Chatham Prepares for Coastal Erosion Challenges with Innovative Flow Control Structures

The Chatham Conservation Commission meeting on October 23, 2024, prominently addressed the town’s coastal erosion challenges, with focus on a proposed project involving temporary groins and beach nourishment at Crescent Beach. The project, driven by alarming erosion rates of up to 19 feet annually in some areas, aims to mitigate these issues while maintaining safe navigation and preserving the beach. The coastal resource director and John Ramsey, representing the town, provided context for the project, emphasizing the need for proactive measures without immediately implementing the structures. Ramsey detailed how the proposed flow control structures, designed to be removable, would redirect currents offshore, potentially resulting in sand deposition and reduced erosion. The project would involve a 1,000-foot structure, including groins and offshore veins, and the placement of 84,000 cubic yards of sand.

In another discussion, the commission deliberated on the tree removal plan for a construction project, expressing concerns about the removal of large native black oaks. A commission member emphasized the long-term implications of tree removal, advocating for the preservation of native canopy, which contributes to carbon capture and ecological balance. The commission sought a balance between necessary construction measures and ecological preservation, pressing for clarity on which trees could potentially be saved and the rationale behind their removal.

The meeting also addressed a project aimed at invasive plant management and restoration on Old Harbor Road. The proposed approach involves cutting invasive species like Japanese knotweed to ground level, treating them with herbicides, and replanting the area with native species. The commission expressed urgency in expediting the treatment process before the first frost.

Further, the commission considered a request for a certificate of compliance for a property on Fox Hill Road, spotlighting the challenges of maintaining proper site documentation. Concerns arose over the lack of photographic evidence and historical records, with a proposal to condition ongoing documentation for future compliance. The discussion included the implications of maintaining unpermitted stairs and large rocks at the property, with a consensus to issue the certificate provided ongoing conditions were met.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.
Town Manager:
Jill R. Goldsmith
Environmental Commission Officials:
Janet Williams, Karen Lattin, Robert Ralls, Robert DelVecchio, Mary Sullivan, Elise Gordon, Cheryl Meservey, Eric Hilbert, Cory J. Metters (Select Board Liaison), Paul Wightman (Conservation Agent/North Beach Manager), Crystal Keon (Conservation Division Administrative Assistant)

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