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Plympton commission approves Brook Street/Route 44 interconnection with seasonal habitat protections
Summary
The commission approved an electrical interconnection for the Bishops Highway Solar project off Brook Street and Route 44, including a waiver for BVW expanded no‑alteration zone disturbance and a requirement to avoid work during the Plymouth gentian flowering/fruiting season unless a botanist survey and 'No Take' letter are provided.
The Plympton Conservation Commission unanimously approved an electrical interconnection for the Bishops Highway Solar project off Brook Street and Route 44 on May 5, placing timing and habitat conditions to protect the Plymouth gentian in priority habitat.
Zach Farkes, the project presenter, told the commission that third‑party reviewer Ecosystem Solutions, Inc. (ESI) and a Kimley Horn response had informed the project’s revisions. Commissioners recorded that because the site lies in Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) Priority Habitat for the Plymouth gentian, no work shall occur between early July and late September unless a qualified botanist confirms the final limit of disturbance contains no suitable habitat and NHESP issues a 'No Take' letter; the commission may defer to NHESP/DFW recommendations when provided.
Groundwork and mitigation: Commissioners discussed below‑ground trenching versus above‑ground utility poles. Chair Rick Burnet noted trenching would be more invasive on steep slopes; above‑ground poles require more tree cutting but avoid stumping and substantial soil disturbance. Project representative Zach Farkes confirmed no trees outside the Limit of Work would be cut.
Fees and conditions: Agent Brian Vasa reminded the applicant that outstanding filing fees of $9,356 must be paid before any work on the project may begin. Vasa also reviewed draft special conditions that the commission and project team agreed upon.
Motions and vote: Commissioner Tim Ferraro moved to approve the project under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and to authorize the agent to issue a written decision; the motion passed by unanimous roll call. Ferraro also moved to approve a waiver for disturbance within the BVW's 25–70 expanded no‑alteration zone, finding the applicant met the burden of proof and that the project offered public benefits including pollution reduction and increased clean energy; that motion passed unanimously.
Next steps: The agent will prepare the written decision and conditions; a qualified botanist survey and NHESP documentation are required before any work during the Plymouth gentian season.
