The Commission revisited the challenges encountered with physical harvesting, which had been previously classified as dredging by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), limiting the amount that could be removed annually. Given these limitations, the Commission resolved to implement a herbicide treatment to manage plant growth effectively within the lake. The approval also included the continuation of diver-assisted suction harvesting, which, although costlier, allows for the selective removal of roots with minimal plant fragmentation, making it suitable for smaller areas like Forge Beach.

Throughout the discussion, concerns arose regarding the classification of diver-assisted suction harvesting as dredging, complicating the permitting process. The Commission also awaited feedback from the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) on the proposed amendments for herbicide use and harvesting methods, acknowledging the typical 30-day response period. Furthermore, some commission members expressed reservations about including algicides in the proposal, highlighting that such chemical treatments represent a significant departure from previously approved mechanical methods and would require a new order of conditions rather than amendments to existing ones.

Due to a lack of quorum, stemming from a member needing to recuse themselves, no immediate vote could be cast on this matter. Consequently, the Commission decided to defer further deliberations to a future meeting, ensuring all necessary parties, including NHESP, could contribute to a well-informed decision-making process.

Another topic covered during the meeting was a proposal for a residential development affecting wetland areas. The developer presented plans for two buildable lots, emphasizing the necessity of a wetland crossing to access the upland portions of the site. The proposal involved filling portions of the wetland, offset by mitigation measures such as wetland replication. Concerns were raised about the project’s compliance with stream crossing standards and the potential impact on wildlife movement, with some Commission members suggesting alternatives like building a bridge to preserve water flow and wildlife passage.

The Commission stressed the importance of ensuring compliance with stormwater management bylaws and urged the developer to consider the anticipated changes in storm intensity, referencing forthcoming updates from the Massachusetts Environmental Protection Agency. Members also emphasized the need for infrastructure to ensure compliance with operation and maintenance plans, expressing skepticism about their effectiveness when implemented by individual property owners. The developer was tasked with providing further documentation and calculations to support the design, particularly the openness ratios of the proposed culverts.

Attention then shifted to a proposal for a battery energy storage system at 97 and Mill Road. The project aims to leverage peak shaving by charging batteries during off-peak hours and discharging them during peak hours, reducing costs associated with power purchases and maintaining low electric rates. The proposal included delineating wetland resource areas, with plans to reduce impervious surfaces and restore degraded areas using a pollinator seed mix. While the project aligns with riverfront area regulations, concerns were raised about safety measures for potential leaks or fires involving lithium-ion batteries, especially given the site’s proximity to Beaverbrook stream.

The Commission emphasized the importance of establishing safety protocols and containment measures to prevent environmental contamination. A site walk was proposed to review the project further, with representatives committed to addressing the Commission’s concerns and continuing discussions with the Littleton Fire Department to clarify safety requirements.

In other business, the Commission addressed the removal of structures and materials from a designated area, emphasizing the need for a tree survey and a replanting plan. The Commission also considered a proposal for a septic system and residential addition, focusing on erosion control measures and the potential environmental impact of increased effluent volumes.