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SECTION 4. Environmental Inventory and Analysis
A. Geology, Soils and Topography
1. Geology and Topography
Brewster’s landforms are a product of glacial ice, ocean influence, wind, and erosion. Brewster
and the Cape were first formed 17,000 to 21,000 years ago by glacial action near the end of the
Wisconsin stage of the Pleistocene epoch. As ice withdrew from the area of Martha's Vineyard
and Nantucket, it came to rest where the Cape is presently located, depositing several hundred feet
of unconsolidated material ranging in particle size from clay to boulders. Figure 4-1a shows
Brewster’s geologic features.
Most of Brewster is comprised of a glacial deposit designated as the Harwich Outwash Plain.
Outwash plains are deposited by meltwater streams flowing off the front of a receding glacier. The
flowing streams tend to sort sediment deposition by particle size. Coarser grained particles are
deposited in faster flowing environs closer to the melting ice front while finer grained particles are
deposited in slower flowing environs further away. Large blocks of ice left by the retreating glacier
settled and were surrounded by sediments deposited in the outwash streams. Those buried ice
blocks finished melting long after (potentially thousands of years in some cases) the outwash
deposits ceased active formation, resulting in numerous steep-sided kettle-holes as the surrounding
sediments collapsed into the voids left by the melting ice block. Where those kettle-holes are deep
enough to intersect the water table, kettle-hole ponds were formed.
In contrast to the relatively flat outwash plain areas, the higher land (up to 141 feet above mean
sea level) in the north western part of town (north of the Mill Ponds and along Stony Brook) is
characterized by less well sorted sediments of varying particle sizes, including many boulders.
The Mass GIS mapping shown on Figure 4-1 does not differentiate between the varied topography
of the Stony Brook area and the more consistent deposits of the Harwich Outwash Plain; they are
both simply classified as Sand and Gravel deposits. However, more detailed geologic mapping
conducted by the USGS has depicted this area, originally, as part of the Sandwich Moraine (Oldale,
1969) or, more recently, as ice contact deposits (LeBlanc et al, 1986). End moraines are deposited
at the terminus of an advancing ice front, both by thrusting and bulldozing of material up in front
of the ice, and by direct deposit of material entrained in the ice as the ice melts away. Ice contact
deposits also originate near the edge of an ice sheet as the ice differentially melts dropping its
varied sediment load around stagnant blocks of resistant ice surviving for a period after the larger
ice sheet has receded away. While moraine and ice contact deposits are of different origin, they
are both characterized by relatively steep and varied topography with a wide range of particle sizes
and abundant boulders. These characteristics make for interesting and varied open space uses, in
contrast to the flatter and more consistent outwash plain areas.
Along the immediate northern (Cape Cod Bay) shore of Brewster are located fine-grained deposits
of glacio-lacustrine (wind-blown) origin. After the ice-contact deposits and the outwash deposits
were laid down, the ice front had receded to a position well north of the Cape and melt water from
that continually receding ice was temporarily trapped by the glacial deposits of the Cape to form
a glacial lake in roughly the current position of Cape Cod Bay. The low energy environment of
the lake allowed finer silt and clay sized particles to settle out, creating the lacustrine deposits
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currently exposed along Brewster’s northern shoreline. Wind driven dune deposits and marshlands
comprise the most-recent, post-glacial sediment deposits in town.
The geologic history of Brewster was once thought to be rather simple, but is today seen as a
complex set of interactions which are not yet fully understood. For purposes of open space
planning it is sufficient to understand that most of Brewster is composed of sandy glacial deposits,
with limited areas of more varied topography and pockets of wetlands, bogs, and clay. This glacial
past explains its topography. Ultimately, it also explains Brewster's soils, vegetation, wildlife,
visual beauty and basic character.
2. Soils
Soil types for the Town of Brewster have been mapped and described by the federal Natural
Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in the Soil Survey of Barnstable County. Maps and
interpretative data indicating the limitations of individual soils for different land uses such as on-
site sewage disposal, homesites, and woodlands, are available for review through the NRCS or
through the Conservation Commission office in Brewster Town Hall. Figure 4-1b depicts
Brewster’s soils.
Hydrologic Soil Group and Surface Runoff
Hydrologic soil groups are based on estimates of runoff potential. Soils are assigned to one of four
groups according to the rate of water infiltration when the soils are not protected by vegetation,
are thoroughly wet, and receive precipitation from long-duration storms. The estimates are used in
land use planning that involves engineering considerations.
The Four Hydrologic Soil Groups are:
Group A. Soils having a high infiltration rate (low runoff potential) when thoroughly wet. These
consist mainly of deep, well drained to excessively drained sands or gravelly sands. These soils
have a high rate of water transmission.
Group B. Soils having a moderate infiltration rate when thoroughly wet. These consist chiefly of
moderately deep or deep, moderately well drained or well drained soils that have moderately fine
texture to moderately coarse texture. These soils have a moderate rate of water transmission.
Group C. Soils having a slow infiltration rate when thoroughly wet. These consist chiefly of soils
having a layer that impedes the downward movement of water or soils of moderately fine texture
or fine texture. These soils have a slow rate of water transmission.
Group D. Soils having a very slow infiltration rate (high runoff potential) when thoroughly wet.
These consist chiefly of clays that have a high shrink-swell potential, soils that have a high water
table, soils that have a claypan or clay layer at or near the surface, and soils that are shallow over
nearly impervious material. These soils have a very slow rate of water transmission.
If a soil is assigned to a dual hydrologic group (A/D, B/D, or C/D), the first letter is for drained
areas and the second is for undrained areas. Surface runoff refers to the loss of water from an area
by flow over the land surface. Surface runoff classes are based on slope, climate, and vegetative
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cover. The concept indicates relative runoff for very specific conditions. It is assumed that the
surface of the soil is bare and that the retention of surface water resulting from irregularities in the
ground surface is minimal. The classes are negligible, very low, low, medium, high, and very high.
A single soil association, the Carver (A) soil, comprises more than 75% of the town's soils. The
most important aspect of Brewster's Carver soils is their permeability. The loose coarse lower
layers act as a vast reservoir for underground water replenished by precipitation, and town well
tests indicate large amounts of drinkable water in both the eastern and western sectors of Brewster.
However, the permeability that allows between 15 and 20 inches of water per year to recharge the
groundwater system also allows septage, landfill leachate, contaminated road runoff and other
pollutants, such as oil or gas from leaking underground storage tanks, to quickly flow through the
soil into the drinking water supply. Wet soils, low permeability soils, wetlands and surface waters
make up the other 25% of the soils of the town, which means that 25% of Brewster is unsuitable
for development just on the basis of soil type. However, while these soils and water areas preclude
or should preclude development, they provide drinking water through groundwater recharge,
natural habitat of major importance, and widely used recreational opportunities.
A second major soil type, the Plymouth-Barnstable-Nantucket-Barnstable (A-A-B-A), is also
excessively drained and well-drained, sandy, loamy soil. Like Carver, these soils can present
severe problems with septic fields, since they allow the effluent to percolate into the groundwater
without being sufficiently filtered.
A third type, the Plymouth-East Chop-Carver-Boxford Soil Complex (A-A-A-C/D) again, is
excessively well-drained, however these sandy soils have the addition of clay. There are apt to be
pockets of perched water where these soils form. These soil areas have previously been considered
unsuitable for building and for septic systems. However, with the decreasing availability of
developable parcels, many previously unwanted lots, are now getting a closer look.
Another soil type in Brewster can be classified as wetland/bog, Freetown Sanded Muck (A/D),
comprising approximately 7% of the town. These soils can be used successfully for cranberry
bogs, and there are several important wildlife habitat areas associated with these soils.
The Ipswich-Pawcatuck-Matunuck Soil Complex (A/D) is the major soil type found in boggy areas
near the shore. The soils are poorly drained peats formed in marine and sandy deposits. There is
also a small amount of Agawam soils (approximately 3% of town) which, while important for
certain wildlife and plant species, are again unsuitable for development because these soils are too
wet or impermeable for proper septic tank functioning.
Almost all of this “wet” land is unsuitable for residential, commercial or industrial use because of
wetness and instability. Yet, as building pressure increases, it is more difficult to keep people from
building in these totally inappropriate, marginal areas. In some instances "bog view" and "marsh
view" are now being sold as special attributes of parcels that might best be left undeveloped. Any
natural feature is perceived by a growing number of people as a commodity to be sold to the highest
bidder, disassociated from its natural functions or its true long-term value to the community.
According to NRCS criteria, 496 acres (about 3%) of the town's land area are classified as prime
agricultural soils. Prime agricultural soils are mainly concentrated in the north / northwestern
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portion of Brewster. Although there are a few active agricultural lands located on prime
agricultural soils, most existing active agricultural areas are not (APCC, 2011).
3. Landscape Character
Quiet beauty, rural charm and quaint New England are some of the phrases used to characterize
Brewster. They embody the key qualities described by residents in a 1991 Local Comprehensive
Plan Committee Survey. Brewster’s greatest assets are its rural character; beaches, the Bay, Route
6A, open space and ponds (Figure 4-2).
One of the many charms of Brewster is its access to its great beaches on Cape Cod Bay. These
are especially inviting to parents with small children, because of the extraordinary features exposed
at low tide. Brewster has enormous sand flats that extend at least a mile into the Bay. People of
all ages enjoy “walking the flats”. This terrain is also ideal for shellfishing.
Off-season, Route 6A is a quiet, pleasant drive between Dennis and Orleans. It is lined with the
homes of sea captains and other historic structures. From west to east there are many features to
visit along the way. The spectacular scenic vista of Cape Cod Bay at the Drummer Boy Park is
also the site of an historic Windmill, the Harris Black House and a Blacksmith Shop. Traveling
east, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History is then on the north side of the street. A short drive
south off 6A, taking Stony Brook Road to Run Hill Road, connects one with The Punkhorn
Parklands, over 800 acres of ponds, woodlands and bogs.
Continuing east on 6A one passes numerous sea captains homes which have been brought back to
their original beauty and charm, at least two early Town Hall buildings, and 11 chances to take a
road leading to the north to access a town beach. On the eastern edge of town, Ocean Edge mansion
is seen set far back off the north side of the road. Formerly La Salette Seminary, these buildings
now comprise the Ocean Edge Conference Center. Further on, Nickerson State Park is seen on
both sides of the road, with beaches and marshes on the Bay side and forests, trails and ponds on
the south side of 6A.
There is no town center per se, unless it is the Old General Store, situated approximately where
Route 124 meets Route 6A. Early morning coffee, the newspaper and conversation concerning
the latest happenings are all available to residents and visitors alike.
B. Water Resources
1. Watersheds
The Town of Brewster is within the Cape Cod Watershed. This watershed is a coastal river
drainage area lacking the characteristic, large mainstream rivers and associated tributary systems
common to the other watersheds of Massachusetts. Cape Cod coastal embayment systems are fed
by smaller freshwater and estuarine recharge areas comprising tidal creek and marsh systems. The
Town of Brewster encompasses six embayment watersheds, which it shares with neighboring
jurisdictions. These include the Cape Cod Bay, Herring River, Namskaket Creek, Pleasant Bay,
Quivett Creek, and Stony Brook watersheds. Brewster also contains a very small portion of the
Bass River watershed. Figure 4-3 shows these watershed boundaries as well as Brewster’s major
water resources. The Pleasant Bay, Herring, River and Bass River Watersheds have recently been
assessed a part of the Massachusetts Estuaries Project for the restoration and protection of estuarine
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resources. The Pleasant Bay Watershed has been included in Brewster’s Water Resources bylaw,
while the Herring River and Bass River Watersheds have not.
Although Brewster encompasses just a small portion of shoreline on Pleasant Bay, a portion of the
watershed draining to the bay is within the town. Excessive nitrogen originating primarily from
on-site wastewater disposal systems within the Bay’s watershed has led to a degradation of
Pleasant Bay’s water quality. Some of the impacts of excessive nitrogen loading include:
• Loss of eelgrass beds, which are critical habitats for macroinvertebrates and fish;
• Undesirable increases in macro algae, which are much less beneficial than eelgrass;
• Periodic extreme decreases in dissolved oxygen concentrations that threaten aquatic life;
• Reductions in the diversity of benthic animal populations; and
• Periodic algae blooms.
In addition, as a result of these environmental impacts, commercial and recreational uses of the
Pleasant Bay System coastal waters could be greatly reduced or cease altogether (EEA, 2007).
With proper management of nitrogen inputs these trends can be reversed. The Town of Brewster
is one of four towns (including Chatham, Harwich and Orleans) within the Pleasant Bay
Watershed. These towns have formed the Pleasant Bay Alliance, a municipal organization that
coordinates the resource management plan for the watershed, including the designated Pleasant
Bay Area of Critical Environmental Concern. The Alliance’s projects, programs and studies
promote healthy natural resources and safe public access throughout Pleasant Bay.`
PLEASANT BAY ALLIANCE
The Pleasant Bay Alliance is an organization of the Towns of Brewster, Chatham, Orleans, and
Harwich. Formed through an inter-municipal agreement, the Alliance is charged with
implementing the Pleasant Bay Resource Management Plan. The Plan encompasses the Pleasant
Bay Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) and Pleasant Bay watershed. The Alliance
develops and distributes public policy recommendations, technical studies and public
information/educational materials, all available on the Alliance website, www.pleasantbay.org.
