NEW ENGLAND

Melvin River

Moultonborough, NH

 

In a study of the Melvin River, FBE performed a habitat suitability and geomorphic study, evaluating fish passage barriers, erosion and bank scour, streambed substrate and composition, vegetative riparian buffer, canopy cover, connectivity to the river's floodplain, and other attributes. We partnered with engineers at Streamworks and fish biologists at New Hampshire Fish and Game (NHF&G) to conduct a rapid geomorphic assessment, stream crossing assessment, and native fish survey to build a broader understanding of the system. The project report outlines recommendations, project ideas, and restoration actions based on the study findings.

 

Langley Brook

Laconia, NH

 

FBE was hired by the Lake Winnipesaukee Alliance (LWA) under a Local Source Water Protection grant from the NH Department of Environmental Services to conduct a hydrologic and geomorphic assessment of Langley Brook in Laconia, NH, one of four major streams that discharge into Paugus Bay—the City’s primary drinking water supply. FBE completed an existing conditions analysis and hydrologic analysis, which included modeling annual pollutant loads and discharge estimates for recurrence intervals using the data products from the existing conditions analysis. We identified remediation opportunities to address the sediment and nutrient loading from Langley Brook to Langley Cove to protect recreational access and drinking water quality.

 

Hale Brook

East Alstead, NH

 

FBE conducted a stream geomorphic survey of Hale Brook, a small stream located in East Alstead, NH, to investigate potential sediment sources to the stream and ultimately to Lake Warren. Residents noticed a significant change in sediment loading within the stream without a known cause or source. FBE conducted a stream walk and rapid geomorphic assessment of reaches wherever there was a major change in stream habitat or morphology. FBE also documented any unusual conditions such as areas that needed stormwater runoff remediation, stream bank stabilization, or debris clearing. We provided a summary of observed geomorphic conditions and apparent causes, along with recommendations for stabilizing sediment sources and improving the water quality of Hale Brook.

 

Pleasant Lake

Deerfield, NH

 

FBE was hired to investigate the drainage area of the Rt 107 Inlet Stream to the southern cove of Pleasant Lake in Deerfield, NH and document the potential sources contributing to sediment accumulation in the cove. Accumulated sediment in the cove has embedded critical shoreline habitat and reduced recreational access by residents due to the shallow water. The investigation included a culvert survey, a rapid geomorphic assessment of the Rt 107 Inlet Stream, and a stormwater drainage network survey (i.e., land use runoff, road shoulder/ditch erosion) along Rt 107 on both hillslopes to the Rt 107 Inlet Stream culvert. Special attention was paid to sediment particle size and distribution, condition of banks (e.g., undercutting), in stream sediment deposition (e.g., sand bars), etc. This provided insight on the sediment and flow dynamics of the stream and showed where major sediment issues were occurring along the stream.