The Harwich Conservation Commission emphasized its ongoing shift toward mandatory native plantings this week as it authorized a significant expansion at 11 Nons Road. Stephanie Sequin, representing owners Steve and Laura McCabe, outlined renovations for the property abutting Allen's Creek, which include a new screened porch and a two-story addition. To offset development within the riverfront and 50-foot buffer, the project includes an extensive restoration plan that far exceeds minimum town standards. We have a total mitigation requirement of roughly 430 square feet based on your 2:1 and 3:1 requirements, Sequin explained. Blue Flax has provided a mitigation plan for approximately 1,672 square feet of lawn and invasive removal.

Caitlyn Camelier of Blue Flax Design detailed the ecological lift for the site, noting that 1,259 square feet of invasive species like bittersweet and autumn olive would be replaced with 107 native shrubs and a wildflower mix. Chair J. Ketchum questioned the site's flood zone boundaries, prompting Conservation Agent Amy Usowski to clarify that the Velocity Zone elevation—where wind-driven waves are predicted—serves as the top of the coastal bank for regulatory purposes. Usowski recommended the project, stating, Removal of the invasives and adding a variety of natives will help with ecological diversity. Motion Made by V. Mulhall-Maguire to approve the determination of applicability for 11 Nons Road, map 6, parcel C1-10 with a negative two and three determination. Motion Passed 4-0.

The McCabes also received the green light to modernize their waterfront access by replacing an existing L-shaped permanent pier with a seasonal ramp and float system. Bob Perry of Cape Cod Engineering noted the redesign reduces the structure from 14 pilings to 10, creating a more environmentally friendly footprint. The float is now 7 feet wide... We prefer keeping it at six piles for the pier end to make it more stout against current and ice flows, Perry said. Member M. Coleman questioned the use of herbicides for invasive removal after noticing a conflict in the construction notes, which Sequin clarified was a standard note not intended for the mitigation work. Motion Made by M. Coleman to approve the Notice of Intent for 11 Nons Road, map C1-10. Motion Passed 4-0.

The push for native biodiversity over traditional lawns—a high-impact target for the town as it addresses data showing 90% water impairment in Harwich embayments—sparked a technical debate regarding 2071 Route 28. Jennifer Leighton Gracia of Tighe & Bond presented a plan for bulkhead repairs and invasive management that originally included American Beach Grass. Usowski voiced hesitation about using beach grass without windblown sand, suggesting marsh species instead. Member S. Pilling advocated for specific alternatives to better suit the site's ecology. Regarding the pitch pines, the one choked by ivy is being flush cut? Pilling asked, adding, For the area behind the wall, maybe Spartina patens or Juncus gerardii would be better than beach grass. V. Mulhall-Maguire thanked the representatives for their work on the complex site. Motion Made by M. Coleman for approval of the NOI for 2071 Route 28 with the condition that the final planting plan requires review by the Conservation Agent. Motion Passed 4-0.

In West Harwich, the Commission moved to protect a prominent local landmark during the redevelopment of 297 Route 28. Dan Ojala of Moran Engineering presented plans to replace an aging house and garage with a new four-bedroom home elevated above the flood zone. Ojala confirmed that a large, healthy beech tree on the site would be spared. The building is quite old and Historic allowed the removal without delay, Ojala said. The new building will meet FEMA and building code requirements. Usowski noted that a lot of people will be happy the beech tree is staying, while Pilling suggested adding construction fencing to protect the root zone from disease. J. Ketchum sought clarification on a wastewater cleanout located near the property line, which Ojala agreed to investigate. Motion Made by M. Coleman to approve the notice of intent for 297 Route 28. Motion Passed 4-0.

The meeting concluded with a move to executive session to discuss a high-priority land acquisition project involving taxpayer funds. The Commission voted to enter a non-public session to weigh support for a Community Preservation Act (CPA) application by the Harwich Conservation Trust to acquire a new parcel and establish a conservation restriction. Motion Made by M. Coleman to enter executive session for discussion and a possible vote to support a CPA fund application for land acquisition and a conservation restriction. Motion Passed 4-0 via roll call.