Brewster’s Natural Resources Director and Town Planner are appointed by the Select Board to
represent the Town on the Alliance’s Steering Committee.
Watershed Nutrient Management
Each Alliance member town has developed a plan to address its share of responsibility for reducing
nitrogen in Pleasant Bay. The Alliance has compiled the effect of the four town plans in the
Pleasant Bay Targeted Watershed Management Plan (2018). The watershed plan includes a mix
of traditional nitrogen removal actions (e.g., sewering), and non-traditional methods (e.g., shellfish
aquaculture.) Chatham and Harwich are proposing to install sewers and share use of Chatham’s
treatment plant. Orleans is pursuing a combination of sewering around Meetinghouse Pond,
exploring the nitrogen removal capacity of shellfish aquaculture in Lonnie’s Pond, and testing the
efficacy of permeable reactive barriers. Brewster is maximizing fertilizer reductions at its golf
course, and exploring the potential for nitrogen removing septic systems. The regional approach
allows the towns to work together to pursue efficiencies and cost savings through coordinated
actions.
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In 2018, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) issued the Pleasant
Bay Watershed Permit, the first permit of its kind to reduce nitrogen loads in a watershed shared
by multiple towns. The permit gives each Alliance town a mix of authorizations and incentives
needed to implement the nitrogen removal strategies outlined in the watershed plan. The twenty-
year permit is managed in five-year increments, with nitrogen reduction targets for each town to
meet along the way. The Alliance develops annual progress reports required by MassDEP and the
Cape Cod Commission to demonstrate that nitrogen reduction requirements are on track. The
process is flexible and allows towns to adapt if targeted strategies end up performing better or not
as well as predicted.
To help implement the work called for under the watershed permit, the Alliance obtained
$250,000 from the Southeast New England Estuaries Project (SNEP), a grant program sponsored
by US EPA and Restore America’s Estuaries. Under the grant the Alliance and member towns are:
1) exploring the potential for expanded use of nitrogen removing septic systems; 2) monitoring the
effectiveness of shellfish aquaculture for nitrogen removal; 3) developing a nitrogen trading
demonstration project that will allow towns to use financial transactions to compensate for nitrogen
removal; and 4) updating the ecological model that is used to track and assess nitrogen
concentrations and removal requirements in the Pleasant Bay system.
Working with the towns to achieve the nitrogen removal targets outlined in the Targeted
Watershed Management Plan and watershed permit will continue to be a high priority for the
Alliance.
Monitoring
Working with volunteers and technical support from the four member towns, the Alliance
coordinates the Pleasant Bay Water Quality Monitoring program. Trained volunteers collected
samples at bay-wide sites achieving a 90% collection rate. The program is operated in accordance
with a Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) approved by MassDEP and adheres to protocols
for volunteer training, sample custody, and laboratory analysis. The precise number of monitoring
stations has been adjusted over the past two decades based on refinement of data needs. Currently,
there are twenty-five stations actively monitored.
Data collected by the water quality monitoring program were incorporated in modeling of Pleasant
Bay undertaken by the Massachusetts Estuaries Project (MEP). The MEP analysis detailed in the
2006 Technical Report documented signs of nutrient-related stress throughout the system and
found that thirteen of seventeen subembayments exhibited some level of impaired or degraded
habitat health due to overloading of nitrogen. The report also documented excessively low
dissolved oxygen levels in some subembayments such as Muddy Creek, Paw Wah Pond, Lonnie’s
Pond, Areys’s Pond, Quanset Pond and Meetinghouse Pond, where surrounding land is densely
developed and tidal flushing is restricted. The MEP report provided the basis for establishing total
nitrogen Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) for nineteen subembayments in Pleasant Bay.
The TMDLs provide the nutrient targets for local and regional nutrient management planning.
In coordination with Dr. Graham Giese and the Center for Coastal Studies of Provincetown, the
Alliance also supports regular tide gauge monitoring throughout the Pleasant Bay system.
Coastal Resilience
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The Alliance coordinates inter-municipal efforts related to coastal vulnerability and resiliency in
Pleasant Bay. The Alliance’s work in the area of coastal vulnerability and resiliency builds on
extensive previous technical studies and monitoring undertaken by the Alliance over more than a
decade, including: 137 Years of Shoreline Change in Pleasant Bay 1868-2005 (Borrelli, 2005); A
Geomorphological Analysis of Nauset Beach/Pleasant Bay/Chatham Harbor For the Purpose of
Estimating Future Configurations and Conditions (Giese et al, 2010); Analysis of Tide Data from
Meetinghouse Pond, Chatham fish Pier and Boston: With Application to Management (Giese,
2012); Sea Level Rise: Assessment of Impacts on Nauset Barrier Beach and Pleasant Bay (CCS,
2017); Progress Report on Collection and Analysis of Tidal Data from Boston Harbor,
Meetinghouse Pond, Chatham Fish Pier and Outermost Harbor: June 2016 – June, 2017 (Giese
and Legere, 2017); These studies have led to the development of policy guidance submitted to the
member towns, including permitting guidelines for docks, piers and walkways, and the recently
released Guidelines for Managing Erosion in Pleasant Bay (Pleasant Bay Alliance, 2018).
The Alliance obtained a $70,050 FY2020 coastal resilience grant from Massachusetts Coastal
Zone Management. The grant funded a project to help Salt Marsh resources in Pleasant Bay keep
up with sea level rise. The project includes an assessment of Salt Marsh vulnerability and living
shoreline suitability in Pleasant Bay. The Alliance will use this assessment to develop and permit
living shoreline pilot projects on public properties to manage erosion while sustaining natural
coastal processes. (Carol Ridley, Director PBA)
2. Surface Waters: Freshwater Lakes and Ponds
Freshwater ponds are a major defining feature of Brewster. Over 10% (or over 2,000 acres) of the
town's surface area is covered by fresh water ponds providing Brewster with the largest pond area
on the Cape. The Town of Brewster has approximately 80 ponds; of these ponds, 53 of them are
greater than one acre and 28 of them are greater than 10 acres. The 743 acre Long Pond shared
with Harwich is the Cape's largest, while Cliff Pond with a depth of 84 feet is the deepest. In
recent years, local concerns about the water quality of Brewster’s ponds have often become
focused by algal blooms, fish kills, and concerns related to the impacts from population growth.
Nine major freshwater ponds are interconnected in the Stony Brook watershed, which ultimately
discharges into Cape Cod Bay at the mouth of Paines Creek. These ponds include Elbow, Slough,
Pine, Walkers, Smith, Canoe, Upper Mill, Lower Mill and Schoolhouse Ponds. This hydraulic
system is the core of the over 800-acre Punkhorn Parklands.
Brewster's ponds generally lie within the sand and gravel of the Harwich Outwash plain.
Groundwater flow is enhanced by the highly permeable sand and gravel deposits and plays a
dominant role in all of the major pond systems. The influence of surface water runoff to the ponds
is minimal due to the ponds’ general lack of tributary streams and the soil composition of their
watersheds. Wave action has winnowed the sand from much of the pond shorelines, leaving an
armor of coarse gravel and cobbles. Very little fine-grained sediment is present except where
organic matter has concentrated in the deeper areas of the ponds.
About 14 ponds are regularly stocked with fish by the Massachusetts Division of Fish and Wildlife
and at least 11 ponds support public swimming. Ten ponds are sufficiently deep to have the
potential to support cold-water fish (e.g. Long, Seymour, Sheep, and Slough Ponds). Ponds in the
Stony Brook and Herring River watersheds provide essential habitat for anadromous fish like
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alewife and blueback herring, which migrate from salt to fresh water to spawn, and catadromous
fish like eels that spawn in salt water and live in fresh water.
Several complex man-made hydrologic networks consisting of many miles of ditches and
intermittent streams course through Brewster and are maintained by the Barnstable County
Mosquito Control Commission. The Consodine Ditch system was developed to remove surface
water from low-lying wetlands and acts as a flood relief system, which discharges water at
Breakwater Beach. A second extensive ditch network flows through the Stony Brook watershed
and discharges through Freemans Pond and Paines Creek.
Some of Brewster’s ponds are coastal plain ponds, which are freshwater bodies that occupy
glacially formed depressions in the sandy soil found on Cape Cod. The water in the ponds
fluctuates seasonally in response to a direct link with the area's water table. This seasonal
fluctuation allows a diverse pond shore plant community to flourish. The dry years keep aquatic
plants from establishing a permanent colony and the wet years keep the upland plants from taking
over. Coastal plain pond shore communities often take root in zones along the shoreline depending
on the plant's ability to tolerate wet conditions. Waters tend to be nutrient poor and acidic. It is
not uncommon to find some of the more common marsh emergents such as rushes and sedges in
the mix of plants. But it must be remembered that along with more common varieties of plants
there are globally rare plants such as the Plymouth Gentian (Sabatia kennedyana).
a) Recreational Access to Ponds
Brewster's ponds are enjoyed for a wide number of recreational uses, such as fishing, boating,
sunbathing, swimming and ice-skating. Due to its large size (743 acres) Long Pond is a popular ice-
fishing location in the winter. MA fishing licenses are required on all ponds. All of Brewster's
ponds have a three- (3) horsepower propulsion limit except Long, Cliff, and Flax Ponds where there
are no power limitations.
The majority of Brewster's ponds lack official public landings; however, many have informal access.
Formal Public Freshwater Beaches/Landings are located as follows:
1. Long Pond – Boat ramp and beach
2. Slough Pond
3. Upper Mill Pond – Accessible viewing platform and boat ramp
4. Sheep Pond – Accessible viewing platform, boat ramp and beach
5. Schoolhouse Pond – Accessible fishing dock and car-top boat launch, winter ice skating
The most active of the public landings is the town beach and boat launching facility at Long Pond and
the State launching ramp and town beach at Fisherman's Landing on Sheep Pond. Cliff Pond and
Flax Pond in Nickerson State Park have swimming beaches with lifeguards as does Long Pond.
Seymour Pond has a public beach shared with Harwich and there is a small public swimming access
to Pine Pond. There is substantial town frontage on Bakers Pond, however access is difficult and
there is no beach on the Brewster side, only in Orleans.
Town public boat ramps exist at Walkers, Long, Upper Mill and Sheep Ponds. Brewster's sailing
program established in 1997 is located at Upper Mill Landing. Car top boat launching facilities were
also constructed at Slough and Schoolhouse Ponds. Handicapped access viewing platforms are found
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at Sheep, Upper Mill and Schoolhouse Ponds. The Schoolhouse Pond platform doubles as a fishing
dock.
b) Pond Water Quality
Many of the ponds in Brewster today have compromised water quality due to excessive loadings
of phosphorous, the nutrient of concern that controls the level of excess plant and algae growth, a
process known as eutrophication. Eutrophication can deplete oxygen levels, cause fish kills and
noxious odors, and reduce water column visibility. At the end of the algal growing season, the
algae die off and settle on the pond bottom causing sediment buildup. This can impact organisms
living on the pond bottom. Common sources of phosphorus include phosphate-containing cleaners
or detergents, human and animal waste, vehicle exhaust deposits, and fertilizers from lawns, golf
courses, and agriculture (HW, 2013).
Brewster has been conducting environmental monitoring of its ponds under the auspices of the
Department of Natural Resources for over 20 years (since 1987). Brewster’s ponds had been
monitored regularly by the Cape Cod Pond and Lake Stewardship (PALS) program. The PALS
program had monitored ponds and lakes across Cape Cod, including 29 ponds in Brewster.
Brewster now runs their own PALS/pond monitoring program.
According to the PALS data, many of Brewster’s ponds are not meeting water quality standards
for dissolved oxygen, chlorophyll a and nutrients (phosphorous and nitrogen) (SMAST, CCC,
2009). These data are consistent with observed conditions, which include regular algal blooms at
many of Brewster’s ponds. Table 4-1 summarizes the ponds in Brewster that were listed on the
State’s 2012 Impaired Waters (303(d)) List.
Brewster is using an aquatic weed harvester to remove aquatic plants in an effort to lessen the
phosphorus impairment in Walkers Pond. Starting last year, the effort has expanded to Elbow Pond
with assistance from the Brewster Ponds Coalition and the Friends of Elbow Pond.
In fall of 2019 an alum treatment was complete on Upper Mill Pond as a part of the treatment strategy
for the Mill Ponds complex (Walkers, Upper, Lower Mill Ponds).
Table 4-1. Brewster’s Impaired Freshwater Ponds
Pond Pollutant(s) of Concern
Lower Mill Pond Chlorophyll-a; Excess algal growth; Phosphorous (total); Secchi
disk transparency; Turbidity
Long Pond Oxygen, dissolved
Sheep Pond Mercury in fish tissue
Walkers Pond Excess algal growth; Phosphorous (total); Secchi disk
transparency; Turbidity
Baker’s Pond Mercury in fish tissue
The Cape Cod Commission has mapped the watersheds of 18 of Brewster’s Ponds. Development
regulations targeted toward development within these watersheds could help control sources of
phosphorous, including the fertilizer and pesticide use, stormwater runoff, and septic systems.
