Ecology

The ecological services offered at Carr Research Laboratory, Inc. (CRL) have substantially expanded over the past decade as permitting regulations have become more complex and more detailed.

With our extensive library collection of ecology resources and the diversified backgrounds and interests of our staff, CRL is able to offer studies and consulting services for issues ranging from endangered species to chemical transport processes interacting with organisms, air, water, and land.

The three most common needs for an ecological study are:

• wetland habitat evaluation of bank, land under waterbody, and floodplain;
• upland habitat evaluation for local zoning or wetland regulations; and
• to search for and evaluate the habitat of species listed in MA as endangered, threatened, and species of special concern.

This latter area is rapidly becoming a key issue for land owners due to recent enforcement of the MA General Laws, Chapter 131A. Carr Research Laboratory, Inc. has two individuals trained and certified in Habitat Evaluation Procedures (HEP) needed for federal projects. Additionally we have several young, sharp-eyed individuals experienced in on-site animal observation as well as three Ph.D. biologist subcontractors specializing in aquatic ecology, herpetology, and general wildlife ecology. Our unique team has developed creative habitat management plans when rare species have been found, and subsequently, project permits have been issued.

Ecological studies apply to rivers, streams, ponds, lakes, wetlands, vernal pools, fields, forests, and urban environments. This includes enhancing and improving habitat for wildlife. For more information on wildlife habitat enhancement see the brochure page titled WILDLIFE HABITAT. Ecology is important since the impacts of our actions (development, recreational activities, etc.) have consequences on our environment. Common CRL services include:

• Agricultural Impact Assessment
• Education and Research
• Food Production
• Habitat for Fish and Shellfish
• Habitat for Rare and Endangered Species
• Recreational Impact Identification
• Water Quality Improvement

Vernal Pools

Vernal pools are small temporary ponds which supply breeding habitats for reptiles and amphibians. Recognition of vernal pool habitat is important under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and its regulations. Vernal pool habitat can only be definitively evaluated in late winter and very early spring. If your land has potential vernal pools, you should contact us to examine the site at the critical time of year. Otherwise, you may lose nine or more months in the permitting process waiting to establish whether or not an area is a vernal pool. CRL is also experienced at developing and conducting groundwater monitoring and analyses needed for vernal pool relocation and replication. Given the assurance of the correct hydrology, vernal pool habitat is reproducible.

Ecological Experience of Carr Research Laboratory

Carr Research Laboratory, Inc. is committed to conducting high quality ecological assessments and studies. Examples of some of the many significant projects successfully completed by CRL follow.

Sea Swan Shopping Plaza, Swansea, MA - A large shopping center was not visible from the nearby highway and without the view corridor, business was suffering. CRL conducted a thorough study of the dense upland and wetland forest that acted as the view obstruction. This area was receiving some contaminated runoff and was being dominated by the invasive and undesirable common reed (Phragmites australis). A solution had to be reached that satisfied all parties: the land owner, the businesses, the local Conservation Commission, the Department of Environmental Protection, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Environmental Protection Agency, the wildlife, and the environment. CRL developed an innovative solution to convert low value forested swamp into deep marsh and ponds that will suppress large tree growth allowing for the view corridor. The storm runoff would be diverted around the ponds through a series of swales which will allow the wildlife areas to remain free from contamination. Additionally, prime waterfowl nesting habitat would be enhanced.

Dexter Farms, Taunton, MA - Over the years, an abandoned corn field along the Three Mile River developed into wood, Blanding’s, spotted, snapping, and painted turtle habitat with turtle nests abounding. CRL conducted an intense field study to determine how vegetation species, waterbodies, soil characteristics, and human activities have influenced turtle nesting habitat. In order for the land owner to build near the turtle nesting sites, CRL proposed to create nesting areas, perform a monitoring survey, and conduct a local education awareness program to ensure the long-term survival of these valuable and interesting resources. Due to CRL’s complete planning and thorough investigations the project was approved.

Route 16 - Mendon, MA - A large plot of land was to be restored to farmland, however five rare or endangered species of Massachusetts were suspected to nest on of nesting the site. Thorough field surveys were conducted of all birds, reptiles, and amphibians. This inventory revealed that rare species did not significantly utilize the wetland and upland resources of this site. Project approved.

Please contact Carr Research Laboratory, Inc. if you are interested in an ecologically sensitive project. With our vast knowledge base, our services are useful to everyone from home owners, to builders, to communities, to resource managers.

Wildlife Habitat

Wildlife habitat is now a MA permitting issue within 200 feet of any permanent stream. Under the 1996 River Amendment to the Wetlands Protection Act wildlife habitat must be evaluated to avoid adverse impacts. For over a decade, the staff of the Carr Research Laboratory, Inc. (CRL) has been involved with evaluation of wildlife habitat and aquatic ecosystems using scientific habitat models. For federal projects, wildlife habitat studies must be performed by personnel who have taken a special course in Habitat Evaluation Procedures (HEP). At CRL, both Dr. Carr and Dr. Wang have taken the required HEP training. These basic skills are enhanced by continued learning and decades of field experience. Our staff is complemented by three Ph.D. biology consultants specializing in wildlife, herpetology (reptiles and amphibians), and aquatic ecology. Refer to the Ecology page of this brochure for related services.

Evaluating Wildlife Habitat

A common misconception is that leaving land untouched is the only way to preserve habitat. The fact is, at least half of undeveloped land offers below average habitat value. When CRL goes before a permitting agency or town board, our use of habitat models places real habitat value in perspective and thus makes permitting easier. Evaluation of habitat by the use of habitat models also allows us to minimize impacts on habitat and actually improve habitat value. CRL also conducts wildlife inventories to support model results.

Improving Wildlife Habitat

We have a good record of improving habitat value by helping engineers and landscape architects incorporate habitat features into project plans. Wildlife habitat enhancement means adding a variety of habitat features focusing on planting programs that increase wildlife food value. Because ponds significantly increase wetland wildlife habitat value, CRL has helped permit pond construction in Massachusetts.

Fisheries Habitat

CRL's involvement in both warm and cold water fisheries has expanded over the past several years. Services include overall fish habitat evaluation, stream classification, creation of management plans, supplementing aquatic communities, and restoration efforts. The key role of evaluating critical limiting factors such as winter food supply and rearing grounds is critical to achieving project goals. The results will be an overall management and restoration program to better protect your fishery resource. Please refer to the brochure pages on Rivers & Streams, Ecology, and Lakes & Ponds for services related to and typically performed in conjunction with fisheries work.

If you contact us to flag your wetland borders, please be sure to discuss potential wildlife habitat needs so we can be sure to collect wildlife inventory and habitat data on each visit to your site. This results in superior wildlife studies and reduces project costs at the same time.