The most substantial topic at the meeting was the proposed drainage improvements and resurfacing project at Dun State Park, located on Pearl Street in Gardner. Representatives from AECOM presented on behalf of the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), detailing plans to address runoff issues affecting the park. The project aims to enhance existing drainage features and introduce new systems, including a water quality swale and a bioretention system, to reduce runoff and improve water quality entering Dun Pond. These features will be located within a 100-foot buffer from the pond, designed to mitigate erosion and sedimentation before they reach the water.

The water quality swale will involve grading improvements and installing a corrugated slotted pipe that connects to an existing catch basin. The bioretention system will incorporate a landscape depression, stone wall, stone weir, topsoil, and native plantings to manage overflow. While the commission members expressed support for the project, recognizing its potential ecological benefits, they requested more detailed information on the proposed plantings to ensure compliance with environmental standards. Concerns about untreated runoff currently entering the pond were also highlighted, with the project representatives acknowledging challenges posed by underground ledge and oxidation. Nonetheless, they emphasized the project’s ultimate goal of enhancing the water quality of Dun Pond.

Another topic was the community notification process related to a dredging project, which raised concerns among commission members about whether downstream residents, particularly those near Murdoch Pond, were adequately informed. Mahoney Pond, downstream from the project site, is adjacent to a historic granite dam from the 1700s, amplifying the importance of community awareness due to potential impacts on the area. Despite regulations requiring notifications only for abutters within 100 feet, members advocated for broader communication, citing past issues and the importance of keeping the community informed. The discussion led to a motion to continue the hearing to align with expected comments from relevant departments, including the Department of Public Resources.

The commission also addressed updates regarding 170 Mil Street, where a non-compliance notice had been issued to the dam owner by Mass Dam Safety on August 6, 2025. Members expressed concern over the lack of communication from the dam owner, noting that the last contact was merely a “walk by” earlier in the year. The commission agreed to revisit the matter on September 8th for further updates.

The meeting also covered safety measures for a local nature trail, focusing on the trail’s entrance. Members discussed temporary solutions, such as placing a rock to prevent vehicle access, as using a bollard was deemed too hazardous for trail users. Technical discussions ensued about the trail’s specifications and the need for modifications to ensure pedestrian and cyclist safety. Some members expressed ongoing concerns about adherence to engineering standards.

Concerns about vegetation maintenance along the trail were also addressed, particularly regarding trees under a one-year warranty. Members noted that the contractor was responsible for the initial care of these trees, with any failures necessitating replacements. There was a strong interest in ensuring financial accountability, with questions raised about whether the contractor had been fully paid and the availability of retained funds from the grant to ensure compliance with maintenance standards.

The commission further discussed the proximity of the nature trail to National Grid’s utility lines, revealing a lack of communication during planning about the trail’s impact on utility access. National Grid representatives requested cooperation to adjust signage and manage the trail area for utility work expected to begin in late November. The commission emphasized the need for clear communication to prevent future misunderstandings.

Additional topics included a preliminary permit discussion for 71 Kendall Pond East, where a resident expressed interest in adding beach sand within a buffer zone, raising concerns about permit requirements. The commission discussed creating an informational packet for the property owner and updating their website to clarify permitting procedures for future applicants. Knotweed growth in the area was also noted, with plans for further communication and follow-up.