Stockbridge commission discusses shortened shoreline wall, updated plantings at 2 Cherry Street; chair moves to close hearing

The Stockbridge Conservation Commission on July 14 reviewed updated shoreline plans for a 2 Cherry Street project that reduce a proposed stone wall from about 90 feet to 59 feet and add native plantings to address erosion.

During the hearing, a commission member noted that applicants had been asked to show 59 feet of wall "instead of 90 feet," and that the wall would be built in three shorter sections rather than a continuous 90-foot span, which preserves exposed bedrock and reduces removal. The commission discussed preserving large bedrock outcrops and avoiding damage to tree roots.

Commission members reviewed a planting plan that called for roughly 10–12 native woody shrubs spaced along the disturbed shoreline to provide erosion control and naturalization. A member suggested lowbush blueberries and other native shrubs, while others recommended matching existing woody vegetation along the bank to improve establishment. The discussion also covered topdressing the lawn area with about 1–2 inches of topsoil or sand to cover exposed roots and make the area more attractive.

The applicant’s representative agreed to produce a revised drawing incorporating the commissioners’ on-the-ground sketches and to circulate photos of the site. The chair moved to approve the updated plans and close the hearing; commissioners discussed next steps for producing the final drawing and a photographic record.

The commission did not record a roll-call vote on the motion in the transcript; the applicant was asked to submit final plans and photos before the file is closed.

The commission also confirmed that this hearing had included a site visit by several members, and members agreed to follow up on the planting species and spacing before issuing a final order of conditions.