Mooring and floating‑platform proposal in West Falmouth Harbor continued for professional depth and shellfish surveys
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Summary
A proposal to install eco‑moorings and seasonal floats in West Falmouth Harbor was continued after the applicant presented revised bathymetry; commissioners requested up‑to‑date professional water‑depth surveys and shellfish/ eelgrass input from the Harbor Master and shellfish constable before proceeding.
The commission continued a proposal from the Chappaqua/Chappaqua Yacht Club to place eco‑moorings and seasonal sailing floats in West Falmouth Harbor so the applicant can provide current professional bathymetric and shellfish/ eelgrass data.
Mike Jackson presented revised bathymetric mapping derived from an April 2022 survey that his contractor re‑referenced to mean low‑low water. He said the mapped channel areas showed "about 4 to 6 feet" at mean low‑low water in the proposed mooring area and described an eco‑mooring design using helical screws and bungee‑supported chain. Jackson said infill surveys and further consultation with the Harbor Master and shellfish constable would be conducted as a condition of moving forward.
Commissioners and staff emphasized three primary areas of ConCom jurisdiction for this project: water depth (bathymetry), eelgrass (seasonal surveys are required), and shellfish resources. Several commissioners said they require an up‑to‑date professional survey (infill bathymetry) and an independent shellfish survey rather than relying solely on the shellfish constable. One commissioner noted eelgrass is deciduous and cannot be reliably surveyed during winter months and asked that the applicant provide surveys timed for the appropriate season.
After discussion the commission voted unanimously to continue the hearing to March 25 to allow the applicant to obtain professional survey data and further input from the Harbor Master and shellfish officials.
Why it matters: The mooring and float proposal would place structures and moorings in harbor waters where depth, eelgrass beds and shellfish resources can be affected. The commission required current, seasonally appropriate data and external resource-agency input before further action.
Next steps: The applicant will secure a professional infill bathymetric survey and shellfish/ eelgrass assessments and return with updated data and any revised plans on March 25; staff will incorporate Harbor Master and shellfish constable comments into the record.