Recommendations from 1990s Alewife Study Group Still Relevant

This list of recommendations for a proper assessment at Jerry's Pond was submitted to the City in 1996. The list of all recommendations can be found here. The entire final report, including history of the site, maps and presence of asbestos, can be found here.

Wetland / Wildlife issues

1. Developer to provide new wetlands delineation and wildlife habitat survey.

2. The site should be a limited salt, no pesticide, no herbicide zone.

3. No fertilizers to be used except sparingly in initial planting.

4. Research feasibility of creating a direct fish spawning waterway to Jerry's Pond from Yates Pond or Alewife Brook.

5. Conduct a study of the habitats of owls, hawks, and osprey.

6. Habitat areas should be appropriately protected. Consider fencing and shielding from lights and traffic.

7. Investigate the feasibility and location of a habitat center near Jerry's Pond.

8. New wetlands delineation and wildlife habitat survey should be part of a broader focus (whole area), and should be independently reviewed.

9. A clear and complete presentation of actual plans for compensatory flood storage should be provided by the developer for the entire site.

10. Any plans for clean up, planting, and wetlands mitigation should be fully developed and fully discussed with abutting neighborhoods and the City prior to the commencement of these activities. When agreed upon and approved, such activities should be commenced and completed prior to the initiation of any other construction. Clean-up, planting, and wetlands mitigation at Jerry s Pond to take place before the start of construction. Any failed vegetation to be replaced within two years of failure.

11. The project proponent should be responsible for the long term maintenance of any replacement wetlands, flood storage areas, and drainage structures, and this requirement should be included in any eventual or current permits regarding this site. Both the Cambridge Conservation Commission and the community at large should be included in routine review of these and other related matters. Owner of the site to post a maintenance bond as an incentive to assure proper maintenance.

12. Any schemes for "wetlands replication" should be fully developed and explained in full to the abutting neighborhood, the City ,and all other interested and informed parties. The Committee would express its preference for preservation and protection of existing natural areas including but not limited to wetlands rather than newly constructed replications.