Commission approves mitigation plan for unpermitted work at 342 Rock Road

The Inland Wetlands Commission voted unanimously Jan. 20 to approve a mitigation plan for unpermitted activity at 342 Rock Road that altered a small wetland area.

Soil scientist James McManus (JMM Wetland Consulting Services) reviewed a January 11 report and accompanying planting plan showing removal of an extended 4‑inch sump pump outlet, regrading and a roughly 600‑square‑foot plant restoration area planted with native shrubs (highbush blueberry, red osier dogwood, sweet pepperbush), additional seed mix, and repositioned boulders used as a demarcation to prevent future landscaping incursions. McManus said he inspected the site after the work had been completed and described areas of fill and a small access track used by a compact Kubota. He recommended removal of the extended pipe 10 feet toward the house, removal of surface fill in the disturbed area and installation of the planting scheme and invasive‑control measures.

Commissioners and staff sought assurance that (1) the work would be overseen by a qualified consultant, (2) that heavy equipment use would be minimized and, where used, limited to machines that would not enter intact wetlands, and (3) that a final compliance report would be submitted. The property owner (Mr. Walker) acknowledged the disturbance was not malicious and said he would confirm who would perform the on‑site work.

The commission adopted two special conditions before approving the permit: that the project's consultant (JMM Wetland Consulting Services) must be on site during any mitigation work, and that a final report certifying compliance be submitted to the wetlands office by Nov. 25, 2025. Commissioners also required that any contractor be registered with the town and that a contractor compliance form be filed before work begins.

Ending: The permit was approved unanimously; staff will monitor the restoration and expect a consultant's compliance report at the end of the first growing season.