PARAN UPLANDS MANAGEMENT PLAN

January 2006

 

I.         Purpose

A.            Goal of the Management Plan for the Property

This Management Plan delineates the long-term use and management of the 55.2 acres of undeveloped land in the Towns of Bennington and Shaftsbury depicted in Exhibit A (the “Property”.)

The Property is owned by The Fund for North Bennington, Inc. (the “Fund.”)  The Fund acquired the Property in December 2004 thanks to a grant from the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board and to a generous in-kind donation by the Sage City Syndicate, Inc.  The Vermont Land Trust (“VLT”) holds a Grant of Development Rights and Conservation Restrictions on the Property (the “Conservation Easement”).  A copy of the Conservation Easement is attached as Exhibit B.

B.        Responsibilities

The Fund is a Vermont non-profit corporation qualified as a tax-exempt public charity under IRC § 501(c)3.  The Fund is also a qualified land preservation organization under 10 V.S.A. Sec. 6306(b).  It currently owns and manages 275 acres, more or less, of woods and agricultural land in and around North Bennington.  The Fund also holds conservation easements and historic preservation easements on other properties in North Bennington.  More information about the Fund may be found at http://www.northbennington.org.

A six-member board of trustees governs the Fund. The current President is Robert E. Woolmington.  He can be contacted by e-mail at thefund@northbennington.org. 

II.        General Description of Lake Paran.

Lake Paran is one of the few lakes in Bennington County.  A water body of about 35 acres, it is located in three zoning districts: the Town of Bennington, the Village of North Bennington, and the Town of Shaftsbury.

A detailed aerial photo of Lake Paran, the Village of North Bennington and the valley of Paran Creek can be found at pages 12-13 of North Bennington & The Paran Creek. Past and Future 1739-2005.  This 24-page guide to the Village of North Bennington, published by the Fund, may be downloaded at: http://www.northbennington.org.

Paran Creek rises in South Shaftsbury, flows through Lake Paran, and then follows Route 67A to its confluence with the Walloomsac River.  Until the 1840s, the land now at the bottom of Lake Paran was a broad marshy area along a wide section of Paran Creek.  When the railroad was first constructed from North Bennington to Bennington, the creek was bridged and dammed.  The dam’s spillway allowed control of water flow downstream to industrial mills along Paran Creek.  Each mill had its own dam and waterworks.  The Village of North Bennington became an active industrial center thanks to this string of mills, and Lake Paran was the key regulator of power sources for these facilities.  The lake itself was undeveloped except for the railroad track along the south side, and a farm along the north side. 

Historic photos of Lake Paran and Paran Creek in the early 20th century may be viewed at http://www.northbennington.org.  These include views of the Property.

During the Depression of the 1930s, the rail tracks along the Lake became the site of a “hobo village” for many years.  After the war, the McCarthy family (owners of a farm along Paran’s north shore) established a private swimming concession on the lake, and it became a popular recreation area for the local community.  In the 1950s, a group of concerned citizens acquired the swimming access area from the McCarthy family, and organized an association to manage the swimming area on a non-profit basis.  This organization became Paran Recreation, Inc., a Vermont non-profit corporation.  It owns approximately four acres on the northwest shore in the Village of North Bennington, as depicted on Exhibit A.  Paran Recreation, Inc. operates a seasonal swimming and boating access area, with a bathhouse and open pavilion.  The organization also sponsors concerts, dances and community events in summer, and provides swimming instruction during the week.  Paran Recreation, Inc. has donated a restrictive covenant to the Village of North Bennington to assure that its swimming area is maintained for public access.

In the late 1970s, the old railroad dam started to leak, creating an immediate danger for the mills and residences downstream along Paran Creek.  The lake was drained for several years while the dam was rebuilt with state funding.  A fishing access point and parking area were constructed on the lake’s south side, and a new spillway was installed next to the boat launch.  This facility is now widely used by fishers and boaters during the summer.  The parking area also provides access for the many people who use the lake in winter for ice fishing and (in years of early freezes without snow) for ice-skating.  To the south of the boat access, the Village of North Bennington maintains two large ballfields.  The area is often quite busy on summer evenings when families arrive to watch Little League games, and then walk along the lake near the boat launching area.

