Jackson Conservation Commission Minutes September 10, 2012
Present: Larry Siebert, Pam Smillie, Hank Dresch, Jess Wilson, Mike Dufilo. Absent: Brian Byrne, Dave Matesky.
The meeting convened at 5:35pm.
The Minutes from August 13, 2012 were approved.
Memorial Benches: Based upon the discussions during the August meeting, Larry reported that Larry Baima, representing the East Side Walk Foundation, will discuss the creation of a process for creating memorial benches in the future. Hank suggested the Cemetery Trustees are also included in the discussion.
Washington Boulder/Profile Rock: The commission discussed whether this Jackson feature needs a new sign. If relabeled, the commission discussed that the sign could include both common names and the history behind each name. The Historical Society will be consulted about these histories.
Gray’s Inn Property: Hiking/Snowshoeing Trail: Larry filled out the necessary information for the DES trail notification, and shared the application with the commission. The application includes a letter from the NH Natural Heritage Bureau ( indicating that there were no sensitive or endangered species in the 30’ of wetlands that the trail will cross) and a blueprint that proposes the tentative trail layout. Once the application is approved, the Commission plans to blaze the trail this fall.
Japanese Knotweed: Invasive Species Removal: A Jackson property owner wrote a letter to the Selectmen asking the town to address the knotweed issue along Dundee Road before the knotweed enters their property. The property owner indicated that they are currently aggressively managing the knotweed on their property, but asked the town to address the spread of the invasive plant as it will soon overtake their efforts. The Town Selectmen asked the Conservation Commission to look up acceptable options from DES. In order for DES to permit spraying for knotweed on town property or town ROWs, the town can either hire a licensed contractor, or a few town employees could obtain a “Not for Hire” License. Mike expressed interest in the town employee license option as this would allow the town to spray
when needed rather than go through the process of hiring a third party contractor each time the town has the need to spray. Surrounding towns will be asked about their knotweed policies and more information from DES on the licensing parameters will be researched.
Jackson Falls: The commission members in attendance agreed that the commission should work to create a 5 to 10 year management plan that the town employees and the conservation commission can work to implement as needed. This type of long term plan would provide guidance for the town and its residence despite employee and commission member turnover. As a first step to create this plan, the commission members will each take a copy of Alice Pepper’s 1983 Plan of the Falls and visit the falls to determine current visitor traffic and how it could be managed. After discussing these options together, the commission plans to contract with a third party to develop the management plan. A motion to reimburse Pam Smillie for making 7 blueprint-sized copies of Alice Pepper’s Plan was approved.
Grist Mill Sign: Larry received a quote from Gemini Signs for $1250 plus $50/hour for design fees. He will continue to receive quotes from other sign companies. Larry shared a proposed sign narrative—the commission members will review and share comments during the October meeting. Mike suggested shortening the narrative to keep the attention of the average reader; Hank suggested that the narrative focuses on the Falls and the grist mill rather than the general history of the river.
The meeting adjourned at 6:52pm
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