174Site ID:EssexTown:21.5Acres:YesRapid Technical Site Assessment:RestrictionFillAgricultureOtherCompleted ProjectLowPriority:Site consists of the Route 133 crossing of Ebben Creek and ~21 acres of upstream marsh. The culvert beneath the road is an old granite block structure ~3 feet wide by 7 feet high. A tidal survey in 2005 measured a peak restriction of ~0.3 feet during spring tide conditions. This finding was surprising as the restriction was expected to be more significant due to the small size of the opening compared to the creek channel width and flow volumes. However, a second tidal survey later in 2005 confirmed the original survey findings. The upstream marsh appears to be in good condition with no obvious signs of restriction-caused degradation, except for a very large scour pool at the opening that is matched by a similar scour pool downstream as well. Areas of Phragmites fringe the marsh edge in places, similar to other un-restricted marshes in this region. Restoration actions would replace the old culvert with a structure large enough to pass the full tidal range and prevent scouring of adjacent creek banks caused by excessive velocities. Restoration potential is considered low based on the relatively minor restriction and lack of significant degradation upstream. When the time comes for this culvert to be rebuit or replaced by MassHighway for structural reasons, it should be further assessed so the new structure eliminates the tidal restriction. See the Rapid Site Assessment for further details.Site Summary:Under DevelopmentImpact Type(s)StatusPotential Project
