VERNON, Vt. (AP) - The state of Vermont is backing away from plans to offer the most stringent environmental protection for a rare “black gum swamp” in the town of Vernon.
In 2015, the Agency of Natural Resources began the process of reclassifying the 28-acre swamp as a Class 1 wetland.
Agency of Natural Resources General Counsel Jen Duggan tells Vermont Public Radio (https://bit.ly/2msIRTI ) concerns from municipal officials prompted the withdrawal. She says the proposal will be re-submitted once those concerns have been addressed.
Black gum trees usually grow 300 or 400 miles to the south.
The town of Vernon maintains a town forest with a trail system that abuts the swamp.
Jon Groveman of the Vermont Natural Resources Council says he’s concerned whether the agency will resubmit the petition.
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Information from: WVPS-FM, https://www.vpr.net
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