Princeton Open Space Committee meeting minutes for Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Meeting began at 7:35 p.m.
Present: Kelton, Jim, Phil, Kim, Karen Excused: Deb
Guests: Tom Sullivan, Wally Whitney, Kathy Sweeney
On February 24th Kelton, Rick Gardner and Wally Whitney gave a presentation on the proposed Trail Around Princeton to the 17 members of the executive committee of the Nimrod Sportsmens Club. The presentation materials were prepared by Rick and the group had many questions for us. Some concerns include parking, litter, and proximity to the shooting range. They are going to implement the best archery range in the state, possibly in New England, in the near future. They would like our trail to incorporate education about hunting to those who visit the trails on their land. The meeting went well and we will continue to update and engage them.
Kathy Sweeney gave us an overview of the research she and Rick have done in the past month related to trails, as well as a written report with maps. They followed the route from Leominster State Forest to Quik Stop. Same information as was provided by Karen last summer. The landscape seems more accessible with snow cover. They didn’t use Jim Hillis’ property but since it’s parallel to the DCR watershed protection land it is still something to be considered.
She also gave us a report on their route from Krashes Field to East Princeton, including a report with maps as well. By utilizing the AT&T right-of-way they had to go on the road twice, but avoided a brook crossing. The trails were in great shape, but again, this was with several feet of snow and traveling by snowshoe. In warm weather there are some very wet areas to contend with. Much of the route is on Mosher property and snowmobiles were actively using a trail system there. Some DCR postings to the right of the trails. They ended up directly across the street from the Quik Stop.
Rick Gardner will also work with Tom Sullivan and also develop our electronic spreadsheet.
Kelton reports many new trails being made on Minns property (owned by Fish and Wildlife, which is different from DCR watershed protection) by unknown person(s).
Finally, we all took a look at the standard letter the Mid-State Trail folks present to landowners when they have a trail on their property. They basically deliver the letter, there is no discussion. It serves to alert the landowner, and references Mass General laws, Chapter 21, Section 17C, which states that any property owner who permits recreational use on their land without a fee is not liable for any injuries incurred on their property.
Minutes approved.
Meeting adjourned at 8:36 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Karen Rossow, Open Space Committee
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