While Paran’s remaining lakeshore has remained undeveloped, there has been a steady increase in residential housing in Shaftsbury several hundred yards to the north.  These residences are now visible from some areas on the lake.  Prior to acquisition of the Property by the Fund, three owners controlled the north shore of the lake from Paran Recreation’s beach to the inlet along Paran Creek.  All of this land had a high potential for housing development because of the views to the lake and mountains beyond.  Development of this area immediately to the north of the lake would forever have impaired the open and natural setting of Lake Paran.  The Vermont Housing and Conservation Board underwrote the Property’s acquisition by the Fund to assure perpetual conservation of Paran’s northerly and eastern shorelines, and to open these areas to public use.

III       General Description of the Property

The Property consists of approximately 55.2 acres, including 2,976 feet of shoreline along Lake Paran and Paran Creek.  (The Property consists of the areas shaded in green and identified on Exhibit A as formerly owned by Sage City Syndicate, Inc., McCarthy and Mance.)

The Property along Paran’s northerly shoreline is characterized by open marsh rising to thick woods.  These woods open to a mowed meadow and shoreline marsh in the area of the Property that was formerly part of the McCarthy farm.  Approximately 3.5 acres of open meadow surround the McCarthy farmhouse.  The house and 1.94 acres, plus or minus, were retained by Mr. McCarthy.  He also retained the right to keep the existing meadows cut, including those portions of meadow owned by the Fund.

At the east end of the lake, land slopes steeply from the shore up a slope covered with birches.  Above that, the land is choked with Japanese honeysuckle, Lonicera japonica.  The Property encircles but does not include the high point of land between the Lake and Paran Creek to the north.  This excluded area is identified on Exhibit A as “Exclusion 11 acres.”  The Fund holds a right of first refusal on those 11 acres.

There is a pre-existing network of footpaths on the Property.  The principal path originates at the boundary with the Paran Recreation, Inc. parcel and follows the lakeshore to an open, marshy area just downslope from the McCarthy farmhouse.  A path continues to the top of the slope above the eastern end of the lake.  This trail then splits into two forks, both of which lead to the site of a former bridge over Paran Creek used for agricultural purposes into the early 20th century.  Some foundations of the bridge are visible in the creek.  These paths have been trimmed in recent years but were unmarked at the time the Fund acquired the Property.

IV.      Management of the Property

The Property will be managed for purposes of conserving natural habitat, restoring old-growth forest, providing trails for public use, allowing non-motorized public recreation, maintaining scenic qualities and for serving as a laboratory for scientific study and education.

Vegetation management.

Meadows.  The areas of the Property that were historically maintained as open meadows will continue to be cut from time to time and preserved as open land.  Ted McCarthy retains the right to mow the fields, and it is anticipated that he will continue to arrange for annual cutting.  These areas of the Property are freely available for public access.

The Fund may allow these meadows to be planted or seeded for gardens or other agricultural purposes.  A bench, chair and/or picnic table may be constructed in a small area at the high point of land near the southwesterly corner of the pasture west of the McCarthy farmhouse.

Woodlands.   The Fund will manage the balance of the Property according to the following principles:

 

§       There shall be no commercial harvesting of trees.

 

§       Invasive, non-native species such as honeysuckle, buckthorn, barberry and euonymus may be removed.

 

§       Trees shall be cut only for the following purposes:

 

§       Construction and maintenance of trails;

§       Protection of the public safety;

§       Removal of diseased specimens;

§       To foster regeneration of native species in connection with removal of invasive shrubs;

§       To maintain the historic boundaries of the Property’s meadows; and

§       To improve views of the lake and village from the top of the slope above the eastern lake shore.

 

§       Historic stonewalls shall be preserved.

§       Except for removal of invasive species, downed timber will not be physically removed from the Property.

 

Eradicating invasive species.  The long-term restoration of woodlands on the Property will be greatly delayed and impaired by the widespread infestation of Japanese honeysuckle.  In areas, the honeysuckle is so thick that access can only be gained on hands and knees, at best.  This thick net of vegetation chokes out all competition.

