The primary focus of the meeting was on deer population management. A resident initiated this discussion by expressing concerns about the coordination between local municipalities, including Little Silver and Rumson, on this issue. The resident referenced a state representative’s comment that deer typically travel within a range of about one kilometer, noting that while the mayor had reached out to other mayors regarding deer management, those municipalities had opted against conducting a deer hunt. This raised questions about the implications if Fair Haven proceeded with such a strategy independently. The resident also mentioned private hunting on larger properties as an alternative to a public hunt.

The conversation evolved to include a resident with expertise in wildlife management, who is scheduled to present at the next meeting. This individual has compiled studies and alternative methods for managing the deer population, including non-lethal options. Members of the commission acknowledged prior discussions about deer management, with non-lethal methods previously deemed impractical or ineffective. However, there was an openness to exploring new perspectives, with one member stating, “it’s not a binary choice… it’s worth listening to just in case.” This sentiment underscored the recognition of the complexities involved in wildlife management and the importance of a well-informed decision-making process.

Another topic was stormwater management and the impact on the community. Discussions highlighted the interconnectedness of various environmental issues, particularly the role of stormwater runoff, pesticides, and living shorelines. One participant emphasized the importance of a vibrant living shoreline and robust planting to alleviate stormwater issues. However, concerns were raised about the existing infrastructure’s ability to handle increased water flow resulting from ongoing development. This sparked a dialogue about the need to revisit zoning and building codes to ensure they align with environmental goals.

The commission engaged in a collaborative exercise to explore six specific topic areas in greater detail, analyzing points raised during the meeting and formulating questions about past efforts, assistance needed, and information lacking. Previous efforts, like hydra raking, had not produced the desired improvements, prompting questions about the root causes of the pond’s issues, including fertilizer runoff and recent construction activities. There was a consensus on the need for clearer communication and historical context regarding past actions to avoid repeating mistakes.

Community engagement and education were recurring themes throughout the meeting. Members discussed the proposal for community cleanups targeting various parks and areas beyond the Third Street Trail, with specific mention of knotweed at Fourth Creek. There was also a focus on sustainability education, with suggestions for organizing a series of talks on practical experiences regarding heat pumps, electric vehicles, and home efficiency improvements. The goal is to provide insights into the financial aspects of these upgrades, including federal and state rebates available to residents.

The commission also highlighted the importance of communication between the Department of Public Works (DPW) and the community, particularly regarding pesticide use on fields where children play. There was a strong sentiment against using chemicals that could harm the environment and public health. The need for the DPW to prioritize natural area maintenance over playing field upkeep was emphasized, as many natural issues, such as fallen trees and invasive species, remain unaddressed.

Further discussions revolved around the Green Team’s achievements, including receiving the 2024 Jack Environmental Achievement Award for their collaborative efforts. The commission addressed the Eagle Scout project led by Alex Aronik to expand the pollinator garden, involving fundraising through a car wash event. Upcoming events like the fall sports swap, in collaboration with the Rumson Environmental Commission, were also highlighted as initiatives promoting sustainability and community engagement.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the need for a strategic plan, aligning the commission’s vision with actionable steps. There was a proposal for a joint meeting with the grants committee to identify and align priorities, recognizing the importance of planning and funding in achieving long-term environmental goals. The importance of fostering a dialogue within the community was emphasized.