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Tofutl of Iffittshpce P. O. BOX 1106 MASHPEE• MA 02649 SHELLFISH DEPARTMENT Paul Somerville Shellfish Constable Mashpee Board of Appeals Re: Application for a Boardwalk,Ramp and Floats by David and Diana Damon I have examined the area for the proposed construction and I submit the following comments and recommendation: SITE ANALYSIS I)The area of Great River where this project is proposed is an extremely productive and healthy resource area.The area supports three main species of shellfish:soft-shell clams,quahogs and scallops. 2)The area contains a healthy bed of eel grass in the area between the proposed pier site and the navigational channel. 3)The depth of water around the berthing area (the float) and in the approach path of the vessels is less than three feet.The depth of water on the sides of the floats leading to the main float is less than two feet. 4)There are several other structures of similar design and situation in the • immediate area. COMMENTS ])This is the second time this application has been submitted.The first time through I requested some additional information on the proposal so that I could further evaluate the situation with all the variable known.These included,but were not limited to,distances to nearest navigation channel and the depth of water in that area,sediment analysis,vessel information including size,draft,method of propulsion etc. None of this information was submitted in advance so that I might use it to form a conclusive eval- uation as to potential impacts in what I consider to be an extremely import- ant resource area. 2)This project is designed as a seasonal floating structure rather than a permanent pier with a ramp and float.This presents two problems. A)A floating structure in this depth of water would limit access by shell - fishermen to any shellfish that might be present under the float. B)This type of construction invites the berthing of vessels all along its length.As I have pointed out,this is a productive resource area with extremely shallow depths.The possibility exists that sooner or later a vessel will tie up to that section of the floats.This means the possibility that a vessel might ground out at some point of the tide,or dredge a hole with its propellor.The grounding out could result in the physical destr- uction of shellfish and might also result in the deposition of anti -fouling paint from the vessel.This paint,by its very nature is toxic to many marine organisms including small shellfish.