Windham conservation panel considers beekeeping rules for town conservation land

The Windham Conservation Commission on Feb. 12 considered whether to allow beekeeping on conservation properties and discussed rules, placement and community education.

Christopher Polychronopoulos ("Polly"), the beekeeper who checks the town hives, reported that all but one hive remain active at sites including Golden Meadow and Campbell Farm. Chair Michael Specian asked the commission whether it wanted bees on conservation land. Mark Wimmer said he supports allowing beekeeping but that the current hives should be moved. Commissioner Lisa Ferrisi said the commission needs to set limits on the number of hives and rules for their locations to balance pollination benefits with public use of the properties.

Commissioners noted that spreading hives across multiple sites improves pollination benefits; they also said the town should increase public education on beekeeping practices. Chair Specian said he will invite Chris Polychronopoulos to a future meeting to discuss details and explore library‑based education opportunities. Vice Chair Wayne Morris said he will discuss opening the Landry easement with property owner Jeffery Landry to determine whether that easement could host hives.

No formal rules or limits were adopted at the Feb. 12 meeting; commissioners directed staff to arrange a conversation with the beekeeper and to research options for creating a written policy for hive placement and permitted numbers.