04/16/2026 CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes (2)

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I Town of Mashpee Conservation Commission 16 Great Neck Road North Mashpee, MA 02649 Updates: (*15 minutes) (Public Comment solicited for each update—3 minutes per comment) The following updates will be discussed at the April 16, 2026, Quarterly Meeting: Red Brook Road Culvert(Waquoit Bay Research Reserve—Grant Assistance) Staff reported that the project remained in the permitting phase. Work was ongoing to complete land easement negotiations and potential land acquisition involving properties in both Falmouth and Mashpee. These negotiations were currently the primary factor delaying the project. It was anticipated that once resolved,permitting applications would be submitted shortly thereafter. Upper Quashnet Restoration Staff reported that 50% design plans were nearing completion and would be presented to the Commission in the near future. The project was described as a large-scale restoration effort involving river realignment,berm removal, culvert removal, and vegetation management across a significant portion of the Quashnet Woods area. Johns Pond and Santuit Pond Milfoil Staff reported that permitting efforts were underway, with application materials currently being prepared. One project, funded by the Tribe, was progressing more quickly.Notices of Intent(NOIs)were expected to be submitted once application development was complete. Coordination with the Tribe was ongoing. Chop Chaque Bog Restoration Staff reported that the project was progressing well. The site was retaining more water than initially anticipated, which was described as beneficial for wildlife, particularly waterfowl. Early vegetation establishment had been observed in the prior season, with expectations for additional aquatic and riparian vegetation growth in the current season. Local Comprehensive Plan Staff reported that the plan was in the finalization stage. Herring Warden Staff reported that the herring run had begun earlier than usual and was significantly stronger compared to the prior year. Approximately 1,900 fish had been counted within a week and a half, compared to approximately 2,000 fish at the same point in the previous year. Active monitoring and maintenance of fish ladders were ongoing. Dredging had recently been completed at the Johns Pond fish ladder to restore flow conditions due to sediment accumulation and low water levels from prior drought conditions. Herring activity had resumed following dredging. Santuit Pond Fish Ladder—NRCS Staff reported that a project to reinforce the banks adjacent to the fish ladder was in development, funded by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). The structure itself would remain,but failed bank areas would be reconstructed. Design had been completed, and the project was anticipated to move into permitting, with construction expected to follow shortly thereafter. Mashpee River Restoration Staff reported that discussions were ongoing with abutting property owners along Mill Pond regarding river realignment. The final alignment of the river remained under consideration and would be influenced by abutter 10