The most compelling topic of the evening was the public hearing on a Notice of Intent filed by Town Administrator James Kelly for managing invasive weed species at New Bedford Reservoir Lakes 1, 2, and 4. Scott Dagger, representing the Lake Street Improvement Committee, outlined the severe impact of invasive weeds like milfoil and fanwort on the local ecosystem. He illustrated the rapid growth of these weeds, fueled by phosphorus and nitrates, and emphasized the urgency of addressing the issue to prevent the ponds from turning into marshlands.

Dagger explained that the committee had initially considered using herbicides for weed management but opted for an Eco Harvester due to concerns from local cranberry growers about potential contamination. The Eco Harvester, described as a small barge, uses rotating wheels to collect weeds from the water, which are then deposited onto the shore for disposal. This method is seen as environmentally friendly compared to chemical herbicides.

The proposal includes deploying the Eco Harvester for two weeks in August to maximize effectiveness during the peak growth season. The smaller pond near Tom Davis is particularly affected, while the larger ponds are less severely impacted due to their size and depth. Maps and diagrams were presented to illustrate the areas of infestation and the impact of invasive species.

Financial implications were a point of discussion. The cost of operating the Eco Harvester is estimated at $5,500 per day, with the goal of managing five to six acres over a five-day period. Concerns were raised about the financial burden on taxpayers, especially since some of the $75,000 budget approved for invasive weed management at the annual town meeting had already been allocated to other projects. There was a suggestion to seek additional funding from state resources, including grants from the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).

The commission also discussed the logistics of the operation, such as the need for erosion control measures like hay bales or silt fences to manage sediment and water runoff during the weed removal process. There was a consensus that managing the ponds would be a multi-year project requiring ongoing maintenance, as weeds would inevitably regrow.

Educating residents about reducing fertilizer use was suggested as a beneficial step. The role of boats in introducing invasive species was also discussed, with signage proposed to educate boaters about cleaning their equipment.

Concerns about the ecosystem were raised, particularly regarding wildlife like turtles and fish. Participants emphasized the importance of minimizing harm to these animals during the weed removal process. There was also a discussion about the need for pre-treatment surveys to understand nutrient levels and conditions before management begins.

The commission briefly discussed a proposed project for maintaining and improving a fishway, with concerns about its ecological impact. Representatives from Massachusetts Fisheries and Wildlife expressed a strong interest in preserving the natural state of the area.

Another topic of interest was the extension of an order of conditions for a project on Perry Hill Road. The request was deemed minor, with most construction already completed, and the commission unanimously approved a six-month to one-year extension to monitor the replication area for invasive species.

The meeting also included a review of the final plan for a property on Main Street, with discussions about whether amendments were needed due to minor grading improvements. The commission agreed to seek clarification from Bill Madden to determine the next steps.

Agent updates featured discussions about outreach efforts to regional engineering firms for assistance with wetland scientists and addressing environmental impacts from horse manure on properties adjacent to wetlands. The willingness of commission members to assist in site visits or evaluations was expressed.