The commission heard from Scott Myers of Oxbow Associates regarding a habitat enhancement project at zero Taylor Street, proposed by the Littleton Electric and Water Department. The plan aims to construct a small pond and establish a dry sandy area to support rare species conservation linked to the Trumbull well project. Myers detailed the project’s dual components, outlining plans for a year-round water-retaining pond with shallow shelves to accommodate amphibian and reptile habitats. The sandy soil from the pond excavation would be relocated to enhance existing habitats. Additionally, a densely forested area would be cleared to create a dry sandy habitat, with construction planned for fall or winter to avoid disrupting active species seasons. The commission expressed support but acknowledged the need for a D file number before proceeding and considered conducting a site visit.

Dave Bark presented the draft treatment plan for invasive species control at Forge Pond, involving a multi-year herbicide treatment with Priscilore to manage Eurasian and variable milfoil. The systemic herbicide treatment is contingent upon Westford Town Council approval. Despite budget constraints, with Littleton’s contribution capped at $40,000 against an $80,000 treatment estimate, the commission unanimously approved the proposed treatments, noting the effectiveness of previous winter drawdowns and planned surveys to assess invasive growth.

The agenda also covered infrastructure improvements under the Sandy Ponitto reliability project, led by the New England Power Company. Allison Milman from BSC Group detailed modifications to the Notice of Intent plans, involving rebuilding 345 KV transmission lines with concrete foundations and steel poles, supported by temporary construction matting and wetland replication planting plans. The commission scrutinized the potential environmental impacts, emphasizing the importance of sediment controls and proposing time-of-year restrictions to minimize disruption during wetter seasons. The project intends to enhance maintenance and emergency response capabilities with new switch structures outside the Littleton Municipal Substation.

Additionally, the commission addressed a proposed minor modification on Beaverbrook Road, presented by Sean Keenan, involving a less invasive culvert design with precast footings. The commission deferred final approval pending a stamped engineering plan but showed general agreement on the modification’s environmental benefits.

The meeting also explored ongoing environmental restoration efforts at several sites, including Blood Road and Blood Road, with discussions on erosion control measures, plant species selection for bank stabilization, and compliance with enforcement orders. Commissioners emphasized the importance of native plantings and minimal disturbance techniques to preserve ecological integrity.

In other business, the commission considered a public hearing for managing lily pad overgrowth at Cobb Pond, proposed by John Burilli. The plan involves resuming sonar and fluridone treatments to control lily pad proliferation, with preliminary support from the commission pending a Department of Environmental Protection number.