APPENDIX H: ECOLOGICAL STUDIES TECHNICAL REPORT · office for further identification utilizing additional references and a dissection microscope. 2.2.2 Wetlands Surveys The study

APPENDIX H: ECOLOGICAL STUDIES TECHNICAL REPORT

ECOLOGICAL STUDIES TECHNICAL REPORT

PIN 0339.12, 0339.13 Long Island Truck-Rail Intermodal Facility

Town of Islip Suffolk County

April 2007

U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration

NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ELIOT SPITZER, Governor Astrid C. Glynn, Acting Commissioner

It is the policy of the NYSDOT to use metric units for all projects to be let for construction after September 30, 1996. This project is being designed using metric units and the text of this report uses metric units. The following table of approximate conversion factors provides the relationship between metric and inch-pound units for some of the more frequently used units in highway design. The table allows one to calculate the Inch-Pound Unit by multiplying the corresponding Metric Unit by the given factor.

Metric Unit x Factor = Inch-Pound Unit

Length

kilometer (km) x 0.621 = miles (mi)

meter (m) x 3.281 = feet (ft.)

Area hectare (ha) x 2.471 = acres (a)

square meter (m2) x 1.196 = square yards (sy)

square meter (m2) x 10.764 = square feet (sf)

Volume cubic meter (m3) x 1.308 = cubic yards (cy)

cubic meter (m3) x 35.315 = cubic feet (cf)

Speed kilometer per hour (km/h) x 0.621 = miles per hour (mph)

meter per second (m/s) x 3.281 = feet per second (ft/s)

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Long Island Truck-Rail Intermodal Facility April 2007 i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS................................................................................................................. i

1. INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................1-1

2. METHODOLOGIES ...........................................................................................................2-1

2.1 Site Characteristics........................................................................................................2-1

2.2 Field Surveys .................................................................................................................2-1

3. FINDINGS & CHARACTERIZATIONS...............................................................................3-1

3.1 Site Characteristics........................................................................................................3-1

3.2 Vegetation......................................................................................................................3-4

3.3 Wetlands......................................................................................................................3-28

3.4 Avifauna.......................................................................................................................3-30

3.5 Mammals .....................................................................................................................3-42

3.6 Herpetiles.....................................................................................................................3-46

3.7 Butterflies, Moths & Dragonflies ..................................................................................3-51

3.8 Rare, Threatened & Endangered Species & Habitats .................................................3-53

3.9 Invasive Plant Species.................................................................................................3-59

4. REFERENCES...................................................................................................................4-1

Long Island Truck-Rail Intermodal Facility 1-1 April 2007

1. INTRODUCTION The proposed project – the Long Island Truck-Rail Intermodal Facility (LITRIM Facility) – is located on a portion of the former Pilgrim State Hospital site in Brentwood, Town of Islip, Suffolk County, New York. The proposed site is located 1.8 miles south of the Long Island Expressway Exit 53, and north of the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) Main Line along an existing siding that once served the Hospital’s coal-fed power plant and a former station. The 105-acre property is currently unoccupied. The proposed site is bordered by Heartland Business Center to the south, Sagtikos Parkway to the east, two power plants and the Edgewood Preserve to the west, and the existing Pilgrim Psychiatric Center to the north.

When completed, the LITRIM Facility will include four intermodal tracks and three tracks for bulk materials, such as lumber, concrete and building supplies. The facility would be designed to meet the needs of Long Island for the next 30 years. It would handle intermodal freight as well as bulk freight, each of which would be accommodated differently. Intermodal freight containers would be lifted off the railcars by cranes and put on trailer chassis for trucks to pick up and deliver. Bulk materials would be placed in a storage area for trucks to pick up at a later date. There would be both inside storage for vulnerable bulk materials outside space for storage of the remainder of the bulk freight.

This report describes the general ecology in the vicinity of the proposed project. Available data, supplemented by field observations, were used to characterize the wildlife and habitats found within the study area in terms of: vegetation; avifauna; mammals; herpetiles; butterflies, moths, and dragonflies; rare, threatened, and endangered species; and invasive plants. Data from U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS), New York State National Heritage Program (NYNHP), the New York State Breeding Bird Atlas, and standard field guides were utilized in conducting the field investigations and characterizations. In addition, NYNHP’s Ecological Communities of New York State was followed in defining the vegetation communities present.

The study area, shown in Figure 1-1, included the former Pilgrim State Hospital property, as well as areas directly adjacent to the existing rail spur, Sagtikos Parkway, and G Road, and the area immediately adjacent to the south side of the interchange between the Long Island Expressway and Sagtikos Parkway. Due to the mobile nature of many wildlife species, areas in the immediate vicinity of the study area were also surveyed.

.

PROPOSEDSITE

Crooked Hill Rd

Grand Blvd

Northern Pkwy

Crooked Hill Rd

Long Island Ave.

Sagt

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Pkw

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Wicks Rd.

Long Island Expressway

Com

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G Road

Oak Brush PlainsEdgewood Preserve

PINE AIRE DRIVE

Figure 1-1Proposed Project Location

0 1,100 2,200Feet

0 300 600Meters

LONG ISLAND TRUCK-RAIL INTERMODAL (LITRIM) FACILITYPROJECT New York State

Department of Transportation


2. METHODOLOGIES This chapter summarizes the field survey methods and literature review techniques used to characterize the wildlife and habitats found within the study area.

2.1 SITE CHARACTERISTICS

2.1.1 Drainage

The drainage characteristics of the study area were assessed by reviewing the existing U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) topographic mapping (Greenlawn Quadrangle, April 1980) and conducting field investigations. Engineering plans and detailed drainage maps were not available for review.

2.1.2 Terrain Features

The terrain of the study area was assessed by reviewing the current USGS topographic mapping and by observing topographic variations during field investigations.

2.2 FIELD SURVEYS

Ecologists working on behalf of the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) surveyed the project area between May 2004 and October 2005. The specific date and purpose of each survey are listed in Table 2-1 below. TABLE 1-1: FIELD SURVEYS

Survey Date Purpose

May 10 , 2004 Breeding bird survey, general ecology

May 15, 2004 Breeding bird survey, general ecology

May 30, 2004 General ecology

June 6, 2004 Breeding bird survey, herpetiles & mammals survey

June 8, 2004 Breeding bird survey, herpetiles & mammals survey

June 16, 2004 General ecology


Survey Date Purpose

July 22, 2004 General ecology

August 26, 2004 General ecology, Rare plant survey

September 30, 2004 General ecology, Rare plant survey

November 8, 2004 General ecology

February 22, 2005 Winter bird survey

March 17, 2005 Winter bird survey

June 24, 2005 Invasive species mapping, general ecology, alternatives vegetative mapping

July 7, 2005 Invasive species mapping, general ecology, alternatives vegetative mapping

August 16, 2005 Rare plant survey, invasive species mapping, alternatives vegetative community mapping

October 19, 2005 Coastal barrens buckmoth survey

October 20, 2005 Coastal barrens buckmoth survey

The detailed field surveys included: breeding bird surveys; winter bird surveys; rare, endangered and threatened species and habitats; identification of herpetiles, mammals and amphibian species utilizing the area; identification of observed vegetative species including invasive species, as well as the mapping of vegetative communities.

2.2.1 Vegetation Surveys

The focus of the vegetation survey was centered on, but not restricted to, the identification of the vegetative communities within the study area. Investigations for rare or unique species that had been reported by the NYSDEC as occurring in proximity to the study area were also conducted. An inventory of vegetative types was assembled using standard surveying techniques. The standardized vegetative community classification system provided in NYNHP’s Ecological Communities of New York State (Reschke, 1990) was used for this analysis. Numerous field guides were also used to assist in identifying plants and communities. If identification was not confirmed in the field, a cutting of the plant was taken and brought to the office for further identification utilizing additional references and a dissection microscope.

2.2.2 Wetlands Surveys

The study area was evaluated for the presence of any mapped State or Federal wetlands. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) Freshwater Wetland Map, Greenlawn Quadrangle (1993) was checked for the presence of mapped freshwater wetlands. The USFWS National Wetland Inventory (NWI) Map, Greenlawn Quadrangle (April


1980 data) was also checked for the presence of any mapped wetlands. A field survey was also undertaken to confirm the presence or absence of these mapped wetlands and to identify other unmapped wetlands. Wetlands within the study area were surveyed using the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (1987) three-prong methodology for defining wetlands: 1) positive indicators for wetland indicator (hydrophytic) plants, 2) wetland hydrology, and 3) hydric soils.

2.2.3 Avifauna Surveys

Avian utilization of habitats within the study area was surveyed during peak migratory and over wintering periods. Avifauna was identified through direct observation and indirect methods (i.e. calls, songs, tracks, etc). Staff ecologists walked the areas using binoculars to identify species. Taped sound cues, such as bird calls and songs, were also used to identify bird species. Field guides were used to identify and confirm species in the field. A species was documented as being located within the study area if observed perched, on the ground, or flying above or its birdcall heard.

A literature review of the natural history and ecology of the bird species observed was also conducted to determine the extent to which these birds might utilize the study area for resting, nesting, and foraging. The New York State Breeding Bird Atlas (NYSDEC, 2000) and its interim updates were also checked to determine breeding birds considered likely to utilize the study area (NYSDEC, 2005a). The available scientific literature was also checked to determine avifauna species that are “expected” to use the study area based on the study area’s position along the Atlantic flyway and the available habitats.

2.2.4 Mammals and Herpetiles

During the field surveys, data was collected to document the presence of mammalian and herpetile (reptiles and amphibians) species utilization of the study area and its immediate vicinity. Evidence of these species was obtained by visual sightings, sound identification, tracks, tunnels, burrows, scat (droppings) and other distinguishing habitat features. Survey techniques included walking the property and turning over boards, rocks, and other debris. Field guides were used to assist in species identification. In addition, the NYS Amphibian & Reptile Atlas Project 1990-1999 (NYSDEC, 2005b) was also checked to determine herpetile species that may inhabit the study area.

2.2.5 Butterflies and Dragonflies

Incidental observations of butterfly and dragonfly species were also made during the field surveys. Field guides were used for identification of these species.

2.2.6 Rare Species

The NYNHP was contacted to determine any known occurrences of New York State rare species, significant natural communities and habitats on and adjacent to the study area. The USFWS was also contacted to determine the potential presence of federally listed rare flora, fauna and/or significant ecological communities in the project vicinity. In addition, the NYSDEC Region 1 (Stony Brook, NY) Bureau of Environmental Protection Regional Manager, Mr. Greg Kozlowski, was contacted to determine the potential presence of the New York State


endangered eastern tiger salamander (Ambystoma tigrinum) in the water recharge basins (Kozlowski, Pers. Comm. April 27, 2004). Field investigations for rare species occurred simultaneously with other field surveys whenever possible. However, these habitat surveys were conducted at the time of year in which flora or fauna was most easily observed and identified (i.e. flower bloom, fruit generation presence).