The Fund consulted with James White, the County Forester in Bennington County, and with Alan Calfee, of Dorset, a forester and teacher of best management practices.  Both strongly recommended that The Fund undertake a systematic effort to eradicate the Japanese honeysuckle as a predicate to long-term restoration of natural habitat.

Removal and control of Japanese honeysuckle, barberry and other invasive species will be aggressively pursued to the extent financial resources allow, and in accord with the following standards.

Japanese honeysuckle will be controlled and removed by (a) mechanical and/or hand cutting and/or (b) the application of glyphosphate herbicide (tradenames Roundup, Rodeo or Accord) or Garlon to the foliage and/or to the cut stems of the plant.  Small trees may also be removed with the honeysuckle as appropriate to aid regeneration.  Removal methods will be consistent with those described in The Nature Conservancy’s Elemental Stewardship Abstract for Lonicera japonica.  A copy is available at http://tncweeds.ucdavis.edu/esadocs/documnts/lonijap.html.  The honeysuckle branches, roots and stems may be burned on the Property, left to rot or removed.

Removal of honeysuckle should be carefully documented to allow long term scientific monitoring of the difference in vegetation between areas where invasive species were removed and areas that were uncut.  This will require documentation of appropriate control areas as well.

Because of the immense amount of honeysuckle on the Property, it may not be financially feasible to eradicate it all.  The Fund will give priority to sections near existing trails, and where most readily accessible to the public.

Any application of herbicide shall be done in a manner that will reasonably assure no runoff or discharge to the lake, and appropriate signage will be posted in advance of spraying to warn the public.

Other invasive species found on the Property include purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) and giant or common weed (Phragmites austrailis).  The loosestrife is currently found in areas along Paran Creek, and the giant reed is growing on the lake’s north shore.  As resources allow, the Fund may take steps to control or eradicate these species.  The reed may be controlled by seasonal cutting or, if a permit is obtained from the Agency of Natural Resources, by application of glyphosate herbicide.  Loosestrife may be controlled by physical removal or by cutting.  If biological controls for loosestrife become generally accepted management tools for conservation organizations in Vermont, the Fund may utilize those as well.

Ecologically sensitive areas.  Fieldwork to date has not identified any rare or endangered species on the Property.  The shoreline of Lake Paran, particularly along the marshy northern edge of the lake, is characterized by marshy wetlands.  While these areas will be accessible to individual members of the public, the Fund does not intend to construct special access routes to the northern shoreline except as discussed below in the area near the McCarthy farmhouse. 

If rare or endangered species are identified, or if access by individual members of the public creates damage to shoreline habitat, the Fund will post signs to prevent or limit access to areas that may be endangered or damaged by public use.  It is not expected that this will be necessary, and the Fund will endeavor to use the least restrictive means necessary to assure conservation.

Control of nuisance wildlife.  Lake Paran has been the home of large flocks of Canada geese and other fowl during recent winters, and this intensive use may have long-term implications for water quality and shoreline habitat.  The Fund has no immediate plans to take any action respecting geese, and there has been little observed use of The Fund’s Property by the flock.  The Fund will cooperate with the State of Vermont, local authorities and other landowners in any control or management program that has been reviewed and approved by State wildlife management officials.

Walking trails. 

Existing trails.  The Fund will maintain and mark existing trails from Paran Recreation, Inc.’s property to the site of the old bridge over Paran Creek, including both existing routes along the uplands east of the lake.   The existing trail network is shown on the aerial photograph attached as Exhibit C.  Maintenance will involve clipping and trimming.  Modest widening of the existing trails may occur in areas where the path is closely hemmed in by vegetation.  Fallen trees will be removed, and cutting may be undertaken to remove potentially dangerous trees or limbs.  If erosion becomes a problem on steeper sections, water bars, steps or other improvements will be made consistent with maintaining the look and feel of a woodland trail.

