HUDSON LAKE DIAGNOSTIC STUDY

Transcription

1 HUDSON LAKE DIAGNOSTIC STUDY PROJECT SITE: HUDSON LAKE LAPORTE COUNTY, INDIANA PREPARED FOR: HUDSON LAKE CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION 7405 EAST LAKE SHORE DRIVE NEW CARLISLE, INDIANA FUNDING PROVIDED BY: INDIANA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES LAKES AND RIVER ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM PREPARED BY: V3 COMPANIES 7325 JANES AVENUE WOODRIDGE, ILLINOIS JUNE 19, 2008

2 Executive Summary V3 Consultants, Ltd. performed a watershed diagnostic study for the Hudson Lake Conservation Association and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources on Hudson Lake in La Porte County, Indiana. This study was funded by the Hudson Lake Conservation Association and the Indiana Department of Natural Resource s Lake and River Enhancement Program. Hudson Lake occupies an area of approximately 432 acres at its legal level of The total watershed area tributary to Hudson Lake is approximately 5,170 acres. The primary tributary area to Hudson Lake includes several wetland areas and Saugany Lake, which overflow into Hudson Lake. Historically fluctuations in the lake levels have alternately been high enough to cause flood damage and low enough to limit access and recreational uses of the lake. In 1983, an outlet to the lake was installed in order to limit the high water levels and prevent further flood damages. During the course of this study (January 16, 2007) lake levels were recorded 3.3 feet below the legal level which corresponds to an area of approximately 366 acres. Water quality samples were collected from Hudson Lake and the Unnamed Tributary connecting Saugany Lake and Hudson Lake. The parameters analyzed during water quality sampling include total phosphorus, total nitrogen ammonia, dissolved oxygen, ph, alkalinity, transparency, turbidity, conductivity, oxidation-reduction potential, and temperature. Additionally, historical chemical data obtained from the IDEM were used to evaluate the chemical changes that occurred in the lake throughout the years. Water sample analysis from Hudson Lake and analysis of historic records suggest that Hudson Lake is consistently in an oligotrophic state. Oligotrophic lakes are relatively unusual compared to typical Indiana lakes and may present unique management strategies. This is partially due to the location of the lake in the upper portion of the watershed. In order to maintain the water quality of the lake, several lake management strategies should be employed such as limiting shoreline disturbance to control erosion and limiting pollutant inputs through best management practices. Water sample analysis from the intermittent unnamed tributary to Hudson Lake shows that it exceeds the state standard for E. coli, Total Phosphorus, and DO. All parameters measured are detectable. The lack of permanent flow can greatly affect levels such as temperature and DO. Other parameters, such as E. coli and Total Phosphorous are less dependant on water levels. While it is difficult to quantify the actual nutrient mass loading resulting from this inflow, this indicates that minimizing potential inflows from this water body may assist in attenuating nutrient loading impacts to Hudson Lake. The information gathered as part of this study were analyzed and interpreted so that recommendations could be made to improve the water quality within Hudson Lake and it s watershed. These watershed improvement recommendations include: 1. Watershed Best Management Practices for Agricultural Areas Many of the problems identified in the Diagnostic Study can be tied to non-point sources of pollution. To address these problems it is necessary to implement land use best management conservation practices. These Best Management Practices (BMPs) are behaviors, or ways of conducting business and using the land that are more environmentally friendly, and are often beneficial economically. Diagnostic Study V3 Companies Hudson Lake June 2008

3 Much of the agricultural land throughout the basin is located near the inflow ditches and wetland areas. Sheet flow over these areas and concentrated runoff can carry sediment and nutrients from farm fields into the adjacent streams and wetlands. There are many BMPs that address these non-point source issues, and many of them can be funded through programs offered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Subbasins W3, W4, and W5 (immediately to the south and west of Hudson Lake) were identified as the highest priority areas for watershed best management practices for agricultural areas. 2. Watershed Best Management Practices for Urban Areas As land uses change and become more urbanized, best management practices will become more important to control pollutants from these areas. Two subbasins, W6 and W7 (immediately north of Hudson Lake) were identified to implement watershed best management practices for urban areas. Several BMPs that individual homeowners and urban areas can employ to improve water quality have been identified in the diagnostic study. 3. High Capacity Well Feasibility Study It is recommended that a feasiblity study be conducted to evaluate the possibility of using high capacity wells to supplement lake levels. Based on this diagnostic study and conversations with watershed residents, the most significant watershed problem may be the declining water levels in Hudson Lake. This problem is not a result of water quality or ecology concerns, but rather is an aesthetic and recreational concern. Low lake levels can have an impact on recreational uses of the lake and may have impacts to the biological communites and chemical characteristics of the lake. Low lake levels may cause the disappearance of some typical vegetation. The water quality of the lake may also be affected by the lower levels with increased pollutant concentrations.. Diagnostic Study V3 Companies Hudson Lake June 2008

4 Hudson Lake Diagnostic Study Table of Contents 1.0 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS INTRODUCTION Project Purpose Objectives CURRENT WATERSHED CONDITIONS Location, Characteristics, and Size of the Hudson Lake Watershed Climate Soils and Geology Wetlands and Riparian Zones Regulatory Floodplain Regulated Drains Trends in Land Development Threatened and Endangered Species Significant Natural Areas and Unique Recreational Resources LAKE BIOASSESSMENT Chemical Analysis and Water Quality Macroinvertebrate Communities Physical Habitat Fish Communities Aquatic Plant Survey Nuisance Species WATER BUDGET LAKE SHORELINE SEDIMENTATION NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION WATERSHED MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS HUDSON LAKE DIAGNOSTIC STUDY PUBLIC MEETINGS REFERENCES 79 Diagnostic Study V3 Companies Hudson Lake June 2008

