The Town of Barnstable is seeking a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District, to conduct work in waters of the United States in conjunction with establishing a reconfiguration zone around the town marina in Barnstable, Mass.
The Town of Barnstable, Marine and Environmental Affairs Division, is proposing to establish a reconfiguration zone around the town marina located off of Freezer Road within the Barnstable inner harbor in Barnstable. The reconfiguration zone will allow the town to configure floats in different layouts to best suit current needs. The total expected amount of vessels to moor at the docking facility is 100. Additionally, six 12-inch diameter guide piles will be installed.
This project will impact 4.72 square feet of Essential Fish Habitat for various species and life stages, due to installing new piles. This habitat consists of a varying substrate type of sand to silty fines. Loss of this habitat may adversely affect these species. However, the Corps has made a preliminary determination that the site specific adverse effect will not be substantial. Further consultation with the National Marine Fisheries Service regarding Essential Fish Habitat conservation recommendations is being conducted and will be concluded prior to the final permit decision.
The application for the federal permit was filed by the Town of Barnstable with the Corps of Engineers in compliance with Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act, which provides for federal regulation of any work in, or affecting navigable waters of the United States.
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Press Release, December 11, 2013