In a recent government meeting, serious concerns were raised regarding the management of Heron Pond in Milford, following an incident where the Department of Public Works (DPW) illegally breached a crucial beaver dam. This action, which occurred on July 15, led to a rapid and significant draining of the pond, resulting in the death of several fish species and raising alarms among local conservationists and state agencies.

Witnesses reported that the DPW used an excavator to alter the shoreline without the necessary state permissions, causing water levels to plummet dramatically within a single day. The aftermath revealed dead fish washed up at the dam, highlighting the ecological damage inflicted by the town's actions. The situation was exacerbated by plans from the conservation commission, led by coordinator Chris Costantino, to replace the existing twelve-inch beaver pipe with a larger one, further threatening the pond's water levels.

State agencies, including the Fish and Game conservation officer and the Department of Environmental Services, are now investigating potential violations of wildlife and wetlands laws. These agencies had previously warned the town about maintaining adequate water levels to protect local wildlife, a directive that was evidently ignored.

As the water in Heron Pond reaches unnaturally low levels, community members and environmental advocates are calling for accountability from town officials. They emphasize the importance of preserving this ecological area for the future health of Milford, urging the town to learn from past mistakes and take immediate action to rectify the situation. The ongoing investigations underscore the critical need for responsible environmental stewardship in the region.