Henniker, NH Conservation Commission 2001 Minutes

Town of Henniker, New Hampshire

Conservation Commission

2001 Minutes

Minutes of the Henniker Conservation Commission

January 3, 2001 - 7:30 PM Town Hall

Commissioners Present: Holly Green (Chair), Roni Hardy, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Martha Sunderland and Pete Walker.

Also Present: Joan O’Connor and Selectmen, ex-officio: Rod Pimentel.

Items of Discussion:

1. Minutes

December 13, 2000 minutes approved with revisions. December 20, 2000 minutes approved as drafted.

2. Mail

A NH Dept. of Transportation (NHDOT) meeting is scheduled for Jan 10 at Bradford Town Hall to discuss upgrades to Rte 114 north of Henniker. Roni Hardy had received a message on her machine from NHDOT assuring that care would be taken when working adjacent to the Amey Brook wetlands areas. This call was in response to the Commission’s letter.

3. Natural Resources Inventory

Ann Poole’s draft report was discussed. Martha Sunderland reviewed the list of town-owned lands and conservation areas with Cindy Marsland at Town Hall. Pete Walker suggested substantive revisions - he will email them to Ann. The report will be ready in time for the Commission’s scheduled appearance before the Budget Committee on Jan 11 at 7PM at the Fire Station. The Commission needs to schedule a meeting with the Planning Board to coordinate the Natural Resources Inventory work with the Master Plan. (Holly Green suggested the Commission work at improving communication with all town boards.) Pete has arranged to have John Kanter of NH Fish and Game come to help on wildlife mapping. He has a couple of hours open in February. Martha will get a copy of the Zoning maps to give to Mark Mitch for a student intern to digitize. Denise Rico will take the aerial photos with wetlands delineated to Mark’s office for possible digitization.

4. Nonpoint Source Local Initiative Grant Application for French and Keyser Ponds

Mark has learned from Steve Couture at NH Dept. of Environmental Services(NHDES) that the Commission’s grant application was ranked #2 in the state and the approval letter should be coming soon.

5. Water withdrawal from Craney Pond

Mark discussed the pumping data supplied by Pats Peak. Martha reported Pats Peak had received verbal permission on Dec 6, 2000 from someone at DES to pump water from Craney Pond resulting in a drop of more than 1 inch in the lake level. Holly had checked the public record and reported Pats Peak requested a continuance of their appeal of the 401 Water Quality Certification on Dec 13, 2000. Holly will look into the process to file an appearance at this hearing.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:45 PM.

The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held at 7:30 PM at Town Hall on Wednesday, February 7, 2001.

Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico, Henniker Conservation Commission

Minutes of the Henniker Conservation Commission

February 7, 2001 - 7:30 PM Town Hall

Commissioners Present: Holly Green (Chair), Roni Hardy, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, and Martha Sunderland.

Also Present: Ron Burd.

Items of Discussion:

1. Dry Hydrant at French Pond

Mr. Ron Burd of Burd Engineering presented drawings and discussed the installation of a dry hydrant at the French Pond boat ramp owned by NH Fish and Game. The hydrant was required by the Henniker Planning Board as part of the approval conditions for the Crest Wood subdivision off Foster Hill Rd. Fire Chief - Ben Ayer, Town Administrator - Peter Flynn, and a representative of NH Fish and Game have reviewed the plans and were satisfied with the proposal. From a hydrant on shore, an 8 inch pipe will extend 50 feet into the pond, 4 feet below the surface. The most significant impact to the pond will be 35 feet of trenching in the bed to lay the pipe. Sedimentation issues were discussed. Mr. Burd indicated that in a lake with little water current, there really wasn’t a need to deploy sedimentation curtains while trenching. He said the disturbed sediments will settle back to the lake bed. He said he will submit a NH Dept. of Environmental Services (NHDES) Minimum Impact Expedited Wetland Permit Application within a couple of weeks.

2. Minutes

January 03, 2001 minutes approved as drafted.

3. Mail

A NH Dept. of Transportation (NHDOT) Dredge and Fill Permit for guardrail work for the entire portion of Rtes. 202/9 in Henniker was received on 01/22/01. It was reviewed and agreed to be satisfactory.

On 02/01/01 the Conservation Commission received a copy of a joint motion signed by attorneys for Pats Peak and the Wetlands Bureau to continue Pats Peak's appeal hearing before the Wetlands Council until 04/13/01.

