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Canaan chairman raises concern over beaver blockage at Route 126 culvert ahead of 2027 repairs
Summary
Chairman Mark Burdick reported beaver activity obstructing the Route 126 culvert at Tinker Brook is raising upstream water levels; commissioners agreed beaver-exclusion measures should be considered when the culvert is replaced during planned 2027 highway work.
Chairman Mark Burdick told the commission on April 20 that beavers continue to obstruct the culvert under Route 126 at Tinker Brook, contributing to a rise in the upstream water table.
Members discussed the potential benefits of incorporating beaver-exclusion measures when the culvert is replaced; Susan Kelsey said she would share the commission’s concern with First Selectman Barger, who previously informed Kelsey that the Route 126 section is scheduled for repair in 2027. The commission agreed that exclusion measures at the time of culvert replacement could help limit future blockages and associated water-table impacts.
The commission did not adopt any formal directive or select specific exclusion technologies at the meeting; Chairman Burdick said he would attempt to contact DEEP to obtain clarification on the regulatory permissibility and any restrictions for water-diversion or modification activities related to stream work.