5 APPENDICES Appendix 1 Threatened and Endangered Species Correspondence Appendix 2 Sampling Station Photographs Appendix 3 Water Quality Data Sheets Appendix 4 Macroinvertebrate and Habitat Field Data Sheets and Photographs Appendix 5 Tier I Survey Data Sheets Appendix 6 Water Budget Calculations Appendix 7 Nonpoint Source Pollution Calculations Appendix 8 Lake Level, Ground Water and Climate Change Interaction LIST OF TABLES Table 1- Physical Characteristics of Hudson Lake Table 2 Historical Climate Data (NCDC Normals, LaPorte, Indiana, ) Table 3 Major Soil Associations in the Hudson Lake Watershed Table 4 Land Use in the Hudson Lake Watershed (NLCD 2001) Table 5 Threatened and Endangered Species from the Hudson Lake Watershed Table 6 Water Quality Characteristics of Hudson Lake Table 7 Plankton Species and Abundance Table 8 Water Quality Characteristics of the Unnamed Tributary to Hudson Lake Table 9 Scoring Criteria for mibi Table 10 V3 Macroinvertebrate Species List Table 11 Results from Macroinvertebrate Sampling on Tributary to Hudson Lake Table 12 Habitat Results from Tributary to Hudson Lake Table 13 Advisory Groups of the Indiana Fish Consumption Advisory Table 14 Fish Consumption Advisory Species List for Hudson Lake Watershed Table 15 - Bed 1 Composite Aquatic Plant Inventories Table 16 - Bed 2 Composite Aquatic Plant Inventories Table 17 - Bed 3 Composite Aquatic Plant Inventories Table 18 - Bed 4 Composite Aquatic Plant Inventories Table 19 - Bed 5 Composite Aquatic Plant Inventories Table 20 Lake Shoreline Survey at Hudson Lake, August 29, 2007 Table 21 Nonpoint Source Pollution Modeling Results Table 22 On-Farm Conservation Practices Supported by the USDA to Help Improve Water Quality Table 23 Potential Sources of Funding Table 24 Best Management Practices Pollutant Removal Efficiency Table 25 Best Management Practices for Urban Areas Diagnostic Study V3 Companies Hudson Lake June 2008

6 LIST OF EXHIBITS Exhibit 1 Project Vicinity Map Exhibit 2 USGS Topographic Map Exhibit 3 Hydrologic Unit Code Map Exhibit 4 Annual Precipitation Schematic Exhibit 5 Cross-Section AA Exhibit 6 Cross-Section CC Exhibit 7 LaPorte County Soil Survey Exhibit 8 Highly Erodible Soils Exhibit 9 Hydric Soils Exhibit 10 Septic Suitability Map Exhibit 11 National Wetlands Inventory Map Exhibit 12 Floodplain Map Exhibit 13 LaPorte County Regulated Drains Exhibit 14 Trends in Land Development Exhibit 15 Landuse Map Exhibit 16 Significant Natural Areas Exhibit 17 Unique Recreational Resources Exhibit 18 Macroinvertebrate Sampling Station Location Exhibit 19 Aquatic Plant Beds 2007 Tier I Sampling Exhibit 20 Hudson Lake Water Balance Exhibit 21 Hudson Lake Shoreline Exhibit Exhibit 22 Total Suspended Solids Exhibit 23 Total Phosphorus Exhibit 24 Total Nitrogen Exhibit 25 Prioritization Map Diagnostic Study V3 Companies Hudson Lake June 2008

7 1.0 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We would like to acknowledge Bill Companik and Steve Varela of the Hudson Lake Conservation Association for their assistance and involvement with the diagnostic study and public meetings. Public meetings were held on January 6, 2007 to introduce the project, and on May 24, 2008 to discuss the findings of the watershed diagnostic study. We would also like to acknowledge Gwen White and Jim Ray with IDNR s LARE program for guidance, review and comments. Diagnostic Study V3 Companies 1 Hudson Lake June 2008

8 2.0 INTRODUCTION Hudson Lake is located in the Northeast section of LaPorte County and is the largest lake located in the county. Its 432 acres of surface water provide for a variety of recreational uses for area residents (approximately 1,762 in the immediate area according to the US Bureau of the Census 2000). The lake has a small residential beach that provides for sunbathing and swimming and commercial and public road access facilities provide boat launch services for lake fishing, water skiing, boating, windsurfing, sailing and jet skiing. Other uses include snorkeling and scuba diving. Winter recreation focuses mainly on ice fishing, snowmobiling, and ice-skating. The watersheds that feed the lake originate mainly in the west and the water flows easterly to a horizontal passive drain located at the deep end of the lake at the lakes legal level on the Eastern shore. The Western end of the lake also contains a 5+ acre island that serves as firm ground for five lake homes and cottages. Access to the island is limited to the summer season with sufficient water to enable embarkation and disembarkation by boat. Winter access is provided only during January/February when the ice is of sufficient depth to safely cross the lakes surface. An aerial photo taken by the U.S. Geological Survey in 1998 (below) provides an outline of the lake, it s island located Central-Central West and tributary wetlands and ponds that feed off the lake (five such bodies mainly to the North and East of Hudson Lake). Hudson Lake aerial, April 12, 1998 USGS More recent satellite images demonstrate the effects of changing weather patterns affecting the lakes water quality (quantity, fish and plant life), recreational use (access to lake & island and lake related activities), and future (below). Diagnostic Study V3 Companies 2 Hudson Lake June 2008

