Water Resources

Chapter 3

This chapter has numerous sections. Please refer to the Table of Contents below, if you're looking for one section.

How Water Is Replenished

Watersheds

Meriden's Rivers and Streams

Stream Ecology

Floodplains

Lakes and Ponds

Wetlands

Vernal Pools

Groundwater and Aquifers

Water is a significant element of Meriden’s landscape, history, economy, and culture. Streams, ponds, and reservoirs are prominent throughout the city. Meriden is also home to internationally award-winning bottled water for best-tasting water. Flooding has had a tremendous impact on Meriden’s economy and responding to flooding problems has brought numerous changes to downtown. Trails and other recreation rely on waterways, and the Quinnipiac River Watershed Association is headquartered in Meriden.

Meriden has twelve named ponds and reservoirs, nine named streams and tributaries, and numerous ponds and vernal pools. Water also occurs underground in aquifers and groundwater. Water is constantly moving, returning to the sky or the sea. The latter movement occurs in established drainage patterns that are defined as watersheds. Watersheds are a defining component of Meriden’s natural landscape. Within these watersheds, waterways and water bodies interconnect with one another. For example, Crow Brook is a tributary to Harbor Brook, while Harbor Brook is a tributary to the Quinnipiac River. The Quinnipiac runs through Meriden and forms the center of the South-Central Coastal Basin of Connecticut. The whole South-Central Coastal Basin drains 482 square miles of Connecticut, of which the Quinnipiac watershed is approximately 166 square miles.

3.1 How Water Is Replenished

An adequate supply of water is essential to all living things providing not only the water needed for biological functioning but also the water needed by the food web and natural environment life cycles. Living things are actively rejuvenating and replenishing themselves and require a consistent and reliable water supply to succeed. Water is very similar and must also actively rejuvenate and replenish itself.

As precipitation falls, surface water drains into the streams and rivers, adding to the current flow while the rest of the water soaks into the ground, recharging groundwater and aquifers. Meriden has several aquifers and six well fields which are a major source of the public water supply.

This graphic provided by CT DEEP illustrates the “hydrological cycle” that rejuvenates and replenishes water throughout the natural world. Plant transpiration is vital to this replenishment, strengthening the evaporation part of the hydrological cycle.

This section describes the critical elements of the process that produces an adequate supply of healthy water and discusses the direct relationship that water resources have with each other. An in-depth explanation of the water cycle can be found on DEEP’s website, listed in the “Resources” at the bottom of this section.

3.1a Watersheds

A watershed is defined as all the land and waterways that drain into the same body of water, breaking down into Regional, Subregional, and Local level watersheds. In Meriden’s 24 square miles, surface water drainage begins at the peak of one of six subregional watersheds. Three drain 89% of the city’s land area (the Quinnipiac River, Harbor Brook, and Sodom Brook). Meriden has eleven local watersheds.

The environmental conditions of the landscape in these watersheds are a primary factor in the success of the water cycle’s processes to rejuvenate and replenish water. Maintaining healthy and sustainable landscapes significantly improves nature’s ability to provide the quantity and quality of water needed. These watersheds also support numerous animals and plants, which benefit from a healthy environment and contribute to the water cycle's success in various ways. Water is a powerful force of nature, and disruptions in the watershed can result in flooding, erosion, and other damage. Abundant and diverse native plants in the watershed reduce the threat of flooding and erosion.

Definitions of Watershed Hierarchy provided by UCONN’s Connecticut Environmental Conditions Online

This image shows one view of the Quinnipiac River Gorge Trail, courtesy of the City of Meriden’s website.

A map of the Watershed and Local Basins shows the Major Basin, Regional, Subregional and Local Watersheds of Meriden (City of Meriden).

Watersheds/Local Basins

These watersheds support numerous animals and plants and reduce the effects of flooding. Watersheds include aquatic and terrestrial life, as both are dependent on the water that watersheds provide. Watersheds are vital for migratory species that come through Meriden.

The Quinnipiac River Watershed Association, based in Meriden, focuses on creating informed and fun events to encourage the community to act as informed stewards. The QRWA, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CTDEEP), and the EPA developed the Quinnipiac Watershed Action Plan to address water quality issues of the Quinnipiac and its tributaries.

3.1b Meriden's Rivers and Streams

The Quinnipiac River is Meriden’s largest stream. At Hanover Pond, it meets with Harbor Brook and Sodom Brook, significant, medium-sized streams, making the Quinnipiac downstream of Hanover Pond substantially larger. Smaller streams and headwaters occur throughout Meriden, and most feed into one of these larger streams. The following section describes Meriden’s nine named streams and the landscapes that border them in the paths they follow.

This description of the Quinnipiac River Gorge is broken down into two sections:

Upstream of Meriden

From its origin near the border of Farmington and New Britain, the Quinnipiac runs through the cities of New Britain, Plainville, Southington, Milldale, and Cheshire, before entering Meriden. Notably, the river runs along and near Interstate 84. About half of the buffer is semi-developed in residential and commercial areas, with the river running through natural areas. The area is home to most of the animals found in Meriden - both resident and migratory. A large portion of the buffer is a wetlands forest with Red Maples and other wetland trees. The larger buffer size helps offset the harmful effects of the proximity to heavy traffic. Before entering Meriden, the Quinnipiac runs through the Quinnipiac Recreation Area/Treatment Plant in Cheshire.

