife, American and hickory shad. 1

38 + SALE 1 : 24, FEET 8 SMITH FORT SETION Ill. GRA VS REEK I 2

39 Section III. Grays reek Marsh ;. 16 I l) E () ; <t <t.; c o::;2 1:. () Location.'.i a: % 1 Grays reek 1. acres.1 l).q E () :::, 1:.r. i= I I.; c> 1: l E :, (/) m 5.1 l) :::, () fl> :.c :i:.r. ::E 5.1 l) Q. l) E.r. : Q. () fl> I > G> ii: (.).r. o :!:! :::, :::, c i (/) m 5.1.r. 1: e <t Q..r. c fl> fl>. :::, : " m fl>.r.. l) 1: : >< E f c::: o.r. s ::E ::E I f l) 1: LL c : 'i:i (.) l) fl> () e l.r. fl>._ (.) eo.!!!.._ 2.!!! :!:: l "E co (.) iii (/) :.Q LL.r. ::E 1:.r. fl>.r. l>., E:::, E g:;.r.._ (/) m (/) (!) Observations d,f,i, Small pocket marsh; big cordgrass dominates with d,f,i, other species mixed; cypress along upland edge Q..r. V % 25 Grays reek 86.1 acres O/o 2 Grays reek 84.1 acres 16.8 % 4 Grays reek 2.4 acres 8.2 % 5 ross reek 24.4 cres 12.2 Grays reek 1.6 O/o 75 acres 1.2 O/o 4 Grays reek 66.1 acres d,f,g,h, Extensive creek marsh i,j,n, section dominated by big d,f,g,h, cordgrass; arrow arum, i,j,n, other species more abund "". ;,,.;.!,, d,f,g,h, Extensive creek marsh i,j,n, section dominated by big. d,f,g,h, cordgrass; arrow arum, wild rice more abundant i,j,n,.;.:.:,.,. d,h,i, Marsh section with decrease in big cordgrass but more wild rice and d,h,i, arrow arum than in adjacent marsh section. d,e,f,g, Large pocket marsh domi h,i, naed by arrow arum; wild rice abundant in interior, d,e,f,g, upstream portion of h,i, marsh. d,h,i, Fringing marsh; dominated d,h,i, by arrow arum with abundant water hemp and wild rice. b,d,e,f, Extensive marsh section; g,h,i, dominated throughout by b,d,e,f, wildrice and arrow arum; other species scattered. g,h,i, V V XI VII VII XI 2 O/o 55 Grays reek 56.6 acres 1.2 a Button Bush d lronweed g Swamp Rose j Reed Grass m Saltmarsh Aster b,d,e,f, Extensive marsh section g,h,i, dominated by arrow arum b,d,e,f, with wild rice; isolated g,h,i, upland area in middle of marsh. p Black Needlerush s Wool Reed VII bblack Gum e Spikerush h Walter's Millet k Wild Pea n Switch Grass q Atriplex cash f Sedge i Marsh Mallow I Dodder o Saltbushes r Wool Grass

