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MS4 Visual Stream Assessment

Black Branch 2

City of Lebanon, TN · 53 scenes assessed · Captured Mar 4, 2026
USDA SVAP · EPA RBP · TDEC MS4 permit standards
Corridor health
5.2
Fair · 0 to 10 scale
Outfalls observed
0
0 possible illicit discharges
Urgent scenes
4
of 53 assessed
30 ft buffer
6%
of scenes at the TDEC minimum

How to read this assessment. Scores, ratings and scene notes are visual evidence candidates for your field verification, not compliance findings. Each one points to a place worth a site visit; confirm conditions in the field before any enforcement, permit or restoration decision.

Stream Score
Good (7-10)
Fair (4-6)
Poor (0-3)
Component Averages
Channel 6.1/10
Banks 5.1/10
Riparian 4.3/10
Habitat 4.0/10
Water Quality 5.8/10
Priority Action Areas
Scene 24 3.5 / 10 Immediate
channelization, sedimentation, riparian loss, bank erosion
Black Branch at this location (Scene #24) is severely impaired, primarily due to illegal dumping of construction and demolition concrete debris in the channel and along the left bank. The natural substrate has been completely replaced by broken concrete slabs, eliminating pool-riffle morphology and degrading macroinvertebrate and fish habitat. A red metal agricultural barn is located within 20-30 feet of the channel on the left bank, well within the TDEC minimum 30-foot riparian buffer, and the left bank buffer is functionally absent. The right bank maintains a reasonable wooded hillside buffer. Invasive shrubs (likely bush honeysuckle) are colonizing the understory. This reach requires enforcement action regarding the concrete dumping and a comprehensive restoration plan to remove debris and restore natural channel function.
Scene 22 3.8 / 10 Short term, 1-6 months
sedimentation, channelization, riparian loss, other
Black Branch at Scene 22 is a severely degraded headwater stream flowing through an agricultural landscape in Wilson County, TN. The channel bed has been filled with concrete rubble/construction debris, eliminating natural substrate and destroying aquatic habitat. The left bank riparian buffer is critically deficient (under 10 feet) due to encroachment by an agricultural storage shed and gravel driveway, while the right bank is dominated by invasive shrubs (likely bush honeysuckle or privet). Water quality indicators are fair, with no obvious contamination, but the absence of functional habitat renders the reach nearly devoid of ecological value. Key MS4 compliance concerns include potential unpermitted fill material in the stream channel, a green hose/tubing of unknown purpose, and failure to meet minimum 30-foot riparian buffer requirements.
Scene 38 4.8 / 10 Short term, 1-6 months
riparian loss, sedimentation, bank erosion
Black Branch at scene #38 is a small headwater stream in poor condition, primarily impaired by the near-complete absence of riparian buffer on the right bank where mowed residential lawn extends to the channel edge. The stream is very narrow (3-4 feet), extremely shallow (under 1 inch), and flows over exposed limestone bedrock with minimal habitat diversity. No large woody debris, no pools, and very limited fish or macroinvertebrate habitat are present. While water quality appears acceptable with no evidence of pollution, the severely degraded riparian zone and instream habitat represent the primary limiting factors. Riparian buffer restoration on the right bank is the highest priority management action.
Scene 30 5.5 / 10 Short term, 1-6 months
riparian loss, bank erosion, sedimentation
Black Branch at this location is a small headwater stream with a bedrock (limestone) substrate flowing through an agricultural/pastoral landscape in Wilson County, Tennessee. The stream is in marginal condition, primarily limited by inadequate riparian buffers on both banks, limited instream habitat diversity, and evidence of recent vegetation clearing within the buffer zone. Water quality appears fair with slightly turbid but generally clear flow. The bedrock-controlled channel provides some natural resistance to geomorphic degradation, but the thin riparian corridor fails to meet TDEC 30ft minimum buffer requirements and compromises multiple ecological functions. No stormwater outfalls or illicit discharges were observed at this rural location.
Scene 51 3.2 / 10 Medium term, 6-12 months
channelization, sedimentation, riparian loss, barriers
Scene 51 captures a concrete box culvert road crossing near the end of Black Branch 251. The stream passes through an approximately 8-10 foot wide by 5-6 foot tall cast-in-place concrete box culvert with moderate sediment deposition on the floor and shallow turbid flow. The culvert completely eliminates all natural channel, habitat, and riparian functions at this location. The structure is in fair condition with minor weathering, algae/moss growth on lower walls, and orange-brown mineral staining. While the water quality appears acceptable (no evidence of illicit discharge, contamination, or severe nutrient enrichment), the habitat value is essentially zero within the culvert. This is a critical point of habitat fragmentation that may impede fish passage during low flow conditions. For MS4 compliance, the culvert weepholes should be monitored during dry weather screening, and sediment accumulation should be periodically assessed for maintenance needs.

