Open Space Commission Minutes 8 February 2019
Open Space Commission
Minutes
8 February 2019
Members Present: Co-Chair Bill Dunbar, Secretary Peter Cable, Greg Futoma, Gary Gregory and Bruce Baratz
Guests: Malcolm W. Hill of Snowy Egret Wetland Services, LLC
Members Absent: Co-Chair Amanda Blair and Evan Griswold
Welcome/Introductions
Co-Chair Bill Dunbar called the meeting to order at 9:01 am.
Approval of Minutes
A motion was made by Peter Cable to approve January 11th minutes, seconded by Greg Futoma. All in favor.
New Business
- Eklund Phragmites
- Malcolm Hill, Snowy Egret Wetland Services, LLC discussed the invasive phragmite plant. Malcolm explained that the plant releases toxic chemicals that can damage other plants; no birds can land or feed on the phragmite which drives them away. Phragmite will outgrow everything, the goal is to restore wetlands and the natural wildlife. Malcolm stated that the machine he uses to cut the phragmite is also aquatic in order to access islands and wetlands. An alternative process to get rid of phragmite is to spray them with chemicals, however it must hit the seed heads when they are open in order to travel through the root system; however, spraying is controversial. Malcolm confirmed that cutting the phragmite gives the other plants a chance to grow. Gary Gregory asked if anything was being done genetically to assist the
problem and Malcolm confirmed there is not, as far as he is aware.
- Malcolm also explained the main reasons to remove or cut back the phragmite: it stops water flow (which results in mosquito breeding and disease sky rockets), water flow brings in natural crustaceans and smaller fish for the bird to eat and restores wildlife, sun blockage from the phragmite prohibits other plants from growing, and prohibits access to water. Malcolm stated that he can eradicate the invasive plant and cat tail will move into its place, which is less offensive; the process can take 3 or 4 years depending on consistency. Gary Gregory asked about seeding, Malcolm stated it can be expensive to seed and will also happen naturally if cutting is consistent.
Gary Gregory asked how many acres there are of phragmite in the area; Malcolm is unaware if a survey has ever been done. Greg Futoma asked if seeds from surrounding areas could re-distribute once it is cut and Malcolm confirmed that the Eklund pond area is self-sufficient and should not have an issue with seeds from surrounding wetlands. Peter Cable asked about the business aspect, specifically if there is an estimate provided prior to the work being completed. Malcolm confirmed pricing of $345 per acre and set up fee (transportation, gas, tools, etc.), however for larger properties (80-100 acres) the cost per acre drops. Bruce Baratz asked about the timeline for completion and Malcolm confirmed a day or two depending on the water level. Bruce also asked about the time of year to cut and
Malcolm confirmed he can do it any time of the year but prefers not to do it in the Spring when the wildlife returns. Bill Dunbar requested that Malcolm send a quotation for phragmite cutting on Eklund pond.
- Power tool use & training policy update
- Bill Dunbar spoke with Bonnie Reemsnyder regarding the insurance, he has not heard back so no update currently available. Gary Gregory suggested including a brush cutter to the list of tools.
Other Business
- Property easement policy discussion / Owner notification, inspections & enforcement
Gary Gregory is working on a package and will prepare it for Amanda upon her return. Peter Cable asked about property requirements and a letter and Gary confirmed he is working on it and there is a letter available through the town regarding what is allowed for easements. Peter Cable asked how each entity knows if the easement is being carried out and Gary confirmed there is unique documentation for each and a detailed inspection. Gary also confirmed the information should be in the deed and will be included in the letter.
- Conservation Commission contact/visit
Peter Cable suggested the Open Space Commission attend one of the Conservation Commission meetings to introduce OLOSC. Greg Futoma suggested inviting a chair to attend an OLOSC meeting; Gary Gregory agrees. Peter will ask a chair member to attend March Open Space meeting.
- CLCC 2019 Conference – March 23 / Artist-environmental group partnership workshop
Peter Cable stated the CT Land Conservation Commission annual conference is March 23. Peter confirmed he will attend. More discussion at next OLOSC meeting in March.
- New member & volunteer recruitment
Greg Futoma stated he met with Don Leroy and his wife; she may be interested in volunteering. Gary Gregory mentioned he has met several people on the trails and will follow up regarding volunteering. Gary suggested having a business card, sign or possible a T-shirt that states OLOSC ambassador to help attract volunteers.
Gary Gregory also mentioned he has been reviewing the maps and does not believe they are accurate; will use GPS to make revisions. Greg Futoma stated he will contact Lisa to discuss the software. Bill Dunbar confirmed that he has not heard back from Jason at Wilcox, and Gary confirmed he has walked a few trails and has seen no fresh cuts.
Adjournment
Peter Cable made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Bill Dunbar at 10:14 am.
Sarah Michaelson
Open Space Clerk
2/18/2019
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