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Nantucket Land Bank request to prune groundsel trees on Washington Street continued after commissioners split on coastal resiliency and view interests
Summary
Nantucket Islands Land Bank requested waivers to prune a small cluster of groundsel (Baccharis) in a coastal dune at Washington Street; commissioners debated erosion resilience versus pedestrian access and continued the item to June 26 for more information.
The Nantucket Islands Land Bank asked the Conservation Commission for permission to prune a small cluster of groundsel (Baccharis) on three adjoining parcels at 70–74 Washington Street. The applicant, represented by Liz Phelps, requested waivers because the work would occur in coastal dune within 25 feet of the coastal beach.
Phelps told the commission the Land Bank’s objective was “to prune the small cluster of groundsel tree to keep control of the vegetation and maintain public and pedestrian access to the site,” and argued the work would have no adverse impact on resource areas and would preserve harbor views along the Washington Street corridor.
Commissioners were divided. Several members — including Commissioner Arjun Turcotte and Commissioner Linda Williams — urged a “wait-and-see” approach, saying the shrubs were small and natural forces (wind and salt spray) would likely limit growth. “I think that’s certainly the appropriate thing to do here… wait and see,” Turcotte said. Williams said she personally agreed the work was premature.
Commissioner Mike Mizzarelli expressed concern that Baccharis can go to seed and spread, and said early removal could limit future, larger projects if the plants became invasive. Other commissioners framed the issue through coastal resiliency: woody vegetation can help hold dunes and provide flood protection. One commissioner said mature shrubs would “be a benefit for the wetland resource areas,” noting the site’s exposure to coastal flooding and sea-level rise.
The commission did not decide on a final condition; the Land Bank asked to continue the application to the June 26 meeting to consult further and to provide additional information if needed. The commission recorded the continuation. No formal order of conditions was issued at the June 5 session.
Ending: The item was continued to June 26; the commission flagged possible conditions it could impose, including conservation restrictions or planting/monitoring requirements, but did not make a final determination on waivers or pruning scope.