A detailed survey of the study area was conducted for the coastal barrens buckmoth (Hemileuca maia spp.) in October 2005. Although there is no state-approved surveying protocol for the buckmoth (D. Rosenblatt, NYSDEC, Email Comm., October 5, 2005); a surveying methodology similar to that used in the Albany Pine Bush Preserve for the inland barrens buckmoth (Hemileuca maia ssp 3) was adopted. An open area of scrub oak in the pitch pine-scrub oak barrens (PPSOB) community was divided into four transects within an open area of the PPSOB dominated by 2-3’ tall scrub oaks were sampled. Along each transect an east and west station, approximately 100 feet apart, were surveyed by two biologists. Each covered a 180-degree arc and was equipped with binoculars and a butterfly net.

Long Island Truck-Rail Intermodal Facility April 2007 3-1

3. FINDINGS & CHARACTERIZATIONS

3.1 SITE CHARACTERISTICS

3.1.1 Terrain

Review of the USGS topographic mapping (see Figure 3-1) site investigations revealed that the study area is higher in elevation in the vicinity of the Sagtikos Parkway and the Long Island Expressway interchange area than at the sites of the Intermodal Yard and the receiving tracks. Within the Intermodal Yard, there are, noticeable rises in elevations are along the western and southern boundaries. The northwestern area of the yard site contains eight sand mines that are recessed and separated by small berms. A north-south oriented ridge (likely formed during earthmoving activities associated with sand mines) is present in the PPOF community located west of the sand mines and of the power plant. At its highest point, the ridge is approximately 15 feet higher than the surrounding paths. In the southwestern section of the Intermodal Yard, the sand mines are also separated by narrow berms. The topographic maps do not reflect these slight variations, but they do show a rise in elevation. The storm water detention basin and its overflow area are recessed below the surrounding grades. A rise in elevation to the west of the overflow area and the southern part of the basin is evident in the field and agrees with the topographic map. The southern boundary of the overflow area, which corresponds to the southern boundary of the yard site, is very steep and in some areas the slope has slumped from garbage (trash) deposits.

3.1.2 Drainage

Field investigations were conducted to confirm drainage of the site. As shown in Figure 3-2, a man-made storm water detention basin is located in the southeastern section of the Intermodal Yard. Throughout the course of site surveys, the basin was never found to be without water although water levels decreased during low rainfall months. The basin lies recessed from the surrounding lands to the north and west but is separated from low lying areas to the south and east by earthen berms. The basin appears receive runoff from the north through three concrete culverts that empty onto a concrete spillway located on the northern shoreline of the basin. The origin of the runoff is not known, but as stated above is assumed to originate from roadways and/or drains further north. A pipe riser located in the basin, is evident only during dry periods when water levels are lower. Suffolk County Water Authority (SCWA) manholes were evident along one of the paths that extend along the southern edge of the Intermodal Yard. Also, SCWA manholes were also evident along paved path within the receiving tracks area. Another storm water detention basin is located within the Long Island Expressway interchange.

Figure 3-1USGS Topographic Mapping

0 1,000 2,000Feet

0 250 500Meters



Source: USGS Topographic Map Greenlawn Quadrangle

LONG ISLAND TRUCK-RAILINTERMODAL (LITRIM) FACILITY

Crooked Hill Rd

Grand Blvd

Northern Pkwy

Crooked Hill Rd

Long Island Ave.

Sagt

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Pkw

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Wicks Rd.


Com

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Figure 3-2Ecology Study Area

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Limits of DisturbanceEcology Study Area


Temporary pools form along the roads and paths within the study area after rainfall, especially along the southern edge of the Intermodal Yard dominated and the north-south path separating the study area from the NYSDEC Oak Brush Plains State Preserve at Edgewood. Some of the ponds forming along these paths are rather large, spanning the entire width of the path (approximately 10-12 feet) and approximately 30 feet long. Pools are also present south of the Intermodal Yard. Small temporary pools also form in the wheel ruts of north-south paths.

3.2 VEGETATION

The vegetative communities identified within the study area are listed in Table 3-1 and described in more detail in the following subsections. Figures 3-3a and 3-3b detail the location and extent of the existing vegetation. The small size and large variation in vegetative communities are likely due to the fact that these areas that have been subject to man-made disturbances (including building, excavation, dumping and motor biking) and, to a lesser degree, natural disturbances (i.e. fire, blow-downs). TABLE 3-1: VEGETATIVE COMMUNITIES AND LAND USE WITHIN THE STUDY AREA

Map Symbol Community Name Location Found

JY Junkyard Intermodal yard – central

ML Mowed lawn G Road and Long Island Expressway Interchange area

MLT Mowed lawn with trees Intermodal yard – northwest juncture of yard and G Road

Paved area Paved area G Road & northern area of receiving tracks

PP Pine plantation Intermodal yard – north

PPOF Pitch pine oak forest Intermodal yard – throughout, receiving tracks, Long Island Expressway Interchange area

PPOF/SSH Pitch pine oak forest-southern successional hardwood

Intermodal yard - southwestern & northern areas

PPSOB Pitch pine scrub oak barrens Receiving tracks

PRP Paved road/path Intermodal yard and receiving tracks

SM Sand mine Intermodal yard – central & north

SOF Successional old field Intermodal yard – throughout

SOF/SS Successional old field/successional shrubland

Intermodal yard – east


Map Symbol Community Name Location Found

SOF/UVL Successional old field/urban vacant lot Intermodal yard – east

SS Successional shrubland Intermodal yard – central

SSH Southern successional hardwoods Intermodal yard – throughout

SSH/SOF patch Successional southern hardwoods/ successional old field patches

Intermodal yard – central

SSH/SS Successional southern hardwoods/ successional shrubland

Intermodal yard – central

Unpaved area Unpaved area Intermodal yard – east, south central and at juncture with G Road

URP Unpaved road/path Intermodal yard – throughout

USE Urban structure exterior Intermodal yard – central

USE/URP Urban structure exterior/paved road/path Intermodal yard – east

UVL Urban vacant lot Intermodal yard – east

WRB Water recharge basin Intermodal yard – east

The principal plant community found was the pitch pine-oak forest (PPOF). Other vegetative communities are also present with the greatest number of communities located to the west of the water recharge basin. It is expected that the PPOF community would dominate the study area in the future if succession was permitted to proceed without disturbance.

A complete list of all plant species identified during the surveys is provided in Table 3-2.

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Crooked

Northern Pkwy

Crooked Hill RdLong Island Expressway

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Figure 3-3aVegetation

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0 150 300Meters



Vegetation CommunitiesCA

CP

JY

PP

PPOF

P

PV

PPOF/SSH

PPSOB

SOF

SOF/SS

SOF/UVL

SS

SSH

SSH/SOF

SSH/SS

USE

USE/PRP

UVL

WRB (POWFx)

LIRR Tracks

URP AreaURP

! ! PRP

Limits ofImprovements

LB

MLT

ML RSE

SM

RB99

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Crooked Hill Rd

Sagt

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G Road

Pine Aire Dr.

Figure 3-3bVegetation

0 550 1,100Feet

0 150 300Meters



Vegetation CommunitiesCA

CP

JY

PP

PPOF

P

PV

PPOF/SSH

PPSOB

SOF

SOF/SS

SOF/UVL

SS

SSH

SSH/SOF

SSH/SS

USE

USE/PRP

UVL

WRB (POWFx)

LIRR Tracks

URP AreaURP

! ! PRP

Limits ofImprovements

LB

MLT

ML RSE

SM

RB99


TABLE 3-2: BOTANTICAL SPECIES SURVEY RESULTS

Common Name Scientific Name Community NYS Legal Status

TREES

American holly Ilex opaca PPOF opening, PP, SSH NYS Exploitably Vulnerable

Apple Malus spp. SS, SSH, PPOF

Autumn olive Elaeagnus umbellata SSH, SOF, SS PPOF, SOF/SS, PPOF/SSH

Invasive

Big-toothed aspen Populus grandidentata

PPOF, SSH, PPOF/SSH

Black cherry Prunus serotina SS, SSH, SM, PPOF/SSH, PPOF, PP, SOF

Black locust Robinia pseudo-acacia

PPOF openings, SSH, SOF. SS Invasive

Black oak Quercus velutina PPOF, SSH, PPOF/SSH

Black walnut Juglans nigra PPOF/SSH, SSH

Blue spruce (Colorado) Picea pungens var. Colorado

MLT

Chestnut oak Quercus prinus PPOF

Chinquapin oak Quercus prinoides PPOF, PPSOB

Choke cherry Prunus virginiana PPOF/SSH, PPOF, SSH, SS

Common apple Malus pumila SS, SSH

Common sweet cherry Prunus avium PPOF/SSH, SSH, SS

Crab-apple Malus spp.

SSH, SS

Dawn redwood Metasequoia glyptostroboides

SSH

Downy juneberry Amelanchier arborea SSH

Dwarf elm Ulmus pumila SSH patch in SOF/UVL

Eastern cottonwood Populus deltoides SSH, SOF

Eastern red cedar Juniperus virginiana PPOF, SSH

European larch Larix decidua PPOF

Flowering dogwood Cornus florida PPOF, SSH NYS Exploitably Vulnerable

Green ash Fraxinus pennsylvanica

SSH

Gray birch Betula PPOF, SSH, SM, SS, SOF, PPOF/SSH



Japanese maple Acer palmatum SSH

Mimosa Albizia julibrissin SOF

Mulberry Morus spp. SSH, SOF, PPOF/SSH Invasive (M. alba only)

