The Conservation Commission met on Wednesday, November 4, to consider several routine hearings.
The board had no issue with a proposal seeking to remove and repair a pier on East Avenue. However, it had some suggestions. Commissioners asked the applicant’s engineer to avoid damage to the eelgrass in that area when materials are stockpiled.
“From an environmental standpoint, it is a marine habitat issue,” Commissioner Shaun Walsh said of the possible eelgrass damage. “I don’t want to hold up the project; it’s just food for thought.”
The state Division of Fisheries and Wildlife ruled that the project poses no threat to the nearby endangered or rare species, according to project engineer Bob Rogers.
Rogers said he would ask the applicant to consider more stockpiling safety measures. Rogers is also the engineer for a Holly Lane applicant looking to build an addition.
The commission visited the property and had no issues and called it a routine project that will not threaten wetlands or wildlife.
The commission also had no questions or concerns about a Water Street proposal for a pool, an addition and an accessory dwelling unit.
The commission also granted an extension to a volunteer group that seeks permission every three years to continue removing trees and branches from the Sippican River.
The state DFW is behind the effort, as it cleans the river and helps water flow. The removal effort will extend along the river from County Road to Doggett Brook.
Marion Conservation Commission
By Jeffrey D. Wagner