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Commission debates 'forever wild' designation, buffers and permitted uses for Town Forest
Summary
Commission members reviewed a 2023 ecological assessment recommending at least one area be left 'forever wild,' discussed 100–200-foot buffers around sensitive areas, and considered permitted uses such as biking, hunting and low-impact motorized access under town direction.
Members referenced a 2023 ecological assessment that recommended one area of the forest remain "forever wild," and discussed how that recommendation would interact with a conservation easement and a separate Management Plan.
Craig Privett told the commission that UVLT prefers a baseline easement that provides durable, minimum protections and that a more detailed, changeable Management Plan could set stricter rules for particular areas (for example, a 100-foot buffer for general 'forever wild' areas and a 200-foot buffer around vernal ponds). Members discussed that certain recreational activities — including mountain biking and, with Town permission, hunting or limited low-impact motorized uses like snowmobiles — could be allowed in parts of the forest while more sensitive locations are protected.
Members asked how the trust makes buffer zones obvious to the public; Privett said the trust uses signage, reports and maps and will provide examples. The commission also noted that enforcement generally involves reporting violations to authorized enforcers and, if necessary, litigation to defend the easement.