Scene by scene

Every assessed scene, view by view

Showing 20 of 53 assessed scenes · Page 2 of 3

Filters:
Scene #20 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment MARGINAL
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front W 281°
Right
Right N 11°
Back
Back E 101°
Left
Left S 191°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a very narrow channel with minimal water flow is visible winding through exposed rocky substrate. A structure with a red/orange roof is visible in the background on the left bank, partially obscured by bare deciduous trees. Large fallen tree trunk and woody debris are prominent on the right side of the channel. Right The right bank (left bank when facing downstream) shows a moderately steep wooded hillside with bare deciduous trees and dense understory of dormant vines and shrubs. A large fallen/leaning tree trunk crosses diagonally through the view. The ground is covered with leaf litter and some early green herbaceous growth. No water or channel is visible from this angle. Back Looking upstream, the narrow channel continues with exposed rocky substrate and very shallow water. A prominent tree trunk stands in the center of view. Through the bare trees, an open agricultural field is visible in the distance on the left side (right bank when facing downstream). The channel bed shows flat rock pieces and cobble with water visible between rocks. Left The left bank (right bank when facing downstream) shows a narrow riparian buffer of bare deciduous trees and one prominent eastern red cedar/pine giving way to a large open agricultural field in the background. The field appears to be fallow or recently harvested with brown/tan exposed soil visible. Farm equipment (red-colored) is visible in the distant field. The riparian buffer is very narrow here, perhaps 25-50 feet wide.
Scene #21 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment MARGINAL
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front W 261°
Right
Right N 351°
Back
Back E 81°
Left
Left S 171°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a very narrow channel (2-4 ft wide) winds through a thin riparian corridor toward a small red-roofed structure/building. The stream bed is dominated by flat, angular limestone/rock slabs with very shallow water flowing over them. Agricultural fields are visible to the left beyond the thin tree line. A green garden hose or similar tubing is visible crossing the stream bed. Right Looking toward the right bank (left bank when facing downstream), dense dormant vegetation including shrubs and tangled vines rises on a moderate slope. A large decaying log is visible at the base of the bank. Several scattered rocks and a few evergreen trees (cedar/pine) are visible through the bare deciduous canopy. The bank rises moderately with thick understory vegetation. Back Looking upstream, the channel is visible with very shallow water flowing over flat limestone slabs. A large root mass from a mature tree is prominently exposed on the left side of the channel, with angular rock fragments embedded among the roots. Agricultural fields and a thin riparian corridor are visible beyond. The substrate is dominated by flat, thin limestone fragments consistent with natural bedrock weathering. Left Looking toward the left bank (right bank when facing downstream), open agricultural fields (pasture/hay) extend to the horizon with a red barn/agricultural building visible in the distance. A thin row of scattered trees (deciduous and a few cedar/pine) forms a very narrow riparian buffer between the stream and the fields. The bank transitions quickly from the channel to open agricultural land with minimal buffer width.
Scene #22 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment POOR
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front W 276°
Right
Right N 6°
Back
Back E 96°
Left
Left S 186°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a narrow channel (approximately 2-3 feet wide) flows through a heavily disturbed area. A red-roofed open-front agricultural storage shed/barn is visible on the left bank, set back approximately 30-40 feet from the channel. The channel bed is dominated by flat, angular rock fragments that appear to be broken concrete rubble rather than natural bedrock, with some weathered pieces showing aggregate patterns. A gravel driveway/pad is visible adjacent to the shed. Right Looking toward the right bank (facing downstream), dense thicket of shrubs and vines dominates. Many of the green-leaved shrubs appear to be bush honeysuckle or privet based on their semi-evergreen leaf retention in winter. Bare deciduous trees are visible above the shrub layer. The bank slopes upward from the channel through this dense vegetation. Back Looking upstream, the very narrow channel is visible with thin water flow over flat rock/concrete substrate. The channel is bordered by dense shrubby invasive vegetation and bare deciduous trees. The substrate consists of flat, angular pieces that appear to be broken concrete or limestone rubble. Open agricultural fields are visible beyond the right bank tree line. Orange-colored objects (possibly osage orange fruits) are scattered on the ground. Left Looking toward the left bank (facing downstream), an expansive open agricultural field (pasture or hay field) extends into the distance. The riparian buffer on the left bank is extremely narrow - only a few scattered trees separate the stream from the open field. A few farm structures (red barn/buildings) are visible in the distance. A piece of white litter (possibly fabric or plastic) is visible on the ground near the stream. The buffer is clearly insufficient, perhaps only 10-20 feet of sparse tree cover.
