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Conservation commission approves knotweed removals, asks for engineered plans at Old Louise Mills and plans Lake Attitash compliance letter
Summary
The commission approved a homeowner knotweed‑removal plan, allowed HOA cutting upland of a no‑cut zone, requested engineered plans and bank stabilization at the Old Louise Mills property, discussed enforcement at 25 River Rd., and asked a commissioner to draft a Lake Attitash float compliance letter.
At its Aug. 25, 2024 meeting the Merrimac Conservation Commission addressed several vegetation‑management and enforcement items across town.
Knotweed at 5 Broad St.: Homeowner Kevin Priest presented a knotweed‑control plan and diagram. The commission unanimously allowed removal according to the submitted plan and required the homeowner to notify the commission if he plans to remove any knotweed within resource areas.
Merrimac Square (Old Louise Mills property): Owner Todd Schell attended to discuss tree cutting and ground disturbance within 100 feet of a jurisdictional isolated wetland. The commission told Schell he must submit an engineered plan showing existing conditions and proposed work; required stabilization of the bank and indicated that plantings of trees or shrubs should be included. The Conservation Agent will provide a list of local engineers. The commission deferred further action until the engineered plan is submitted and reviewed.
Merrimac Commons (Main St.): A homeowners association asked to eradicate knotweed in the buffer zone adjacent to a BVW. The commission noted markers placed at the no‑cut zone and allowed residents to cut vegetation on the upland side down to the no‑cut zone; any work proposed within the no‑cut zone or wetlands will require a filing.
25 River Rd. enforcement: The commission discussed a violation at 25 River Rd.; owner Paul Chang did not attend despite prior discussions with the Conservation Agent. The commission asked Mr. Chang to provide an update and to file as soon as possible.
Lake Attitash float: The commission noted a possible mooring regulation violation involving a bottom‑anchored float/swim platform that may require permitting. Commissioner Hockmuth volunteered to draft a letter to the owners outlining Great Ponds rules and including correspondence from the Department of Environmental Protection; the letter will instruct the owners to remove the float until a filing is submitted and a determination is reached.
The commission also asked staff to draft an enforcement letter regarding the 25 River Rd. filing deadlines and possible enforcement actions if a filing is not submitted.
