The murkiness in Grove Pond emerged as a concern, with the commission noting sediment potentially coming from upstream, under Barn Road. The source was speculated to be either the Woodland Cemetery area or from the neighboring town of Harvard. In response, the commission planned to collaborate with the agent in Harvard for further investigation. Additionally, the presence of an oily surface on the pond, possibly connected to construction activities along its main part, was brought to attention. The commission also discussed the potential removal of the Kelvin Moore Dam at Grove Pond, which would have implications for the future of the commission and the necessity of its continuity.

The water chestnut removal efforts represented a critical aspect of the commission’s environmental stewardship. A member reported on the substantial reduction of these invasive plants, highlighting the prevention of roughly 40,800 new plants thanks to their removal initiatives. The labor-intensive nature of the process was emphasized, with the member detailing the challenge of pulling a basket of plants in about four hours. Despite the progress, the future of these efforts was uncertain due to the impending retirement of key members involved in the project. The need for new leadership and the preservation of historical documentation, such as reports and maps, were discussed, with suggestions to consider archiving at the school or town library.

The commission also addressed administrative matters of Pace, an organization pivotal in local environmental conservation. With the retirement of Lori and Julie from Pace, the commission sought support for recruiting new members to ensure the continuity of the organization’s work. They discussed the settlement fund of $62,000 and potential projects that could benefit local surface water issues. Concerns were raised over the administrative aspects of maintaining Pace’s status as a 501c3 public charity, including the need for officers and board members to handle annual filings and administrative responsibilities.

In other business, the commission deliberated on proposed changes to the Panther Place subdivision off Washington Street. The changes involved extending foundation drains and expanding the clearing footprint for certain lots, with discussions on whether to require amended orders or approve them as a field change due to construction. The details of the drainage plan and its impact on the buffer zone were also debated, leading to the possibility of administrative approval for specific lots.

Updates on other environmental efforts were also provided, including knotweed removal and the upcoming opening of a playground. Ongoing projects like the Stratton Hill planning board meeting and the National Grid substation site plan were discussed, as well as the Baseline report for Shaker Mill Pond. A question regarding the toxicity of poke weed was also posed.