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Wilbraham conservation panel seeks volunteers for local committees and reviews Red Bridge dam access
Summary
The Commission approved April 27 minutes, asked commissioners to volunteer for a vacant seat on the Community Preservation Committee and to attend Open Space Committee meetings, and discussed efforts to reopen access near the collapsed Red Bridge powerhouse where DCR property remains closed.
At its May 18 meeting the Wilbraham Conservation Commission approved the April 27, 2026 minutes and discussed other business including filling a vacancy on the Community Preservation Committee and attending Open Space Committee meetings. Chairman Christopher Brown said the vacancy follows Stoughton Smead's resignation and asked for volunteers, suggesting the duties could be split among two commissioners.
Brown also updated the Commission on the collapsed Red Bridge powerhouse. He said the powerhouse collapsed three years ago, which led to closure of adjacent land owned or managed by the entity the minutes refer to as “DCR.” Brown said Keith Davies of C4R contacted him seeking assistance to gain access; Brown contacted the property owner's chief engineer, who visited the site and will coordinate with DCR to determine whether the area can be reopened. He said he will keep the Commission advised.
Member James Coletta moved to approve the April 27, 2026 minutes as discussed and amended; James Knittel seconded. The motion carried with votes in favor from Christopher Brown, James Coletta, Robert McMaster, James Knittel and Jim Murphy.
The Commission scheduled its next meeting for June 8, 2026 at 6:30 PM and adjourned at 7:45 PM.
