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04/23/2012 12:00 AMNow that spring has arrived, landowners are planning to clean up the winter debris of broken tree branches, remaining autumn leaves, and sand. The North Branford Conservation and Inland Watercourses Agency reminds property owners and the public that wetlands, watercourses (rivers, ponds, brooks, streams, drainage swales, etc.) and their 100-foot buffer area are protected areas under the town's regulations pursuant to the state's wetlands legislation.
The dumping of debris including landscaping grass, leaves, and shrub or tree branches isn't allowed in wetland areas. Regrading of wetland areas and the banks of watercourses that include vegetation clearing and removal and tree cutting and stump removal are disturbances considered to be regulated activities and require a permit. These activities are detrimental to the environment because they destroy the natural features and environment that support the wildlife habitat and the plant life of these protected areas. These activities also cause soil erosion problems to watercourses because the root system of trees and plants that keep the soil of the stream banks stable are removed.
All proposed activities of disturbance within regulated areas (includes the 100-foot buffer area from the boundaries of wetlands and watercourses) require permit approval from the Wetlands Agency. Such activities include land filling or excavation, regrading land elevations, construction of any building structure, below- and above-ground swimming pools, sheds, decks, patios, and driveways.
More information regarding permit applications can be obtained by calling the Town Planning Department at 203-484-6010, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. I encourage those with questions on proposed work to be done on their property who aren't sure if there'll be a problem with wetlands or watercourses to discuss the matter first with the Town Planning Department. The Wetlands Agency thanks everyone for their cooperation in protecting our town wetlands and watercourses.
Carol ZebbNorth Branford Inland Wetland Officer