Meeting Minutes of January 4, 2000

Present:
Diane Fitzpatrick, Chair; Hub Seward, Vice Chair
Richard Medlyn, Rodney Dellafelice, Chris Guida, Pierce Rigrod, full members
Chris Costantino, Judy Gross, Kyle Flanery, Alternate Members
Excused:
Robert Walsh

After considerable discussion, Dick Medlyn made the following motion:
"The Milford Conservation Commission supports the dredging of Osgood Pond and will present a warrant to transfer $36,000 from the Town Forest Fund to the Conservation Land Fund."

Chris Costantino seconded the motion. The motion was unanimously approved by the Commission members present.

There being no further business to come before this meeting, the meeting was adjourned at 8:20 PM

The next regular meeting of the Conservation Commission is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 13 at 7 pm in the Board of Selectmen's Meeting Room in the Town Hall.

Meeting Minutes of January 13, 2000

Present:
Diane Fitzpatrick, Chairperson, Hub Seward, Vice Chairman
Richard Medlyn, Chris Guida, full members
Chris Costantino, Judy Gross, Kyle Flanery, Alternate Members

Excused:
Pierce Rigrod, Rodney Dellafelice, John Bierschenk

Others Attending:
Rosario Ricciardi, Chairman Board of Selectmen
Cy Thibault, President; Dave Parker, Director; Souhegan Boys' and Girls' Club
Jay Heavysides, Meridian Land Services
Michael J. Leo, P.E., Senior Project Manager, Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc.
Deborah L. Dietz, P.E. Project Manager; Gregory J. Rollo, V.P. Development - The Richmond Company
Adel Fiorillo, Wetlands Scientist at NH Soils

MINUTES:
Upon a motion made by Chris Costantino, and seconded by Judy Gross, the minutes of the December 9, 1999 meeting were accepted as presented.
The accepted and signed minutes of the January 4, 2000 meeting were distributed for members to review.

APPOINTMENTS:

1. Dave Parker and Cy Thibault, SOUHEGAN VALLEY BOYS' AND GIRLS' CLUB.
   A written proposal that the Souhegan Valley Boys' and Girls' Club collaborate with the Town of Milford's Conservation Commission in developing and managing an outdoor education center and day camp for the youth of Souhegan Valley at the Hitchiner Town Forest was presented to the members for consideration.
   The proposal is as follows:
   Souhegan Valley Boys and Girls Club Outdoor and Day Camp Center Proposed -
   That the Souhegan Valley Boys and Girls Club collaborate with the Town of Milford's Conservation Commission in developing and managing an Outdoor Education Center and Day Camp for the youth of the Souhegan Valley at the Hitchiner Town Forest.
   
   Program Design -
   The Center will be used all four seasons.
   
   • Summer programs --
     • Summer day camp for 75 to 100 boys and girls per week for 8 to 9 weeks grades I - 6.
     • Adventure/Leadership Camp for 20 boys and girls per week for 6 to 8 weeks grades 7 - 9 (base camp)
     • Weekend specialty programs for family groups such as a Family Adventure
   • Fall Programs
     • Wilderness Works leadership and Alternative Education Program for teens
     • School Outdoor educational programs geared to team building and environmental awareness (available to all schools within the Souhegan Valley Clubs program area responsibility)
     • Corporate Outdoor educational programs geared to team building
   • Winter Programs
     • Wilderness Works leadership and Alternative Education Program for teens
     • School Outdoor educational programs geared to team building and environmental awareness (available to all schools within the Souhegan Valley Clubs program area responsibility)
     • Corporate Outdoor educational programs geared to team building
   • Spring Programs
     • Wilderness Works leadership and Alternative Education Program for teens
     • School Outdoor educational programs geared to team building and environmental awareness (available to all schools within the Souhegan Valley Clubs program area responsibility)
     • Corporate Outdoor educational programs geared to team building
   
   Property Development:
   To develop and carry out the program design as suggested to its maximum the following should be done:
   
   1. Build a pavilion style building at least 24' by 48' that will provide shade, shelter from the rain, and a focal area for kids
   2. Build a storage/ office building/ headquarters which would have phone and electricity
   3. Build a lower and upper challenge course, which would include using ropes programs (fully capable of being made inaccessible for after hours) and lower elements such as the traditional wall.
   4. Portable toilets will be used (maybe in the future we would have actual)
   5. Water needs to be made available for drinking purposes
   We can run minimally that is to say we can just use the property as is but the attraction and the impact would be a great deal less.
   
   Implementation or the How To:
   I see the Souhegan Valley Boys and Girls Club Outdoor Education Center or the Hitchiner Outdoor Education Center managed and staffed by the "Club". We would get the trained staff to run the outdoor adventure program and use community volunteers to help with environmental educational part (also some paid staff). We would maintain trails and property with our teen leadership program as well as with adult staff. We would provide transportation to the site by vans or busses. We would develop the educational curriculum with input from the commission as well as input from local educators. We would pursue grants to help finance operations and develop a fee structure that would take into account organizations nonprofit status, as well as how much is affordable. We would provide members of the "Club" with free access to special programs that will run on a weekly basis in conjunction with out drop-in program.
   
   Ideally the day camp would be running this summer. The members liked the idea, however later in the meeting some concerns were raised. These concerns were as follows: The need to understand how often the area will be used and by whom. Availability to general public. How much area will be impacted by the project (buildings, picnic areas, ropes course), and by the potentially large numbers of people on the trails. Multiple uses, such as hunting and overnight camping. MCC ownership of buildings. Liability issues. MCC will need to manage and limit camp fire regulations and numbers of people. It was decided that Diane will talk to Planning Board about traffic issues and to the Board of Selectmen about liability. The members will discuss the proposal further at their work session on January 27, and get in touch with Dave Parker.
   
   
2. PONEMAH HILL & FOSTER RD. D&F, M53/34, Roger Parsons, Arlington Development Corp.
   The proposal consists of a total subdivision of 85 acres with 8 large lots, with frontage on Ponemah Hill and Foster Rds. There will be a conservation easement around the majority of the wetlands and there will be 3 impacts; a temporary disturbance for connection to a well and two driveway crossings, one of which will require a culvert. Well and septic will service each house. There are 35 acres in back for which no plans have been made to develop at this time. A site walk had been done on this project on Dec. 18, 1999. Mr. Parsons had discussed with the Planning Board concerns of neighbors with flooding that had occurred due to heavy timbering of this land. Arrows drawn on his map were to show direction of flow of run off water. A culvert was added in deference to their concerns and Roger pointed out that landscaping will be done by homeowners and that the density of building is low. The land is also seeing a large number of maples regenerating in the clear cut. He mentioned that an abutter was concerned about water being diverted from a dug well, but the waterway is still there. Roger was informed that the Commission will approve the project and will send a letter out tomorrow.
   
   
3. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL D&F, M38/17, 50& 58, Jay Heavysides
   The proposed plan for the elementary school on Whitten road was presented with 1 wetland impact. The proposal calls for a road crossing where there now exists a gravel roadway crossing with a 12" PVC culvert. The road will be 24 feet of pavement with an additional large shoulder on the west side for a possible future sidewalk. The crossing will be upgraded to two 36" culverts with a headwall and has an impact of 1625 sq. ft. which is less than what is in the application. The Commission voted to recommend approval of the D&F application for the crossing to the Wetlands Bureau. Some members will attend the Planning Board session on Tues. to express concerns regarding the parking lot and drainage. Jay mentioned that because of the size of the project they have to go for an erosion control permit by the state.
   
   
4. MILFORD COMMONS D&F, M44/10
   Diane mentioned to the group that the Planning Board will be asking for opinions of MCC on stormwater management.
   
   Deborah Dietz gave an overview of the project. The project is located near the junction of 101A and the westbound ramps of 101, across from Lorden's Plaza. It consists of 3 new structures replacing a former lumber facility and barns. There are wetlands adjacent to Welch Pond with a culvert that runs underneath the property and discharges by the westbound lanes. The structures are a large retail center and 2 restaurants along 101A. Information from the D&F application shows that the impervious surface will encompass 8 acres of the 12.5 acre site. There will be a main access across from Lorden's Plaza, (existing lane that goes into lumber center will be expanded) and one more point of access at one of the restaurants. The percent greenspace is 39%.
   
   Mike Leo described the existing drainage and wetlands on the property.
   Adele Fiorillo described the proposed mitigation to the wetlands. They propose to move an existing culvert so that its outlet from Welch Pond releases in a different location. They had discovered some wetlands that since 1994 had been filled without a permit. They propose to fill in a portion of the ditch, allow an area to remain filled, restore other areas to wetlands, and create a stream channel. They would create a longer flow path that would tie into the existing ditch. The plan would impact 104 linear ft. of stream and create 180 linear ft. of stream. A grading plan would create slope to diminish flow velocities and would allow some water to be diverted to lobes to allow for some standing water. The main flow channel in the middle would be lined with 100% biodegradable matting with a seed mix underneath. There will be a high diversity of shrubs (7 species, plus a wet mix including grasses and wildflowers) in that it is believed the area was originally a scrub/shrub wetland. The mitigation area is sited away from the development as much as possible. Adel feels that the water quality will improve due to longer flow path and existence of extension ponds. The impact is 1,293 sq. ft. plus a temporary impact of 434 sq. ft.to connect to the stream. The mitigation from the previous impact will be 4,400 sq. ft. and the impact to the remaining land is 1,742 sq.ft. The total proposed impact is 3,469 sq.ft. which includes temporary impact and that which has already been impacted. They propose to create/restore 15,500 sq.ft.
   
   A SITE WALK was scheduled for Saturday, January 29 at 8:30 AM. Permission for abutters to enter property was asked for and granted by Mike Leo.

