The DPW Director, who presented the Lake Maspenock weed management plan, provided a detailed account of the lake’s history, the formation of the Lake Maspenock Weed Management Citizen Advisory Group, and past initiatives to control the weeds. Despite the implementation of various methods, including drawdowns and mechanical harvesting, the weed problem has persisted, leading to the consideration of herbicide treatment. The DPW’s request to include herbicides in the management strategy was a focal point of the meeting, as it raised questions regarding the effectiveness and environmental impact of such treatments.

Commissioners sought clarification on the different methods’ efficacy and voiced concerns about the potential ecological ramifications of herbicides. Through a dialogue with technical experts and members of the citizen advisory group, the commission explored the complexities of managing the lake’s weed issue. The presentation of the plan for herbicide treatment in the Northern Basin of Lake Maspenock was met with both support and opposition. The proposed herbicides, tribune and aquathol K, are intended for application in early June, with careful pre-survey sampling to target the treatment. Precautionary measures, such as posting signage and restricting recreational use and water consumption during treatment, were also discussed.

Public engagement during the meeting revealed a strong sense of urgency in resolving the weed issue, but also highlighted the community’s divided opinion on the use of herbicides. One member of the citizen advisory group expressed support for the plan, citing the ineffectiveness of previous methods. Conversely, the chair of the environmental working group at the Hopkinton Sustainable Green Committee, Don Southerland, opposed the herbicide use, referencing the Department of Health’s data on the negative impact of diquat on wildlife and human health. Southerland pointed out that diquat has been banned in Europe due to these harmful effects.

The public comments section included concerns about the presence of potentially harmful chemicals like PFAS in herbicides and pesticides. Some attendees called for third-party testing, similar to that mandated for the Fruit Street fields, to ensure safety. One commission member referred to an EPA document stating that PFAS products were no longer approved for use as an inert ingredient in such treatments. A member of the public advocated for non-toxic methods like hydro raking and urged the commission to consider all viewpoints before deciding on herbicide application.

Aside from the lake weed management discussion, the commission also dealt with various property-related issues. An amended notice of intent for a second driveway at Nine Montana Road was reviewed, leading to an agreement to expand the buffer zone restoration area and to label the conservation enhancement area as “permanent.” The meeting covered other property management topics, including minor documentation corrections for a property on Front Street and plan changes for the Hopkinton Stone and Garden project on Lumber Street.

The commission’s agenda also included the design approval of two prototype barrier medallions, which would be used to mark conservation areas. After a discussion on specifications, such as size and the inclusion of a contact phone number, the commission approved the design of the medallions.

The meeting concluded with the commission setting a continuation date for the Hopkinton Stone and Garden project to March 26th, allowing time for the presentation of revised materials. The commission also decided to table the discussion on the extension permit for Fox Hollow Road due to erosion control concerns, while approving the extension for the Stony Brook property.