Conservation Commission

On June 20, 2008, Cynthia Matthew, the Chairwoman of the East Haddam Conservation Commission, issued advice regarding the Morgan Estates application for the consideration of the IWWC. In that letter, Matthew states, "we held a special meeting on June 7th to consider the impact of the proposed development on water resources in the Salmon River watershed. All members of the commission were present, except one who was recused. Based on observations from a site walk, materials and expert testimony submitted to the land use office by the application, interveners, and town consultants, and information presented at the public hearings, Conservation Commission members unanimously expressed deep concern that the proposed water abatement methods will not consistently meet regulations and prevent water run-off over time."

The letter outlines six key points including concerns about the maintenance intensity of proposed rain gardens and conservation easements, ability to enforce maintenance, filling of a watercourse, impact on the Salmon River and affects on a wildlife corridor. The Commission concludes by saying, "...given the challenges presented by the geology of the location, its poor soil drainage capacity, and prominence in the Salmon River watershed, we have significant reservations about the current proposal, particularly in regard to methods proposed to mitigate against water run-off."

Preserve Landing Hill offers this synopsis of the Conservation Commission advice to the IWWC in an effort to provide information and education consistent with our mission to save the historic and beautiful Landing Hill area.