Scene #23 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment POOR
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front WNW 297°
Right
Right NNE 27°
Back
Back ESE 117°
Left
Left SSW 207°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a narrow stream channel is visible with standing/slow-moving water reflecting bare winter trees overhead. The channel is heavily choked with fallen branches, vines, and woody debris. On the left bank, there appears to be angular rock/rubble material that could be placed concrete or rubble rather than natural stone, forming a crude bank stabilization. Dense dormant vegetation lines both sides. Right Looking toward the right bank (left bank when facing downstream), dense dormant shrubs and vines dominate the view. The vegetation is extremely thick with tangled branches typical of invasive bush honeysuckle and Japanese honeysuckle. Some green herbaceous growth visible at ground level. Mature trees visible in background with a few evergreen cedars. No water or channel directly visible in this direction. Back Looking upstream, the narrow stream channel flows through a confined corridor with angular rubble/rock material along banks. The stream bed shows shallow flowing water over rocky substrate. A person in high-visibility safety gear is visible on the bank — this is the survey crew member. Beyond the channel, an open agricultural field is visible to the right, and deciduous/cedar trees line the bank to the left. The angular, flat-surfaced rubble along the stream bank has characteristics strongly suggestive of broken concrete rather than natural rock — uniform gray color, flat surfaces, angular breaks, and proximity to agricultural infrastructure. Left Looking toward the left bank (right bank when facing downstream), a red agricultural barn/pole building is prominently visible with open agricultural fields beyond. Large angular concrete blocks/rubble are clearly visible at the base of the bank near the water. These are unmistakably broken concrete — rectangular blocks with flat surfaces, sharp angular edges, and uniform gray color. Green grass and some herbaceous growth visible near the barn. The buffer between the agricultural structures and the stream is very narrow, likely under 25 feet.
Scene #24 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment POOR
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front WNW 286°
Right
Right NNE 16°
Back
Back ESE 106°
Left
Left SSW 196°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a very narrow, shallow stream channel flows through a deciduous forest corridor. The channel bed is dominated by flat, angular stones that appear to be concrete rubble rather than natural bedrock. A red metal barn or agricultural structure is visible on the left bank. Bare deciduous trees line both sides with some early spring green growth in the understory. Right The right bank (left bank when facing downstream) rises steeply into a wooded hillside. A large fallen tree with moss-covered trunk and exposed root wad is prominent. The hillside is covered with bare deciduous trees and dense understory brush. Early spring green growth (possibly invasive honeysuckle) is visible at ground level. The bank shows moderate slope with leaf litter covering the ground. Back Looking upstream, the narrow channel extends through the wooded corridor with shallow flowing water visible over a rocky/rubble bed. A large moss-covered fallen log spans across the left bank area. The channel appears slightly wider upstream with more visible water flow. Both banks are lined with bare deciduous trees. Some litter (possibly blue/purple fabric or plastic) is visible on the left bank among the debris. An open field or pasture area is faintly visible through the trees on the far right. Left The left bank direction reveals a large red metal barn/agricultural building very close to the stream. An open gravel or dirt area surrounds the barn entrance with mowed grass/pasture beyond. Angular stone and concrete rubble is piled along the bank edge between the stream and the barn. Some trash (blue plastic, black plastic sheeting) is visible among the rubble. Several trees including eastern red cedars stand between the barn and the stream channel.
Scene #25 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment MARGINAL
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front W 261°
Right
Right N 351°
Back
Back E 81°
Left
Left S 171°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a very narrow, low-flow stream channel winds through a wooded corridor. The channel bed is exposed limestone/bedrock with thin water flow. A large sycamore tree stands on the left bank, and a fallen tree spans across the channel in the mid-distance. Beyond the riparian zone, an open green pasture/field is visible. Right Looking toward the right bank (left bank when facing downstream), a steep wooded hillside rises from the channel. Dense deciduous trees are bare with some early green leaves visible on what appears to be an evergreen shrub (possibly privet). The understory is thick with dormant vegetation and leaf litter covers the slope. Some rock visible at base of slope near channel margin. Back Looking upstream, the narrow channel continues with exposed flat limestone bedrock substrate dominating the bed. The channel appears very shallow with water barely covering the rock. Large mature sycamore trees line the left bank with significant exposed root systems. Flat rock slabs in the channel show natural geological layering and weathering patterns. Some structures may be partially visible in the far right background through the vegetation. Left Looking toward the left bank (right bank when facing downstream), a large red metal agricultural building/barn is visible approximately 50-75 feet from the stream channel. Beyond the structure, an open pasture/agricultural field extends into the distance. The riparian buffer between the stream and the structure is narrow, consisting of a thin strip of dormant deciduous trees and shrubs. Some litter is visible near the structure. The ground is trampled and shows root exposure near the channel margin.
