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Vice chair pushes for independent soil testing at Vernon Family Farm after email raises impartiality concerns
Summary
Vice Chair C. Shanelaris argued the Vernon Family Farm easement requires scientifically based soil testing and moved that the commission seek UNH/NRCS assistance to issue an RFP for independent testing; the motion passed with the chair recused.
The Newfields Conservation Commission voted July 20 to ask UNH or the U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service to help the panel develop an RFP for independent soil testing at Vernon Family Farm, after concerns that the farm's parking and events may be harming soil health.
"The management and control of this conservation easement shall vest with the Newfields Conservation Commission," Vice Chair C. Shanelaris said while urging testing and enforcement in line with easement language that references UNH and NRCS practices. She said the commission has a legal and fiduciary duty to ensure approved uses do not cause environmental harm.
Shanelaris read correspondence and historical meeting notes indicating the Vernons were previously required to submit a management plan that referenced soil testing. She argued that observation alone is insufficient and cited the farm's claim of 'regenerative farming' as a reason to establish a soil-health baseline: "Because regenerative farming is defined by soil health, soil testing is essential to substantiate that claim." (C. Shanelaris)
Public commenters backed an independent review. "I recommend the Commission put out an RFP for soil testing, you hire it but [VFF] has to bear the cost," said M. Sununu, who identified himself as a member of a regional resort family and described similar processes used in his operations.
After discussion about scope and who would pay for testing, C. Shanelaris moved and C. McDade seconded a motion "to reach out to UNH and/or NRCS for resources to issue an RFP and assess what we find from that investigation." The motion passed with all in favor; Chair T. Rettburg was recused from the vote.
Why it matters: Commissioners said the farm regularly hosts events that may generate cumulative impacts (one commissioner cited "on average 75 cars being parked for up to 50 events annually") and that a scientifically based plan is necessary to demonstrate compliance with easement terms and protect the town from potential cleanup liabilities.
Next steps: The commission agreed to contact UNH and NRCS to help craft an RFP, then decide how to proceed based on consultant findings.