1. POLICY & PROCEDURE, FINAL DRAFT, MEETINGS: Changes that were discussed and made to the Meetings chapter of the Policy and Procedure Manual are as follows:
   • Appointment scheduling: The 24 hour time limit will remain as is.
   • Under voting: It was added that 2/3 of the members must be present in order to vote to go to public hearing for land expenditures.
   • That permission from owners for abutters and public to enter property on site walks will be solicited is added.
   • Committee Meetings is deleted from the Work Session section. It was felt that Committee meetings are addressed in the Membership section.
   Chris Costantino made a motion to accept the MEETINGS chapter as amended by the committee. Hub Seward seconded and the vote was unanimous in favor.
   These three chapters (Office, Membership, and Meetings) will be sent to the Board of Selectmen for their blessings.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

1. Milford Trails Committee - Bob Walsh. The committee has identified 4 trail systems they feel are important to the town as their initial focus; 1) Monson/Federal Hill Loop, 2) Osgood Pond Loop, 3) Souhegan River Loop and 4) The Amherst Trail. These four trails are important to the Souhegan Valley Trail System (SVTS) and have the potential to include several destinations in the surrounding towns as well as important sites and sights in Milford.
2. Open Space Zoning Overlay - Diane Fitzpatrick. The Planning Board has accepted the Ordinance as presented by the committee, with minor changes, for inclusion on the Warrant. There were 3 public hearings on all the proposed zoning changes (Wetlands, Telecommunications, Adult Entertainment) January 4, 11 & 18, 6:30, BOS meeting room.
3. Policy & Procedure - Judy Gross. With the vote at the January Commission to accept the chapter on meetings as revised by the committee, the first section of the manual is complete. The manual in available on-line. The chapters remaining will cover land acquisition and management, wetland issues and interactions with other town boards and officials.
4. Beaver Brook Association - Dick Medlyn. Beaver Brook has updated their trail map of the Burns/Holland Farm in Milford adding directions, a little history of the property and some information on Beaver Brook Association. As soon as the maps are received from the printer the Commission will make them available in the town hall.
5. Wellhead Protection - John Biershenk (Diane). The wellhead protection ordinance covering a 4,000 square foot radius of the Curtis Wells has been adopted by the Board of Selectmen. There has been a committee formed that will be trained to assist the Code Enforcement Administrator in the education of the properties involved.
6. Easements - Rodney DellaFelice. The easement document for the Johnson property, Map 47 Lot 15, has been reviewed by Town Council. The site plan has been completed with the conservation easement covering approximately 48 acres. The property owners are reviewing the document. We can expect closure soon.
7. Wetland Protection: - Diane Fitzpatrick. The Planning Board has excepted the revision of the Wetlands Conservation Ordinance presented by the Commission, with minor changes. The revised ordinance will be on the 2000 Ballot along with three other Zoning changes, Open Space, Telecommunications and Adult Entertainment.

There being no further business to come before this meeting, the meeting was adjourned at 9:12 PM.

The next regular meeting of the Conservation Commission is scheduled for Thursday, Feb 10, at 7 PM, in the Board of Selectmen's Meeting Room in the Town Hall.

The next work session is scheduled for Thursday, January 27 at 7PM in the DPW Meeting Room.
The agenda will include further discussion of the Boy's & Girl's Club use of Hitchiner Town Forest and discussion on projects for the coming year relative to our focus on education.

Meeting Minutes of January 27, 2000

Present:
Diane Fitzpatrick, Chairperson, Hub Seward, Vice Chairman
Richard Medlyn, Pierce Rigrod, full members
Chris Costantino, Alternate Member

Meeting Minutes of February 10, 2000

1. POLICY & PROCEDURE MANUAL, Land Acquisition and Maintenance, first draft. This chapter was reviewed by the members and the following suggestions were made:
   • Under 2. In the first bullet, it was suggested that "in perpetuity" be removed, in case a landowner wanted to preserve their land for a limited amount of time.
   • Under # 2, in the third bullet, it was suggested that "and may contact the owner to discuss the matter further" be added.
   • Under #3, it was suggested that "at a regularly scheduled meeting" be removed, in that members may want a preliminary discussion of the land held in a non-public type of meeting.
   • Under #6, the wording was changed to read, "If sufficient information is available, the Commission….
   • Under #12,it was suggested that "maps" be changed to survey and plot plan, and P&S be stated as Purchase and Sale Agreement.
   • Under #14,add the word "be" (If the property is to be)
   • Where the words "us and we" occur, use "the Commission".
   • #'s 2-14 should be identified as a sequential process, perhaps using the wording "The following are the suggested general sequence for preserving, protecting and/or acquiring property."
   
   
   
2. 10 RULES OF THE COMMISSION: Ch1, pg. 4a and 4b of Members Red Information handbook. These rules were adopted in 1992, amended in 1997, and are addressed in the current Policy and Procedure Manual. Hub made a motion that these rules be superceded by the Policy and Procedure Manual. Chris Costantino seconded, and the vote was unanimous in favor.
   
   
3. BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB: SUMMER 2000. The updated proposal from Dave Parker was reviewed and is as follows:
   
   February 4, 2000
   
   To: Conservation Committee
   From: Dave Parker
   Re: Hitchiner Town Forest
   
   I would like to propose the following - to use the Hitchiner Town Forest for our outdoor education part of our summer camp program to include:
   
   -usage for 24 to 30 children driven to property by vans (1/3 total camp population)
   -2 staff youth counselors
   -1 specialty staff
   
   Program Format would include:
   hiking and exploring
   fauna and flora study
   possible garden
   archery (we would bring the targets and take them away each day)
   group dynamic new games program
   
   Needs/usage
   - will use fields for group dynamic games, archery, and gardening area
   - will use wooded areas for exploring, fauna and flora study, and hiking
   - will need porta toilets ( we will take our trash out with us each day)
   
   Dates and Times:
   - June 26 - August 25, Monday - Friday, 9:30AM - 1:00 PM
   - Anyone could use the property even while we are in session as long as they didn't impact the camp process
   
   I hope this helps in explaining exactly what we plan on doing at least for this summer. Thank you for your consideration. You can reach me at home during the evenings 672-7036 or email rgang@dparker.mv.com. "The Positive Place for Kids"
   
   Discussion included questions regarding; permit policies (there are only permits for overnight camping and fires, no policy re day usage.), field mowing (DPW mows trails at no charge, all 3 fields for $500, 1x per year & poison ivy is a problem.), and usage issues (we cannot grant a right of exclusive use of the land and must be careful of future uses, in that we don't want to be responsible for schedules or conflict resolution between groups.) It was agreed that a letter would be sent to the Boy's and Girl's Club granting "non-exclusive " use of the forest, stating that consideration must be given for public access during activities., and asking that they keep in touch with us if they are going to expand the program. It had been decided at the work session that the Commission would like to have a pavilion built at the forest for general public use, perhaps next year. Chris Costantino is doing some research on it.
   
   
4. MILFORD COMMONS, M44/10, recommendation to Wetlands Bureau. Site walk report.
   It was reported that on the Feb. 5 site walk, 3 people from the engineering firm and Mr. Lorden joined Dick Medlyn, Chris Costantino and Diane Fitzpatrick. The Commission members felt that the proposed work to be done would be an improvement of the wetlands, in that they are replacing an already man-made wetland with a larger man-made wetland. The three Commission members at the site walk agreed to recommend to the commission that the commission recommend to the Wetlands Bureau that the plan be approved. No vote was taken at the site walk.
   Hub moved to accept the recommendation of the site walk attendees. Kyle seconded. One member abstained and all others voted in favor of the motion.
   
   
5. BICENTENNIAL PARK BENCHES. The benches are in and are stored at the old tomb at Riverside. DPW will assemble and put up in the Spring. Dick Medlyn will order, purchase, and install plaques for both benches that will say "Provided By the Milford Conservation Commission".

1. MEMBER STATUS: John Bierschenk
   A memo was received from John as follows:
   I am starting a company with a business partner from my current company. The business will involve remediation of hazardous waste sites. I will be very busy getting started as a two man company. We plan to grow fast and therefore my time will become even more limited.
   I therefore need to resign my role as an alternate member of the conservation commission. I have been feeling quite guilty for not contributing these past few months and don' t see that changing over the next few years. I have very much enjoyed being part of a great group. You've done an excellent job in your tenure as Chairman. Thanks for letting me serve, even in my limited capacity.
   Thanks and wish me luck!
   John Bierschenk
   
   A motion to accept John's resignation was made by Rodney and seconded by Bob. Vote was unanimous in favor. It was mentioned that he had done some very good things for the Commission.
   
   
2. BROX PURCHASE. Conservation position.
   Planning Board has asked the Commission to make the fact it supports the purchase of the BROX Property known. Diane suggested that a letter to the editor in the Cabinet could be written stating the Commission's opinion on this purchase. The letter could mention the Greenbelt, the bog, trails connecting the Burns land with the Sullivan and Tucker Brook land, definition of greenbelt, educational value of the wetland (school is right there), proximity of that land to two large conservation areas.

1. JOHNSON EASEMENT. Rodney Dellafelice
   Rodney stated that:
   
   • The owner would like the last paragraph to be removed, in that although she is not against the idea, she would not like to have a trail now. Removal would not preclude a trail's creation in the future.
   • 12 ft road as access to easement area may need to be wider. Perhaps the words 12 foot can be removed. The owner will check with her lawyer.
   • Use of easement for farming. If used to raise animals, need structures. Permanent structures are not allowed on the property and the owner is happy with the wording as is.
   • Nichols-Smith Conservation Land Trust has not gotten back to Rodney yet, and he will look into other options in case Nichols-Smith does not pan out.
   • Marking the boundaries of the easement was discussed with the decision being that the Commission could do any desired marking and avoid cost incurred having it done by others. The survey map that exists is the legal reference to boundary lines, and most borders are clear (RR beds, roads. etc.)
     
     
2. TRAILS. Robert Walsh
   Four major trails systems that will be started with are identified:
   
   1. Starting from the Oval a trail runs through Emerson park to the Stage Festival, to Mayflower, to Amherst.
   2. From Oval heading south to RR bed, following RR bed south to Brookline line, crossing Rt. 13 over by Melendy Pond, there is a trail system to Birch Hill, to Monson Village , and then north to Federal Hill, need to put in about 200 ft. of trails to Hampshire Hills system, and back to town.
   3. Souhegan River trail system.
   4. A system that goes out to Osgood pond which hooks up to the Burns land and the Tucker Brook land.
      
      
   Beyond that they would like to contact Conservation Commissions in other towns to establish the Souhegan Valley Trail System which would hook into the Russell Abbotts and Sheldricks Forests and up to Purgatory Falls and over to Joe English. The concept is to tie in all the conservation land in the Souhegan Valley through an existing trail system. In the next month the landowners will be identified and a strategy will be developed to obtain their permission to use the trail. (not an easement or any thing as permanent at this time.) Trail maintenance would be done like the Adopt a Highway program, where a group adopts a trail and maintains it twice a year and a sign is posted with the organization's name. Heavy maintenance will be handled by the Commission.

Meeting Minutes of March 9, 2000

Present:
Diane Fitzpatrick, Chair; Hub Seward, Vice Chair
Pierce Rigrod, Robert Walsh, Rodney Dellafelice, Chris Guida, full members
Chris Costantino, alternate member
Excused:
Richard Medlyn, Judy Gross, Kyle Flanery

MINUTES:
Upon a motion by Chris C. and seconded by Rodney the minutes of the February 10, 2000 meeting were unanimously accepted as presented.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

1. POLICY & PROCEDURE, LAND ACQUISITION & MANAGEMENT
   Rod made a motion and Pierce seconded, to add the words "or property rights" after property in the Acquisition Funding section., and to accept the Land Acquisition & Management section as amended. The vote was unanimous to accept. Rod saw Yankee doodle.
   The next section of the P&P manual will deal with water issues, mainly Dredge & Fill applications. Members suggested that evaluation criteria and who notifies Army Corp. be included in this section.
   