40 Section III. Grays reek (continued) :fl: 24 Marsh Location I. ; E II> u <( <tai. '.. <( a O/o 55 Grays reek 17.4 acre! 9.6 E " u ::, ' i= '.c I I..;. g ' E., en {!!. m 1.2 ::, u :a :i:.c ::E Q. E rn.c fl> Q. u. >, I. ii: (.).c. :l:? ::, ::, : j en o m c '. <(.!:.c 2. :i ::, a er m.c rn. 'E rn ' E '" == o.c ::E::E : (.) I 1.2. ' u:: 'o. (.) " u..c. e..!!?. (.) eo! _o. (.) : ai en o 2. u::.c. ::E '.c '. o rn E::,. E.c O:i o enm enc, Observations b,d,e,f, reek marsh sedtion g,h,i,1, of predominately arrow arum b,d,e,f, and wild rice; cypress g,h,i,1, along upland edge. Q..c ::E VII 25 O/o 55 Grays reek 12. acres b,d,e,f, Fringing marsh areas at g,h,i,1, head of creek; marsh b,d,e,f, borders along areas of g,h,i,1, wooded swamp. VII Hulls Slash Gut Peach Orchard Gut O/o acres 29. % acres 8.6 O/o 5 Grays reek 52.7 acres 26.4 Grays reek 6.5 Grays reek 7.4 % 55 acres.6 O/o 5 ocres.7 O/o 5 Grays reek 17.4 acres b,d,f, reek marsh of predomih,i, nately arrow arum mixed VII b,d,f, with wild rice; other h,i, species scattered throughb,d,f, reek marsh which extends out. h,i, back to pocket area; mostly arrow arum and wild VII b,d,f, rice; cypress along h,i, unland. d,e,f, reek marsh dominated by h, arrow arum with wild rice; other species throughout VII d,e,f, with cattails along h, uplands. d,e,f, Pocket marsh of mostly h,i, arrow arum and wild rice; d,e,f, cattails in interior; VII h,i, cypress along upland. d,f,i, Pocket marsh dominated by j, arrow arum and wild rice; d,f,i, abundant beggar ticks VII j, throughout, d,e,f, reek marsh dominated by i, arrow arum and wild rice; VII d,e,f, abundant beggar ticks and i, hemp throughout. a Button Bush d lronweed g Swamp Rose j Reed Grass m Saltmarsh Aster p Black Needlerush s Wool Reed bblack Gum e Spike rush h Walter's Millet k Wild Pea n Switch Grass q Atriplex cash fsedge i Marsh Mallow 1 Dodder 4 o Saltbushes r Wool Grass

41 Section III. Grays reek (continued) # Marsh Location I "l E., u! ; < <a"; e> o:;;i: u <a. "lo 5 Grays reek 6.5 acre 2. O/o 4 Grays reek 5.6 acres 2.2 "lo Grays reek 41.5 cres 12.5 "lo 5 Grays reek 4. acres 2. "l.c,. l "l E u l l ::, l 1:.c i= I 1: I.; 1: G) E l., en {!. m ::, u :a ::i:.c :E Q. E l l.c l II> Q. u I > l (.).c.,_ P.? :!:! ::,.,_ "l ::, = j en o m "l l.c 1: e <.c a, a, 2 ::, "l l a. a m a,.c l a, 1:.? E l :: o.c :E ::E = (.) I l 1: u: 'o (.) a,. u e.c a,!!! 1:!._._ l (.) E"" :!:: "E co (.) = ii:i en o l.c, l u:.c :E 1:.c a, "l.c II> a, l l E::, E a, a, :i._ enm ene> l c.c Observations d,e,f, Pocket marsh of predomi h,i, nately arrow arum and wild rice; abundant hemp and d,e,f, beggar ticks h,i, throughout. d,e,f,h, Broad fringing marsh of i,j, mostly arrow arum and wile rice; scattered hemp and d,e,f,h, XI beggar ticks with cattail, i,j, along uoland. d,f,h, Big cordgrass dominates i, interior of marsh; scatd,f,h, tered stands of sedges V i, with cattails at head of oockets d,f,i, d,f,i, Arrow arum dominates with other species scattered throughout; cypress along spit. l Q..c ::E XI VII O/o 4 TOTAL SETION III 582. acres , b, e, g, i, 1, d, f, h, j, n, b, e, g,, i, 1, d, f, h, j, n, a Button Bush d lronweed g Swamp Rose j Reed Grass m Saltmarsh Aster p Black Needlerush s Wool Reed bblack Gum e Spikerush h Walter's Millet k Wild Pea n Switch Grass q Atriplex cash f Sedge i Marsh Mallow I Dodder 5 o Saltbushes r Wool Grass

42 SETION IV. ROUH REEK The marshes found within the rouch and Timber Neck creek system are the only significant tidal wetland areas found along this section of Surry ounty shoreline. The plant communities are composed of both brackish and freshwater species with arrow arum (Type VII) and big cordgrass (Type V) being most abundant. Generally, big cordgrass dominates the downstream marsh areas with arrow arum most abundant upstream. At the heads of both main creek branches the marsh in turn grades to areas of woody swamp. Although there has been some filling of marsh areas along Route 67, this creek system has remained relatively undisturbed by man's activities. It should be considered highly valuable in environmental terms, since it serves as important waterfowl and wildlife habitat as well as a valuable habitat and nursery area for finfish. 6