9 Hudson Lake aerial, Spring 2005 Google From the period between 1998 and 2004, approximately 40% of the surface area has been lost due to lack of water while plant growth increased significantly in all areas including the previously clear Eastern shore. From the Spring of 2004 to the present, the entire western half of the surface area has been eliminated resulting in a further 10-20% reduction In lake surface area. The focus of our Modified Lake Diagnostic and Engineering Study is to evaluate the lake s condition and trends in the lake and it s subwatersheds. We are particularly interested in learning what effect if any the water levels play in relation to maintaining a high quality lake capable of serving its historical recreational uses. 2.1 Project Purpose V3 Companies, Ltd. (V3) has provided technical services to the Hudson Lake Conservation Association (HLCA) in conducting a modified lake diagnostic study of Hudson Lake in La Porte County, Indiana. The purpose of the study is to describe the current condition and historical trends of the Hudson Lake Watershed and its subwatershed components, and to recommend remedial strategies for watershed improvements. In addition, the causes of low levels within Hudson Lake were evaluated and an initial evaluation of the suitability of using high capacity wells to moderate the lake level fluctuations within Hudson Lake has been completed. 2.2 Objectives The Hudson Lake Diagnostic Study follows the guidelines suggested by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Lake and River Enhancement Program (LARE). The main objectives of this diagnostic study are as follows: Describe the current conditions and historical trends within the Hudson Lake watershed, Identify potential nonpoint source water quality problems, Diagnostic Study V3 Companies 3 Hudson Lake June 2008

10 Propose specific direction for future implementation of best management conservation practices, and Predict and assess success factors for future implementation projects. The study was conducted in four different phases. First, V3 collected and reviewed available historical data and previous work, water chemistry data, precipitation and evaporation data in La Porte County, and aerial and topographic maps. This information was crucial in understanding the historical and current state of Hudson Lake and its watershed. Second, V3 conducted lake survey events during which lake sampling and tributary sampling activities were conducted. Additionally, lake shoreline and streambank erosion data were collected and an evaluation of the lake s biological community was conducted. Third, a field survey was conducted that assisted in the delineation of the Hudson Lake watershed for the purposes of this diagnostic study. Land use information was also compiled in order to construct a land use map for the Hudson Lake watershed. The fourth phase involved the analysis and interpretation of data collected in the previous three phases of the study. Based on this assessment, recommendations were developed for improvement of conditions within the Hudson Lake Watershed. Diagnostic Study V3 Companies 4 Hudson Lake June 2008

11 3.0 CURRENT WATERSHED CONDITIONS 3.1 Location, Characteristics, and Size of the Hudson Lake Watershed Location and Physical Characteristics Hudson Lake is located near New Carlisle, in the northeast portion of La Porte County, Indiana (Section 28, Township 38 North, Range 1 West, New Carlisle Quadrangle, Exhibit 1 Project Vicinity Map, and Exhibit 2 USGS Topographic Map). The county boundary between La Porte and St. Joseph Counties runs between Hudson Lake and New Carlisle. Historically, the lake occupied an area of about 432 acres (0.68 square miles) with a maximum depth of 42 feet and an approximate volume of 5,060 ac-ft. Hudson Lake has been experiencing a decline in water levels over the past five years with the water level on January 16, 2007 measuring approximately 3.3 feet lower than the legal level of (based on field observations). At this elevation, the lake occupies an area of about 366 acres with a volume of approximately 4,280 ac-ft. The physical characteristics of Hudson Lake are summarized in Table 1. Table 1 Physical Characteristics of Hudson Lake Current Conditions Based on January 16, 2007 Historical Records Field Observations 3 Surface Area 432 acres acres Volume 5,060 ac-ft 1 4,280 ac-ft Maximum Depth 42 feet feet Total Hudson Lake Watershed Size 5,070 acres 1 5,170 acres 1 USGS Data Report Water Year Indiana Department of Environmental Management 3 Calculated values based on V3 data review and field observations Inflow/Outflow The primary tributary area to Hudson Lake includes several wetland areas and Saugany Lake, which overflow into Hudson Lake. In 1983, an outlet to the lake was installed. High water levels, resulting in property damage prompted the installation of the outlet. The USGS Topographic Map (Exhibit 2) illustrates that Hudson Lake drains to Taylor Ditch, which drains to Geyer Ditch, and eventually reaches the Kankakee River. However, the lake level has not reached this outlet for multiple years, leading to the conclusion that the lake system has an annual net loss to groundwater. Diagnostic Study V3 Companies 5 Hudson Lake June 2008

12 ± V3 Companies 7325 Janes Avenue Woodridge, IL phone fax TITLE: BASE LAYER: Project Vicinity Map N/A CLIENT: Hudson Lake Conservation Agency 7405 East Lake Shore Drive New Carlisle, IN PROJECT: Hudson Lake Diagnostic Study PROJECT NO. EXHIBIT: SHEET: OF: QUADRANGLE: DATE: SCALE: N/A 04/04/ NTS E:\2006\06213\Reports\Natural Resources\Wetland\Exhibits\Exhibit I Project Vicinity Map.mxd

13 ± V3 Companies 7325 Janes Avenue Woodridge, IL phone fax TITLE: BASE LAYER: CLIENT: USGS Topographic Map N/A Hudson Lake Conservation Agency 7405 East Lake Shore Drive New Carlisle, IN PROJECT: PROJECT NO.: EXHIBIT: SHEET: OF: Hudson Lake Diagnostic Study QUADRANGLE: DATE: SCALE: Lydick & New Carlisle /04/08 1"=3000' E:\2006\06213\Reports\Natural Resources\Wetland\Exhibits\Exhibit 2 USGS Topo.mxd

14 Legend Hudson Lake Watershed USGS Hydologic Unit Code-14 Subwatersheds ± V3 Companies 7325 Janes Avenue Woodridge, IL phone fax TITLE: BASE LAYER: CLIENT: Hydrologic Unit Code - 14 USGS Topographic Map Hudson Lake Conservation Agency 7405 East Lake Shore Drive New Carlisle, IN PROJECT: Hudson Lake Diagnostic Study PROJECT NO.: EXHIBIT: SHEET: OF: QUADRANGLE: DATE: SCALE: Lydick & New Carlisle /04/08 1"=3000' E:\2006\06213\Reports\Natural Resources\Wetland\Exhibits\Exhibit 3 Hydrologic Unit Code.mxd