The Gorge to Hanover Pond (impoundment of the Quinnipiac)

The Quinnipiac River Gorge in Meriden follows the same path as State Highway 70/River Road. This segment maintains a significant buffer between the banks of the river and the recreational trails. The Quinnipiac River Gorge Trail, running alongside the segment, is also a popular spot for hiking and canoeing. The Quinnipiac Trail runs along the side of the river before meeting the Meriden Linear Trail by Hanover Pond. There are multiple scenic viewing areas. The trail is handicap accessible, and this part of the Quinnipiac Gorge is stocked with trout. The segment flows into Hanover Pond under the Red Bridge that marks Oregon Road. The waterway is rapid and provides streamflow bordered by steep wooded ridges. The segment is relatively close to roadways, and a large buffer would help offset the effects of traffic and impervious surface runoff.

The Quinnipiac River Gorge is a large segment of the river flowing approximately 1.3 miles. Its eastern banks are bordered mainly by wooded wetlands, while the western and southern banks are close to River Road and residential property. The significant buffer around this section of the Quinnipiac is mainly made up of native vegetation in streamside woods, which acts as riparian buffers. More about necessary vegetation for stream health is described in this document's Floodplains and wetlands sections. Given the proximity of other important natural areas, the Quinnipiac River Gorge and its buffers represent important resources for protection from floods and wildlife habitat.

This description of the Quinnipiac River downstream of Hanover Pond is broken into three segments:

Confluence at Hanover Pond

In Hanover Pond, the Quinnipiac joins Sodom Brook and Harbor Brook, and the confluence increases the Quinnipiac flow as it continues south. Located between Oregon Road and State Highway 70, the Hanover Pond area provides multiple trails for recreation, fishing, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Many migratory species frequent the area, including aquatic species and birds.

New Hanover Avenue to Wallingford

The dam in Hanover Pond forms a sizable waterfall and features an innovative Archimedes Screw hydroelectric project and fish ladder. The river follows near New Hanover Avenue and Old Colony Road. On the other side, it is bordered by South Meriden and the former landfill across from the Meriden Airport. The river then crosses State Highway 150 and Church Street. Along this section, the buffer is generally significant but faces potential challenges as the river comes close to residential and commercial property and several major roads. This portion of the river offers suitable habitat for most of the wildlife found in Meriden and has a good array of native plants, while the stream flow is swift and scenic. Public access is somewhat limited. However, there have been proposals to extend the linear trail to cross Hanover Pond and continue to Wallingford.

Wallingford to Long Island Sound

Downstream from Oak Street, the Quinnipiac is a larger stream flowing about 20 miles before draining into the Long Island Sound and flows through Wallingford, into North Haven, and empties into the New Haven Harbor. Downstream, the water’s flow coincides with several dedicated natural areas, such as the Quinnipiac River State Park, which has well-maintained wooded regions and several Quinnipiac trails. The river maintains a significant buffer as it travels to the Sound.

The actions and efforts of multiple municipalities in the watershed area of 165 square miles work together to protect the health of the Quinnipiac River and the buffer. At the same time, established best practices can be employed in the roadway and private landscapes that can significantly improve the protection of the stream. Given the proximity of other important natural areas, the Quinnipiac and its buffers represent important resources for protection of wildlife habitats and from floods.

This description of Harbor Brook is broken into four segments:

Upper Reaches

Two small streams act as headwaters, and . From its origin near Bilger Farm state agricultural area by Westfield Road, Harbor Brook crosses under Bee Street, flows through a significant buffer of woods and wetlands, and connects with Spoon Shop Brook before crossing under Wilbur Cross Parkway. It flows into Baldwins Pond. The headwater called North Harbor Brook also starts near Bradley Hubbard Park and runs across the Hunter Golf Course. North Harbor Brook crosses Westfield Road and flows behind residential areas with a significant wooded and wetland buffer into Baldwins Pond. North Harbor Brook also flows through Giuffrida Park, one of Meriden’s largest parks. In these upper reaches, there is numerous wildlife and plant life, which can be attractive to any recreational activity.

Baldwin Pond to the Meriden Green

Before crossing under Westfield Road and North Broad Street, the stream reaches Brookside Park. The park provides lots of trees and is part of a pollinator pathway. It is a medium stream with undeveloped buffers that are generally substantial, especially in the wetlands, although residential areas reduce the buffer in some spots. A small portion of the buffer is a wetlands forest with Red Maples and other wetland trees. Wildlife can be seen or heard from Baldwins Park and Brookside Park. After the stream leaves Brookside Park, it crosses under Interstate 691 and flows between Camp Street and Pratt Street, running through several commercial areas. Crossing under Center Street, the brook runs through several commercial areas. This part of the stream’s buffer is limited. The buffer is a suitable habitat for small species and a seasonal movement corridor. Because of the nearby roads and small buffer, there is little protection for the stream in this section.

Meriden Green

Harbor Brook flows through the Meriden Green, with a small natural buffer area. Due to the park setting, the buffer is surrounded by mainly grass and sparse trees. Additional natural areas are planned for the Green and along Harbor Brook. is a small stream that runs under Colony Street to join Harbor Brook in the center of Meriden GreenSeveral walking paths are at the Meriden Green, and public events are hosted at the amphitheater. The Meriden Green is located downtown and serves as a flood storage area. More description of Meriden Green can be found in the Parks and Recreation section.

Downstream of Meriden Green to Hanover Pond

This segment is currently being worked on for flood control, so the buffer is mostly a construction zone. The future stream and buffer conditions will be determined by how the flood control work and linear trail extension are done. Crossing through Main Street, the stream flows next to several more commercial areas, crossing Cook Avenue and flowing next to Bronson Avenue Park. Once the stream crosses Columbus Avenue, it meets Hanover Street. This area’s buffer is also limited. After crossing Hanover Street and Bradley Avenue, the stream meets Sodom Brook and empties into Hanover Pond. The undeveloped buffers in this section are substantial as the stream runs behind Glen Hills.