43 + SALE 1, 24, SETION IV. ROUH REEK 7

44 Section IV. rouch reek :I: 6 7 Marsh Location I "O :!! E ;! ; <( ci <(.; ;st o:;;;.. <( a. % 4 rouch reek 1. acres 4. O/o rouch reek 2.8 acres.8 "O.<> "O "" E., :,.c: j:: I I..;..., E.,.,, en 1. al :, : :i:.c: :::1: 1.1 Q. E., :!!.c: Q. :.2._ rn >, I., _ a:.c:. u :E "O "O.,.c: e 4 ::, :, : /lu ID.9.c: : 2 :, "O., Q. : O" al c., UI. : ' E :!! :: o.c: c5 :::1::::1: : UI i:.: u.,.,.t= "E.,!!!... 2., u :t:"e E u : i:i:i /lu :.<>.!! LL.c: :::1:.s::. "O..c:.,., E :, E..., :!:: c "5. /l al en c, Observations d,f,h,i Pocket and fringe marsh j,o, dominated by arrow arum with abundant big cordgrass d,f,h,i hemp, beggar ticks; secj,o, tion along road is filled. d,f,h, reek marsh; mostly big i,s, cordgrass and arrow arum; d,f,h, other species scattered i,s, throughout.., Q..c:. ::E XI XI 8. O/o 5 rouch reek 26.1 acres d,h, reek marsh section; big f,1 i,l cordgrass mixed with d,h, arrow arum; scattered f,2.6,i,. sedges, cattails, hemp. XI O/o 5 rouch reek 28. acres 14. O/o 45 Timber Neck reek 7. acres 16.7 O/o Timber Neck reek 27.s acres so. 1. 7!b,d,e,g,h, Upstream section of creek i,s, f, marsh; arrow arum predomib,d,e,g,h, inates with overstory of i,s, f,.8 beggar ticks; grades to swamp, b,d,f,g, Upstream portion of creek i,h,1 marsh branch; dominated o,a,r,g, by arrow arum with other i,h,.4 species scattered throughout& d,h,i,s, reek marsh section; dam f,s inated by big cordgrass d,h,i,s, with abundant arrow arum; f, 1.4 other species scattered. VII XI V 42 O/o rouch reek 12.6 acres i,s, reek marsh section; big f,1 h,1 cordgrass mixed with i,s, arrow arum; other species f,o.lh,o. scattered throughout, XI O/o 9 TOTAL 144. SETION IV acres b, e, g, i, o, d, f, h, j ' s, b, e, g, i,. o, d, f,4.9 h,.5 j, s, a Button Bush d lronweed g Swamp Rose j Reed Grass m Saltmarsh Aster p Black Needlerush s Wool Reed b Black Gum e Spikerush h Walter's Millet k Wild Pea n Switch Grass q Atriplex cash f Sedge i Marsh Mallow I Dodder 8 o Saltbushes r Wool Grass

45 SETION V. LOWER HIPPOKES REEK This section of Surry ounty shoreline includes over 285 acres of wetlands found within ollege Run and Lower hippokes reek. The remainder of the shoreline, bordering obham Bay, is composed largely of eroding bluffs and sandy beach, and as such is generally unsuitable for tidal marsh development. Within ollege Run there is a large area of marsh (#4) which is connected to the river via a long, narrow channel across a sand beach. The marsh is characterized as a freshwater mixed community (Type XI) but contains large stands of big cordgrass (Type V). It appears that the marsh is slowly being replaced by swamp species, such as red maple, which dominate most of the upstream portion of the creek basin. The basin is apparently filling in with eroding upland sediments, thereby increasing the marsh elevation and reducing tidal inundation. Lower hippokes reek consists primarily of freshwater and brackish tidal marsh areas but grades to woody swamp at its head. Of these marsh areas the lower half of the creek is dominated by big cordgrass (Type V), while in the upstream sections arrow arum, cattails and other freshwater species (Type VII, XI) become more abundant. On the whole, the marsh areas found here should be considered highly valuable natural areas because of their production of organic material as well as their value to wildlife and finfish. 9

