Suffolk Wetlands Board Meeting (5-19-22)

The City of Suffolk, Virginia Wetlands Board held a meeting on May 19, 2022, primarily to consider a public hearing on a shoreline stabilization project at The Reserve at Cedar Point along the Nansemond River. The applicant requested approval to install approximately 1,423 linear feet of granite riprap with heavy-duty woven filter fabric to stabilize the bank and prevent erosion. The project was presented by Waterfront Consulting, and staff recommended approval given the site's exposure to heavy wave action and steep topography, which made living shorelines unsuitable. Public comments raised concerns about environmental impacts, including erosion, loss of trees, effects on oyster grounds, and compliance with Virginia law favoring living shorelines unless exceptions apply. Several speakers urged more comprehensive mitigation plans and questioned the absence of breakwaters and coastal engineering input. The board discussed the need for a detailed buffer restoration plan and environmental impact assessments. After deliberation, the board voted unanimously to table the decision for 30 days to allow the applicant to provide additional documentation and address outstanding questions. The next meeting was scheduled for June 16, 2022.