The Conservation Commission is seeking two volunteers to fill current vacancies. The Commission is the local authority for the protection of Southborough's natural resources and advises other boards and departments on related conservation issues. The Commission is charged with administering the MA Wetlands Protection Act, Southborough Wetlands Bylaw, Southborough Stormwater & Erosion Control Bylaw and overseeing the management of town owned open space and passive recreational areas.
While primarily a permitting board, the Commission is also charged with management of properties owned by the Conservation Commission or protected with a Conservation Restriction, such as Breakneck Hill Conservation Land & Town Forest (with daily oversight and management provided by Stewardship Committee), Southborough Golf Course, Halloran Property, and many more. As a permitting board, the Commission reviews proposed work near or within wetland resource areas for compliance with state and local wetlands regulations and projects applicable under our Stormwater bylaw to control stormwater and erosion during construction.
No experience is necessary to serve on the Commission as long as volunteers have a willingness to learn current regulations and practices. We do ask that any volunteers be willing to attend a free Orientation for Conservation Commissioners provided by the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissioners (MACC). Regular attendance at Commission meetings is expected and meetings are typically held on Thursdays at 7pm every three weeks. Conservation Commission meetings are currently held on Zoom, but prospective volunteers should be able to attend in person meetings if required.
To apply, please submit a volunteer application and attend an upcoming Conservation Commission meeting (9/14, 10/5, 10/26) for a brief interview so that the Commission may make an appropriate recommendation, to the Select Board for appointment. For further information on the Conservation Commission please visit our website or contact the Conservation Agent, Melissa Danza, at mdanza@southboroughma.com or 508-281-8984.