Sandown conservation panel finalizes May 2 fishing derby logistics, discusses forming 'Friends of Sandown' nonprofit

Colleen Olsen told the commission Thursday that the annual Sandown fishing derby is set for May 2, asking volunteers to arrive early and outlining tasks for parking, registration and fish weigh-in. "Kids will begin arriving around 7AM with the fishing starting at 07:30," Olsen said; she also confirmed fish delivery, trophies and T-shirts are in hand and a handicap-accessible porta-potty is scheduled for May 1.

Members assigned tasks for setup (tables and canopies), asked volunteers to pick up worms and supplies, and confirmed police detail and registration handling. Colleen asked who could pick up the guest speaker; volunteers agreed to coordinate. The commission estimated 20–30 children may be registered as of the meeting and agreed to finalize logistics based on weather and registration numbers.

The group also discussed fundraising limitations for town bodies and the possible formation of a companion nonprofit. The Chair noted that many corporate donors request proof of 501(c)(3) status and said, "As a town entity, we can't accept a lot of donations. But if we were a 501(c)(3) group, we could accept donations." Commissioners asked staff to research options and consider whether a "Friends of Sandown Conservation" nonprofit would ease acceptance of larger gifts for event supplies and conservation projects.

Next steps: Colleen and volunteers will finalize event setup, a volunteer will collect worms and supplies, and staff will look into the nonprofit option and report back to the commission; the derby is scheduled for May 2 with registration and onsite tasks to be handled by commissioners and volunteers.