Northern white cedar Thuja occidentalis CP

Norway maple Acer platanoides SSH, SS, PPOF Invasive

Oak Quercus spp. PPOF, PPSOB, PPOF/SSH, SSH

Pin cherry Prunus pensylvanica PPOF, PPOF/SSH, SSH

Pin oak Quercus palustris PPOF

Pitch pine Pinus rigida PPOF, PP, SSH, PPSOB, PPOF/SSH, SOF, SM

Post oak Quercus stellata PPOF, SSH/SOF, SS

Princess tree Paulovinia tomentosa PPOF, SOF, SS, SSH Invasive

Quaking aspen Populus tremuloides PPOF, SSH

Red maple Acer rubrum PPOF

Red mulberry Morus rubra SS

Red oak Quercus rubra SSH, PPOF, PPSOB, PPOF/SSH

Rose of sharon Hibiscus syriacus SOF, SS

Sassafras Sassafras albidum PPOF, SSH

Scarlet oak Quercus coccinea PPOF, SSH, PPSOB

Scrub oak Quercus ilicifolia PPOF, PP, SSH, SOF, PPSOB, PPOF/SSH, SS

Shagbark hickory Carya ovata PPOF

Smooth sumac Rhus glabra SSH, SS

Sour cherry Prunus cerasus SSH

Sweet pignut hickory Carya ovalis PP

Sycamore-maple Acer pseudoplatanus SSH

Tree-of-heaven Ailanthus altissima SSH, PPOF, PPOF/SSH, SS Invasive

White mulberry Morus alba SSH Invasive

White oak Quercus alba PPOF, PPSOB, SSH, SS

White pine Pinus strobus PPOF, PP, SSH

White poplar Populus alba PPOF, SSH Invasive



Willow Salix spp. SSH

SHRUBS & VINES

Beach-plum Prunus maritima SSH

Beach rose Rosa SS

Bearberry Arctostaphylos uva-ursi

PPOF, PPSOB

Black elderberry Sambucus canadensis

SOF

Black huckleberry Gaylussacia baccata PPOF, PPSOB

Black raspberry Rubus occidentalis PPOF, PPOF/SSH, SSH, SS

Black swallow-wort Cynanchium louiseae PPOF, SS, SOF Invasive

Bramble Rubus spp. SSH, SS, SOF, PPOF, PP, PPOF/SSH

Bush honeysuckle Lonicera spp. PPOF, SSH, SOF Invasive (L. bella, L. morrowii, L. maackii

“Rem Red”, L. tartarica and L. xylosteum)

Common blackberry Rubus allegheniensis SS, SOF, PPOF

Common greenbrier Smilax rotundifolia PPOF, SSH

Dogbane Apocynum androsaemifolium x cannabinum

SOF, PPOF/SSH

European buckthorn Rhamnus frangula PPOF Invasive

European privet Ligustrum vulgare. SSH, PP Invasive

Evergreen blackberry Rubus laciniatus SOF Invasive

Everlasting pea Lathyrus latifolius SSH

False heather Hudsonia tomentosa SS

Fly honeysuckle Lonicera xylosteum SSH, PPOF Invasive

Fox grape Vitis labrusca PPOF

Great laurel Rhododendron maximum

PPOF openings NYS Exploitably Vulnerable

Groundsel-tree Baccharis halimifolia SS

Hairy honeysuckle Lonicera hirsute SSH

Hawthorn Crataegus spp. PPOF, PP, PPOF/SSH, SSH, SOF, SS

Highbush blueberry Vaccinium corymbosum

PPOF, PPSOB



Indian hemp Apocynum cannabinum

SS, SSH, SOF

Japanese holly Ilex crenata PP, PPOF

Japanese honeysuckle Lonicera japonica PPOF, PPOF/SSH, SOF, SSH, SS Invasive

Low blueberry Vaccinium pallidum SSH, PPOF, PPSOB

Lowbush blueberry Vaccinium angustifolium

SSH, SS, PPOF, PPSOB

Mapleleaf viburnum Viburnum acerifolium PPOF

Multiflora rose Rosa multiflora PPOF, SS, SSH, SOF, SSH/SOF, PPOF/SSH

Invasive

Northern arrowwood Viburnum recognitum PPOF, SSH

Northern bayberry Myrica pensylvanica PPOF, PPSOB, SSH NYS Exploitably Vulnerable

Northern dewberry Rubus flagellaris PPOF, PPOF/SSH, SOF

Oriental bittersweet Celastrus orbiculata PPOF, SSH, SS, PPOF/SSH, SOF, SSH

Invasive

Poison ivy Rhus radicans PPOF, SSH, SS, PP, SOF, PPOF/SSH

Pokeweed Phytolacca americana

SOF, SS

Porcelain-berry Ampelopsis brevipedunculata

SOF, SS, PPOF

Red raspberry Rubus idaeus PPOF, PPOF/SSH

Sawbrier Smilax glauca PPOF, SOF, PPSOB

Silky dogwood Cornus amomum SS

Smooth sumac Rhus glabra SS

Southern arrowwood Viburnum dentatum SSH, PPOF

Staggerbush Lyonia mariana PPOF

Staghorn sumac

Rhus hirta SS, SOF

Summer grape Vitis aestivalis SS

Sweet fern Comptonia perigrina PPOF, SOF, PPSOB, PPOF/SSH

Tartarian honeysuckle Lonicera tatarica SOF, SSH Invasive

Virginia creeper Parthenocissus quinquefolia

PPOF, PP, SS, SSH, SOF

Viburnum, ornamental Viburnum spp. PPOF, SS

Wild rose Rosa virginiana PPOF, SS



Wineberry Rubus phoenicolasius SSH, SS, PP, SOF, PPOF/SSH Invasive

Winged burning bush Euonymus alatus SSH

Winged sumac Rhus copallinum PP, SS, PPOF, SSH, SOF

HERBACEOUS

Absinthe Artemisia absinthium SOF

Arrow-leaved violet Viola sagittata SOF

Asters Aster spp. SOF, SS

Barnyard grass Echinochloa crusgalli SOF

Bearberry Arctostaphylos uva-ursi

PPOF

Bedstraw Galium spp. SOF

Beggar tick Bidens frondosa SOF

Bird’s-foot trefoil Lotus corniculata SOF

Bitter nightshade Solanum dulcamara SSH, SOF, PPOF/SSH Invasive

Black-eyed susan Rudbeckia serotina SOF

Black knapweed Centaurea nigra SOF

Black medick Medicago lupulina SOF

Black swallow-wort Cynanchum louiseae SOF, SS, PPOF Invasive

Bladder campion Silene cucubalus SOF

Blue curls Trichostema dichotomum

SOF

Blue toad flax Linaria canadensis SOF, PPOF, SOF

Bouncing bet Saponaria officinalis SOF

Bracken fern Pteridium aquilinum PPOF, PPSOB

Bracted plantain Plantago aristata SOF

Bristly locust Robinia hispida SOF

Broom sedge Andropogon virginicus

SOF

Bull thistle Cirsium vulgare SOF, SSH

Butter-and-eggs Linaria vulgaris SOF

Buttonweed Diodia teres SOF



Catfoot Gnaphalium obtusifolim

SOF

Chickory Cichorium intybus SOF

Closed gentian Gentiana linearis SOF/SS NYS Exploitably Vulnerable

Clubmoss Lycopodium spp. PPOF, PPSOB Likely NYS Exploitably Vulnerable (dependent

upon species)

