Final Environmental Impact Report - Whittier Bridge/I-95 ...

Essential Fish Habitat Conservation Recommendations
The Merrimack River is designated as EFH under the MSA for a variety of federally managed
species including Atlantic salmon, winter flounder, pollock and Atlantic mackerel. As described
above, the proposed project would adversely affect EFH by filling subtidal habitats and
disrupting fish during the upstream migration period. We recommend pursuant to Section
305(b)(4)(A) of the MSA that you adopt the following EFH conservation recommendations:
I) All in-water work should take place within cofferdams as shown on the project plans.
The installation of the cofferdams should only be conductedone at a time, to minimize
noise and/or turbidity impacts.
2) From April I through June 30 of any year, at least one of the channels should remain
unobstructed at all times to minimize impacts to Atlantic salmon migration.
3) From April I through June 30 of any year, an observer should be present on-site at the
time of the installation of the cofferdams. If Atlantic salmon or other anadromous
species are observed in the work area, the in-water work should be delayed until they
have passed through. Prior to cofferdam installation, MassDOT should submit an
observer plan to us for approval.
Please note that Section 305(b)(4)(B) of the MSA requires you to provide us with a detailed
written response to these EFH conservation recommendations, including a description of adopted
measures for avoiding, mitigating or offsetting the impact of the project on EFH. In the case of
a response that is inconsistent with our recommendations, Section 305(b)(4)(B) of the MSA also
indicates that you must explain your reasons for not following our recommendations. Included
in such reasoning would be the scientific justification for any disagreements with us over the
anticipated effects of the proposed action and the measures needed to avoid, minimize, mitigate
or offset such effects pursuant to 50 CFR 600.920(k).
Please also note that a distinct and further EFH consultation must be reinitiated pursuant to 50
CFR 600.920(1) if new information becomes available or the project is revised in such a manner
that affects the basis for the above EFH conservation recommendations.
Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act Recommendations
In addition to the EFH provisions of the MSA, the FWCA requires federal agencies to consult
with resource agencies regarding activities that impact fish and wildlife resources. As
mentioned above, the Merrimack River is an important migratory corridor for anadromous fish
including alewife, blueback herring and American shad, which spawn in the upper reaches of the
watershed. Anadromous fish can be adversely affected by noise, turbidity and physical
obstructions which may disrupt passage, particularly during spring and fall migrations.
With the implementation of the above conservation recommendations to incorporate best
management practices during the bridge replacement activities, impacts to anadromous fish will
also be minimized.