   
2. EASEMENT UPDATE - RODNEY DELLAFELICE
   Rodney gave an update on the locating of boundary markers and flagging of the Johnson Easement property by Bob Walsh, Diane Fitzpatrick and himself done on Saturday, March 4th. (M 47-15) He mentioned that if desired, more permanent markers could be placed professionally for approximately $1000 (1 day's work @ $500 per half day). After discussion the commission members agreed that the group should complete the marking and that the property could be professionally surveyed if and when the need arises. The easement plan, prepared by Meridian Land Services, should be enough and will be filed in the Hillsborough County Registry with the deed. Rod will talk to the Nichols-Smith Land Trust stating the opinion of the Commission regarding the boundary markings. A suggestion was made that signs could be nailed to trees saying something like "Milford Conservation Easement".
   
   
3. HITCHINER TOWN FOREST - improvements, parking, pavilion, additional mowing.
   Dave Parker, of the Souhegan Boy's and Girl's Club, is expected to look at the forest this weekend and inform the Commission of what area he would like to use. This information will be e-mailed to the members prior to the site walk. A site walk has been scheduled for Saturday. March 25, at 8:30 AM, to meet at Hitchiner Town Forest. Items for consideration are the access road, parking, pavilion size and location, fire pit, archery location, extent and frequency of mowing, poison ivy control, and water supply. Chris C. has drafted a Camping Permit form, to allow groups and individuals to camp on the land and to inform them of regulations. Discussion followed, primarily concerning what to do about allowing and regulating campfires. It was decided that the form would be only a "Camping Permit" and not a Fire permit, and that it would inform the reader that he/she must obtain a Fire Permit from the Fire Department. It was also suggested that a fire pit be built near the pavilion to allow groups using the facility to have a safe campfire, and that a sign stating that a fire permit is required be posted. Chris C. will talk further with the fire department regarding camp fires. The availability of water for campers and fire suppression was also discussed. It was decided that Diane will talk to Dave Parker about what he would require, and that Chris C. will ask the Fire Dept. what they would require near campfires (water, sand, etc.). Bob Walsh suggested that we consider a dug well with a hand pump, (no winter maintenance). How to designate camping sites also needs to be decided and written into the permit form.
   Liability and insurance questions were also raised. There is a regulation in the Members Information Manual stating that children under 18 should be accompanied by a responsible adult. It was decided to leave that regulation in. If a pavilion is being built and people are being attracted to the forest, the Commission should learn about liability and insurance issues. Chris C. will talk to Cy Thibault (President of Souhegan Boy's and Girl's Club) about insurance recommendations, and the office will send a memo to the Selectmen asking their opinion about what should be done regarding liability and insurance.
   
   
4. TRAIL COMMITTEE UPDATE - Bob Walsh Adopt-A-Trail Program.
   Bob has drafted an "Adopt- A Trail" Agreement that will allow groups to maintain trails in conjunction with the Commission. The agreement would be signed by a group committing themselves to maintain a trail or section of trail for a period of at least two years. The group would promise to inspect the trail twice a year for the purpose of keeping it clear of debris and dead fall. The groups would report to the Commission. The Conservation Commission would be available for technical assistance. Any changes to the trail location or construction would need to be approved by the Commission.
   
   The plan is to post signs saying "maintained by --- " in the hope that this will motivate groups to maintain the trails well. Bob's next steps will be to advertise in the Cabinet and to contact people that have expressed interest.

NEW BUSINESS:

1. ORIENTEERING IN THE TOWN FORESTS - Bob Walsh
   May 6 is the first National Orienteering Day, and Bob would like to host an orienteering meet in Milford starting at Hitchiner Forest. It would last 8 hours, 10AM to 6PM, and cover close to 30 miles, throughout Souhegan Valley. The members felt that the meet was a good idea and that overflow parking could take place in the north-east field.
   
   
2. TOWN STORM WATER REGULATIONS - New Committee
   The Town Master Plan requested that Stormwater regulations be reviewed and has asked the Conservation Commission to come up with suggested revisions. A new committee has been formed, composed of Steve Sareault (vice-chair of the Planning Board), Pierce Rigrod, Chris Guida and Diane Fitzpatrick. Some members of this committee will attend the Stormwater Management Workshop 2000 on April 19 & 20.. The committee will have its first meeting on March 23. A file will be kept in the office and a draft of ultimate goals will be brought to the next regular meeting.
   
   
3. LAND COVER CLASSIFICATION PROJECT
   NH Cooperative Extension is partnering with NH Space Grant to assist in the statewide landcover classification project. This project, under the direction of UNH's Complex Systems Research Center, will be mapping landcover using satellite imagery. Cooperative Extension will be training volunteers to work with natural resources professionals in providing field data to assist with interpretation and classification of the satellite imagery.
   Volunteers will receive training to work with natural resources professionals to perform the following tasks:
   • navigate using a Global Positioning System
   • use a prism to measure basal area
   • record tree species
   • measure tree diameter at breast height
   
   Eric Swope is the professional hired to do the work in the Monadnock area. Anyone who is interested in assisting Eric please call him to set a date to go into the field. Eric's phone number will be Emailed to all members.
   
   
4. RESIGNATION - Kyle Flanery
   Kyle has resigned the Conservation Commission, because of a job change and relocation to Washington, DC. A motion was made by Hub and seconded by Chris C. to accept his resignation. Vote was unanimous.
   
   
5. WETLANDS INVENTORY
   Seniors at UNH have in the past done wetlands inventories for us. Two large sections were done using the NH Method. The office will send a request to the university to ask them to do the project in the Fall. Chris C. volunteered to be the contact person and will help by coordinating with the students as to when and where this year's project will be done, contacting landowners, and being available to answer student questions.
   
   
6. EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
   The following information items were presented for the members to review. More information is available in the office for anyone interested.
   • Protecting Local Water Supplies, DES & Pennichuck, April 19, 8:30 - noon, Franklin Pierce College, Nashua
   • Local storm water issues, DES & Pennichuck, April 20, 8:30 - noon, Franklin Pierce College, Nashua
   • Natural Resources Color Infrared Photo Awareness Workshop, April 19, 1 - 4 pm, Fox State Forest, Hillsborough, NH
   • NHACC, Nashua area meeting, April 12, 7 - 9 PM , Nashua Regional Planning Commission
   • Protecting Townwide Open Space Through Conservation Design, (Randall Arendt) Nashua River Watershed Assoc. - May 25, 4:30 - 9 pm, Groton, MA
   • Souhegan Watershed Assoc. April 6 7 - 9:30 PM, annual meeting, a presentation will be made by the archaeologist from the Sargent Museum about the archeology of Milford and Monson Center.

There being no further business to come before this meeting, the meeting was adjourned at 8:56 PM.

The next regular meeting of the Conservation Commission is scheduled for Thursday, April 13, 2000 at 7 PM, in the Board of Selectmen's Meeting Room in the Town Hall.

The Storm Water Regulation Committee will meet on Thursday, March 23 in the DPW Meeting Room.

A site walk is scheduled for Saturday, March 30 at 8:30 AM at Hitchiner Town Forest regarding the use of the forest by Souhegan Boys and Girls Club for summer camp.

Meeting Minutes of April 13, 2000

Present:
Diane Fitzpatrick, Chair., Hub Seward, Vice-Chair.
Robert Walsh, Chris Costantino, Judy Gross, Pierce Rigrod, Rodney Dellafelice,
Chris Guida, members.
Rita Carroll, Conservation Coordinator
Excused: Dick Medlyn
Others Attending: Bart Throop, potential new member.

1. POLICY & PROCEDURE MANUAL:
   1. Water Preservation: Judy explained that the committee is now working on the water protection chapter, which is probably the most relevant to the Commission. The subject of water protection makes up half of the member's information handbook. What she would like to do is keep the P&P manual a concise explanation of what the Commission does, and refer to pertinent forms and documents included in the member's information handbook via references or appendices. Right now this chapter in the P&P manual includes; an overview of the value of wetlands, buffer guidelines, Dredge & Fill application process, and what the Commission does about wetlands violations. Members were asked what topics they believed were most relevant and if they felt that anything else should be included. Aquifer district protection was brought up and it was stated that the appendix would include this along with the wetlands protection ordinance. A guideline for stormwater was suggested and may be included after the Town Stormwater Regulations Committee puts together a recommendation to the Planning Board. If the Stormwater ordinance includes the Commission, this guideline should be put in the manual.
      
      
   2. Land Acquisition and Management: The Selectmen asked that some minor changes be made to this chapter before their vote to accept:
   1. Under Land Acquisition - Acquisition Process - Number 1 add "at a regularly scheduled meeting" after "There will be a vote of the members present"
   2. Under Land Acquisition - Acquisition Process - Eliminate number 12.
   3. Under Land Management - Public Use add "use of" to alcoholic beverages.
   4. Under Land Management - Public Use add "of man made or natural materials" to "dumping".
   
   
   Judy made a motion to accept these changes suggested by the Board of Selectmen. Chris C. seconded and the vote was unanimous in favor.
   
   
2. POLICY & PROCEDURE - REVIEW OF CAMPING PERMIT: Chris Costantino distributed copies of the camping permit she has revised. Members made suggestions for changes as follows: Pierce suggested that directions to the forest and surrounding roads be added to the map. The map should also include designated camping areas and fire pits, which are planned for the future. It was suggested that the existing trail map, that has directions from the center of town, be added as an attachment. "No alcoholic beverages" should be added to the use guidelines on the first page. A discussion was held about the paragraph above applicant's signature that deals with waiving rights and Certificate of Insurance. Hub suggested that the paragraph be given to the town lawyer (Wm. Drescher) to review, and it was suggested that the Selectmen be asked for some input as to what the policy with usage of town land should be. There now exists a policy for use of the Town Hall, but nothing concerning use of town land. Bob suggested that other camping areas, such as Pawtuckaway be asked about what they do. Chris removed the last sentence, which asks for a Certificate of Insurance and the second sentence that states that the signer agrees to hold the Town of Milford harmless…… The paragraph will say: "I assume all risks and hazards incidental to using this property. I agree to abide by the rules and guidelines as outlined above." The intent of the document is to know that someone is camping on the property. Chris will also add under name, address and phone number a line asking for the number of persons in the group. Rod suggested that as a courtesy the neighbors be informed if a large event is about to take place. At this time the permit only applies to Hitchiner, in that no other group has asked for use of another area, and there is no parking elsewhere.
   
   Hub brought up, as possible long range plan, that there is undevelopable hillside land that may be available from Great Brook Condos, for public access to the forest. This land could be included in property that the Trails Committee would look at in the future.
   
   
3. HITCHINER SITE WALK REPORT: The minutes of the March 25, 2000 site walk at Hitchiner Town Forest were presented to the group and are as follows:
   
   "MILFORD CONSERVATION COMMISSION
   Minutes of Site Walk of Mar. 25, 2000
   Hitchiner Town Forest
   
   Present:
   Diane Fitzpatrick, Rodney Dellafelice, Bob Walsh, Chris Costantino, Judy Gross,
   Bart Throop (potential MCC member, former park manager, current landscape architect)
   
   
   The group visited the site to discuss Boys & Girls Club proposal. There are several old foundations on the property, along with stone walls, old roads, old farm equipment, three large fields, and lots of trails through the woods. The group looked at the possibility of cleaning up the foundation areas and creating educational program (interpretive signs) with emphasis on the actual history of the farm that was situated there.
   