4. Nonpoint Source Local Initiative Grant for French Pond Episode Assessment - Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP)

Mark Mitch submitted and discussed the QAPP report he compiled for the French Pond grant project. The report has been sent to NHDES for comments and the HCC commissioners should review it and submit suggestions within 2 weeks. NHDES will return the report to Mark for possible revision and then it will go to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for review. Within the next couple of weeks an organizational meeting will be scheduled at NHDES in Concord for the contract signing.

5. Natural Resources Inventory (NRI)

A meeting to discuss the NRI with the Henniker Planning Board (HPB) is being scheduled. Geoff Hirsch, Chairman of the HPB was contacted. Mark suggested we work closely with Mike Tardiff at the Central NH Regional Planning Commission (CNHRPC) who is overseeing Henniker’s Master Plan project. A map of “Sources of Excavation for Construction Supplies” will be needed (per conversation between Mark and Mike). The HCC needs to contact Ann Poole to request she prepare a scope of work and cost proposal for the second year of the NRI project. An intern at New England College will be working on the wildlife mapping and land use analysis mapping. Denise Rico is going to research the process the Warner Conservation Commission used to bring the GIS (Geographic Information System) to the public to assess the possibilities of doing the same in Henniker.

6. Public Relations for Town Voting and Town Meeting

The logistics for setting up a display table at the school on voting day were discussed. Hours for manning the table were agreed upon. Mark will present the HCC warrant article at Town Meeting.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:25 PM.

The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held at 7:30 PM at Town Hall on Wednesday, March 07, 2001.

Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico, Henniker Conservation Commission

Minutes of the Henniker Conservation Commission

March 7, 2001 - 7:30 PM Town Hall

Commissioners Present: Holly Green (Chair), Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Martha Sunderland and Pete Walker.

Also Present: Kris Stenberg, Evan Stenberg, Eric W. Hauptman, Christopher Danforth of Schauer Environmental Consultants (SEC), and Mike Tardiff and Laura Scott, both of the Central New Hampshire Regional Planning Commission (CNHRPC).

Items of Discussion:

1. Minimum Impact Expedited Wetlands Permit Application - Lot 355-X4

Chris Danforth (SEC) presented the information for the permit application made on behalf of Eric Hauptman (also present). The lot in question is a 3 lot subdivision with one proposed driveway installation that impacts wetlands. The total area of impact is 2961 square feet and will consist of 2 separate areas of 2-4 feet of fill with side slopes of 2:1 and (2)18” culverts, one at each area. The wetlands were flagged in November before snow cover. Denise Rico made a site visit on Sunday, March 4, 2001 and verified the measurements as shown on the plan. The Commission voted to approve the application.

2. Wetlands Issue at 51 Tanglewood Drive

Kris Stenberg described the history of a wetlands issue involving the adjacent neighbors. She believed a NH Dept. of Environmental Services (NHDES) Administrative Order of 1998 had not been satisfied. In that order the owners of 51 Tanglewood had been told to remove an area of sand fill and a section of a rock wall. In November, 2000 a shed was built in the back yard on what Ms. Stenberg believes to be the area of fill that should have been removed. After discussing the issue with Building Inspector, Peter Flynn, Ms. Stenberg learned an after-the-fact building permit had been approved by the Board of Selectmen but not awarded. Mr. Flynn had held it until the wetlands issue is resolved. The Commission decided to write a letter to Mr. Flynn describing the issue and another to NHDES inquiring on the status of the wetlands issues at 51 Tanglewood. Denise Rico will draft the letters.

3. Natural Resource Inventory (NRI) and Master Plan Coordination

Michael Tardiff and Laura Scott discussed the role of CNHRPC in the creation of Henniker’s updated Master Plan. Much of the discussion concerned strategies to incorporate the Commission’s NRI data into the natural resources section of the Master Plan. Mr. Tardiff and Ms. Scott believe the Commission’s NRI report will provide a more detailed accounting of natural resources than their organization could provide. They will be developing an “Existing Land Use” map that is expected to be completed by the end of May 2001 - the Commission will work closely with this process. A natural resources subcommittee will be organized later in the Master Plan process and the Commission will participate. The CNHRPC has developed a web site for the Henniker Master Plan at www.cnhrpc.org/henniker. Mark Mitch will contact Geoff Hirsch of the Planning Board to discuss future coordination efforts.

