Conservation Commission
Friday, January 3, 2025
Meeting Minutes

Members present: Harry Wolhandler, Andrew Maneval, John Sandri, Jordan Long, Ralph Zingaro, Jessica Zander, Don Scott
Attendees: Road Agent Wes Tarr, Winston Sims

Agenda, Minutes of December meeting – Members approved the agenda and the minutes of 12-4-2024.

Sanding and salting, patterns and practices – The HCC discussed Harrisville’s road treatment program with the Road Agent, asking about potential opportunities to use sand versus salt on town roads, particularly in areas adjacent to town water bodies to protect water quality.

HCC members shared information they learned from their research into neighboring towns’ treatment strategies. Mr. Tarr explained why Harrisville still uses salt as well as sand, noting that treatment with salt is more effective on slopes and sharp curves, particularly for roads used by the school buses.  In addition, use of sand requires many days of spring cleanup, with associated costs. All acknowledged that sand used on our roads and other towns’ roads still necessarily contains a percentage of salt. The Road Agent did note he would try the sand option on Roxbury Road, which he has sanded versus salted at times in the past, for the remainder of the season.

Knotweed Removal – In further discussions with the Road Agent, the HCC requested that the Highway Department please stop mowing the knotweed stands due to spread of seeds. The Road Agent noted it still needs to be removed for visibility to maintain safe driving conditions. The HCC is obtaining quotes for knotweed removal options for key roadside locations around town.

For budget impact on a knotweed removal program, the Chair noted Conservation Funds would be used; the HCC is authorized to spend from this fund without a vote at Town Meeting.    For 2024 the HCC is looking at treating town roadsides only; the state would have to be involved for any treatment on state roads.  Any removal adjacent to roadsides would require approval of property owners.  Members agreed that for a multi-year program/approach, the Town should be involved.

The HCC noted the recommendation is to have knotweed dry in place to prevent spreading, but that the HCC should defer to experts.  The goal is a June cutting. The Road Agent will check about renting a mower with sickle, aiming to reserve for June. The HCC and Mr. Tarr will stay in touch.

Beetle Project/Saving Hemlocks – The chair reported on project finances for the Laricobious Beetle Project. The HCC has approved a total project allocation of $30,000. $17,000 has been expended to date. Members have identified two additional release sites, one on Rosemary Trail and one on Route 137.

Update from the Select Board – Andrew Maneval shared that potential warrant articles include road work, enhanced security at Town Hall, and facility improvements at the Recycle Center.

Reminder: The HCC now meets from 3:00 – 5:00 pm on the first Wednesday of the month to accommodate members’ schedules. The next meeting is February 5, from 3-5 pm at Town Hall.

The meeting adjourned at 4:55 pm.