Eastern segment: This eastern portion of Coles Brook exists in a protected wetland. Vegetation on the banks is dense, with swamp maple, white pine, shrubs and wildflowers. Road runoff at both ends, where the brook flows under Rte. 2, is possibly the cause of sediment and clogging. Otherwise this seems a healthy stream, supporting diverse vegetation and wildlife.
Western segment: Coles Brook starts with a pool (?) behind the parking lot of 380 Mass Avenue. A path leads down to it. The brook flows eastward through woods and old stone walls to Rte. 2. Although there are new residential construction sites nearby, the brook is protected by a buffer of trees and shrubs. The area is wild and dense with vegetation now, but evidence of farmland remains in the form of stone walls and apple trees.
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