According to QRWA, Harbor Brook is one of the five largest tributaries of the Quinnipiac River at over 5 miles long. Roadways and private property mostly border its banks. The actions of the Connecticut Department of Transportation and property owners pose a significant threat, mainly due to a generally small and compromised buffer. At the same time, there are established best practices that can be employed in the roadway and private landscapes that can significantly improve the protection of the stream. Given the proximity of other important natural areas, Harbor Brook and its buffers represent important resources for wildlife habitat and protection from floods.

This description of Sodom Brook is broken into two segments:

Victoria Drive and Hicks Avenue to Interstate 691
From its origins near Victoria Drive and Hicks Avenue, Sodom Brook flows past Mule Well Field and the Meriden Mall, crossing Interstate 691. The brook flows under Hicks Avenue in a culvert that is much too small to handle flooding events. The brook often overflows the culvert and crosses the road, and in high flood events will flow down Bailey Avenue Extension. The section of the brook once it crosses Hicks Avenue is flat and meandering and bordered on both sides by residential development. This area's buffer is narrow and limited, providing suitable habitat for small species and a seasonal movement corridor. It is a medium stream with undeveloped buffers that are generally substantial, especially in the wetlands, although commercial landscaping near the mall reduces the buffer in some spots. Around the playing fields of Columbus Park, the area is home to most of the animals found in Meriden - both resident and migratory. A small portion of the buffer is a wetlands forest with Red Maples and other wetland trees. The larger buffer size helps offset the harmful effects of the proximity to heavy traffic. There is no real public access; however, wildlife can be seen or heard from the parking lots of businesses, and the foliage displays are easily viewed from roads and streets.
Interstate 691 to Hanover Pond

After crossing under Interstate 691, Sodom Brook passes John Barry Elementary School, Columbus Park, and several neighborhoods and residential areas, crossing Springdale Avenue, West Main Street, and Coe Avenue. Because of the nearby roads and small buffer, there is limited protection for the stream in this section. After crossing Coe Avenue, Sodom Brook runs along one of the Meriden Linear Trails (see Trails under Public Access). For a mile and a half, Sodom Brook also borders the playing fields for Lincoln, Pratt, and Wilcox schools. The undeveloped buffer in this section provides great habitat for larger terrestrial species and nesting habitats.

Sodom Brook is a medium stream, and its banks are bordered mainly by roadways and private property, except at South Mountain and around Hanover Pond. The actions of the CT DOT and property owners pose a significant threat, mainly due to buffer behind schools and along the linear trail. At the same time, there are established best practices that can be employed in the roadway and private landscapes that can significantly improve the protection of the stream. Given the proximity of other important natural areas, Sodom Brook and its buffers represent important resources for wildlife habitat and protection from floods. Sodom Brook flows has been observed to have white-tailed deer, bobcats, coyotes, red foxes, black bears, copperheads and other snakes, eastern box turtles, a variety of amphibians (salamanders and frogs), barred owls, great-horned owls, screech owls, red-tailed and other hawks, and a variety of songbirds, insects, small mammals, etc.

This description of Willow Brook is broken down into three sections:

Bishop Pond to Pomeroy Ave and the Engine Company 5 Firehouse
From its origin at Bishops Pond, Willow Brook crosses under Research Parkway and flows behind businesses on Research Parkway and from Dog Misery Swamp, a large wetland between Research Parkway and Interstate 91. It is a small stream with undeveloped buffers that are generally substantial, especially in the wetlands, although commercial landscaping reduces the buffer in some spots. The area is home to most of the animals found in Meriden - both resident and migratory. A large portion of the buffer is a wetlands forest with Red Maples and other wetland trees. The larger buffer size helps offset the harmful effects of the proximity to heavy traffic. There is no real public access; however, wildlife can be seen or heard from the parking lots of businesses, and the foliage displays are easily viewed from roads and streets.
East Main Street to Interstate 691
At East Main Street, the stream crosses under and through the highway interchange and then flows along the west side of Route 15 [Wilbur Cross], crossing under Route 15 near Interstate 691. The undeveloped buffers in this section are limited and significantly compromised in some spots. The buffer is a suitable habitat for small species and a seasonal movement corridor. Because of the nearby roads and small buffer, there is limited protection for the stream in this section. Most of the area is private property, but there is a section bordering the campus of Maloney High School.
Interstate 691 to Baldwin Pond
After crossing under Interstate 691, Willow Brook flows to the east of Route 15 [Wilbur Cross] through a mostly residential area and joins Spoon Shop Brook, Harbor Brook, and North Harbor Brook, and the confluence flows under Route 15 into Baldwin Pond. The undeveloped buffers in this section are limited and compromised in some spots. The buffer is a suitable habitat for small species and a seasonal movement corridor. Because of the nearby roads and small buffer, there is limited protection for the stream in this section. Most of the area is private property.

Willow Brook is a small stream flowing approximately 3.5 miles, and its banks are bordered mainly by roadways and private property. The actions of the CT DOT and property owners pose a significant threat, especially due to a generally small and compromised buffer. At the same time, there are established best practices that can be employed in the roadway and private landscapes that can significantly improve the protection of the stream. Given the proximity of other important natural areas, Willow Brook and its buffers represent important resources for wildlife habitat and protection from floods.

This description of Spoon Shop Brook is broken into two sections:

High Hill to Black Pond

Spoon Shop Brook has two headwater branches. The main headwater branch begins in and flows along the power line past High Hill Orchard and Dunn Complex Ball fields. The buffer is substantial, but there are concerns about the practices of the Eversource power line. Trap rock ridges can be seen to the east. Hills, orchards, and woods are to the west until the main headwater reaches

North Spoon Shop Brook confluence to Harbor Brook

The north headwater from Preston Avenue runs through mostly undeveloped space around corporate park and Hall Farm. The two headwaters join near the intersection of interstates 691 and 91, running along Bee Street. The buffer from interstates 691 & 91 is limited and exposed to nearby roads and residents. The brook crosses under Baldwin Avenue and flows through the Carroll Park play area, joining in a wooded wetland area. Carroll Park offers public access to Spoon Shop Brook.

