4/30/2009 CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes

Home Browse Search

a boundaries and other maps to cheek for encroachment. Mr. Mayo suggested GPS devices known as "Trax Stix"which the Agent plans to order to be used by volunteers as they walk their parcels. The device attaches to a belt or key chain and will plot the trail as the volunteer is walking. The information can then be downloaded by Mr. Mayo to add trail information to GIS. The Agent also reported that a database is being created for each parcel utilizing information received from volunteers. The Agent will order a number of signs to identify parcels as Conservation Land, and he 's hopeful that volunteers will assist with installation. Green tram marker signs that say `Mashpee Conservation Land"have also been ordered. Agent McManus is also working on creating a newsletter utilizing the town's website in order to keep the Stewards updated. The Agent plays to host a meeting possibly in.mid June. Agent McManus will continue to assign parcels to volunteers but would life to reorganize the program in such a way that projects can be assigned to stewards who have already gathered the necessary information about the parcels. Work groups could be created to perform manual labor,research information in the office or run trail cleanup days. The responsibility for the Land Stewardship program will remain with the Assistant Agent, along with other Conservation responsibilities, once someone has been hired for the position. The Chair suggested newspaper coverage for the Program to which the Agent responded he had'already been in contact with Brian Kerl of the Mashpee Enterprise. 5) Enforcement Agent McManus announced that enforcement had stepped up,particularly at John's fond, on the weekends. The Agent would like identify additional areas that could be gated, He wishes to look at parcels and identify areas that will allow public access but gate off areas that should nt have excessive access,using lock boxes to allow access for emergency responders. Agent McManus noted that some areas are restricted but not consistently across the board. The Agent wishes to protect parcels and eliminate illegal activities while allowing public access and installing proper signage. He also noted that funds are available to pay for gating. 6) llashpee River woodlands-wildfire Prevention Funds in the amount of$ 2,000 have been received for wildfire treatment and gates. The Agent is speaking with Chief Baker about hosting a meeting for area residents to discuss upcoming mechanical treatment. Chief Baker has also suggested introduction of"Fire wise,"a state sponsored program,to.discuss smart practices to reduce wildfire hazard. It was suggested that chipper be made available once a year,on a designated day, so that local residents bordering the parcel can easily remove their brush. 7) ConCom Membership The Commission briefly discussed the resignations of members Bob Anderson and Jack hates. Agent McManus.suggested inviting Associate Member Mark Gumee to become a full time member. Hearine Agenda 7:00 James Shalek,NOI— 127 Popponesset island Toad(Emo/construct house,septic,pooh patio) (Continued from 3/19/09) Agent McManus confirmed that the delineation of the wetlands had not yet been completed. The delineation and on site should be completed in time for the 5128 meeting, Motion made, seconded and unanimously carried for a Continuance until 5/28/09 at+7:09 pm. 2