The commission’s focus was drawn to the proposed invasive species management areas, presented by an environmental consultant for the town’s airport. These areas were identified following a field review, targeting locations that would benefit the resources and water bodies near the airport. The commission’s scrutiny of the proposed areas emphasized the importance of strategic planning to ensure that the removal of the canopy and subsequent shrub growth did not facilitate invasive species proliferation.

During the meeting, the commission discussed the specific mitigation measures proposed for the project, which included invasive vegetation management, sediment and erosion control during construction, the use of native seed mix, invasive species treatment, and the submission of annual monitoring reports.

The proposed donation to the tree replacement fund by the airport, suggested to be $75,000 per acre of buffer zone clearing, was a contentious subject. The commission debated the adequacy of this amount and explored the guidelines governing such contributions. Additionally, the potential of planting understory trees as part of the mitigation package was deliberated, with concerns over the competition with existing shrubs and space constraints around the Vernal pool area for tree growth.

A local horticulture expert provided an estimate that around 250 trees, with calibers ranging from 3 to 15 inches, were slated for removal. The commission considered the costs of planting and maintaining replacement trees, referencing a document from the Department of Conservation and Recreation indicating that the total cost for the preparation, unloading, and planting of a tree is approximately $11. The potential costs for oak trees were discussed, with the price for a 2 to 4-inch caliper tree cited as a few hundred dollars. The commission proposed a 2:1 planting ratio in the NDZ 0 to 50 zone, suggesting that for every tree removed, two should be planted.

The commission also engaged in a detailed examination of the proposed methods for invasive species management. This included the use of herbicides, monitoring points, mechanical removal, hand cutting, and the timeline for establishing the seed mix. The goal was to limit erosion and provide adequate ground cover while considering the potential impact on existing native species.

There was a debate on the parameters for payment for tree removal, whether it should be based on the number of trees, square footage, acreage, or a combination thereof. The commission recognized the need to consult with the FAA and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (Mass DOT) for any adjustments in funding, especially if the actual number of trees to be removed exceeded initial estimates.

The commission scheduled a follow-up meeting for June 12th to further discuss the additional areas for non-native vegetation management and to finalize the contribution to the tree fund. The meeting concluded with a commitment to reconvene and make a decision on the discussed topics.