Conservation commission will ask zoning board for restoration assurances on Liberty Utilities gas main

The Litchfield Conservation Commission voted to send a letter to the zoning board supporting Liberty Utilities’ request for a special exception to work in wetlands, while asking that restoration and best-management practices be required as conditions.

"I'm gonna make a motion that we send a letter to the zoning board stating that we reviewed the plans and discussed it internally and that we have no major comments related to the gas main installation. However, we want to make sure that restoration of the directional drilling happening near conservation properties and across wetlands is done in accordance with best management practices," Jason Brennan moved during the meeting. The motion was seconded and approved by the commission.

Commission members reviewed maps showing the route follows existing utility right-of-way, crosses the Merrimack River, and will use mats in wetland work and horizontal directional drilling under certain water crossings. Members flagged Ness and Kate (Nesenk) Brook and other small stream crossings as areas where restoration and documentation should be clear. Matt Hoffman asked for clarity on drilling techniques and documentation; commissioners requested Liberty Utilities document as-built locations to quality-level survey standards so future maintenance and any impacts are clearly recorded.

The commission does not have authority to grant or deny the special exception but agreed the zoning board and planning board should consider conditions to ensure wetlands are returned to their prior condition. The letter will state the commission's concerns about restoration and urge the zoning board to include appropriate conditions if it grants the special exception.