The Town of Stratford Inland Wetlands Commission convened on May 15, 2024, to address several pressing issues regarding land development and environmental regulations. The meeting began with discussions surrounding the enforcement of tree removal regulations and the implications of non-compliance.

A significant point of discussion was the enforcement of permits for tree removal, with members expressing concerns about individuals who cut down trees without proper authorization. The commission highlighted the importance of educating landowners about regulations, particularly those related to wetlands, to prevent future violations. One member emphasized that ignorance of the law should not serve as an excuse for non-compliance, drawing a parallel to traffic laws where lack of knowledge does not exempt one from penalties.

The commission then shifted focus to a specific case involving Nicholas Owen, a land developer who had previously received a cease and desist order for unauthorized tree removal on a town right-of-way. Owen presented a formal restoration plan, which included replanting trees to compensate for those that were cut down. He clarified that the trees removed were part of an approved plan for the subdivision, although the necessary permits had not been obtained for their removal.

Owen detailed the restoration plan, indicating that the cost of replanting would be substantial, as the town typically requires a bond of $500 per tree to cover the costs of planting and maintenance for the first year. He acknowledged the oversight in not contacting the wetlands officer before proceeding with the tree removal and expressed a commitment to comply with all regulations moving forward.

The commission members engaged in a thorough discussion about the number of trees removed compared to those being replanted. Concerns were raised about the ecological impact of the removal, with one member noting that some trees can hold significant economic value due to the environmental services they provide.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the commission's commitment to enforcing environmental regulations while also seeking to educate landowners about their responsibilities. The restoration plan proposed by Owen was a step towards rectifying the situation, with the commission emphasizing the importance of compliance to protect the town's natural resources. The commission plans to review the restoration plan further and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent similar issues in the future.