Conservation trust seeks demolition at 202 Route 28; commission issues Negative 2 determination

The Harvest Conservation Commission voted to issue a Negative 2 determination for work at 202 Route 28 (Map 11, Parcel T‑6), allowing demolition of a dilapidated structure located in land subject to coastal storm flowage. The applicant and representatives from the Harwich Conservation Trust described the project as a two‑phase effort: a near‑term acquisition and demolition followed later by a separate application for a wheelchair‑accessible trail and boardwalk to create public marsh viewing opportunities.

Michael Locke, executive director of the Harwich Conservation Trust, said the compact of Cape Cod conservation trusts is acting as a buy‑and‑hold agent “to give Harvest Conservation Trust enough time to raise the funds to offset the purchase price.” Brandon, the trust’s protection specialist, told the commission that the proposed work is limited to surface demolition within the floodplain and does not require grade changes or work in other wetland buffers. Staff recommended a Negative 2 determination because the demolition, as proposed, “will not have an adverse impact on the area or its interests.”

Commissioners asked for clarifications about invasive species treatment and erosion controls; staff said knotweed and other invasives will be treated by a licensed state applicator and recommended stating temporary stabilization (native seed mixes) if the cleared area remains open for more than a few months. With no public objections from attendees present at the meeting, the commission made and seconded a motion to approve the Negative 2 determination, and the motion carried.