Andre Desjardins

The Merriam Woods Management Plan provides comprehensive guidance for the sustainable, long-term conservation and protection of the Merriam Woods property, managed by the Woodstock Conservation Commission. It focuses on maintaining the land as open space, preserving its forest and agricultural resources, and ensuring public accessibility for allowed recreational uses. Key priorities include protecting natural resources, safeguarding threatened, endangered, and sensitive species, actively managing invasive species, and establishing regulations for public activities such as hiking, hunting, and climbing, all while promoting responsible land stewardship through a Forestry Stewardship Plan.

The meeting will address agenda items requested by residents, specifically focusing on the potential expansion of Camp Maple Haven and associated water and sewer rates. The board will also cover old and other business brought forth by members and provide time for public participation on agenda items.

The Planning Board discussed updates from various sub-committees, including earth excavation, floodplain, masterplan, and subdivision ordinance coordination. The board reviewed an excavation permit application, providing guidance on missing requirements such as bond and abutters payment, and explained the definition of incidental excavation. A property owner's inquiry regarding the subdivision of land at 137 Paradise Road was addressed. Public participation included a concern about a blocked right-of-way. The board also decided to send a notice to Vegetation Control Services and the Electric Coop requesting that no herbicides be used within the town.

The Planning Board discussed updates regarding several local ordinances, including progress on the Short-Term Rental Ordinance and wastewater treatment plant staffing and copper limit compliance. Various sub-committees provided reports on their progress, particularly regarding the Subdivision Ordinance. A representative from Verdantas presented a preliminary subdivision proposal for a project on Rocks Village Road, highlighting concerns regarding road standards, driveway access, and steep slope grading. The Board formally adopted their Rules of Procedure and held an election of officers. Other business included receiving updates on a completed telecommunications tower project, reviewing construction notices from Caulder Construction, and noting upcoming professional development opportunities for Board members.

The Commission discussed several administrative and project-related items, including public input on a climbing appendix for the management plan, reports from a conservation conference, and coordination with NH Audubon regarding peregrine falcon cliff closures at Merriam Woods. The commission also addressed a proposal from the Lincoln-Woodstock Rotary to plant milkweed and reviewed correspondence with a forester regarding the Merriam Woods Forestry Plan. Plans were initiated to schedule a consultation with the forester for budgeting and project timeline development, with specific concerns regarding stream protection, seasonal work limitations, and potential grant funding.