It defies credulity that the Stonington Inland Wetlands and Waterways Commission did not initially reject a developer’s application to build at the edge of Haley’s Marsh in Old Mystic: the plan proposes to decimate a vast area of the 100-foot wetland border by digging out the top 12 inches over 26,000 square feet, extending to 8.5 feet from the wetland edge. This wetland border protects low-lying Old Mystic from flooding and is home to vernal pools and attendant wildlife.

Neighbors cried foul, citing seasonal wetness in the border area, which acts like a natural sponge, absorbing and releasing water and preventing neighborhood flooding. Their sump pumps already pulse 24/7, even during a drought.

Commissioners questioned the massive excavation, concerned it would dig below the seasonal high groundwater level, creating a mosquito-breeding pond. Attention was diverted, however, by a last-minute suggestion from the developer’s hired soil scientist that grass lawn be replaced by conservation seed mix, obviating need for harmful fertilizer and lime. Alarmingly, commissioners appeared to consider approving the application with this contingency.

To protect an invaluable wetland border commissioners must vote on Sept. 1 to deny this application.

Kris Kuhn

Mystic