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Northampton_23-0021_9.19.2022.pdf September 19, 2023 James Rynes Massachusetts Electric Company 170 Data Drive Waltham MA 02451 Northampton Conservation Commission City Hall 210 Main Street Room 11 Northampton MA 01060 RE: Applicant: James Rynes, MECo Project Location: Roadway Right-of-Way (River Road) Project Description: Remove and relocate utility poles DEP Wetlands File No.: 246-0772 NHESP Tracking No.: 23-0021 Dear Commissioners & Applicant: The applicant listed above has submitted a Notice of Intent with project plans (dated 4/22/2022) to the Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program of the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife (the “Division”), in compliance with the rare wildlife species section of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act Regulations (310 CMR 10.59). MA WETLANDS PROTECTION ACT (WPA) Based on a review of the information that was provided and the information that is currently contained in our database, the Division has determined that this project, as currently proposed, will not adversely affect the actual Resource Area Habitat of state-protected rare wetland wildlife species. Therefore, it is our opinion that this project meets the state-listed species performance standard for the issuance of an Order of Conditions. Please note that this determination addresses only the matter of rare wetland wildlife habitat and does not pertain to other wildlife habitat issues that may be pertinent to the proposed project. MA ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT (MESA) Based on a review of the information that was provided, the Division has determined that this project, as currently proposed, appears to be exempt from MESA review pursuant to 321 CMR 10.14 (11). Any changes to the proposed project or any additional work beyond that shown on the project plans may require a filing with the Division pursuant to the MESA. NHESP No. 23-0021, Page 2 Please note that this determination addresses only the matter of state-listed species and their habitats. If you have any questions about this letter, please contact Lauren Glorioso, Endangered Species Review Biologist, at lauren.glorioso@mass.gov or 508-389-6361. Sincerely, Everose Schlüter, Ph.D. Assistant Director Cc: MA DEP Western Regional Office Melissa Coady, Tighe & Bond