One particularly sensitive trail area is located down-slope from the McCarthy farmhouse.  First, it is important to direct the public away from this private residence to maintain reasonable privacy for the owners, and likewise to minimize intrusion on the trail.  Second, the slope below the house is quite wet in places, and heavy use there would have the potential to create erosion and destroy habitat.  Third, the wetness of the trail there may make it undesirable for walking.  There is no pre-existing trail in this section; historically people have walked in the upland area retained by the McCarthy family. 

The preferred solution for location of a permanent trail in this area would be to construct a section of boardwalk near the lakeshore similar to the one used in the award-winning Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail in the Cape Cod National Seashore, in Wellfleet, Mass.  The photo below shows a section of the White Cedar Trail:

A section of boardwalk along the shore in that vicinity would allow walkers to approach the lake without damaging plants or soils, and would minimize the intrusion of the neighboring house on the walking experience.  As shown in the photo, the boardwalk could be widened to provide an observation area similar to a dock, although not extending into the water.  A chair, table and/or bench would also provide a welcome amenity for visitors, and help make the path more accessible for less able walkers.  Construction will depend on availability of financing and receipt of any required permits.

Benches and/or picnic tables would also be appropriately located on the overlook at the east end of the lake, and near the former bridge site.

An informational sign will be posted at the entrance to the trail on the boundary with the Paran Recreation, Inc. land.  This sign will identify ownership of the Property, and will reference the Housing and Conservation Board’s acquisition grant and the VLT stewardship of the Conservation Easement.  It will also contain a trail map.  This will be the principal entrance to the Property.

Small directional signs will be posted at the trail fork above the lake’s east slopes.  There may also be signs posted near the McCarthy farmhouse to advise about trail routes and the location of private property boundaries, or in other areas where it appears that directions may be necessary to advise the public of the trail routes.  These directional signs may include trail maps.  A trail map will be posted on the Fund’s Internet site. 

New trails and connecting trails.  There has been interest expressed in Shaftsbury for opening a trail from South Shaftsbury along Paran Creek to Lake Paran.  The select board of Bennington has endorsed creation of a trail along the old railroad line from North Bennington to Bennington.

Connection of trails on the Property to new trails on adjoining property is desirable and should be encouraged.  Such opportunities for connecting trails may take considerable time to mature, and will only happen if neighboring landowners wish to participate.  This management plan will be amended to reflect the location of any new trails before construction commences.  The most likely locations are (a) along Paran Creek upstream from the historic bridge site if a trail from South Shaftsbury is ever constructed, or (b) creating a loop trail that runs northerly from the old bridge site on Paran
Creek to the boundary with Paran Acres and then west to connect to existing trails.

A bridge across Paran Creek may be necessary to allow connection of the trails on the Property to a wider network.  A bridge would also allow walkers to circle the entire lake.  It would be appropriate to construct a pedestrian bridge across Paran Creek to allow an around-the-lake trail, or to connect to new trails, if necessary property rights can be obtained on the opposite shore. 

New trails may be laid out on the Property itself to provide access to areas currently remote from trails.  Any such new trails should be constructed to specifications similar to existing trails.  In general, these should be readily accessible to hikers wearing light shoes, should be wide enough for two walkers to pass side by side, and should avoid wet areas or sensitive habitat.  Short sections of puncheon or boardwalk may be used in wet areas.  Construction measures such as water bars and steps should be employed to minimize erosion.

To the extent feasible, trails will be constructed and maintained in a manner that discourages or prevents illegal ATV use.  This may involve the width of construction, use of small berms or appropriate barrier to prevent entry by ATVs.

Scientific study and education.  The Fund encourages use of the Property for scientific research, particularly with respect to the reforestation of the land after removal of invasive species.  Persons interested in such work are encouraged to contact The Fund.  Information about grants from the Fund may be obtained at http://www.northbennington.org.  The control of invasive honeysuckle on a portion of the Property offers opportunity for study of comparative forest regeneration.

The Fund also hopes that local schools will use the Property as a laboratory for education in the outdoors and natural history.  No permission is required for such use by groups, but the Fund encourages teachers and educators to communicate ideas or report results about educational use of the Property to the Fund.

