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Freshwater Ponds Committee <br /> Meeting Minutes <br /> October 28,2025 <br /> The next meeting forthe Freshwater Ponds Committee will be December 8,2025 at 6 p.m. <br /> Potential Candidate for Technical Expert Role <br /> The committee discussed a potential candidate for the Technical Expert rolewho was <br /> identified through participation in local environmental work. Initial email contact has been <br /> made, and a follow-up conversation is planned so the candidate can learn more aboutthe <br /> position before deciding whether to apply. The individual has experience in wetland <br /> ecology and manages several local projects, and members noted thattheir background <br /> could be a strong fit for the committee's needs. If the candidate chooses to move forward, <br /> they will complete the standard application and interview process. Even if theydecide not <br /> to pursue the role, they may be able to recommend other qualified individuals. Further <br /> updates will be provided as discussions continue. <br /> OLD BUSINESS <br /> Guest Speaker- Kim Comart <br /> Kim Comart Founder of Falmouth Pond Coalition and Chair of Falmouth's Freshwater <br /> Ponds Advisory Committee provided an overview of how their community organizes <br /> freshwater pond protection efforts. <br /> He described the formation of multiple local pond groups, thevalue of building <br /> stewardship at the neighborhood level, and the parallel structure of having both a coalition <br /> for education and advocacy and a town-appointed advisory committee for science-based <br /> recommendations. He explained how their committees developed work groups focused on <br /> fertilizer, stormwater, septic systems, and public education, and how regular use of action- <br /> oriented meeting minutes, guest speakers, and strong liaison relationships with town <br /> departments have helped them gain traction overtime. <br /> His experience highlighted the importance of subject-matter experts, realistic goal-setting, <br /> clear priorities, and collaboration with the Select Board. He also emphasized practical <br /> strategies such as improving fertilizer regulation, tracking septic maintenance, addressing <br /> stormwater on public and private roads, and increasing community awareness. <br /> The committee expressed interest in reflecting on these insights and considering how <br /> similar approaches—such as subcommittees, portfolios, and expanded pond group <br /> participation—might be adapted to meet the needs of their own town. <br /> Continue to Review, Discuss and Adopt Short- and Long-Term Goals/Objectives <br /> 4 <br />