08/19/2025 FRESHWATER POND COMMITTEE Minutes

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Freshwater Ponds Committee August 19,2025 of invasive species in collaboration with Jason and the Natural Resources Department. In response to a question from Irene Checkovich regarding a public meeting with the Select Board about the estuary project, Fisher explained that there had been a delay related to a memorandum issue. This has since been resolved through FINCOM, and the public meeting is anticipated for October 2025, at which time results will be presented. Beech Tree Disease Update and Homeowner Remediation Process-Dan Kent Dan Kent reported that Beech Tree Disease is no longer limited to localized areas but is now affecting trees statewide, including significant impacts in Mashpee. Notably, areas around Mashpee-Wakeby Pond and Santuit Pond have been hit particularly hard, with the west side of Santuit Pond described as "devastated." Many trees in these areas are large (35–40 inches in diameter) and have lost over 75% of their leaves or branches, indicating they are dead or beyond recovery. Homeowners looking to remove infected beech trees must submit a Request for Determination of Applicability (RDA) to the Conservation Commission. This process allows the Commission to evaluate whether the proposed work will have any negative environmental impacts or, ideally, improve the surrounding area. As part of the application, homeowners are expected to provide a detailed landscape plan that addresses key issues such as erosion and runoff mitigation, particularly when trees are removed from sloped areas near water bodies. The plan should also include the replanting of native species to help maintain habitat integrity and bank stability. A question was raised about whether removing trees helps slow the spread of Beech Tree Disease. It was that there is no conclusive evidence that tree removal reduces the spread. However, each site is evaluated individually to determine the best course of action for stabilization and regrowth. Concerns were also expressed regarding dead trees falling into nearby lakes and the potential impact on the natural environment. It was acknowledged that change is inevitable. While many trees will fall, natural regrowth is already occurring, and more will be visible over time. In winter, residents are likely to notice an increase in bare or “skeleton” trees. There was also a question about enforcement and whether more residents are applying for permits to remove trees. It was noted that the department is proactive—responding quickly to unauthorized tree removal. When violations occur, they are addressed through enforcement actions, which often include requirements for restoration or mitigation planting. The department is considering ways to improve public access to this information, including updates to the town website. 3