15 Chemical Characteristics The water sampling parameters and analytical methods used for understanding the chemical characteristics of Hudson Lake and its tributary were consistent with those used under the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) sampling s program. Those parameters include total phosphorus, total nitrogen ammonia, dissolved oxygen, ph, alkalinity, transparency, turbidity, conductivity, oxidation-reduction potential, and temperature. Additionally, historical chemical data obtained from IDEM was used to evaluate the chemical changes that occurred in the lake throughout the years. The results of the current sampling and review of historical chemical parameters are presented in Section 4.0 Lake Bioassessment. Watershed Size Hudson Lake is located within the 14-digit Hydrologic Unit Code watershed as shown in Exhibit 3 (Hydrologic Unit Code Map). The total watershed area tributary to Hudson Lake is approximately 5,170 acres. The Hudson Lake watershed is divided into three subwatersheds: Upstream Depressional, Saugany Lake, and Hudson Lake. The Upstream Depressional subwatershed area is approximately 870 acres; the Saugany Lake subwatershed area is approximately 715 acres; and the Hudson Lake subwatershed area is approximately 3,585 acres. 3.2 Climate The Hudson Lake watershed is characterized by a humid continental climate, which is somewhat modified by the Great Lakes. This modification or lake effect can manifest itself by a moderation of temperature and increased precipitation. This is due to winds blowing over the lake and being influenced by water temperature in the lake and evaporation from the lake. This can have a cooling effect in these areas in the summer compared to other parts of the country, and can result in warmer temperatures in the winter months. Precipitation within the Hudson Lake watershed is well distributed throughout the year, and is adequate for most crops. The average daily maximum temperature in July is 82.7ºF, and the average daily minimum in January is 15.8ºF. Typical relative humidity is about 65% in the midafternoon. Humidity is higher in the evening and is approximately 80% at dawn. Using climate data from La Porte, Indiana, from , the average temperature during winter is around 26.2ºF with the average daily minimum being approximately 19ºF. The lowest temperature on record occurred on February 2, 1951 and again on January 20, 1985 and was -23ºF. In summer, the average temperature is about 71.5ºF with the average daily maximum temperature being around 81ºF. The highest temperature on record occurred on September 1, 1953 and was 104ºF. Crop growth is slowed early in the growing season by the frequent cool winds blowing over Lake Michigan. This can be important for fruit crops that need to blossom after the spring freezes are past to insure a good yield. Fall winds warmed by the waters of Lake Michigan prolong the growing season for crops grown in the region. The average growing season, using 32ºF as a daily minimum temperature, is approximately days. Diagnostic Study V3 Companies 9 Hudson Lake June 2008

16 Precipitation is generally well distributed throughout the year but is slightly lower in mid to late winter. Rainfall is moderately heavy and averages inches annually. The record rainfall based on data from occurred on August 28, 1978, and totaled 6.00 inches. Average annual snowfall is 63.4 inches. The record snowfall occurred on January 26, 1978, and totaled 19.5 inches. However, beginning in 1993 there has been a gradual decrease in the amount of precipitation falling in the area of La Porte occupied by the Hudson Lake Watershed. Exhibit 4 Annual Precipitation Schematic shows a graph of precipitation values with a 3-year moving average value line. The estimated precipitation range that is necessary to maintain water levels in the lake at or near the legal level is approximately 35.5 to 38 inches per year. Consecutive or closely spaced years of precipitation lower than this threshold range, historically show lake levels decreasing. Based on the analyzed precipitation data, the lack of precipitation appears to be the cause of the low lake levels within Hudson Lake. As shown in Exhibit 4, fluctuation in the lake s level over time has been extreme at times with the most significant drop in elevation since 1945 occurring in 1966 when lake levels dropped to approximately 760, and the most significant increase in elevation occurring in 1982 when lake levels reached approximately 766. An outlet from Hudson Lake was constructed in 1983 (prior to 1983 there was no defined outlet) in order to minimize damages caused by high water levels. Table 2 provides information on temperature and precipitation for the survey area as recorded at La Porte, Indiana for the period of 1971 to Table 2 Historical Climate Data (NCDC Normals, La Porte, Indiana, ) Maximum Temperature ( o F) Minimum Temperature ( o F) Mean Temperature ( o F) Mean Precipitation (in) Mean Snowfall (in) Month January February March April May June July August September October November December Monthly Mean N/A N/A Annual Total N/A N/A N/A Diagnostic Study V3 Companies 10 Hudson Lake June 2008

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18 3.3 Soils and Geology The landscape within the Hudson Lake watershed is the product of the Lake Michigan Lobe and Eastern Lobe of the Wisconsinan glacial event. The unconsolidated deposits in this region are part of the Valparaiso Moraine and are characterized by a broad till-capped area of subdued topography (Beaty, 1990). The surficial deposits north and west of Hudson Lake consist of a clay loam to silt loam till. Southwest of the Lake are intensely pitted outwash deposits, and to the south and east of the lake, the surficial geology is made up of outwash-fan deposits. This outwash fan is part of the Valparaiso Moraine Aquifer System, which is known to yield from 100 to 600 gallons per minute. This consists of both shallow and deep aquifers. This may be a possible location for high capacity wells to supplement water levels within Hudson Lake. Upon investigating the geology and hydrogeology of the area around Hudson Lake, using the IDNR water well database records, it was determined that there are two aquifer systems at Hudson Lake. The first is a shallow sand and gravel aquifer that supplies local groundwater flow towards the lake and the second is a deeper more conductive sand and gravel aquifer beneath the lake bottom. The two aquifer systems are separated by a thin stratigraphic layer of clay and silt mixed with gravel and sand. The lower aquifer is a regional system, which naturally has a higher conductivity. Cross sections are provided in Exhibits 5 and 6. The higher conductivity aquifer beneath creates a system that attracts water flow from the lower conductivity unit above. This downward type flow is only found at the bottom depths of the upper aquifer, which happens to be where the lake bottom is located. The lake s net loss to the groundwater makes the water balance sensitive and dependent on surface water to maintain water levels. Indiana bedrock formations have been assigned ages that place them in the Paleozoic Era. Paleozoic Era literally means old life, meaning the creatures living in that time period were many, but were not considered very advanced (Clark, 1980). Because of the thickness of the glacial till, little is seen of the bedrock surface in northern Indiana except in a few scattered quarries. Within the Hudson Lake Watershed, the bedrock consists of Devonian and Mississippian Ellsworth Shale. This Shale has limestone or dolomite lenses in the upper part, and variable colored shale units in the lower regions. Ground water potential at this depth is not known since major aquifer systems are available in the unconsolidated glacial deposits overlying this shale bedrock system and it has not therefore been necessary to investigate water availability in the bedrock system. Parent materials are the unconsolidated mass in which a soil forms. In the Hudson Lake watershed, this material was deposited by glaciers or by meltwater as the glaciers retreated. The dominant parent materials in the basin were deposited as glacial till, outwash deposits, lacustrine deposits, alluvium, and organic material (Furr, 1982). Although these materials are of common origin, their properties may vary greatly from field to field. In addition, some of the material has been re-worked and re-deposited by the action of wind and water over time. Diagnostic Study V3 Companies 12 Hudson Lake June 2008

