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Conservation commission seeks briefing after test pits and clearing on 13-acre Bridal property
Summary
Conservation-commission members and residents told the select board they observed tree clearing and test pits on town-owned Bridal land and asked for consultant briefings; staff said the work is an environmental survey/test-pit phase and named the consultant and a September update date.
Several members of the conservation commission and a resident raised concerns about disturbance on the 13-acre parcel the town acquired at the former Bridal site, asking the select board for clearer notice when contractors conduct test pits or move material near wetlands.
John Racine, identifying himself as representing TriPyramid, said he had observed excavators and knocked-down saplings in areas between Mike’s Stream and the river, and asked the board to inform the conservation commission before work proceeds. "There have been three areas where they've gone in with a tractor and knocked down some trees and disturbed some areas," Racine said, asking whether the commission could be notified about the activity.
Staff replied the work appears to be test pits and an environmental survey required under state procedures and said the consultant would be asked to brief the select board and conservation commission. At the meeting staff identified the consultant as Mark Henderson of Anandoc Environmental Consulting and said Henderson is expected to present an update at the select board’s Sept. 16 meeting.
Board members acknowledged the commission’s interest and discussed the need to clarify shoreline protection boundaries and whether borings were occurring in shoreland-protection zones. Staff said the survey would inform what state-mandated actions are required, including possible landfill capping and monitoring wells.
The board agreed to invite the consultant for a public update and to improve interboard communication so conservation commissioners receive notice when work begins on town land.
