Peer reviewer recommends re-flagging after finding multiple wetlands and potential vernal pools at Landauf/Dunstable Road site

Amy Ball, senior associate and ecologist with the Horsley Witten Group, summarized peer-review findings for an Abbreviated Notice of Resource Area Delineation (ANRAD) on the Landauf/Dunstable Road parcel and told the Tyngsborough Conservation Commission the August-sized site contains multiple wetlands and several isolated wetland areas that require confirmation.

"In total, there are sort of three systems," Ball said, describing Wetlands A–F, connectors between E and F, and at least two isolated wetlands that need field confirmation. She also reported potential vernal pools and interior intermittent streams that were not fully confirmed because some observations occurred mid-summer. "We recognize there are some potential vernal pools either identified through field observations of just lower depressions in the resource areas or actually identified as potential vernal pools by the Mass Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program," Ball said, and recommended the commission include appropriate findings in any ORAD issued if those features remain unconfirmed.

Caitlin White of Hancock Associates, the applicant’s wetland scientist, responded that Hancock and the applicant are compiling re-flagging survey data, photographs, and will submit a revised WPA form detailing the exact linear feet the applicant seeks to have confirmed. "We're gonna give you guys a new WPA form that has the exact linear feet that we're looking to get confirmed," White said. She added that Hancock completed multiple field visits and that the team will provide any additional evidence requested by the peer reviewer.

Horsley Witten also recommended the commission consider interior intermittent streams and the role of a forest-cutting plan observed on the property; the peer reviewer suggested the commission might consult the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) to confirm whether forest cutting approval and best management practices were followed and whether any further findings are warranted.

Commissioners asked for clarification of which wetlands and flags correspond to the plan’s labels and requested applicant-supplied documentation confirming the flagged boundaries. The commission agreed to continue the matter to the July 28 meeting to allow the applicant time to submit the revised WPA form, re-flagging survey, and photos for Horsley Witten to review.

Next steps: applicant Hancock Associates to compile and file field-verified flagging and the revised WPA form; Horsley Witten and the commission will review the resubmitted materials ahead of the next hearing.