Conservation commission to lead trails advisory work; updates on Ridge Hill, signs and outreach

Needham Conservation Commission staff reported Sept. 25 that trail‑planning work is advancing: intersection stakes were installed at Ridge Hill to prepare for wooden posts, staff will develop Trailhead sign designs for commission review, and the select board advised the commission to lead the trails advisory function rather than forming a separate permanent advisory body.

Conservation Specialist Timothy Puopolo said staff and Chair David Harrer staked intersections to mark locations for Premier Fence to install wooden posts, hoping to have posts installed in October and signs up by spring. Puopolo said the select board viewed the commission’s draft trails master-plan steps favorably and suggested the commission present trails updates as a regular agenda item so other departments and boards can be invited when relevant.

Commissioners discussed sign design and review process. Puopolo said he would circulate a showcase of Trailhead sign concepts and a short survey to commission members; staff intend to refine designs internally before requesting input from other departments and the town’s information officer, Amy Paulson.

Staff noted that the MACC fall conference (Oct. 25, Devens) includes sessions linking conservation and affordable housing and encouraged members to register through the town at the member rate. Commissioners also discussed staffing the Harvest Fair table on Oct. 5 and agreed to coordinate availability by email.

No formal vote was taken; staff will return with sign concepts, a survey summary, and updates on the Ridge Hill post installation.