Through its Integrated Water Resource Management Plan, the town is looking into implementing
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local regulations, such as provisions that require more stringent septic system setbacks to ponds, in
order to better manage phosphorous sources. Managing phosphorous loading to Brewster’s ponds
will enhance the recreational capacity of these resources by allowing them to be used for boating,
swimming, fishing and other activities.
3. Marine Surface Waters
Marine resources in Brewster exist primarily on the north shore, along Cape Cod Bay. There is a
small section of Brewster bordering Pleasant Bay (approximately 40 feet of frontage) to the south
but there is no landing there. There are no large estuaries in Brewster through there are some
substantial creeks including Paine's, Quivett and Namskaket. At low tide, Brewster’s beaches
become a part of expansive tidal flats that extend ¾ of a mile out into Cape Cod Bay. These
extensive flats provide for many hours of exploration fun.
a) Marine Surface Waters Access
Ten saltwater beaches are located along Cape Cod Bay. Each is accessible from a street connecting
to Main Street (Route 6A). These provide miles of swimming, sunbathing, beach strolling, fishing,
and boating access. Beach sticker revenues contributed $333,665 to the Brewster economy in
fiscal year 2019.
• Brewster’s saltwater beaches/landings (west to east) include: Wings Island Beach - Behind
the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, off John Wing Trail;
• Paine’s Creek Beach;
• Mant’s Landing Beach;
• Saint’s Landing Beach;
• Breakwater Landing;
• Breakwater Beach;
• Point of Rocks Landing Beach;
• Ellis Landing Beach;
• Spruce Hill Beach – Located behind the Historical Society Museum;
• Linnell Landing Beach; and
• Crosby Landing Beach -Connects with Nickerson State Park land/ Beach/Namskaket
Creek & Saltmarsh.
b) Marine Surface Water Quality
Water quality at eight of Brewster’s most popular bathing beaches (Breakwater, Crosby Landing,
Ellis Landing, Linnell Landing, Mant’s, Paines Creek, Point of Rocks, and Saints Landing) is
monitored throughout the summer by the Barnstable County Department of Health and the
Environment. These beaches are monitored for enterococci bacteria, which has proven to be the
most useful bacterial indicator for determining the extent of fecal contamination in marine
recreational waters. The beaches generally have excellent water quality.
As highlighted earlier in this Plan, water quality in Pleasant Bay has been degraded from excessive
nitrogen loading within its watershed, a portion of which is in Brewster. As fertilizers account for
16% of the watershed nutrient load in Pleasant Bay, The Pleasant Bay Alliance recently created a
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Fertilizer Management Plan that provides strategies with the potential to reduce overall
controllable nitrogen by up to 7.2%. The town has also developed an Integrated Resource
Management Plan with specific action items to reduce nitrogen loading to Pleasant Bay, such as
regulatory controls on septic systems and stormwater management.
Some of the creeks and rivers in Brewster have also demonstrated poor water quality (Table 4-2).
The town is looking at ways to manage these surface water resources as well.
Table 4-2. Brewster’s Impaired Marine Surface Waters
Water body Pollutants of concern
Pleasant Bay Nitrogen
Quivett Creek Fecal coliform
Namskaket Creek Fecal coliform
Herring River1 Fecal coliform
Bass River1 Estuarine bioassessments, Fecal coliform
1 River not in Brewster, but a portion of the contributing watershed area is within the town
boundary.
4. Aquifer Recharge Areas
In general terms, the groundwater system can be described as the saturated zone of water-bearing
glacial deposits beneath the land surface. The upper surface of this zone is known as the water
table. In cross-section, the groundwater body is shaped like a lens, with the highest elevations of
the water table being found along the groundwater divide, and flowing towards the lower
elevations near the town’s shores and beaches.
The town’s groundwater system, like the whole of Cape Cod, is replenished entirely by
precipitation. The level of the water table fluctuates seasonally due to evaporation, precipitation
and water withdrawals. Brewster’s potable drinking water supply source is its underground sole
source aquifer. The town’s groundwater resources are part of the “Monomoy Lens,” an aquifer
which extends to five towns: Brewster, Orleans, Harwich, Brewster and Dennis. Brewster’s public
water supply wells are located in large undeveloped areas in and around Nickerson State Park and
the Punkhorn Parklands.
Groundwater is the primary source of Brewster’s existing and future drinking water supply. The
Town of Brewster currently has excellent water quality across its public drinking water wells, and
most of its private wells. This is a result of planning for water supply protection through land
acquisition and land use regulation over the last 20 to 30 years. For example, the town has
supported the Monomoy Lens Groundwater Protection Project. Brewster’s Water Quality Review
Committee has also been reviewing development projects regularly over a number of years. The
Town of Brewster owns the land of the Zone Is to all the town’s drinking water wells. A Zone I
is the protective radius required around a public water supply well or wellfield, which is 400 feet
for Brewster’s drinking water wells, as they have approved yields of over 100,000 gallons per day.
A Zone II is the area of an aquifer which contributes water to a well under the most severe pumping
and recharge conditions that can be realistically anticipated (i.e., 180 days of pumping at approved
yield with no recharge from precipitation). Any contamination of groundwater in a Zone II could
impact drinking water quality at the public well drawing water from that area. Land acquisition in
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan DRAFT – SECTION 4 12
June 8, 2020
the Zone II areas to public drinking water wells is a pro-active approach to protecting drinking
water quality. The Zone II areas in Brewster represent approximately 4,360 acres (excluding
surface water ponds), of which 40%1, or 1,740 acres, are protected by conservation. Conservation
lands include a combination of town and state-owned properties, conservation restrictions, and
other conservation mechanisms.
Figure 4-4 shows Brewster’s drinking water wells as well as the town’s and neighboring towns’ Zone
II areas. Brewster’s DCPC is also shown.
5. Flood Hazard Areas
Brewster participates in the Federal Flood Insurance Program, which requires that new shorefront
development meet engineering standards for flood proofing, but does not prohibit development.
Flood velocity zones, or V-zones, are land areas where storm surge or direct wave action occurs.
The velocity zones which cover the entire Brewster coastline are all directly subject to wave and
wind action. Landward of the velocity zones are other flood-prone areas (A-Zones) in which
standing waters can be expected during 100-year storm events. Figure 4-5 shows Brewster’s flood
hazard areas. In 2019 Brewster’s Flood Insurance Premium rates were reduced due to the amount
of Open Space that Brewster has preserved.
Brewster experiences coastal erosion and flooding regularly and in the coming decades, flooding and
erosion will be increasingly exacerbated due to relative sea level rise. This phenomenon, the result
of land submergence and ocean expansion from global climate change, could result in the loss of
shoreline and upland in Brewster between now and 2025 (CZM, n.d.).
These areas will basically coincide with the 100-year floodplain. Sea level rise will also mean an
increase in the severity of storm damage. The town can expect shoreline retreat that will not only
affect private residences, but town-owned properties and facilities such as parking lots and beaches.
The town must consider this issue when examining long-term public investment in shoreline facilities,
such as siting new parking lots.
The Floodplain Zoning District includes all special flood hazard areas designated on the Town of
Brewster Flood Insurance Rate Map as established by the National Flood Insurance Program. The
following uses, which present low flood damage potential and are unlikely to cause obstructions
to flood flows, are encouraged, provided they are permitted in the underlying district and do not
require structures, fill, or the storage of either materials or equipment.
(1) Agricultural uses such as farming, grazing, truck farming, horticulture, etc.
(2) Forestry and nursery uses.
(3) Outdoor recreational uses, including play areas, nature study, boating, fishing and hunting
where otherwise legally permitted.
(4) Conservation of water, plants and wildlife.
(5) Wildlife management areas, foot, bicycle, and/or horse paths and bridges provided such
uses do not affect the natural flow pattern of floodwaters or of any watercourse.
(6) Temporary nonresidential structures used in connection with fishing, hunting, bird
watching, growing, harvesting, storage, or sale of crops raised on the premises.
(7) Buildings and uses lawfully existing prior to the adoption of these provisions.
1 This estimate is based on parcels considered protected by conservation as of October 2012.
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June 8, 2020
The town has identified the following as flood plain use limitations:
(1) Man-made alteration of sand dunes within Zones V1-30 increases potential flood damage
and is prohibited.
(2) All new construction within Zones V1-30 is required to be located landward of the reach
of mean high tide.
(3) All subdivision proposals shall be reviewed to assure that:
(a) Such proposals minimize flood damage;
(b) All public utilities and facilities are located and constructed to minimize or
eliminate flood damage; and
(c) Adequate drainage is provided to reduce exposure to flood hazards.
(4) Existing contour intervals of site and elevations of existing structures must be included
on plan proposals.
6. Wetlands and Vernal Pools
Wetlands cover more than twenty (20) percent of Brewster’s land area (Figure 4-6). Saltwater
wetlands consist of 12,840 acres, which include salt marshes, tidal flats and barrier beaches.
Freshwater wetlands, consisting of 553 acres, include sensitive Atlantic White Cedar, Red Maple
and shrub swamps, bogs, vernal pools and other wetlands. Some of these wetland resource areas
are described in more detail below.
a) Salt Marshes
Salt marshes are tidal areas that are often found behind the protected shores of barrier beaches. There
is a wide variation in salinity levels and the degree and duration of flooding which controls the types
and amounts of vegetation that can be established. Saltmeadow grasses dominate the higher areas of
the marsh. Saltmarsh Cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) and Saltmeadow Cordgrass (Spartina patens)
are the most common perennial, salt tolerant grass species in salt marshes, although other species such
as Black Rush (Juncus gerardi) and Sea Lavender (Limonium nashii) may also be found. Salt
marshes comprise one of the most productive ecosystems on earth, providing the basis for the food
chain in both freshwater and marine environments. They also provide excellent wildlife habitat
including habitat for migrating and overwintering waterfowl and shorebirds and the young of many
species of marine organisms.
b) Barrier Beaches
Barrier beaches are low lying strips of coastal dune and beach that protect coastal salt marsh areas
and adjacent inland areas behind the marshes. They serve as a buffer to storm waves and storm surges.
They are dynamic areas where the beach and dunes are constantly changing, and gradually migrating
landward, as a result of wind and wave action. This landward migration is part of the natural cycle
of barrier beaches, and the process of overwash plays an important role in the dissipation of wave
energy and protection of upland areas behind the barrier beach. As storm waves erode the seaward
side of the barrier beach, overwashed material is carried into the marsh and provides a substrate for
the formation of new dune areas, shifting the barrier beach landward. Barrier beaches provide nesting
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan DRAFT – SECTION 4 14
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habitat for a wide variety of birds including Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus) and Least Terns
(Sterna albifrons).
c) Vernal Pools
The Town of Brewster contains 38 certified vernal pools. A vernal pool is a temporary pool that
forms during spring rains, through the retention of snowmelt or in low lying areas that intercept
seasonally high water tables. The water is usually held in depressions or low areas and will persist
until the heat of summer causes evaporation of the water. Although typically dry during the summer
months, vernal pools may fill up again during late autumn wet spells and may hold water through the
winter. Although vernal pools are usually associated with woodlands, vernal pools have been found
in other low lying areas such as meadows and sandflats. Vernal pools are important wildlife habitat
for a variety of amphibian and invertebrate species, some of which are completely dependent on the
pools for their survival and have a limited ability to find other suitable breeding locations when "their"
vernal pool is lost. The temporary nature of the pools precludes the establishment of fish populations.
Without predation by fish, amphibian’s eggs and larvae are able to mature, making these pools ideal
habitat for certain species of frogs and salamanders, as well as other invertebrate species.
Brewster also has a significant number of vegetated wetlands that were converted to cranberry bog
production during the 1920’s to 50’s. Most of these wetlands have reverted to their natural
vegetative state and now provide important wildlife habitat; flood control and storm damage
prevention, and work to greatly improve water quality. The existing Brewster Wetlands Protection
regulations generally prohibit the conversion of wetland resource areas into active cranberry
operations or other agricultural projects unless specific criteria are met. Any such proposed
agricultural project for a wetland area must “not have any adverse effect upon any of the interests
protected in the By-law.”
The Brewster Wetlands Protection By-law and Regulations are more stringent than the State
Wetlands Protection Act in several distinct areas. For example, the Brewster Wetlands Protection
By-law extends the wetland values protected in the By-law to include: groundwater quality, water
quality in the numerous ponds of the town, erosion and sedimentation control, and aesthetics and
historic values. These values are above and beyond the values listed in the Massachusetts
Wetlands Protection Act Regulations. The town also extends applicability to include land subject
to inundation by groundwater or surface water, which goes beyond the state’s regulations.
C. Vegetation
The Town of Brewster contains a number of diverse vegetative communities which are
ecologically significant, and which help to define the visual character of the town. There is a wide
diversity in the size, successional stage and vulnerability to development of these communities.
These plant communities perform many critical functions. Plant species moderate weather
extremes, help maintain the quality of the soil and air, protect against erosion, and absorb runoff,
therefore protecting groundwater supplies. Vegetation provides useful habitats for wildlife,
including shelter and food, breeding and overwintering habitat. Some wild plants, such as those
producing berries, provide food for humans. Trees, shrubs and groundcover have aesthetic value,
and are a major component of visual quality.
