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Neighbors urge protection of mature forest and wildlife as Conservation Commission reviews Wallace Road plan
Summary
Multiple abutters and conservation advocates told the Conservation Commission the Wallace Road parcel is a key habitat corridor, citing decades of species observations and urging deeded buffers or conservation easements to protect oaks, pines, and watercourses.
Residents and conservation advocates urged the Bedford Conservation Commission on May 26 to consider the parcel’s broader ecological role beyond mapped wetlands when reviewing Potter Properties’ proposed subdivision at 410 Wallace Road.
John Strampfer, an abutter of 32 years, told the Commission the area contains extensive wildlife and that clearing for roads and houses would ‘‘dramatically reduce or lose’’ the natural buffer. He and other speakers cited local species counts and ecological literature asserting the importance of mature oaks and large pines for insects, birds and mammals. Several residents submitted written comments to the Commission in advance of the meeting and summarized them aloud.
Other commenters emphasized connected habitat functions for foraging, nesting and overwintering; Commission members repeatedly raised Lot 5 as a focal point for potential fragmentation. Commission staff noted that while the state regulates wetland impacts, the Commission may ask the Planning Board to consider deed restrictions or conservation easements as local mitigation. The applicant said he is open to discussing deed restrictions on the back portion of Lot 5 but also explained that eliminating lots can affect project economics that fund infrastructure.
Residents pressed for clearer restoration or mitigation commitments if the project proceeds and urged use of conservation tools to secure long‑term protection of key areas. The Commission considered those concerns when drafting the comment letter to NHDES and when voting on its advisory position to the Planning Board.
The Commission’s next steps include finalizing NHDES comments and forwarding its advisory motion and proposed conditions to the Planning Board for their forthcoming review.
