Concerned residents also hope the presence of vernal pools on the property intended for Spurwink Woods will discourage the development.

Hank Andolsek, a resident and groundwater geologist, has documented some of the spots that could be vernal pools. He said they can’t be sure they are vernal pools until spring when indicator species would become present.

Even if it is determined vernal pools do exist there, Andolsek said no legislation or ordinance addresses development on or near vernal pools.

He said there are only guidelines and “best management practices,” which suggest vernal pools should be protected by up to a 750-foot buffer zone. One potential pool he documented was 430 feet from Killdeer Road and the proposed entrance to the development.

Andolsek said it was just a matter of waiting to see if vernal pools are included on wetland maps accompanying the formal application for Spurwink Woods, and to see what happens in the spring.