The committee is working to address the deteriorating conditions of the pond at the preserve, which has been drying out and becoming overrun with vegetation. TNM Associates, known for their successful restoration of Weasel Brook Pond, have been engaged to assess the site and provide necessary estimates and specifications for the proposed restoration. Their involvement includes evaluating the pond under the Freshwater Wetlands Act, which is critical for the permitting process. A Zoom call with TNM Associates has been planned, and a site visit is scheduled to further discuss the project specifics.

In addition to the pond restoration, the committee is focused on replacing the bird blind at the preserve. Though TNM will not handle the bird blind’s construction, they will provide detailed design specifications for potential execution by the Department of Public Works (DPW) or community groups like local scouts. The committee expressed concerns about the project stalling without a clear plan and emphasized the importance of securing adequate funding encompassing permits and restoration needs. A threshold for project costs was discussed, with an understanding that if quotes surpass $40,000 or $42,000, the project will need to go out to bid. The committee plans to review TNM’s quotes at their next meeting in November.

During discussions, there was also an exploration of safety improvements and alternative designs for the bird blind, such as a double-decker structure to enhance visibility. Environmental regulations requiring compliance with new permitting processes were highlighted. The committee underscored the importance of integrating both environmental and civil engineering expertise to effectively manage the project’s complexities.

Another major topic was trail connectivity and mapping improvements, particularly addressing the usability of new black and white trail maps. Concerns were raised about the lack of orientation and clarity in these maps, and members advocated for solid line indicators and street names to enhance user experience. The potential for including portable restrooms along trails was also discussed, showing a commitment to improving visitor amenities.

Meanwhile, the committee explored new trail development at the County Road 518 property, highlighting plans for a site visit following hunting season in February. The site is densely wooded, which poses challenges for trail creation, yet members are enthusiastic about the potential for significant trail establishment. They discussed the use of forestry mulching techniques and emphasized the importance of assessing land features to inform trail design.

Community engagement efforts were also a focal point, with the committee deliberating on strategies to market trails through township publications and social media. A proposal to feature a “trail of the month” via social media platforms was well-received, as was the idea of writing and publishing articles in the Franklin Township news. The committee considered collaborating with local news outlets to increase visibility and awareness of the trails.

The meeting also touched on the revival of a photo contest and the logistics of future events like Franklin Day, where space constraints were a concern. Members expressed a desire to enhance their presence at community events and discussed the potential for organizing a therapeutic recreation nature walk.