Spoon Shop Brook, including its headwaters, is a smaller stream that provides some recreational opportunities through Carroll Park. As it eventually flows into Harbor Brook, the buffer around Spoon Shop Brook can affect the water quality downstream.

Crow Hollow Brook begins in Hubbard Park at the Merimere Reservoir and Mirror Lake. It flows along West Main Street. After it has crossed Johnson Avenue, it flows into Sodom Brook behind Platt High School. There is a significant buffer in the Hubbard Park area, providing public access to the small stream. The buffer is more limited along West Main Street.

Meetinghouse Brook starts at an unnamed pond near Ann Street and Dryden Drive. It crosses Ann Street and Yale Avenue through residential areas near Kogut Nursery. After crossing South Curtis Street, they remain parallel for a small while. Once Meetinghouse Brook crosses North Colony Road in Wallingford, it flows into the Quinnipiac River.

3.2a Stream Ecology

The Environmental Protection Agency notes that headwaters are “the smallest parts of river and stream networks but make up the majority of river miles in the United States. They are the part of rivers furthest from the river's endpoint or confluence with another stream.” These headwaters act as small tributaries, many of which are in Meriden.

In Meriden, Spoon Shop Brook and the North Branch of Spoon Shop Brook are tributaries that drain into Baldwins Pond. Cathole Brook is a tributary that flows into Sodom Brook. Willow Brook is a tributary of Harbor Brook. Crow Brook is a tributary to Harbor Brook.

In the headwaters of Meriden, trout and other migratory fishes are vital to the ecosystem's health. These creatures rely on and contribute to stable tributary health. According to CT DEEP, when fish swim upstream for spawning, they feed off microorganisms and vegetation in the tributaries. When these fish produce waste, this waste feeds many invertebrates in the tributary and further downstream. The eggs and larvae of these fish are sensitive to the temperature changes of headwaters. Temperatures of headwaters remain stable when water quality is healthy and stable. Migratory fish species in the Meriden area include Alewife and American Shad.

Tributaries rely on riparian buffers to regulate the water temperature, prevent stream erosion, and filter runoff that tries to enter the stream (USGS). According to the American Water Resources Association, headwater streams contain species that fit into five categories:

Species unique to these headwaters
Species that are found in these and larger streams, with abundance varying on stream size
Seasonal species that move into headwaters when downstream conditions are no longer desirable
Species that require headwaters for different life stages like spawning
Species that live around the headwater streams.

Headwaters/Tributaries are crucial for ecosystem diversity. Tributaries need to have hydrologic connectivity to the floodplain for species dispersal. The American Fisheries Society notes that tributaries provide habitat for many aquatic and semiaquatic organisms, such as invertebrates, amphibians, and birds. In Connecticut, headwater streams are home to creatures ranging from herring and turtles to salamanders. Since headwaters are the smallest origins of a stream, they act as a safe place away from larger predators.

As the USGS notes, invertebrates are an essential indicator of the headwaters’ health. When invertebrates are healthy, they can shred plant and waste material, allowing fungi and bacteria to break down particles further. Harvesting these particles for food, other invertebrates, and fish use the headwaters for less competition over resources since headwater streams tend to have fewer species than downstream.

Headwaters are also responsible for the significant nutrient cycling in a river system. These tributaries deliver up to 45% of the nitrogen that flows downstream. The loss of a headwater or tributary could lead to major biogeochemical changes in river systems, leading to large areas of algal blooms, unsuitable conditions for spawning, and higher levels of pollutants.

Algal blooms are one of the largest threats to any stream or water body. When substances that contain excess nutrients like fertilizers enter a water body, it causes an overgrowth of algae. This overgrowth decreases water health by blocking out sunlight for aquatic plants and reducing the oxygen in the water. These effects create challenging conditions for any life to survive, preventing juvenile fish from reaching adulthood and clogging fish gills.

Resources

CT DEEP, Migratory Fish Runs

https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/DEEP/fishing/fisheries_management/Migratory-Fish-Runs.pdf

American Water Resources Association, “THE CONTRIBUTION OF HEADWATER STREAMS TO BIODIVERSITY IN RIVER NETWORKS”

https://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/pubs/ja/ja_meyer002.pdf

USGS, “The Quality of Our Nation’s Water”

https://pubs.usgs.gov/circ/1373/pdf/Circular1373.pdf

American Fisheries Society, “Headwater Streams and Wetlands are Critical for Sustaining Fish, Fisheries, and Ecosystem Services”

https://fisheries.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Headwaters-Paper-final.pdf

NOAA, What is Harmful Algal Bloom?

https://www.noaa.gov/what-is-harmful-algal-bloom

EPA, Nutrient Pollution

https://www.epa.gov/nutrientpollution/effects-environment

QRWA, Streamside Woods

https://www.qrwa.org/images/customer-files//StreamsideWoods.pdf

QRWA, Muddy Waters

https://www.qrwa.org/images/customer-files//MuddyWaters.pdf

QRWA, Habitats

https://www.qrwa.org/images/customer-files//Habitats.pdf

3.2b Floodplains

The Federal Emergency Management Act (FEMA) defines floodplains as “any land area susceptible to being inundated by floodwaters from any source”. According to FEMA, a floodway refers to the regulatory river channel or other water course and the adjacent land areas that must be reserved to discharge the base flood.

Flood hazard areas identified on the Flood Insurance Rate Map are recognized as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA). SFHAs are defined as the area that will be inundated by the flood event having a 1-percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. The 1-percent annual chance flood is called the base flood or 100-year flood. SFHAs are labeled Zone A, Zone AO, Zone AE, Zone AR/AO, and Zone VE. The areas of minimal flood hazard, which are the areas outside the SFHA and higher than the elevation of the 0.2-percent-annual-chance flood, are labeled Zone C or Zone X (unshaded).

