Ridgefield Inland Wetlands Board Advances Regulations Update, Releases 2 Planting Bonds

In a second unanimous vote, the board approved release of a $6,746.40 planting bond for 10 Black Pine Ridge. Johnson said plantings at the site were generally thriving, with only minor deer damage observed on some sedges. The board determined the project also exceeded the required survival standard.

Commissioners also continued their review of proposed updates to the town's Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Regulations. Chair Susan Baker said a revised draft incorporating previous board comments had been prepared for review by the board's attorney. Members discussed definitions, procedural language and supporting reference materials that could be made available to the public. Commissioner Tim Bishop proposed additional language regarding vernal pools, emphasizing the importance of hydroperiods, or seasonal water conditions, in defining those resources. After discussion, the board agreed to leave the definition unchanged.

Baker said the regulations package is nearing completion and should be ready for one final legal review before a public hearing is scheduled. Commissioners also discussed creating a repository of reference documents and educational materials for residents, along with updates to the wetlands section of the town website.

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The board also reviewed a revised planting plan for 238 Mimosa Circle. Landscape architect Peter Kristofferson, representing the property owner, said changes were proposed after site work revealed drier soil conditions and more direct sunlight than originally anticipated. The revised plan would replace some previously approved plant species with alternatives believed to have a higher likelihood of survival.

Several board members expressed concerns about reducing the number of native plantings near the watercourse. Bishop said he did not support the revised plan because it relied more heavily on non-native species, while Recording Secretary Alan Pilch said the original planting plan provided greater diversity within the riparian buffer. Baker recommended maintaining the approved plantings along the brook and allowing only limited administrative adjustments elsewhere on the property. No formal vote was taken.

Under enforcement matters, Johnson briefed the board on an ongoing violation investigation at 225 Bennetts Farm Road involving changes to a drainage swale that had been approved as part of a subdivision wetlands permit. According to Johnson, a stone-lined channel was installed in place of an approved grassed swale without authorization. A neighboring property owner has alleged the work damaged an existing drainage pipe and contributed to flooding on her property. Pilch requested the original subdivision materials be made available for board review, and Johnson said he would upload the documents to the town's online records system.

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During staff updates, Johnson told the board that litigation involving a wetlands permit at 27 Abbott Ave. remains pending after an attorney representing a neighborhood association requested additional time to pursue an appeal. He also reported that discussions regarding a possible dam removal project at Taylor's Pond are continuing with the Conservation Commission and the Norwalk River Watershed Association.