Manor Ridge LLC cleared for raised boardwalk and native revegetation at Turtleback Road South property

The Inland Wetlands Commission unanimously approved an application from Manor Ridge LLC at 92 Turtleback Road South to install a timber pedestrian bridge and raised boardwalk through wetlands, remove invasive plants by hand, and revegetate with native wetland and upland species.

Lead agent Paul Fusco described a roughly 30-foot timber bridge to span a steep stream channel, raised boardwalk sections anchored with a diamond-pier/helical pier system to avoid machinery in the wetlands, and hand removal of invasives (Japanese stiltgrass, barberry and poison ivy) followed by an extensive revegetation plan. Fusco said no trees were proposed for removal in the application and that recent dead-tree removals had been coordinated with staff; newly planted trees on the property were paused until final permit issuance.

Director Kathleen Holland recommended two special conditions: a landscape architect's final inspection report confirming compliance upon completion of landscaping activities, and submission of as-built drawings for permanent structures and trails. Commissioners discussed wood-chip path materials, stability of a steep approach from the driveway (where boulders and plantings will stabilize the slope) and the bridge profile (applicant said a longer span avoids in-stream supports). Chair Angela Jamieson made the motion to approve with Holland's conditions; Commissioner Sandy Redden seconded and the permit passed unanimously.