A 100-year flood is a flood that will occur at least once every 100 years. Numerous properties in Meriden lie on the 100-year floodplain. Meriden was historically impacted and shaped by flooding. As in many communities, buildings and roads were historically developed along streams as the floodplains provide more gentle terrain and fertile soils. Meriden is in the process of alleviating excess flooding and reducing the area defined by FEMA as a hazardous floodplain. Meriden has implemented multiple projects to reduce flood risks; the Meriden Green is a prime example. Meriden is planning ongoing flood control projects, such as the Harbor Brook Flood Control, and has integrated community initiatives like the Linear Trail into these projects. The flood control project will also remediate brownfield areas along Harbor Brook, which contain hazardous contaminants. As My Record Journal reports,

“The existing floodplain, which currently spans a wide area along Harbor Brook would be significantly reduced after the latest phase is completed.”

Floodplains also reduce the impact of erosion downstream and sedimentation during flooding. When floodplains are full of water, they act as filters to remove excess sediment and nutrients and process organic waste. Floodplains are also considered part of wetlands, which are discussed in more depth in section 3.4.

Floodplains replenish groundwater and aquifers, which are primary water sources (discussed more in section 3.6). During low-flow periods, this groundwater can flow into adjacent waterways, reducing the low flow of streams (FEMA).

Floodplains directly or indirectly support numerous species. Many species spend their entire lives on floodplains or interacting with them. Keeping floodplain corridors available is vital for species migration, including threatened or endangered species. According to UCONN CTECO, the floodplains of Harbor Brook intersect with the habitat of several endangered, threatened, or species of special concern, such as the Eastern Spadefoot, Spotted Turtle, and Wood Turtle. Floodplains often occupy semi-marshy areas, which include shrubs like dogwood, spicebush, and sensitive fern. Flooding also spreads invasive plants in a floodplain.

Wooded areas can be found on floodplains. Several floodplains in Meriden are forests, where trees occupy a land shelf that remains unharmed during low-level flooding. Most trees in the forested floodplains are Red Maple, Silver Maple, Sycamore, and Eastern Cottonwood. In Connecticut, many floodplain forests are fragmented by a history of agricultural activity because they are typically on prime soils, which are the most preferable for agricultural production. Floodplain forests are considered a critical habitat by UCONN CTECO.

Coinciding with wetlands, undeveloped floodplains are beneficial because they improve water quality; serve as habitat, spawning, and nursery area for many species; prevent flood damage; support endangered species; and provide erosion control. Floodplains also provide outdoor recreational opportunities (i.e., wildlife viewing/photography, nature study).

One significant threat to floodplains is pollution from surface runoff. Native wetland vegetation also maintains ecosystem health by removing nutrients from fertilizer run-off or waste products. Floodplains allow harmful nutrients from runoff water to settle out, improving water quality. Meriden participates in DEEP programs to reduce and mitigate runoff effects.

The Flood Control Implementation Agency actively manages flooding issues. Minutes and other information can be found on MeridenCT.gov by searching for “Documents on Demand” and then searching “flood.”

References and Resources

FEMA Definitions

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/nfip/manual201205/content/22_definitions.pdf

FEMA Floodways

https://www.fema.gov/glossary/floodway

My Record Journal, “Harbor Brook Flood Control project enters next phase with tree clearing near Hanover Street”

https://www.myrecordjournal.com/News/Meriden/Meriden-News/Harbor-Brook-Flood-Control-project-enters-next-phase-with-tree-clearing-near-Hanover-Street.html

My Record Journal, “Meriden looks to fund cleanup redevelopment of hazardous sites”

https://www.myrecordjournal.com/News/Meriden/Meriden-News/Meriden-looks-to-fund-cleanup-redevelopment-of-hazardous-sites.html

FEMA, Floodplains

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/floodplain/nfip_sg_unit_1.pdf

CT DEEP, Endangered Species - Reptiles

https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Endangered-Species/Endangered-Species-Listings/Endangered-Threatened--Special-Concern-Reptiles

CT DEEP, Endangered Species - Amphibians

https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Endangered-Species/Endangered-Species-Listings/Endangered-Threatened--Special-Concern-Amphibians

UCONN CTECO, Resource Guide for Critical Habitat

https://cteco.uconn.edu/guides/resource/CT_ECO_Resource_Guide_Critical_Habitat.pdf

CT DEEP, Quinnipiac Water Management Plans

https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/DEEP/water/watershed_management/wm_plans/quinnipiac/quinnipiacwbpappendicespdf.pdf

3.3 Lakes and Ponds

Lakes and reservoirs provide habitat for wildlife, numerous recreational opportunities, and good quality drinking water. Lakes and ponds collect water from surrounding areas, and the health of the terrestrial ecosystem significantly impacts the water quality. Multiple ponds and reservoirs are located in the Meriden area with varying degrees of depth and size. More information on Connecticut’s Lakes can be found on the CT DEEP website.

CT DEEP uses two classification systems: the trophic state classification and water quality classification. The trophic classification uses the biological productivity of the lake and how that affects lake use. The best trophic classification level is oligotrophic, prime recreation lakes. When a lake’s poor oxygen prevents or limits biological productivity and recreational use, it's referred to as eutrophic.

The water quality classification looks at the historical and designated use of the water body. The CT DEEP also categorizes as either Class A or Class B waters. Class A waters are suitable for fishing and swimming though they cannot receive treated wastewater discharges. Class B waters are ideal for fishing and swimming and may receive treated wastewater discharges.

