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Homeowner told to consult wetland scientist after unauthorized clearing at Kimberly Lane
Summary
The agency amended an enforcement letter for 18 Kimberly Lane after staff found significant clearing and grading in a regulated area; homeowner Sherry/ Mr. Young apologized and agreed to work with staff on a planting/restoration plan and a near-term check-in (August).
The Madison Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Agency discussed enforcement action at 18 Kimberly Lane on July 6 after staff discovered substantial clearing and grading inside the wetland review area.
Maria Patelo (agency staff) described the clearing and the presence of flowing water through the disturbed area. Homeowner Sherry/Young (identified in the record as Mr. Young) joined the meeting, apologized for the unauthorized work and said he had removed dead trees and planned to rebuild a stone wall and replant portions of the parcel. The homeowner said he stopped work when staff flagged the wetlands.
Agency members recommended amending the enforcement letter to require consultation with a wetland scientist and a planting/restoration plan that prioritizes native wetland vegetation in the flagged area and prevents conversion to lawn within the wetland. Mr. Young said the wetland area is already re-sprouting and agreed to work with staff; the agency asked him to report back by the August meeting or notify staff if he needs additional time. Agency members suggested native wetland mixes and pollinator-friendly plantings and emphasized quick replanting to limit invasive recolonization.
The agency did not record a formal vote to levy penalties at the meeting; instead members agreed on a remedial process: an amended enforcement letter with recommended plantings and a timeline for follow-up. Maria Patelo will prepare the amended enforcement correspondence and coordinate next steps with the homeowner.
Why it matters: unauthorized clearing inside wetland review areas can alter hydrology, increase erosion and allow invasive species to establish. The agency’s approach focuses on bringing the site into compliance through a remediation plan and specialist recommendations rather than immediate punitive measures.
Next steps: staff will issue an amended enforcement letter requesting a wetland-planting plan developed or reviewed by a wetland scientist and will request an update at the August meeting; Mr. Young agreed to cooperate and coordinate with Maria Patelo.