4. Ann Poole’s NRI-Year 2 Proposal

The Commission discussed the proposal and revisions were agreed upon. Ann Poole will be contacted after town meeting when the funding issue will be decided. Denise will notify her by email.

5. NRI

The Commission voted to spend approximately $100 to increase the RAM in the New England College computer where the NRI’s maps are being created using a geographic information system. There had been a problem executing a process necessary for the wildlife mapping.

6. French Pond Episode Assessment Project

Mark Mitch discussed the status of the grant award. The paperwork necessary to receive the grant was signed by town officials and submitted to NHDES. Approval from the Governors and Executive Councils is needed before the grant is official. No expenditures can be made until this approval is complete. Martha Sunderland set up a budget for the project. Mark just finished revising the QAPP (Quality Assurance Project Plan) and will resubmit it to NHDES for final approval. It will then go the US Environmental Protection Agency for review.

7. Minutes

The 02/07/01 minutes were approved with revisions.

8. Mail:

French Pond Dry Hydrant:

A Minimum Impact Expedited Wetlands permit application was received from Ron Burd. A copy of a letter from NHDES to Ron Burd was also received stating the expedited permit was reclassified to a standard application due to the lack of Conservation Commission approval. It was assumed the town clerk sent the extra copies to NHDES and put the other in the Commission’s box instead of holding all five copies for the Commission’s approval. The Commission reviewed the permit and voted to approve. Mark will contact Ron Burd to explain the mishap and to discuss what course of action Mr. Burd could now take.

9. Public Relations for Town Voting and Town Meeting

The logistics for setting up a display table at the school on voting day were discussed. Hours for manning the table were agreed upon. Mark will present the HCC warrant article at Town Meeting.

10. Other Business:

Reappointments and Elections of Commission Members:

Holly Green resigned as Chair due to family matters and Denise Rico agreed to fill the position. The Commission voted to approve the new Chair. Pete Walker and Martha Sunderland agreed to alternate with the minute-taking responsibilities.

The 3 year terms of Roni Hardy, Denise Rico, Martha Sunderland, and Pete Walker will end April 1, 2001. They all said they wish to serve another term and the Commission voted to approve each member’s reappointment.

Options to Reduce Lengthy Meetings:

The Commission decided to hold two meetings per month on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays and to begin these meetings at 7:00 PM. It is hoped that two meetings per month will greatly reduce the meeting lengths. Denise will check into availability of space.

The meeting was adjourned at 11:15 PM.

The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held at 7:00 PM at the Grange on Wednesday, March 21, 2001.

Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico, Henniker Conservation Commission

Minutes of Meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission

Held at Grange Hall

March 21, 2001 ‑ 7:00 PM

Commissioners Present: Holly Green, Roni Hardy, Denise Rico (Chair), Martha Sunderland, and Pete Walker.

Items of Discussion:

1. Minutes. The minutes to the 3/07/01 meeting were reviewed and approved with revisions.

2. Mail. A copy of the French Pond grant agreement was received and reviewed.

3. Natural Resources Inventory. Members reviewed Ann Poole’s proposal for Phase II of the Natural Resources Inventory and discussed additional items that it wished to include. A list was compiled which Martha will sort and circulate via e-mail. Ann is scheduled to attend the April 18 meeting to discuss the scope and how to proceed. Laura Scott of the Central New Hampshire Regional Planning Commission will also attend to discuss progress on the Master Plan update. Roni agreed to talk to Martha Taylor about the historical resources. Denise will communicate with Ann regarding revisions to the proposed scope of work.

4. Commissioners’ responsibilities. There was some discussion about who will take minutes at the meetings and no one seemed to have enough time to do it. It was agreed that the responsibility would alternate for now. Denise will look into getting administrative support and perhaps hiring a secretary to take minutes. She will also talk to Peter Flynn about moving our files to the Grange Hall so that they will be available during meetings.

5. Financial records. Martha informed the Commission that there is a problem with the way grant monies are allocated in the town's bookkeeping process resulting in monthly budget reports which will reflect a non-existent deficit. In order to keep track of how much we actually have in our budget she is keeping track of every receipt and will produce an accurate monthly budget report.

Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 P.M.

