Farmington Wetlands Commission Tackles Pavilion Plans and Residential Projects in Latest Meeting
By Jack Beckett, The Farmington Mercury
In an evening of thoughtful deliberation, the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission (IWWC) met on September 4, 2023, to make crucial decisions affecting local landscapes in Farmington. From the replacement of a beloved Winding Trails structure to a homeowner’s backyard project, the meeting highlighted the delicate balance between development and environmental preservation in our town.
Winding Trails Pavilion Replacement Gets Green Light
If you’ve enjoyed the scenic charm of Winding Trails, you know how vital its structures are to the community’s recreational experience. At the meeting, Scott Brown, representing Winding Trails, presented the commission with plans to replace a deteriorating gazebo with an 18×24-foot open-air pavilion. The new pavilion, designed in the popular “Unalam” glulam beam style, will blend with several other structures on the property.
“This pavilion will follow the same style as two-thirds of our existing pavilions, keeping everything consistent while opening up more space for the community to gather,” Brown explained to the commission.
The project will be located near the upgraded pickleball and tennis courts, replacing a rotted-out gazebo. While the design and location were quickly approved, the commission took the time to discuss erosion control measures for the construction phase. Brown assured the commission that they would follow all required guidelines, including the installation of hay bales and silt fences to protect the surrounding wetlands from potential runoff.
With no further questions, the commission unanimously approved the project, allowing Brown to move forward with building permits. Construction is expected to begin later this month, giving Winding Trails a fresh new space for outdoor activities.
Homeowner’s Deck Project at Wood Pond Road Clears Final Hurdle
Julie, a resident at 108 Wood Pond Road, also came before the commission seeking approval for her backyard project—a 10×25-foot deck with a concrete patio beneath it. While this type of home improvement may seem simple, its proximity to the wetlands required a careful review to ensure no adverse impact on the local environment.
Julie explained that her contractor would use helical piers for the deck’s foundation, minimizing soil disturbance, and all excavation materials would be hauled off-site. The commission expressed concern about protecting the nearby pond during construction, particularly regarding sediment runoff.
With guidance from the town planner, Julie agreed to install hay bales and silt fencing around the project area, ensuring the pond would be safeguarded from any potential erosion during the deck’s construction.
Commissioner Robert Eisner emphasized the importance of keeping the commission informed throughout the project: “Make sure your contractor follows all the appropriate guidelines, and coordinate with the town if anything changes during the process.”
The commission determined the project fell under an incidental residential use, meaning it could proceed without needing a full wetlands application. The project was approved, allowing Julie to start construction by late October.
Ongoing Investigation at 17 Vine Hill Road Awaits Site Walk
In another ongoing matter, the commission provided a brief update on the 17 Vine Hill Road show cause hearing, where land disturbances have raised environmental concerns. Commissioner Bruce Stachan reminded the board of the scheduled site walk on Wednesday, September 13, at 5:30 p.m., allowing them to assess the conditions firsthand. Stachan noted some progress on the site, including the successful regrowth of ryegrass in areas where erosion was previously a concern. However, more work is needed to ensure the site is fully restored.
The commission expects to make further determinations at the next regular meeting on September 18, after completing their site visit.
Looking Ahead: Farmington’s Environmental Stewardship
With the recent approval of several projects, the IWWC remains focused on its core mission: maintaining the health of Farmington’s wetlands while balancing community development. Decisions like the Winding Trails pavilion and Wood Pond Road deck may seem small in scale, but they represent a broader commitment to environmental stewardship. Each project is reviewed not just for its immediate impact but for its long-term effects on Farmington’s natural resources.
As Farmington continues to grow, so too does the responsibility to protect its wetlands, watercourses, and open spaces. Through careful deliberation and a focus on sustainable growth, the IWWC is ensuring that Farmington’s green spaces will thrive for generations to come.
A Humble (and Hilarious) Thanks to Our Sponsor
Before we wrap things up, we’d be remiss not to give a huge thank-you to Farmington Storage, located at 155 Scott Swamp Road. Whether you’re storing that canoe you swear you’ll use next summer or even a worn-out gazebo from Winding Trails, Farmington Storage has you covered! Their storage units are so spacious, you could probably hide your whole to-do list in there. Give them a call at 860-777-4001—your clutter will thank you, and so will we.
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