19 Elevation (ft) Cross Section AA Vertical Exaggeration ± Distance (m) V3 Companies 7325 Janes Avenue Woodridge, IL phone fax TITLE: BASE LAYER: CLIENT: Cross-Section AA N/A Hudson Lake Conservation Association 7405 East Lake Shore Drive New Carlisle, IN PROJECT: Hudson Lake Diagnostic Study PROJECT NO.: EXHIBIT: SHEET: 1 OF: 1 QUADRANGLE: DATE: SCALE: Lydick & New Carlisle 04/04/08 NTS

20 Elevation (ft) Distance (m) V3 Companies 7325 Janes Avenue Woodridge, IL phone fax TITLE: BASE LAYER: CLIENT: Cross Section CC Vertical Exaggeration Cross-Section CC N/A Hudson Lake Conservation Association 7405 East Lake Shore Drive New Carlisle, IN PROJECT: 6000 Hudson Lake Diagnostic Study PROJECT NO.: EXHIBIT: SHEET: 1 OF: 1 QUADRANGLE: DATE: SCALE: Lydick & New Carlisle 04/04/08 NTS ±

21 There are hundreds of different soil types throughout Indiana based on their unique characteristics. Each county arranges these soil types by like characteristics into groups, or major Soil Associations. These soil associations can provide a guide to the soils in the county for general uses; however the soils in any one map unit can differ in slope, depth, drainage, and other characteristics that affect management and may not be suitable for small scale projects (such as field management, construction projects, etc.) without further soils investigation. Of the nine major soil associations found in La Porte County, only two are found within the Hudson Lake watershed. These major soil associations are listed in Table 3 along with their general characteristics, the percentage located within the county, and their use. A comprehensive map of soil types throughout the Hudson Lake watershed may be found on Exhibit 7. Table 3 Soil Association Tracy- Chelsea Riddles Major Soil Associations in the Hudson Lake Watershed (NRCS Soil Survey, La Porte County) County Characteristics Coverage Nearly level to very steep, well drained and excessively drained soils that formed in loamy and sandy outwash and eolian material 31% Nearly level to very steep, well drained soils that formed in loamy glacial till 7% Use Mostly used for cultivated farm crops and specialty crops. Soils are suitable for trees and poorly suited to sanitary facilities Used mainly for woodland and pasture and some orchards. Suitable for cultivated crops, trees, and fairly well suited for sanitary facilities Highly Erodible Soils Exhibit 8 shows the soils within the Hudson Lake watershed that are considered highly erodible or potentially highly erodible. These soils are especially susceptible to the erosional forces of wind and water. Approximately 1,518 acres (33%) of the soils in the Hudson Lake watershed are considered to be in this category. Erosion increases not only sedimentation of the water but is also a source for nutrient impairments. Although erosion cannot be prevented, the effects can be moderated so that it does not diminish the productive capacity of the soil or result in excessive sedimentation in rivers, streams, and lakes throughout the watershed. In addition, the use of no-till or reduced till farming practices (conservation tillage) can be used to help reduce soil erosion. Based on the 2007 Indiana Cropland Tillage Transect Survey, no-till corn increased in the State of Indiana from 19% (2004) to 27% (2007) and soybeans went from 61% (2004) to 69% (2007). However, in La Porte County, no-till bean practices decreased from 53% (2004) to 37% (2007), while no-till corn practices increased from 7% (2004) to 18% (2007), based on percentage. Diagnostic Study V3 Companies 15 Hudson Lake June 2008

