2024.06.27 Staff Report.pdf
June 27 2024 Staff Report
To: Conservation Commission
From: Sarah LaValley
RE: Staff Report, June 27 2024 Commission Meeting
5:30 PM Request for Determination of Applicability to determine if installtion of
a petroleum absorbent boom is subject to the Wetlands Protection Act or
Northampton Wetlands Ordinance. Saskia Oosting/Eversource. Historic Mill
River Channel, Smith Street/Michelman Ave
Application Overview, Staff Recommendation:
The application proposes installation of a petroleum-absorbent boom across the former Mill
River Channel. The channel area is known to include the presence of historic Manufactured Gas
Plant related sheens and contamination from dense nonaqueous phase liquids from the
Northampton Gas Works (current roundhouse plaza). The boom will be secured across the
channel with stakes. Booms have been deployed as a temporary measure using emergency
permits or other existing (now expired) wetlands permits in the past.
Staff notes that previous booms disappeared during high flow conditions. The Commisison
should discuss the elevation and securing of the boom given the flashiness of the stream system.
If the Commission is satisfied that the boom will remain in place and not be transported (along
with the contamination it may contain) downstream during floods, staff recommends issuance
of a negative determination by checking box 2. Include any conditions arising from discussion
about inspection and flood preparation; standard conditions are not necessary due to the nature
of the work.
5:45 PM Request for Determination of Applicability to determine if wooden trail
crossing is subject to the Wetlands Protection Act or Northampton Wetlands
Ordinance. Northampton Office of Planning & Sustainability, Saw Mill Hills, Map
ID 22-7
Application Overview, Staff Recommendation:
The application proposes installation of an extended wooden boardwalk, crossing a mixture of
seasonally wet upland areas, wetland, and a small intermittent stream. Work is designed to
reduce existing impacts, eliminate ‘trail creep’ from users attempting to avoid wet spots, and stop
mobilized mud from entering the stream. The work will be conducted and funded by New
England Mountain Bike Association.
Staff-assisted application, no specific recommendation. If the Commission agrees that the work
will take place within areas subject to protection, but will not remove, dredge, fill, or alter that
area, issue a negative determination by checking box 2.If the Commission finds that the work will
create an impact, an NOI could be required.