46 SETION V. LOWER HIPPOKES REEK SALE 1 : 2.il, FEET BAYSE PT. OBHAM BAY + e,18 8 4

47 Section V. Lower hippokes reek :fl: 4 44 I E D :!! et <t " <t c Marsh o:ii: Location. " <ta. O/o 25 ollege Run 27.2 acres 6.8 % Lower 2 hippokes 1.5 reek acres..q.,. D E G) G) G) :::,.c i= " I I... o o D E G),!/) D :::, :i5 :i:.c :'.! :ii Q. E D G).c Q. >, I ". G) ii:..c. D :!:! :::, o :::, c,:!1) D i G).c. <t Q..c c :!! 2 :::, G) a. ' D. D.., E G) E :!! o::: o.c t5 :E:E,: 1. D ii: c.,. ". 'E. o.c.!!!... G) E"" o "E co,: iii!/) l D.Q G) ii:.c :'.! :ii.c..c D D E:::, E G) :!::.!: o.c :::,.!/l D!/) (!) Observations b,h,f,5 Pocket marsh that grades upstream to large wooded swamp; tidal flushing lb,h,f,1.4 from river through,'h.,.n.,,o1.,,,. J:!. 1,,,,.,,.,.,,. Marsh fringe formed in front of sand spit at mouth of creek. Q..c. ::f XI XII 45 O/o Lower 15 hippokes 7.8 reek [acres d,f,h,o, reek marsh section dominated by big cordgrass arrow arum and other d,f,h,o, species scattered. V O/o 25 Lower hippokes 48.6 reek cres 12.1 O/o 4 Lower hippokes 1.6 reek acres.6 % 55 Lower hippokes.9 reek acres , d,f,h,j' reek marsh of largely big cordgrass; water hemp and arrow arum d,f,h,j' throughout; cattails along uolands. reek marsh of arrow arum d,f,h, with overstory of water he!"p,catails, big cord d,f,h, grass; cypress along upland. reek marsh of arrow arum b,d,f,h, with scattered water hemp and cattails; cypress b,d,f,h, along upland. XI XI VII 49 O/o Lower 5 hippokes 14. reek acre! d,f,g, d,f,g, reek marsh of arrow arum mixed with cattails and water hemp; other species scattered VII 5 O/o Lower 5 hippokes 4.2 reek acres 2.1 a Button Bush 5.2 d lronweed g Swamp Rose j Reed Grass 1. m Saltmarsh Aster reek marsh of predomd,f, inately arrow arum mixed with cattails; other d,f, species throughout. p Black Needlerush swool Reed VII b Black Gum e Spike rush h Walter's Millet k Wild Pea n Switch Grass q Atriplex cash fsedge i Marsh Mallow I Dodder 41 o Saltbushes r Wool Grass

48 Section V. Lower hippokes reek (continued) :fl: 51 Marsh I " E u ; <( <( "a;. a o::;;;. u <( Location. O/o Lower 5 hippokes 17. reek acre! 8.7 " Q " E u c: i= I I. "a;.. l l E, l) ID ::, ::, u :a r c: f :E.. " c:. < E c: :.!:!. >, I a,. a: (.)., c:. l c :E :::o :E ::, :: l)(.) ID c: : ID c:. E c '.? E :: c: f 2. ::, :i " : " i:d :E :E :: 1. ii: a : (.) u l c: U) "E._ :.., c c l!:: "E._ (.) E c, (.) :: id IJU : Q ii: c: f :E c: ". c: a,.,.., E::, E :t: c: O:i._ IJ ID l), Observations d,f,h, d,f,h, reek marsh areas at head of creek; arrow arum with other species throughout; grades upstream to swamp.. ;: c: f ::E VII 52 5 O/o Lower 5 hippokes.2 reek acres 1.6 O/o astle 55 Mill Run 5.5 acres d,e, d,e, f, f, reek marsh section; predominately arrow arum mixed with cattails other species scattered. Pocket marsh area; arrow arum dominates with abundant water hemp; scattered cypress. VII VII O/o Lower 5 hippokes 49.1 reek acres 17.2 O/o 4 Lower hippokes 1.4 reek Qcres f,4 reek marsh section; j, arrow arum mixed with big f,1.9 j, d,f, d,f, cordgrass, cattails, watet hemp; scattered wild rice others. Small pocket marsh; arrow arum mixed with abundant cattails and water hemp. XI XI 56 O/o 4 Lower hippokes 2.4 reek acres d,f, d,f, reek marsh section of arrow arum mixed with big cordgrass, cattails, water hemp. XI 57 O/o Lower 45 hippokes. 7.6 reek acres d, reek marsh of arrow arum f.5 mixed with big cordgrass d, and water hemp; sedge, f,.4 other species scattered. XI 58 Lower O/o hippokes 17.6 reek acres 5.2 a Button Bush d lronweed 5.9 g Swamp Rose j Reed Gross m Saltmarsh Aster p Black Needlerush Large pocket marsh dominated by big cordgrass with understory of arrow arum; other species scattered. s Wool Reed V bblack Gum e Spikerush h Walter's Millet k Wild Pea n Switch Grass q Atriplex cash f Sedge i Marsh Manow I Dodder 42 o Salt bushes r Wool Grass