The next meeting of the Conservation Commission will be held on Wednesday, April 4, 2001 at Town Hall.

Respectfully submitted, Roni Hardy, Conservation Commission

Minutes of Meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission

Town Hall, April 4, 2001 - 7:00 PM

Henniker Conservation Commission (HCC) Members Present: Holly Green, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico (Chair), Martha Sunderland, and Pete Walker.

Also Present: Rod Pimentel-Selectman ex officio, Michael French of the French Pond Association (FPA), and Danielle Patterson, Maria Shcherbyna, and Adam Roy -New England College (NEC) interns.

Items of Discussion:

1. French Pond Episode Assessment Project: Michael French was present to discuss details of the sampling project. He was asked for help in three areas: contacting landowners where sampling sites are located; recruiting volunteers; and consulting with Lou Hoitsma (FPA) to update the septic system report. Mark Mitch provided copies of the QAPP (Quality Assurance Project Plan) for FPA and HCC members. Mark explained sampling wouldn't begin until the EPA approved the QAPP which is expected within the next 2 weeks. A volunteer training session is scheduled for 10AM - 2PM, April 28, 2001 at the Grange. Martha Sunderland submitted for review a flier she compiled announcing the training session. Adam Roy, an NEC intern, will work on land use characterization in the French Pond watershed. Mark submitted invoices to Martha for equipment purchases.

2. Minutes. The minutes to the 3/21/01 meeting were reviewed and approved with revisions.

3. Mail. The Hauptman's expedited permit was approved by NH Dept. of Environmental Services - the extra copies go to the Planning Board and the Selectmen.

4. Natural Resources Inventory (NRI). Ann Poole's revised proposal for Phase II of the Natural Resources Inventory was reviewed. An update on the status of mapping was given by Mark Mitch and Denise Rico. The possibility of doing a public presentation of wildlife habitat mapping with John Kanter was discussed. A joint NRI planning [1]1meeting with Laura Scott of the Central NH Regional Planning Commission, Ann Poole, Henniker Planning Board members, and HCC members will held at 7PM April 18, 2001 at the Grange.

5. Other Business. Pats Peak's wetlands permit appeal was not scheduled for either of the next Wetlands Council or Water Council meetings. NH Dept. of Environmental Services (NHDES) has been in negotiations with Pats Peak concerning the appeal. The members of the HCC agree that NHDES should be keeping the HCC informed of these negotiations; a letter will be drafted to NHDES sta[1] ting this.

6. Minor Organizational Details. Denise spoke with Peter Flynn about acquiring someone to take and compile the minutes of the meetings. This would cost $12-$15/hour which is not in the HCC budget at present. It can be put it in next year's budget request. Denise also looked into a permanent meeting location where the files could be stored. She suggested waiting until it is decided if the Masonic building will be available.

Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 9:15 P.M.

The next meeting of the Conservation Commission will be held on Wednesday, April 18, 2001 at the Grange.

Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico, Henniker Conservation Commission

Minutes of Meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission

Grange Hall, April 18, 2001 - 7:00 PM

Henniker Conservation Commission (HCC) Members Present: Holly Green, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico (Chair), and Martha Sunderland.

Also Present: Laura Scott-Central NH Regional Planning Commission (CNHRPC), Judy Englander and Thea Braiterman - Henniker Planning Board (HPB), E. Ann Poole - Environmental Consultant.

Items of Discussion:

1. Natural Resources Inventory (NRI). Coordination of the NRI with the update of Henniker's Master Plan was discussed. Laura Scott presented CNHRPC documents outlining the proposed work on the "Conservation, Preservation and Open Space" chapter of the Master Plan and listing the GIS (Geographic Information System) map layers that exist for Henniker. She also presented other supporting documentation. Discussion centered around mapping issues and who would be responsible for what. Ann will serve as coordinator for the collection of the NRI information as it is compiled by various individuals or organizations and she will write the final report. Ann will revise her proposal to incorporate the issues discussed. The HCC will be part of the subcommittee to be assembled to work on the "Conservation, Preservation and Open Space" chapter which will tentatively begin in the Fall 2001.

