390Site ID:IpswichTown:37.4Acres:NoRapid Technical Site Assessment:RestrictionFillAgricultureOtherCompleted ProjectMediumPriority:Site consists of ~37 acres of salt marsh upstream (east) of the MBTA railroad line in the upper reaches of the Muddy Run Creek tidal system. An old farm road crosses the marsh and tidal creek and impounds water within the upstream creek but does not restrict peak tidal flows (based on a 2005 tidal survey). GIS analysis and site observation indicate that the upstream marsh is in a very degraded condition with large areas of standing water on the marsh surface that does not appear to drain. The historic tidal ditch system appears fouled and not functioning to drain water from the marsh. It is likely that the marsh is subsiding due to constant saturation of the marsh peat. Phragmites has invaded many areas of the marsh. Further assessment is needed to evaluate the ecological condition of the marsh and causes of impacts and degradation. Restoration actions would include a thorough cleaning of the tidal ditch system to restore tidal exchange and proper drainage throughout the marsh system. Restoration potential is considered medium based on the large area of restoration potential, apparent severity of the degradation, and relatively low expense to improve the site's hydrology. The Mosquito Control District may be well-suited to conduct this restoration work with a comprehensive Open Marsh Water Management project throughout the marsh.Site Summary:Under DevelopmentImpact Type(s)StatusPotential Project
