The Needham Conservation Commission learned at its Oct. 23 meeting that vandals removed 10–11 newly installed signposts at the Town Forest and Ridge Hill within days of installation. Commissioners also narrowed design preferences for a townwide trail-signage program and asked staff to produce revised mock-ups.

Tim (Conservation staff) told the commission that Premier Fence installed 84 posts, but about 11 posts were taken within 24–48 hours at the Town Forest. The thefts were not simple pull-outs: staff found holes backfilled with rocks and the posts removed from town property. “There were 84 posts put in originally, but there were like 2 or 3 nights where they were stolen,” Tim said; staff reported a police log was opened and vendor costs for replacement are substantial.

Commissioners then reviewed public feedback on several sign mock-ups. The group prioritized these elements: a QR code that links to a map, a color-coded directional arrow for trail color, and a concise label of the entrance name. Several commissioners said a small independent QR marker mounted beneath or beside a trail sign is preferable to printing the QR directly onto every directional sign so the code can be updated without replacing the entire sign.

Staff and the town’s sign vendor options will return to the commission with 10–15 revised mock-ups that reflect the group’s preferences. Commissioners noted the immediate need to secure replacement posts and asked staff to explore storage, trail cameras and coordination with police. The commission scheduled further discussion at its Nov. 13 meeting.