The meeting opened with a discussion on the flooding issues caused by beaver dams downstream of the Harland Street culvert. The presence of three dams had impeded the water flow, with the largest dam causing the most concern. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) had initiated the removal process using hand tools, in accordance with the emergency certification guidelines. Despite these efforts, the board acknowledged the likelihood of the beavers reconstructing the dams, highlighting the cyclical nature of the issue.

Concerns about the beaver population and trapping regulations were addressed, with clarification that the current trapping season allowed for such activities without needing additional certification. However, there was advocacy for non-lethal solutions, such as beaver deceivers or pond levelers, to mitigate the situation without resorting to trapping. These devices manage water levels while allowing beavers to coexist in the environment. The board recognized the challenges faced in managing the beaver population and the resulting flooding, noting the organic composition of the road foundation as a contributing factor to repeated washouts.

Roy Chambers emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that additional rainfall could exacerbate the flooding. Discussions included potential long-term solutions, such as installing a larger culvert under Holland Street to handle the water volume. This proposal was acknowledged as a significant undertaking requiring substantial funding and competing with other town priorities.

The board also explored forming a subcommittee to investigate sustainable solutions and potential state grants for infrastructure improvements. The need for a coordinated effort among town departments and community organizations was emphasized to develop a plan that considers both ecological impacts and financial constraints. The possibility of utilizing beaver deceivers was revisited as a part of a broader strategy to manage water levels without harming wildlife.

In addition to the focus on beaver-related flooding, the board addressed other regulatory and environmental matters. A significant topic was the project involving National Grid’s gas line maintenance, which required careful consideration of environmental protections due to its proximity to wetlands. The board underscored the importance of robust erosion controls and clarified the procedural aspects of the project.

The meeting also dealt with the issuance of certificates of compliance for several residential projects, including the Walcott Woods development and the Garden Pond Restoration Project. The board stressed the necessity of clear communication and coordination among different departments and stakeholders to maintain the integrity of conservation efforts.