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1. Coastal Plant Communities
American Beach Grass is the dominant species and provides much of the stability for sand dunes
that extend for miles along Brewster’s northern seashore. This vegetative community also
provides habitat for a variety of migratory and year-round birds. In areas where more soil is
present, Rosa rugosa (Beach Rose) and Beach Peas take root as well as thicker coastal shrub
communities including Bayberry, Scrub Oak, Eastern Red Cedar, Low-bush Blueberry, Eastern
Prickly Pear and Beach Plum. These more established vegetative communities also provide
habitat for upland birds.
Erosion and the need for beach renourishment resulting from shoreline development are ongoing
challenges in Brewster. Beach grass and other xerophytes (plants adapted to living in drying
conditions) are of prime importance to the stabilization of dunes and protection of the shoreline.
They are capable of collecting sand, thus building dunes while their strong root systems protect
them from excessive wind erosion.
The town's salt marshes are delicately balanced, productive and protective habitats which are
dependent largely on barrier beaches to protect them from the open ocean. It has become generally
understood that about two thirds of the value of the commercial catch of fish and shellfish landed
on the East Coast of the United States comes from species that live at least part of their life cycles
in marshy estuaries. Salt marshes provide the food and protection necessary for larval and juvenile
marine organisms to reach a degree of maturity. The grasses prevent these tiny animals and their
food supply from being swept out to sea. Salt marshes provide other functions important to coastal
communities:
• They absorb billions of gallons of water brought ashore by high tides and storms, thus
mitigating storm water damage to more landward areas.
• Salt marshes take up and accommodate significant contributions of domestic pollutants
found in coastal runoff. Some of these, such as nitrates and phosphates, can act as fertilizers
in reasonable concentrations and bolster the overall productivity of the marsh. Others, such
as potentially toxic heavy metals and some pesticides, appear to be sequestered to varying
degrees by soils and plants. Less is known about their cycling within the ecosystem. The
salt marshes play a powerful role in maintaining the cleanliness of coastal waters.
2. Freshwater Plant Communities
Freshwater ponds, lakes and streams support a variety of aquatic plant species. These resource
areas include a mix of globally restricted plants and more common species such as rushes, sedges,
Blue-joint (Calamagrostis canadensis), Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum), and Purple Gerardia
(Agalinis purpurea). Other species include: New England Boneset (E. leucolepsis var. novae-
angliae), and Maryland Meadow Beauty, both rare in Massachusetts; Thread-leafed Sundew
(Drosera filiformis), common on these ponds, but uncommon elsewhere; and Spatulate-leaved
Sundew (D. intermedia). Plymouth Gentian (Sabatia kennedyana) occurs mixed with Golden-pert
(Gratiola aurea), Goldenrod (Solidago tenuifolia) and Pink Tickseed (Coreopsis rosea). Slender
Arrowhead (Sagittaria teres) and Bladderwort (Utricularia fibrosa or U. biflora) are also common
to these environs.
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Brewster also has nice examples of Atlantic White Cedar and Red Maple swamps. According to
the Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP), cedar swamps
have declined considerably in Massachusetts due to conversion to cranberry bogs or reservoirs,
and filling for agriculture or development. Only a few remain on outer Cape Cod. Brewster's
wooded swamps include:
• Atlantic White Cedar Swamp between Elbow and Walkers Pond
• Atlantic White Cedar Swamp southeast of Vespers Pond
• Red Maple Swamp off Black Duck Cartway/Krawitz Conservation Area
Some predominant plant species include cranberry, Swamp Azalea, blueberry, Red Maple, water
lilies and Black Tupelo.
3. Forest Land - Upland Plant Communities
Brewster has relatively large areas of unfragmented second growth pine-oak forest compared to
other Cape towns. As the title implies, second growth pine/oak forest has sprung up on formerly
cultivated lands that once were forested, prior to clearing by the Cape’s original settlers. The pines
and oaks are often 30 to 50 years old and are found on most undeveloped sites on the Cape. The
vegetative community will continue to change in these areas as pines mature and give way to oaks
and other hardwoods. These areas are considered to be the Cape’s prime developable land and
also provide important upland wildlife and plant habitat. Brewster is fortunate to have at least two
such significantly sized (by Cape standards) unfragmented second growth forests designated as
protected open space:
• The Punkhorn Parklands Conservation Area, located in the southwestern corner of town,
contains over 800 acres of predominantly Pitch Pine forest, slowly being overtaken by
hardwoods, mostly Black oak with some White Oak. There are a number of small pure
stands of Pine Barrens, home to a threatened species, the Barrens Buck Moth. Important as
a forest rebuilder, the Pitch Pine is slowly replenishing the soil. Other species include
American Beech, White Pine and Red Maple. The Punkhorn’s miles of trails provide for
long leisurely walks and possible glimpses of “forest interior” species, such as warblers,
vireos, cuckoos, tanagers and whip-poor-wills, that prefer to dwell in blocks of unbroken
woodland.
• Nickerson State Park, located at the eastern end of town has over 1,888 acres of woodlands
and ponds. One of the most popular parks in the state, it has salt and fresh-water beaches,
miles of trails for walking, hiking and horse-back riding, 420 campsites, and boating and
swimming access.
There are also many smaller, healthy stands of woodlands scattered throughout town including
four hardwood tree woodland communities remaining in Brewster outside of Nickerson State Park.
These are remnants of the forest community present prior to European settlement.
• Post Oak/Hickory Woodland Community on Wing Island
• American Beech Forest Woodland Community west of Paine’s Creek Road
• American Beech Forest Woodland Community east of Run Hill Road. SE of the Town
Transfer Station
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• Climax community (the final stage of ecological succession, which includes mixed forest
vegetation) on Greenland Pond (PH)
In addition to the above, Red, White, Scarlet and Black oak are all common in this area. White
Pine and hardwoods such as Beech, Pignut, and Bitternut Hickory, Aspen, Sassafras and American
Holly are also part of the natural cover type, although they were more abundant prior to the
Colonial Period. Red Maple, Black Tupelo, willows, and Atlantic White Cedar grow in poorly
drained pockets in the topography. There also exist stands of Gray Birch, dogwood, locust and
hickory.
Abundant understory plants include huckleberry, Low Bush and High Bush Blueberry, Sweet
Pepperbush, Viburnums, Bayberry, Poison Ivy, Greenbrier, Bearberry, Striped Wintergreen and
many species of wildflowers. A transition from forest to shrub thickets takes place in areas near
the Bay shore. Beach Plum, Staghorn Sumac, Salt Spray Rose, Chokeberry, Poison Ivy and
Bayberry are a part of the community located in the swales behind the beach and dune systems.
The beach and dunes are only habitable for hardy organisms that have adapted to an environment
of wind borne salt, shifting dunes and salt water flooding. The plants found in this environment
include Beach Heather, Beach Pea, Seaside Goldenrod, Dusty Miller, Sea Rocket, Sea Lavender,
Beach Grass and various Spartina species.
Upland areas, including former fields, contain a variety of grasses, emergent woody species such
as Wild Cherry and Eastern Red Cedar, pioneer species such as Poison Ivy, fruits such as Black
Raspberry and Wild Strawberry, thistle, Queen Ann's Lace, milkweed, chicory, and numerous
other species. These provide important habitat and food for wildlife. Some of Brewster’s upland
communities are described in more detail below.
4. Public Shade Trees
Natural vegetation areas, both large and small, are important to the preservation of Brewster’s rural
character. Keeping natural vegetation intact as much as possible as the town develops, helps to
maintain this rural image. Unfortunately, many residents and visitors alike assume that all green
areas they see and enjoy are protected, which is not true. The Open Space Committee has worked
hard to protect as many parcels as possible over the years. The Planning Board also requires the
retention of vegetated buffers along parking areas and has many requirements for the
retention/permanent protection of open space in the development of subdivisions.
Aside from the aesthetic value trees and other vegetation provide, they are necessary components
of the regional ecosystem. They provide valuable wildlife habitat, temperature moderation, air
purification, and removal of pollutants from precipitation and have considerable impact on energy
consumption in residences. “Heat Islands” or domes of warmer air over urban/suburban areas are
caused by the loss of trees and shrubs and the absorption of more heat by pavement buildings and
other sources. Heat islands can affect local, regional and global climate, as well as air quality.
Public shade trees are found in all of Brewster’s parks, small squares like the “Egg”, the grounds
of all Town-owned buildings, Town-owned and private cemeteries alike, and along public and
private roadways.
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Management of the Town’s shade trees is the responsibility of the tree warden, who is the
Superintendent of the Department of Public Works (DPW). Trees on public streets are maintained
by the DPW. No money is specifically allocated for the planting of new trees. The DPW does get
about $5,000 every third or fourth year to deal with removal. Generally, any monies spent for care
comes out of the DPW General Expense Budget, such as a recently purchased box of tree fertilizer
spikes to put around the trees they care for. The spikes are put in the ground on off hours,
voluntarily, to avoid the expense of having to pay someone to do it and to stay out of the hot sun
during the day. The rest of the "shade" trees in town see limited care, if any. When the DPW has
a bucket truck in town for removals, they try to get some deadwood pruning out of the way, but
hazardous removals come first.
The Town has applied for and received several grants, one of those being $5,000 from a local
family foundation to replace some of the many trees lost during a December 9, 2005 storm. The
DPW planted approximately 60 trees throughout town - in cemeteries, schools, and a few along
town roadways. The cemetery trees and the ones along Old Long Pond Road are doing fine,
especially the cemetery.
The DPW is looking to provide additional plantings at the Cape Cod Rail Trail parking area on
Route 124. Some landscaping has already been installed at this location by a local family and the
DPW has expanded these plantings. The department completed the installation of split rail fencing
along the parking area and has added trees appropriate for the area. Three Hedge Maples from the
perimeter of the Brewster Landfill were be relocated to this location prior to the installation of
photovoltaic cells on the capped landfill.
In addition to the Rail Trail Parking area project, the DPW also replanted the traffic island at the
corner of AP Newcomb Road and Stony Brook Road in the western section of Brewster. The
DPW completed a large water quality project in this area and tree plantings were also added to one
of the islands. The island on the westerly side of AP Newcomb Rd has veteran’s stone and
memorial plaque and two large, but declining, Green Ash trees, one of which was struck by
lightning several years ago. The second ash tree has been trimmed by the local power company
over the years and is in decline. New tree plantings for this island include the relocation of three
Gingko trees, also from the perimeter of the Brewster Landfill. The trees are scheduled to be
relocated later this fall. Once these trees become established, the ash trees will be removed. The
second island at this intersection is the location of the recently installed stormwater sand filter and
tree planting on this island will be avoided.
The DPW has also expanded an area near the office where crab apple trees had been planted. Care
for these trees has been expanded using deep root fertilization practices and deadwood pruning.
In addition to the Crab Apple trees, this area has been expanded using plant materials removed
from other town buildings and from excavation activities throughout the Town. There are about a
dozen crab apple trees, some forsythia and a number of other shrubs and plantings as well as
perennial plantings salvaged from the compost pile. A water line was installed to the area, as was
an irrigation system to improve plant quality. These plant materials can then be used in other areas
of town as needed. The Barnstable County Cooperative Extension Service also maintains a tree
farm and they sell to municipalities at significant savings over commercial gardens. Staffing and
adequate funding are the limitations to this effort.
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The designation of certain roads in town as Scenic Roads under state law provides protection for
trees by requiring a public hearing and review prior to the removal of trees for roadway
construction or other reasons.
The Town has designated the following roads as Local Scenic Roadways, under the provisions of
MGL Chapter 67 of the Acts of 1973, to preserve landscaping and stone walls. The Historic District
Committee has authority to approve or disapprove any cutting of trees along Route 6A. The Planning
Board under the Scenic Road Act and Shade Tree Acts, has preservation authority and permitting
power for the following "Scenic Roads." When these roads are within the Old Kings Highway
Historic District, such a review is done jointly by the Planning Board and the Old Kings Highway
Historic District Committee.
• Stony Brook Road.
• Satucket Road.
• Lower Road.
• Paines Creek Road.
• Brier Lane.
• Slough Road.
• Tubman Road.
• Robbins Hill Road.
• Red Top Road, from Stony Brook Road to Satucket Road.
• Great Fields Road.
• Breakwater Road.
• Point of Rocks Road.
• Old North Road.
• Cathedral Road.
• Foster Road.
• Ellis Landing Road.
• Linnell Landing Road.
• Crosby Lane.
• Millstone Road.
• Run Hill Road, from Stony Brook Road as far as Millpond Drive.
The Conservation Commission also protects all vegetation including shade trees within 100 feet
of any wetland. They have taken many enforcement actions following incidents of illegal clearing
and pruning in wetland resource areas. The Commission has taken the strongest action allowed
under state regulations to enact penalties for illegal clearing.
5. Rare Plant Communities
Rare plant habitats and species have been documented and mapped over the years, most notably
by the NHESP. The Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC) prepared a Cape-wide inventory
of notable habitats in their Critical Habitats Atlas and the Compact of Cape Cod Conservation
Trusts prepared a Cape-wide map of significant wildlife habitats in their Cape Cod Wildlife
Habitat Conservation Project. Figure 4-7 shows the mapped endangered species habitat and
BioMap II Core Habitat and Supporting Natural Communities in Brewster.
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NHESP maintains a list of all Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) – listed species
observed and documented in each Massachusetts municipality. These species are listed because
they are threatened (T), Endangered (E) or Special Concern (SC):
• Endangered species are in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of
their range or are in danger of extirpation from Massachusetts.
