Minute Man National Historical Park - Water Quality

Minute Man National Historical Park by National Parks Service

Minute Man National Historical Park (park) has numerous surface waters including Elm Brook, Mill Brook, several ponds, approximately 200 acres of wetlands, and the Concord River. A 1996 "Baseline Water Quality Data Inventory and Analysis" determined the Concord River and its tributaries within or adjacent to the park occasionally exceed EPA water-quality criteria for dissolved oxygen, pH, and dissolved copper. Total coliform and fecal coliform concentrations exceeded WRD screening limits for freshwater bathing. In addition, the Concord River is listed on Massachusetts' State 303(d) List from the confluence of the Assabet and Sudbury Rivers to Billerica, which includes the section of the river that flows through the park's North Bridge Unit. Pollutants of concern noted on the 303(d) list are metals, nutrients, and pathogens. The State is expected to update the 303(d) list in October 2002, at which time waters may be added or removed.

Factors affecting water quality at the park include road runoff and agricultural practices, as well as residential developments and historical actions that resulted in accumulations of metals in the Sudbury River.

A Level 1 Water Quality Inventory covering perennial rivers and streams, permanent ponds, and other significant waters at the park recently was completed and is under review. When complete, this document will aid in determining the overall status of water quality at the park.