The committee’s approval of a green infrastructure project at Nenn Williams Park stood out as the most impactful discussion. A prospective Eagle Scout named Soam presented a proposal to address flooding issues caused by rainstorms. His plan involves removing an overgrown bush near a drainage area to create a gravel path that channels water and pollutants more effectively. The project is scheduled for October 19th and 20th, with six-hour workdays planned, and Soam has coordinated with local Boy Scouts and their families for volunteer assistance.

Soam provided a detailed cost analysis, estimating total expenses at $908.28. This included $535 for plants and gravel, $260 for snacks and water, and $63 for a chainsaw, among other supplies. The committee raised concerns about the liability involved in using a chainsaw, leading to a suggestion that public works handle the bush removal. Members also discussed the potential for the township to provide some needed items like gloves and tools to reduce project costs.

Timing for planting was a point of concern, as mid-October might be late for new plants to establish. However, Soam explained that his commitments, including marching band, limited earlier options. The committee agreed that public works could assist with follow-up watering for the new plants. Approval for the project was motioned, seconded, and received unanimous consent from the committee.

Another discussion revolved around the local deer management program. The clerk’s office managed the mailing of permits and conducted a lottery for hunters. The committee noted vacant hunting slots, particularly at County Route 518 and multiple slots on Mile Run.

Concerns were expressed about the increasing deer population, especially on Wilson Road, where one member reported observing 15 to 20 deer in broad daylight. This observation raised alarms about the lack of natural predators. There was a debate among members regarding whether the deer population had increased or decreased over the years, highlighting differing perceptions based on personal observations.

The committee also touched upon the impact of new housing developments on deer populations. There was speculation that these developments might reduce available habitat for deer, potentially leading to increased human-deer interactions. The committee agreed to review the hunting program’s effectiveness based on observed changes in deer activity and population dynamics.

Environmental concerns were another focal point of the meeting. A member raised an issue about the potential environmental impact of herbicide use in local parks, particularly on frog populations. It was noted that while the town does not use pesticides, the spraying of herbicides might have contributed to the decline of frogs. This concern led to a call for data collection on the chemicals used in the application process, with the committee awaiting information from the manager about specific chemicals utilized in herbicide treatments.

The meeting also addressed the replacement of the bird blind at Negri-Napon. Discussions revolved around the cost differences between using traditional lumber or a synthetic material known as TRX for construction. One member highlighted the high cost of lumber, noting prices of “$250 a linear foot for a thick fir board.” The consensus was on the need for a durable solution, considering the high moisture environment around the bird blind, which has led to rotting wood. Maintenance of the adjacent pond was also discussed, with concerns about overgrowth and suggestions for specialized landscaping services to manage the pond effectively.

Additionally, the committee reviewed the status of the Meadows Foundation houses, specifically the Van L house, which faces deteriorating conditions due to the foundation’s financial difficulties. The foundation currently relies on township funds for utilities and repairs, leading to concerns about its long-term viability. The committee recognized the need for a plan to address the deteriorating conditions of the houses and the financial viability of the Meadows Foundation.