09-19-1994 Planning Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Zoning File #1962 September 15, 1994 Page 3 Proposed Wetland Alterations Please review the applicant ’s project description. Exhibit D. Applicant s intent is to excavate approximately 50.000 cu. yds. of material to a depth ranging from 1’ to 10 ’, average depth 4’. This w ill leave an open water area of approximately 7.5 acres, or 2/3 of the wetland. It is important to note what a unique area this is within Orono. and the strong commitment Mr. Dayton has to preserving this remaining ponion of Orono’s "big woods" environment. A walking trail system has developed throughout his acreage over the years, and bicyclers regularly take side trips through the trail system from the Luce Line. Mr. Dayton has stated his intent is that his acreage not to be developed but in one form or another ultimately be kept as open space for the public on a permar^nt basis. His goal with the current wetland project is to enhance the environment. Statt’s comments below regarding certain aspects of the project should be considered as encouraging the project to be accomplished in the environmentally friendly manner that Mr. Dayton proposes, rather than as attempting to create "road bIcKks". Mr. Dayton and Mr. Bowen were kind enough to provide the Planning Commission and staff an opportunity to visit the site on Monday, September 12th. Mr. Dayton’s intent is to create a more scenic open water area which will diversify if not enhance wildlife habitat in the area. At least one attendee expressed concern with the lack of islands for duck habitat. This is an item for discussion. Mr. Bowen notes that creating an island will constitute "fill" in the wetland and will require special review and permits by the Corps of Engineers, and may result in the need to mitigate by creating additional wetland where it does not now exist. If the Fish & Wildlife Serv ice has been consulted as pan of the Corps of Engineers review of this project, it might be appropriate if the applicant provide documentation from USFWS w ith their comments regarding the habitat aspects of the proposal. Spoils Disposal Spoils disposal is intended to take place at two sites within the boundaries of Mr. Dayton’s propeny. Specifically, 20,000 cu. yds. of fill ranging in depth up to 10 ’ will be deposited on the high ground in the area west of the pond over the existing riding ring. Total area to be filled is approximately 2 acres. This area generally drains westward and northward to the wetland located between applicant ’s tennis court and East Long l.,ake Road. This disposal area is approximately 150-500’ horizontally and 20 ’ higher than that wetland. The south disposal area is south of Old l^ng Road covering virtually the entire area of the plat of "Clubhouse Turn" which Mr. Dayton purchased. Spoils at this site will total approximately 33,OOObu. yds., again ranging in depth up to 12’ and in this case covering an area of 3.5 acres. This disposal area is of some concern for the following reasons;