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Concerns With This Project​

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1. This project proposes adding underground storage of gasoline in the Aquifer Protection Zone.  The property was subdivided and the plans were signed off indicating that the project is in the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone. 

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2. A third party review of the hydro geologic study indicates that there is a thin aquifer layer under the site. The third party review was conducted by a certified geologist  and provides evidence that would support the Board’s decision to consider this parcel part of the aquifer protection zone.

• The report did not accurately determine the boundary of the Aquifer as is required

• four of seven test wells intercepted the water table

• There is a thin layer of sandy loose saturated sediments

• The measured hydraulic conductivity was 18.45 feet / day which is moderately high

• The applicant’s report did not include a groundwater flow map which is needed to evaluate the claim

• The independent geologist anticipates that the thin aquifer on this property serves to recharge the larger aquifer to the west

 

3. The independent state certified geologist did not conclude that the site is not in the aquifer protection overlay zone.  He merely stated that the applicant’s report “makes a good case” that it is not. He also pointed out that the groundwater flow study is missing. The Planning Board must do its due diligence by requiring the groundwater flow map since it is likely that groundwater flows from the thin aquifer on the property to recharge the larger aquifer to the west. This property must continue to be designated as in the Aquifer Protection Zone unless the boundary of that zone is accurately determined to exclude the property or portions of it.​