   Other points of discussion:
   
   
   Parking--need to consider current and future needs--what size vehicles will we need to accommodate? We'd like to have minimum impact parking with some kind of plan for occasional overflow. Several possibilities for parking expansion were discussed. It was decided not to have parking right next to pavilion. Access road--okay for now, with maybe a little help from DPW to fill in major ruts. Upgrades can be done at the same time as parking area.
   
   Pavilion--the group sketched out a 20x40 foot area to get a sense of its proposed size, and then discussed a number of sites, perhaps on the edge of one of the fields, near the stone wall, maybe near one of the to-be-restored foundations.
   
   Archery location--Bart suggested considering building up an earthen area to locate the target, so the kids would be shooting into the side of a hill, etc. rather than into an open target area.
   
   Water supply--dug well with hand pump, located near pavilion? There is still much to be discussed. The group wants to look at the site map which shows what and where the buildings were situated on the parcel. The group thought it also might be helpful to establish a clear master plan (mission) for the area, perhaps to preserve historical integrity, and use that to guide the project. This would allow the Commission to control current and future development and maintain some sense of integrity for the use of the land.
   
   Next steps: Copies of the site plan are available in the MCC office for members to use/ view prior to discussion at the upcoming meeting."
   
   The major points of discussion were: existence of old foundations, educational programs (interpretive signs), parking, pavilion, archery location, and water supply. Bob pointed out that room should be allowed to expand parking, but the expansion should not be done now. Judy stated that the access road will need upgrading at some point in the future. Construction of a pavilion was discussed in terms of location, size, and funding. The members attending the site walk felt that the location of the pavilion would be best in the second field, on the right going up from Mullen Rd. in the northwest corner. There it would be slightly elevated and close to, but not right next to parking. Parking could be expanded without the pavilion being in the way. The first field on the right of Mullen Rd. would be best used for gardens. The pavilion would be about 20' x 40'. Some members felt that larger would be more appropriate to accommodate more than one group. Bart suggested matching the size of the foundation to that of the old house, in that the history of the house, barn, and farm that existed there may be the theme of the work to be done with the land. Bart presented the group with a sketch of what the members at the site walk had suggested for layout. The sketch shows an interpretive trail, gardens and an office in the first field on the right, as you are walking up Mullen Rd. In the second field on the right there is parking, and activity field, and the pavilion. In the field on the left is shown an archery site, group camping, an interpretive trail and a well. In the area straight ahead, (if you kept walking up Mullen Rd. beyond the end), there is shown an endurance course and a ropes course. A copy of the sketch is filed in the office in the Hitchiner Town Forests - Souhegan B&G Club file. Bart will work along with Chris C. and Hub in preparing a Master Plan for the forest, which will tie in education about the original farm. The importance of having a plan for the forest was discussed. Funding for the construction of the pavilion was also discussed. It is stated in the Warrant Article establishing the Forest Fund, that money from the Fund cannot be used for building structures. The intent of this ordinance must be understood, and money may need to be sought elsewhere.
   
   The three things that must be done next are:
   
   1. A master plan must be drawn up, including what is wanted, why, and what is seen as the future of this property - what this farm was in 1745, community gardens, interpretive trail. (Bart, Chris C., Hub, with e-mail contact to others for input.)
   2. Seek funding - town ordinance, other sources. (Diane)
   3. Decide on pavilion size and materials based on cost vs. quality. (Chris G. will research materials, designs, etc.)
   
   
4. EASEMENT UPDATE - Johnson Easement. Rod will talk to the town lawyer about the fact that Celia came back with a change. She wants to remove a statement that says "The portion of Map 47, Lot 27 shall not be subdivided or otherwise divided in ownership." He wants Drescher's opinion on this and on how well the boundaries should be marked. Rod would also like Nichols-Smith Land Trust to walk the boundaries, and will let Chris C. know when that will happen so she can join them. Tovar would like to have the easement signed by the end of the month, but would transfer property over to Celia before there is an easement plan. Rod's goal is to get some final wording from Tovar, have Celia see it, and have Nichols Smith to agree to be the back-up. He will also get a legal opinion about how the process is going.
   
   
5. TOWN STORMWATER REGULATIONS COMMITTEE. Pierce, Chris Guida, Diane, Bill Parker and a representative from the Planning Board have formed a committee that will look at stormwater regulations and make recommendations to the Planning Board. Pierce defined this as a kind of revamping of the Aquifer Ordinance. The goal is to manage stormwater and groundwater, and come up with something that is palpable to the Planning Board and the town, and that is not a "paper tiger." The watershed approach could be the focus. The first meeting will cover geography - define what to protect and where it is.

MEETING MINUTES: The members were asked whether they would like to receive their minutes via e-mail or US mail. The minutes will be sent as follows:

e-mail -
Chris C,	Judy,	Pierce,	Rod,	Bart
US mail -
Bob W.,	Hub,	Dick,	Chris G.




2. MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS - The selectmen have approved the renewal of the memberships of Chris Costantino and Bob Walsh. Chris and Bob were reminded to see the Town Clerk to be sworn in for another 3-year term.
   
   
3. BROX PROPERTY the town has voted to purchase the Brox property, which is approximately 270 acres. Before the end of the year, the Commission should present the Planning board with a concept of how they would like to see open space maintained, wetlands protected, and a greenway connection created within the Brox property. The Commission is interested in creating trails connecting Beaver Brook's Burns-Holland Farm property to Tucker Brook Town Forest through the Brox Property. It was decided that on Saturday, April 22 (Earth Day), the group would conduct a site walk there. Members attending will meet at Beaver Brook, at the Burns Road parking lot at 8:00 AM.
   
   
4. ELECTION OF OFFICERS: Chris Costantino made a motion to nominate and elect Diane Fitzpatrick for a renewal of her position as Chairperson of the Conservation Commission. Bob Walsh seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous in favor. Rodney made a motion to nominate and elect Hub for a renewal of his position as Vice-Chairman of the Conservation Commission. Chris C. seconded and the vote was unanimous in favor.

Meeting Minutes of May 11, 2000

Present:
Diane Fitzpatrick, Chairperson, Hub Seward, Vice Chairman
Bob Walsh, Rodney Dellafelice, Richard Medlyn, Chris Guida, Pierce Rigrod full members
Chris Costantino, Judy Gross, Alternate Members

Others Attending:
Bart Throop, Potential New Member
Brooks Closson, Appointment

1. Project is 2nd wetland impact to access property
2. Existing paved drive appears to have been placed in the least impacting location
3. The house sits off center, closer to the southern property line.
4. Intermittent stream originates on west side of McGettigan Rd, crosses thru culvert and empties into south west corner of property
5. Project directly across road may be diverting some rain event volume from stream
6. Wetland delineation is from original subdivision plans dated 10/24/84
7. In area of proposed drive, grade drops steeply from road, levels out in wetland, rises steeply, approx. 4+ feet, to front yard
8. Southern property line has not been precisely located, property owner feels it is close to existing drive, a stone bound was located well south of existing drive

1. Project not needed for access to property
2. Not the least impacting alternative, use of present driveway is least impacting
3. We wonder if the fill estimate is too conservative, insufficient detail on plan for us to determine

Meeting Minutes of June 8, 2000

Present:
Diane Fitzpatrick, Chairperson, Hub Seward, Vice Chairman,
Bob Walsh, Rodney Dellafelice, Richard Medlyn, Pierce Rigrod, Full Members,
Chris Costantino, Alternate Member


Excused:
Judy Gross, Chris Guida.


Others Attending:
Bart Throop, Potential New Member,
Axel Kurtz, Boy Scout and his father, Bob Kurtz,
April Hill, Amy Dutrisae, Gregg Hunt, Sean Greenlaw, Mr. Winiki - Milford High School.

1. AXEL KURTZ, EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT REQUEST. Axel presented the group with a request to build and erect bat houses at Tucker Brook Town Forest. Approximately 10 bat houses will be constructed of wood and mounted on trees with hangars about 12 - 13 ft. above ground level. He will use information obtained from UNH Coop. Extension in the design and location of the houses. The houses will be located near the waterfall portion of the brook. He will report back to the Commission when the project is completed. Chris Costantino made a motion to give permission to Axel to put the bat houses up. Rod seconded and the vote was unanimous in favor.
   
   
2. BROOKS CLOSSON - M40/1. The group was shown a modified plan and application that was submitted by Brooks Closson to the Commission and to the Wetlands Bureau. On May 18, all the members of the commission were poled by telephone, to authorize the Chairperson to sign and recommend approval of the modified D&F (File #2000-00733). The vote was unanimous in favor and the application was signed on May 19. The Wetlands Bureau has already received and approved this application. It was agreed by all that Mr. Closson's original plan would not have been approved by the Wetlands Bureau, not only because of the size of the impact, but also because of one of the conditions listed on an approved permit. It is stated on each D&F approval letter, that "there shall be no further alterations of wetlands for lot development, driveways, culverts, or for septic setback." Mr. Closson's existing driveway on the right side of the house was a wetland impact. Therefore Mr. Closson would have to file a standard D&F to add the second driveway.
   
   
3. POLICY & PROCEDURE - WATER PROTECTION CHAPTER. A question was raised as to whether or not the Wetlands Bureau has any restrictions on how old a wetland delineation used for a D&F application form, can be. According to the Bureau there are no guidelines; however if any property looks changed, or if the delineation looks inaccurate, the Commission should request that another be done. Rod brought up the fact that the wetlands, buffer, and project areas should be flagged. Flagging is mentioned in the chapter. Each applicant will be notified by letter that the project area and the area of the wetland and buffer impact on a property must be flagged prior to a site walk. At the next monthly meeting time will be spent on discussing and perhaps approving this chapter of the Policy & Procedure Manual. If anyone needs a copy, Rita will mail or e-mail one to them.
   
   
4. PUBLIC HEARING - JOHNSON EASEMENT
   The Public Hearing for the purpose of spending money from Land Fund for survey work and bound setting for the Johnson Conservation Easement on a portion of Map 47, Lot 15, Armory Rd. was called to order at 7:30 PM.
   
   Present:
   Chris Costantino, Bob Walsh, Bart Throop, Dick Medlyn, Rodney Dellafelice, Diane Fitzpatrick, Emily Walsh.
   
   It has been recommended by Town Attorney Drescher that the inner boundary of this easement be surveyed and that key point markers be placed and referenced on the plan and easement deed. There was no public comment on the expenditure.
   
   Dick made a motion to spend an amount from the Land Fund, not to exceed $1,000.00 to pay for survey and bound setting for a conservation easement on a portion of Map 47, Lot 15, Armory Rd. Bob Walsh seconded and the vote was unanimous in favor.
   
   The Public Hearing portion of the meeting was closed at 7:35 pm.
   
