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Committee told cleared area at Tree Farm Landing is new well site; reforestation planned afterward
Summary
Conservation Agent Matt Penella said Water Department Superintendent Chris Veracka told him the recently cleared area at Tree Farm Landing is the town's new well location and will include a road to the pond; Penella said much of the area may be allowed to reforest after installation, and the committee discussed timing and implications.
Conservation Agent Matt Penella told the Open Space Committee that he had spoken with Chris Veracka, the Water Department superintendent, who said "the cleared area is the new well location, which will have a road connecting the pond to the well site." Committee members asked when installation would begin; Penella said it will likely start as soon as possible and that the earlier-than-expected clearing was likely done for well-site testing.
Penella said the Conservation Department expects much of the cleared area will be allowed to reforest after the well installation is complete. Members raised concerns about the timing and scope of clearing and whether conservation protections would apply. Penella said applicability of town bylaws will depend on the extent of proposed clearing and that permits or reviews could be required based on project scope.
The committee also discussed a neighboring parcel owned by the Sisters of Divine Providence that is currently up for auction; Penella said the department hopes a buyer will leave much of the forest intact. No formal vote or binding direction on the well site or adjacent auction parcel was taken at the meeting; staff said they will follow up with relevant departments and report back.
