Amherst Conservation Commission Tackles Drone Regulations and Conservation Funding

Overview: The Amherst Conservation Commission meeting on February 11, 2026, focused on several issues including the regulation of drones over conservation land, ongoing conservation projects, and the need for clarity in public communication protocols. The commission also discussed funding for conservation projects and land management policies.

Amherst Conservation Commission Deliberates Snowblower Use on Conservation Land and Policy Overhaul

Overview: In its recent meeting, the Amherst Conservation Commission tackled a variety of issues from the proposed use of snowblowers on conservation land to the ongoing reevaluation of conservation policies and regulations. The commission’s decisions could have lasting impacts on community engagement with conservation lands, while also ensuring the protection and proper management of these vital natural resources.

Amherst Conservation Commission Prioritizes Hydrological Studies and Public Safety Enhancements

Overview: During its recent meeting, the Amherst Conservation Commission focused on topics concerning public safety and environmental assessments. The commission discussed the development of a mixed-use project at Southeast Street and Belchertown Road, emphasizing the need for hydrological studies and peer reviews to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and to evaluate potential impacts on resource areas. Additionally, the commission addressed improvements at Puffers Pond to enhance public safety, including the dam and dyke’s design and permitting processes. The meeting also covered the implications of the area’s mild drought, which may affect conservation projects and wetland delineations.

Amherst Conservation Commission Faces Challenges with Erosion, Wetland Delineations, and Housing Projects

Overview: The recent Amherst Conservation Commission meeting tackled several issues, notably ongoing erosion problems in North Amherst, the complexities of wetland delineations during drought conditions, and the intricacies of a proposed housing development. The commission discussed collaborative strategies to address these challenges, emphasizing the need for regulatory revisions and community involvement.

Amherst Conservation Commission Challenges Eversource’s Extensive Tree Clearing Proposal

Overview: The Amherst Conservation Commission convened on October 22, 2025, to address a series of issues, most notably the permit application submitted by Eversource for their WT11 project. This application proposes widespread tree clearing, which has sparked significant concern among commission members. The proposed clearing is feared to have profound environmental impacts, particularly on wetland areas and local water resources. The commission unanimously voted to oppose the project, citing Eversource’s non-compliance with requests from the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) and potential negative consequences on Amherst’s drinking water sources.