Lakes with a depth of 20 feet or more experience a process called seasonal stratification. In summer, the warm surface water of lakes separates from the cool bottom waters. Shallow ponds have slightly warmer surface waters or uniform temperatures throughout the water body.

Water bodies occur throughout Meriden, and the following section describes the major ones.

Bradley Hubbard Reservoir is part of Meriden’s public water supply and is located in Giuffrida Park, one of Meriden’s largest parks. The Bradley Hubbard Reservoir Loop surrounds the lake with a 1.6-mile trail. The Western Bradley Hubbard Reservoir Loop is a 2.3-mile trail with scenic views of the lake. The reservoir is open to fishing but requires a permit from the City Of Meriden’s Parks and Recreation Department. The reservoir’s east side is known for its traprock ridge and talus slopes. This includes Chauncey Peak, which provides a scenic overlook of the reservoir and is traversed by the Mattabesett Trail. The reservoir's west side has pine groves and mixed forest, while the north side is hardwood with talus and heavily featured terrain. The reservoir has a history of algal blooms, and the city installed a floating partition in 2016 to improve the water quality. Heat waves and lack of rain in summers contribute to larger algae blooms.

Hanover Pond is fed by the Quinnipiac River, Sodom Brook, and Harbor Brook. It is located next to Habershon Field. The Hanover Pond Trail runs next to Hanover Pond and Sodom Brook. More information about the Hanover Pond Trail can be found in the Public Access section here and on the City of Meriden’s website. Per fishing regulations of DEEP, Hanover Pond is open to fishing for Largemouth Bass, sunfish, and Common Carp. Mussels are resilient in water bodies and frequent Hanover Pond, as noted by Connecticut Fish and Wildlife. Hanover Pond has the invasive European Water Chestnuts, and ORWA hosts volunteer workdays to remove this problem plant.

The 146-acre Silver Lake extends from Berlin to northern Meriden, off of North Colony Road. Per fishing regulations of DEEP, Silver Lake is open to fishing for Calico Bass, Largemouth Bass, Sunfish, Brown Bullhead, Chain Pickerel, and Channel Catfish. The lake has a public boat launch and some wooded borders. For recreation, water-skiing is permitted during the summer. Silver Lake has lilies, several types of pondweeds, and many coontails. The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station states that Silver Lake contains the invasive Eurasian Watermilfoil and Curlyleaf Pondweed. Hydraulic dredging has previously been used to control the Eurasian Watermilfoil. Overgrowing invasive plants in ponds and lakes can prevent recreation, such as paddling and canoeing.

The 31.9-acre Beaver Pond is located next to the Beaver Pond Park and Meriden Dog park and provides Largemouth Bass, Chain Pickerel, and Black Crappie. The park along the south shore allows for recreation. A railroad track also runs along the western shore of the pond. Beaver Pond’s most dominant vegetation comprises coontail and waterweeds. The Connecticut Agriculture Experiment Station states that Beaver Pond, like Silver Lake, contains the invasive Eurasian Watermilfoil. Overgrowing invasive plants in ponds and lakes can prevent recreation, such as paddling and canoeing.

The 6.4-acre Mirror Lake is in Hubbard Park, one of the city’s largest parks, and located right off of Main Street and Mirror Lake Drive. The west shore is lined with lots of trees and natural vegetation, and Hubbard Park also has a swimming pool. Per fishing regulations of DEEP, Mirror Lake is open to fishing for trout, channel catfish, common carp, and sunfish.

Merimere Reservoir is in northeastern Meriden and adjacent to Hubbard Park. When hiking the Merimere Reservoir Loop, the 4.7-mile trail provides a distant glimpse of Castle Craig on East Peak. The trail also goes through Hubbard Park. Trees grow up to the water’s edge, including oak and maple. The reservoir is also next to the Hanging Hills.

Baldwins Pond is a small 5-acre pond that empties over a multi-tiered waterfall. It is right next to Baldwin Park and Wilbur Cross Parkway. Per fishing regulations of DEEP, Baldwins Pond is open to fishing for trout, sunfish, and Largemouth Bass. There are several clusters of trees and native vegetation along the southern shore of Baldwins Pond.

Bishops Pond, a lake in southwestern Meriden, is known for sighting birds like the Greater Scaup, Northern Pintail, and Barn Swallow. Bishops Pond is between Pond View Drive and Research Parkway. Bishops Pond is surrounded by shrubs and various trees. Fosters Lake is across Research Parkway from Bishops Pond, nestled between the parkway and I-91. There is a significant buffer of trees and other vegetation between Fosters Lake and I-91.

Photo provided by Steven Sola

High Hill Pond is near Mountain Mist Day Camp and High Hill Orchard. It is nestled between agricultural fields and wooded areas. Ives Pond is located near Paddock Avenue and is surrounded by many trees.

Black Pond State Wildlife Area is located in eastern Meriden, right off of East Main Street and CT-66. The pond’s surrounding area includes a traprock ridge and a parking area where several trails, a fishing platform, and viewpoints can be accessed. Geese, swans, and ospreys frequent the site. The western shore has numerous native vegetation.

Broad Brook Reservoir, off on Reservoir Road in Cheshire, is stewarded by the city of Meriden and included as part of the City’s water supply. It is mostly surrounded by natural vegetation with many trees on the shore.

3.4 Wetlands

Meriden’s INLAND WETLANDS AND WATERCOURSE REGULATIONS begin with the statement, “The wetlands and watercourses are an indispensable, irreplaceable and fragile natural resource with which the citizens of Meriden have been endowed. They are essential to an adequate supply of surface and underground water, to hydrogeological stability and control of flood and erosion, to the recharging and purification of groundwater, and to the existence of many forms of animal, aquatic and plant life.”

Connecticut wetlands are defined by soil type, specifically saturated or hydric soils, which are protected under the City’s inland wetland regulations.

