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The second Element specifically relates to the protection of <br />Wetlands and Wildlife/Plant habitat and the maintenance of <br />wildlife populations and species diversity. There are a number <br />of rare woodland communities (the pine barrens in South Mashpee, <br />beach groves) some of which are preserved by Town Conservation <br />and Trustees of Reservations Lands. The State suggests <br />protecting those areas containing rare plants. They are <br />generally located in the pine barrens, along the Mashpee River, <br />and around Mashpee Pond. A good portion of which are already <br />protected. There are located at Ashumet Pond, rare costal plain <br />pondshore plants, that should be protected. <br />Bird species have diminished considerably during the last <br />two decades along the East Coast due to suburban development. <br />The intent of the wildlife Refuge is to protect large areas of <br />open space. The Refuge extends to the Sandwich Town Line, <br />includes Johns Pond Park and further extends into Falmouth. The <br />Refuge is also attempting to protect wildlife migration <br />corridors. <br />Water protection is a prime reason for the preservation of <br />Open Space. The zone II recharge areas of public water supply <br />wells that have either been developed by the water District or <br />are proposed to be developed were displayed on the overhead by <br />Mr. Fudala. The fresh water pond areas should also be protected. <br />The Cape Cod Commission Act and Town Comprehensive Plans <br />will insure neighboring resources are protected. Wildlife and <br />plant habitat areas were displayed on the overhead. These areas <br />being important to protect in terms of land acquisition. <br />Based upon the Goals and Objectives, research into which <br />areas need protection and the results of the public opinion <br />survey (1992), the Action Plan was developed: <br />Policies - Modification of comments made at last year's <br />public hearing regarding Goals and Objectives at the Planning <br />Board level. Revisions in the Regional Policy Plan were also <br />taken into account. <br />Five -Year Action Plan - Yearly listing stating <br />recommendations for land acquisitions, open space and recreation <br />facility construction. <br />Long -Range Plan - Concepts regarding desired long-range <br />accomplishments. The first few of which are also reflected in the <br />five-year plan, relate to the National wildlife Refuge. The Town <br />would like to acquire any non -publicly owned refuge land in order <br />to assure public protection. Development of a Refuge Visitor <br />Center is proposed, which Center would be Federally funded. <br />Mashpee River Corridor protection. There are two purchases <br />recommended in the five-year plan, located in the upper portion <br />of the River, which would complete this project. Complete <br />implementation of Johns Pond Park Master Plan. Completion of <br />-4- <br />