22 ± RlF BaA Hh RlC2 Hh PeRlB2 RlC2 RlD2 RlC2 BaA RlF RlB2 RlB2 Ua BaAHh Hh Wh Ua Pe RlB2 BaA RlB2 Hh BaA Hh BaA RlC2RlD2 Wh BaA BaA RlB2 RlF RlC2 RlB2Hm W RlD2 Wh Hh Pe RlB2 RlC2 BaA RlB2 RlD2 RlD2 Pe Hh Hm RlA Pe BaA TcB RlD2 Hh BaA RlC2 RlD2 TcB WeBaA BaA Hh RlF RlC2 RlC2 RlC2 RlD2 RlC2 RlD2 Hh RlB2 RlC2 Hh Hh BaA MrB2 RlC2 Wh BaA RlC2 Hm RlC2 RlD2RlC2 BaA WhRlD2 RlA RlB2 RlC2 Hh Wh Wh RlB2 RlB2 Hm RlC2 RlC2 BaA RlB2 Pe Wh BaA TcC2 HaA BaA Pe Wh RlB2 TcB Hh BaA Wh RlA RlA Hm BaA Wh RlD2 Wh Wh W RlC2 Wh TcB Wh Pe WhRlB2 RlC2 RlC2 RlC2 RlB2 RlB2 RlB2 Hm RlB2 RlB2 RlB2 Hm Hh Wh Hk Wh HmRlC2 TcB Hm Hh TcB RlC2 RlB2 TcD2 Wh RlC2 Wh Hm BaA TcC2 TcB Wh W Wh TcA RlA Ua RlB2 TcC2 CoA RlA RlB2 TcC2 RlB2 Ua TcC2 Hm RlB2 RlA Hh HaA W RlB2 RlA Hm CoA Tr Hh TcB Wh TcB TcB BaA RlB2 BaA TcC2 Wh TcC2 RlB2 Wh Hh BaA RlB2 TcF TcB Pe RlC2 TcD2 TcC2 Wh TcC2 TcD2 RlB2 TcF TcD2 TcB TcF TcC2 TcC2 TcF RlB2 Wh TcC2 TcA TcB RlC2 TcB TcC2 TcD2 TcD2 Wh Hh TcA TcC2 Tr CoB TcB TcC2 Wh Br TcC2 TcD2 Hh TcB Wh Tr TcB TcC2 TcB TcB TcD2 Gf TcD2 Br TcC2 TcB Tr ChC TcA W TcD2 Wh TcD2 TcA Br Qu TcD2 Ph TcD2 TcA TcC2 CoB TcC2 TcC2 TcC2 TcB TcC2 TcB Hh TcB TcB TcA Hh Wh RlB2 Hh TcA TcB WhTcD2 RlC2 TcC2 TcC2 TcB TcFTcC2 TcD2 TcC2 TcD2 TcB TcA Hh TcB Wh Wh Tr TcB HhTcC2 Tr TcC2 TcB TcA TcA TcB Pa Tr Tr TcD2 Hh TcD2Tr Tr TcC2 TcBTr Tr RlA Legend RlB2 TcA Tr EsB Water ( acres) Soils (4, acres) V3 Companies 7325 Janes Avenue Woodridge, IL phone fax TITLE: BASE LAYER: CLIENT: LaPorte County Soil Survey USGS Topographic Map Hudson Lake Conservation Agency 7405 East Lake Shore Drive New Carlisle, IN PROJECT: Hudson Lake Diagnostic Study PROJECT NO.: EXHIBIT: SHEET: OF: QUADRANGLE: DATE: SCALE: Lydick & New Carlisle /04/08 1"=3000' E:\2006\06213\Reports\Natural Resources\Wetland\Exhibits\Exhibit 7 Soils.mxd

23 Legend Hudson Lake Watershed Water ( acres) HEL (1, acres) ± ChC - Chelsea fine sand MrB2 - Morley silt loam RlC2 - Riddles loam RlD2 - Riddles loam RlF - Riddles loam TcC2 - Tracy sandy loam TcD2 - Tracy sandy loam TcF - Tracy sandy loam V3 Companies 7325 Janes Avenue Woodridge, IL phone fax TITLE: BASE LAYER: CLIENT: Highly Erodible Soils USGS Topographic Map Hudson Lake Conservation Agency 7405 East Lake Shore Drive New Carlisle, IN PROJECT: Hudson Lake Diagnostic Study PROJECT NO.: EXHIBIT: SHEET: OF: QUADRANGLE: DATE: SCALE: Lydick & New Carlisle /04/08 1"=3000' E:\2006\06213\Reports\Natural Resources\Wetland\Exhibits\Exhibit 8 HELs.mxd

24 Hydric Soils Soils that remain saturated or inundated with water for a sufficient length of time become hydric through a series of chemical, physical, and biological processes. Once a soil takes on hydric characteristics, it retains those characteristics even after the soil is drained. Approximately 1,040 acres or 20% of the soils in the Hudson Lake watershed are considered hydric (Exhibit 9). However, a large majority of these soils have been drained for either agricultural production or urban development. This information can be used to consider locations for possible wetland creation or enhancement. Septic Tank Suitability In rural areas, households usually depend on septic tank absorption fields. These waste treatment systems require soil characteristics and geology that allow gradual seepage of wastewater into the surrounding soils. Seasonal high water tables, shallow compact till and coarse soils present limitations for septic systems. While system design can often overcome these limitations (i.e. perimeter drains, mound systems or pressure distribution), sometimes the soil characteristics prove to be unsuitable for any type of septic system. Heavy clay soils require larger (and therefore more expensive) absorption fields; while sandier, well-drained soils are often suitable for smaller, more affordable gravity-flow trench systems. The septic disposal system is considered failing when the system exhibits one or more of the following: The system refuses to accept sewage at the rate of design application, thereby interfering with the normal use of plumbing fixtures, Effluent discharges exceed the absorptive capacity of the soil, resulting in ponding, seepage, or other discharge of the effluent to the ground surface or to surface waters, or Effluent is discharged from the system causing contamination of a potable water supply, ground water, or surface water. In Indiana, prior to 1990, residential homes on ten acres or more of land, and at least 1,000 feet from a neighboring residence, did not have to comply with any septic system regulations. A new septic code in 1990 fixed this loophole, but many of these homes still do not have functioning septic systems. The septic effluent from many of these older homes discharges into field tiles and eventually flows to open ditches and waterways. Unfortunately, the high cost of septic repair (typically from $4,000 to $15,000) has been an impediment to modernization. Exhibit 10 is a map of soil classes related to septic suitability within the watershed. Soils labeled very limited indicate that the soil has at least one feature that is unfavorable for septic systems. There are approximately 3,319 acres (64%) of very limited soils within the Hudson Lake watershed. Soils labeled somewhat limited indicate that the soils have features that are moderately favorable for septic systems. There are approximately 1,330 acres (26%) of somewhat limited soils within the watershed. Approximately 524 acres (10%) of the soils within the watershed are not rated. These soils have not been assigned a rating class because it is not industry standard to install a septic system in these geographic locations. Diagnostic Study V3 Companies 18 Hudson Lake June 2008

