Matthew Casparius

The commission reviewed a Shoreland Water Quality Protection Act permit application and discussed the use of silt fences and phosphorus limitations. Approvals were granted for an increased budget for the annual seedling giveaway and for the purchase of trail markers for town properties. Discussions were held regarding signage for upcoming work at the Fields Farm property, potential wetland buffer ordinance amendments, invasive species management at the Sklar property, and a forest woodland examination. Additional topics included cyanobacteria mitigation in Baboosic Lake, an informational letter concerning well contamination, status updates on town forests, and the potential creation of a commission newsletter.

The subcommittee discussed updates from the Merrimack Conservation Commission meeting regarding the Sklar Master Plan, including plans to seek Town Council approval to manage two parcels as one park, with a meeting scheduled for January 22nd. Other business involved reviewing potential trail modifications based on wildlife guidelines, though changes affecting river access trails were postponed until spring. Updates were provided on the status of receiving an invasives management plan and natural resources inventory from the forester. Additionally, the subcommittee installed new "No Motorized Vehicle" signs and discussed raising the issue of potentially improving the boat ramp or renaming it as a canoe launch at the town council meeting. Further discussions covered trail name plaques and follow-up actions regarding the park pamphlet.

Key discussions during the meeting included the Town Manager's report, noting the successful effort to prevent the Ice Detention Center from being located in Merrimack, and providing information about the Community Choice Aggregation Plan opt-out program and an upcoming information session. The Council approved Life Scout James Riley's Eagle Scout project to rebuild a bridge at Horse Hill Nature Preserve. An appointment was made to the Library Board of Trustees for an Alternate Trustee member. The Council also reviewed and approved amendments to the Invasive Species Committee's proposed Bylaws, and subsequently approved the committee's proposed Town of Merrimack Comprehensive Invasive Species Management Plan. A second quarter financial review indicated that the town is in good financial shape, despite some areas like Highway Overtime being over budget due to snowstorms. The Council finalized motions and article assignments for the upcoming 2026 Deliberative Session. Finally, minutes from several previous meetings in January and February 2026 were reviewed and approved, with amendments made to some. Councilor M. Murphy announced she would not seek re-election.

This Comprehensive Invasive Species Management Plan provides a roadmap for the Town of Merrimack to address the growing threat of invasive plant species. It outlines a multi-tiered strategy focused on Prevention, Early Detection & Rapid Response (EDRR), Control & Management, Restoration, and Community Engagement & Collaboration. The plan aims to preserve and enhance natural communities, minimize adverse environmental and economic effects, protect public health, and foster ecological stewardship and resilience for future generations.

The meeting covered several new business items, including the approval of an Eagle Scout project proposal from James Riley to repair the Blodgett Hill Bridge at the Horse Hill Nature Preserve, with detailed material costs and project timelines discussed. The commission also conducted a conceptual review for Conote, LLC regarding an upcoming 5-lot subdivision plan, addressing concerns about lot configuration, road paving, and wetland buffers. A new catch-phrase, "Protecting Natural Spaces, Enriching Our Community," was adopted by consensus. Discussions regarding other items of concern involved the rising cost of seedling crops for future events, the potential engagement of a forestry expert for the Sklar property without a formal bidding process, the need for a mowing plan for the Sklar property, and updates on activities at Grater Woods and Fields Farm properties. The session concluded with discussions and actions taken during a non-public session concerning real property acquisition.