Common blue-eyed grass

Sisyrinchium montanum

SOF

Common burdock Arctium minus SOF

Common cinquefoil Potentilla simplex SOF

Common elder Sambucus canadensis

SSH, SOF

Common evening primrose

Oeonthera biennis SOF, PPOF/SSH, SSH

Common hairgrass Deschampsia flexuosa

SOF

Common lambsquarters Chenopodium album SOF, SSH

Common milkweed Asclepias syriaca SOF, SS PPOF, SSH

Common mugwort Artemisia vulgaris SOF, UVL, SSH, SS Invasive

Common mullein Verbascum thapsus SOF

Common plantain Plantago major SOF

Common ragweed Ambrosia artemisiifolia

SSH, SOF

Common reed Phragmites australis SOF Invasive

Common sow thistle Sonchus oleraceus SOF

Common St. Johnswort Hypericum perforatum

SOF, SS

Cowheat Melampyrum lineare PPOF

Crab grass Digitaria sanguinalis SOF

Creeping bent

Agrostis stolonifera SS, SOF

Crown vetch Coronilla varia SOF

Curled dock Rumex crispus SOF

Cutgrass Leersia spp. PPOF



Cypress spurge Euphorbia cyparissias SOF, PPOF/SSH Invasive

Daisy-fleabane Erigeron annuus PPOF, SOF

Deer-tongue grass Panicum clandestinum

SOF, SSH, WRB

Deptford pink Dianthus armeria SOF

Dwarf cinquefoil Potentilla canadensis SOF, SOF/UVL

Dwarf dandelion Krigia virginica SOF

Dudley’s rush Juncus dudleyi SOF

Early goldenrod Solidago juncea SOF

Eastern willow-herb Epilobium coloratum SOF

English plantain Plantago lanceolata SOF, SOF/UVL

Eyebane Euphoriba maculata SOF

Fleabane Erigeron philadephicus

SOF

Frostweed Helianthemum canadense

SOF, PPOF

Goldenrods Solidago spp. SOF, SS, SSH/SOF

Green foxtail Setaria viridis SOF

Hairy bush clover Lespedeza hirta SOF

Hawkweed Hieracium spp. SOF

Hop clover Trifolium agrarium SOF

Horseweed Erigeron canadensis SOF, SS, PPOF/SSH

Hyssop-leaved boneset Eupatorium hyssopifolium

PPOF, SOF

Indian grass Sorghastrum nutans SOF

Indian hemp Apocynum cannabinum

SOF

Indian-pipe Monotropa uniflora PPOF

Jointweed Polygonella articulata SOF

King-devil Hieracium caepitosum

SOF

Lady fern Athyrium filix-femina PPOF NYS Exploitably Vulnerable

Lady’s-sorrel Oxalis stricta SOF/UVL, SOF



Lady’s thumb Polygonum persicaria SOF, SS, SSH

Lance-leaved goldenrod Solidago graminifolia SOF

Late goldenrod Solidago gigantea SOF

Lovegrass Eragrostis pectinacea SOF

Mannagrass Glyceria spp. SOF

Maryland golden aster Chryopsis mariana SOF

Moth mullein Verbascum blattaria SOF

New England aster Aster novae-angliae SOF

New York Aster Aster novi-belgii SOF

Orange-grass Hypericum gentianoides

SOF

Orchard grass Dactylis glomerata PPOF, SOF, SS

Oxeye daisy Chrysanthemum leucanthemum

SOF, SSH

Panic grass Dicanthelium acuminatum

SOF

Panic grass Panicum spp. SOF, PPOF, SS

Panic grass Panicum lanuginosum var. implicatum

SOF

Path rush Juncus tenuis PPOF, SOF

Pearly everlasting Anapalis margaritacea

SOF

Pennsylvania sedge Carex pensylvanica PPOF, PPSOB, SOF

Pink knotweed Polygonum pensylvanicum

SOF

Pink lady’s slipper Cypripeidum acaule PPOF, PP NYS Exploitably Vulnerable

Pinweed Lechea spp. PPOF, SOF

Pinweed Lechea intermedia SOF, PPOF

Pipissewa Chimaphila umbellata PPOF NYS Exploitably Vulnerable

Poison ivy Rhus toxicodendron PPOF, SSH, PP, PPOF/SSH, SS, PPSOB, SOF

Poor man’s pepper Lepidum virginicum SSH, PPOF, SOF

Queen Anne’s lace Daucus carota SOF, SS



Red clover Trifolium pretense SOF

Redtop Agrostis gigantea SOF, SS

Rough cinquefoil Potentilla norvegica SOF

Rough-fruited cinquefoil Potentilla recta SOF

Round-headed bush clover

Lespedeza capitata SOF

Rough-leaved goldenrod Solidago patula SOF

Round-leaved pyrola Pyrola rotundifolia PPOF

Rough-stemmed goldenrod

Solidago rugosa SSH

Rush Juncus secundus SOF

Seaside goldenrod Solidago sempervirens

SOF

Sedge Carex bromoides PPOF

Sedge Carex spp. SS

Sheep sorrel Rumex acetosella SOF Invasive

Showy goldenrod Solidago speciosa SOF

Showy sunflower Helianthus laetiflorus SOF

Silvery cinquefoil Potentilla argentea SOF

Silver hairgrass Aira caryophyllea SOF

Slender bush clover Lespedeza virginica SOF

Smartweed Polygonum spp. SOF

Smartweed Polygonum pensylvanicum

SSH

Smooth panic grass Panicum dichotomiflorum

SOF

Slender-leaved goldenrod

Solidago tenuifolia SOF, PPOF

Slender vetch Vicia tetrasperma SOF

Spotted knapweed Centaurea maculosa SOF, SS PPOF/SSH, Invasive

Spotted St. John’s wort Hypericum punctatum SOF, SSH, WRB

Starflower Trientalis borealis PPOF

Spotted wintergreen Chimaphila maculata PPOF, PP NYS Exploitably Vulnerable



Sweet goldenrod Solidago odora PPOF, SOF

Sweet vernal grass Anthoxanthum odoratum

SOF

Sweet yellow clover Melilotus officinalis SOF, SS

Switch grass Panicum virgatum SOF, SS

Tall fescue Lolium arundinacum SOF

Tall goldenrod Solidago altissima SOF

Trailing wild bean Strophostyles helvola SOF

Thyme-leaved pinweed Lechea minor SOF, PPOF

Tick trefoil Desmodium spp. SOF

True solomon’s seal Polygonatum biflorum.

PPOF

Trumpet creeper Capmsis radicans SOF

Velvetgrass Holcus lanatus SOF

Venus’s looking glass Specularia perfoliata SOF

Water smartweed Polygonum amphibium

SSH, WRB

White campion Lychnis alba SOF

White clover Trifolium repens SOF, SOF/SS

White snakeroot Eupatorium rugosum SOF

White sweet clover Melilotus alba SOF

Whorled loosestrife Lysimachia quadrifolia

PPOF

Wild geranium Geranium maculatum SOF/UVL

Wild indigo Baptisia tinctoria SOF

Wild lettuce Lactuca canadensis SS, SOF

Wild lily-of-the valley Pyrola americana PPOF

Willow-herb Epilobium ciliatum SOF

Wintergreen Gaultheria procumbens

PPOF

Witchgrass Panicum capillare SOF

Woodland sunflower Helianthus divaricatus SOF

Yarrow Achillea millefolium SOF



Yellow nut-grass Cyperus esculentus SOF

Yellow sweet clover Melilotus officinalis SOF

Yellow wood sorrel Oxalis europaea SSH, SOF

Vegetative Community Key: PPOF: Pitch Pine-Oak Forest PPOF/SSH: Pitch Pine-Oak Forest/Sucessional Southern Hardwoods PPSOB: Pitch Pine Scrub Oak Barrens SOF: Successional Old Field SM: Sand Mine SS: Successional Shrubland SSH: Successional Southern Hardwoods UVL: Urban Vacant Lot WRB: Water Recharge Basin

3.2.1 Pitch Pine-Oak Forest

A pitch pine-oak forest (PPOF) community dominates the study area. Reschke (1990) defines the PPOF as a mixed forest community typically occurring on well-drained, sandy soils of glacial outwash plains or moraines. This community combined with several types of barrens and woodland communities make up the broadly defined ecosystem known as the Pine Barrens. Dominant trees are pitch pine (Pinus rigida) mixed with one or more of the following oaks: scarlet oak (Quercus coccinea), white oak (Quercus alba), red oak (Quercus rubra) or black oak (Quercus velutina). Reschke (1990) notes that the relative proportions of pines and oaks are quite variable within this community type and this variability is exhibited within the study area. Photos of the PPOF communities identified during the field surveys are provided in Appendix A (see Photos 1-6).

Overall, the relative proportion of oaks and pitch pine varies. Variation is likely linked to multiple factors including: soil conditions; clearing; disturbance including paths, fire and development; and proximity to other vegetative communities. Oaks predominate in the PPOF abutting the Sagtikos Parkway, north of G Road to the Long Island Expressway. Other PPOF areas reflect a more even representation of pitch pine and oaks in a mixed stand.

In general, the PPOF exhibits a rather well defined stratum regardless of its location. The structure of the PPOF located along the receiving tracks and a portion of the study area adjacent to the Sagtikos Parkway is consistent. The canopy is dominated by pitch pine, white oak and black locust (Robinia pseudo-accacia). The black locust is considered as an invasive species. The subcanopy is dominated by sassafras (Sassafras albidum), black cherry (Prunus serotina), chinquapin oak (Quercus prinoides) and black oak. The shrublayer is dominated by chinquapin oak, black cherry saplings, sassafras saplings and black huckleberry (Gaylussacia baccata). The herbaceous layer is dominated by northern dewberry (Rubus flagellaris), oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus), fox grape (Vitus labrusca) and Pennsylvania sedge (Carex pensylvanica).


In PPOF areas characterized by heavy pitch pine needle duff and more pitch pines than oaks, the herbaceous layer supports as less diverse mixture of bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum), spotted wintergreen (Chimaphila maculata) and pink lady’s slipper (Cypripedium acaule). Along one path, several individual specimens of pipissewa (Chimaphila umbellata) were observed. American holly (Ilex opaca) and northern bayberry (Myrica penslyvanica) were also observed in this location as well. On the edge of the PPOF community near the SSH community, flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) was also observed and is likley to have spread from plantings in the SSH. Several of these plants are listed by the NYSDEC as “exploitably vulnerable” protected native plants pursuant to 6NYCRR Part 193. They are further discussed later in this report. Paths, paved and unpaved, that bisect the PPOF communities are generally bordered by narrow edge communities of successional old field (SOF) and/or successional shrubland (SS) before transitioning to PPOF. The SOF and SS communities generally colonized disturbed areas that receive full or partial sun.

Variations of the PPOF community found within the study area are discussed in more detail below.

PPOF along the Receiving Yard

This PPOF community is bounded to the south by active railroad tracks running east-west and a narrow successional old field (SOF) community. Approximately 30 feet north of this SOF, a chain link fence is present atop man-made berm. The PPOF south of this fence supports numerous clusters of spotted wintergreen. The southern end of this PPOF area also maintains another artificially created soil mound running north-south approximately 55 feet east of the path’s edge. An invasive plant, European buckthorn (Rhamnus frangula) was found between the path and this soil mound.

The PPOF woodlands are also bounded on the west by a path that was predominantly paved path and railroad tracks running north-south. The tracks are in various stages of disrepair ranging from tracks that are actively utilized for railroad car storage in the southern end to tracks that are almost completely degraded to the north. The majority of the decrepit railroad tracks lie on top of a berm that is overgrown with the PPOF. The path is flanked by a very narrow SOF and SS community. In addition, black swallow-wort (Cynachum louiseae), an invasive plant, is present in the PPOF just south of the entrance to the Intermodal Yard. The presence of this plant extends south and east to cross over SOF and PRP communities to reenter the under story of the PPOF on the east side of the path.

The southern end of the railroad tracks is vegetated with SOF and, as stated above, the paved path is flanked by narrow communities of SOF and SS communities. These corridors promote some invasive species that typically enter transportation corridors. Some saplings of princess tree (Pawlonia tomentosa), an invasive species, were found along the path edges. Other invasive species found within this PPOF include: black swallow-wort and European buckthorn.

PPOF within the Intermodal Yard

The PPOF along the western and southern edges of the Intermodal Yard is similar to the PPOF in the eastern section of the study area. The canopy is dominated by pitch pine, white oak and


red oak. The sub canopy is dominated by black cherry, black oak and white oak. The shrub layer is dominated by scrub oak, low bush blueberry and black huckleberry. The herbaceous layer is rather sparse but dominated by bracken fern and Pennsylvania sedge. The southern portion of the PPOF and an area north of the western extension of G Road supports European larch (Larix europea) in the canopy. This non-native species was likely introduced to the study area. Also, pink lady’s slipper and spotted wintergreen were found along the unpaved path edges in the PPOF where pine needle duff was dense and light filtered through the canopy. Small areas of PPOF such as an area north of the water recharge basin are dominated by a mix of pitch pine, quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides), black oak and red oak.

PPOF within the Long Island Expressway Interchange Area

Small portions of PPOF are located in the vicinity of the Long Island Expressway interchange with the Sagtikos Parkway, and along Crooked Hill Road.

PPOF Areas South of G Road

The area between G Road and the Intermodal Yard was also surveyed to characterize the vegetation in the vicinity of the proposed project. In this location, the canopy is dominated by pitch pine and a mix of oaks. Openings in the canopy are dominated by stands of big-tooth aspen (Populus grandidentata). The sub canopy was dominated by black cherry, a hybrid oak – a mix of post oak (Quercus stellata) and white oak, and black oak. Gray birch, although not dominant, was more prevalent in the sub canopy than in other PPOF areas. The shrub layer supported more scrub oak (Quercus ilicifolia), sweet fern (Comptonia perigrina) and lowbush blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium). Also found in this layer were dense groves of the tall shrub, great laurel or rosebay (Rhodendron maximum), a NYS Exploitably Vulnerable plant. The herbaceous layer was dominated by Pennsylvania sedge and bracken fern. This PPOF includes paved and unpaved paths and two small areas of debris (labeled as junkyards). This PPOF also contains a few small vacant brick structures that appear to be former pump houses. In more open areas and adjacent to the structures, small areas of SOF are present. Along most of the paths, edges are colonized with PPOF. Along path edges in the PPOF with dense pine needle duff, filtered light promotes the growth of pink lady’s slipper and spotted wintergreen. These species are commonly found unpaved path edges in PPOF communities that maintain similar light conditions. In this PPOF, the railroad tracks that extend north-south are indistinguishable and are overgrown with PPOF.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve abuts the northwestern boundary of the Intermodal Yard. This parcel is primarily pitch pine scrub-oak barrens (PPSOB), but does include portions of PPOF as well.

