Minutes of the Old Lyme Conservation Commission Meeting: March 1, 2016
The meeting was called to order at 7:35 p.m.
Members present were Tom Sherer, Maureen Plumleigh, and Sue Baehr.
Guests present were Anu Godfrey-Fogg.
The minutes of the previous meeting were accepted as written.
New Business:
Revised List of Priority items for 2016:
Tom provided copies of a Revised Priorities document. Commission members will review the list and select areas of individual interests and target dates to complete. The document will be amended as needed and revisited at the next meeting.
NEC Future:
Tom submitted a letter to NEC on behalf of the OLCC opposing Alternative 1. Tom reviewed a schematic map showing the proposed railway construction through Old Lyme and discussion followed regarding negative consequences. It was noted that personal letters get the most notice from state representatives.
Weed Mats:
The plan to purchase two weed mats to loan out to the community was discussed. Since this item was budgeted for 2016, the funds are not available until June. Sue will review sizes of mats available and prepare an itemized purchase order including the rebar needed. Final decision of the purchase will be made at the next meeting. It was suggested that one mat would be used around the Haines Park area, and one would be available for loaning to the lake community.
Rogers Lake “Area of Special Concern” document:
The list was reviewed for specific areas that the OLCC can impact. Those items will be incorporated into the OLCC Priorities Document.
Town Woods Playing Fields:
The OLCC will follow-up with Parks and Rec to find out about the field treatment program for 2016.
Outreach:
The Events article on Water: A Precious Resource was submitted.
The library display on Riparian Gardens is scheduled for April. Maureen and Sue will coordinate on plans for the display.
Anu provided a list of school outreach projects. The list was reviewed for feasibility for this school year. Discussion around senior projects centered on designing a Facebook page, keeping it updated, attending meetings, and taking photos of projects as they happen. Another idea regarded a documentary film of nature trails which might include identification of native trees and shrubs. Additional discussion regarded maintenance of trails and liability issues. There was discussion on how and where to display elementary art or posters with a conservation theme.
Outreach items will be rolled into the priority list.
Old Business:
Town Woods Trash:
The large amount of trash in Haines Park and along Town Woods Rd was discussed. It was decided that a trash pick-up day would be coordinated.
Add to next month agenda item:
Sand added to West Shore Beaches and Haines Park.
Meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Sue Baehr
Acting Secretary
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