The commission’s deliberations on the weed removal project highlighted several logistical and environmental issues. A prominent point of discussion was the transportation of extracted plant material from the ponds to the Department of Public Works (DPW) Yard. Options considered included the use of town vehicles or contracting local services, such as those offered by a resident named Jeff. With the minimal travel distance described as a “two-minute ride,” considerations of feasibility and costs were weighed carefully.

Concerns were raised about the potential environmental impact of storing the removed biomass onsite. The strategy proposed involved taking weeds to the shoreline for natural dewatering, which was believed to minimize water discharge back into the ponds. Consequently, the necessity of erosion controls was questioned, although clarity on regulatory requirements for onsite storage was deemed critical to proceed without harming the aquatic environment.

The origins of the excessive weed growth also sparked inquiry, with references to historical pond closures due to high pH levels attributed to goose droppings. While water activities have since resumed, the commission emphasized the need for a robust water quality monitoring plan. This plan would include herbicide use as part of plant management, following recommendations from the Department of Marine Fisheries. Monitoring specific fish species during migration and developing a clear plan for weed removal and disposal were identified as critical components of this strategy.

Parallel to these discussions, members explored the operational logistics of the weed removal process. This included estimating the volume of material to be extracted and determining whether additional equipment would be required for effective management and transport. The potential need for multiple trips to transport material and the implications of onsite storage were discussed, highlighting the need for a detailed, actionable plan to ensure project success while safeguarding the environment.

The commission also considered a Notice of Intent submitted by Deep Brook Estates LLC for a residential subdivision project within a 100-foot buffer zone of wetlands. The applicant sought to continue proceedings due to an expired order of conditions. The proposed development involves constructing two subdivision roadways and drainage for a 15-lot single-family subdivision.

Attention then turned to a project on Hathaway Road, where an extension request for an existing order of conditions was discussed. The project entails constructing a single-family dwelling, a septic system, and a barn garage, all within a 100-foot wetland buffer zone. A detailed overview was provided.

Discussions on another ongoing project revealed challenges related to soil management and temporary access road establishment. The speaker emphasized recycling and reusing existing soil, highlighting efforts to mitigate high transportation costs by managing loam onsite. Erosion control measures had been enhanced, with tree removal and stump management strategies devised to minimize disposal costs.

Public comments during the meeting included criticism regarding the progress and organization of a particular site, with concerns raised over its aesthetics and the risk of oil leaks from machinery near wetlands. The commission underscored the importance of maintaining equipment to prevent environmental harm, despite the logistical challenges faced.

Further conversations addressed the implications of a permit extension act issued by Governor Healey, which provides an automatic two-year extension for permits valid from January 2023 to 2025. This prompted discussions on regulatory compliance and the need for clarity regarding the project’s timeline and the potential impact of the new law.

They emphasized the importance of preventing disturbances to remediated sites, particularly those near the New Bedford Superfund site.