Buildings and shelters.  At present there are no plans to construct any buildings or shelters on the Property.  It might be appropriate in the future to construct simple buildings or shelters solely for purposes of enhancing the non-motorized recreational nad/or educational use of the Property.  No such buildings or shelters shall be constructed unless the Vermont Land Trust first approves the particular design and location in writing.  Any such construction must (a) use materials and colors compatible with the natural environment, (b) be located to minimize the visual impact from the lake, the fishing access area and the swimming beach, and (c) minimize impacts to habitat and water resources.

Vehicular and Other Access.  Except as provided below, no automobiles, motorized equipment, motorized vehicle, trail bikes, bicycles, snowmobiles, or ATVs shall be permitted on the Property.  Any person violating these rules shall be subject to an immediate ban from use of the Property for any purposes.  This ban may be enforced by service of Notice Against Trespass or any legal means.

Access to the Property will be allowed for motorized wheelchairs or other appropriate vehicular means used by persons with disabilities -- to the extent that such access will not damage or impair existing trails or vegetation.  Inquires about facilitating handicapped access should be directed to thefund@northbennington.org. 

Authorized contractors or representatives of the Fund may use equipment or motorized vehicles on the Property in connection with vegetation management or for construction/maintenance activities allowed under this Plan and the Conservation Easement.

Horses will not be permitted on trails on the Property because of the potential for damage.

Parking.  The Fund does not intend to construct any parking areas at this time.  Visitors should park principally at the fishing access area maintained by the State of Vermont on the south shore of the Lake, at the Village Rail Station or in season at the Paran Recreation, Inc. lot.  Walkers from the fishing access area are warned that the Property can only be reached by crossing a train trestle over Paran Creek.  This is done routinely by people in the Village, but may be difficult for individuals with unsure gait or a fear of heights.  The trestle can also be very slippery when wet or icy.  Parking at Paran Recreation is subject to rules and terms established by that organization. The Property may also be accessed from public roads in the McCarthy Acres and Paran Acres developments, but suitable on-street parking is not available in those areas.

Hunting, fishing and trapping.  There are no plans at present to restrict hunting or fishing on the Property.  However, the Fund will restrict hunting if in its judgment this is in the best interest of public safety.  Users are strongly encouraged to contact the fund thefund@northbenningon.org if any safety problems are observed.  The Fund may restrict access to the shoreline in particular areas for purposes of vegetation and habitat management or if littering or destructive behavior is observed, but generally the public may fish during season from anywhere on the shoreline of the Property.  Trapping will only be allowed with the prior written permission of the Fund. 

It is not anticipated that any special management precautions will need to be taken to provide for sustainable fish and wildlife resources on the Property.

Sanitary facilities.  No sanitary facilities are planned.  It is estimated that most hikes on the trails of the Property will take less than two hours.  The maintenance and construction of sanitary facilities would likely be more disruptive to the conservation and use of the Property for public recreation than would the occasional walker relieving himself or herself in an area away from the trails.  The Fund does not intend to install litter barrels but reserves the right to do so if littering becomes a problem.

Reasonable rules of access and behavior by the public.  The Fund may limit or restrict public access to the Property to assure compliance with the requirements of the Conservation Easement, to protect natural habitats, or to protect the public health or safety.  The Fund may issue notices against trespass on the Property to particular individuals for this purpose, or may impose general restrictions on public access to particularly defined areas of the Property as necessary for these purposes.

 

V.        Amendments to the Management Plan.

 

This Plan may be amended from time to time, consistent with the terms and conditions of the Conservation Easement.  Any amendment must be approved in writing by both The Fund and by VLT.  Updated information about the Property will be posted from time to time at http://www.northbennington.org.

 

Dated at North Bennington, Vermont, this 14th day of January 2006.

 

The Fund for North Bennington, Inc.            

 

By:/s/__________________________

            Robert E. Woolmington, President

 


Exhibit A:  The Property. Click here for aerial photo with markings

Exhibit B:  Copy of Conservation Easement. (Not available in web version)

Exhibit C:  Map of existing trails on conserved land. Click here

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