3.2.2 Pitch Pine-Oak Forest/Southern Successional Hardwoods

A variant or transition area between two communities, PPOF and southern successional hardwood (SSH) communities, form a PPOF/SSH community. This transitional community occupies the western portion of the Intermodal Yard bordering some of the sand mines.


Based on the varying tree diameters and heights, the PPOF/SSH areas are of different ages and represent the many stages of a successional forest. The preponderance of cherries within this area is probably linked to the fact that cherries are pioneer species entering early after clearing or burns. Pin cherry, present in the PPOF/SSH, is a small tree or shrub that is especially common following clearings or burns. Also, black cherry is a pioneer invader tree of open fields and woodlots that is tolerant of a wide range of soil moisture levels yet requires sunlight. Prolific fruit production and the resultant seed distribution by birds and mammals enable the cherries to quickly invade and become established. However, it is suspected that the black cherry, an early successional species, will lose dominance in the canopy over time as oaks and pitch pines of the mature woodland community overtop and shade it out. Consequently, it is suspected that without disturbance, the PPOF/SSH will transition to a PPOF community dominated by oaks and pitch pine.

PPOF/SSH within the Intermodal Yard

In the southeastern section of the Intermodal Yard, the PPOF/SSH canopy is dominated by black cherry with lesser amounts of white oak. A mix of black, red and scarlet oaks are also present but relatively few pitch pines are present in the canopy. The sub canopy is dominated by black cherry, choke cherry (Prunus virginiana) and white oak. The shrub layer is dominated by black and choke cherry saplings, the invasive wineberry (Rubus phoenicolasius), and black raspberry (Rubus allegheniensis). The herbaceous layer is dominated by another invasive species, Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) along with poison ivy (Rhus toxicodendron) and northern dewberry. Openings in this section of the PPOF/SSH are dominated by cherries. This is not uncommon given cherries are a light requiring pioneer species that quickly establish in cleared areas. Mapping and aerial photography reviewed by NYSDOT suggest that this area was formerly cleared for sand mining. The presence of berms also suggests that this area may have been part of former sand mines or an area cleared for their construction.

Areas bordering the sand mines north of the western extension of G Road within the Intermodal Yard are also flanked by PPOF/SSH. In this community, he canopy supports black cherry and a mix of oaks (scarlet, black, red and white) and pitch pine. Gray birch (Betula populifolia) and black cherry dominate the sub canopy. The shrub layer is dominated by a mix of black cherry, choke cherry, gray birch, pitch pine and various oaks. The herbaceous layer is dominated by seedlings of oaks, black cherry, choke cherry, and hawthorn (Crataegus spp.); Japanese honeysuckle and the invasive cypress spurge (Euphorbia cyparissias). Gray birch is not frequently found within the study area except around the sand mines. However, this is expected because gray birch is a short-lived pioneer tree that quickly establishes itself on clearings and excavated areas. Gray birch acts as a nurse tree, that shades and protects seedlings of larger, long-lived forest trees, yet becomes shaded out as these trees overtop it.

The pine plantation (PP) community is predominantly located on the north side of the extension of G Road in the Intermodal Yard. However, a small area of PP extends to the south side of G Road. The PP is comprised of a dense stand of white pines (Pinus strobus). The sub canopy is somewhat sparsely dominated by Japanese holly (Ilex crenata) and European privet (Ligustrum vulgare) shrubs. A few shrubs of American holly (Ilex opaca), a NYS Exploitably Vulnerable plant, are also present near the unpaved trail. In openings where light entered, white pine saplings and a few black cherry saplings are present. Along the path edges, black cherry, scrub


oak and hawthorns comprise the sub canopy. Poison ivy (Rhus toxicodendron) is present as a shrub layer over a dense pine needle bed with scattered Virginia creeper (Parthenocisssus quinquefolia) in the herbaceous layer. Along the path edge amidst the pine needle duff and filtered light, pink lady’s slipper and spotted wintergreen are found. This community would be considered a monoculture of pines, with more than 90% of the canopy cover consisting of one species. The ground layer is usually sparse because of the dense accumulation of leaf litter. The small areas of PP south of the western extension of G Road are predominantly comprised of white pine trees. Photos of the PP communities identified during the field surveys are provided in Appendix A (see Photos 17-20).

3.2.3 Pitch pine scrub-oak barrens

The pitch pine scrub-oak barrens (PPSOB) community appears to correspond to an area that was formerly burned along the west side of the Sagtikos Parkway. This community is surrounded by PPOF to the north, south and west suggesting that over time and without periodic fires or other disturbances, this community may revert back to PPOF. The PPSOB canopy is dominated by pitch pine. The sub canopy is very open with various saplings of oaks including white, black and scarlet oak. The shrub layer is dominated by scrub oak with some Chinquapin oak. A lower shrub layer is dominated by black huckleberry, sweet fern, low bush blueberry and low blueberry (Vaccinum pallidum). Patches of herbaceous vegetation are dominated by Pennsylvania sedge and bracken fern. The deep burn areas are re-colonized by dense shrub thickets of predominantly scrub oak. Photos of the PP communities identified during the field surveys are provided in Appendix A (see Photos 21-24).

A much larger section of the PPSOB community is contiguous to the area of the PPSOB within the study area. It is similar in composition to the PPSOB within the study area. Within the Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve, which abuts the northwestern boundary of the Intermodal Yard, PPSOB predominates. In fact, it is the largest remnant of PPSOB on Long Island (NYSDEC, 1994).

3.2.4 Southern Successional Hardwood

The southern successional hardwood (SSH) community is present throughout the study area b but it is primarily focused in formerly disturbed areas within the Intermodal Yard and the Long Island Expressway interchange area. The SSH canopy is generally dominated by black cherry solely or with another species. Most often, tree-of-heaven co-dominates the canopy, but it is often replaced with big-tooth aspen, black locust, Norway maple (Acer platanoides) or white poplar (Populus alba). The sub canopy is dominated by saplings of black cherry, choke cherry and hawthorns. Oriental bittersweet and black raspberry dominate the shrub layer. Japanese honeysuckle dominates the herbaceous layer. A few specimens of flowering dogwood, a NYS Exploitably Vulnerable species, were observed in this community and were likely planted. The SSH community is bisected by unpaved and paved roads/paths often lined with narrow edges of SS and/or SOF.

The SSH community also lines the berms dividing the sand mines in the southern portion of the Intermodal Yard. Along the berms, black cherries dominate all layers of the SSH. Typically, SSH on the berms is dominated by black cherry with some oaks or tree-of-heaven. The sub canopy is dominated by black cherry. The shrub layer is dominated by black cherry, choke


cherry, gray birch and sometimes scrub oak. The herbaceous layer is dominated by black cherry seedlings, poison ivy and Virginia creeper.

A SSH community with patches of SOF, denoted SSH/SOF patch, is present to the east of the easternmost sand mines. From old aerial photographs, the USFWS NWI maps and observations of the study area topography, it appears that this area once comprised of part of four small basins that have become overgrown. These four basins are separated by east-west oriented berms and appear to be part of an eight berm system. A large berm that maintains the remnants of a concrete path and is mapped as PRP bisects the eight basin into two sets of four basins each.

A mixed community of SSH and SS, denoted SSH/SS, is also present in the eastern portion of the Intermodal Yard. Both these mixed communities are transitional communities that will likely revert to SSH without disturbance. Photos of the SSH communities identified during field surveys are provided in Appendix A (see Photos 25-31).

3.2.5 Successional Shrubland

The successional shrubland (SS) community is a transitional vegetative zone that occupies right-of-ways and path edges between the successional old field and forested communities (e.g., SSH, PPOF/SSH, PPSOB, PP and PPOF). It is located within the Intermodal Yard site, in the Long Island Expressway interchange areas, and along G road. Reschke (1990) defines the SS community as an area with at least 50% cover of shrubs occurring on sites that have been cleared or otherwise disturbed. In the western part of the Intermodal Yard and along the receiving railroad tracks, this community reflects the adjacent forest community and, in general, is very narrow. The community is dominated by scrub oak, gray birch, saplings of black and choke cherries and white oak. Low blueberry (Vaccinium pallidum) was also present with panic grasses (Panicum spp.) and redtop (Agrostis gigantea) in the herbaceous layer. As stated earlier, the highly invasive plant, black swallow-wort spans the PPOF and the narrow SS and SOF edges along receiving tracks.

East of the sand mines in the Intermodal Yard, SS is more prevalent. This is likely due to the presence of the remnants of old buildings, proximity to clearings and the high frequency of disturbance generated by motorbikes/ATVs. In some instances, this community was dominated by saplings of smooth sumac (Rhus glabra), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), black cherry, choke cherry, hawthorns or crab-apples (Malus spp.). In a few areas open to light, stands of smooth sumac dominated. The understory associated with this community includes black raspberry, multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora), Oriental bittersweet and Japanese honeysuckle.

Portions of the some sand mines north of the western extension of G Road have been re-colonized by SS dominated by false heather (Hudsonia tomentosa), a plant locally abundant in the pine barrens from New Brunswick to Virginia (Britton & Brown, 1970). Within the central section of the Intermodal Yard (south of G Road), a successional shrubland community is present and dominated by autumn olive. This shrubland community grew noticeably larger between 2004 and 2005 indicative of the shrub’s ability to rapidly invade open grasslands.

Photos of the SSH communities identified during the field surveys are provided in Appendix A (see Photos 17 and 31-34).


3.2.6 Successional Old Field

The successional old field (SOF) community is present at path and building edges, areas near mowed lawn and successional shrubland and areas formerly excavated or disturbed.

SOF within the Intermodal Yard

In general, the SOF areas in the eastern half of the Intermodal Yard and closest to the western extension of G Road are dominated by alien (invasive) species such as common mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) and show evidence of recent disturbance. This disturbance is often dumping or ATVs/motor bikes. The large SOF area east of the pine plantation in the northern section of the yard is dominated by various grasses and forbes, especially common mugwort, red clover (Trifolium pretense) and spotted knapweed. SOF communities also are present on former unpaved paths and roads throughout this section of the site. An invasive plant, the Common reed (Phragmites australis), has spread into an SS community on one of the former paths. A large SOF community encircling a SS community lies immediately south of G Road is dominated by sweet vernal grass (Anthoxanthum odoratum) and orchard grass. Raptors have commonly been sighted flying over this area hunting rodents and small birds.

