Suffolk Wetlands Board Meeting (1-21-21)

The City of Suffolk, Virginia Wetlands Board held a meeting on January 21, 2021, primarily to discuss a violation at 6766 Burbage Landing Circle involving unauthorized modifications to jurisdictional wetlands. The board reviewed the status of the restoration plan submitted by the property owner, which required removal of debris and restoration of the shoreline to conditions similar to neighboring properties. While some debris removal had occurred, significant materials including a boat ramp remained, and the board noted that full compliance had not yet been achieved. The Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) had issued a notice to comply for removal of the boat ramp within their jurisdiction. The board voted unanimously to extend the compliance deadline by 60 days to align with the VMRC notice and emphasized the expectation that the property owner submit a detailed restoration plan for the shoreline bank following debris removal. The board clarified that restoration requiring permits would be necessary and that failure to comply could lead to legal action. The discussion highlighted challenges with contractor availability and the need for clear communication of restoration expectations to the property owner.