Conservation Commission Regular Meeting Materials (linked)

JAMES SIPPERLY
CERTIFIED SOIL SCIENTIST
CONNECTICUT WETLAND SCIENTIST
401 SALEM TURNPIKE
BOZRAH, CT 06360
860-334-7073
james.sipperly.js@gmail.com
Maureen Fitzgerald, Environmental Planner June 19, 2021
Town of Waterford
15 Rope Ferry Road
Waterford, CT
RE: INLAND WETLAND SOILS AND WATERCOURSES INVESTIGATION,
AND DELINEATION, 394 WILLETS WAY/ 61/61A MYROCK AVENUE
WATERFORD, CT
Dear Ms. Fitzgerald:
Back in May of 2021, I sampled the soil along the proposed sanitary sewer gravity main
location using a soil auger to a depth of two to three feet. Based on my field observations
and using the guidelines established by the National Cooperative Soil Survey and as
defined by the Connecticut General Statutes I delineated the inland wetland soils and
watercourses in that location. I delineated the inland wetlands and watercourses using
blue flagging numbered 97-150. My previous delineation ended at a corner of a stone
wall with flag 96.
The inland wetland soils flags were delineated by field survey and are shown accurately
on a site plan entitled: “Waterford Woods Site Modification, prepared for Waterford
Woods, LLC (owner/applicant), Gravity Sewer Main Title Sheet, Scale 1”=20’, dated
6/07/21, prepared by Yantic River Consultants LLC”
The inland wetland soils delineated along the proposed sanitary sewer line are
classified as a Ridgebury, Leicester and Whitman fine sandy loam. These soils are poorly
drained and very poorly drained and are located in depressions in glacial till uplands.
These soils are mapped together as a complex because of their similar physical
characteristics, use and management.
However, just to the west of the proposed crossing, (approximately 60 feet) the soils are
classified as an Adrian and Palm muck that are often associated with stream terraces such
as Fenger Brook. Surface water is often present in that vicinity. These deep organic soils
will not be disturbed.

The Ridgebury soil complex has a black fine sandy loam surface layer that typically hosts
seeds, rhizomes and bulbs for typical wetland plant species. This soil layer should be
separated from the excavation of the sanitary sewer line from the subsurface mineral soil.
That will ensure future propagation of native wetland plant species in the future.
The installation of the sanitary sewer line if done correctly, using best management
practices, including "double ditching", separating the organic soil from the mineral soil
and putting them back in the proper position will be key to minimizing any impacts.
This wetland area is classified as a forested wetland general classification. Its functions
include: groundwater recharge and discharge, sediment stabilization, nutrient removal
and transformation, product export, and wildlife diversity. The vegetative over-story
includes maples, cottonwood, willow, ash, black cherry and poplar. Shrub species include
button bush, speckled alder, winterberry, spice bush, silky dogwood. The herbaceous
layer includes sensitive fern, poison ivy, multiflora rose, and skunk cabbage.
It is important to note that those existing wetland functions will continue to be present
after the temporary disturbance for the installation of the sanitary sewer main. The project
was designed to minimize impact as detailed in the wetland impact table and
accompanying notes below.
As with any proposed project a comprehensive erosion and sedimentation control plan
well designed and properly installed and maintained is the key to a successful project.
Regular inspections should occur, especially after storm events of more than 1.5” of rain.
After reviewing the proposed sanitary sewer gravity main and the limits of its
construction, and after reviewing of the proposed wetland impact tables, it is my
professional opinion that the proposed construction activities will not have a significant
adverse effect on the adjacent inland wetlands and/or watercourse on or off the site.
If you have any questions or require additional information, please contact me at the
telephone number referenced above.
Ve ie yours,
J
es Sipperly
Certified Soil Scientist, Society of Soil Scientists of Southern New England
Connecticut Wetland Scientist, Connecticut Association of Wetland Scientists