• Threatened species are likely to become Endangered in Massachusetts in the foreseeable
future throughout all or a significant portion of their range.
• Special Concern species have suffered a decline that could threaten the species if allowed
to continue unchecked or occur in such small numbers or with such restricted distribution
or specialized habitat requirements that they could easily become Threatened in
Massachusetts.
Table 4-3. Brewster’s MESA-listed Plant Species in Brewster as of 6-2020
Scientific Name Common Name
MESA
Status
Most Recent
Observation
Carex mitchelliana Mitchell's Sedge T 2012
Dichanthelium dichotomum ssp.
mattamuskeetense
Mattamuskeet Panic-
grass E 1918
Dichanthelium ovale ssp. pseudopubescens Commons's Panic-grass SC 2006
Gamochaeta purpurea Purple Cudweed E 1924
Isoetes acadiensis Acadian Quillwort E 2009
Lachnanthes caroliana Redroot SC 2016
Liatris scariosa var. novae-angliae
New England Blazing
Star SC 2017
Lipocarpha micrantha Dwarf Bulrush T 2012
Mertensia maritima Oysterleaf E 2001
Ophioglossum pusillum Adder's-tongue Fern T 1992
Opuntia humifusa Prickly Pear E 1989
Persicaria puritanorum Pondshore Knotweed SC 2012
Rhexia mariana
Maryland Meadow
Beauty E 2017
Rhynchospora scirpoides
Long-beaked Bald-
sedge SC 2012
Rumex pallidus Seabeach Dock T 1994
Sabatia kennedyana Plymouth Gentian SC 2017
Sagittaria teres Terete Arrowhead SC 2016
Spartina cynosuroides Salt Reedgrass T 2018
Utricularia resupinata Resupinate Bladderwort T 2002
NHESP, with funding made available by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and
Environmental Affairs (EEA), developed a BioMap to identify the areas most in need of protection
in order to protect the native biodiversity of the Commonwealth. The BioMap focuses primarily
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on state-listed rare species and exemplary natural communities but also includes the full breadth
of the State's biological diversity. The goal of the BioMap project, completed in 2001, was to
identify and delineate the most important areas for the long-term viability of terrestrial, wetland,
and estuarine elements of biodiversity in Massachusetts. Similarly, the goal of the NHESP Living
Waters project, completed in 2003, was to identify and delineate the rivers, streams, lakes, and
ponds that are important for freshwater biodiversity in the Commonwealth. These two
conservation plans are based on documented observations of rare species, natural communities,
and exemplary habitats.
Both BioMap and Living Waters delineate “Core Habitats” that identify the most critical sites for
biodiversity conservation across the state. Core Habitats represent habitat for the state’s most
viable rare plant and animal populations and include exemplary natural communities and aquatic
habitats. Core Habitats represent a wide diversity of rare species and natural communities, and
these areas are also thought to contain virtually all of the other described species in Massachusetts.
Statewide, BioMap Core Habitats encompass 1,380,000 acres of uplands and wetlands, and Living
Waters identifies 429 Core Habitats in rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds.
Biomap core habitat areas cover approximately 50% of the Town of Brewster, in two main areas.
One large Core Habitat encompasses Nickerson State Park and its surrounds extending southeast
to the town boundary and northeast to include Namskaket Creek. The second encompasses the
Punkhorn Parklands area, the Mill Ponds, the herring run, and the entire Paine's Creek area.
Biomap Supporting Natural Landscapes cover the transition zones between the Core Habitat areas
and the developed areas, and are concentrated around ponds (Figure 4-4).
D. Fisheries and Wildlife
Wildlife is an important recreational, commercial and educational resource, and represents a rich,
natural heritage which helps to define the basic character of the town. It adds interest and variety
to the landscape, plays an important role in controlling pest infestation, and in general is a
barometer of the ecological health of the community. The spread of roads and subdivisions has
reduced and greatly fragmented the habitat of many native wildlife species which cannot easily
survive. Many of these species have already been replaced with others that have adapted to
suburban environments; others remain threatened by development.
As discussed in the sections above, Brewster has within its boundaries a large number of diverse
habitats supporting healthy wildlife populations. Individual wildlife will be best conserved if their
habitats are protected intact with enough space to provide the food webs needed to sustain each
species.
Certain wildlife habitat areas in Brewster are of particular importance and deserve greater
protection through conservation land purchases, habitat management and regulation to assure that
critical habitat is not broken up into suboptimal size areas, or contaminated by development or
chemicals. Species listed as State endangered or threatened should be given the same priority for
preservation as federally listed species, and all planning decisions for the use of Brewster land
should reflect wildlife considerations. A general species inventory follows.
1. Inventory
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a) Tidelands and Coastal Waters
Brewster has the following native species occurring in its tidelands and coastal waters:
Marine mammals
• Right, Sperm, Humpback, Minke, Pilot and Fin Back whales, Common and White-Sided
Dolphin, Harbor Porpoise, Harbor and Gray Seals.
Reptiles
• Loggerhead, Leatherback, Green and Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtles, Diamond Back Terrapin.
Fish
• Alewife: there are two Alewife (Herring) runs in Brewster at Paine's Creek and Long Pond.
• Little Skate, Alewife, Atlantic Salmon, American Eel, Shiners and Minnows, Atlantic Cod,
Smooth Flounder, Seahorse, Pipefish, Silversides, Bluefish, Striped Bass, Scup, Sculpin,
Tautog, Northern Puffer, Porcupine Fish and Toadfish which at least seasonally occupy the
coastal waters of Brewster along with occasional Great White Sharks. Cephalopods are
also commonly seen in the form of Common and Boreal Squids.
• The tidal creeks and marshes are home to Mummichugs and Three-spined Sticklebacks.
Mollusks/Shellfish
• Nut Clams, Blood and Transverse Ark, Ribbed/Blue/Horse Mussels, Eastern Oyster, Bay,
Iceland and Deep Sea Scallops, Jingle Shell, Gem Clam, Quahog, Surf, Common Razor
and Soft-Shell(Steamer) Clams, False Anglewing and Piddock Clam.
• The Common Eastern Chiton.
Common Gastropods (snails)
• Limpets, Smooth and Common Periwinkle, Common Slipper Shell, Moon Snail and their
sand-collar egg-masses, Oyster Drill, Dogwinkle, Waved Whelk, Dove Shell, Knobbed
and. Channeled Whelk, Common Mud and Salt Marsh Snail, Bubble Shell.
• A number of species of colorful shell-less Gastropods known as Nudibranchs or Sea Slugs.
Crustaceans
• Fiddler Crabs, Common Rock Barnacles, Blue, Lady, Green, Jonah, Rock, Spider, Hermit
and Mole crabs, American Lobster, various shrimp, myriad Common Rock Barnacles and
swarms of Sand Fleas/Beach Hoppers.
Arachnids
• Horseshoe Crab
Echinoderms
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• Northern Sand Dollar, New England Sea Cucumber, Purple and Green Sea Urchins,
Northern Sea Star and Common Starfish
Annelids
• Clam Worm, Parchment worms, and others.
Many of the above listed species contribute their shells and molts to the vast array of intriguing
items that wash ashore twice a day and add to the beach wrack line.
Coastal Birds
• At least seasonally, seabirds such as Northern Fulmar, Sooty Shearwater, Wilson's and
Leach's Storm-Petrel, Northern Gannet, and, Great and Double-crested Cormorants,
Common Loons, Horned, Pied-billed and Red-necked Grebes, Laughing, Ring-billed,
Herring and Black-backed Gulls, Common, Least and Roseate Terns, Razorbills, Common
Murre, Dovekie, Atlantic Puffin.
• Ducks and geese such as Mute Swan, Canada Goose, Brant, Mallard, Black Duck, Green-
winged and Blue-winged Teal, American Widgeon, Northern Pintail, Ruddy Duck, Wood
Duck, Canvasback, Greater and Lesser Scaup, Common Eider, Black, White-winged and
Surf Scoter, Oldsquaw, Common Goldeneye, Bufflehead, Common and Red-breasted
Merganser and the occasional Brown Pelican.
• The tidal flats and marshes are patrolled by birds such as King, Clapper and Virginia Rail,
Sora, Common Moorhen, American Coot, American Oystercatcher, American Avocet,
Piping, Wilson's, Black-bellied and Semipalmated Plovers, Killdeer, Hudsonian and
Marbled Godwits, Whimbrel, Curlew, Willet, Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs, Red Knot,
Common and Spotted Sandpiper, Short-billed Dowitcher, Common Snipe, Ruddy
Turnstone, Dunlin, Sanderling, Upland Sandpiper, Least and American Bittern, Black-
crowned Night Heron, Yellow-crowned Night Heron, Green-backed Heron, Cattle, Snowy
and Great Egrets, Great Blue Heron, Belted Kingfisher with occasional Glossy Ibis and
Wood Stork.
• Brewster is also host to larger birds such as Turkey Vultures and a number of Raptors and
Accipiters: Bald Eagles, Northern Harrier, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Cooper's Hawk, Northern
Goshawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Rough-legged
Hawk and Osprey. There are also smaller hunters, American Kestrel, Merlin, with the
occasional Peregrine Falcon.
b) Inland Species
Mammals
• White-Tailed Deer, Eastern Coyote, Red Fox, Raccoon, Eastern Cottontail, White-lined
Skunk, Grey, Red and Flying Squirrels, Virginia Opossum, Woodchuck, Fisher (newly
arrived), Otter, Eastern Chipmunk, White-footed Mice and Meadow Voles, Moles, Brown
Rats, and Bats.
Reptiles
• Snakes: Snakes in Brewster include the Hognosed, Northern Rat, Red Rat, Milk, Green,
garter, Grass, Northern Water, and Black Racer amongst others.
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• Turtles: Turtles include the Box, Red-eared Slider, Eastern Painted, Bog, Spotted, Mud,
Snapping and Diamondback Terrapin
Amphibians
• Frogs include the Bull, Green, Pickerel, Tree, Gray Tree, Wood endangered –Vernal Pool
species, and Spring Peepers.
• Salamanders include the Spotted (endangered) Vernal Pool species, and Red-backed
Salamanders.
Insects
• Representatives of most all insect families, including a number of rare, endangered and
threatened, recently discovered Dragonflies and Damselflies.
Birds
• Inland Bird Species include ground species as Ruffed Grouse, Woodcock, Northern
Bobwhite, Ring-necked Pheasant, (the recently re-established) Wild Turkey, Mourning
Doves, Rock Dove, Yellow and Black-billed Cuckoos, Whip-poor-will, Chuck-will's
Widow, Common Nighthawk, and Chimney Swift.
• Nighttime hunters include Common Barn Owl, Short-eared Owl, Long-eared Owl, Great
Horned Owl, Barred Owl, Eastern Screech Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl, and winter beach
visits from Snowy Owls.
• A number of woodpeckers inhabit our woodlands; Northern Flicker, Red-bellied
Woodpecker, Redheaded Woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Downy and Hairy
Woodpeckers and the Pileated Woodpecker.
• Passerines (perching birds) include Eastern Kingbird, Greater Crested Flycatcher, Olive-
sided Flycatcher, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Eastern Phoebe, Least and Acadian Flycatchers,
Horned Lark; Tree Swallow, Purple Martin, Bank, Northern Rough-winged, Cliff and Barn
Swallows; Blue Jay, American Crow, Fish Crow, Common Raven, Tufted Titmouse,
Black-capped Chickadee, Carolina Chickadee, Brown Creeper, White and Red-breasted
Nuthatches; House and Carolina Wrens, Marsh Wren; Golden and Ruby-crowned Kinglet,
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Eastern Bluebird, Woodthrush, Veery, Swainson's Thrush, Hermit
Thrush, American Robin, Northern Wheatear, Northern Shrike, Gray Catbird, Northern
Mockingbird, Brown Thrasher, Water Pipit, Cedar Waxwings; European Starling, White-
eyed Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Solitary Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Warbling Vireo;
• Warblers include the Prothonotary, Blue-winged, Tennessee, Nashville, Northern Parula,
Black-and-white, Black-throated Blue, Cerulean, Blackburnian, Chestnut-sided, Cape
May, Magnolia, Yellow-rumped, Black-throated Green, Yellow-throated, Prairie, Bay-
breasted, Pine, Palm, Yellow, Kentucky, Canada, Hooded, and Worm-eating Warblers,
Ovenbird, Louisiana Waterthrush, Northern Waterthrush, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow-
breasted Chat and American Redstart.
• Other Cape residents and visitors are the Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Northern Cardinal,
Snow Bunting, Indigo Bunting and Rufous-sided Towhee. Sparrows include the
Grasshopper, Sharp-tailed, Seaside, Vesper, Savannah, Song, American Tree, Field,
Chipping, White-throated, White-crowned, Fox, Swamp, as well as Dark-eyed Junco,
Lapland Longspur, Snow bunting, Dickcissel.
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• In the Blackbird family the Cape has Bobolink, Eastern Meadowlark, Red-winged
Blackbird, Rusty Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Boat-tailed
Grackle, Orchard Oriole, Northern Oriole, Scarlet Tanager.
• Cape Cod Finches include the House/English Sparrow, Pine Siskin, American Goldfinch,
Purple Finch, House Finch, Evening Grosbeak.
