7/14/2011 ENVIRONMENTAL OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE Minutes

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project. Mr. York noted that wind projects were not the place to spend funds since there had been limited changes to the technology whereas solar has seen dramatically improved technology. Pickerel Cove Recreation Area Chairman Cahalane referenced the request sponsored by the Conservation Department. The Chair referenced the comments by an abutter at Town Meeting, noting that Conservation Agent Drew McManus had been in contact with the abutter. The application has been re-submitted with funds requested in the amount of$64,160. Mr. York stated his support of the application. There was discussion about the plan with the intent to clear the existing field and provide parking to walk canoes to the water. Mr. York noted that it would be a great recreational facility. Mr. Petersen made a motion to endorse the application. Mr.Theis seconded the motion. All voted unanimously. OLD BUSINESS Action Items Zero Phosphorus Lawn Fertilizer Bylaw Update Chairman Cahalane stated that the bylaw would not be ready for the October Town Meeting, suggesting that the current bylaw may be too restrictive. The Chair suggested that the focus be on educating residents. Mr. York agreed, adding that residents test their lawns to identify the amount of phosphorus needed. Mr. York also referenced the Blue Book and recommended using the Enterprise to inform residents,using monitoring statistics and encouraging residents to work toward improving the statistics. The Chair stated that 80%of survey respondents supported a potential bylaw restricting phosphorus. Mr. Petersen noted that survey respondents were not representative of the resident population due to limited participation. Mr. White inquired about the Town's lawn practices and Mr. Theis responded that slow release fertilizer and reduced application were being utilized. Mr. Petersen recommended approaching landscapers for their support to help promote the bylaw. Mr. Petersen noted that storeowners would want to have a phase in so as not to be stuck with product and recommended the benefits of identifying a product that could be as effective as phosphorus containing fertilizer. Combine Water-Sewer Chairman Cahalane reported that the attorneys were working out a solution to agree to work together. Town-Wide Stormwater Management Plan DPW Director Catherine Laurent has had a busy schedule. Mr. York reported that Ms. Laurent recently reported to the Conservation Commission about the federally funded Mashpee Neck Landing plans. Santuit Pond and Santuit Pond Grant Discussed previously Land Steward Program The Chair suggested that the program may have fallen by the wayside. Water Quality Monitoring Mr. York reported that Brian Howes recently provided a multi-year water quality monitoring report regarding nitrogen loading. The monitoring was completed in conjunction with the Tribe and SMaST. Mr. York reported that nitrogen was increasing, with a significant increase in Little River, Great River, Hamblin Pond and Jehu Pond, where Mr. York is attempting to grow more quahogs. Mr. Howes noted 3 .