Walpole Issues Enforcement Order Over Wetland Grading
Walpole's Conservation Commission voted to issue an enforcement order against a 16 Main Street property owner over grading and vegetation removal near wetlands.
Conservation · Meeting of June 24, 2026
Walpole's Conservation Commission voted to issue an enforcement order against a 16 Main Street property owner over grading and vegetation removal near wetlands. Chair John Wiley and Vice Chair Betsey Dexter Dyer led the 5-0-0 vote after aerial photos showed activity within 100 feet of wetlands between 2018 and 2026. Countryside Lane residents Sandy Lish, Jason Durant and Joseph Hughes testified about worsening flooding, with Lish saying "there's been significant water pouring through our yards." Property owner Michael Downey said "I haven't done anything since 2020" and is working with Dunn McKenzie on an updated survey.
The commission also continued three hearings to August 12, 2026, issued a Negative 3 determination for a deck at 6 Eastland Circle, approved a $6,000 tree-removal expenditure at 317 High Street, and issued a certificate of compliance for 272-274 South Street.
In the full story:
- Who Was There
- Organizations And Documents Referenced
- The complete report — 2,244 words
Source: the Conservation meeting of June 24, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.
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