Bradford Conservation Commission Secretary’s Report
June 18, 2019, 7pm at Brown Memorial Library
Present: George Beaton, Nathanial Bruss, J Ann Eldridge, Meg Fearnley, Patty Furness, Brooks McCandlish, and Doug Southard.
Appearances: Denise Renk, owner of a 168 acre heritage breed farm on Rte 114 in Bradford, was present to inquire about a conservation easement. Ann will contact Andy Deegan of ASLPT regarding this property, and suggested that Denise do also.
Jane M. Lucas was present to learn more about the Class VI Road Ordinance Proposal.
Secretary’s Draft Report: The draft minutes of 5/16/2019 were reviewed. A motion was made by Meg to accept the report, seconded by George, and unanimously approved.
Treasurer’s Report: Meg stated that $0.26 interest was earned on accounts. A motion was made by Brooks to accept the report, seconded by Nathanial, and unanimously approved.
Class VI Road Ordinance Proposal: Three members of the BCC attended the 6/17 Select Board meeting to present the drafted statutory mission of the BCC, and also the draft recommendations on Class VI road ordinances. The drafts were accepted and approved. It was noted that ordinances regarding Class VI road usage during mud season, as well as heavy equipment usage already exist, but enforcement is needed. The BCC will continue to assist and advise the Select Board in updating ordinances to protect the integrity of these roads.
Fitness Building Repurposing: The proposed commercial garden/pet retail establishment was approved by special exception by the ZBA at the 6/05/19 meeting. A Planning Board site walk and public hearing is scheduled on Thursday June 25. The site plan of the property indicates the western edge of the building and property lies within the 100 year floodplain, so BCC will submit concerns regarding prohibiting the use of pesticides and toxic substances in this area.
Ausbon Sargent Landowner Workshop: The focus of the September public forum at the library will be on the south center of Bradford. Ann requested that BCC members review the landowner list assembled by Seth, make any additions, and be prepared to review and discuss at next month’s meeting.
Ausbon Sargent Bradford Bog Walk: A walk along the boardwalk and visit to the Bradford Hotel and Springs site is scheduled for Thursday July 18 at 2pm. Ann will contact Deb Dunlop to inquire if she would be willing to lead this educational walk.
Fairgrounds Road Beaver Dam: The town road crew has needed to address problems caused by a beaver dam on Fairgrounds Road. The BCC will suggest the implementation of a beaver deceiver at this location to the Select Board.
Friends of the Minks: Doug updated the group’s recent focus in working with two local ATV clubs to educate about OHRV rules for Class VI roads. A handy user friendly list of rules has been printed to pass out to ATV trail riders.
Rail Trail: Ann shared an email from Michelle Halstead (RHC) regarding the rail trail section in Bradford. Michelle questioned if a sign was needed regarding usage to protect the trail substrate. George suggested we refer her to the snowmobile club to post signage. She also expressed concern about drainage problems on the Tilly Wheeler trail. George commented that material is needed to build this area of the trail up.
With no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:20pm. The next meeting will be held Tuesday July 16, 2019, 7pm at Brown Memorial Library.
Respectfully submitted,
Patty Furness, Secretary