10-10-1994 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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F 2^ning File #1962 ScptcmhcT 15, 1994 Page 3 Proposed Wetland AlteratkMis 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 will 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 conMnitment Mr. Dayton has to preserving this remaining portion 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 suted 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 permanent basis. His goal with the current wetland project ts to enhance the environment. Staffs comments below regarding ceruin aspects of the projwt should be considered as encouraging the project to be accomplished in the environmentally friendly manner that Mr. Dayton proposes, rather than as anempting to create "road blocks 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 l“bitat. ^is is m item for discussion. Mr. Bowen notes that creating an island will constitute fill in the wetla^ 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 Service has been consulted as part of the Corps of ^"8‘neers ^lew of this project, it might be appropriate if the applicant provide documenution from USFWS with their comments regarding the habitat aspects of the proposal. SpoUs Disposal loca^ between applicant's tennis coun and East Ung Uke Ro^. This disposal area is approximately 150-500' horizonully and 20' higher than that wetland. nie south disposal area is south of Old Long Road covering virtually the entire area of the plat oTcZhouse Turn- which Mr. Dayton pumhased. Spoils at this site will toul ^ 33,00acu. yds., again ranging in depth up to 12' and in this case covenng an area of 3.5 acres. This disposal area is of some concern for the following reasons;