Protect Martin Burns WMA Wetlands

A vernal pool community is being threatened by a proposed development directly adjacent to Martin Burns Wildlife Management Area (WMA).  The developer is abusing the affordable housing statute in an effort to build 24 houses on a property surrounded by and containing wetlands, including a certified vernal pool that is primarily within the WMA.  The developer has appealed the Newbury Conservation Commission’s denial of the project, despite protections afforded by state law that should prevent such egregious designs from being approved.

A local coalition of Newbury citizens obtained the services of Hill Law to provide expert analysis and review of the proposed design.  So far, the funds we have raised have helped commission initial and in-depth reviews of the impact of the project on the wetlands by a highly respected wetlands expert, providing a water budget for a certified vernal pool and an assessment of inevitable harm to a potential vernal pool. Further, our storm water expert wrote a detailed letter and gave compelling testimony on the insufficient and inaccurate information provided by the developers regarding storm water management and its impact on the wetlands and our community. Finally, our legal team has provided written and in-person arguments as to why the Conservation Commission had the legal right to deny this project on behalf of the wetlands and the wildlife that inhabit them.

While Hill Law has been generous and efficient with their time, the costs of these efforts have been significant.  The evidence provided has been extremely valuable to both the Conservation Commission and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, and we are hopeful this work will ultimately protect the vernal pool community on both the private property and the WMA. Please help us continue to raise funds and continue to fight for the preservation of irreplaceable ecological area.