Scene #26 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment MARGINAL
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front WSW 255°
Right
Right NNW 345°
Back
Back ENE 75°
Left
Left SSE 165°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream (direction of travel), a large red metal agricultural building/barn is visible on the left bank very close to the stream corridor. Bare deciduous trees line the bank with leaf litter on the ground. Beyond the barn, open agricultural fields are visible in the background with another small red structure in the distance. The bank slopes up from the stream toward the barn. Right Looking to the right bank (when facing downstream), the stream is visible in the lower portion of the frame as a narrow channel with shallow water. The right bank has a grassy area transitioning to scattered deciduous trees (all bare). There are brush piles and woody debris on the floodplain. The landscape opens to a mowed/maintained grassy area with scattered trees suggesting rural residential or agricultural use. Fallen logs span across the channel. Back Looking upstream, the view shows a densely vegetated hillside rising steeply from the stream corridor. The bank and slope are covered with dormant deciduous shrubs, vines, and trees (all bare). Some green early spring growth is emerging in the understory. A small wet area or tributary seep is visible at the base of the slope. The vegetation is thick but mostly dormant woody material with tangled vines. Left Looking at the left bank, the stream channel is visible flowing alongside the bank with shallow water and exposed substrate. The red metal barn/building is visible again on the upper right portion of the frame, positioned very close to the stream corridor. Bare deciduous trees grow between the stream and the barn. Rock material is visible along the bank toe and in the channel - this appears to be natural limestone/bedrock outcrop consistent with the geology of the Nashville Basin area, though some angular fragments may include placed material near the barn foundation.
Scene #27 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment MARGINAL
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front SW 216°
Right
Right NW 306°
Back
Back NE 36°
Left
Left SE 126°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, the view shows a very small stream channel winding through a rural landscape. A large mature tree with deeply furrowed bark dominates the left foreground. The stream is narrow with shallow, slow-moving water. Beyond the riparian fringe, open agricultural pasture or hayfield extends to the distance. Some red agricultural equipment or a structure is faintly visible in the far background. Right Looking right (left bank when facing downstream), the view shows a mowed or grazed grassy area sloping gently up from the stream bank. The stream channel is visible at the left edge with exposed bedrock/limestone substrate. Several mature deciduous trees are scattered in the background, all bare of leaves. A structure (possibly a gazebo or small building) is faintly visible in the distance. Woody debris from fallen branches is scattered on the ground. The grass is green, suggesting mild winter or early spring conditions. Back Looking upstream, a small pool is visible with a large fallen log spanning the channel. The water is shallow and slightly turbid with a brownish tint. Exposed limestone bedrock forms the bed. The right bank (looking upstream) has bare deciduous forest with moderate understory. A person wearing a black helmet (Petzl brand) and high-visibility vest is visible at the right edge - this is the field survey crew member. The channel is very small, perhaps 4-6 feet wide. Scattered rocks and cobble are visible in and around the channel. Left Looking left (right bank when facing downstream), a red agricultural barn or shed is prominently visible approximately 30-50 feet from the stream. A survey crew member wearing a yellow Petzl helmet and high-visibility safety vest is visible in the foreground. The area between the stream and barn is vegetated with dormant shrubs and vines, with some grass. Agricultural pasture/hayfield extends beyond the barn into the distance. A large mature tree with spreading limbs dominates the near view. The riparian buffer on this side is very narrow, with the barn and agricultural use encroaching close to the stream.
