Wetlands — Clearing Up the Facts

One of the most discussed (and misunderstood) parts of the 100 Oakland project has been the wetlands. In many local discussions, partial facts have traveled fastest. Here, with both transparency and evidence, are the full facts — what the project is doing with the wetlands, what it isn’t, and what ecological improvements are built in.

History & Current State

• The property is over 32 acres, part of which was once farmland (tobacco fields, barns, fields) decades ago. Over time, as farming ceased, the land reverted in part to woodlands and wetlands. 100 Oakland

• The site has been shaped by historical disturbances, including stream channel alterations, past dams, and earthen fills from farming activity. As a result, portions of the wetlands are in a degraded condition, with invasive species such as Japanese knotweed in wetland areas and burning bush in the woodlands. Left unmanaged, these infestations will continue to spread and worsen over time. 100 Oakland

The Proposed Wetland Plan

• Of the 32+ acres, about 20± acres will be developed (homes, roads, clubhouse, etc.), and about 12± acres will be preserved in their natural state. 100 Oakland

• Permanent disturbance: ~1,182 square feet of wetlands will be disturbed permanently for the bridge crossing over an intermittent watercourse. 100 Oakland

• Temporary disturbances: ~3,702 square feet will be disturbed temporarily during construction (such as utilities crossings, etc.). These disturbed areas will be restored. 100 Oakland

• Net wetland increase: The project will create a net increase of approximately 4,142 square feet of healthy wetlands, enhancing the overall ecological value of the site. 100 Oakland

Ecological Improvements

• Removal of invasive species such as Japanese knotweed and burning bush, which are harming the ecosystem. Replacing them with native species will help pollinators, birds, and other wildlife. 100 Oakland

• Stormwater runoff will be treated; improved water quality is a goal. 100 Oakland

• Streambank restoration: the severely eroded stream channel will be stabilized. The new 60-foot bridge not just provides crossing but helps mitigate erosion. 100 Oakland

Addressing Common Concerns

• Will this destroy wetlands? No. The project increases wetlands and improves quality. Many of the existing wetlands are degraded; the plan is to restore and enhance. 100 Oakland

• Are rare or endangered species harmed or present? According to the available historical and environmental records, there are no known rare or endangered species on the site. 100 Oakland

• Does building a bridge harm more than it helps? In this case, the crossing is necessary for the development, but instead of using only a culvert—which could restrict wildlife movement—the choice of a bridge reduces wetland disturbance and maintains ecological connectivity. Its design also incorporates stream stabilization, sediment reduction, and an enhanced riparian buffer, creating long-term benefits for both the site and downstream waterways. 100 Oakland

Conclusion

The 100 Oakland project doesn’t just respect wetlands — it restores and improves them. The plan shows a thoughtful balance: preserving ecological function, enhancing habitat, increasing wetland area, and protecting water quality. For those who care about natural resources, conservation, and a healthy ecosystem for the future: there is much here to support.