The most pressing topic of the meeting centered around the storage of a camper at zero Littleton Road. The property, located near Beaverbrook, became a focal point due to multiple resident inquiries. A representative for the site explained the camper’s function as a temporary lodging during maintenance visits to tend to blueberry and blackberry bushes. The camper, a fifth wheel, is not permanently situated and is primarily present during the summer months. The commission discussed the camper’s compliance with local regulations, focusing on its location on gravel rather than designated parking spaces approved in a previous RDA from November 2023.

Concerns were raised about the property’s proximity to wetlands, specifically within the 100-foot buffer zone. However, the commission determined that the camper’s presence, being temporary and non-permanent, did not constitute a violation. While the camper is visible to residents, its impact on the wildlife habitat was deemed minimal. The commission highlighted the importance of distinguishing between a camper and storage containers, which could obstruct wildlife movement. It was agreed that the health department should be informed of the camper’s storage, even though no immediate conservation issues were identified.

Another topic was the management of invasive species at the Warren Pole Conservation Reservation. The commission discussed a proposal to address the prevalence of invasive plants like Asian bittersweet, trees of heaven, and burning bushes. Through a contract with Oxbow Associates, 30 hours of herbicide treatment, funded by Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds, are scheduled for August and September. The project aims to control invasive species without affecting surface water areas.

The commission emphasized the importance of a long-term commitment to invasive management. Concerns were raised about the potential health risks to local wildlife from berries of invasive plants, prompting a recommendation for a wildlife habitat study. The commission also considered incorporating native species planting to restore and enhance local ecosystems.

Financial considerations for the project were discussed, with the initial funding for herbicide treatment estimated at approximately $4,500. The commission acknowledged that while this first round of treatment would not entirely resolve the issue, it would impact invasive species control efforts. The commission underscored the necessity of ongoing monitoring and community involvement in managing invasive populations.

Regulatory compliance was another focal point during the meeting, highlighted by a Notice of Intent for a construction project on Jesse Road. The project involved demolishing an existing single-family home near a bordering vegetated wetland. The commission reviewed the project’s adherence to local regulations. Public input from neighboring residents raised concerns about visual buffers and notification inaccuracies, which the commission addressed by confirming the proper representation of the applicant and focusing on wetland protection considerations.

The meeting also included updates on local development projects, such as the Chelsea Mall renovations, involving changes to parking areas and the addition of pad sites for potential restaurants. The commission anticipated further discussions at the next meeting.

Land management updates were provided, including the removal of hazardous trees at the Thanksgiving Forest and the management of beaver activity. The commission noted the importance of addressing safety concerns on conservation lands and maintaining clear communication with the public regarding land use and management practices.