Owner seeks extended invasive-knockdown plan at 122 Gardner Road; Commission closes hearing under advisement

Teresa Sprague of BlueFlex Design presented the Commission with a refiled notice of intent on Sept. 11 to continue invasive- species management and restoration at 122 Gardner Road in Woods Hole. Sprague said the team seeks to control a significant reinfestation of Japanese knotweed and other invasive species by implementing cutting and targeted systemic-herbicide application in early fall and maintaining follow-up cutting for three growing seasons starting in 2025. The plan includes replanting native shrubs and grasses in any areas where native vegetation shows degradation and delivering a follow-up tree inventory to conservation staff as requested.Sprague told commissioners she had previously completed successful restoration plantings (2016 onward) but that knotweed and other invasives from neighboring properties had reinfested the site. She said a land-swap under discussion would allow neighboring managers to treat knotweed off-site to help long-term control and that the homeowners had constructed the previously requested kayak rack; she shared photos with staff confirming the rack was in place. Staff told the Commission they were comfortable with the proposed restoration and recommended closing the hearing and taking the matter under advisement. Commissioners praised the detailed monitoring plan and urged continued coordination with staff. The Commission voted unanimously to close the hearing and take the application under advisement.