Water in freshwater wetlands is replenished by surface water flooding and groundwater discharge. Ponding of water in wetlands can occur seasonally, semi-permanently, or permanently. According to the DEEP’s “Wetlands of Connecticut” on page five, wetlands are defined by three aspects:

Hydrology – the degree of flooding or soil saturation
Wetland vegetation
Hydric soil

The 2020 Meriden POCD identified 1,085 acres of wetland-designated soils, which comprise 7% of Meriden’s lands. Below is a map of wetland soils in Meriden. Smaller wetland areas are not documented on this map but are detailed in wetland maps used by the Meriden Planning Department.

Wetlands are beneficial because they improve water quality; serve as habitat, spawning, and nursery area for many species; prevent flood damage; support endangered species; and provide erosion control. Wetlands trap nutrients from runoff water, improving water quality. Wetlands also provide outdoor recreational opportunities (i.e., wildlife viewing/photography, nature study).

Wetlands improve water quality through nutrient removal and retention, and vegetation acts as a filter. As water floods a wetland, the water spreads throughout the vegetation. Extra sediment binds to the roots of plants. Wetland vegetation is resilient and can remove nutrients from fertilizer run-off or waste products by taking in those chemicals and making some less harmful. Wetlands can remove sediment, which is valuable because sediment can carry excess nutrients and heavy metals. Wetlands are often located near groundwater areas and are essential for contributing to groundwater quality.

Preserving wetlands is an important step in flood control. During flooding, wetlands slow water velocity, lessening flood damage and reducing the water’s erosive potential. Wetlands act as flood storage, taking in surface flow and storing it to release the water back into groundwater and streams slowly.

Wetland vegetation is a significant oxygen producer, providing clean air and ample amounts of dissolved oxygen. Wetlands also regulate the microclimate in the surrounding area by filtering the air of pollutants. They self-maintain through wetland ecosystem processes, such as primary production, flood protection, shoreline erosion control, and nutrient cycling.

As the EPA notes, wetlands play a critical role in watersheds because the shallow water, high levels of nutrients, and primary productivity are ideal for developing organisms that form the base of the food web. These organisms are fed on by fish, amphibians, shellfish, and insects, while birds and mammals migrate for food and shelter. Many species on the Endangered and Threatened Species List are wetland or water-dependent.

The DEEP reports that nearly all freshwater fish can be considered wetland-dependent because many species feed in wetlands or upon wetland-produced food. Many fish use wetlands as nursery grounds, while almost all important recreational fish spawn in the waters of wetlands. This includes trout, sunfish, bass, Channel Catfish, and other recreational fish species in Meriden.

DEEP emphasizes on page 69, “Wetlands, therefore, are crucial for the existence of many birds, ranging from waterfowl and shorebirds to migratory songbirds. Some spend their entire lives in wetland environments, while others primarily use wetlands for seasonal breeding, feeding, or resting.”

A wetland ecosystem thrives on properties and functions that generally exist beyond frequent human contact, even in developed areas. Wetlands support both living and non-living organisms that are wetland specific. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says that wetlands are biologically diverse and productive areas.

According to the DEEP’s, “Wetlands of Connecticut,” on page 87, direct threats to wetlands include:

Filling for dredged spoil and other solid disposals
Dredging and stream channelization
Construction of dikes, dams, levees, and seawalls

These threats can occur without proper consideration of wetland values. The greatest threat to freshwater wetlands is residential, commercial, or industrial development encroachment. Dredging removes vegetation, increasing erosion. Historically, dredging and filling wetlands have been favored to create houses, buildings, and parking lots. Urbanization and transportation projects that compromise wetlands increase sedimentation and nutrient levels in streams, affecting water quality, plants, and animals. By filling wetlands with paved areas, impervious surface cover leads to surface water runoff with extra nutrients, fertilizers, pesticides, etc.

Wetland and watercourse regulations are actively managed by the Inland Wetlands and Watercourse Commission. Minutes and other information can be found on MeridenCT.gov by searching for “Documents on Demand” and then searching “wetland.”

Resources

CT DEEP, “Wetlands of Connecticut”

https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/DEEP/water/wetlands/WetlandsofCTpdf.pdf

EPA, “Why are Wetlands Important?”

https://www.epa.gov/wetlands/why-are-wetlands-important

University of Vermont, Wetlands Functions

https://dec.vermont.gov/watershed/wetlands/functions

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, “The Highway Methodology Workbook, Supplement”

https://www.nae.usace.army.mil/Portals/74/docs/regulatory/Forms/HighwaySupplement6Apr2015.pdf

3.5 Vernal Pools

DEEP defines vernal pools as seasonal ephemeral wetlands. In the Northeast, these occur in glaciated areas covered by shallow water from winter to spring but may be completely dry during summer and fall. Vernal pools are named after the vernal equinox since they usually appear in the spring. In Meriden, vernal pools are often located near the traprock ridges, land contours, and in drainage areas of water tables.

The US Army Corps of Engineers says:

“Vernal pools are often small, seasonally flooded, and may be isolated from larger wetland systems. These characteristics make them particularly vulnerable to filling or direct alteration and also render vernal pools difficult to adequately protect through wetland regulations in the U.S. and Canada.”

Vernal pools are often confined, distinguishing them from marshes or streams. They have unique hydrology and rich species diversity, yet are free from breeding populations of fish. The temporal nature of vernal pools makes them hard to identify but results in the pools having less predation than permanent water bodies (Natural Resources Conservation Service Connecticut). This allows vernal pools to support many amphibian species like the Wood Frog, Spotted Salamander (pictured below), and Marbled Salamander. Fairy Shrimp, which also live in vernal pools, are an essential food source for other animals found in vernal pools. Some vernal pools in Meriden provide breeding sites for the Jefferson Salamander, a species of Special Concern in Connecticut. Amphibians depend on vernal pools for breeding and development, while adult members of the species rely on adjacent habitats to live their adult lives. Most wetland regulations require 50-100 feet of forested buffer around vernal pools. This buffer maintains water quality. However, according to the Vernal Pool Association, maintaining the amphibian diversity of a vernal pool requires 500 feet or more.

