The primary topic of the meeting was the approval of a restoration plan for 172 Wickham. The commission examined the proposal to restore the land through the introduction of a specially designed seed mix. The plan was presented by the property owner, who intended to use a New England erosion control and wildlife mix to rehabilitate approximately half an acre previously cleared of brush. The commission discussed the importance of using appropriate seed mixes, considering the area’s characteristics as a floodplain and sub-buffer zone. Recommendations from the water department included incorporating a New England wetland mix.

A significant part of the discussion revolved around the necessity of boundary markers to clearly define property lines, as the clearing had encroached on town property. Although formal surveying was deemed unnecessary, the use of GPS tools or available stones was proposed to mark boundaries accurately. The commission agreed that restoration efforts could extend beyond the property line to include town property without requiring strict boundary adherence, facilitating a more comprehensive rehabilitation effort.

Long-term monitoring of the site was another focal point, with the commission opting for a typical three-year monitoring period. However, flexibility was emphasized, allowing for adjustments based on the success of the restoration. The property owner was tasked with managing invasive species manually, given the proximity to water and the preference for non-chemical methods. The restoration plan was unanimously approved, contingent on adherence to environmental guidelines and ongoing cooperation with the commission.

Following the approval of the Wickham restoration plan, attention shifted to a proposal for a property on King Street. A representative from the water department presented plans to disconnect the existing septic system and install an E1 pump system. This proposal involved removing a pool and reducing impervious surfaces to comply with environmental regulations. The commission discussed the reduction of impervious areas from over 4,000 square feet to approximately 2,460 square feet, emphasizing the environmental benefits of such efforts.

The meeting also addressed stormwater management related to a parking lot relocation project. Concerns were raised about ensuring proper resource area delineation, particularly regarding wetland field data. The commission was tasked with reviewing whether previous delineations had been properly approved, as this was critical for future development and compliance with environmental standards. The necessity of peer reviews and their associated costs was debated, with an emphasis on timely input from the conservation commission due to the ongoing planning board review.

Another highlight of the meeting was the proposal for a pollinator garden at Brown’s Woods. The initiative aimed to support at-risk pollinators such as monarchs and rusty patched bumblebees by creating a native garden serving as a Monarch Way station. The commission expressed support for the project, proposing collaboration with the proponent to expedite its implementation without undue delays from formal approvals.

In addition to these discussions, the commission explored the potential for improving access to a fishing area near the Parley property. Representatives from local utilities and officials considered collaborating on this initiative to provide recreational space for residents. Concerns were raised about the suitability of an alternative site near the sewage treatment plant, and the commission emphasized the importance of creating a safe and inviting space for fishing, particularly for children.

The commission also tackled the issue of hazardous trees near Long Lake Park, following concerns raised by a local church. An arborist’s report had flagged several trees as hazardous, prompting a proposal for a site visit to assess their health and determine if removal was necessary.

Finally, the meeting included discussions on parking at Webster Woods and the FY27 conservation budget. The commission evaluated the feasibility of renting nearby commercial parking spaces for public use and considered the implications of steep terrain on accessibility. The budget discussion focused on maintaining the current fiscal allocations, with a motion to approve the wetland revolving fund budget receiving unanimous support.