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New Mercer Ditch Characterization
New Mercer Ditch exhibits relatively uniform vegetation and bank characteristics throughout the reach
that runs through the Site. Vegetation is dominated by reed canary grass and smooth brome,
interspersed with Canada thistle and leafy spurge. Much of the bank along the ditch is moderately
incised and exhibits a steep slope, ranging from 60 to 90 degrees. Despite these conditions, there is little
evidence of bank failure or excessive sediment deposition into the waterway, likely a result of the
stability provided by a dense layer of herbaceous vegetation. The ordinary high water mark is visible
approximately 1 foot from the bank floor of the ditch, while the total height of the ditch is
approximately 3-6 feet high. Consequently, evidence of periodic inundation is limited to the engineered
bank canal and contained by steep, high banks. Thus, hydrology of the ditch is not indicative of a
wetland, and habitat along the banks is better described as riparian herbaceous.