Natural Resources Chapter of the Master Plan - Town of Wolfeboro

Natural Resources Chapter, Wolfeboro, NH
years, maintaining the same appearance year after year. These wetlands are usually dominated by
perennial plants.
The Forested Wetland Class is characterized by woody vegetation that is 6m (20ft) tall or taller.
Forested wetlands are most common where moisture is relatively abundant, particularly along
rivers and in the mountains.
The Scrub-Shrub Wetland Class includes areas dominated by woody vegetation less that 6m tall.
The species include true shrubs, young trees, and trees or shrubs that are small or stunted because
of environmental conditions. Scrub-shrub wetlands may represent a successional stage leading to
forested wetland, or they may be relatively stable communities.
5.2 LOCAL WETLAND STUDIES
Two wetland studies have been performed for the Town of Wolfeboro. In 1980, Ray Lobdell
completed the first wetland study, updating it in 1988. The second report was created by Barry
Keith in 1996, titled Wetland Evaluation, Wolfeboro New Hampshire. These studies evaluated
and inventoried Wolfeboro‟s wetlands, and identified important wetlands which resulted in the
designation of a few selected wetlands as “Prime Wetlands” in accordance with state legislation
and discussed in more detail in Section 5.3.
Wetland complexes of special significance identified as a result of these studies are described
below.
Warren Brook
This wetland and Heath and Ryefield Brooks serves as one of the major tributaries to Lake
Wentworth. This large and uniquely rich wetland habitat is located in the eastern side of Lake
Wentworth and is bisected by the Wolfeboro-Brookfield town line. The hydrologic value
coupled with the unique flora and fauna, food chain production, historic importance and aesthetic
and recreational value makes this wetland a particularly important critical resource for
Wolfeboro and the Lakes Region.
Batson Pond
Batson Pond Wetland Complex is a relatively small area located in northernmost portion of
Wolfeboro. This area is bordered to the east and south by Route 28 to the SW and by Pork Hill
Rd., and to the NE and NW by the Ossipee-Wolfeboro town line. The overall remoteness and
high aesthetic character of this area makes this wetland-pond complex highly desirable for
recreation and education. Also historically this area was a farming community prior to the turn of
the century. Food chain production, wildlife habitat, and unique rich vegetation makes this
wetland exceptionally important.
Natural Resources Inventory, Wolfeboro, NH 14