WESTFORD CENTER — The Conservation Commission announced Wednesday that longtime member Marilyn Frank has stepped down after 24 years of service, marking the end of more than two decades of volunteer leadership.
Also during the July 8 meeting, commissioners approved several environmental projects and discussed improvements to conservation area signage.
Chair Margaret Wheeler opened the meeting by announcing Frank’s resignation from the commission, thanking her for her years of dedication to protecting Westford’s natural resources.
Wheeler said Frank had served on the commission for 24 years and also represented the board on the Community Preservation Committee as the Vice President, helping guide conservation initiatives and land preservation efforts throughout the town. Commissioners expressed their appreciation for Frank’s service and the experience she brought to the board.
Frank’s departure leaves a vacancy on the seven-member commission for a term expiring June 26, 2028. Residents interested in serving are encouraged to submit a volunteer activity form through the town’s website. Commissioners expect to begin reviewing applications and interviewing candidates in the coming weeks before recommending a replacement.
Butter Brook Culvert The commission also approved an order of conditions for repairs to the Colonial Drive culvert over Butter Brook. The project includes structural repairs to the aging culvert while protecting nearby wetlands through erosion and sediment controls. Construction is expected to be completed this fall before winter weather, with commissioners noting the work will improve the long-term stability of the crossing while minimizing environmental impacts.
Stony Brook Bridge Rehab Members also unanimously approved a license agreement allowing the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and its contractor temporary access to approximately 1,800 square feet of conservation land during rehabilitation of the Stony Brook Bridge.
The agreement permits temporary construction access, installation of erosion controls, limited vegetation trimming and restoration of disturbed areas after work is completed.
Hazardous Tree Removal The board approved a request from the owners of 10 Rolling Meadow Lane to remove several hazardous trees within the wetland buffer zone following a site visit. Commissioners determined the trees posed a safety risk because they leaned toward the home and showed signs of decline. The approval requires the property owners to retain portions of some tree trunks for wildlife habitat, where practical and restore disturbed areas after the work is completed.
Forge Pond invasives Commissioners also approved a request from the Friends of Forge Pond to continue removing invasive water chestnut plants from Forge Pond. Volunteers will remove the invasive species as part of the group’s ongoing effort to improve water quality and protect native habitat.
Updated Signage Commissioners also discussed updating signs at several conservation areas throughout town. Proposed changes include revised rules, updated operating hours, English and Spanish text, improved maps showing public access points and reminders prohibiting motorized vehicles where they are not allowed. Staff will prepare draft sign designs for review at a future meeting.
The focus is on habitat protection Members also decided not to pursue a policy allowing cremated human remains to be scattered on conservation land after reviewing information from the Health Department and Cemetery Commission. Commissioners agreed conservation properties should remain focused on habitat protection and passive recreation.
