The most notable outcome of the meeting was the approval of the ANRAD, which sought to confirm wetland boundaries affecting the Francis P. Ryan and West Waitley Reservoir dams. Environmental scientist Susanna Sousa presented an overview, emphasizing that no immediate work was planned as part of this application. The wetland delineation, initially conducted on September 19, 2023, and reconfirmed on July 7, 2023, identified several resource areas, including the bank, bordering vegetated wetland, and the mean annual high water line linked with the riverfront area. A key update was the exclusion of wetland flags and boundaries from properties owned by the Bellamaras, the Congregational Church, and the southern bank of Westbrook, necessitating updates to the delineation map.

Following the presentation, the Conservation Commission, after a recent site visit, raised no questions or concerns. The approval was granted with unanimous consent. Resident Marianna Massid sought clarification regarding her property on Conway Road, expressing confusion over a notification she received. It was explained that the ANRAD’s purpose was to identify wetland boundaries and that further proposals would require additional commission approval.

The meeting then shifted focus to a proposal filed by Rye Patton on behalf of Flora and Richard Chamlin, aimed at controlling invasive vegetation along approximately 3,050 feet of stream, primarily along Westbrook and a smaller unnamed tributary. This proposal outlined methods such as chainsaw cutting in dense areas, followed by the application of foliar herbicide with backpack sprayers. Patton emphasized the plan’s goal of regenerating native plants while minimizing harm to existing root systems, with a long-term management strategy involving re-stabilizing banks with native plant stakes.

Patton noted that applying foliar herbicide in September to early October would be most effective, as plants prepare for dormancy, allowing the herbicide to reach the root system effectively. The commission members expressed no reservations about approving the order, and the hearing concluded with unanimous support.

Another topic was the request from David Powell for a determination of applicability to improve drainage on his driveway. Powell’s site plan proposed installing three pipes to redirect water runoff, which has caused erosion. Concerns were raised about the driveway’s steepness and its proximity to a brook, prompting a request for more plans to manage water flow effectively. Suggestions included using a level lip spreader to dissipate water flow and reduce erosion risks. The commission members underscored the need for engineered plans to handle potential overflow and prevent additional erosion.

The meeting also addressed Tom Litwin’s request to replace an aging culvert under his driveway. The commission discussed the possibility of proceeding with a Request for Determination (RDA) instead of a full Notice of Intent, given the straightforward nature of the culvert replacement. The conversation highlighted the importance of maintaining the culvert’s structural integrity and ensuring safety and access for Litwin.

Further, the board deliberated on a right of first refusal concerning a property transfer, ultimately deciding not to pursue acquisition as conservation space. A consensus was reached that the transfer was straightforward and did not warrant town involvement.

Lastly, an update on battery storage by-law efforts was provided, noting that a general by-law had been sent to the Select Board for approval, pending zoning by-law requirements by the Planning Board. This effort aims to address safety concerns related to a developer’s interest in establishing a solar field atop an aquifer.