WESTFORD CENTER — Volunteer cleanup and harvesting efforts at Hill Orchard have helped to maintain the town-owned property in recent months, as the Conservation Commission considers what additional maintenance work needs to be done.
During the Oct. 28 meeting, the Conservation Commission discussed updates on volunteer activities conducted throughout August, September and October, including produce harvesting, food donations and a large-scale cleanup involving local students.
An informal volunteer group, referred to during the meeting as Friends of Hill Orchard, organized regular work sessions throughout August and September.
According to the update, volunteers participated in approximately two cleanup sessions each week, with an average of five to six participants per session.
The group harvested available fruit, and then the produce was distributed to local organizations.
Volunteers also helped coordinate the cleaning, transportation, and delivery of harvested produce to food assistance organizations.
While the group was able to harvest some of the orchard’s fruit, volunteers reported that they were unable to harvest all available varieties, including apples and pears.
The restoration effort received additional assistance in October when approximately 60 students from Nashoba Valley Technical High School participated in a cleanup at the property.
Students collected fallen branches and fruit, consolidated debris, and cleaned buildings on the orchard grounds.
The students’ contributions helped to improve the conditions at the property.
The commission’s attention is now turning toward maintenance needs and potential improvements before the next growing season. One area under consideration is soil testing to evaluate both environmental conditions and agricultural productivity.
Commissioners discussed the possibility of testing for lead, arsenic, and other substances associated with historical agricultural use, along with evaluating soil health and potential amendments.
The commission also discussed the potential cost of collecting and analyzing soil samples, with preliminary estimates suggesting the work could cost “a couple thousand dollars.”
Tree maintenance was another concern raised during the meeting. The commission discussed whether to hire professionals to prune the trees or train volunteers to help with future maintenance. Professional pruning could require additional funding, while volunteer training could create an opportunity for continued community involvement in orchard maintenance.
The discussion highlighted both the progress made through community volunteer efforts and the additional work that may be needed to support the orchard’s long-term health and productivity.
