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Resident urges probe of mining expansion near Buffamville wetlands
Summary
Eric Borderson asked the Town of Charlton Conservation Commission to review permits and investigate water-quality and tree-removal concerns tied to a mining operation at 73 Porter Village Road, citing discolored ponds, possible discharges, and the absence of a reclamation plan.
Eric Borderson submitted a written public comment to the Town of Charlton Conservation Commission on May 4 urging the panel to review permits and investigate environmental impacts tied to a mining operation at 73 Porter Village Road.
"My family has lived in this area for over 30 years, and we have observed significant changes as the operation has grown," Borderson wrote, saying the site "is now encroaching closer to sensitive wetland resources." He asked the commission to assess the proximity of operations to the Buffamville wetlands, investigate the condition and water quality of newly created retaining ponds that he said had turned a "natural green color," and confirm whether tree removal during past expansions was properly authorized.
Borderson also requested a publicly available reclamation or restoration plan for the site after operations cease, and raised potential impacts to local wildlife, saying habitat destruction and increased noise "are likely affecting species that depend on this area."
The commission did not rule on permits at the meeting. The Chair recommended taking Borderson's letter under advisement so staff can investigate historical approvals and water-quality questions before making any recommendation. The Chair said the matter "started prior to my position" and that the commission will look into details before acting.
Next steps: the commission will review permits and related records and follow up with Borderson; no formal enforcement action or vote on permits was taken at the May 4 meeting.
