Farland Corp's Scott Daggot clarifies flood storage calculations for conservation commission

The Northampton Conservation Commission meeting held on April 24, 2025, focused on critical discussions regarding compensatory storage calculations related to a proposed project by Farland Corp. The meeting began with a review of the project's flood management strategies, particularly concerning elevations above 116 feet.

Scott Daggot, the senior project manager for Farland Corp., presented the capacity storage calculations. He explained that due to site limitations, compensatory storage could not be provided on-site for elevations above 116 feet. Instead, Daggot detailed how he redistributed the required storage volumes into lower elevation areas, specifically between elevations 110 and 115. This approach aimed to comply with regulations while addressing the physical constraints of the site.

Commission members raised concerns about the implications of this method, particularly regarding the potential for flooding once water levels exceed 116 feet. Daggot acknowledged that once floodwaters rise above this elevation, the compensatory storage would be ineffective, as there would be no available storage capacity.

Further discussions highlighted the importance of adhering to guidelines set by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Daggot noted that while he had consulted with DEP regarding the handling of storage above the site's physical limitations, the final decision rests with the local conservation commission.

Commission members also questioned whether the removal of existing trailers and other materials on-site had been considered in the calculations. This inquiry pointed to the need for a comprehensive evaluation of all site conditions to ensure compliance with flood management requirements.

The meeting concluded with a call for further review of the project plans, emphasizing the necessity for a thorough understanding of the compensatory storage implications and the potential impact on flood management. The commission plans to continue discussions in future meetings to ensure all concerns are adequately addressed before moving forward with the project.