2015.10.08 Staff Report
To: Conservation Commission
From: Sarah LaValley
RE: Staff Report, October 8 Commission Meeting
Date: October 7, 2015
5:30 PM – Continuation: Notice of Intent for installation of a stormwater outfall
related to the Hinckley St reconstruction project within riverfront (Mill River), and
buffer zone. Northampton Dept of Public Works, 122 Federal St, Map ID 30B-85
The applicant has requested a continuation, with no discussion to be held at this meeting, until
October 22, 2015, at 5:30 PM
Recommendation: Continue the hearing to allow the applicant to continue alternatives analysis.
MassDEP has suggested that when the hearing resumes, the NOI presentation be started from the
beginning. This will allow new Commissioners to participate.
5:30 PM – Request for Determination of Applicability to determine if soil removal
related to an oil release is subject to the Wetlands Protection Act or Northampton
Wetlands Ordinance. Applicant Szawloski Potato Farms, DCR Norwottuck Rail Trail
Property off Damon Road, Map ID 25A-176
Application Overview:
The application proposes to remove soil contaminated by an oil spill in an outflow to the Connecticut
River. Soil will be excavated as needed to achieve acceptable limits, and stone and sand placed in the
excavated area. An absorbent boom will be used to prevent any oil from entering the River, and the
water in the swale will be diverted around the work area.
The applicant has indicated that recent testing has indicated that contamination is still readily
apparent in the sediment and that removal is necessary. A vactor truck will be parked next to the
bike path and suction hose will be extended down the slope to the excavation area. Contractors will
excavate by hand into buckets then suctioned into the vactor truck
Consistency with the Wetlands Protection Act and Northampton Wetlands Ordinance
The work as proposed should not constitute an alteration to the riverfront, and the measures taken during
construction will prevent any contamination from migrating.
Staff Recommendations:
Staff’s primary concerns were whether removal of the soil were necessary given the time elapsed
since the spill, and access to the area, due to the steep slopes. The work area has already been
disturbed in prior stabilization efforts. The Commission should discuss whether stone is necessary
given the small amount of soil to be removed. Issue a negative determination by checking box 2, to
indicate that the work is within an area subject to protection (riverfront) but will not constitute an
alteration. Include the following conditions:
NHESP signoff must be received prior to work on the project
All heavy equipment shall remain at the top of the slope.
The Commission shall be notified 48 hours prior to work occurring, and again when work is
complete.
Conservation Commission Staff Report 1
October 8, 2015