Scene #28 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment MARGINAL
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front SW 221°
Right
Right NW 311°
Back
Back NE 41°
Left
Left SE 131°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a narrow stream channel meanders through a rural landscape with scattered deciduous trees in bare winter/early spring condition. The left bank shows a notable accumulation of flat, stacked rock material along the bank edge. The channel is very narrow (approximately 3-5 feet wide) with shallow water flowing over a rocky bed. Open pastoral land is visible beyond the riparian corridor on both sides. Right Looking toward the right bank (when facing downstream), the view shows a mowed grass area with scattered mature deciduous trees in bare condition. A moss-covered fallen log and a broken overhanging limb are prominent. A wood pile or brush pile is visible in the mid-ground, and fencing or fence posts may be present at the right edge of the image. The land slopes gently upward away from the stream, indicating a pastoral/residential setting. Back Looking upstream, the narrow stream channel is visible with very shallow flow over a rocky/flat substrate. A large fallen tree spans the channel creating a natural debris jam. A red agricultural barn or outbuilding is visible on the left bank (right side when facing upstream), very close to the stream. The banks are low with grass and bare deciduous trees. Flat rock substrate is visible in the channel bed. Left Looking toward the left bank (when facing downstream), a red agricultural barn or outbuilding is prominently visible very close to the stream. Dense dormant shrub and vine thickets dominate the bank between the stream and the barn. Agricultural fields are visible in the distance beyond the barn. The vegetation is dense but appears to include invasive species (likely bush honeysuckle or multiflora rose based on growth form).
Scene #29 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment MARGINAL
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front W 265°
Right
Right N 355°
Back
Back E 85°
Left
Left S 175°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a small stream channel winds through a pastoral landscape with scattered deciduous trees in bare winter/early spring condition. The water surface is calm and reflective in a pool area. A structure or outbuilding is visible in the background through the trees. The banks are low with grass and dormant vegetation. Right Looking toward the right bank, an open mowed or grazed grassy field extends away from the stream. Scattered deciduous trees in bare condition line the area. Some fallen trees and brush piles are visible at the edge of the field. The land is relatively flat with short grass suggesting regular mowing or grazing. Back Looking upstream, the stream channel narrows significantly with exposed rock/substrate visible in the bed. A red barn or agricultural building is visible through the bare trees on the left bank side. The channel has flat angular rock pieces exposed along the banks and bed. Fallen trees span parts of the channel area. The substrate appears to be flat limestone or possibly broken concrete fragments requiring closer inspection. Left Looking toward the left bank, a brushy area with dormant shrubs and small trees extends along the bank and into the floodplain. The terrain is gently sloping with dry grass and leaf litter. A person's hand and equipment are visible at the bottom of frame confirming this is a backpack-mounted camera on a walking survey. Beyond the brush, open fields and distant hills/ridgelines are visible.
Scene #30 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment MARGINAL
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front SSW 202°
Right
Right WNW 292°
Back
Back NNE 22°
Left
Left ESE 112°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a narrow shallow stream channel flows through a rocky bed with exposed flat limestone/bedrock substrate. The channel is flanked by bare deciduous trees on both sides with dormant herbaceous vegetation. Open pasture/agricultural fields are visible beyond the thin riparian corridor. A small pool of water is visible mid-channel among the exposed rock. Right Looking toward the right bank (when facing downstream), an open grassy area extends outward with scattered bare deciduous trees. A wooden barn or agricultural outbuilding is visible in the mid-distance to the right. The grass is winter-green with some bare patches. The area appears to be mowed pasture or maintained agricultural land extending beyond the thin riparian strip. The stream bank edge is visible at the near foreground. Back Looking upstream, the stream channel is visible with flowing water and significant woody debris and brush piles along the left bank. There is a large accumulation of cut/fallen branches and tree debris piled along the bank, suggesting recent clearing or storm damage. The right bank shows exposed soil and root masses at the water's edge with some bank erosion. Bare deciduous trees line both sides with open pasture beyond. A leaning tree is present on the right bank. Left Looking toward the left bank (when facing downstream), the stream flows past with slightly turbid brown water. The bank shows some erosion and exposed soil. Beyond the bank is a mix of bare deciduous trees and dormant shrubs/herbaceous vegetation. A red structure (possibly barn or outbuilding) is partially visible through the trees in the distance. Open pasture fields are visible beyond the thin riparian corridor. The stream meanders in this direction showing the channel curving.
