05/09/2024 CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes

Home Browse Search

o Roll Call: Ms. Thornbrugh (Yes), Mr. Cook(Yes), Ms. Godfrey(Yes) and Mr. Colombo (Yes). Motion passes unanimously. APPROVAL OF Minutes April 18, 2024 (Paul Colombo, Steve Cook, Erin Copeland, Marjorie Clapprood, Sandra Godfrey, Sarah Thornbrugh). Motion made by Mr. Cook to accept the minutes for April 18, 2024, with the correction to change Ms. Thornbrugh as a "zoom" attendee. Motion seconded by Ms. Godfrey. o Roll Call: Ms. Thornbrugh (Yes), Mr. Cook(Yes), Ms. Godfrey(Yes) and Mr. Colombo (Yes). Motion passes unanimously. DISCUSSION • Community Preservation Committee —Trail proposal, Mr. Atkinson has submitted an application to the Community Preservation Committee for a feasibility study on trail improvements throughout the Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge. The intent is to improve trail access and to create a network throughout the refuge with the benefit of increased recreational opportunities and greater usage and appreciation for the town's natural beauty. He adds that a residential LCP (Local Comprehensive Plan) town survey was completed, which resulted in: • 84%were drawn to Mashpee for it's natural beauty • 33%think the town meets the bike trail needs • 84%+ consider biking and walking paths either very or somewhat important • 64% supports an update to the town's bicycle and pedestrian plan Mr. Atkinson provides a slideshow detailing connection points of each section throughout the town. COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS • Mr. Atkinson has met with the Planning Board and intends to meet with the Environmental Oversight Committee. • All proposed trails will be flat and wheelchair accessible with a porous surface. • Several locations do provide parking areas with others being within walking distance. • Mr. Atkinson states that both the Wampanoag Tribe and Friends of the Mashpee Wildlife Refuge expressed interest in the project. 3