Gardner Commission Tackles Wetland Restoration and Violations

Overview: The Gardner Conservation Commission recently convened to delve into a variety of issues, with focus on wetland restoration, potential environmental violations, and the management of stormwater. The meeting’s most discussions centered around a notice of intent for a project on Colony Road, aimed at extending an existing storage facility and incorporating additional storage units, some of which encroach upon buffer zones adjacent to vegetated wetlands. A rigorous third-party review by Time Bond provided an extensive analysis of the site, revealing the intricacies of historical site alterations and their impacts on wetland delineation.

Gardner Conservation Commission Debates Impact on Crystal Lake

Overview: The Gardner Conservation Commission convened to discuss several important environmental matters, with a key focus on the debate over proposed routes for a new bike trail and its potential impact on Crystal Lake and surrounding wetlands. The meeting also addressed requests for an extension of the Order of Conditions for vegetation management on Kendall Pond, the continuation of a nature trail connector project, and concerns regarding the development of various local projects.

Gardner Commission Debates Environmental Impact of Trail Extension

Overview: The recent Gardner Conservation Commission meeting centered on the discussion regarding the proposed North Central Pathway, a nature trail connector extending through a forested area and across an old railway. The project has sparked concerns due to its environmental impact, especially pertaining to a vernal pool and surrounding wetlands. The commission examined potential alternative routes, wetland replication viability, and the preservation of local wildlife and water supply, reflecting divergent views on the pathway’s development and ecological considerations.