Translating Connecticut Aquaculture Permitting into Plain English: A Volunteer Project

Translating Connecticut Aquaculture Permitting into Plain English: A Volunteer Project I wrote this quite a while ago while volunteering for a nonprofit group interested in promoting aquaculture.  They wanted a guide to the permitting process that you have to go through to become a shellfish farmer. I tried to write a condensed, easy to read […]

Why Some Environmental Regulations are Hard to Use in Practice

Why Some Environmental Regulations are Hard to Use in Practice I saw a recent proposal from a town looking to increase the use of native plants in site plan approvals. The intent is straightforward and reasonable: improve habitat, reduce invasive species, and promote a healthier ecosystem.   The proposed approach, however, follows a pattern I’ve […]

Repairing a Rotten Deck Core Without Cutting the Deck Open

Repairing a Rotten Deck Core Without Cutting the Deck Open Affinity, our Bristol 26, had slowly accumulated hardware and accessories over the years.   Two VHFs. Two autopilots. Three antennas. Coaxial pass-through fittings with no cables in them. Powerboat-style dinghy davits. Extra cleats. Old depth finders. Unused plumbing. Unused wiring. Holding tanks and plumbing taking […]

Useful Guides and References for a Wetlands Agent

Useful Guides and References for a Wetlands Agent Purpose These are resources I’ve used or saved while working as a wetlands agent. Some are technical guidance documents, others are general references or examples from other states or agencies. I’ve included short notes on what each resource is, where it has been useful in practice, and […]

A Simple Structure for Running an Inland Wetlands Commission Meeting

A Simple Structure for Running an Inland Wetlands Commission Meeting In smaller towns, it’s not uncommon for someone to end up running a wetlands commission meeting on short notice–either because no one else wants to, or because the chair is unavailable.     I put this together as a simple step-by-step outline based on how we […]