Agency approves restoration of historic Cascade Brook channel and culvert replacement at Audubon property

On June 17 the Inlands, Wetlands and Watercourse Agency approved application 1775 from the National Audubon Society (185 East Flat Hill Road) to restore a historic drainage channel for Cascade Brook and replace a failing driveway culvert.

Applicants and contractors described a two‑phase plan: reconstruct historic hand‑laid stone walls to reestablish the channel (removing and reusing existing stone), over‑excavate where necessary, install drainage behind the rebuilt walls, line the channel bed with riprap and install two 36‑inch corrugated drainage pipes at a previously failing driveway crossing. The project includes phased sequencing timed to avoid the camp season, hand removal of pond overgrowth, transplanting or replacing vegetation, and staging equipment outside wetland areas to minimize disturbance. Contractors emphasized a hand‑laid stone appearance with hidden mortar to preserve historic character.

The draft resolution included construction conditions (dry‑season work windows, erosion controls, and reuse of stockpiled stone). Commissioners asked technical questions about pipe sizing, clear span options and excavation setbacks; contractors explained the twin 36‑inch design was selected to handle predicted flows and that much of the work will be completed incrementally to maintain flow during construction. A motion to approve the application carried; one member registered opposition on the voice vote.