Lunenburg Developers Revise Plans to Protect Turtle Habitat Amid Conservation Concerns
-
Meeting Type:
Environmental Commission
-
Meeting Date:
10/16/2024
-
Recording Published:
10/17/2024
-
Duration:
165 Minutes
-
State:
Massachusetts
-
County:
Worcester County
-
Towns:
Lunenburg
- Meeting Overview:
During a recent Lunenburg Conservation Commission meeting, a significant revision to a development plan near Glen Lizard Turtle habitat emerged as the most pressing topic. Developers initially proposed a four-lot subdivision but scaled it down to a three-lot common driveway layout to minimize environmental impact. This change reduced the buffer zone disturbance from 64,000 square feet to 18,000 square feet.
The revised plans resulted from negotiations with a neighboring property owner, John Rodot, involving the acquisition of frontage to make Rodot’s lot conforming. A deed restriction was established, creating a 50-foot undisturbed buffer zone to protect the habitat. The developers outlined additional measures, including split rail fences to prevent further disturbance. The timing of construction relative to the turtle nesting season was a discussion point, with plans in place to begin work before April 1st to avoid disrupting the turtles.
The developers emphasized their commitment to environmental stewardship, including erosion control measures like straw wattles and silt fences, and confirmed no tree removal beyond approved grading lines to preserve the natural habitat.
In another noteworthy development, commission members deliberated over a proposal for retaining wall installations to manage erosion issues. The applicant had added an unapproved retaining wall, prompting the commission to request a formal planting plan to document changes. This case highlighted the commission’s emphasis on procedural compliance.
Meanwhile, issues of non-compliance were addressed, with updates on several parcels under observation. The commission emphasized the importance of completing projects rather than imposing fines, focusing on ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. A specific concern was raised regarding unauthorized work at a property affecting Pearl Creek, necessitating a site visit to assess erosion controls.
Additionally, the meeting tackled stormwater runoff problems at Reservoir Road. Homeowners agreed to pave their gravel driveway following town recommendations. This decision was documented with support from a town official.
The commission also approved a proposal for purchasing cabinets for a Habitat for Humanity project using funds from the Haw fund. A budget cap was set to cover potential costs.
Heather R. Lemieux
Environmental Commission Officials:
Mary Wilson, Bob Pease, Richard Bursch, Chris St. Germain, Mike Larouche, Jeff Viviano, Jenny Pewtherer, Sophie Dorow (Conservation Administrator)
-
Meeting Type:
Environmental Commission
-
Meeting Date:
10/16/2024
-
Recording Published:
10/17/2024
-
Duration:
165 Minutes
-
Notability Score:
Routine
Receive debriefs about local meetings in your inbox weekly:
-
State:
Massachusetts
-
County:
Worcester County
-
Towns:
Lunenburg
Recent Meetings Nearby:
- 10/21/2024
- 10/21/2024
- 84 Minutes
- 10/21/2024
- 10/21/2024
- 161 Minutes
- 10/21/2024
- 10/22/2024
- 75 Minutes