Species living in a large area rely on vernal pools to sustain their population. Species living in a small area may depend on or even exist in only one vernal pool. These species often move to vernal pools before the ice melts because the larvae of these species develop over 2-3.5 months. Many animals in the Northeast migrate after coming out of long hibernation to travel to vernal pools. A picture of a vernal pool is below (CT DEEP).

Birds, such as egrets, ducks, and hawks, often use vernal pools for seasonal water and food sources.

Regarding the vernal pools of the Northeast, the Maine Audubon Society suggests that conservation efforts should focus on diverse breeding for invertebrates and amphibians and pools with intact critical land. Juvenile amphibians rely on vernal pools for the secluded area as they adjust to living between terrestrial and aquatic habitats. The reproductive success of amphibians is linked to the hydrology of vernal pools.

Spotted Salamander (Vernal Pool Association)

Vernal pools are highly susceptible to water quality impacts when sediment or excess nutrients enter the water. This also causes effects on amphibian productivity. The Connecticut Association of Wetland Scientists notes that if large amounts of sediment enter a vernal pool, amphibian reproductivity can be absent altogether. Vernal pool availability for the amphibian breeding season is sensitive to changes in precipitation.

References and Resources

CT DEEP, Vernal Pools

https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Water/Wetlands/Vernal-Pools

USDA Natural Resource Conservation Society, “Learn More About Vernal Pools”

https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/ct/technical/ecoscience/?cid=nrcs142p2_011076

CT DEEP, Spotted Salamanders

https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Wildlife/Fact-Sheets/Spotted-Salamander

Vernal Pool Association, Field Guide

https://www.vernalpool.org/field-guide

Vernal Pool Association, “Vernal Pool Ecology”

http://www.vernalpools.me/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Vernal-Pool-Ecology.pdf

Colebrook Land Conservancy, “Spring Magic: Vernal Pools”

https://www.colebrooklandconservancy.org/PDFs/CLC18_Spring.Final_pdf.pdf

Connecticut Association of Wetland Scientists, Vernal Pool Monitoring Program

https://ctwetlands.org/uploads/1/3/0/0/130028447/caws_vernal_pool_monitoring_program_interim_report_2020.pdf

Maine Audubon Society, Best Development Practices: Conserving Pool-Breeding Amphibians

https://www.maineaudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Best-Development-Practices-Conserving-Pool-breeding-Amph.pdf

US Forest Service, Ecology of Woodland Vernal Pools

https://www.fs.fed.us/ne/amherst/projects/vernal.html

US Army Corps of Engineers, Conservation of Vernal Pools

https://www.nae.usace.army.mil/Portals/74/docs/regulatory/VernalPools/Ch12_ScienceConservationofVernalPools.pdf

3.6 Groundwater, Aquifers, and Recharge Zones

The U.S. Geological Services (USGS) defines an aquifer as a water-bearing rock that transmits water to wells and springs. Precipitation adds water and recharges the porous rock of the aquifer. Depending on the aquifer, the recharge rate will differ, which must be considered when pumping water to form a well. The City of Meriden uses groundwater for drinking water, which is treated at four water treatment plants in the city.

The city of Meriden has four state-designated aquifer protection areas. One of the aquifers runs along the border of Meriden and Southington. There are six groundwater wells throughout the city. The City of Meriden has a designated list of regulated activities to reduce threats to the aquifers. Please use the following link for more information on the City’s Drinking Water.

https://www.meridenct.gov/Customer-Content/www/CMS/files/Public_Utilities/2021MeridenCCR_-_website.pdf

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) notes that many rivers use groundwater as baseflows for rivers, which helps regulate river flow during times of little precipitation. When surface water in streams and rivers begins to suffer, groundwater releases to compensate for the low flow. Groundwater is inherent to stream health. Microorganisms in groundwater also clean contaminants, aiding in surface water health. When groundwater discharges into waterways, it helps species viability because some plants depend on groundwater.

In their section on Ground-water dependent ecosystems, the USFS also notes,

, “Groundwater-dependent ecosystems are ecosystems that are supported by groundwater. These places include springs and seeps, caves and karst systems, and deep-rooted plant communities (phreatophytes). In many cases, rivers, wetlands, and lakes are also included. Where groundwater meets the surface, a unique community of plants and animals flourish. A wide variety of rare, threatened, and endangered species call these places home.”

Recharge areas are where water can seep into the ground and refill an aquifer. Surface conditions can determine how well an aquifer is recharged in recharge zones. Most recharge zones are found in floodplains, wetlands, and vernal pools. If an aquifer has an impervious cover, it is less likely to be recharged to its original capacity.

When an aquifer is depleted, the depletion results in low lake or reservoir levels and dry streams, harming animals and plants that rely on watershed areas. This can also lead to sinkhole formation or land subsidence in areas of heavy withdrawal.

3.6a State-Designated Aquifer Protection Areas

Connecticut state-designated aquifer protection areas protect significant public water supply wells in sand and gravel aquifers to ensure a plentiful public drinking water supply for present and future generations. The program protects aquifers by regulating land use within the designated areas. This minimizes the potential for contamination of the aquifers. The map below shows the aquifers in Meriden.

A diagram (DEEP) of the difference between bedrock and stratified dirt aquifer can be found above, and a further description of aquifers is linked below. Most of Meriden’s groundwater is made up of bedrock till.