David Clark, representing the applicants, outlined the necessity of relocating the property’s well to maximize the separation from the proposed leaching field, essential for both health and environmental considerations. The design aims to reduce the leach field’s size by 50% via IA technology, thus lessening its footprint within the sensitive coastal storm flowage area adjacent to the Wapon River. This approach not only minimizes potential floodplain impacts but also aligns with compliance requirements under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act.

The commissioners delved into several aspects of the proposal, particularly concerning tree removal and replacement plans. They pressed for precise details regarding the types and locations of replacement trees, specifically seeking to identify any non-native species slated for removal. Clark acknowledged this requirement, agreeing to provide a detailed sketch illustrating the proposed landscaping changes.

Another point of discussion was the discrepancy in the property’s bedroom count, which impacts the design and capacity of the sewage system. Conflicting records and descriptions ranging from five to nine bedrooms necessitated clarification. Clark explained that despite the house historically accommodating nine bedrooms, the system would be designed to support seven bedrooms, as determined after consultations with the Board of Health.

The commission’s scrutiny extended to the proposed system’s ability to manage effluent from a house of this size. The IA technology was highlighted for its capability to biologically treat wastewater, reducing nitrogen levels and allowing a higher loading rate on the leach field. This technological advantage is important for meeting environmental standards while fulfilling the property’s functional needs.

In addition to the primary application, the commission also reviewed a related septic system proposal near the Oyster River. This system, positioned close to a Coastal Bank, required careful examination due to its sensitive location. The current groundwater level, slightly above the regulatory limit, prompted discussions on design practices and compliance with setback requirements from resource areas, including Coastal Banks.

Commissioners queried the system’s 38-foot setback from the Coastal Bank, which falls short of the 50-foot standard. This sparked a conversation about potential alternatives to achieve the necessary separation, emphasizing the importance of adhering to both state and local regulations. Despite these concerns, the system’s placement 100 feet from the receiving waters of the Oyster River was deemed compliant with state guidance.

The discussion touched on erosion control measures and the introduction of beach grass to curb invasive vegetation near the new leach field. This approach aims to enhance the site’s ecological health without expanding lawn areas. Concerns about the site’s existing cesspools and the need for erosion control fabric around the new well access area were also addressed, alongside the utility connections required for the new system.

The meeting’s tone, while professional, included light-hearted moments, notably when the classification of the Oyster River was humorously debated. Despite these lighter exchanges, the commission remained focused on ensuring that all proposals met rigorous environmental standards and regulatory compliance.