The most contentious topic was the proposal to use herbicides in Forge Pond to manage invasive plants. David Bar from the Littleton Clean Lakes Committee highlighted the need for alternative methods to control escalating plant growth, both invasive and native, in the pond. The committee had historically relied on drawdowns and echo harvesting, but these methods had lost effectiveness due to changing environmental conditions. David detailed a plan to integrate herbicides and algicides with diver-assisted suction harvesting, emphasizing that certified lake managers had supported the approach after considering various options. Despite these assurances, the proposal faced skepticism from some commissioners who voiced concerns about potential environmental impacts and the safety of herbicides for wildlife. One commissioner candidly expressed unease, stating, “I personally don’t like the idea of trying something for herbicides… I think it has to be much more clinically looked at.”

To address these concerns, the commission clarified that only Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection-approved herbicides would be considered. Applications would be targeted and based on planst surveys. The commissioners deliberated on whether to amend the existing order of conditions or to file a new Notice of Intent (NOI). Ultimately, they leaned towards amending the order to simplify the process. The motion to issue an amended order, incorporating herbicides, algicides, and suction harvesting, passed with some opposition.

In addition to the herbicide debate, the commission reviewed a land use permit request for a story walk at Long Lake Park, proposed by the Littleton Conservation Trust. The walk, intended to engage children with nature, was rescheduled to June due to a conflict with a similar event. Commissioners expressed general support but noted concerns about the condition of Colonial Drive.

Another discussion focused on the storage of docks at Long Lake. The Parks and Recreation Department’s plan to include additional docks in the Spring Town Meeting warrant prompted a review of current storage practices. It was noted that docks had been stored near the boat launch, contravening a previous order prohibiting storage within a 50-foot buffer zone. Alternative storage solutions were discussed, including near the bathhouse, though each option presented logistical challenges. The commission agreed to hold a public hearing to gather further input and reach a compliant solution for dock storage.

Additionally, the commission addressed a land use permit request for burning brush at the YAP property. The applicant clarified that the burn would focus on brush clearing rather than invasive species. Safety measures, such as the use of a burn barrel and hoses, were outlined to manage the burn effectively. With permit expiration looming, the commissioners unanimously approved the request after a roll call vote.

The meeting also included a review of proposed modifications to the Foster Street Reconstruction project. The project involved invasive species management and the relocation of catch basins. Modifications included the application of targeted herbicides and changes to the stormwater management plan due to unforeseen groundwater levels. Given the scale of these changes, commissioners debated whether they constituted minor modifications or required a formal amendment. The consensus leaned towards treating them as significant modifications needing further scrutiny.