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Conservation panel seeks clarity from SPNHF on Bacon Ledges access and fire policy
Summary
At its Jan. 27 meeting, the Stoddard Conservation Commission discussed outreach to SPNHF about clearing Bacon Ledges for views, access limitations at Trout Pond, and whether fire policy differs on permanently protected 'forever wild' parcels; staff will bring maps and pursue a management plan.
The Stoddard Conservation Commission on Jan. 27 discussed next steps for managing Bacon Ledges and adjacent conservation parcels held by SPNHF.
Aaron Bryer, a member of the commission, said he had called two contacts (Wendy and Steve) with no response and asked that the commission pursue contact with SPNHF. Glenn Stan reported he spoke with Ilassa Sergeant, who the commission was told is the new manager for SPNHF properties that include Pierce and Sweetwater; Sergeant wants to meet with the commission in May to discuss how those lands should be managed. Commissioners noted Trout Pond is owned by SPNHF, not the town, and that the access road to Trout Pond currently cannot accommodate fire equipment and will need maintenance to improve emergency access.
Jason Kovarik agreed to bring maps and paperwork to the Feb. meeting so the group can formalize a written management plan for commission-controlled and jointly managed properties. Aaron Bryer raised a procedural question about whether the town’s fire response policy differs when a fire occurs on parcels designated as permanently protected or “forever wild” under SPNHF stewardship; the commission recorded the question for follow-up but did not resolve it at the meeting.
No formal vote was taken on land-management policy; the commission set staff follow-up: schedule the May meeting with the SPNHF property manager and prepare maps and a draft management plan for the Feb. meeting.
