Environmental Impact
Wetlands avoidance, stormwater management, habitat considerations, and NHESP coordination.
This page follows our Community Right-to-Know commitment
What We Know
Wetlands Avoidance
We designed the project to avoid direct impacts to wetlands. We placed the BESS area within the 15-acre leased portion of the 47.13-acre parcel to maintain appropriate buffers from delineated wetland resource areas. Qualified environmental scientists conducted a wetland delineation on the property. We expect the actual disturbance area to be 10 acres or less, though this will depend on final site engineering.
Stormwater Management
We will develop a comprehensive stormwater management plan in accordance with the Massachusetts Stormwater Standards. Key elements include:
- Pre- and post-development runoff analysis: we will analyze runoff to ensure no net increase in stormwater discharge
- Erosion and sediment control: we will apply strict controls during construction to protect downstream waterways
- Low-impact development practices: we will use vegetated swales and permeable surfaces where feasible
- Long-term maintenance: we will monitor the stormwater infrastructure on an ongoing basis
Existing Vegetation and Screening
The equipment area sits inside a larger wooded parcel, set back from Carpenter Hill Road. The existing trees and terrain between the equipment area and neighboring properties provide:
- Visual screening from neighboring properties
- Natural stormwater absorption
- Distance that reduces sound levels
Habitat Considerations
We will evaluate the project site for the presence of state-listed rare species and their habitats. We are coordinating with the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) to comply with the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act.
What We're Still Studying
- NHESP review results: NHESP is reviewing our filing, and we will publish the results when we receive them
- Detailed stormwater engineering: we will include final engineering designs in our consolidated permit application
- Construction-phase environmental monitoring plan: we will develop this plan in consultation with environmental regulators
- Long-term habitat monitoring: we will evaluate whether the project requires post-construction monitoring commitments
What You Can Influence
- Environmental priorities: tell us which environmental concerns matter most to you through Share Your Voice
- Screening and plantings: share your ideas for visual screening and native plantings around the equipment area
- Monitoring commitments: suggest what environmental monitoring we should include in the project's operating plan