Dighton Discusses Solar Projects Amid Stormwater Management Concerns

Overview: In a recent Dighton Stormwater Commission meeting, one notable issue addressed was the intersection of agricultural activities and stormwater management in relation to the Blue Wave Solar project at Treemont and Middle Streets. During the meeting, significant time was dedicated to the discussion of the project’s progress and the challenges ahead. The commission debated the impact of beginning agricultural work, including decompaction and picking rocks in the array rows, while waiting for the final sign-off on the stormwater permit. This highlighted a concern about how these activities might affect the stormwater system, though it was noted that agricultural operations are typically exempt under the stormwater permit.

Townsend Water Board Grapples with Ethical Investment Dilemma

Overview: The Townsend Board of Water Commissioners convened on May 13, 2024, to discuss a range of issues affecting the local water supply, with the most contentious topic being the ethical implications of allocating lawsuit funds from companies involved in chemical contamination. The board is anticipating significant payouts over the next 13 years, which are earmarked primarily for the long-term operation and maintenance of the filters. Commissioners debated the best investment strategies for these funds and the potential increase in costs as more systems become operational. Despite reservations, the potential benefits for water takers and the maintenance costs were acknowledged.

Townsend Board Addresses Water Contamination and Liability Concerns

Overview: The Townsend Board of Water Commissioners convened on April 23rd, 2024, to tackle several issues, the most pressing being the potential contamination of private wells through septic systems and the associated personal liability for property owners. The board members present at the meeting included Todd Malanson, Ean Mata, Jessica Funi, and the superintendent, J. Xend Deranian. They discussed the necessity of addressing this pressing public health concern and explored the possibility of obtaining a state waiver for homeowners’ liability. The meeting further delved into the management of funds from a recent lawsuit settlement, potential sale of water to another town, ongoing infrastructure projects, and the implications of new EPA regulations on local residents.

Dighton Stormwater Commission Approves Waivers

Overview: The Dighton Stormwater Commission recently convened to discuss several matters, the most significant being the approval of various waivers related to stormwater management for ongoing projects, including the debated Elm Street project and solar farms. The waivers granted involve the construction of stormwater basins with greater depths than typically allowed and the introduction of slopes that deviate from standard requirements. Additionally, the Commission addressed modifications to stormwater basins to resolve ponding issues and reviewed a proposal for TSS removal and flow rate concerns. Notably, the meeting evolved into a broader discussion on the future role and focus of the Stormwater Commission itself, with some members advocating for a return to its core responsibilities.

Southwick Lake Management Committee Backs Hydrilla Control Program

Overview: In a recent Southwick Lake Management Committee meeting, a development focused on the management of hydrilla, an invasive aquatic plant threatening local ecosystems. The Committee expressed unanimous support for a fully funded three-year assessment and treatment program to address the hydrilla situation in the lake. The program is backed by a grant from the Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). Additionally, the meeting covered the nomination of a committee member to liaise with a neighboring Conservation Commission, discussions on a new grant from the select board, the introduction of a CEO candidate from Hardwick, Massachusetts, and the planning of a new South ramp building.