DEC Wetland Regulation Updates Look Good, CWT Attorney Says

I&I Septage Issues Discussed

ARKVILLE - The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) published its proposed revisions to wetland regulations, reported Coalition of Watershed Towns (CWT) Attorney Jeff Baker. "After a preliminary review it all looks good," he said. 

There was previous concern that adjustments to the wetland categories, specifically the wetlands of unusual local importance, might negatively affect areas of the NYC Watershed, said Baker.

A protected wetland is identified by DEC as 12 acres or larger, though the section Baker is discussing states wetlands smaller may be protected if they are considered of unusual local importance.

However, Baker reported that this category appears to only affect areas of Adirondack Park, and the watershed may be exempt. Baker added that there could be a debate in the future that areas of the watershed do apply to unusual importance during the formal ruling on regulations later this year. At that time CWT will get involved, otherwise, Baker suggests not making any comments on proposed regulations. Baker plans to review the regulations closer and confer with Delaware County officials before making final decisions. Comments on the proposed regulation adjustments are due Feb. 17.

"We want to be treated like everyone else, that's the goal," said CWT Chairperson and Neversink Councilmember Ric Coombe.

In another discussion, several CWT representatives agreed that I&I (inflow and infiltration) issues with wastewater treatment plants seem to be of the greatest concern for sewer flow. I&I is when specific connections and cracks in the system increase sewer flow leading to damage to the system and increased treatment costs. 

Walton Mayor Edward Snow said the village put $40,000 to $50,000 into a study to identify where I&I issues are. He said that repairing all the issues would cost over a million dollars. Funding for repair is the biggest issue, it could be done section by section which would take a lot of time, said Snow.

Catskill Watershed Corporation Executive Director Jason Merwin reported that the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) recently issued an RFP (request for proposal) to evaluate the wastewater collection system in Tannersville. Merwin suggested reviewing the RFP which might include I&I identification.

Baker also provided a privet report regarding ongoing negotiations with DEP on the Land and Streamside Acquisition Program regulation updates. 

"CWT remains comfortable with the progress of the negotiations and is proceeding in good faith. The stakeholders are recognizing the issues and we look forward to culminating the process," Coombe concluded.

The next negotiations meeting is scheduled for Feb. 9. Negotiations are closed to the public. Baker expects the negotiations to be completed by June. 

The next CWT meeting is scheduled Monday, Feb. 19 at 6:15 p.m.