Open space site walk set for May 7; committee lists spring events and volunteer trainings

The Simsbury Open Space Committee set a site walk for May 7 and discussed coordinating invitations to other boards for that field visit. Committee members noted the site walk will replace the May work group meeting and that Britney in the town manager's office will handle scheduling and notices.

Committee members described the site walk as an opportunity for representatives from the Open Space Committee, the Culture, Parks and Recreation Commission, the Conservation Commission, the Board of Selectmen and staff to inspect parcels under consideration (mentioned parcels include the Metairn/Meadowood property and nearby lands). Members asked staff to ensure the correct land‑use officials receive invitations and to confirm parking and logistics.

The committee also publicized upcoming volunteer and public events: an invasive plant identification and removal training on April 19 at the Apple Barn (9 a.m. to 11 a.m.), a bush removal volunteer day on April 26 at Onion Mountain (9 a.m. to 11 a.m.), a community cleanup day on May 3 (8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.), and a film screening at the library April 23. Members noted volunteer opportunities are listed on the committee and land trust websites.

On the arboretum item members discussed a submitted application (Trinity) and plans for cataloging plants at Schultz Park. Karen will contact Michelle Jenks of the beautification committee to coordinate on signage and plant inventories for the arboretum project.

The committee asked staff to confirm the May 7 site walk scheduling with Britney in the town manager's office and to circulate logistics and invitations to the boards expected to attend.