The SOF areas in the western half of the Intermodal Yard are communities that have been able to become established without much recent disturbance and therefore, are dominated by more native species, such as goldenrods (Solidago spp.) and horseweed (Erigeron canadensis). In the southwestern section of the yard, some of the sand mines have been revegetated partially or fully with SOF vegetation. The SOF present in former sand mines east of the power plant are dominated by common mugwort and spotted knapweed (Centaurea maculosa) and appear to have been recently cleared for the construction of the power plant.

SOF along the Receiving Tracks

Within the north-south receiving tracks area, SOF is present within portions of the railroad tracks and amid the SS community along the edges of the paved road/path. The northern end of the SOF lining the paved road/path supports a highly invasive plant, black swallow-wort. The SOF community immediately abutting the existing railroad tracks on the yard site is dominated by common mugwort with a high proportion of pinweed (Lechea spp.), horseweed and spotted knapweed. A SOF community also extends northward along the receiving tracks. This community is more diverse and is dominated by broom sedge (Andropogon virginicus), lance-leaved goldenrod (Solidago graminifolia) and other various goldenrods before gradually transitioning into PPOF.

SOF within the Long Island Expressway Interchange Area

A small area of SOF is located along the southeastern end of an existing recharge basin within the interchange area. This area was not accessible due to fencing.

Photos of the SOF communities identified during the field surveys are provided in Appendix A (see Photos 17-18, 28, 32-38 and 40).


3.2.7 Successional Old Field/Successional Shrubland

A mixed SOF/SS community lines part of the paved road/paths within the southeastern section of the Intermodal Yard and a small area of SOF/SS is present west of the water recharge basin where the closed gentian (Gentiana linearis), a NYS exploitably vulnerable plant, was found. This area lies adjacent to SSH and PPOF and will likely transition to SSH and ultimately PPOF if disturbance is minimal.

Photos of the SOF/SS community identified during the field surveys are provided in Appendix A (see Photo 41).

3.2.8 Successional Old Field/Urban Vacant Land

One area of this community is found in an area within the Intermodal Yard site formerly comprised of four linear north-south pits or cells. The center of these pits/cells is predominately barren earth. Low berms separating the pits/cells and patchy areas with the cells are vegetated with the SOF community. The barren areas are likely due to continual disturbance from motorbikes/ATVs. The berms along the north, south and eastern borders of the four eastern pits/cells are low, while an elevated paved path forms a steep western edge.

The area south of the recharge basin is a disturbed area crisscrossed by large areas of exposed soil and depressions amidst a preponderance of common mugwort. Consequently, it is considered a variant community, a mix of UVL and successional old field (SOF) to make the SOF/UVL. A few trees are found scattered amidst the herbaceous vegetation and are predominantly mulberries (Morus spp.). These trees comprise the SSH patches. This area serves as an overflow area for the water recharge basin to the north. The northern end of the SOF/UVL with SSH patches is bermed to support the water recharge basin to the north. This area is very heavily utilized by ATVs/motorbikes.

Photos of the SOF/UVL communities identified during the field surveys are provided in Appendix A (see Photos 42-43).

3.2.9 Urban Vacant Land

This area is primarily an open area of exposed soil with small patches of successional old field vegetation. This community is highly disturbed and is highly utilized by ATVs and/or motorbikes. The UVL continues to northeast outside the study area. Reschke (1990) defines the UVL community as a sparsely vegetated open site with large areas of exposed soil in a developed, urban area that has been cleared either for construction or following the demolition of a building. Photos of the UVL communities identified during the field surveys are provided in Appendix A (see Photos 44-45).

3.2.10 Paved Road/Paths

Paved roads and paths (PRP) and paved areas are also present within the study area. PRP identified in the survey include: 1) minor roads that serve as access to the power plant and/or through the study area; and 2) fire lanes or narrow roadways (approximately 5-10 feet wide). Most of the narrow roadways are located in PPOF communities in the eastern section of the Intermodal Yard and in the vicinity of the receiving tracks. With age and ATV/motorbike usage,


many of these fire lanes are transitioning to unpaved road/paths. The narrow PRPs are often flanked by SS or SOF where clearing has occurred and sufficient sunlight is present. In the PPOF where little light enters onto the PRPs, the path edges are usually flanked by the adjacent woodland communities. This category does not include main arterials roads such as Crooked Hill Road, Sagtikos Parkway, G Road outside the yard site and the Long Island Expressway. An example of PRP areas identified during the field surveys is provided in Appendix A (see Photo 46).

3.2.11 Sand Mine

Former excavated areas with sandy bottoms characterize the majority of the Intermodal Yard site. These sand mines (SM) are slightly recessed areas surrounded by elevated berms. ATV/motorbike use is exhibited in all the basins with the most frequent usage evident in the southeastern mines. Unused paintballs and strategically placed wooden boards and old metal drums were found, suggesting that at least one of the northern sand mines was utilized for paintball games. Also, ATV/motorbike tracks suggest also that the sand mine and berms are heavily used. The majority of the sand mines maintain little to no vegetation. However, some less disturbed sand mines exhibit areas of SOF or SS vegetation described above. Some of the mines do maintain spotty areas of trees including gray birch or black cherry, both pioneer light requiring species. Most of the berms separating the southern sand mines are colonized by SSH vegetation described above while the berms of the northern sand mines are colonized by PPOF/SSH and PPOF communities. Photos of the SM areas identified during the field surveys are provided in Appendix A (see Photos 1-2 and 47-48).

3.2.12 Unpaved Road/Paths

Many unpaved road/paths (URP) crisscross the Intermodal Yard as dirt paths; these paths range from approximately 4-10 feet wide. The paths are especially prevalent in the eastern half of the yard site. Some URPs are formerly paved road/paths. Two distinct URPs run along the southern edge of the Intermodal Yard. Both exhibit wheel ruts that regularly collect rainwater and melted snow. These ruts do not support vegetation but serve as toad and/or frog habitat as evidenced in July and August 2004. Unfortunately, the high number of URPs and PRPs promote dumping of construction debris (i.e. lumber, siding material, appliances, cars, etc.), yard refuse (leaves) and ATV/motorbike use within the Intermodal Yard site. Photos of the URP areas identified during the field surveys are provided in Appendix A (see Photos 51-52).

3.2.13 Urban Structure Exterior and Urban Structure Exterior/Paved/Road Path

Vacant and active structures are present in the Intermodal Yard. Adjacent to the junkyard, a vacant building is present and is denoted USE. To the northeast of this building are two other buildings. The easternmost building, denoted as USE/PRP, appears to be actively utilized while the other building appears vacant. Throughout the Intermodal Yard, particularly on the berms separating the sand mines, large concrete footings are noted as USEs.

Vacant structures are also found in the woods abutting the Sagtikos Parkway and south of G Road. A few small brick buildings, possibly pump houses, are scattered in the PPOF east of the Intermodal Yard. These are denoted USEs. An active power plant and its associated structures are located adjacent to the Intermodal Yard. This plant was built on three former sand mines


and is classified as an urban structure exterior with paved road path (USE/PRP). Two small structures, possibly transformers, are located along a new unpaved path extending south of the plant. An old railroad station is also present at the northern edge of the SSH woods south of G Road and west of the Sagtikos Parkway. Photos of the USE and USE/PRP areas identified during the field surveys are provided in Appendix A (see Photos 49-50).

3.2.14 Junkyard

Although many of the paths throughout the study area have been used for some degree of dumping, one area is noted on the vegetative maps as junkyard (JY) given its high concentration of debris. Most dumping appears to be concentrated on the eastern end of Intermodal Yard, but is also evident in other areas. Ease of access likely promotes dumping along roadways and adjacent developed sites. Photos of the JY areas identified during the field surveys are provided in Appendix A (see Photos 47, 50 and 53).

3.2.15 Water Recharge Basins

Two water recharge basins (WRB) were found within the study area. According to Reschke (1990), a water recharge basin is an aquatic community of a constructed depression that receives runoff from paved surfaces and allows the water to percolate to the groundwater, thereby recharging groundwater. The basin within the Intermodal Yard is mapped as a WRB; the other basin (RB99) is located in the Long Island Expressway interchange area.

The WRB is a constructed storm water detention basin and standing water was observed during the survey. The WRB is surrounded by a chain link fence located on top of a steeply sloped berm. A narrow area fringe of herbaceous vegetation and shrubs is present on the edge of the basin. The dominant plant along the shoreline was water smartweed (Polygonum amphibium) found growing in the water and shoreline. Less frequent around the sediment island included spotted st. johns wort (Hypericum punctatum) and deer-tongue grass (Panicum clandestinum). The basin is surrounded by a SSH community that is dominated by black cherry and tree-of-heaven in the canopy; shrub honeysuckles (Lonicera spp.) and winged sumac (Rhus copallinum) in the shrub layer; and oriental bittersweet and Japanese honeysuckle in the herbaceous layer.

RB99 is a deep depression with little vegetation around it. A chain link fence and gate surround the basin preventing access and further investigation. The following vegetative types are located in the vicinity of the basin: SOF, PPOF, SS, URP and ML.

Photos of the water basins identified during the field surveys are provided in Appendix A (see Photos 54-56).

3.2.16 Mowed Lawn

The Mowed Lawn (ML) community is dominated by clipped grasses where there is less than 30% cover of trees. Shrubs may be present, usually with less than 50% cover. ML communities are present within the study are as narrow swaths along G Road, Sagtikos Parkway, Crooked Hill Road and the Long Island Expressway. A small area of ML is also located in the northern section of the Intermodal Yard.


3.2.17 Mowed Lawn with Trees

The Mowed Lawn with Trees (MLT) community is dominated by clipped grasses and it is shaded by at least 30% cover of trees. Shrubs may be present, usually with less than 50% cover. MLT communities comprise are located within the Intermodal Yard site north and west of G Road, as shown in Appendix A, Photo 57 .

3.3 WETLANDS

Wetlands are defined and regulated on both the State and Federal level. Review of the NYSDEC Freshwater Wetland Map, Greenlawn Quad (1993) indicated there are no State mapped or regulated freshwater wetlands within the study area. The USFWS NWI Map, Greenlawn Quad (1980 data) shows three types of wetlands within the study area (see Figure 3-4). One wetland type, POWKhx, an excavated palustrine open water system that is artificially flooded and diked/impounded, is mapped as 20 separate cells or areas, The second type, POWFx, an excavated palustrine open water system that is semi-permanently flooded is shown as two contiguous areas. The POWFx wetlands correspond to the WRB and its overflow area. The third type of wetland indicated is PFLAx, an excavated palustrine flat system that is temporarily flooded. This wetland corresponds to RB99, the basin in the Long Island Expressway interchange area.

