Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Dredging Oyster Impacts topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commissioner asks staff to investigate reported dredging mud that may have buried oysters near Norwalk City docks
Summary
Commissioners heard that dredging at the new city docks deposited mud in the intertidal zone; a resident said oysters growing there appeared to be covered and staff said they will investigate and report back.
Chair Steve called the July 9 meeting of the Norwalk Shellfish Commission to order and the group quickly moved to a report about a shore-side dredging operation at the city docks after a resident raised a concern that dredged material had been deposited in the intertidal zone.
Pete Johnson said he observed workers “taking the dredge, taking the mud up, and throw it on the bank,” and added that “their oysters do grow there... they’re covering them all up.” The commission’s chair asked city marine staff to follow up. Justin Stedman, representing the Norwalk Police marine unit and harbor staff, said he had not previously received reports but would investigate and get back to the commission: “This is the 1st I’m hearing about it. I’ll definitely start—I’ll take a look at that. I can get back to you.”
The exchange led commissioners to recommend that Justin coordinate with the harbor master to confirm whether the material was being stockpiled onshore, whether the work followed permit conditions, and whether natural shellfish beds in the intertidal zone may have been smothered. The commission did not take formal action beyond requesting staff follow-up.
Why it matters: Natural intertidal shellfish beds are ecologically and economically important in Norwalk; if dredged material was deposited on or near beds, it could reduce harvestable shellfish and affect habitat. The commission’s follow-up will determine whether permit conditions or remediation are needed.
What’s next: Justin Stedman told commissioners he will investigate the report and speak with the harbor master; staff will report any findings back to the commission at a future meeting.
