2020-08-10-CONCOM-min - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

ViewPoint Cloud Permit 4CDOA-20-24 Request for Determination of Applicability, 0 Lincoln Street Applicant: City of Cambridge, Water Department Project: Control knotweed outbreak with mechanical and cut and daub herbicide applications Documentation Submitted: - MassDEP Request for Determination of Applicability application prepared by Davis Kaplan, Watershed Manager, dated 7/21/2020 - Project plans, "Area Maps", dated 7/21/2020 - Photographs of Site, dated 7/21/2020 - Plan showing treatment areas uploaded to VPC on 8/4/2020 David Kaplan, Watershed Manager for the City of Cambridge Water Department, presented before the Commission. He stated they wish to treat a stand of Japanese Knotweed that has been identified behind the Grey Oaks Circle subdivision. They have marked up plans and maps identifying the areas to be treated but those areas start about 400 feet into the path and curve around to the northwest to a brook. Some work is shown within the 25 foot no disturb zone and some outside of the 100 foot buffer. Concerns of the Commission: - What is planned for treatment methods? AquaNeat was suggested to be used. Responses of the Applicant: - The work will be conducted by licensed applicators that provide invasive species removal services. They will use a cut and squirt technique to directly apply a portion of the herbicide into the hollow stem of the knotweed. If some of the smaller leafy material grows back, they will spot spray with a low pressure application. They plan to use glyphosate but whatever they end up using, they will make sure it is safe for wetlands. Mr. Kaplan stated some of the outbreak is on the Condo Association's property. They have reached out to see if they would consider partnering with the Water Department to maintain this area. Would the permit lie with the parcel or would it cover the area they are proposing to complete? The Commission stated the permit is limited by the property line. Concerns of the Abutters: - They have personal experience with this and stated the use of herbicides can be dangerous. They would support any precautions the Commission might choose to take. On a motion by Ms. Dohan and seconded by Ms. Ladd, the Commission voted 7-0 by roll call vote to issue a Negative Determination with conditions. Record of vote as follows: