Mayor DeSimone Proposes Expansion of Wetlands Buffer Zone

ATTLEBORO — Mayor Cathleen DeSimone has formally asked the Municipal Council to extend the wetlands buffer zone from 25 feet to 50 feet, increasing resiliency in the City’s water ecosystem.

Mayor DeSimone proposed the change at the April 21 Council meeting, mirroring her efforts as a Councilor several years ago.

“Extending the wetlands protection zone from 25 to 50 feet is a common-sense move that will make Attleboro a more resilient community by protecting our water resources, our water supply, and our environment while also reducing costs associated with water treatment and property flooding,” Mayor DeSimone said.

The City established a Wetlands Protection Ordinance with a 25-foot buffer in 2001, protecting ponds, streams, lakes, vernal pools, small ponds and isolated wetlands. Structures and pavement may not be added, and vegetation may not be cut without a Local Wetlands Permit from the Conservation Commission.

Recent studies show a 25-foot buffer — the minimum allowed under state law — does not adequately protect the environment.

Expanding the buffer zone will:

• Reduce the level of pollutants that enter the water ecosystems
• Provide shade, which will stabilize water temperature, reduce algae blooms, and create a more suitable environment for fish and aquatic wildlife
• Reduce sedimentation and erosion, protecting aquatic wildlife and increasing water flow

The proposed ordinance provides several exemptions for property owners whose structures would now be inside the expanded buffer.

The City has held several public forums on the proposed 50-foot buffer, receiving vital feedback that has helped shape the proposed ordinance.

“Attleboro is a special place. We are a city that loves open and green space and values our natural resources,” Mayor DeSimone said. “We understand that we don’t own the environment or our natural water resources; we borrow them from our children, and we must protect them for the future.”

The Conservation Commission has set up a special webpage, including text of the proposed ordinance change and a Frequently Asked Questions section, for those interested in learning more.