   
5. KALEY PARK. At the Commission's meeting with the Board of Selectmen on Wednesday, June 7, Chairman D'Amato asked what the Commission would recommend for the Kaley Park land if the decision was made to move the planned ballfields to the BROX property because of potential access problems at the Nashua Street site. After discussion Dick made a motion that the Conservation Commission does not want the property sold and wants the Commission to have the ability to study future uses and come up with a plan to present to the selectmen for their consideration. Chris C. seconded and the vote was unanimous in favor. The group would like to see the park remain as conservation land and maintain a buffer on the river. Some ideas that were brought up were keeping it as a riverfront nature park, a canoe launch, pavilion, trail (walking access to town). This park would be used by small groups (families, individuals) and Hitchiner would be more geared to larger groups.
   
   The Commission will look at the park to discuss ideas on Saturday, June 10, at 1:00PM. They will meet in the lower parking lot behind the Medical Center. Members should put thoughts together and can e-mail them.
   
   
6. BUDGET - WARRANT ARTICLES. The Commission needs to present to the Board of Selectmen the budget and any warrant articles they would like to see on the March 2001 ballot. This needs to be done by June 12. Diane suggested a warrant article to bring the land fund up to $50,000. Members would like to see an article that would use the Current Use Penalty Tax to cap off the $50,000 each year, instead of having to put a warrant article on the ballot every year to bring the Land Fund up to that amount. The Current Use Penalty tax would be the Conservation Commission's funding for future years.
   
   
7. DADOLY - VOTE TO ACCEPT M53/80. Bob Walsh made a motion to accept "Lot 13 on a Plan entitled "Federal Hill Heights" which is shown as Plan #3529 in the Hillsborough County Registry of Deeds" and is Tax Map 53 Lot 80. Chris C. seconded and the vote was unanimous in favor.
   
   
8. BART THROOP - CONSIDERATION FOR MEMBERSHIP. Chris C. made a motion that the Conservation Commission recommend to the Board of Selectmen that Bart Throop be appointed as a full member to the Conservation Commission. Rod seconded and the vote was unanimous in favor.
   
   
9. DICK MEDLYN - MEMBER STATUS. Dick Medlyn informed the members that he was planning to resign the Commission because of increasing demands of his business. However the members felt that he was a valuable part of the team and encouraged him to remain as an alternate member. He would not need to attend meetings, but would be mailed the minutes and agendas. If he felt that there was anything he wanted to give input on he could attend, call or e-mail. Dick made a motion and Rod seconded that he (Dick) become an alternate member instead of a full member of the Conservation Commission. The vote was unanimous in favor.
   
   
10. CRAIG CASSARINO - M10/65 - ACCESS TO PROPERTY. Mr. Cassarino, of 261 Cummings Road, Lyndeboro, NH, called regarding a landlocked piece of property, M10/L65, that he would like to build a residence on. He would like to build a driveway to access this lot through M10/64 which is part of the Tucker Brook Town Forest. According to the deed on M10/64, this land is to be used for "farming purposes, including the right to cut hay, raise crops, cut firewood, pasture and water animals, and generally to enjoy the natural fruits of the land for the use and benefit of the individuals living in the Savage farm house, and it is agreed that no buildings of any kind be erected " The Commission also feels strongly that cutting a driveway through the town forest would break up an extremely valuable and productive wildlife habitat. Mr. Cassarino will receive a letter from the Commission stating that the restrictions on the deed to the property he wants to go through are such that he would be unable to construct a driveway.
    
    
11. HITCHINER TOWN FOREST - PAVILION. Bart Throop has volunteered to oversee and coordinate the building of the pavilion. He will collect information from the members who are looking into various aspects of the project.. Chris Guida and Pierce are looking at plans and they have lists of post and beam schools who may need a project to build, if the materials are supplied. Bart hopes to come back with a simple project plan - what is needed, who to contact. Chris Costantino will call post & beam schools, to see if they need a place to build. She will also call Brian Carter, teacher in the building trades department of the Milford High School. It was decided that the Commission would first work on getting a pavilion built and decide and work on a fire place or fire pit at a later time. The size of the pavilion has not yet been decided.
    
    
12. OSGOOD POND DREDGING - STUDENT PRESENTATION. Two projects were presented to the members, both of which consisted of research on whether or not Osgood Pond should be dredged. Both groups gave a report, which included some history of the pond. They showed posters containing newspaper articles, photos, water analysis results, and results of surveys taken of abutters, students, and town residents. Both groups concluded that the pond should be dredged mainly for recreational purposes. They felt that the impact to wildlife would be minimal, in that birds could fly to another location and muskrats, snakes and raccoons, etc. would not be drastically affected. The vast majority of people surveyed wanted to see the pond dredged for aesthetic and recreational uses. Testing results were stated to be within the normal range, with the exception that Ferrous (iron) was high and the coliform count was high. It was speculated that the count may be lower with more water in pond.. The fact that the pond was man-made to begin with was brought up. One photo showed a pipe next to the spillway of the dam that should be looked at. The commission enjoyed the presentations and appreciated the work done by the students. Dick Medlyn suggested that the students draft a letter and/or a petition to their congressmen asking them to move the project along, in that the approval has been obtained but the funding is not there yet. (In March, 2000 the town voted to raise $25,000 and now has $75,000 to put toward the dredging. The federal government has agreed to pay 75% of the project if the town raises 25%. Total cost = $200,000 - $250,000.) Chris C. suggested that the students keep trying to get in touch with Mr. Karl Chappell, who had wanted to dredge the pond in the past in order to sell the nutrient-rich sludge.

Meeting Minutes of July 13, 2000

Present:
Diane Fitzpatrick, Chairperson, Hub Seward, Vice Chairman,
Rodney Dellafelice, Chris Guida, Pierce Rigrod, Full Members,
Chris Costantino, Judy Gross, Alternate Members.

Excused:
Bob Walsh, Bart Throop, Richard Medlyn.

Others Attending:
Ernie Barrett - Lion's Club.

1. POLICY AND PROCEDURE MANUAL - WATER/WETLANDS PROTECTION CHAPTER
   The members reviewed this chapter and made following suggestions:
   
   • Chris Guida suggested that the chapter be called the Water Resources Protection chapter.
   • Hub drafted the following paragraph to be inserted in the "Means of Protection" section under Water Resources. "Disturbances to the natural systems by building construction, pavement or change of soil / vegetation within Milford is regulated to minimize the impact on both surface water and underground water (aquifers). Each project may be subject to Federal, State and town regulations. The Army Corps of Engineers has jurisdiction over surface water and has delegated certain powers to the NH State Wetland Bureau. In addition there is the NH Shoreland Protection Act which governs land use within 250 feet of the Souhegan River and Osgood Pond. A Milford town ordinance regulates upland buffer areas surrounding surface water and wetlands. Another Milford ordinance regulates the land above aquifers. Each of these has certain requirements that must be followed and in some cases approvals of permits are necessary." Hub suggested that the numbers of the RSA and Town ordinance referred to be included. Copies of these RSA's and ordinances could be added to the appendix.
   • Pierce has some comments. He will e-mail suggestions to Judy who will include them and Hub's suggestions in a new draft which she will send to members to review before the August meeting.
   
   
2. HITCHINER TOWN FOREST PAVILION - After a brief discussion about pavilion size and a review of drawings that Bart had made, it was decided that the pavilion will be put on the September agenda. If in the meantime members can find any information, they should bring it to the September meeting.
   
   
3. RR TRAIL - Property donation from J. Barretto, confirm phone poll to accept. There was a vote of the Commission to authorize the chairman to sign the grantee assent page of the deed accepting the donation. The following members were polled and responded in the affirmative: Rodney Dellafelice, Pierce Rigrod, Bob Walsh, Chris Guida, Chris Costantino and Judy Gross. This land is part of the Railroad Trail that runs from the center of town to Brookline.

1. MEMBERSHIP IN SOUHEGAN WATERSHED ASSOCIATION - The SWA has asked for the Conservation Commission's continued support. Chris Costantino made a motion to support SWA for $100. Pierce seconded and the vote was unanimous in favor.
   
   
2. ADOPT-A-TRAIL SIGNS - The groups that have adopted some of the trails in town have all begun the process of maintaining them, and it is time for the commission to provide signs indicating that these groups are maintaining the trails. Approximately 10 signs with "Adopt-A-Trail" information are needed, along with 10 additional signs each one containing the name of the person or group adopting the trail. The office is in the process of getting some estimates of costs, depending on sizes and materials decided upon by the Trails Committee. Pierce made a motion to make available up to $500 to spend on signs for the Adopt-A-Trail program. Chris Costantino seconded. The motion was amended by Hub to state that if the sign is located in a town forest, the Town Forest Fund will be used. If the sign is located elsewhere, the Accumulative Fund will be used. Chris Guida seconded and the vote was unanimous in favor to adopt the motion as amended.
   
   
3. INTERDEPARTMENTAL PLAN REVIEW - The Conservation Commission will receive a copy of plans going before the Planning Board and will therefore have an opportunity to make comments before the Planning Board hearing. The process will be such that the office will send a synopsis of the plan to members containing wetlands or open space issues, and any other pertinent information. The plans will be kept in the office if the members want to look at them, and comments will be needed prior to the next PB hearing. Members will receive large town maps to refer to when reviewing the synopses. In the office is a black binder that contains Town ordinances - Zoning, Site Plan, Subdivision. Three sets of plans were presented to the members for review:
   1. Sunny Prairie Farm - Split 3 approved lots into half to make 6. Will probably have a D&F application. The commission members expressed concern over the steepness of the area.
   2. Shaw's Expansion - probably will not deal with wetlands.
   3. Carnival Hill Recreation Complex - access and most of project is in Wilton. Some contouring has been done. Members expressed interest in seeing the property and will be notified if and when the Planning Board visits the property.
   
   
4. SPNHF LAND STEWARD TRAINING PROGRAM - This is a 70-hour program of background skills training. Classes include forest ecology, trail construction, forest inventory & management, wildlife habitat improvement, boundaries and maps, wildlife ecology. There are 11 fall sessions costing $200 and 6 spring session costing $100. Diane will attend the information session on Tuesday July 26. Any members interested in attending should let her know. There is currently money in the education fund that can be used for this program.
   
   
5. LIONS' CLUB - Ernie Barrett of the Lion's Club stopped by the meeting and stated that he wants to bring to his committee that built the skate park a recommendation to have trees planted around that park. The committee would use some of the money that they have left over and would like help from the Commission regarding suppliers and other advice. The members will be happy to give any information when Ernie needs it.

1. Johnson Easement - Rod looked in the possibility of having Celia sign the easement deed before the inner boundary is marked. However Celia was not in favor of doing that, and this "reversing the order" may present difficulties administratively. The members of the commission agreed to go ahead with the expense of the boundary marking before having the deed signed. Rod will contact Meridian and have them do the inner boundary marking. Drescher will then write the description to be included in the deed, and Celia can sign the deed and have it notarized.

Meeting Minutes of August 10, 2000

Present:
Diane Fitzpatrick, Chairperson,
Bob Walsh, Chris Guida, Rodney Dellafelice, Bart Throop, Full Members,
Chris Costantino, Alternate Member,
Rita Carroll, Cons. Assistant.