Scene #31 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment MARGINAL
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front S 181°
Right
Right W 271°
Back
Back N 1°
Left
Left E 91°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a very narrow channel with still/slow water is visible winding through bare deciduous trees. A rock/rubble accumulation is visible on the far bank forming what appears to be a natural or placed stone pile. Agricultural/pastoral fields are visible through the leafless trees in the background with rolling hills beyond. Right Looking to the right bank (when facing downstream), a mowed grass area extends away from the channel with scattered bare deciduous trees. An old wooden barn or outbuilding is visible in the mid-ground. The grass is mostly dormant with some green patches. The riparian buffer on this side is very narrow to non-existent — the mowed area comes nearly to the bank edge. Back Looking upstream, the narrow stream channel is clearly visible flowing over exposed rocky substrate. The channel is very narrow (approximately 3-5 feet wide) with shallow flow over cobble and flat rock. Both banks are visible with moderate erosion. The left bank has green grass nearly to the edge, while the right bank has more woody vegetation and dead herbaceous material. Flat angular rock fragments are abundant in and along the channel. Left Looking toward the left bank (when facing downstream), dense shrubby and vine-covered vegetation is visible with some evergreen trees (likely eastern red cedar). A red-roofed building or barn is partially visible through the vegetation in the background. The understory is thick with dormant vines and brush, providing relatively dense bank coverage despite being leafless. This side has more robust riparian vegetation than the right bank.
Scene #32 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment MARGINAL
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front WSW 239°
Right
Right NNW 329°
Back
Back ENE 59°
Left
Left SSE 149°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a very narrow channel (approximately 3-5 feet wide) extends with shallow water flowing over a substrate of flat, thin rock fragments. The channel is bordered on the left by dense bare deciduous trees and shrubs, and on the right by a mowed grass area. A large mature tree with sprawling branches overhangs the channel from the left bank. Right Looking right (right bank facing downstream), a broad mowed grass area extends from the bank edge. Scattered deciduous trees, mostly bare, stand in the grassy area. A large brush pile or downed tree debris is visible in the mid-ground near where the channel curves. A structure (possibly a barn or outbuilding) is visible in the distance through the bare trees. The mowed grass extends right up to the channel edge with minimal riparian buffer. Back Looking upstream, the narrow channel continues with flowing water over rocky substrate. The left bank has exposed rock/stone along the bank edge with tree roots and some vegetation. The right bank shows open pasture or agricultural land beyond a thin fringe of vegetation. A person with survey/assessment equipment is partially visible in the bottom of the frame. The flat rock fragments along the bank edge require careful assessment for concrete vs natural origin. Left Looking left (left bank facing downstream), a large mature tree trunk dominates the near view with deeply furrowed bark. Beyond the tree, through bare branches and thin understory, open agricultural or pastoral land is visible extending to distant hills. A wire fence line may be present. The bank drops off behind the tree toward the channel. Exposed roots of the large tree are visible, and the ground surface shows leaf litter and some low green vegetation.
Scene #33 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment MARGINAL
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front W 272°
Right
Right N 2°
Back
Back E 92°
Left
Left S 182°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a very narrow channel (approximately 3-5 feet wide) winds through a mixed riparian corridor. The left bank has dense shrubby vegetation and some mature trees, while the right bank transitions quickly to mowed grass/pasture. Water is shallow with visible substrate and a small pool area visible in the mid-distance. Right The right bank (when facing downstream) opens to a broad, mowed grass area with scattered young deciduous trees in a parkland or pasture setting. Trees are bare, indicating early spring. A debris pile or brush pile is visible at the far right near the stream bank edge. The grass area extends well back from the channel with no significant riparian buffer. Back Looking upstream, the narrow channel continues with shallow flowing water over a rocky/silty substrate. The left bank (right side of image looking upstream) shows grassy pasture with minimal buffer, while the right bank (left side looking upstream) has some woody vegetation and a large mature tree with extensive root exposure at the bank edge. Flat angular rock fragments are visible in the streambed. Left The left bank when facing downstream shows dense shrubby understory and bare deciduous trees. Beyond the immediate riparian zone, open pasture or agricultural land is visible through the vegetation. The shrub layer includes some green-leafed vines that appear to be evergreen invasives (possibly Japanese honeysuckle). The ground is covered with leaf litter and bare soil.
