CONSERVATION COMMISSION
The meeting opened at 7:30 and was televised.
The minutes of December 6th were discussed. Other than removing Michele’s name from the list of those present, there were no changes. Judy made a motion to accept the minutes as amended and Michele seconded the motion. The motion passed.
Survey
Chris had received quotes a few months back regarding surveying the recent land purchase. The Commission was searching for some sort of grant money to assist with the financing. Chris asked if we should go ahead now with the survey or wait until the snow melts. With snow on the ground the surveying may need to return anyway in order to search for landmarks and such. It was decided to continue researching grants and waiting until the snow melts to do the survey. Realizing the price of the bids may change, the Commission will decided in March when the survey will be done.
Easement
The joint meeting was discussed. It’s the general consensus that Bruce Schwaegler was able to put people’s minds at ease and was able to explain Audubon’s position on certain issues. It was decided to send the copy of the easement draft to all the town boards for any final comments and then to send a copy to legal for their review.
It was asked if there’s a timeframe for finishing the Stewardship plan. Chris and Jason reiterated that a 30 month deadline was agreed upon by those present at the December meeting. The Forestry Committee has invited the Conservation Committee to a meeting in January to lay the ground work for finishing the Stewardship plan.
Michele asked about any changes that need to be made to the easement. Jason asked about Tuckertown Road. It was decided to take it out of the easement and Judy mentioned that NH doesn’t need any more ATV trails. The exact acreage will need to be determined for the final copy of the Easement.
Grants
The search for grants has not been successful. The Commission is looking for help with the Stewardship Plan, survey, and Wildlife and Natural Resources. Michele had tried to contact the NH Association of Natural Resource Sciences but has been unsuccessful. Chris will contact Emily Brukhurst and ask for another recommendation.
2007 Annual Report
Chris asked Janet to write the annual report. This is due at the town hall by next Monday.
Agenda for 2008
Chris asked for suggestions for the agenda for the new year. Finishing the Easement, as well as finishing the Wetlands Inventory so that we can finish the Prime Wetland designation done, are first on the list of priorities. Added to the list will be potential land acquisition, grants, planning and working with neighboring towns, working with Forestry to finish Stewardship plan, Wildlife Action Plan and inventory.
Correspondence
Other business:
Chris mentioned that if a member is going to be late for a meeting to please call. The other members don’t mind waiting if they know someone is coming to the meeting later. Jason asked about the potential land donation off of Rt. 111. It was explained to him that the Selectmen are handling that issue and it was determined that the exact location of the property is unknown. Before the Selectmen accept the land, they would like to know exactly what they’re getting. Apparently the land owner owns several pieces and Chris will ask about having him donate more pieces of property.
The membership list will be updated with the addition of term expiration dates.
Jason made a motion to adjourn the meeting and Judy seconded. The motion passed unanimously and the meeting adjourned at 9:30 pm.
*****Next Meeting: January 17, 2008 at 7:30pm****
Minutes are prepared by Janet S. Denison, clerk