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Commission approves technical amendments for Escondida Keys restoration project
Summary
The commission approved requested clerical and technical amendments to an order of conditions for a gravel pit stabilization and grassland restoration project at Escondida Keys, while some commissioners expressed reservations about removing certain standard conditions because the approach is novel in the state.
The Gardner Conservation Commission approved amendments to an order of conditions for a gravel-pit stabilization and grassland restoration project at the Escondida Keys Conservation Area.
BSC Group consultant Paul Martin and Merrimack County Land Trust staff explained the amendments were largely clerical corrections and adjustments that align the permit documents with field conditions and the revegetation approach described in the notice of intent. The commission discussed whether removing certain standard seeding and mulching conditions would conflict with the proposed restoration method; staff said the project is an uncommon approach in Massachusetts and that the plan emphasizes natural recolonization of the sand substrate.
One commissioner said he was ‘‘dead set against’’ removing some conditions; others noted the project is the first of its kind in the state and agreed to the proposed amendments. Paul Martin noted that some changes were necessary to match the replication-area plans to field locations. The motion to approve the amendments carried on a voice vote; the transcript records at least one commissioner stating they were not in favor, and the record notes differing views on the novel restoration method.
The commission closed that portion of the hearing and will continue other outstanding items on the parcel’s file as needed.
