The commission first tackled the contentious situation involving properties at 51 and 53R Main Street, where complaints about stormwater mismanagement have led to potential wetlands violations. The owner of 51 Main Street, Steven Buckus, reported that his neighbor had been diverting stormwater onto his property, which could impact nearby wetlands. The commission’s agent confirmed that while significant wetlands were not immediately adjacent, they were present further back on the property. Conversely, the owner of 53R Main Street accused Buckus of constructing a berm, purportedly using Christmas trees, to redirect water, causing pooling on their property.

The meeting revealed that both property owners had lodged complaints with the Environmental Protection Agency, which typically reroutes such issues to local conservation bodies. The commission’s agent suggested issuing notices of violation to both parties, given the evidence of infractions on each side. This complex situation was further complicated by legal nuances around the statute of limitations for wetlands violations, especially when property ownership changes. The commission considered a site visit to better understand the issues, acknowledging that snow cover was currently hindering a examination. After deliberation, a motion to table the discussion until March 25 was carried by a four to one vote, allowing time for further investigation and potential site visits.

The Forge Pond Fish Passage project was another significant topic, presented as an ecological restoration effort designed to facilitate fish migration between the ocean and freshwater environments. Jill Griffiths, representing Gomez and Sullivan Engineers, outlined the project’s goal to construct a permanent fishway at the Forge Pond Dam. This initiative aims to address existing impairments to fish passage, particularly for river herring and American eels, by improving the flow regime and water quality.

The proposed fishway design, a Canard alternating side baffle fish ladder, is notable for its innovative features and effectiveness in low flow conditions. It is only the second installation of its kind, following a successful implementation in the Midwest. The project also includes dredging a channel through Forge Pond to aid fish navigation, with plans to dispose of the dredged sediment on the shoreline.

The commission heard concerns from a local resident, Heidi Whipple, who raised issues about potential odors and increased traffic due to the dredging operations. The project team assured that an odor contingency plan was in place and that dredging would occur during less active outdoor periods to minimize disruption. Additionally, Whipple suggested traffic route modifications to prevent heavy trucks from passing her historic home, and she requested a seasonal dock to maintain recreational access to the water.

Collaboration with local departments was deemed essential to address traffic and safety concerns. The commission emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach to ecological restoration, noting the connection between the fish passage project and the Lake Street Culvert Replacement Project.

The removal was completed without ground disturbance, and further actions concerning the stumps were anticipated.