One notable issue raised was the management of Marter Park. Community members, notably Sam and Gavin Lee, voiced dissatisfaction with the current maintenance plan, emphasizing the detrimental effects of frequent mowing on the park’s ecology. Sam Lee described the mowing practices as “fairly wood ching,” highlighting visible soil disturbance and increased dust, which has contributed to soil erosion and attracted ground bees. These conditions necessitated spraying measures, which further fueled concerns about the park’s ecological health. The Lees suggested a more holistic management plan for the park, advocating for varied treatment of different sections based on their usage and ecological needs. Gavin Lee shared insights from transforming their yard into a native plant garden, advocating for similar practices in Marter Park to reduce maintenance issues and enhance ecological health.

The Environmental Commission acknowledged the need for diverse management strategies, especially for areas not used for active recreation. Concerns about the financial and operational realities of maintaining a heavily utilized park were discussed, with one member commenting on the park being “loved to death,” indicating that high foot traffic might be damaging its natural environment. There was also frustration regarding the local school board’s lack of financial contribution to park maintenance, prompting suggestions to engage with the Department of Public Works (DPW) for more effective strategies.

Parallel to the park discussions, the meeting explored the importance of supporting local ecosystems, particularly pollinator populations. Concerns were raised about pesticide applications aimed at controlling bee populations, which could counteract efforts to attract pollinators. Education on this issue was deemed necessary, with suggestions to implement native plantings that could enhance local biodiversity. The potential for using ground cover like little blue stem, which requires minimal maintenance, was discussed as a strategy to support existing trees with large root systems.

Water quality in Fair Haven was another focal point. Residents expressed concerns about a “stench” in the Fair Haven Natural Area and a “huge slick” near the yacht club, attributed to road runoff. The commission discussed the importance of public education on water quality, proposing QR codes at access points to provide real-time data and enhance community awareness. The necessity for collaborative efforts among local organizations to disseminate water quality information effectively was emphasized, with recognition that many residents might be unaware of the potential health risks associated with water contamination.

The commission also addressed the urgency in budget allocation, with $2,700 available for environmental initiatives needing to be spent by December to avoid forfeiture. Members discussed focusing on educational programs tied to different seasons, with conversations on securing speakers and potential topics like native planting and sustainable practices. The budget discussion highlighted the need for strategic planning to avoid last-minute decisions in future cycles.

Additional topics included the potential application for a living shoreline grant to support wetland and climate resilience projects, with a focus on collaboration with Stevens Institute for a concept plan. Discussions also touched on deer management, with concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of current strategies like fencing. The commission considered engaging the business community and utilizing social media for community outreach.