Commission discusses Highland Lake deep drawdown timing and application guidance

The Inland Wetlands Watercourse Commission discussed preparations for next winter’s Highland Lake deep drawdown and asked staff to broaden homeowner notifications and provide clearer application guidance.

Commissioners said the drawdown will begin Oct. 1 and noted a two-month minimum. Staff told the commission that many applicants will need engineered walls and surveyor reports as part of applications associated with a deep drawdown. Commissioners discussed the possibility that applicants who plan work may be slowed by surveyor and engineer availability and urged the town to encourage early applications.

Commissioners instructed staff to include a notification about the deep drawdown in routine mailings (for example, water or sewer bills) so shoreline homeowners receive advance notice. Discussion also addressed whether the commission can set an internal deadline for receiving applications; staff said they would inquire but expressed skepticism about stopping people from applying, noting legal limits on preventing applications.

Commission members recalled that the last major drawdown occurred during the pandemic when remote meetings made participation easier; this year all meetings will be in person, which could affect scheduling and review timelines. Staff said they will continue outreach through the Highland Lake Watershed Association and other local groups to get information to potential applicants.

Ending: Staff will continue outreach, explore whether a formal application deadline is legally possible, and add drawdown notices to future town mailings to encourage early applications.