Scene #34 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment MARGINAL
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front WSW 257°
Right
Right NNW 347°
Back
Back ENE 77°
Left
Left SSE 167°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a narrow, shallow channel flows through a rural/suburban setting. The channel is narrow (approximately 3-6 feet wide) with exposed flat rock/limestone substrate visible in the bed. Water is very shallow and flows gently downstream. The right bank transitions quickly to a mowed grass field with scattered bare deciduous trees. The left bank has dense shrubby vegetation and small trees. A structure or building is faintly visible in the distance on the right side. Right The right bank (left bank when facing downstream) shows a mowed grass field extending back from the stream channel with scattered bare deciduous trees. The bank edge has leaf litter and woody debris. A broken tree stump is prominent near the bank edge. The grass is green and appears maintained. Beyond the field, a tree line is visible along what appears to be a property boundary or road. Back Looking upstream, the view shows a mowed grass area to the left with scattered bare deciduous trees. The channel edge is visible on the right side with exposed rock/limestone substrate at the bank. A red building or barn is visible in the background through the bare trees. The riparian zone transitions quickly from channel edge to mowed grass, with some shrubby vegetation and small trees along the bank. Some flat rock fragments are visible at the bank edge. Left The left bank (right bank when facing downstream) shows dense shrubby vegetation and small trees, most of which are bare/dormant. The vegetation is tangled with vines and brush creating a thick but low-quality riparian buffer. Beyond the immediate riparian vegetation, structures or buildings appear to be present in the background. Some litter is visible on the ground. The vegetation is primarily composed of what appears to be invasive shrubs (possibly bush honeysuckle or multiflora rose) given the dense tangled growth pattern.
Scene #35 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment MARGINAL
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front SW 236°
Right
Right NW 326°
Back
Back NE 56°
Left
Left SE 146°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a narrow stream channel extends into the distance with very shallow flow over exposed rock/flat substrate. The channel is approximately 3-5 feet wide. The left bank has sparse dormant grass and scattered mature deciduous trees in bare winter condition. The right bank is lined with mowed green grass extending to scattered trees with a structure (barn/shed) visible in the far background. A yucca plant is growing on the right bank edge. Right The right bank view shows a mowed grass area extending away from the stream, transitioning to a thicket of dense dormant shrubs and small trees. A few scattered mature deciduous trees stand in the mowed area. The vegetation in the thicket is heavily tangled and dormant, with some potential invasive species (bush honeysuckle or privet) evident from the dense growth habit. The area appears to be rural residential or agricultural land. Back Looking upstream, the narrow stream channel is visible with very shallow flow over exposed flat limestone bedrock substrate. The channel curves slightly. The left bank (right side of image looking upstream) shows mowed green grass with scattered mature trees and a large tree stump/rootwad on the bank. A structure with a reddish/pink color is visible in the background through the bare trees. The right bank (left in image) has dense dormant shrubs and vine thicket. Woody debris accumulation is visible on the left bank near the channel. Left The left bank view shows dense dormant vegetation including a thick tangle of shrubs, vines, and small trees. Several mature deciduous trees extend above the understory. The vegetation is heavily dormant and some green leaves visible appear to be evergreen species or possibly invasive species with extended growing season (privet or Japanese honeysuckle retaining some foliage). The ground is covered in leaf litter and dead vine material. This side has a much denser riparian buffer compared to the mowed right bank.
Scene #36 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment MARGINAL
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front SW 235°
Right
Right NW 325°
Back
Back NE 55°
Left
Left SE 145°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a very narrow channel (approximately 3-5 feet wide) flows through a pastoral landscape. The channel has exposed flat rock substrate with thin sheet flow over it. Scattered deciduous trees line the corridor, all bare of leaves. The right side shows mowed green pasture extending to the horizon, while the left side has dormant herbaceous cover and some shrubby growth. Right Looking toward the right bank, a mowed green pasture extends across a gently rolling landscape. A single mature deciduous tree with lichen-covered bark stands prominently. Beyond the pasture, a dense thicket of bare shrubs and small trees forms a hedgerow. The grass is short and well-maintained, indicating active grazing or mowing. No stream infrastructure visible. Back Looking upstream, the narrow channel continues with exposed bedrock and thin flowing water over limestone. Both banks are low with some minor erosion visible on the left bank where turf has been undercut. A yucca plant grows on the left bank edge. The right bank has dormant herbaceous vegetation and scattered shrubs. Mature deciduous trees line both sides at varying distances. The landscape is open pastoral on the left with denser shrub/tree cover on the right. Left Looking toward the left bank, a moderately dense thicket of dormant deciduous trees and shrubs extends from the stream corridor. The understory has dormant herbaceous growth with some green patches. A few yucca plants are visible in the understory, which are non-native ornamental plants that may indicate past homestead activity. Some evergreen trees (possibly cedar) visible in the mid-ground. The vegetation is denser on this side compared to the right bank pasture.
