Douglas Conservation Commission continues Martin Road stream dispute, approves Lakeshore Drive restoration

DOUGLAS -- March 16, 2026, Douglas Conservation Commission punts Martin Road stream decision, awaiting DEP drought guidance. The commission voted 4-0 at its March 16 meeting to continue a request for determination of applicability filed by Goddard Consulting for Spruce Hill Assets on Lot 5 off Martin Road, where the applicant seeks to overturn a perennial stream designation using four days of no-flow photos taken September 9 through 12, 2024. Staff consultant Sam and engineer Scott Goddard clashed over whether Douglas was in a declared drought during those days, with staff citing a DEP central-region chart showing a mild drought in September 2024 and Goddard citing the Drought Management Task Force handbook's statement that "the start date of the declared drought conditions is specified on the drought status map." The commission also voted 4-0 to approve a notice of intent for a Lakeshore Drive restoration on Manchaug Pond for Robert Moran, conditioning approval on road-edge drainage improvements being completed before any slope work begins and requiring Chapter 91 license documentation before a certificate of compliance is issued. A 40B development proposed for 30 Southwest Main Street drew a preliminary warning from staff that an infiltration basin near the site entrance abuts the wetland edge and will require a formal notice of intent before work can proceed.