49 Section v. Lower hippokes reek (continued) :fl: 59 6 I "1:1 E :!! <> ; <( <( "a; : Marsh o:;;; <> Location. <( Q. % Lower hippokes, 2.9 reek acres.9 O/o 15 Lower hippokes 6.5 reek acres 1. TOTAL SETION V.. O/o acres 84.4 "1:1,. "1:1 E <> :::, : j:: :.c. I I. "a;. OI : OI E {!!. (/) aj l l.6.6 :::, <> :i5 :i:.c.. ::E l 2.1. E..c. a,. I <> >,.. ii:.c.. OI c :5! :::, "1:1 :::, ci ': (/)t) m "1:1.c. : e. <(..c. c 2 :::, :i "1:1 Q..,. m.c.. U>.,, :.l!!. E o::: o.c. tli ::E ::E ': 1. : ii: :.;.,..,, e <> OI.c. "1:1.!!! E OI c c!: E OI ': iii (/)t) ii:.c. f ::E :.c. "1:1..c..,,.,, E:::,. E..c. O:i o. w m (/) (!) Observations d,f, d,f,j, d,f, d,f,j, b, e, g, j, d, f,l h, o, b, e, g, j, d, f,.7 h, o, Pocket marsh dominated by big cordgrass with understory of arrow arum; other species scattered. reek marsh dominated by big cordgrass; other species scattered...c.. :IE V V a Button Bush d lronweed g Swamp Rose j Reed Grass m Saltmarsh Aster p Black Needlerush s Wool Reed bblack Gum e Spike rush h Walter's Millet k Wild Pea n Switch Grass q Atriplex cash fsedge i Marsh Mallow I Dodder 4 o Saltbushes r Wool Grass

50 SETION VI. HOG ISLAND This section of Surry ounty includes over 6 acres of tidal wetlands found along the large peninsula known as Hog Island. Much of the interior of the peninsula, which consists of former tidal marsh areas that have been diked, is managed as a shallow water State Waterfowl Refuge. The water in these impoundments is drawn down during the growing season to encourage the growth of food plants, some of which are planted. During the fall and winter months these areas are flooded to facilitate waterfowl access to the food, as well as to provide a resting area. Although this management scheme produces a shallow, openwater environment favorable for waterfowl it has effectively removed hundreds of acres of tidal wetlands that would have been beneficial to the estuarine environment. What remains of tidal wetlands on Hog Island consists largely of the lower sections of tidal creeks which have been truncated at some distance from their mouths by manmade dikes. The marsh vegetation is dominated primarily by big cordgrass (Type V) but the saline nature of the area is evident by the presence of many species such as saltmarsh cordgrass, saltmeadow grasses and saltmarsh bulrush, that are tolerant of brackish water. The nontidal, interior sections of Hog Island are vegetated in large part by plant species such as bulrushes and threesquares which are valuable food sources for waterfowl. However, there still exists remnant stands of big cordgrass and other species characteristic of the formerly existing tidal marshes. 44