The committee’s discussion on the task force addressing stormwater runoff and silt contamination was a central focus. The task force, consisting of about ten members, had its initial meeting on July 11th. They are working with the latest draft of the Watershed-based plan, which prioritizes areas of concern, particularly focusing on road runoff. Initially expected by summer, the plan’s final version is now projected for completion in the fall. Optimism was expressed regarding the task force’s progress and the potential for assistance in identifying funding sources, including the possibility of applying for an MVP Grant. Members emphasized the importance of education and outreach as part of the overall strategy to combat silt contamination.

Updates on dam activities also took precedence. An engineering company, GZA, has been engaged to evaluate the dam’s condition and identify necessary maintenance. While no issues with the dam were reported, routine maintenance is required. GZA is defining the scope of repairs and is in communication with Morris Ru, the previous dam engineer, to ensure continuity. A specific endangered species, the viral Shin, identified in the lake, necessitated approval from the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program before any drawdown activities. GZA suggested additional engineering evaluations to provide sufficient data to the natural heritage officials to facilitate this approval. The committee expressed the need for further information to support the drawdown request.

The conversation continued with the need for GZA to meet with the Conservation Commission, particularly Chair Becky, regarding the current orders of conditions. These conditions could potentially be extended, allowing ongoing dry downs, a concern for the committee. Documentation indicating that the dam size has not changed since 1984 was discussed, potentially allowing the committee to be exempt from certain permitting requirements. Concerns were raised about the completeness of the documentation from 1984. One member noted, “I think we do not” have comprehensive records, highlighting gaps in available data. The discussion acknowledged that while some records of drawdowns exist for specific reasons, there is a lack of systematic documentation tracking these activities year by year. The possibility of finding missing records in the Conservation Commission’s archives was considered, with a participant indicating they would check the records.

Acknowledging the need for documentation since 1984 to demonstrate the dam size has not increased, the committee deliberated on the implications of waiting for new records, questioning if the cutoff date could shift with time. There was consensus that obtaining the Chapter 91 exemption would be advantageous and pursuing continued authorization from the Conservation Commission is a more economical route. The financial burden of the entire permitting process was emphasized, with estimates suggesting costs could reach upwards of $100,000 for engineering studies alone. The dialogue conveyed urgency to solidify the exemption while aligning with existing conservation conditions.

The meeting also included updates on recent activities, such as the installation of new anchors for the buoys, which occurred either last weekend or two weeks prior. A lighter moment arose when discussing technical difficulties with the meeting’s generator and anecdotes about electronic device failures.

Further discussions reflected on the recent activities at the lake, particularly regarding safety measures and community engagement. A member expressed dissatisfaction with the last band performance at a recent event, noting a less enjoyable experience due to a young child becoming “waterlogged.” The conversation pivoted to the installation of new ropes for marking swimming areas, expected to be in place by the upcoming weekend. These ropes, adjustable to accommodate varying water levels, address safety concerns around the inlet or drain pipe where suction can be hazardous.

An incident involving a swimmer who disregarded the marked swimming area prompted discussion on enforcing safety measures and ensuring clear communication about the dangers, particularly the steep drop-off. The effectiveness of recently installed no parking signs was another topic, with feedback indicating a positive impact. A member noted that the presence of an Environmental Police Officer was a first for them, and this increased enforcement seemed to help manage visitor behavior at the dam, especially during peak times when nearby state parks were full.

The committee discussed the Fog Watershed Base Plan, critical for securing state funding through various grants. However, concerns about delays due to increased workloads pushed the completion date into the fall rather than the anticipated summer timeline. The importance of completing this plan was emphasized as it is a prerequisite for applying for specific grants.

Water quality data was also discussed. A recent high reading at the state beach exceeded the acceptable threshold, raising concerns. There was a suggestion to conduct e-coli testing at the state beach to gather comparable data, though some members questioned its necessity.

An unexpected agenda item involved the formation of a committee by the select board to review voting bylaws related to the lake. A member raised whether someone from the advisory committee should participate in this new committee, prompting discussion about the need for a representative offering a perspective from the lake community. A member expressed willingness to volunteer, citing their long-term residence and experience as a kayaker. Consensus emerged on the importance of diversity in representation to address any changes to the bylaws.

A motion was made to recommend the volunteering member to the select board for inclusion on the bylaws committee. A vote resulted in general agreement, with one member abstaining due to their involvement in the selection process. The process of formally contacting the select board for this recommendation was assigned to a committee member.