• The smallest avian species in our area is the ruby-throated Hummingbird.
The fact that Cape Cod and therefore Brewster is located in the path of many migratory flyways
allows birdwatchers to site any number of unusual and spectacular species in route to wintering or
breeding grounds and spectacular sightings of unusual species blown in from Europe and other
areas by storm winds.
2. Vernal Pools
Vernal pools provide habitat for many wildlife species. Certain species are specifically adapted
for life in a vernal pool and cannot complete their life cycle without a vernal pool. For example
many of these species, such as the Yellow-Spotted Salamander (Ambystoma maculatum), require
vernal pools for reproduction. The loss of vernal pools and associated upland habitat areas would
result in the extirpation of vernal pool-dependent species. All four amphibian species listed as rare
in Massachusetts use vernal pools. In addition, two state-listed turtle species and three state-listed
crustaceans use vernal pools. There are 38 certified vernal pools in Brewster (Figure 4-6).
3. Corridors for Wildlife Migration
Riparian areas (i.e., rivers, streams and adjacent lands) are important habitats for wildlife, and
function as corridors for wildlife migration. This includes many of what are ordinarily thought of
as "upland" species as well as wetland species. For example, many upland animals need access to
rivers and streams for hunting and drinking, particularly in the winter when other water sources
may be frozen over. The junction between rivers, streams and adjacent riparian land is especially
high in ecological diversity and biological productivity because gravity is constantly moving
energy and matter along with the current and because so many animals spend their lives both in
water and on land. The high value of riparian areas as wildlife habitat is also due to the abundance
of water combined with the convergence of many species along the edges and ecological transition
zones between aquatic/wetland, aquatic/upland, wetland/upland and river channel/backwaters
habitats (Cohen, 1997).
4. Rare Species
As described in the preceding sections, Brewster provides a variety of habitats for wildlife species:
some of these species are unique to the area, others have their largest, most stable populations here,
and yet others are still relatively common. Brewster is also home to 15 MESA-listed wildlife
species (four birds, seven insects, one fish, one mammal and two reptiles (Table 4-4).
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Table 4-4. Brewster’s MESA-Listed Wildlife Species as of 6-2020
Taxonomic Group Scientific Name Common Name
MESA
Status
Federal
Status
Most Recent
Observation
Bird
Charadrius
melodus Piping Plover T T 2018
Bird Parula americana Northern Parula T 2006
Bird Sterna dougallii Roseate Tern E E 2008
Bird Sterna hirundo Common Tern SC 2008
Butterfly/Moth
Abagrotis
nefascia
Coastal Heathland
Cutworm SC 1981
Butterfly/Moth Apamea inebriata Drunk Apamea Moth SC 1981
Butterfly/Moth
Papaipema
sulphurata
Water-willow Borer
Moth T 2015
Dragonfly/Damselfly
Enallagma
daeckii Attenuated Bluet T 2010
Dragonfly/Damselfly Enallagma pictum Scarlet Bluet T 2012
Dragonfly/Damselfly
Enallagma
recurvatum Pine Barrens Bluet T 2005
Fish
Notropis
bifrenatus Bridle Shiner SC 1961
Mammal
Eubalaena
glacialis Northern Right Whale E E 2010
Reptile
Malaclemys
terrapin
Diamond-backed
Terrapin T 2002
Reptile
Terrapene
carolina Eastern Box Turtle SC 2019
E. Scenic Resources and Unique Environments
1. Scenic Heritage Landscapes
Scenic heritage landscapes are those special places and spaces that help define the character of a
community and reflect its past. They are the result of human interaction with the natural resources
of an area, which influence the use and development of land. These geographic areas contain both
natural and cultural resources. Heritage landscapes in Brewster come in many forms, including:
• Cemeteries;
• Commons/Village Centers;
• Mill sites;
• Parks;
• Buildings/Estates;
• Farms/Cranberry bogs;
• Camps; and
• Scenic roads.
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The history of the Town of Brewster can be traced in its tree-lined cemeteries. Visiting these quiet
sites enriches one's sense of the past, while introducing one to some of the most beautiful spots in
town. There are six (6) large cemeteries and a number of smaller, older family plots in town.
• The Brewster Old Burying Ground - Most of the 596 graves in this old cemetery date from
1750 to 1850. (Breakwater Road behind Unitarian Church)
• Dillingham Cemetery - An excellent example of an 18th century New England family
burying ground. (Stony Brook Road)
• Red Top Cemetery - An old graveyard which is still in use. (Red Top & Stony Brook
Roads)
• Sears Cemetery - The oldest legible date is 1726. Reading these tombstones provides a
graphic record of life of a very historic local family. (off Airline Road near Route 6A)
• Brewster Cemetery - Interesting 19th century monuments (off Lower Road)
• Pine Grove Cemetery - Quiet 19th century yard, still in use, contains several stones with
remarkable epitaphs." (Foster Road & Old Cemetery Road - off Route 6A)
• Family cemeteries in Nickerson State Park
The Brewster Town Commons or Village Center is generally considered to be the confluence of
Routes 137, 124 and 6A, which is where the first church gathered in 1700. This is also the site of
the Old General Store, which has served as a meeting place for Brewster residents for many years.
Stony Brook Grist Mill and its associated Mill Ponds are also important to the town’s scenic and
historic heritage. In 1940, the Town of Brewster acquired the property encompassing the Herring
Run, Grist Mill, and the remains of Factory Village on Stony Brook Road. The Millsites
Committee oversees the preservation of Brewster's historic Grist Mill, and the town-owned land
and scenic footpaths along Stony Brook.
Brewster’s Drummer Boy Park is important for its scenic, historic and recreational opportunities
and is an important asset to the town. The 17-acre park located along historic Route 6A with
scenic views of Cape Cod Bay includes well-tended lawns, attractive tree-plantings, a children’s
playground (updated in 2019), and the historic restored 18th century Higgins Farm Windmill and
historic home and blacksmith shop on the adjacent Historical Society and Brewster Conservation
Trust properties.
Historic homes and estates are also a significant part of Brewster’s scenic heritage. Over 99 sea
captains made their home in Brewster in the 18th and 19th centuries. Many of their homes are still
standing and have been renovated or restored to their original beauty. Several of the historic homes
are available to visit, as they form a major part of the Brewster economy, as charming country inns
and quaint bed and breakfasts. A notable example is the Crosby Mansion. Built in 1888, the
mansion, named Tawasentha by its original owners, Albert and Matilda Crosby, is located on the
west side of Crosby Lane off of Route 6A in East Brewster. This imposing colonial revival house
now belongs to the Commonwealth of MA and is a part of Nickerson State Park. It is also one of
the featured cultural attractions on the Brewster segment of the Cape Cod Pathways trail network.
Brewster is also marked by scenic agricultural lands, including farmsteads, pastures, fields,
woodlots, and cranberry bogs. In addition to their scenic properties, these agricultural operations
also provide local healthy food for residents. There are also farms that provide recreational
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opportunities, such as horseback riding.
A scenic and recreational asset, Nickerson State Park, offers family outings, camping, hiking,
swimming, and boating. There are over 400 campsites for which the Park will accept reservations,
and there is also a stocked year-round pond for freshwater fishing.
Historic Route 6A began as a Native American trail and evolved into a principal east-west cart
path for early Cape farmers and other settlers. In the late 17th century it became an extension of
the Plymouth Colony’s “King’s Highway.” The historic route extends across Cape Cod, and is
considered Brewster’s Main Street as it traverses the town. As one leaves East Dennis, heading
into Brewster, it is difficult not to be fully distracted by the occasional vista that opens to the
expanse of Cape Cod Bay and the marshlands that lie between it and the roadway. The fluid flight
of gulls, the rise and ebb of the tides, the distant ships and ocean breezes all address the senses of
the traveler.
The railroad right-of-way that is now the Cape Cod Rail Trail is also an important scenic heritage
landscape, dating from the Early Industrial Period (1830-1870).
The town also hosts a number of annual festivals, which treat residents as well as visitors to a vast
array of experiences and build the community’s character.
• The annual Brewster-In-Bloom festival exemplifies community spirit at its best. There is
an arts and craft show, antique & flea market, golf tournament, road race, art shows, historic
inn tours, demonstrations and open houses at businesses all over town, with a lively parade
right down Main Street to cap the week’s activities. Proceeds from the Bloom have been
used to beautify the town with yearly plantings of daffodil bulbs and to provide
scholarships to deserving Brewster students (COC/BTU, 1999). Bloom proceeds are
directed toward scholarships for Brewster students moving on to education beyond high
school and to add to the scholarship reserve fund. In 2013, $2,200 was distributed to
students and another $1,200 was deposited in the reserve fund.
• Brewster Conservation Day – Starting in 2012, the town and Brewster Conservation Trust
sponsored a Day to celebrate the community’s natural resources and organizations
dedicated to saving them. With over 40 unique presentations, one can learn from interactive
exhibits on aquaculture, natural plant gardening, and water resources. The daylong event
celebrating Brewster’s environmental wonders draws over 800 visitors.
• Society of Cape Cod Craftsmen, now in its 55th year, holds its Annual Craft Fair at the
Drummer Boy Park.
• The Brewster Historical Society, which has been in existence for almost 50 years, holds its
Annual Antiques Fair at the Drummer Boy Park.
• The Annual Brew Run, sponsored by the Wood Shed for the last 29 years, attracts over
1,400 runners each year. Proceeds are donated to the Brewster Fire Department Emergency
Squad and to the Brewster Police Department.
• Brewster Historical Society Farmer’s Market, held on their property, which is adjacent to
the Drummer Boy Park.
2. Cultural and Historic Areas
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Cultural resources are an integral part of Cape Cod's past, and Brewster’s cultural and historic
areas characterize the town. Brewster maintains historic Native American burial grounds as well
as a historic “Old Indian Well” adjacent to Quivett Creek. Historic homes are an important part
of Brewster’s heritage as well. In addition, some of the town’s municipal buildings are historic as
well.
The Old Town Hall (Brewster’s second one), located at 1240 Main Street, next door to the Fire
Department, was designed by Boston architect, Walter T. Winslow in popular Queen Anne style.
It was completed in 1881 and restored in 1973. It was the focus of both town government and
Brewster’s civic life from 1881 to 1985: town meetings were held here, taxes paid, marriages,
births and deaths recorded. Town Hall served as the social center of Brewster: suppers were
served, theatrical productions enjoyed, clubs and societies organized. It was also a large sewing
center and the founding location of the Brewster Museum of Natural History. Today this lovely
historic building is home to the Brewster Council on Aging, serving as a center for senior activities,
lunch programs, bridge games, and summer art shows.
In addition, the Captain Mayo home, a restored 1868 Victorian building on Main Street, is now
the Brewster Ladies' Library. Recently expanded in 1997, the Library has new large meeting
rooms, access to the Internet and is a member of the Cape-wide CLAMS Library System, making
it a most valuable local and regional resource.
Archaeological Resources
Brewster has been well documented in the archaeological record. A total of seven preContact sites are
recorded within Nickerson State Park and many additional sites are adjacent to and near the park and
multiple surveys have been completed nearby. Nickerson state park has a high archaeological sensitivity.
Native Americans undoubtedly traversed these same locations going to and from the water’s edge from
their campsites, which would have been located nearby on high, level, well-drained ground; however
evidence of that type of use would not survive the archaeological record.
• Nickerson State Park (NSP) - Nickerson and its environs are well documented in the
archaeological record. A total of seven preContact sites are recorded within the park, and
four systematic archaeological surveys have been conducted (MHC Reports #138, 1597,
2552, 2898). There are also former house sites that are now represented by cellar holes,
foundations, bottle dumps;
• Nickerson State Park - A pre-Contact site lies on high ground that separates Flax and Cliff
ponds, the Southern edge of Flax Pond;
• Wing Island;
• Old Indian Well –adjacent to Quivett Creek; and
• Only one other Middle Archaic site (besides NSP) has been identified in Brewster, near
Upper and Lower Mill ponds. The inland setting of this site is of particular interest, because
most pre-Contact sites on the Cape and Islands are coastal. Site between Upper and Lower
Mill Ponds.
In 1993, Brewster produced an Archaeological Resources Map, with revision/updates in 1996
and 1998, by the Cape Cod Commission. This map shows areas of:
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PRIMARY SENSITIVITY (1,000-Foot Protective Buffer Zone): This generally includes all areas
within 1,000 of marine ecosystems, particularly those areas within close proximity to fresh water.
These areas have a high probability of containing prehistoric archaeological sites. The four most
important areas for management consideration based upon available data are: Namskaket Creek
and marsh, the Cape Cod Bay shoreline, Stony Brook Valley, and the major ponds of the Herring
River Drainage System.
SECONDARY SENSITIVITY (500-Foot Protective Buffer Zone): This generally includes all
areas within 500 feet of a water body greater than 3 acres in size that are not a part of the Herring
River or Stony Brook drainage systems. These areas are likely to contain prehistoric archaeological
sites, particularly is they intersect areas of primary sensitivity.
