The meeting’s primary focus was on the Masters’ proposal to preserve a 37-acre property on Canary Road, which has historical ties to an 80-year-old dairy farm. The Masters purchased the land last summer to prevent its development, initially planning for the Southwick Land Trust to acquire it. However, due to funding issues, they are now seeking support from the community preservation committee for the town to purchase either the land or a conservation restriction. The Masters emphasized the property’s ongoing agricultural use and its potential for continued farming. They mentioned local farmer Mike Sol as a potential candidate to farm the land should the current farmer be unable to continue.

Access to the property presents challenges, with existing rail trail access and frontage on Tannery Road complicated by a pending easement agreement with a neighboring property. The Masters outlined potential scenarios for the town, including purchasing the land or a conservation restriction to maintain its undeveloped state. They acknowledged community resistance to such purchases but drew parallels to a recent property acquisition related to a historic museum that received community support. The Masters requested the Agricultural Commission’s endorsement, leading to a motion to draft a supportive letter, which was unanimously approved by the commission.

The meeting also addressed wildlife concerns raised by a resident who shared her challenges in keeping chickens safe from local predators. The resident, who recently moved to Southwick, sought temporary land to house her chickens, describing them as beloved pets. The discussion revealed prevalent wildlife threats, including bears and mountain lions, which pose significant risks to chickens. Participants shared experiences of bear attacks on chicken coops, emphasizing the need for constant vigilance and protective measures like electric fencing. A community member offered land for the resident’s chickens.

Another topic was community engagement through educational initiatives and events. The commission discussed plans for an annual farmer’s forum to educate landowners on topics such as regenerative agriculture, invasive species, and sustainable irrigation. Members debated the sequencing of these initiatives. The commission also highlighted the importance of educating landowners on permanently protecting their land, with an emphasis on Massachusetts General Law Chapter 61, which addresses agricultural land taxation.

The commission’s efforts to engage with the community were further reflected in discussions about a farm parade scheduled for November 1st. The logistics included organizing a work session for parade preparations, decorations for the float, and engaging children with candy distribution. Plans to include a tractor and potentially chickens in the parade were discussed with enthusiasm, alongside considerations for participant seating and the arrangement of hay bales.

Additionally, the commission reflected on recent successful community events, including an open house where they promoted the Right to Farm bylaws and engaged children with seed planting activities. A “thank you to farmers” event allowed children to express gratitude to local farmers, fostering connections between the community and agricultural producers.

The commission recognized the need for ongoing visibility and community involvement, discussing ideas for future events and collaborations with local educational institutions. The meeting concluded with a focus on addressing invasive plant species, emphasizing public education on identification and eradication methods. The commission expressed intent to involve local schools and organizations in these efforts.