Excused:
Hub Seward, Pierce Rigrod, Richard Medlyn.

Others Attending:
Walter Murray, Chairman Planning Board.

1. POLICY & PROCEDURE MANUAL - WATER RESOURCE PROTECTION CHAPTER - Chris Guida made a motion to accept this chapter as drafted 5/3/00 and to include the following paragraph drafted by Hub which will be inserted in the "Means of Protection" section under Water Resources: "Disturbances to the natural systems by building construction, pavement or change of soil / vegetation within Milford is regulated to minimize the impact on both surface water and underground water (aquifers). Each project may be subject to Federal, State and town regulations. The Army Corps of Engineers has jurisdiction over surface water and has delegated certain powers to the NH State Wetland Bureau. In addition there is the NH Shoreland Protection Act which governs land use within 250 feet of the Souhegan River and Osgood Pond. A Milford town ordinance regulates upland buffer areas surrounding surface water and wetlands. Another Milford ordinance regulates the land above aquifers. Each of these has certain requirements that must be followed and in some cases approvals and permits are necessary." Bob Walsh seconded the motion made by Chris, and the vote was unanimous in favor.
   
   
2. HITCHINER PAVILION - It was decided that discussion of the project of building a pavilion at Hitchiner Town Forest will be tabled until September's meeting to allow members to obtain some plans for that pavilion. Some sources of plans were discussed, including timber frame institutes, national parks, and local builders. The members agreed that the poison ivy in the fields must be cleared up before building a pavilion. Bart recommended, as did the County Conservationist, that "Round-Up", be used on north-west field (the second one on the right when driving in, the favored location of the pavilion), on the western half of the southern field (the one on the left) and on the stone wall bordering the parking lot where the ivy originates. Bart explained some of the characteristics of Round-Up to the group. It works by inhibiting the photosynthesis process, therefore "starving" the plant, and must be applied to green and growing parts of the plants. It can be applied in the Fall if growth is occurring, and is most effective at this time because in the Fall plants are delivering nutrients to their roots. It can also be applied in the Spring when there is a large amount of growth taking place. He recommended that the fields be mowed first to expose the target plant and time be allowed for new growth to generate. Round-Up is a harmless material and should present no difficulty in its use. It is neutralized by the minerals in soil and is biodegradable in water within 24 hrs. It will not harm animals. The work will be done by a licensed professional. Bart will be receiving a proposal from Tru-Green and Chris C. will call Dan Tremblay of Broad Oaks to obtain a quote from him.
   
   
3. JOHNSON EASEMENT - Rod's work on the Johnson Easement is moving along. Meridian is scheduled to mark the bounds on August 29. After this work the easement document will be up-dated with the references to these markers. Rod expects distribution of final documents and signatures to be completed by September 15.

1. RR TRAIL EASEMENT - There is a section of the abandoned RR that no longer exists due to the development of M42/73 as Leisure Acres Mobile Home Park. The preferred route to connect the town owned sections is through M47/15. The owner of this property has offered to sell the town a trail easement through their land. The proposed trail easement is planned as 50 feet wide by 1278 feet running along the stone wall boundary with Leisure Acres plus another section 300 feet square down the slope to connect with the RR bed and continue on to Melendy Road. The Commission members discussed the need for this easement to make the trail a reality. The members agreed that $10,000 would be a fair and reasonable amount to pay for the easement. The Commission will hold a public hearing to consider using Conservation Land Fund money to purchase this easement. The public hearing is scheduled for 7 PM on Thursday August 17th in the Lower Meeting Room.
   
   
2. The members present received TOWN MAPS that they can refer to when receiving synopses of plans sent to the Planning Board that have wetlands, open space, or other issues of concern to the Conservation Commission. These maps are in the office for members who have not received them and can be picked up when convenient.
   
   
3. Bart Throop announced that he is moving to Reno, Nevada and will therefore need to resign his position as member of the Conservation Commission. The members were sorry to hear about him leaving, but happy for him to be moving closer to "home". It was acknowledged that in the short time he has been here, Bart has made significant contributions and the Commission appreciates all he has done.
   
   
4. Pierce Rigrod has volunteered to be a member of the Planning Board. It is recommended that there be a person who is a member of both the Planning Board and the Conservation Commission. It was agreed that the office will send a letter to the Planning Board and the Board of Selectmen to request that Pierce be appointed member of the Planning Board.

Minutes of the Public Hearing of August 17, 2000

Present:
Diane Fitzpatrick, Hub Seward, Bob Walsh, Rodney Dellafelice, Chris Guida,
Chris Costantino, Judy Gross.

Meeting Minutes of September 14, 2000

Present:
Diane Fitzpatrick, Chairperson, Hub Seward, Vice Chairman
Rodney Dellafelice, Full Member
Chris Costantino, Alternate Member
Rita Carroll, Cons Assistant

Excused:
Bob Walsh Richard Medlyn, Chris Guida, Pierce Rigrod, Judy Gross

Others Attending:
Tom Lorden
Dennis McKenney -New England Forestry Consultants
Ken Clinton - Meridian Land Services
Steve Trombley
Matt Peterson - Keach-Nordstrom Associates, Inc

1. 7:30 D&F - Tom Lorden, Great Brook crossing in location of old road & historic crossing, M42/1, single lane pre-fab bridge. Mr. McKenney of New England Forestry Consultants and Mr. Lorden, owner of M42/1, presented the members with a standard Dredge and Fill application proposing reconstruction of a bridge crossing Great Brook, upstream from Osgood Pond, in the same location where one had been in the early 1900's. The wetland impact will be 2646 sq. ft., and is at the narrowest point crossing the brook. The bridge will allow Mr. Lorden access to his 25 acre wooded property. The proposal is to remove the old abutments, reconstruct new headers and install a single lane, modular bridge 35 feet long and 13 feet wide. Gravel will be deposited on a causeway after the vegetation has been removed, and there will be a stone ford area on the south end in case there is any need for overflow for high water. The modular bridge will have a steel frame and a pressure treated wood deck. The work can be done from the existing roadbed off Mason Rd. Diane has walked the site and has taken photos. In response to Chris's question about the preservatives used in pressure treated wood leaching to the water below, Mr. Lorden stated that he had never heard of any problems in the past and this same wood is used for decks and docks, etc. Rodney suggested using a copper treated wood, called ACQ, which is safer for the environment. Mr. Lorden stated that they do not anticipate too much sediment flowing downstream to Osgood Pond because the excavation is only in the area of the two abutments. The group liked the idea of a bridge crossing the water as opposed to a culvert and will recommend approval of this D&F presented tonight.
   
   
2. 8:00 -Sunny Prairie Farm - modifications of common drive & site specific soil survey. In response to concerns of the commission expressed in the Aug.10 meeting, namely a common driveway cut into a steep slope, Ken Clinton presented a revised subdivision plan to the members. In the original plan drainage of the steep slope was sheet flow across the common driveway. According to the current plan the water will now be collected in a riprapped swale and will flow through a culvert. This plan addresses the probable erosion problem although the buffer impact area is increased by 4000 sq. ft. Mr. Clinton also reported that the site specific soil survey had been done and that the results confirm those of the test pits showing that there are areas suitable for building. Plans will not need to be changed. The members felt that their concerns have been addressed and will write a memo to the Planning Board stating this and will recommend to the Wetlands bureau approval of the revised plan.
   
   
3. 8:15 D&F M53/34 & 35 - Federal Hill, Foster, Ponemah Hill Rds. 41 lot subdivision. Matt Peterson of Keach-Nordstrom Associates, Inc. presented the members with maps of this subdivision. The proposed project will include a road network for 41 residential house lots. Approx 6575 linear feet of road is to be constructed and 2400 linear feet of road to be repaired. The plans show 6 impacts, which include upgrading of existing culverts, some new crossings, and upgrading of drainage culverts not in but possibly affected by the development. The impacts are now 5825 sq ft., down from a original 8000 sq. ft. Monson rock is located in this property and will be kept on a small piece of town owned land. The property is 125 acres total and includes 15 acres of wetland and 39.1 acres of open space. The wetlands, open space, and steep areas = about 54 acres. The lot sizes are 1.2 - 1.5 acres and there are no common drives and no driveways crossing wetlands. The D&F has not yet been filed. It will be presented to the Planning Board on 9/18. When asked if the commission would recommend approval of this D&F , the group responded in the affirmative. A suggestion was made that the depths of the easternmost Foster Rd. lots be shortened to include at least the entire Public Service right-of-way in the open space. Members brought up trail committee's interest in creating a trail from Monson to the top of Federal Hill, through this development and it does look feasible.

1. LOT CONSOLIDATION - The town tax maps are being redone and the tax assessor has asked the Commission to consolidate the many lots making up the Dadoly Conservation Land . Members were asked if they were interested in consolidation of this and any other properties, such as Mayflower Town Forest or Tucker Brook Town Forest. The advantage of consolidation is clarity. The disadvantage is that if a portion of the land were to be sold in the future, subdivision would need to be done. After a brief discussion it was decided that Rita would process the forms for Dadoly and Mayflower at this time. Tucker Brook could possibly be done in the future.
   
   
2. INTERDEPARTMENTAL PLAN REVIEW - The members were shown preliminary conceptual plans given to Diane by Bill Parker and were asked for their comments on or before the PB meeting on 9/19.

• CHRISTMAS TREE FARM ESTATES - The proposed road is 2800 ft. long and loops through a wetland to connect the end of Christmas Tree Lane to the end of Richardson Rd.. Mr. Asselin is seeking a variance from the limit on length of dead-end roads. If he can build a 2800 ft. long dead-end road, he can avoid impacting a significant amount of wetlands by not connecting one end of his proposed road to Richardson Rd. Some members will view these wetlands at a site walk scheduled for Mon. Sept. 18, and will have comments concerning the wetlands issues for the Planning Board meeting Tues., Sept, 19.
  
  
• HAYWARD ICE CREAM STAND- The commission reviewed preliminary plans for an ice cream shop on Elm St. (M7/10) There was concern that there was a large amount of impervious surface and members questioned if there was a need for that much parking.
  
  
• PONEMAH HILL RD. - north of bypass. The commission is happy with the access easement proposed in order to avoid the wetland.

1. JOHNSON EASEMENT - The bounds of the easement have been set and/or found and the appendix of the deed describing the property has been written. The deed has been mailed to Celia for her signature and Hub will sign the deed on the commission's behalf. The easement is expected to be finalized within the next two weeks.

Meeting Minutes of October 12, 2000

Present:
Diane Fitzpatrick, Chairperson, Hub Seward, Vice Chairman
Bob Walsh, Rodney Dellafelice, Chris Guida, Full Members
Chris Costantino, Alternate Member
Rita Carroll, Cons. Assistant

Excused:
Pierce Rigrod, Judy Gross

Others Attending:
Charles Zahn, owner of M2/28
Harry R. Murray - Certified Wetlands Scientist
Tom Herlihy, Safety and Compliance Manager at Hendrix Wire & Cable

The public meeting of the Milford Conservation Commission was called to order by the Chair, Diane Fitzpatrick at 7:10 PM.

