Falmouth Conservation Commission Tackles Coastal Erosion Projects and Developments

The Falmouth Conservation Commission’s recent virtual meeting, broadcasted on FCTV, addressed a series of environmental and development projects, focusing heavily on coastal erosion control measures and the proposal of new residential constructions. Key discussions involved approvals for fiber roll arrays to mitigate erosion and the considerations of new home developments impacting local wetland resource areas.

The meeting began with a discussion on the proposed project on Eel River Road, presented by Mike Borelli from Falmouth Engineering on behalf of Jeffrey Anger. The primary focus was on addressing erosion at a low-profile coastal bank through the installation of a fiber roll array designed by Crawford Land Management. Borelli highlighted the removal of unpermitted timber structures by the property owner and emphasized the need for erosion mitigation. Jen Crawford elaborated on the bank’s poor condition, noting overhanging root mats and small fallen trees. The plan includes using three to four fiber rolls, restoring the bank with vegetation, and creating a Vista corridor for enhanced visibility without full tree clearance. Borelli acknowledged historical violations on the property, including unauthorized tree cutting in 2012, and expressed a desire to merge the current application with a previous restoration plan. Following a discussion about property management and historical context, a continuance was requested until April 16, which the commission approved unanimously.

Another proposal involved a development project on Wild Harbor Road. Tim Santos from Maryland Engineers, representing the applicant, described plans to raze and reconstruct a single-family dwelling along with a garage, terraces, and a pool, while upgrading the sewage disposal system. The project aims to move the house further from the buffer zone, reducing impervious surfaces by 1,800 square feet. Landscape architect Sean Papage highlighted a robust planting scheme with native species and discussed a no-mow area intended to control erosion. Concerns were raised about previously cleared areas without permits and the aggressive growth patterns of switchgrass, prompting discussions about plant diversity and management. The commission agreed to accept a revised plan addressing these concerns and voted unanimously to close the hearing.

The commission also considered a proposal on Foster Road from Don and Nancy Colerin, represented by Mike Worcelli. The project entails a fiber roll array for erosion control along their Vineyard Sound waterfront, following a 2018 order to replace a timber wall with riprap. Worcelli discussed potential minor mitigation planting due to patio area enlargements and possible shed reconfiguration. The commission agreed on the necessity of a continuance to address staff comments and voted unanimously to postpone the decision until April 16.

Additional agenda items included enforcement orders and conditions for marine projects. Weatherly Doris from Quisset Harbor Boatyard proposed replacing pilings and reconstructing a pier section, with the commission unanimously supporting the order of conditions despite concerns about debris storage. Boyce Campson from Acme Falmouth sought approval for dredging improvements at Scranton Avenue, which the commission also approved unanimously. Discussions concluded with amendments to the town’s dredge and beach nourishment plan, aiming to dredge specific ponds more deeply and narrow channels, which were also approved without dissent.

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.
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