Board of Health reports no EEE or arbovirus cases; reviews water tests and railroad vegetation spraying near Sawyers Pond

Hubbardston — At its June 24 meeting, the Board of Health reported there are no confirmed Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) or other arbovirus cases in town, discussed local water testing results and reviewed correspondence about railroad vegetation control near Sawyers Pond.

A board member reported no EEE or arbovirus cases and reminded residents that ticks and mosquitoes are active; one board member noted a recent personal tick bite with a bull's‑eye rash and advised vigilance. Board members said they will forward surveillance emails and lab results to the full board for awareness.

The board reviewed water testing for local recreational waters: recent Pinecress pond results showed low E. coli counts (reported as well under advisory limits); members noted the pond had three years of strong results that supported a reduced testing frequency. Members said the lab or testing contractor posts signage promptly if elevated results appear.

The board also discussed a response from Providence and Worcester Railroad on vegetation control adjacent to Sawyers Pond. The railroad reported a standard spray pattern limited to 10 feet on either side of the track centerline and that only Commonwealth‑approved products for wetland buffers and water supply areas would be used. Members asked that the railroad further narrow the spray zone near the pond because people fish there; railroad staff indicated they would verify the delineation on a site visit.

Board members asked staff to circulate the DCR central‑region sampling reports (June 11–18) and to follow up as needed on any permit or testing items.