STOP THE BIG DIG
Locations are approximate. Aerial images courtesy of Chris Bernstein - cdbphotos.com
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Pierce Brosnan
Together we are stronger, our voices louder, and the synergy of our actions more powerful.
What is the Big Dig?
(and why we want to stop it)
ABOUT
The town of Marshfield has always been a community that rallies together to help all of our residents. We have beautiful beaches, parks and walking trails in every section of town. We also have some of the cleanest drinking water on the South Shore. Our town is proactive in keeping our water sources free from pollution. Working with landowners, various departments have purchased properties in and around our wells and over the aquifers to keep our water safe for drinking, cooking, bathing and more.
This may all come to an end if a local contractor receives approval on a 56-unit proposal submitted to the town by allowing many of our by-laws to be overridden. While we all agree that affordable housing is needed throughout our commonwealth, this proposal does not guarantee the safety of our natural water supply.
This proposal would remove 150,000 cubic yards of sand that is a natural filter for the aquifer in Zone II (known as Ferry Street wells 1&2) and add 8 big septic tanks over the site. There would also be runoff from 133+ parking spots.
This part of the aquifer is essential because this water is the cleanest and provides the largest volume of water in town. If this water is contaminated, we will be dealing with needing costly water purification systems throughout the town. Our health will be at risk and every water bill in town will soar. History has shown that once a site is contaminated, cleanup is not only costly but will not return the location to its original state. We cannot rebuild an aquifer that took thousands of years to build!
Our fundraising will be used to make our residents aware where their water comes from and how we can protect it now and for future generations. This may include a $50,000 bond for court costs that can be imposed by a judge on abutters. Please support our efforts to keep Marshfield water clean. Any monies that may remain after all financial and legal services have been satisfied, we will donate back to a Marshfield conservation group.
Thank you for your support
Who we are
APPROACH
We are a group of concerned Marshfield residents, homeowners, and business owners who are dedicated to keeping our town's water clean. We believe in facts and are doing everything in our power to understand the potential impact this project can have on our water and what we can do to save it.
Relevant Data
INFO
Marshfield residents and business owners concerned about the safety of our town’s water supply.
WHO
01
Removal of 150,000 cubic yards of sand and gravel in order to build a 10-acre, 56-unit, 8-building, 8 septic tank, 133 parking spot housing development over the town’s aquifer.
WHAT
02
Off of Ferry St., crossing over the Bridle Path, directly abutting a 26-acre capped landfill.
WHERE
03
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Marshfield’s water supply is a valuable asset. Losing this valuable natural filtration system could put the health of Marshfield residents at risk, force the town to invest in expensive water purification systems, and increase our water bills.
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The proposed septic systems would use a Title V innovative technology that is still in the pilot phase and not yet approved by MassDEP for general use.
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The proposed development abuts a 26-acre landfill that was capped over 30 years ago.
WHY
04
Join us on Tuesday, May 14th at the ZBA meeting to have your voice and concerns heard! 6:30pm at Town Hall.
WHEN
05
Upcoming important dates
CALENDAR
April 16, 2024
The Zoning Board will be walking the proposed property. Community members are not allowed to join.
May 14, 2024
ZBA Meeting
6:30PM, Town Hall
We are collecting questions for submission or you can send to nporreca@townofmarshfield.org
July 1, 2024
Deadline for the ZBA to rule on the development application