Agent reports site inspections; commission asks for engineering plan for Shoddy Mill remediation

Wetlands Agent Alyssa Barroso updated the Inland Wetlands Commission on multiple active sites at the Oct. 22 meeting, highlighting early stabilization measures and a remediation discussion at 65 Shoddy Mill.

At 1048 Brandy Street, Barroso said a swimming-pool installation has begun, silt fencing is in place and she will inspect the site later in the week. At 180 Bolton Center, she reported that excavation for a septic system at an unfinished house is scheduled next week and recommended full strawing and silt-control measures; she noted many trees and roots that may make standard silt-fence approaches less effective.

A lengthy discussion focused on 65 Shoddy Mill, where previous unauthorized filling turned into a remediation matter. Barroso said the parcel is held in a trust while the owner is incarcerated; soil scientist Richard Snarskey had flagged the original wetland line. Barroso reported observing that wetlands are returning in areas of the former fill. The commission agreed not to disturb more than necessary, asked the excavation contractor to provide engineering plans and specifications, and said slope remediation (the minutes referenced a 3:1 slope) and invasive-species maintenance are required prior to further disturbance.

Barroso also reported a site visit at 271 Hop River Road related to a trail connection to the Hop River Trail; she noted a steep trail approach and suggested switchbacks might be necessary and that she will review approved plans to confirm whether wetlands impacts require the developer to appear before the commission.

Chair Ross Lally summarized the commission’s consensus that the Shoddy Mill site should be remediated with engineered plans available for review and that disturbance beyond necessary stabilization should be avoided.