25 A failing septic system s effect on the environment can be difficult to measure. It is estimated that each failing septic system can discharge more than 76,650 gallons of untreated wastewater per year (Lee, Jones, and Peterson 2005). Untreated wastewater contains excessive nutrients that can impair surface water and groundwater. One of the most critical factors in septic system performance is the type of soils where the system is located. Since the majority of the soils in the Hudson Lake watershed (64%) are very limited, excessive nutrients in surface water and groundwater may indicate that failing septic systems are located within the watershed. There are no records available to pinpoint the location of specific failing septic systems in the Hudson Lake watershed. However, the LaPorte County Health Department On-Site Sewage System Section maintains records for new construction and repairs to older septic systems. Diagnostic Study V3 Companies 19 Hudson Lake June 2008

26 Legend Water ( acres) Hydric Soils ( acres) Gf - Gilford fine sandy loam ± Hh - Histosols and Aquolls Hm - Houghton muck Pa - Palms muck Pe - Pewamo silty clay loam Ph - Pinhook loam Qu - Quinn loam We - Warners silt loam Wh - Washtenaw silt loam Hudson Lake Watershed V3 Companies 7325 Janes Avenue Woodridge, IL phone fax TITLE: BASE LAYER: CLIENT: Hydric Soils USGS Topographic Map Hudson Lake Conservation Agency 7405 East Lake Shore Drive New Carlisle, IN PROJECT: Hudson Lake Diagnostic Study PROJECT NO.: EXHIBIT: SHEET: OF: QUADRANGLE: DATE: SCALE: Lydick & New Carlisle /04/08 1"=3000' E:\2006\06213\Reports\Natural Resources\Wetland\Exhibits\Exhibit 9 Hydric Soils.mxd

27 ± Legend Very Limited (3, acres) Somewhat Limited (1, acres) Not Rated ( acres) V3 Companies 7325 Janes Avenue Woodridge, IL phone fax TITLE: BASE LAYER: CLIENT: Septic Suitability Map USGS Topographic Map Hudson Lake Conservation Agency 7405 East Lake Shore Drive New Carlisle, IN PROJECT: Hudson Lake Diagnostic Study PROJECT NO.: EXHIBIT: SHEET: OF: QUADRANGLE: DATE: SCALE: Lydick & New Carlisle /04/08 1"=3000' E:\2006\06213\Reports\Natural Resources\Wetland\Exhibits\Exhibit 10 Septic Suitability.mxd

28 3.4 Wetlands and Riparian Zones Of the total land area in the Hudson Lake Watershed, approximately 886 acres (17% of the total watershed area) are wetlands according to the National Wetland Inventory (NWI). Approximately 443 acres of the NWI identified wetlands are considered lacustrine and 443 acres are considered palustrine. The locations of the wetlands are shown in Exhibit 11. Wetlands provide numerous valuable functions that are necessary for the health of the Watershed. They play a critical role in protecting and moderating water quality. Water quality is improved through a combination of filtering and stabilizing processes. Wetland vegetation adjacent to waterways and lakes help to stabilize slopes and prevent mass wasting, thus reducing the sediment load within the river or lake system. An unprotected streambank or shoreline can easily erode, which results in an increase of sediment and nutrients entering the water. Additionally, wetland vegetation removes pollutants through the natural filtration that occurs, or by absorption and assimilation. This effective treatment of nutrients and physical stabilization leads to an increase in overall water quality to downstream reaches. In addition, wetlands have the ability to increase stormwater detention capacity, increase stormwater attenuation, and moderate low flows. These benefits help to reduce flooding and erosion. Wetlands also facilitate groundwater recharge by allowing water to seep slowly into the ground, thus replenishing underlying aquifers. This groundwater recharge is also valuable to wildlife during the summer months when precipitation is low and the base flow of the river draws on the surrounding groundwater table. Although wetlands occupy a small percentage of the surrounding landscape, these areas typically contain large percentages of wildlife and produce more flora and fauna per acre than other ecosystems. As a result of this high diversity, wetlands provide many recreational opportunities, such as fishing, hunting, boating, hiking, and bird watching. 3.5 Regulatory Floodplain Flooding is one of the most common hazards in the United States. Floods can occur on a local level, or can affect entire river basins. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has developed Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) for many parts of the country in order for individuals and governments to assess the risk of flooding in specific areas. These maps also indicate what insurance rates property owners may need to pay to develop property in these areas. The Hudson Lake watershed is located on FEMA FIRM Panel C (Revision Date: June 4, 1996). There are no special flood hazard areas on this panel. Currently, the IDNR Division of Water (DNR-DOW), in conjunction with FEMA, is in the process of updating the floodplain mapping throughout the State. The La Porte County study is in progress with preliminary maps scheduled to be released in In 2004, DNR-DOW created interim digital FIRMs for the State. Exhibit 12 shows the regulatory floodplain in the vicinity of Hudson Lake. Diagnostic Study V3 Companies 22 Hudson Lake June 2008

29 Legend Palustrine Wetlands ± Lacustrine Wetlands Hudson Lake Watershed V3 Companies 7325 Janes Avenue Woodridge, IL phone fax TITLE: BASE LAYER: CLIENT: National Wetlands Inventory Map USGS Topographic Map Hudson Lake Conservation Agency 7405 East Lake Shore Drive New Carlisle, IN PROJECT: Hudson Lake Diagnostic Study PROJECT NO.: EXHIBIT: SHEET: OF: QUADRANGLE: DATE: SCALE: Lydick & New Carlisle /04/08 1"=3000' E:\2006\06213\Reports\Natural Resources\Wetland\Exhibits\Exhibit 11 NWI.mxd