3.3.1 POWKhx Wetlands

The areas shown on the NWI map were investigated to confirm the presence or absence of freshwater wetlands. The areas (cells) noted as POWKhx wetlands were not found to be wetlands according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers guidelines. The cells do not possess hydrophytic vegetation, wetland hydrology nor wetland soils necessary to meet the federal definition of a wetland. The cells are either barren sand mines or partially re-vegetated sand mines with primarily successional old field vegetation.

3.3.2 POWFx Wetlands

The NWI map identifies the two easternmost wetlands on the Intermodal Yard site as excavated palustrine open water systems semi-permanently flooded (POWFx). Field investigations revealed that the northern area is an engineered extended storm water detention basin and the southern area, which is often dry, is a designed overflow area. The basin is flanked by steep slopes. Berms, likely formed by excavation of the surrounding lands, are present. A chain link fence surrounds the basin and a small area of SSH woodlands is located to the north. The basin receives runoff from the north via a large culvert with 3 concrete pipes emptying onto a


Crooked Hill Rd

Grand Blvd

Northern Pkwy

Crooked Hill Rd

Long Island Ave.

Sagt

ikos

Pkw

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Wicks Rd.


Com

mac

k R

d

Recharge Basin#99 (RB)

Water Recharge Basin(WRB)

Figure 3-4USFWS Wetlands

0 1,100 2,200Feet

0 300 600Meters



USFWS Wetlands of Interest


concrete spillway (see Photo 56 in Appendix A). Neither the origin of this runoff nor the drainage area of this basin is known. A large sediment island was also evident adjacent to the spillway. The basin includes a riser pipe to regulate water levels. Field investigations confirmed that the water level of the basin varied with the season with riser pipe only evident during the dry periods of July and August 2004. The basin includes a small area of herbaceous hydrophytic vegetation dominated by water smartweed. It is used as a breeding ground for toads and frogs, including the American bullfrog (Rana catesbiana), Fowler’s toad (Bufo woodhousei) and green frog (Rana clamintans), and by visiting waterfowl such as the Canada goose (Branta canadensis) and mallard (Anas platyrhynchos).

This basin is connected via piping to the overflow area to the south when there are excess flows and storm surges. This piping was not readily visible due to the water levels and vegetation. The overflow area contained no wetland plants and comprises a variant community of SOF dominated by common mugwort and urban vacant land, barren soil, and some trees. The southern overflow area was dry on most of the site visits. During these dry periods, unvegetated rills with sediment and small stones were present in front of the discharge pipes indicating past storm surges. This area did not maintain hydrophytic vegetation or hydric soils, yet, is unclear if the area maintains wetland hydrology. According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Wetlands Delineation Manual (1987) an area has wetland hydrology if it is inundated or saturated to the surface continuously for at least 5% of the growing season in most years.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (1987) notes that regulated wetlands typically maintain all three parameters – hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils and wetland hydrology. However, the Corps of Engineers also regulates atypical wetlands such as man-induced wetlands (i.e., the storm water basins) that do not possess all three parameters. The NYSDOT has confirmed that USACE does not regulate any wetland within NYSDOT basins (NYSDOT - S. Fahti, E-mail August 12, 2005).

3.3.3 PFLAx Wetlands

The NWI map identifies the basin within the Long Island Expressway interchange area as an excavated palustrine flat system that is temporarily flooded (PFLAx wetland). Field surveys investigations confirmed that this wetland is an engineered recharge basin. It is a deep depression amid level ground with little vegetation around it. A chain link fence and gate surround prevented access and the observation of whether or not standing water was present.

3.4 AVIFAUNA

The avian species profile for the study area includes species that were observed or are expected to utilize the identified ecological communities within the project area. Expected species also include those species that are documented for adjacent areas, notably the NYSDEC’s Oak Brush Plains State Preserve at Edgewood and the Heartland Development. Breeding birds were surveyed over four days in May and June 2004. The sections below discuss the avian species observed and expected within the study area as well as the breeding bird survey.


3.4.1 Characteristic Avifauna

Based on data compiled by the New York Natural Heritage Program (Reschke, 1990 & Edinger et al., 2002) and others, Table 3-3 provides a list of characteristic avifauna for most of the vegetative communities identified within the study area.

This large diversity of habitats within a relatively small area, produces “multiple-edges” type habitats. As the amount of habitat edge increases, there is generally an associated increase in the diversity of wildlife species inhabiting the area. This increased “edge” habitats typically attract non-native species, such as rock dove (Columba livia), European starling (Sturnus vulgaris), and house sparrow (Passer domesticus); and typically results in an increase in nest parasitism by brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater). The contiguous woodlands that abut Intermodal Yard, such as the PPOF and PPSOB communities along the west side of the Sagitkos Parkway and the NYSDEC’s Oak Brush Plains State Preserve at Edgewood, serve as important habitats for sustaining “forest interior” species, such as prairie warbler (Dendroica discolor) and ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapilla), require large un-interrupted woodland territories to maintain viable populations.

TABLE 3-3: CHARACTERISTIC AVIFAUNA FOR VEGETATIVE COMMUNITIES WITHIN STUDY AREA

Vegetative Community Characteristic Avifauna

MLT American robin, mourning dove, northern mockingbird

PP Great horned owl

PPOF Eastern towhee, common yellowthroat, field sparrow, prairie warbler, pine warbler, blue jay, chipping sparrow, northern flicker, brown thrasher, mourning dove, great horned owl, red-bellied woodpecker, northern bobwhite, red-breasted nuthatch

PPOF - Oak Dominated

Gray catbird, northern flicker, blue jay, white-breasted nuthatch, great horned owl, wood thrush, eastern towhee, red-bellied woodpecker, northern bobwhite

PPOF/SSH Eastern towhee, common yellowthroat, field sparrow, prairie warbler, pine warbler, blue jay, chipping sparrow, brown thrasher, mourning dove, great horned owl, northern bobwhite, red-breasted nuthatch, gray catbird, northern flicker, blue jay, white-breasted nuthatch, great horned owl, wood thrush, eastern towhee, red-bellied woodpecker, chestnut-sided warbler, American robin, American crow, black-capped chickadee, downy woodpecker, white-breasted nuthatch

PPSOB Eastern towhee, common yellowthroat, field sparrow, prairie warbler, brown-headed cowbird, indigo bunting, brown thrasher, northern bobwhite, ovenbird, common yellowthroat, chipping sparrow, gray catbird, pine warbler, great horned owl, red bellied woodpecker, northern flicker

SM Bank swallow

SOF Field sparrow, northern bobwhite

SOF/UVL, UVL Killdeer

SS American robin, willow flycatcher, blue-winged warbler, brown thrasher, golden-winged warbler, chestnut-sided warbler, yellow-breasted chat, eastern towhee, field sparrow, song sparrow, indigo bunting, northern bobwhite

SSH Chestnut-sided warbler, American robin, American crow, black-capped chickadee, downy woodpecker, white-breasted nuthatch

URP Killdeer

USE Rock dove, house sparrow


Vegetative Community Characteristic Avifauna

WRB Canada geese, mallard

Common throughout Long Island Habitats

Black-capped chickadee, American robin, American crow, downy woodpecker

Sources: Edinger, G.J. D.J. Evans, S. Gauer, T.G. Howard, D.M. Hunt and A.M. Olivero (Edts). 2002. Ecological Communities of New York State Second Edition. A revised and expanded edition of above citation (Draft for Review) NY Natural Heritage Program, NYSDEC, Albany, NY (http://www.dec.state.ny.us/website/dfwmr/heritage/draft_ecny2002.htm) Kricher, J.C. 1988. The Peterson Field Guide Series, A Field Guide to Eastern Forests, North American Houghton Mifflin Co., Boston, MA. Levine, Emanuel 1998. Bull’s Birds of New York State, Cornell University Press, Ithaca, NY Reschke, Carol. 1990. Ecological Communities of New York State, NY Natural Heritage Program, NYSDEC, Latham, NY (http://www.dec.state.ny.us/website/dfwmr/heritage/EcolComm.htm) Sibley, D.A. 2000. National Audubon Society The Sibley Guide to Birds, Alfred A. Knopf, New York, NY Springer-Rushia, L. & P.G. Stewart, 1996. A Field Guide to Long Island Woodlands, Museum of Long Island Natural Sciences, Stony, NY.

Based on the habitat types present, over 99 different avian species are expected to utilize the study area for resting, foraging and nesting. As shown in Table 3-4, a total of 67 species were positively identified during the 2004-2005 field surveys; 43 were recorded as exhibiting some type of breeding behavior on the study area and 2 were recorded as strictly flyovers.

