The meeting’s most pressing topic centered on a proposal from the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) to remove 30 trees at Robin Hill. Commission members expressed dissatisfaction with DCR’s communication, which left many questions unanswered about habitat preservation and the fate of the removed trees. The lack of notification to the commission, despite the neighbors being informed, was a concern, and members felt their authority over the conservation land was being overlooked. The proposal’s approval was contentious, resulting in a tied vote with three in favor, three against, and one abstention, meaning the motion did not carry. This outcome sparked further discussions on the commission’s next steps and whether additional conditions should be added to any future motion. One member noted the urgency of receiving clarifications from DCR, stating, “We’re approving but we’re not particularly happy about how it played out.” A member recalled previous dealings with state agencies, expressing frustration at their reliability and highlighting the need for better coordination in future projects.

The proposal’s timing also raised environmental concerns, as it was still nesting season, potentially impacting local wildlife. The commission suggested delaying the tree removal until after July 1st to protect nesting birds and critters. To mitigate the loss, the commission discussed the necessity for compensatory measures, such as planting 30 native trees elsewhere. Members emphasized the importance of selecting deciduous trees for their higher habitat and carbon value compared to coniferous species. The commission stressed the need for DCR to implement such measures to maintain ecological balance and enhance the town’s tree canopy in the long term.

Moving on from the tree removal issue, the commission discussed expanding its jurisdiction to include a 100-foot buffer around flood-prone areas. This initiative aims to enhance the commission’s ability to manage environmental impacts effectively. Additionally, the commission explored ways to regulate tree canopy maintenance and create buffer zones between lawns and wetland boundaries. This discussion included the potential for setbacks on new constructions to establish a greater distance from wetlands, considering community comfort levels and environmental benefits.

Another noteworthy topic was the Freeman Lake parcel boundary survey, where the commission had requested cost estimates for establishing granite bounds along a property line to facilitate fencing. However, the surveyor had not yet responded. The commission also revisited the topic of beavers causing flooding issues on a parcel they owned between the L connector and Route 3. Emergency permits were signed to allow for the removal of beaver dams and trapping of the animals due to flooding problems affecting McFarland Road. The Department of Public Works (DPW) expressed concerns about the potential return of beavers and sought standing approval for future trapping and dam removal permits. The commission debated using beaver deceivers, devices that prevent flooding while allowing beaver populations to remain, but it was noted that the area lacked sufficient water flow for such devices. Relocating beavers was deemed illegal in Massachusetts, and euthanasia was the only option if they posed a problem.

Following these discussions, the commission received updates on ongoing land management efforts. Land stewards at Thanksgiving Forest were acknowledged for their work, including the installation of interpretive plaques highlighting the ecological benefits of local plants. At Crooked Spring, no new updates were reported, although speed bumps on Mil Road were humorously mentioned as a minor point of discussion. Further updates included plans for an ADA-compliant trail to improve access to park areas and various events at Russell Mill linked to a mountain biking group.