1. Charles Zahn - D&F for road crossing Hartshorn Brook and wetlands to access a proposed new lot of 13 acres. Mr. Zahn owns a 54-acre lot that he would like to subdivide into 2 lots. To access the new proposed 13 acre lot, Mr. Zahn is seeking permits to construct a driveway that would cross Hartshorn Brook and also cross wetlands that are contiguous with Hartshorn Pond. He proposes to install 4, 4 ft. diam. by 20 ft. long culverts to cross the brook. And he proposes to cross about 135 ft. of wetland north of the brook. Notes from the site walk are as follows:
   
   Date: September 30, 2000
   Time: 8 am - 9:30am
   Location: M2/28, off Rt 13 North, just south of Mont Vernon line, access from Rt 13 is driveway to Zahn's Alpine Guest House
   Attendees: Chris Costantino, Diane Fitzpatrick, Bob Walsh, Judy Gross, Charles Zahn (property owner)
   Project - road crossing intermittent stream & Hartshorn Brook & associated wetlands, to access a proposed new lot of 13 acres (original lot is 54 acres)
   Impact: 2 crossings, 300 sq ft & 1800 sq ft
   Observations:
   
   • Wetland delineation appears reasonably accurate
   • 1st crossing, 300 sq ft, is intermittent stream, well defined channel w/uplands on both sides
   • 2nd crossing, 1800 sq ft, is perennial stream, Hartshorn Brook & associated wetlands, approx. 425 feet north, upstream, of Hartshorn Pond
   • wetlands involved in second impact were saturated w/some areas of standing water averaging ankle deep
   • evidence of well used wildlife trails
   • owner admits to being able to access from Jennison Road without impacting Hartshorn Brook & associated wetlands, however he would prefer to access from Rt. 13
   
   Upon discussion of the application at this meeting, the members expressed concern with the wetland on the north end of Hartshorn Pond. The impact to this wetland was of more concern than that of the brook. Bob Walsh stated that the wetland, which is contiguous with Hartshorn Pond, is very productive. The members felt that the plans were not detailed and specific enough regarding the impact during and after construction of the driveway. They also stated that even with more detailed plans, they would probably not recommend that this project be approved, because of the beauty, amount of water, and productivity of this particular wetland. The members would like to see the land accessed through a different area. Mr. Zahn stated that town regulations prohibit him from coming in through his property on Rt. 13.
   
   Bob Walsh made a motion to recommend to the Wetlands Bureau that this D&F application be denied. Chris C. seconded. Chris Guida abstained from voting. All others present voted in favor of the motion.
   
   
2. Hendrix Wire & Cable - D&F application to enclose 400 ft. of an open drainage swale in 2 30" culverts to provide an area of level ground for the construction of a security fence. Mr. Herlihy, of Hendrix Wire & Cable, explained that the company wants to construct a fence surrounding its property for security reasons. There is concern on the company's behalf that children playing on or around railroad cars on the property could be seriously injured. Along the south side of the property the company feels that the only place to construct a fence is exactly where the brook is located. The land south of the brook is too narrow; the fence would be dangerously close to moving trains. To put the fence on the north side, the brook would have to be crossed and part of the fence would be located on railroad property. Mr. Herlihy proposes to close the open portion of the brook with 2, 30 " culverts which would join a headwall at one end, and a culvert at the other, and to fill and landscape the area providing a flat area on which to install a chain link fence. A site walk was held Oct. 7. The notes from this site walk are as follows:
   
   Date: October 7, 2000
   Time: 8 am - 9:00 am
   Applicant: Hendrix Wire & Cable
   Location: M 14/8, Elm Street, between RR and Hendrix building
   
   Attendees: Chris Costantino, Diane Fitzpatrick, Hub Seward, Bob Walsh, Tom Herlihy (Hendrix), Naomi Lamb (Meridian)
   
   Project - enclose 400' of an open drainage swale in 2 30" culverts for security and landscaping purposes
   
   Impact: 3,275 sq ft
   
   Observations:
   
   
   1. Photos in application are not representative of the project area, only show culvert where stream enters project area, there is 400 more feet of heavily vegetated stream bank with a significant year round flow of water about 3 to 4 feet below ground level
   2. Wetlands Bureau's definition of "drainage swale" - "a shallow, vegetated trough where water flows during runoff & which is insufficient to create a channel or to maintain wetlands vegetation."
   3. Length of stream is heavily vegetated with wetland indicators
   4. Surrounding area is highly developed with large industrial buildings and parking lots
   5. Project is in the aquifer protection district
   6. New management in Chicago requesting more security
   7. Much of the length of the stream is impenetrable due to the density of the vegetation, width of the stream, depth of the stream channel
   8. Applicant wants to remove vegetation and fill streambed in order to locate the fence with adequate clearance from passing trains and to create a level area that can be landscaped
   9. Proposed fence is 8 foot chain link
   
   Upon discussion of the application at this meeting Chris C. pointed out that this is a brook which is supporting a very active wetland, with many indicator species. This is a functional perennial stream in a location, which is highly industrialized and has few wetland areas. A suggestion was made that the company try to obtain permission from the railroad to use some of their land for the fence. It was also pointed out that the vegetation in and around the stream is so dense and wide that the area may be impenetrable as is.
   
   Chris C. made a motion to recommend to the Wetlands Bureau that this D&F application be denied. Bob Walsh seconded. Chris Guida abstained from voting. All others present voted in favor of the motion.
   
   
3. Federal Hill/ Foster Rd. - STD D&F - 41 lot subdivision. This plan had been presented at the Sept. 14, 2000 meeting, although the D&F had not yet been filed. Members decided that they would like to look at the property and will schedule a site walk. They will decide on the D&F and they will discuss open space with regards to a possible trail from Federal Hill through the area to Monson Village. This application will be discussed at the next monthly meeting.

1. Hitchiner Town Forest - Poison Ivy Control. Rita received a quote from Tru-Green Chem-Lawn for two applications of Round-Up, one in the late spring and one in the late summer at a cost of $1300.00 per application. The Round-Up would be sprayed on north-west field (the second one on the right when driving in, the favored location of the pavilion), on the western half of the southern field (the one on the left) and on the stone wall bordering the parking lot where the ivy originates. Chris C. made a motion to approve use of $2600.00 from the Forest Fund for poison ivy control. Bob W. seconded and the vote was unanimous in favor. The members will go out to the fields sometime early spring to flag the areas to be sprayed.
   
   
2. Diane read a letter from Ken Cloutier, a chemistry teacher at Milford High School thanking the Commission for sponsoring his attendance at the American Groundwater Institute. He felt that the lectures and activities he experienced has enabled him to bring real world knowledge into his science class, Chemistry in the Community, and that the support of the Conservation Commission has a direct an positive influence on the science experience of Milford students.

1. Hub, Chris, and Diane will meet to discuss potential changes to the zoning ordinances with regards to minimum lot sizes in rural areas. Requirements for contiguous, common, and accessible open space are difficult, if not impossible, to fulfill in areas with small lot sizes. These requirements are best met in areas with larger lots, and a larger minimum lot size ordinance may improve the quality of the open space design.
   
   
2. Annual Association of Conservation Commissions Meeting, Nov. 4, 8:00 - 3:30, Concord. Members were asked if they were planning to attend. Rita will fill out an application before Oct. 25, for any one interested.

1. Le Ann - The members felt that the Open Space design of this plan works very well. The open space is contiguous and accessible to the residents of the neighborhood. There is a connection at the end of a cul-de-sac to Mayflower Forest and a trail could be made connecting Mayflower to Enright land, which connects to Amherst. This plan works well with small lots because there is city water and sewers, hence no need for wells and septic systems.
   
   
2. Christmas Tree - This latest plan does not seem to fulfill the intent of the Open Space Ordinance. The open space is fragmented and not common to all the owners. No Dredge & Fill application has yet been filed.

Meeting Minutes of November 9, 2000

Present:
Diane Fitzpatrick, Chairperson, Hub Seward, Vice Chairman
Bob Walsh, Rodney Dellafelice, Chris Guida, Pierce Rigrod, Full Members
Chris Costantino, Alternate Member

Excused:
Judy Gross

Others Attending:
Bill Davidson - Meridian Land Services
Harvey and April S. Bower, Pat and Tom Bowman - residents of Richardson Rd.

1. D&F - M7/21 - COTE MACHINE SHOP. Bill Davidson presented the members with a plan for which a D&F will be filed. The project involves filling wetlands in order to provide level ground on which to construct an addition to the Cote Machine Shop building. The owner would like to add approximately 40 ft. to each of two sides of the building and provide vehicle access around the building. He proposes to fill to provide 18 ft. in back of the building and 24 ft. on each side, pave the surface and stabilize the slope with rip rap. The impact would be 7,614 sq. ft. of wetland and 19,500 sq. ft. to the buffer area. The project is in a flood plain area, and Mr. Davidson showed where they would cut and remove material in order to provide compensatory storage in an area along Perry Rd. The lot appears to have been impacted when the building was originally constructed. Mr. Davidson was looking for some input from the Commission before filing the D&F application.
   
   The members expressed some concern with the area being paved. Run-off would be directly into the wetland. Gravel, instead of pavement was suggested. The size of the paved area was also discussed. The owner wants enough room for a vehicle to drive around the back of the building, but does not need enough for a truck to back up and unload. Hub suggested paving 12 feet instead of 18 feet around the building. That reduction would cut the impact by 1/3. The need for the project was also discussed. The owner feels unable to maintain the back of the building because of the steep slope close to the building. When asked if a second story instead of an addition would be possible, Mr. Davidson stated that the building is not constructed to allow two stories. He also stated that the owner wants to expand his business and does not want to loose his tenant, and therefore would not want to expand to the other half of the building.
   
   Mr. Davidson left with the suggestions that he try to tighten up his dimensions to reduce the impact. The state wants minimal impact to the wetlands. He should reduce or eliminate the back access drive, reduce the side access, and consider surfacing the filled area with gravel, instead of pavement, to avoid run-off to the wetland.
   
   
2. M4/30 - CHRISTMAS TREE LANE -Bill Davidson spoke on behalf of the owner and engineer for this project. Abutters were also present to give their input. This proposed project is an 18 lot subdivision of the Christmas Tree farm at the end of Christmas Tree Lane and involves construction of a road, starting at the end of Christmas Tree Lane and ending at the end of Richardson Rd. Diane, Chris C., Chris G., Judy, and Hub have visited the site. Three wetland impacts are proposed. Two crossings are small; the wetlands they cross were created by the farming of the Christmas Trees. The members had no issues with these two crossings. The third impact would be construction of the section of road that connects to the end of Richardson Rd. and is of some concern. The wetland is described as being a shallow ledge, forested wetland functioning primarily for drainage. The plan is to install 4 culverts across this wetland with a 10,180 sq. ft. impact. Shifting the locations of the road one way or the other within this narrow area did not decrease the impact. The builder's original proposal was to avoid this crossing, and end his road with a cul-de-sac before the wetland, but that plan does not meet town regulations. It was pointed out that the concern of the Conservation Commission, however is wetlands impact, only, and if the applicant can have access to and reasonable use of his land without this crossing, then the commission would vote against recommending this impact to the Wetlands Bureau. The concerns expressed by the members were mainly for wildlife and drainage. Chris C. observed evidence of wildlife moving through the wetland. Diane pointed out that this wetland drains to a large wetland area, and culverts will channel and change this drainage. Water flow and salt outflow are of concern to the viability of the large wetland area. The least impacting alternative is to end the road before the wetland. Pierce pointed out that the project could be phased in, in that the builder has a future additional access to the property indicated on his plan. Rod pointed out that the builder can still make use of his land.
   