TERTIARY SENSITIVITY : This generally include all areas within a protective zone that skirts
wetlands of any size and water bodies less than three acres in size. Developments that may disrupt
the natural character or inhibit public safety are prohibited in this protective zone. The delineation
of the protection zone is defined in the Town of Brewster’s Wetlands Conservancy District Bylaw
and are subject to the regulations that constitute the Wetlands Protection act, MGL.c.131, --40, as
amended. Archaeological sites may exist within these environments. (Fig. 4-x)
Figure 4-2 shows Brewster’s unique features, which include some of its most scenic and historic
resource areas.
3. Unique Environments
Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACECs) are places in Massachusetts that receive special
recognition because of the quality, uniqueness and significance of their natural and cultural
resources. These areas are identified and nominated at the community level and are reviewed and
designated by the state’s Secretary of Environmental Affairs. ACEC designation creates a
framework for local and regional stewardship of critical resources and ecosystems.
There are two designated ACECs within the Town of Brewster: the Pleasant Bay ACEC and the
Inner Cape Cod Bay ACEC (Figure 4-8).
The 9,240-acre Pleasant Bay ACEC covers four towns (Orleans, Chatham, Harwich and Brewster),
less than 1% of the area being within the Town of Brewster. The Pleasant Bay ACEC was
nominated by the Conservation Commissions, Boards of Selectmen, and Planning Boards from
the Towns of Brewster, Chatham, Harwich, and Orleans and was designated as an ACEC in 1987
because of the area’s extraordinary natural resources. The boundary for this ACEC generally
follows a 100-foot buffer to the 10-foot contour line and includes wetlands and waterbodies that
outflow into Pleasant Bay. Over 1,000 acres of salt marsh and several hundred acres of tidal flats
are found in the ACEC. Other important habitats include islands, salt and freshwater ponds, rivers,
bays, and barrier beaches. These areas provide flood control, storm damage prevention, improved
water quality, wildlife habitat, and recreation opportunities to surrounding communities.
The 2,600-acre Inner Cape Cod Bay ACEC covers three towns (Eastham, Orleans and Brewster),
15% of the area being within the Town of Brewster. The Inner Cape Cod Bay ACEC was
nominated by the Conservation Commissions, Boards of Selectmen, and Planning Boards from
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the Towns of Brewster, Eastham, and Orleans and was designated as an ACEC in 1985 because
of the area’s extraordinary natural resources. The boundary for this ACEC generally follows the
10-foot contour line on the landward side, and the mean low water on the seaward side, and extends
from First Encounter Beach south to include Namskaket Creek. Included within the ACEC
boundary are hundreds of acres of saltmarsh, highly productive shellfish beds, undisturbed wildlife
habitat, barrier beaches, salt ponds, and tidal rivers and creeks. These areas provide flood control,
storm damage prevention, improved water quality, and recreation opportunities to surrounding
communities. Brewster’s coastal resources, which are either partially or entirely included in the
ACEC, include Cape Cod Bay, Namskaket Creek, and the barrier beach south of Namskaket
Creek.
F. Environmental Challenges
Brewster faces a number of environmental challenges that influence open space and recreation
planning, including:
• Wastewater Management;
• Stormwater Management;
• Coastal Erosion and Flooding;
• Biodiversity and Habitat Fragmentation;
• Climate Change;
• Hazardous Waste;
• Solid Waste Disposal
• Landfill, Plumes
• Forestry Management
• Invasive Species
• Ground and surface water pollution, including both point and non-point sources
• Environmental Equity Issues
1. Wastewater Management
Pollutants in wastewater impact groundwater quality and can contribute to the degradation of fresh
water ponds and coastal water resources. Nitrogen and phosphorus are the main pollutants of
concern. Nitrogen causes problems with marine resources and phosphorus is the primary pollutant
impacting fresh water ponds. Both nitrogen and phosphorus act as a fertilizer, contributing to
excess growth of aquatic plants and algae, changing natural ecosystems and leading to the loss of
fish and shellfish habitat.
Pleasant Bay is listed as an Impaired Waterbody for nitrogen by the State of Massachusetts, and a
Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) report has been issued by the Massachusetts Department of
Environmental Protection (DEP) setting nitrogen loads and reductions for both current and
buildout conditions within the Bay’s watershed. Septic systems located within the watershed to
Pleasant Bay provide the main source of nitrogen impacts to the Bay. As such, the Town of
Brewster will need to manage nitrogen loading to the Bay by controlling wastewater sources within
the watershed. The Town of Brewster is part of an inter-municipal, 20-year watershed permit
issued by DEP to the four town with contributing watersheds to Pleasant Bay; Chatham, Harwich,
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Orleans and Brewster. The Pleasant Bay Alliance is facilitating the nitrogen management and
water quality improvement projects for each Town under the permit, which is in its 2nd year.
Some of Brewster’s Ponds (e.g., The Mill Pond Complex) have historically been degraded by
nutrients (namely, phosphorous) and pathogens coming from the numerous farms, at a time when
there was no vegetative cover or trees to prevent nutrients from entering the ponds. Today septic
systems discharging effluent and fertilized lawns contribute nutrients close to the pond shores.
Phosphorus discharged from a septic system is absorbed by the sediments below the leaching
facility, and phosphorus can only move downgradient from a septic system once sediments below
the system have adsorbed all the phosphorus they can uptake. Therefore, the closer a system is to
a pond shore, the more likely that it will be a source of phosphorus to a pond. Transport of
pathogens in groundwater is related to both distance and size. Transport of bacteria and protozoa
from septic systems and groundwater discharge systems is normally small because these organisms
are relatively large compared to soil pores and can be adsorbed to the soil particles. However,
septic systems near the edge of ponds could be sources of pathogens, especially if the systems are
not functioning correctly.
The town is addressing wastewater management through its Integrated Water Resource
Management Plan. Open space planning can help reduce development potential and the impacts
of wastewater-associated contamination, particularly when required within watersheds to impaired
embayments, such as Pleasant Bay and within buffer areas to freshwater ponds.
2. Stormwater Management
Stormwater runoff can potentially impact drinking water supplies, ponds, streams and coastal
waters. Proper management of stormwater is critical to the protection of these resources.
Stormwater runoff is the excess precipitation that runs off over the land and discharges to nearby
receiving waters such as streams, ponds, wetlands, and estuaries. Stormwater can impact all of
Brewster’s water resources in different ways. As land development occurs, impervious surfaces
block the natural infiltration of rainwater, thereby reducing the recharge rate and lowering the
water table. Increased runoff volumes and increased peak flows can cause more stream-related
flooding and can also modify streambeds with increased erosion and sedimentation. Water
temperature is also increased in streams near impervious areas. New land uses can introduce
pollutants and nutrients that are carried by stormwater to receiving waters. Ponds are susceptible
to phosphorus loads which can exacerbate algae and aquatic plant levels. Wetlands are susceptible
to impacts from stormwater in terms of both hydrology and water quality changes. Wetlands are
very sensitive to water level changes and to alterations in water inputs. Coastal waters, including
estuarine systems, are sensitive to stormwater inputs that alter salinity levels and to nitrogen loads
that promote algae growth and impact eel grass health.
Increased development brings with it an increase in impervious ground cover. The greater the area
of imperviousness, the greater the stormwater impact on water resources. At over 25% impervious
area, receiving waters are highly impaired (NRDC, 1999). Some studies have shown that the
health of water resources is impacted at levels as low as 5 to 7% impervious cover. More recently,
even lower impervious thresholds (1 to 2%) have been found to reduce riverine fish populations
in Massachusetts with about 5% impact on fish for every 1% increase in impervious cover
(Armstrong, 2011). While most watersheds are developed with a variety of land uses, significant
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residential, commercial and industrial development often bring impervious cover levels that
exceed ecological stress thresholds.
The town is addressing stormwater management through its Integrated Water Resource
Management Plan. Open space planning that helps to decrease development potential also reduces
impervious cover and associated stormwater pollution. Low impact development (LID) practices,
which can be incorporated into open space and recreation area design, can also be used to treat
nitrogen and phosphorus to limit discharge of these pollutants to fresh water ponds and coastal
waters.
3. Coastal Erosion and Flooding
Coastal erosion is a natural process that provides sediment for downdrift marshes, beaches and
dunes. However, development along the coast has reduced the amount of land available for natural
erosion, and has increased vulnerability to flooding. Sea level rise and the increased frequency
and intensity of storm events resulting from global climate change also exacerbates coastal erosion
and flooding, which will be further discussed below. Coastal erosion threatens public and private
property, causes shoaling that impedes navigation, and increases sediment loading to receiving
waters.
Brewster is addressing challenges related to coastal erosion and flooding through its Hazard
Mitigation Plan. Open space planning, particularly protection of vulnerable shorelines from
development, can help mitigate coastal erosion and flooding impacts.
4. Biodiversity and Habitat Fragmentation
Another major impact of development is fragmentation of habitat. Undisturbed, unfragmented
forest interiors are crucial locations for declining populations of breeding Neotropical migrant bird
species, such as Scarlet Tanager, Wood Thrushes and warblers. Development also brings with it
the disruption of wildlife corridors. Animals which normally were able to safely traverse from one
area to another along protected corridors, are now forced to cross roads to reach food sources,
many getting hit by cars in the process. Other species thrive in fragmented/disrupted habitats, such
as Grey Squirrels and raccoons.
Brewster has been working to enhance biodiversity and reduce habitat fragmentation through a
number of approaches, such as promoting Open Space Residential Design subdivisions instead of
conventional subdivisions and encouraging Natural Resource Protection Design within the Water
Quality Protection District. The town can further these efforts through open space planning that
prioritizes purchases that connect existing open spaces and natural areas to extend habitat
corridors.
5. Climate Change
Climate change is already affecting the physical and biological environments of the northeast, and
is expected to intensify in coming decades. Temperatures have risen by about 0.7°C over the last
century and are projected to increase by a further 3-5°C under probable emission scenarios. As a
consequence of increasing temperatures, sea level will rise by at least one meter this century, with
even greater coastal impacts from storm surges in areas that have seen major population increases.
Increasing temperatures have also affected altitudinal and range shifts in species, and earlier
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seasonal migrations for migratory animals, a trend that will be reinforced further in the future. The
northeast region has recorded higher amounts of precipitation over the last 50 years, with a greater
frequency of extreme events and all model simulations for the future point to wetter winter and
spring conditions, but much drier summers and falls. This will increase overall runoff but shift the
timing of peak flows of rivers to earlier in the spring, with longer periods of low flows in the
summer months. All of these changes will have major impacts on aquatic and terrestrial
ecosystems across the region, changing forest types and aquatic environments, affecting fish
community structure and the timing of migratory fishes (NECSC, 2012).
Climate change impacts, including projected sea level rise, increased storm frequency and
intensity, wetter springs and drier summers, and shifting habitat conditions should all be taken into
account when planning open space and recreation resources. For example, when protecting coastal
areas, sea level projections should be incorporated into calculations of protection zones. Brewster
began mapping areas impacted by sea level rise in its Integrated Water Resource Management Plan
(2013), and the Brewster Coastal Resource Management Plan (2019) identified climate scenarios
to guide resilient planning strategies in our vulnerable coastal areas. In addition, Brewster received
Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness designation from the State Executive Office of Energy and
Environmental Affairs in 2019 and has been actively pursuing resiliency grants under that
program.
It is also important to note that climate change impacts will exacerbate the challenges described
above: wastewater and stormwater management, coastal erosion and flooding, and biodiversity
and habitat fragmentation. For example, sea level rise causing ocean encroachment and
groundwater rise could reduce septic system setbacks from the ocean and less separation from
septic drain fields to groundwater, which could increase the vulnerability of these receiving waters
to wastewater-associated pollution.
Projected impacts of climate change as well as Brewster’s adaptation strategies are described in a
number of Brewster’s local planning documents. For example projected sea level rise impacts and
adaptation strategies are included in the town’s Integrated Water Resource Management Plan.
Brewster’s Hazard Mitigation Plan incorporates strategies to mitigate projected increased storm
frequency and duration.
6. Hazardous Waste
Over the last several decades, there have been a number of residential oil spills, due to leaks from
home heating oil tanks. These spills have resulted in large excavation of yards, removal of
contaminated soils and replacement with clean soil. Monitoring wells have been installed at each
site and reports are received by the Conservation Commission and Board of Health on a regular
basis. There are two plumes emanating from the Landfill area, which are being carefully
monitored and evaluated using monitoring wells located at appropriate areas within the parcel
boundaries and off-site.
Brewster’s Water Quality Protection Bylaw prohibits facilities that generate, treat, store or dispose
of hazardous waste throughout the town (with a few exceptions). It is important for the town to
continue to manage hazardous waste to protect the town’s sensitive water resources.
7. Landfills and Plumes
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Brewster’s landfill has been capped and has required annual groundwater monitoring. The facility
now is the Brewster Recycling Center and all solid waste is sent off site for incineration.
8. Groundwater and Surface Water Pollution
The town has embarked on a comprehensive water planning effort to address concerns and threats
to its water resources in town. It has been actively monitoring pond water quality and has
addressed nutrient management through active remediation and town bylaws.
The department of public works is charged with MS4 compliance and is actively working to
minimize stormwater pollution to our water resources.
9. Solid Waste Disposal
The Brewster solid waste transfer station and recycling center is owned and operated by the town.
