2011-09-27 CONCOM-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES – LEXINGTON CONSERVATION COMMISSION September 27, 2011 Commissioners present: Joyce Miller, Dick Wolk, David Langseth, Stew Kennedy, Phil Hamilton, Charlie Wyman Commissioners Absent: Duke Bitsko Others present: Karen Mullins, Conservation Administrator; Emily Schadler, Conservation Assistant; Members of the Lexington Conservation Stewards Chair Joyce Miller opened the meeting at 7:35 pm in the Legion Room, Cary Memorial Building 7:35 pm Informal: 10 Grove Street – Goat Use of Conservation Land for Grazing Mr. and Mrs. Beaudett of 10 Grove Street explained that they are procuring 2 dwarf goats that they would like to walk on conservation land to graze, primarily Chiesa Farm. The Beaudetts explained that the goats would always be leashed and supervised, that they do not pull plants up by the roots but rather crop them at ground level, and that they are not aggressive. The Commission agreed to permit the Beaudetts to graze the goats on a leash at Chiesa Farm for 1 year, with a requirement that they check in with the Commission after 1 year to request permission to continue. The Commission asked that the Beaudetts speak with Conservation Staff if they are interested in exploring other conservation areas that may be an option to graze. The Commission also expressed interest in having the goats eat invasive plants and poison ivy if possible. 7:50 pm Informal: Conservation land encroachment at Lower Vine Brook CA: 14 Fairfield Drive Mr. and Mrs. Beander of 14 Fairfield Drive, represented by _____, met with the Commission to discuss encroachment in the form of lawn and landscaping maintenance on a conservation parcel abutting their property at 14 Fairfield Drive. The Beanders explained that this area has been maintained as such since before they purchased the property and possibly since the lot was established. The Beanders also suggested that there has been no detriment to the town or to natural habitat by having this area maintained as lawn. They also stated that failure to allow them to maintain it would decrease the value of their home. Comments from the Commissioners follow: Commissioners stated that as the owners and managers of conservation land, they have the obligation to not allow public land to be treated as private land. Commissioners felt that maintaining the Page 1 of 2