30 ± Legend Hudson Lake Watershed Floodplains 1 PCT FUTURE CONDITIONS (0 acres) A (0 acres) AE (0 acres) AH (0 acres) AO (0 acres) X (0 acres) V3 Companies 7325 Janes Avenue Woodridge, IL phone fax TITLE: BASE LAYER: CLIENT: Floodplain Map USGS Topographic Map Hudson Lake Conservation Agency 7405 East Lake Shore Drive New Carlisle, IN PROJECT: Hudson Lake Diagnostic Study PROJECT NO.: EXHIBIT: SHEET: OF: QUADRANGLE: DATE: SCALE: Lydick & New Carlisle /04/08 1"=6000' E:\2006\06213\Reports\Natural Resources\Wetland\Exhibits\Exhibit 12 Floodplain_new.mxd

31 3.6 Regulated Drains Regulated drains consist of creeks, ditches, tiles (underground pipe systems), and other structures intended to move runoff water. There are three regulated drains within the Hudson Lake watershed. Exhibit 13 shows the approximate location of these regulated drains. Regulated drains are under the jurisdiction of the local county drainage board and the County Surveyor s office. Indiana statue IC contains the County Drainage Code, which authorizes this regulation of the drains to the county drainage board. The intent of the County Drainage Code is to provide hydraulic efficiency to control flooding and ponding through maintenance and construction activities within the regulated drains. Funding is available for maintenance and reconstruction of the regulated drains that are not functioning properly and/or have significant erosion and stabilization issues. If it is determined that modification of any of these regulated drains would be required for improvement of water quality within Hudson Lake, approval would be required from the county drainage board. Drainage areas that were not identified as regulated drains during this study may be regulated at the time of improvement activities, therefore the County Surveyor should be notified of any activities in drainage areas that are currently or could potentially become regulated drains. The regulated drain entering Hudson Lake from the west was the only intermittent tributary that possessed surface water and could be used for gathering water quality information. The adjacent photograph shown herein is from the regulated drain entering Hudson Lake from the north. This intermittent tributary did not possess surface water which could be sampled during the study, even during storm flow conditions. The drainage way did not have a defined bed or banks. Water is entering Hudson Lake from other subwatersheds predominantly through groundwater flow. Residents commented during the public meetings that springs had been present on the west side of Hudson Lake when the island had been surrounded by water. Now that the island is no longer surrounded by water, the locations of the springs are no longer providing water. It is assumed that the declining water level elevations in Hudson Lake are directly related to the elevations in the groundwater table, however, there is no recorded data set to support this conclusion. Diagnostic Study V3 Companies 25 Hudson Lake June 2008

32 3.7 Trends in Land Development Many of the metropolitan areas across the country and in Indiana are experiencing extraordinary growth rates. Between 2000 and 2006, the average population increase for the State was approximately 3.8%. However, La Porte County only saw an increase of 0.3% in population during the same time period. Exhibit 14 shows the changes in population from 1990, 2000, and 2006 within the Hudson Lake watershed. The Hudson Lake watershed consists of approximately 5,170 acres of mixed landuse (Table 4, and Exhibit 15). The Hudson Lake watershed is divided into three subwatersheds: Upstream Depressional, Saugany Lake, and Hudson Lake. Landuse for each of these subwatersheds is also shown in Table 4, and will be referred to in discussions of water quality and pollutant loading analysis. Based on the National Land Cover Database 2001 (NCLD 2001), the three predominant land uses in the Hudson Lake watershed are cultivated crops (29.0%), forests (25.8%), and pasture/hay (10.7%). Developed area only accounts for 17.1% of the total watershed area. Land use in the Upstream Depressional subwatershed, like the overall watershed, is primarily farmland, forest, and pasture/hay use. Only 8.2% of the subwatershed is developed into residential use. Residential development makes up 25.9% of the Saugany Lake subwatershed land use, accounting for the largest percentage of developed area of the three subwatersheds. A large percentage of undeveloped land includes cultivated crops and forest land. Saugany Lake itself accounts for 10.1% of the subwatershed area. Land use within the Hudson Lake subwatershed consists of 17.4% developed area and approximately 54.7% forested and cultivated land. Hudson Lake accounts for 10.5% of the area. Summary Comparing an aerial photograph of the area immediately adjacent to Hudson Lake from 1996 (provided in Appendix 8) with aerial photographs from 2003 indicates that land use within the Hudson Lake watershed has not significantly changed within the last 10 years. However, slightly higher concentrations of development are apparent in the 2003 aerial. Land use data from the National Land Cover Database from 1999 also supports this finding. Between the 1999 data and the 2001 data, developed land increased approximately 11% (from 6.1% to 17.1%) and cultivated land increases approximately 4.5% (from 24.5% to 29.0%). To account for the increases in certain types of land use, decreases must be seen in others. The most significant decrease from the 1999 data to the 2001 data was pasture which decreased approximately 14.5% (from 25.2% to 10.7%). Some of these changes may be attributed to different methodology between the data sets; however overall the data and photographs support the general trend of a slowly changing watershed. As more areas are urbanized and cultivated areas decrease, a change in the type and amount of nonpoint source pollution may be seen. Section 7.0 describes the calculations involved with establishing expected pollutant loads based on land use. Diagnostic Study V3 Companies 26 Hudson Lake June 2008

33 Legend Regulated Drains ± Hudson Lake Watershed V3 Companies 7325 Janes Avenue Woodridge, IL phone fax TITLE: BASE LAYER: CLIENT: LaPorte County Regulated Drains USGS Topographic Map Hudson Lake Conservation Agency 7405 East Lake Shore Drive New Carlisle, IN PROJECT: Hudson Lake Diagnostic Study PROJECT NO.: EXHIBIT: SHEET: OF: QUADRANGLE: DATE: SCALE: Lydick & New Carlisle /04/08 1"=3000' E:\2006\06213\Reports\Natural Resources\Wetland\Exhibits\Exhibit 13 Legal Drains.mxd