01/14/2019 CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes

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6 Board of Selectmen Minutes January 14,2019 Regarding the typical'Title V septic system it was noted that most of the new homes require pumping on a two to three year basis. However, in terms of nitrogen remediation,the pumping of a standard Title V system does little to decrease nitrogen. It was noted there are (10)treatment plants in the Town of Mashpee. Planning Board member Joe Cummings asked if there are requirements for monitoring,repairs and upgrades. State regulations require conformance with respect to permitting and it is necessary for the permit holder to conduct improvements and repairs as well as conduct upgrades to treat effluent at higher levels Towns generally do not have the ability to assist with these costs. In addition to nitrogen concerns there are chemicals contaminating the waters. It was agreed onsite septic system management needs to be further discussed. Discussion followed with regards to taking action in a cost effective approach to obtain direct improvement to educate the public in the future wastewater investment for clean water. With the shellfish aquaculture program there are improvements to the Mashpee River in terms of nitrogen removal with monitoring. However,it was determined that a WWTF would realize immediate results of improvement with respect to nitrogen control. Sewer Commission member Joseph Lyons indicated that it is optimum to site a WWTF in the most central location. Board of Health Chair Brian Baumgaertel related concern with respect to the utilization of the shellfish in place of severing. It was conveyed that constructing a treatment plant in proximity to a pond area is worth pursuing as the WWTF would remove phosphorus and other contaminants. Using shellfish as a primary source of nitrogen remediation may not treat the additional contaminants which may create a larger problem. Drew McManus,Conservation Agent suggested the use of PRB's, (permeable reactive barriers) as an adaptive approach for the collection and treatment of contaminated ground water. It was noted the Town of Mashpee applied for grant funding to test this approach,but did not receive funding. The Town of Falmouth is conducting a significant study regarding the use of PRB's. This process uses a carbon source to capture nitrogen. Vegetable oils are also used in this strategy. This option may have some merit to pursue further. Richard York,Director of Natural Resources indicated the shellfish propagation program has been successful, With regards to contaminants such as phosphorus, it was noted that a mussel program being studied for the filtering of contaminants. In discussing this matter, it was noted the Quashnet River is sensitive with a massive amount of need that cannot be addressed solely with shellfish. Mr. Baumgaertel recommended that treatment up-stream be reviewed to remove CVC contaminants, an emerging concern up-gradient.