August 12

Condensed from approved minutes

Present: Mary Anne Broshek, Larry Chase, Tina Cotton, Jerry Hersey, Nan Kaplan, Derek Mansell

Wetlands Permit for DOT work on Route 11 in East Andover: Members reviewed backup documentation and expressed concern over removal of beaver dam. Removal instead of using Beaver Deceivers results in another dam being built, higher costs to taxpayers, and potential harm to beavers. Mary Anne will contact DOT to recommend the use of a Beaver Deceiver as an alternate method.

Emerald Ash Borer: Flyers were handed out to members who will post in public places

ASLPT Update: Nan will take the lead on scheduling a public hearing for using the Conservation Fund for McLeod donation. Mary Anne will check with NHACC to get specific requirements.

Planning Board Meeting of August 11: Tina and Mary Anne attended the August 11 Planning Board meeting to discuss the Business District and the Natural Resources Inventory.

There was general consensus that better protection could be achieved with a conservation easement on Town land combined with a series of business requirements that became stricter based on proximity to the wetlands, flood plain, and wildlife habitat. A site visit will be scheduled. Note that the Town acquired this land by eminent domain.

Tina provided a quick review of the Natural Resources Inventory (NRI) and will return for the second September Planning Board meeting to conduct a visual presentation. It was stressed that the NRI is an important document that should be used by all Town boards and interested residents.

Duncan will have the most current NRI put on the Town Web site, and Paul will set up the equipment for the September 22 meeting.

Mary Anne spoke to a consultant who is an expert in wetlands, forestry, and wildlife who could provide expertise in drawing the lines of the business district and Town conservation easement. Cost would be around $500.

Members requested more detailed information on exact work to be performed and how it would fit in with site visit. Mary Anne will e-mail resume and provide requested information at the next meeting.

Derek’s plans: Derek will be taking the lead on the Business District site visit and will monitor all of the easements held by the Town of Andover with the exception of the Fenvale and Newman easements. Tina and Derek reviewed the state and Town requirements on wetland buffers.

Rain Barrels and Composters: Deadline for orders has passed. Pick up to be announced.

Fee Ownership: Nan will check with ASLPT to determine if they will be putting a conservation easement on the lands that are donated to them.

New Bradley Lake Sign: The sign has been received and is in the Town Office. Mary Anne spoke to Marj, and sign will be installed by the Town road crew.