Scene #37 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment POOR
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front SW 230°
Right
Right NW 320°
Back
Back NE 50°
Left
Left SE 140°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a very narrow, shallow stream channel flows over exposed flat rock substrate through a rural pastoral setting. The channel is approximately 2-4 feet wide with minimal water depth. On the left side, dormant herbaceous vegetation and a few scattered trees including eastern red cedars line the bank. On the right, a mowed green pasture extends to the channel edge. A red barn or agricultural building is visible in the far left background. Right Looking toward the right bank (facing downstream), an open mowed green pasture extends from the channel edge. Several scattered deciduous trees (bare) are present, and a white agricultural outbuilding or shed is visible in the middle distance. A utility pole with overhead lines is visible on the far left. The pasture grass extends very close to the stream channel with essentially no riparian buffer zone. The landscape is flat rural agricultural land. Back Looking upstream, the narrow stream channel continues with exposed flat limestone bedrock substrate and very shallow flow. The channel meanders slightly through a pastoral landscape with scattered deciduous trees on both sides. The left bank (right side looking upstream) shows mowed green pasture extending very close to the channel. The right bank (left side looking upstream) has slightly more herbaceous/shrub cover with dormant vegetation. Several trees line the channel intermittently. Flat rock substrate is prominently exposed in the channel. Left Looking toward the left bank (facing downstream), dense dormant herbaceous vegetation including tall dried grasses, weeds, and scattered shrubs extends from the bank. Several deciduous trees (bare) and eastern red cedars provide some overhead structure. The vegetation is thicker and more natural on this side compared to the mowed right bank. Behind the immediate riparian zone, more open agricultural land and distant tree lines are visible. This side has a more functional, though narrow, buffer compared to the right bank.
Scene #38 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment POOR
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front SW 219°
Right
Right NW 309°
Back
Back NE 39°
Left
Left SE 129°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a narrow, shallow stream channel extends into the distance flanked by cedar trees on the left bank and open mowed grass on the right bank. The channel is narrow (approximately 3-5 feet wide) with shallow water flowing over a substrate of rock and mud. A utility pole with power lines is visible in the far right background. Right Looking toward the right bank (when facing downstream), an open mowed grass lawn extends to residential structures in the background. Several deciduous trees (bare, winter dormant) are scattered across the lawn. A tree stump is visible near the bank edge. The riparian buffer is virtually nonexistent — mowed grass extends to within a few feet of the channel. Back Looking upstream, the narrow stream channel continues with exposed rock/limestone substrate visible in the bed. The channel is very shallow with water flowing over flat rock slabs and loose rock. Trees line both sides but the left bank (from upstream perspective) has mowed grass extending close to the channel. Several deciduous trees flank the channel. The substrate appears to be natural limestone bedrock with some loose cobble and gravel. Left Looking toward the left bank (when facing downstream), the view shows eastern red cedar trees and mixed deciduous shrubs with dormant brown grass and herbaceous vegetation. Beyond the immediate riparian strip, an open agricultural field or pasture extends to the distance. A utility pole or fence post is visible in the mid-ground. The vegetation is denser on this side than the right bank but is predominantly cedar and dormant herbaceous cover rather than a mature hardwood buffer.
Scene #39 MS4 Visual Stream Assessment POOR
Assessed Apr 9, 2026
Front
Front WSW 245°
Right
Right NNW 335°
Back
Back ENE 65°
Left
Left SSE 155°
Up
Up
Down
Down
Summary: Front Looking downstream, a small stream channel is visible on the left side of the view flowing through a narrow, incised corridor. The right side shows open mowed pasture/grassland extending to the distance. The stream bank on the left has sparse deciduous vegetation (bare dormant trees and shrubs) with one evergreen cedar tree. Some flat rock slabs are visible in and along the channel bed. Right Open mowed pasture/grassland dominates the view extending to rural residential structures in the distance. Several large deciduous trees are bare, scattered across the landscape. A white house and outbuildings are visible in the middle distance. A utility pole with power lines is visible on the far right. The grass is a mix of green and dormant brown, typical of early spring transition. Back Looking upstream, the small stream channel is visible on the right side flowing toward the camera with shallow clear-to-slightly-turbid water over what appears to be natural limestone bedrock and gravel substrate. The left bank has scattered mature deciduous trees (bare) over mowed green grass. The right bank has denser shrub and tree vegetation including evergreen cedars. The channel is narrow, approximately 3-5 feet wide, with low banks. Left Dense dormant shrub and herbaceous vegetation dominates the view, forming a thicket along the left bank (when facing downstream). Rolling hills are visible in the far background. The vegetation is primarily dormant brown shrubs with some early spring green growth beginning. A few bare tree branches extend overhead from the upper left. Some structures are barely visible in the far right distance through the vegetation.
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