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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20250166 Pitney Farms Fencing Request for Easment InterpretationPitney Meadows Community Farm, Inc. 112 Spring Street, Suite 206 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518) 290-0008 contact@pi tneymeadows.org www.PitneyMeadows.org January 21, 2025 Michael Dutre Administrator of Parks, Open Lands and Historic Preservation City of Saratoga Springs 474 Broadway Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Renee Bloupon, Executive Director and Drake McDonough, Stewardship Manager Agricultural Stewardship Association 2531 State Route 40 Greenwich, NY 12834 Subject: Request for easement interpretation to install deer fencing on conservation easement lands Dear Michael, Renee, and Drake, We're writing to formally seek permission to install an 8-foot deer fence around our production fields as outlined in the attached materials. This request is made pursuant to the terms of our conservation easement agreement and with the intent to address significant and recurring deer damage to our crops. Background and Justification Over several years, our farm has experienced substantial crop losses due to deer intrusion. In 2024, we consulted with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) to explore remedial options. Their recommendations included culling by firearm or crossbow. However, due to our proximity to public walking trails, neighboring properties, and city limits, we determined that such methods would not be feasible or safe. As an alternative, NYS DEC supports the use of 8-foot fencing as an effective and sustainable solution. The proposed fence is intended to prevent deer from accessing our production fields, ensuring the viability of our agricultural practices and aligning with the purpose of the conservation easement as described in section 1.01. Easement Compliance We understand that the proposed fencing is considered an "improvement" under section 1.03 of the easement and is permitted under section 3.05.11(D), provided it does not "block or significantly detract from a scenic viewshed area." Additionally, section 3.05.7(b) prohibits improvements that would "significantly diminish" or "block or significantly detract from" the scenic viewshed area. The proposed fencing will be carefully designed and sited to comply with these provisions. Specifically: • The fence will not obstruct or diminish the public's enjoyment of the viewshed but will instead enhance the public's understanding of agricultural pest control. • Gates will ensure access for CSA members and the public who pick their own vegetables within the fields. • The materials and design will minimize visual impact, with galvanized steel posts and woven mesh wire that blend into the agricultural setting. The fence will also serve to protect the "viable agricultural and soil resources" mentioned in section 3.05.7, ensuring that our fields remain productive and sustainable. Proposed Fencing Specifications • Dimensions: Perimeter fence measuring 8 feet high and approximately 1,500 feet long. • Gates: Four gates (as shown in sections 1, 2, 4, and 5 on the attached map), designed with 4x4 wooden posts and 5-foot swinging gates for tractor access. • Materials: Galvanized round steel posts with woven mesh wire. • Public Access: CSA members and the public will retain access to the fields through designated gates and surrounding perimeter trail. Visual and Environmental Considerations For the purposes of SEQR review, we note that the NYS DEC defines a significant aesthetic impact as one that diminishes public enjoyment or impairs the character of a place. The proposed fence is designed to align with the agricultural landscape, prevent deer damage, and support viable farming operations, thereby preserving the character and purpose of the land. Supporting Documentation • Map indicating fence layout and gate locations. • Spreadsheet detailing proposed materials and costs. We respectfully request your review and approval of this proposal. If additional information or documentation is required, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you for your consideration and for your ongoing support of our agricultural mission. Si er , Brooke McConnell Executive Director Attachments: 1. Map of proposed fencing layout. 2. Spreadsheet of materials and costs.