The commission dedicated a portion of the meeting to the success and future improvement of Open Farm Day. There was a consensus on the importance of farms fully opening up their operations for public education. The commission stressed the need to set clear expectations for participating farms and to ensure they adhere to the event’s theme. There was a suggestion to provide visitors with estimated timeframes for each farm on the event passport, which would assist in planning their visits. In preparation for the Historical Society presentation, members were assigned to discuss the past, present, and future of farming in Southwick, with a focus on visual aids for the presentation. The commission also explored the idea of creating a one-page description of each farm for the event passport and using QR codes to direct visitors to additional information online. Enthusiasm was expressed about the potential media coverage for Open Farm Day, including a radio show segment and news coverage.

Transition in the town’s administrative leadership was another topic of discussion, with a decision on a new town administrator from Hardwick being mentioned. The commission also covered the reappointment process, noting the need for incumbent members to submit letters of interest, which some found cumbersome.

Environmental concerns were addressed through a debate on whether to recommend proceeding with dredging Pri’s Pond. Legalities and exemptions related to the dredging were discussed, alongside considerations for assisting with improvements post-dredging. In a broader environmental scope, the commission touched on the importance of reducing food waste and leveraging modern technology in farming. There was talk of taking photos of a local farm’s digestor and suggestions for incorporating indigenous land acknowledgements into farming practices, in line with the master plan’s emphasis on farming and green businesses. The commission also mentioned updating the open space plan and acquiring GIS mapping skills to benefit local farmers.

The commission discussed community involvement and outreach, with plans for farm cleanup day set for April 28th, inviting local schools for student participation. The need for equipment and consideration of age restrictions for volunteers were also debated. Alongside this, the commission touched on the launch of the South Land Trust, a nonprofit aimed at conserving Southwick’s land, with a cleanup day scheduled for May 18th, highlighting opportunities for collaboration between the trust and the commission.

Plans for additional community events were also outlined, including the possibility of hosting a Trunk or Treat event, complete with themes and concerns about necessary security and parking logistics. There was a suggestion to employ drones for the event. The commission expressed the need to decide on a new theme for the event and discussed feedback received about Open Farm Day.