White Lake Woods proposes expansion to 149 acres; state agency urges wetland study

WHITE LAKE WOODS, Tamworth — White Lake Woods LLC presented an application to expand an existing excavation to about 149 acres, removing roughly 6.9 million cubic yards of material, at the Tamworth Planning Board meeting on April 22.

Jim Rines of Verdantas said the expanded proposal covers previously unpermitted areas and that the operation would retain its previously approved hours and traffic levels. He described site controls including a 12‑foot internal access path, a four‑foot vegetated berm and a secure gate, and said the site is internally drained with no off‑site runoff.

The state flagged ecological concerns. The State of New Hampshire Division of Forests and Lands sent the board a letter describing the presence of a kettle‑hole bog system and recommended a study of potential wetland impacts. An abutter, Mr. Straw, told the board the nearby kettle bog “sits higher than the ground around it,” raising questions about the excavation's possible effects on local hydrology.

Board members pressed the applicant for additional technical materials, including hydrologist responses and monitoring‑well data Verdantas said it would provide. Two waivers were requested by the applicant: one addressing expanded alteration of terrain approvals for the larger area and another seeking relief from the performance‑bond requirement.

Lianne Prentice moved to continue the hearing to May 27 so the board could review the requested hydrologic and design information; Ann Pollard seconded the motion and it was approved.

The board will review the Verdantas responses to the state letter and the hydrologist's analysis before resuming the hearing on May 27.