The Brewster Department of Public Works (DPW) is located on-site and has several buildings
including a salt storage shed and a highway garage with offices for DPW personnel. The former
landfill is also located on-site, and is shielded by dense, wooded vegetation that exists within the
site boundary. The landfill operations began in the 1940s and ceased accepting waste in 1998. The
landfill was capped in 1998-1999, and post-closure environmental monitoring (groundwater,
surface water and soil gas monitoring) is conducted by the town on an ongoing basis.
Brewster has been exploring ways to reduce the amount of solid waste that is ultimately landfilled
through recycling and composting initiatives. On October 1, 2013 Brewster started a unit-based fee
system (Pay-As-You-Throw-PAYT) for handling the disposal of non-recyclable waste. Only
designated yellow disposal bags are accepted for trash at the transfer station. These are available at
local retailers. Such a unit-based system encourages more recycling by Brewster residents. It also
places the costs of disposal more equitably on those who create the waste.
At Spring 2019 Town Meeting, Brewster voted to ban single-use plastic bags. These bags may not be
offered by Brewster businesses to their customers starting June 1, 2020.
The Town has also changed their Transfer Fee Sticker System. Previously it cost about $100 per
family for a transfer station sticker, with those solely disposing of recyclables entering for free.
Now everyone pays $50 for a sticker, whether they are just dropping off recycling or dropping off
regular trash.
10. Forestry Management
As mentioned in Section 4.C above, Brewster has relatively large areas of unfragmented second
growth pine-oak forest compared to other Cape towns. These second growth pine/oak forests have
sprung up on formerly cultivated lands that once were forested, prior to a number of instances of
clearing. Many of the pines and oaks are often 30 to 50 years old, are surrounded by younger trees
of the same species and are found on most undeveloped sites on the Cape. These forest
communities continue to change as pines mature and give way to oaks and other hardwoods.
Due to the maritime influence inherent to Cape Cod, these forests are subject to the damage caused
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by salt exposure and intense wind events. Pines are especially susceptible to wind-throw,
uprooting, crown and branch damage. Most winter storms bring the Cape storm surges from the
ocean. Periodic defoliation of trees (especially Oaks) by forest insects such as the gypsy moth or
the newly arrived winter moth increases the exposure of sunlight to the under-story shrubs. This
dry and acidic environment slows the decay of organic matter and leads to accumulation of litter
and duff. A report by the USDA Forest Service indicates that Barnstable County, given its sandy
soil, wind conditions and preponderance of pine and oak trees, is as prone to wildfires as regions
of California.
Residential development has increased within the forested urban interface area over the past two
decades warranting more management issues. The forested land provides important habitat for
many wildlife and plant species and serve also as a water supply and recharge area for the town.
Managing the town forests for their conservation and water source values, as well as reducing
wildfire hazards and protecting public safety are priorities.
Brewster is fortunate to have a number of significantly sized (by Cape standards) unfragmented
second growth forests designated as protected open space. Brewster is moving forward with forest
resource management for these areas.
a. The Punkhorn Parklands Conservation Area, located in the southwestern corner of Town,
contains over 800 acres of predominantly Pitch Pine forest, slowly being overtaken by hardwoods,
mostly Black oak with some White Oak. There are a number of small pure stands of Pine Barrens,
home to a threatened species, the Barrens Buck Moth. Important as a forest rebuilder, the Pitch
Pine is slowly replenishing the soil. Other species include American Beech, White Pine and Red
Maple. The Punkhorn’s miles of trails provide for long leisurely walks and possible glimpses of
“forest interior” species, such as warblers, vireos, cuckoos, tanagers and whip-poor-wills, that
prefer to dwell in blocks of unbroken woodland.
In 2006 the Wildland Fire Protection and Preparedness Plan for the Punkhorn Parklands
Brewster, Massachusetts was done by Caren A. Caljouw and Seth Wilkinson for the Town of
Brewster and the Cape Cod Cooperative Extension. This Wildland Fire Protection and
Preparedness Plan was funded through the Cape Cod Cooperative Extension in cooperation with
the Town of Brewster, as part of a county-wide initiative to address wildfire hazards on town-
owned or town administered open space tracts. The Town of Brewster nominated the Punkhorn
Parklands as its highest priority for wildfire assessment and preparedness planning. It is Brewster’s
largest contiguous conservation property and consists of mixed oak and pitch pine forest, which
contains highly flammable and heavy fuel accumulations. Residential development has increased
within this interface area over the past two decades, warranting assessment of wildfire risks and
hazardous fuels.
Based on the primary management goal to reduce wildfire hazards within the Punkhorn Parklands
through an integrated and proactive land management program, the following objectives and
strategies were established.
1. Use prescribed burning and mechanical methods to reduce fuel loadings within priority
fire-prone areas of the Punkhorn Parklands.
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2. Maintain the integrity of dirt roads and access points to provide for rapid response, fire
suppression, and fire breaks.
3. Provide neighboring landowners with information regarding fire hazards and
recommendations to protect life and property from wildfire.
4. Employ best management practices during the course of vegetation management to
maintain and enhance biological diversity in varying seral stages of the vegetation.
5. Offer prescribed burn training opportunities on these properties, emphasizing basic
wildland fire behavior, fire suppression, ignition techniques, and safety procedures.
6. Develop prescriptions for priority fuel reduction zones and other management units.
7. Establish team of land managers and fire professionals for Punkhorn Parklands to
determine implementation schedule and guide management actions.
All recommendations outlined in this plan could not be implemented immediately. Limitations of
technical resources, sequencing of actions, and limited funding resources required that priorities
be established. Those actions deemed most critical to reducing very hazardous fuel loads and
providing for public safety were to be addressed first. With grants received from Barnstable
County the Town purchased a tractor and equipment for mechanical treatment of areas in the
Punkhorn staff has cut vegetation in various areas to reduce fire hazards.
b. Nickerson State Park, located at the eastern end of town has over 1,888 acres of woodlands
and ponds. One of the most popular parks in the state, it has salt and fresh-water beaches, miles
of trails for walking, hiking and horse-back riding, 420 campsites, and boating and swimming
access. The State has their own fire management plan and Brewster does not participate, except
to respond to any calls for fire suppression assistance.
c. Mother’s Bog/Slough Road Woodlands comprise 80 acres off of Slough Road. In 2012, using
a grant from Barnstable County, a DCR Forestry Management Plan was prepared by Joel R.
Carlson, Licensed Mass. Forester. This property is abutted by open space to the west and south.
To the east and north are residential areas.
Permitted uses and activates that pertain to forest management on the property include the
maintenance and use of roads and trails for passive recreational purposes, passive public
recreational use, development of limited facilities related to passive recreational use, the planting
and cutting of trees and shrubs and removal of invasive species when following an approved
management plan and best management practices, installation of water monitoring wells, and
wildlife enhancement projects after consultation with the conservation easement.
The property is located within the Town of Brewster’s Fire Management Suggested Focus Area 3,
as identified by the 2012 Barnstable County Wildfire Preparedness Plan, and is classified as being
an area of High Wildland Fire Hazard. Suggested management actions for Focus Area 3 are fuel
treatments and/or structural ignitability Reduction strategies.
Portions of the property have been designated by the Massachusetts DEP as protected wetlands,
primarily in the area of the former cranberry bog. The Massachusetts NHESP has designated a
small section in the northern portion of the property as Priority Rare Species Habitat. Additionally,
the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife has identified all of the property as being
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within the BioMap2 Core Habitat, Critical Natural Landscape, Species of Conservation Concern,
and Core Natural Landscape Block designated areas. These are considered areas crucial to
protecting the biodiversity and land identified as critical to protecting the state’s long term viability
of rare species, common species, and natural communities.
The trees on the property are predominantly pitch pine (Pinus rigida) and oak consisting of black
oak (Quercus velutina) and white oak (Quercus alba). Understory vegetation is primarily
comprised of blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium) and scattered black huckleberry (Gaylussacia
baccata). Forest health is good throughout the property. No evidence of recent wildfire, significant
wind events, or insect infestations has been observed. Limited invasive plant species occur on the
property.
The primary property goals are to: protect water quality; promote biological diversity; enhance
habitat for birds; enhance habitat for small animals; enhance habitat for large animals; preserve or
improve scenic beauty; and reduce fire hazard.
Objectives (in part for various areas) include:
1. Maintain the current natural community type within its natural range of variability.
2. Allow to transition and mature into pine forest.
3. Reduce the presence of invasive species and maintain the current open field.”
4. Allow to transition and revert back to a forest wetland system.”
Management practices recommended to be done within the next 10 years include:
1. General Property Management: Identify property boundaries and prevent un-authorized
activities and encroachment.
2. Wildland Fire Hazard Reduction: Increase firefighter and public safety by decreasing
wildland fire risk in and around the property and reduce the threat of wildfire to property
and life on lands adjacent to the property using education and awareness programs.
*Educate property owners re- defensible space, hazards of wildfire and prevention
measures to protect life and property. (200-250 residences)
3. Wildland Fire Hazard Reduction: Increase firefighter and public safety by decreasing
wildland fire risk in and around the property. *Improve dirt road access and egress for
public and emergency vehicles and reduced potential for erosion.
4. Ecosystem and Wildlife Habitat preservation.
5. Reduce Invasive Species.
d. Wing’s Island is north of Route 6A, on Paines Creek. Starting in 2004, the Town received a
Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP) grant from NRCS. Wilkinson Ecological Design
mowed the field and made 17 burn piles for a future burn as part of a habitat protection and fire
prevention strategy.
In 2005, the Town was awarded a Barnstable County Land Management Grant for $7,500. The
Town hired Vince Olivier to supervise AmeriCorps and work with the Cape Cod National
Seashore burn crew to perform a prescribed burn. Twelve piles were burned along with 2.5 acres.
Mechanical mowing was then performed and the area was then seeded with warm season native
grasses. Trail repairs were completed with granite curbing and repairs were done to the boardwalk.
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Since then, the Brewster Department of Natural Resources has managed the field, utilizing a tractor
to periodically mow the 10 acres, coupled with periodic controlled burns in coordination with
Americorps and the Seashore burn team.
Volunteers from Americorps, the Brewster Conservation Trust and the Brewster FLATS group
have worked to remove invasive species from this and many other conservation areas around town.
e. Bakers Pond Conservation Area is located west of Nickerson State Park and borders Bakers
Pond, a resource largely in Orleans. These 39.29 forested acres, another predominantly Pitch Pine
forest, also contain a 10.70-acre Cedar Swamp. No forestry management plan has been established
for this conservation area.
f. Sheep Pond Woodlands, 52 acres located in the middle of town off of Route 137, adjacent to a
State Cape Cod Rail Trail parking lot, is another predominantly Pitch Pine forest. No forestry
management plan has been established for this conservation area. As funds are available over the
next few years, the Town anticipates completing a forestry management plan for all conservation
areas.
11. Invasive Species
The Massachusetts Invasive Plant Advisory Group (MIPAG) defines invasive plants as “non-
native species that have spread into native or minimally managed plant systems in Massachusetts.”
These plants cause economic or environmental harm by developing self-sustaining populations
and becoming dominant and/or disruptive to those systems.
Already, invasive non-native organisms have contributed to the decline of 42% of our federally
listed threatened and endangered species. Source: The Nature Conservancy
12. Environmental Equity
Brewster does not have significant populations meeting the income and minority criteria used by
the 2010 MassGIS work that identifies and maps environmental justice populations for all
communities in Massachusetts. The criteria used for identifying environmental justice populations
include:
• Income – households earn 65% or less of the statewide median income;
• Minority – 25% or more of residents are minority;
• Foreign Born – 25% or more of residents are foreign born;
• Lacking English Proficiency – 25% or more residents are lacking in English proficiency.
There are no populations identified based on either minority classification or based on the income
data layer. However there are certainly populations in Brewster whose income is at poverty level,
10.9% as of 2011 per STATS Cape Cod. According to a report entitled Monitoring the Human
Condition 2009 prepared by the Barnstable County Department of Human Services, the following
populations of need are found in the County, and in Brewster:
• Low-income young households with one to two children who rent their home and may
receive some financial assistance;
• Low-income young to middle-age households with at most one child who rent, are
homeless or live in a group home; and
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• Low-income young to middle-age households with no more than one child who rent, are
homeless or live in a group home. These households also may be cultural minorities,
receiving financial assistance, or chronically ill. This group is considered by the report as
the most needy among Cape Cod households.
There do not appear to be specific low economic population pockets, but populations may be
spread in all areas of town. In setting priorities and allocating resources for open space and
recreation facilities and programs the town has made sure that adequate open space and recreation
areas are spread throughout the town. Since the 1984 OSRP was first developed, there has been
community involvement in planning and environmental decision-making to maintain and/or
enhance the environmental quality of all neighborhoods.
Location of Conservation & Recreations Areas throughout Brewster:
• North West Brewster –Quivett Marsh Vista, Drummer Boy Park & Recreation area,
• South West Brewster – Mother’s Bog and Meetinghouse Road Conservation Areas,
Punkhorn Parklands
• Central Brewster – Sheep Pond Woodlands, Long Pond Woodlands Conservation Area,
Stony Brook and Eddy Elementary Schools Fields and Tennis Courts & Town Hall
recreation fields
• North East Brewster – Bakers Pond Conservation Area
• East Brewster – Nickerson State Park
• South East Brewster - Reed Kingsbury Conservation Area & Freeman’s Way Recreations
fields