TABLE 3-4: AVIAN SPECIES OBSERVED AND EXPECTED IN THE STUDY AREA

Common name Scientific name

NYS Breeding Bird List

and Behavior1

NYS Legal Status

Onsite Findings2

Onsite Breeding

Bird Survey1

Habitat Use3/ Avian

Type4

American black duck Anas rubripes O V, WA

American Crow Corvus brachyrhynchos CO Game Species O Fo PO B, P

American Goldfinch Carduelis tristis PR Protected O PR B, P

American Kestrel Falco sparverius PO Protected O M, R

American Redstart

Setophaga ruticilla Protected O B, P

American Robin Turdus migratorius CO Protected O CO B,P

American Woodcock Scolopax minor PR Game Species E M, GB

Baltimore Oriole Icterus galbula CO Protected O CO B, P




and Behavior1

NYS Legal Status

Onsite Findings2

Onsite Breeding

Bird Survey1

Habitat Use3/ Avian

Type4

Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica PO Protected O B, P

Belted Kingfisher Megaceryle alcyon Protected C V, P

Black-and-white Warbler Mniotilta varia Protected O PO B, P

Black-billed Cuckoo

Coccyzus erythropthalmus Protected O M, P

Blackburnian warbler Dendroica fusca Protected E M, P

Black-capped Chickadee

Poecile atricapillus CO Protected O CO B, P

Blackpoll Warbler Dendroica striata Protected O M, P

Black-throated blue warbler

Dendroica caerulescens Protected E M, P

Black-throated green warbler

Dendroica virens Protected E M, P

Blue Jay Cyanocitta cristata CO Protected O PR B, P

Blue-winged Warbler Vermivora pinus CO Protected E M, P

Brown creeper Certhia familiaris Protected O V, P

Brown Thrasher Toxostoma rufum CO Protected O PR B, P

Brown-headed Cowbird Molothrus ater PO Protected O PR B, P

Canada Goose Branta canadensis CO Game Species O Fo PO B, WA

Carolina Wren Thryothorus ludovicianus PR Protected O B, P

Cedar Waxwing Bombycilla cedrorum CO Protected O Fo PR B, P

Cerulean warbler Dendroica cerulea

Special Concern C M, P

Chimney Swift Chaetura pelagica Protected O PO B, P

Chipping Sparrow

Spizella passerina CO Protected O CO B, P

Common Grackle Quiscalus quiscula CO Protected O Fo PO B, P




and Behavior1

NYS Legal Status

Onsite Findings2

Onsite Breeding

Bird Survey1

Habitat Use3/ Avian

Type4

Common Yellowthroat

Geothlypis trichas CO Protected O CO B, P

Cooper's Hawk Accipiter cooperii CO

Special Concern E M, R

Dark-eyed junco Junco hyemalis Protected O WI, P

Downy Woodpecker

Picoides pubescens CO Protected O PO B, P

Eastern bluebird Sialia sialis Protected E V, P

Eastern Kingbird Tyrannus tyrannus CO Protected O PR B, P

Eastern meadowlark Sturnella magna Protected E V, P

Eastern Phoebe Sayornis phoebe PR Protected E B, P

Eastern Screech-Owl Otus asio PR Protected O PR B, R

Eastern Towhee

Pipilo erythrophthalmus CO Protected O CO B, P

Eastern Wood-Pewee Contopus virens PR Protected E B, P

European Starling Sturnus vulgaris CO Unprotected O PR B, P

Field Sparrow Spizella pusilla CO Protected O CO B, P

Fish Crow Corvus ossifragus PR Game Species O PO M, P

Golden crowned kinglet Regulus satrapa Protected O WI, P

Gray Catbird Dumetella carolinensis CO Protected O CO B, P

Great blue heron Ardea herodias Protected O V, WA

Great Crested Flycatcher

Myiarchus crinitus PR Protected E B, P

Great horned owl Bubo virginianus Protected E V, R

Green heron Butorides virescens Protected E M, WA

Hairy Woodpecker Picoides villosus CO Protected O B, P




and Behavior1

NYS Legal Status

Onsite Findings2

Onsite Breeding

Bird Survey1

Habitat Use3/ Avian

Type4

Herring Gull Larus argentatus Protected O Fo V, WA

Hermit Thrush Catharus guttatus PO Protected E B, P

Horned Lark Eremophila alpestris

Special Concern Fo V, P

House Finch Carpodacus mexicanus PR Protected O PO B, P

House Sparrow Passer domesticus CO Unprotected O PR B, P

House Wren Toglodytes aedon CO Protected O PO B, P

Indigo Bunting Passerina cyanea PR Protected O PR B, P

Killdeer Charadrius vociferus CO Protected O Fo CO B, WA

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos PR Game Species O Fo PO B, WA

Merlin Falco columbarius Protected E M, R

Mourning Dove Zenaida macroura CO Protected O Fo PR B, P

Northern Bobwhite

Colinus virginianus PR Game Species E B, GB

Northern Cardinal Cardinalis cardinalis CO Protected O PR B, P

Northern Flicker Colaptes auratus PR Protected O PO B, P

Northern harrier Colaptes auratus Threatened E V, R

Northern Mockingbird

Mimus polyglottos CO Protected O PR B, P

Orchard Oriole Icterus spurius PR Protected O PR B, P

Ovenbird Seiurus aurocapilla PR Protected E B, P

Palm warbler Dendroica palmarum Protected E M, P

Pine siskin Carduelis pinus Protected E M, P

Pine Warbler Dendroica pinus CO Protected O PR B, P




and Behavior1

NYS Legal Status

Onsite Findings2

Onsite Breeding

Bird Survey1

Habitat Use3/ Avian

Type4

Prairie Warbler Dendroica discolor CO Protected O PR B, P

Purple finch Carpodacus purpureus Protected O M, P

Red-bellied woodpecker

Melanerpes carolinus PR Protected E B, P

Red-breasted nuthatch Sitta canadensis Protected O WI, P

Red-eyed vireo Vireo olivaceus PR Protected E B, P

Red-tailed Hawk Buteo jamaicensis PR Protected O Fo PO V, R

Red-winged blackbird

Agelaius phoeniceus CO Protected O PR B, P

Ring-billed gull Larus delawarensis Protected Fo V, WA

Ring-necked Pheasant

Phasianus colchicus Game Species O PR B, GB

Rock Dove Columba livia CO Unprotected O PR B, P

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus PR Protected E B, P

Ruby-crowned kinglet

Phasianus colchicus Protected E M, P

Savannah sparrow

Passerculus sandwichensis Protected E V, P

Scarlet Tanager Piranaga olivacea PO Protected E B, P

Sharp-shinned Hawk Accipter striatus

Special Concern O WI, R

Song Sparrow Melospiza melodia CO Protected O PR B, P

Spotted Sandpiper Acitisi macularia Protected O PO B, WA

Swamp sparrow Melospiza georgiana Protected E V, P

Tree Swallow Tachycineta bicolor CO Protected O B, P

Tufted Titmouse Baeolophus bicolor CO Protected O B, P

White-breasted nuthatch

Sitta carolinensis CO Protected E B, P




and Behavior1

NYS Legal Status

Onsite Findings2

Onsite Breeding

Bird Survey1

Habitat Use3/ Avian

Type4

White-eyed vireo Vireo griseus PO Protected E M, P

White throated sparrow

Zonotrichia albicollis Protected O WI, P

Willow flycatcher Empidonax traillii PR Protected E M, P

Wood thrush Hylocichla mustelina PR Protected O PO B, P

Yellow Warbler Dendroica petechia PR Protected O PR B, P

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Coccyzus americanus PR Protected E B, P

Yellow-rumped warbler

Dendroica coronata Protected E WI, P

Notes: 1. Breeding bird behavior codes: PO - Possible Breeding, PR - Probable Breeding, and CO - Confirmed Breeding. 2. Onsite Findings: O - Observed, Fo - Flyover, C - Call, sound, T - Track, Nest, and E - Expected. 3. Habitat Use: B - Breeder, WI - Winter Resident, V - Vagrant, M - Migrant 4. Avian Type: P - Passerine, GB - Game Bird, WA - Waterbird, R - Raptor

References: http://www.dec.state.ny.us/apps/bba/results/, NYS Breeding Bird Atlas, Blocks 6351B & 6451A 2000-2005 Interim Data Kricher, J.C. & G. Morrison, 1988. The Peterson Field Guide Series, A Field Guide to Eastern Forests North America, Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston, MA Levine, Emanuel (Edtr.) 1998. Bull's Birds of New York State, Cornell University Press, Ithaca, NY Springer--Rushia, L. and P.G. Stewart , 1996. A Field Guide to Long Island's Woodlands, Museum of LI Natural Sciences, SUNY at Stony Brook, NY.

Seasonal Variation in Avifauna

Overall, species diversity was found to be highest during the migratory periods of early Spring and Fall. During this time many wood warblers [(i.e. black-and-white warbler (Mniotitla varia), black-throated green warbler (Dendroica virens) and yellow warbler (Dendroica petechia)] and sparrows [(i.e field sparrow (Spizella pusilla) and dark-eyed junco (Junco hyemalis)] were evident in the PPOF of the Intermodal Yard and in the SSH, SS and SOF areas near the recharge basin.

During the Summer (a period when many birds are sedentary), the study area was dominated by several resident breeding species. The PPOF and PPSOB areas near the receiving tracks are dominated by prairie warbler, eastern towhee (Pipilo erythrophthalmus) and pine warbler (Dendroica pinus). These species were also found along the edges of the PRP, URP and receiving tracks. This was likely due to the fact that large areas of PPOF and PPSOB were adjacent to the east. Edge habitats of the SSH, SS, SOF areas and mixed habitat areas in the Intermodal Yard were dominated species ubiquitous to Long Island such as the blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata), black-capped chickadee (Poecile atricapillus), gray catbird (Dumetella


carolinensis) and European starling. Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus) was characteristically found near the unpaved paths and the SOF/UVL area.

The most abundant species during the Winter (November – March) were the: American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), black-capped chickadee, blue jay, field sparrow, northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos) and mourning dove (Zenaida macroura). In general, these species concentrated in the SSH, SS, SOF and other mixed habitat areas of the Intermodal Yard. While raptors were not found to be prevalent, a red-tail hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) and an American kestrel (Falco sparverius) were observed utilizing the central meadow of SOF and SS near G Road year-round. Also a sharp-shinned hawk (Accipter striatus) was observed within the study area in August and November in the southern PPOF hunting down one of the URPs. An eastern screech-owl (Otus asio) was also observed in the Winter and may utilize the PP as breeding grounds.

3.4.2 Breeding Species

To further categorize the avian population of the study area, the observed and expected species were divided into four general categories: 1) Breeding, 2) Winter resident, 3) Migratory, and 4) Vagrant. Many species can be included in more than one group because their migratory pathways and winter or summer ranges overlap. For the purpose of this report, avian species are listed in the group that best represents their primary dependence on the habitats within the study area. For example, if a species was observed exhibiting breeding behavior within the study area or is known to be a breeder in the vicinity, it is discussed exclusively in the following “Breeding Bird” section, even though it may also make use of the study area at other times of the year (e.g., winter resident). All other birds are discussed in the “winter resident”, “migratory”, and “vagrant” groups.

Breeding Avifauna

The available habitats in the study area are used by breeding birds to provide adequate food and cover, as well as suitable areas for courtship, nest building, egg laying, rearing and fledging young. Breeding bird species utilize the study area either year-round or spring/summer. The NYSDEC’s Breeding Bird Atlas (BBA) and interim data (2005a, 2006) was checked to determine breeding birds considered likely in the study area. The BBA database lists bird species that are possible, probable or confirmed breeders within an approximate 9-mile square block. Two blocks cover the majority of the study area, 6351B and 6451A (approximately 11,520 acres), while a third block, 6351D, covers a very small portion. Since the breeding blocks cover a much larger area than the study area and the two former blocks encompass almost all of the study area, it was determined that blocks 6351B and 6451A best represent the study area.

The study area was surveyed for breeding birds during four field visits (May 10, May 15, June 6, and June 8, 2004). Evidence of breeding includes such indicators as nests, fledglings and mating calls. A “confirmed breeding” bird is a bird that is observed exhibiting any one of the following behaviors: a distraction display, female with egg in oviduct, recently fledged young, adult entering or leaving a nest, adult carrying a fecal sac, adult carrying food for young, or a bird sitting on a nest. Certain evidence is also used to identify confirmed breeders, including the

Documents

APPENDIX H: ECOLOGICAL STUDIES TECHNICAL REPORT · office for further identification utilizing additional references and a dissection microscope. 2.2.2 Wetlands Surveys The study