   The abutters present expressed concerns with this project. They talked about the slope of the proposed road and the fact that there is supposed to be no salt deposited on Richardson Rd. They stated that there is in fact salt deposited and that if that water is diverted from the road through the culverts, the salt water will kill the wetland. They also expressed concern for the birds, deer, and coyotes observed in this area, and stated that this area is the only natural piece of wetland on the property. The pond and other wet areas were created by the Christmas Tree Farm activity. There was some discussion regarding the amount of fill that would be required to construct the road to cross the gully. That 10 feet of fill would be needed in the wetland with corresponding side slope impact areas was indicated to Hub in the site walk held, September 18. A letter drafted by the abutters of this property was sent to the state Wetlands Bureau and is filed with the D&F application in the Conservation office. The letter expresses the concerns of the abutters with the impact to this wetland.
   
   Chris C. made a motion to recommend to the Wetlands Bureau that this application not be approved. Hub seconded the motion. Chris Guida abstained from voting and the other members present voted in favor of the motion.
   
   
3. M53/34&35 - FEDERAL HILL, FOSTER RD. - 41 Lot Subdivision.
   This plan had been presented and discussed at the Sept. 14, 2000 meeting. Bob Walsh met with Matt Peterson to walk the open space and look at the trail system from Federal Hill to Monson Village. Bob feels that the open space is dry and that only a small amount of existing trail will have to be relocated to maintain the Federal Hill, Monson Village connection.
   
   Bob made a motion to recommend to the Wetlands Bureau that this D&F be approved. Hub seconded the motion. Pierce abstained from voting. All other members present voted in favor of the motion.

1. HITCHINER - PAVILION. Diane announced that Phil Brooks, who is an architect and builder of post and beam structures, will attend next month's meeting and offer design ideas and other information pertaining to construction of a pavilion. Chris Costantino has been contacting some post and beam schools and suggested trying to involve students from local technical schools in the construction of the pavilion. No response has been received from the Milford High School regarding students building the pavilion.
   
   
2. CONSERVATION LAND BOUNDARY SIGNS. Quantity and appearance of signs to post around the boundaries of conservation lands were discussed. It was decided that 500 signs should be ordered and Chris C. made a motion to expend an amount not to exceed $450.00 for the purchase of Conservation Land Boundary signs. Rod seconded and the vote was unanimous in favor.

1. SAVAGE FARM LAND - Request for Release From Agricultural Easement Mr. Hugh Barrett, of Brentwood Golf Course in Keene, has been actively pursuing the development of the Hayward Acres Golf course on Elm St. and is looking at the Savage Farm property as a potential area on which to expand. Chris C., Hub and Diane met with Fred Loufgren, CEO of Hitchiner Mfg, and Mr. Barrett to discuss their request for release from the agricultural easement on the Savage Farm Land. The Board of Selectmen will be asked to support this request at their meeting on Nov. 13. Hub contacted the state and learned that the process needs to initiate at the local level, and if local government is not in favor of the release, the state will not consider it.
   
   Hub pointed out that the RSA's dictate that the easement can be released for the public good and/or if the land was no longer suitable for agriculture. The land is currently being used for growing corn. Rod brought up the fact that it is important to respect the intent of the person granting the easement. A letter from the commission stating the members' opinions on this issue will be drafted to the Board of Selectmen for their Nov. 13 meeting.
   
   
2. SITE WALKS - Procedure for scheduling. In some instances site walks must be scheduled before members are together at a monthly meeting, because of timetables of D&F application reviews. Members were asked how they would like the scheduling to be done in these instances. After a brief discussion it was decided that Rita would schedule a site walk with the owner/builder on a Sat morning 8 or 8:30 AM. Members would have 1-2 week's advance notice and be e-mailed of the date and time.
   
   
3. BAL-BRAE - Lot line adjustment and subdivision. The conservation commission is on the agenda for the 11/21 Planning Board meeting with regards to two items within the Bal-Brae subdivision. One is a lot line adjustment. A section of 52/95-5 will become part of lot 52/97-1. The other is a subdivision of a lot that includes a conservation easement. Map/Lot 52/95-9 will be subdivided and the easement will be donated to the town.

1. JOHNSON EASEMENT - Rodney Dellafelice. The deed has been signed and thank-you letters and deeds have or will be sent to Celia, Tovar, and Nichols-Smith.
   
   
2. TRAILS - Bob Walsh. On Nov. 4 a work session was held and work was done on the section of the RR Trail that runs through the Johnson Easement. The groups worked in 2 separate sections and the trail is now cleared, wide, and blazed throughout that section. The section of the trail near Melendy Rd. was also worked on where there were many fallen trees. The RR Trail is now complete from DPW to Brookline.
   
   The trails committee is thinking about nominating this trail into the Millennium Trail program, and Diane has arranged for someone from the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy to visit next April, and host a slide show and a hike of the trail.
   

Meeting Minutes of December 14, 2000

Present:
Diane Fitzpatrick, Chairperson, Hub Seward, Vice Chairman
Bob Walsh, Rodney Dellafelice, Pierce Rigrod, Full Members
Chris Costantino, Alternate Member

Excused:
Judy Gross

Others Attending:
Amelia Clark, Ben Gorman, Lisa Hawke, Mark Hutton, Sherrie Davis -
UNH students' presentation of wetland inventory
Raymond Shea of Sanford Surveying and Engineering, Steve Desmarais, Jack Pollock

1. UNH Students - Presentation of Senior Project of the fall semester 2000 - Wetland Inventory of Purgatory Brook and Hartshorn Pond. Students from UNH evaluated four wetlands in the Purgatory Brook Watershed and five wetlands in the Hartshorn Pond Watershed. using the New Hampshire Method. They concluded that the wetlands evaluated were pristine with the exception of two areas, an area north of Hartshorn Pond and a farm bordering Hartshorn Brook. Copies of the report are in the office. This inventory is part of an ongoing process of having all wetlands in Milford evaluated for quality, with the eventual goal of designating some as prime.
   
   
2. D&F - M7/L5 - Hollow Oak Lane - Steve Desmarais, current owner of M7/5, Jack Pollock, potential buyer of the property, and Ray Shea of Sanford Survey were present to discuss the proposed development of this lot which would involve construction of a 21,000 sq. ft. (plus 8,000 in 2nd phase) building with paved parking around it. On the north and west sides this lot abuts the Savage farm property (LCIP) upon which a golf course is being proposed. On the east side this lot abuts the Savage Well superfund site. The impact would be to 7400 sq.ft. of buffer and to 4300 sq. ft. of wetland. There would be sheet flow off the pavement - no closed drains or point discharge. Mr Shea and Mr. Desmarias describe the wetland that would be filled as "a hole dug in a gravel soil", surrounded by fields. They believe it was created by the farming around it. The potential owner of the business stated that he has no intention of using any of the rest of the lot and would be in favor of placing a conservation easement on it.
   
   It was agreed upon by the members that a letter would be written to the Wetlands Bureau recommending that this application be approved. It was also agreed that Diane would mention to the Planning Board that the potential owner has offered the possibility of a conservation easement being placed on this property.

1. Members were presented with copies of the Conservation Commission Operating Budget and Funds for the year 2000. They were informed that the Commission will be asking for $8,929.17 to be added to the Conservation Land Fund in order to bring the amount to $50,000. They were also asked to think about purchasing a slide projector & screen for next year, for approximately $1000. A suggestion was made to consider an overhead projector. Diane mentioned that early next year is time to think about priorities for LCHIP program.
   
   
2. Dadoly Land - access to M53/83. This land became landlocked when Dadoly donated his land to the town. The Commission reviewed the problem in Feb. 1996 and their response is in the 1996-02-08 minutes. The owners are presently going to the ZBA for permission to build a driveway to access their lot. After a brief discussion the members decided that Diane will inform the ZBA that if the owners build a driveway on their access, the Commission has the right to use it to access the conservation land.
   
   
3. Review of criteria for evaluation of D&F applications. - Members were handed 2 lists of criteria for evaluation of D&F applications. One is that of the state wetlands Bureau and the other is contained in the Wetland's Conservation District Ordinance for the town. When considering recommendation for or against proposed impacts, it is important to focus on these criteria, and when drafting letters explaining the commission's opinion, these criteria should be addressed.
   
   
4. RR Trail - Diane presented the members with a slide show of the trail running from DPW to the Brookline town line. She mentioned that a few things need to been taken care of, one being an abandoned truck on the trail. She had spoken with the abutter who seemed cooperative about working with the commission in getting the truck removed.
   
   Diane also reported that she met with Brice Repolt, Pres. and Richard P. Ronzio, VP of Northern Marble & Granite Co., Inc. the new owners of the Fletcher Granite Yard. These new owners were in favor of a trail running through their property. This section runs from DPW garage to South St. bringing the trail to town. It was agreed that 3 things need to be done. A survey should be done in the spring and the Commission would help with the cost. Secondly, they will subdivide and give the RRbed section to the town. Lastly, in the Spring commission members will walk the area and determine areas on which an easement would be placed. The owners of the granite yard are happy to let the trail through, would be willing to move granite out of the way, and mentioned that they would need a fence.
   
   
5. Zoning changes - The members were shown proposed revisions to the Zoning Ordinance. There will be some wording changes to the Open Space ordinance; private ways will no longer be allowed; and the entire R district will be 2 acre zoned. The members can make comments and were informed of public hearings to be held on Jan. 2, Jan. 9 and possibly Jan. 16.
   

1. North River Rd - M/L 6/19- owner wishes to divide a single 3 acre lot in half to create 2 lots. Members reviewed the plan and observed that by dividing this lot, a lot would be created that would require wetland impacts in order to develop. Diane will comment to the planning board that when subdividing this lot, the owners are creating a "hardship" by creating a lot that would be unusable without wetland impacts.

1. Stormwater Management - Pierce Rigrod has applied for a grant for $20,000 to have CEI to study the aquifer regarding water protection, yield and recharge. Basically what will be done is that much existing data that has been collected by various sources over time will be pulled together. A baseline of information will be established which will be available for use. Reports, maps, and recommendations for changes in site plan and stormwater regulations will be generated. The work will enable the town to look at high value water in town and to focus protection efforts around rivers and wells that could come back on line.