Townsend Conservation Commission continues wetland hearing, advances Harbor Pond restoration

TOWNSEND -- May 27, 2026, Townsend Conservation Commission continues disputed wetland permit amid abutter complaints and hears invasive-species removal plan for Harbor Pond corridor. The commission voted 4-0 at its May 27 meeting to continue Notice of Intent DEP No. 308-0730 for the Zero Brookline Road property to June 24, after abutters at 201 Brookline Street submitted a seven-point letter questioning whether clearing, access road construction, cabin work, and a stone foundation were permitted under the Wetland Protection Act. Engineer Frank, appearing via Zoom, said he would submit responses, including DEP, by June 5. In a separate discussion, Bill of both Townsend Historic Society and Squannacook Greenways introduced Shalomia of the newly formed Indigenous Landscapes Initiative, who outlined a long-term plan to remove bittersweet, barberry, invasive honeysuckle, and phragmites from roughly 1,200 to 1,800 feet of rail trail along Harbor Pond, funded in part by a Nashua River Wild and Scenic Stewardship Council grant. A formal NOI covering that work, plus a tight tank and tree-replacement plan for 72 Main Street, is expected before the commission by June 24. Any penalty for the original unpermitted tree cutting at the Historic Society property remains unresolved.