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I <br /> Town of Mashpee Conservation Commission <br /> 16 Great Neck Road North <br /> Mashpee, MA 02649 <br /> (This space is reserved for topics that the Chairman did not reasonably anticipate would be discussed). <br /> *NOTE: INDIVIDUAL HEARINGS WILL BE LIMITED TO 15 MINUTES IN LENGTH <br /> (More complex proposals may be granted additional time, if necessary,by the Chair) <br /> NOI 275 Quinaquisset Avenue— Cranberry Point Wetland Restoration, Troy Miller, 43- <br /> Southworth Mashpee Properties, LLC. Ecological Restoration Limited Project for proposed 3409 <br /> restoration of former cranberry bogs, restore the freshwater stream wetland complex. <br /> (Representative: Fuss & O'Neill on behalf of Baxter Nye) <br /> Mr. Sahl recused himself from the discussion and vote on this matter. <br /> The applicant explained that the project focuses on restoring natural hydrology by removing berms, <br /> culverts, and internal ditching associated with historic cranberry farming operations, regrading the site, and <br /> reestablishing a more natural, sinuous stream channel connected to its floodplain. The work also includes <br /> surface roughening, creation of varied wetland habitats, and limited upland buffer restoration. The goal is to <br /> improve ecological function, including water storage, habitat diversity, and nutrient attenuation. <br /> It was noted that the project is being reviewed under a separate Notice of Intent at the request of <br /> MassDEP, although it remains functionally tied to a related development proposal on an adjacent parcel. The <br /> restoration would not proceed independently of that development. <br /> Commission members asked questions regarding construction sequencing, timeline, and hydrologic <br /> impacts. The applicant indicated that construction would proceed from downstream to upstream and is <br /> anticipated to take approximately two to three months. It was further explained that the project is expected to <br /> reduce flow velocities, increase flood storage, and improve downstream water quality by enhancing nutrient <br /> and sediment retention before discharge to Shoestring Bay. <br /> Additional discussion addressed upstream cranberry operations, with the applicant noting that the <br /> restored system would function as a natural filter and provide overall environmental benefit. Questions were <br /> also raised regarding wildlife impacts and seasonality; the applicant stated that the site currently provides <br /> limited habitat due to its altered condition and that restoration would enhance habitat value without significant <br /> adverse impacts. <br /> The Commission discussed the relationship between the restoration and the associated development, <br /> confirming that both proposals are being reviewed concurrently and are dependent upon one another. Peer <br /> review of the project had previously been completed in connection with the broader proposal. <br /> At the applicant's request, and consistent with ongoing MEPA review, the Commission voted to continue <br /> the bearing to a date to be determined. <br /> MOTION: To continue 275 Quinaquisset Avenue to a date to be determined. <br /> Motion by: Sandi Godfrey Seconded by: Paul Colombo <br /> Discussion: The Commission discussed the final LEC peer review report, <br /> noting that concerns had been raised regarding the extent of <br /> proposed disturbance. Members indicated that these issues <br /> 3 <br />