Development News for Wareham, Massachusetts

Golf Course Runoff Remediation Plan Presented for Cranberry Bog Impact

Riverhawk Environmental presented a remediation plan for runoff from a golf course that impacted an adjacent cranberry bog. The golf course disturbed soil, causing sandy runoff into the bog, which is undergoing natural restoration. Temporary storm water ponds and siltation controls were added, and affected areas were seeded. The plan involves improving and enlarging two pond areas, installing outlet control structures, armoring sides with rip rap and gabion baskets, and enhancing a swale. A soil berm will redirect water from a large hill away from the bog. The plan also includes revegetating disturbed areas. Concerns were raised about the need for separate NOIs for the golf course work and the bog restoration, as the adjacent property owner has not consented to work on their land. The commission will continue the hearing to allow for outreach to the property owner and potential enhancement of erosion controls on the golf course.

Failed Septic System Replacement Proposed with Nitrogen-Reducing Technology

Peter Lions, representing Colin Civil Engineering Group, presented a proposal for the repair of a failed residential septic system at 22 A Streetway. The lot is small (8,800 sq ft) and adjacent to BVW. The proposed system is gravity-fed, replacing the existing tank and leaching field with a denitrification system and a new leaching field, ensuring all components are at least 50 feet from wetlands. The area is existing lawn with minimal grade changes. Sedimentation control will be implemented. The Board of Health has approved the plan. Work has not begun, but test pits and stakes have been placed. No endangered species concerns were noted.

Cesspool Upgrade to Title 5 Septic System Approved Near Coastal Resources

Sami from JC Engineering presented a project for Two Spin Drift Lane involving the upgrade of an existing cesspool to a Title 5 septic system. The property is within a velocity zone and abuts a coastal dune, salt marsh, and coastal bank. The new system will be located on the northeast side, furthest from resource areas. Erosion control will be implemented, and Natural Heritage has determined no adverse effects on endangered species. The cesspool will be pumped out and filled with sand. Concerns were raised about equipment access, potential tree removal (avoided), and the decommissioning of the old cesspool. The project was approved with a standard order of conditions.

Shed Replacement Approved for Emotional Reasons

Diana Dawson requested to replace a shed at 20 Washington Drive. The existing shed was removed two weeks prior. The replacement shed will be in the same spot, of the same size and type, to remove a painful memory. The commission inquired about the fire pit, which was built by her husband in 2020. The hearing was closed, and a recommendation of negative 2 and negative 6 was made, leading to approval.