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HomeMy WebLinkAboutConservation Minutes 1/31/1994MANSFIELD CONSERVATION COMMISSION MINUTES MONDAY, JANUARY 31, QV4rs &`'f QE_ ] _f Vi 1 s.'-1 _i_Ca Members Present: Chairman Cauldwel , 3g{�fi si owers, Sadowski, WeidnerS't Members of the Norton ConservatipP 50 0 Vb$e introduced, as well as Norton's Conservation Commiss4isi0401, Kathy Romero. Leonard Flynn, representative from Mansfield's NRT, was also present, as was a representative from Norton's Land Preservation Society (suz -ewe A complimentary copy of NORTON RESERVOIR: DAYSTATE DIAGNOSTIC AND FEASIBILITY STUDY was given to the Mansfield Conservation Commission. CComm. Powers provided background /overview for the benefit of new commissioners not familiar with the project's history.] The project is estimated to cost $11.5 million. The success of the proposed dredging and watershed management project would necessitate reducing nutrient flow, which will require assistance from Mansfield, Foxboro, and Sharon who are upstream,, in order to get phosphorus and nitrogen concentrations down to the recommended levels. Norton officials have applied for a grant to conduct regional management seminars. Norton Conservation Commissioner Yelle asked questions about what was in the old bleachery located in Mansfield, and whether anything from that area is now dumped into the Rumford River. Chairman Cauldwell asked the Norton commissioners to suggest what Mansfield's role would be in getting nutrient load down. Commissioner Yelle suggested more frequent cleaning of catch basins; making sure adequate sedimentation controls and basins are in place; upgrading stormwater runoff facilities which may not have sedimentation controls; and educating homeowners on lawncare. Norton is currently looking for a person to work solely on the reservoir project. A current problem is financial support for what will be a costly project. L. Flynn put forth the idea of the importance of "selling" the various projects to townspeople to build local support. Commissioner Yelle suggested forming an association which incorporates Norton, Sharon, Mansfield, and Foxboro. Leonard Flynn has had discussions with state and private officials, all of whom support the preservation of the Great Woods for conservation purposes, although no officials decisions have been issued. Mr. Flynn reiterated NRT's opposition to the proposed road through the Great Woods, stating that it would adversely affect NRT's 20 -year acquisition efforts. The bank is currently negotiating with Trust for Public Land to sell their holdings - including these lands, about 1000 acres of land is under discussion. The Trust for Public Lands would develop developable land along Rte. 140 and sell it, to recoup some of the purchase costs.. MANSFIELD CONSERVATION COMMISSION MINUTES MONDAY, JANUARY 31, 1994 -- PAGE 2 Chairman Cauldwell asked what support there was in Norton for a joint project of this nature. [Comm. Weidner arrived.] The Land Preservation Society has worked with HRT all along, and has long supported the project. Norton Selectmen (which may Undergo change in the next election) and the Conservation Commission have supported the project in theory; Kathy Romero suggested that it would be helpful. for Mr. Dlackett of the Trust to return and talk to selectmen again, because there are new people involved. Mr. Yelle urged a joint -resolution of support. Ms. Romero stated that in Norton's current open Space and Recreation Plan, Great Woods is a prime target for acquisition, unless something became available around Horton Reservoir. Mr. Yelle also suggested a multi -town effort should be made on behalf of the Rumford River, similar to that made to protect the Canoe River. MOTION: As a result of a joint meeting on 1 -31 -94 the two commissions agree to make a concerted and .joint effort regarding acquisition in the Great Woods area and common watershed areas of mutual benefit to Mansfield and Norton. (Powers - Sadowski; all in favor) VOTED Made and seconded by Norton Conservation Commission members present as well, and voted. CERTIFICATES OF COMPLIANCE: SE211 -434: House has been removed satisfactorily from lot 6. Lot 7: letter from Ralph Maloon states that grading, etc. that is necessary will be within the drain easement which currently under Planning Hoard bonding jurisdiction anyway. Comm. Powers suggested that a copy of an agreement between purchaser and development allowing the appropriate work to be done be submitted. Comm. Sadowski is not comfortable without seeing the legal documentation for such an easement. MOTION; To issue partial certificate for lot 6 from SE211 -434; and a partial on lot 7 contingent upon work being completed in accordance with the orders, delegating responsibility for confirmation to Dick (between now and newt meeting). - (Powers - Weidner; all in favor) VOTED The meeting adjourned at 9 :33.