Gardner Commission Deliberates Wetlands Restoration Plan
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Meeting Type:
Environmental Commission
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Meeting Date:
06/10/2024
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Recording Published:
06/11/2024
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Duration:
32 Minutes
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Worcester County
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Towns:
Gardner
- Meeting Overview:
The Gardner Conservation Commission recently convened to discuss several pressing environmental issues and projects, with a primary focus on a wetlands restoration plan presented by Fieldstone Land Consultants. The meeting also touched on property-related concerns, including open order conditions, property donation for conservation, and lack of progress on a safety issue at a specific site.
The most pressing agenda item was the follow-up on a violation and enforcement order relating to the Wetlands Protection Act filed by Allpurpose Storage LLC. The discussion centered on a comprehensive restoration plan for the wetlands area presented by a representative from Fieldstone Land Consultants. The plan outlined steps for the removal of materials and trailers, as well as the installation of a silt fence to stabilize the site. Concerns were raised about jurisdiction, specifically the 100-foot buffer zone, and the temporary repair of a ramp. Coordination with Douglas Dillon, the Conservation Agent, was deemed necessary.
Another matter involved a property on Road with a notice of intent filed by David Ross Associates for Robert Laier. The commission explored the details of the application, considering the implications for the area and the compliance with local regulations. Additionally, the commission briefly mentioned new business items, such as a potential construction project on Acadia Road, and provided updates on ongoing endeavors like the Bas State Racing project.
During the meeting, the commission uncovered an issue with a property that had open order conditions dating back three years. A building permit had been improperly closed without the necessary sign-off from the commission, which led to confusion. The commission expressed the need to communicate with the prospective buyer to resolve the outstanding conditions. Moreover, the presence of new flags in the wetlands at the site sparked curiosity and prompted questions about their purpose.
The lack of progress on addressing safety concerns at a property located on Noy Street was also deliberated. Frustrations were voiced over the inaction of the property owner, and the commission considered sending a certified letter to expedite movement on this issue. Additionally, the potential donation of land for conservation was discussed, with members expressing uncertainty about its utility for conservation purposes and the costs associated with the donation process.
The meeting attendees also discussed administrative matters, highlighting the need for digital copies of documents to facilitate future site visits and project reviews. Such administrative updates are important for the efficient operation of the commission and adherence to environmental regulations.
In a lighter moment, one attendee shared information about an ongoing art exhibit at the Gardner Museum, which featured artwork centered on conserved properties in the area, tying back to the commission’s overarching mission of environmental conservation.
Michael J. Nicholson
Environmental Commission Officials:
Greg Dumas, Duncan Burns, Jr., David Orwig, Norman Beauregard, David Beauregard, Corinne Smith, DOUGLAS DILLON (Conservation Agent)
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Meeting Type:
Environmental Commission
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
06/10/2024
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Recording Published:
06/11/2024
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Duration:
32 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Worcester County
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Towns:
Gardner
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