2. Minutes. The minutes to the 4/4/01 meeting were reviewed and approved with revisions.

3. Mail. The French Pond dry hydrant dredge and fill wetlands permit was approved by NH Dept. of Environmental Services.

4. French Pond Episode Assessment Project: Martha mailed and posted flyers announcing the water sampling training on 4/28/01 at the Grange. Denise will make 500 copies to be attached to the Henniker Community School's Friday notice at a cost of approximately $30. Martha said Michael French of the French Pond Association contacted the property owners of sampling locations by phone. A letter will be sent out to follow up. The staff gauges will go in this weekend.

5. Other Business. Mark is interested in purchasing new aerials in a TIFF format for the NRI project at a cost of $150-200. Martha will check the budget and the HCC will discuss at the next meeting. Denise asked members to consider for discussion at the next meeting a procedure to follow up on past issues that remain unresolved.

Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 9:45 P.M.

The next meeting of the Conservation Commission will be held on Wednesday, May 2, 2001 at Town Hall.

Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico, Henniker Conservation Commission

Minutes of Meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission

Town Hall, May 2, 2001 - 7:00 PM

Henniker Conservation Commission Members Present: Denise Rico (Chair),

Holly Green, Mark Mitch, Pete Walker, Martha Sunderland

Items of Discussion:

7:15 - Review and approval of the minutes of the April 18th meeting

7:20 - New Mail:

- Warranty Deed for the Friends of Weare, Vincent Memorial Grove land donation; Denise will check with Town Hall about who should sign the document.

- Intents to cut list - three lots listed

- A copy of the Argus Champion article about the French Pond assessment was passed around

7:25 - French Pond Assessment Update

- Brief discussion of the volunteer scheduling for stream monitoring

- Discussed issues of runoff from the pig farm; Mark will talk with Steve Couture at DES regarding the history of this operation and past inspections. We will document the incident via our water samples and visual updates. It was stressed that the farmer had been very forthcoming about the incident and cooperative with the commission

- Discussed spending money on aerial photos.

- The next sampling date will be on or around May 19th.

8:00 - Natural Resources Inventory

- There is still no definite date for the soils map completion

- Pete will talk to John Kanter about having him or Ellen Snyder present their habitat identification method in a public forum in Henniker using our NRI map layers as the examples

- Pete reported that he has the FEMA maps for Henniker and he and Denise are looking into the most expeditious method of getting them scanned for use

- The commission agreed to write a letter of appreciation and give a small appreciation gift to Maria Shcherbyna, the NEC intern who did a great job completing several GIS layers for the NRI.

- The list of NRI responsibilities needs to have completion deadlines added to it. Denise will send around an email to pin those dates down.

- The commission discussed Ann Poole's new proposal. It was agreed that a letter would be sent to Ann clarifying what our expectations of her are and what our budget is.

8:45 - Other Business

- The twice monthly meeting schedule was discussed and it was agreed that it helps keep momentum going and allows for shorter meetings.

- Pete shared information about the possibility that the dam upstream of town will be considered for removal.

The next meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission will be held on Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 7:00 pm in Room 114-B of the New England College New Science Building.

Respectfully submitted, Martha Sunderland, Henniker Conservation Commission

Minutes of Meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission

New England College Science Building

May 16, 2001 - 7:00 PM

Henniker Conservation Commission (HCC) Members Present: Mark Mitch, Denise Rico (Chair), and Martha Sunderland

Also Present: John Margeson - Henniker Highway Department

Items of Discussion:

1. Culvert Replacement on Butter Road: John Margeson presented photos and an Expedited Wetlands permit application to replace a culvert on Butter Road. As the stream is perennial, he was advised to complete the Standard Dredge and Fill application which he will place in the HCC box at Town Hall. Martha has already done the site visit and will draft a short letter of support when the application is submitted.

2. Minutes: The minutes to the 5/02/01 meeting will be reviewed for approval at the next meeting.

3. Mail:

- An Intent to Cut (with no wetlands impact statement) from the Barletta Estate was reviewed. The plan showed a new logging road crossing a stream. Martha will send the standard HCC letter notifying the logger of the proper procedures for wetlands' impacts.

- An agenda for a 5/22/01 meeting to review the transportation chapter of the updated Master Plan was received. Denise will find out what time the meeting will be held.

4. French Pond Episode Assessment Project: Sampling will take place over the weekend. Arrangements for Mark's absence were discussed. Maria Colby will be coordinating the project from NEC. Martha will be running the field work. Pete is available for sampling. Denise will meet with Mark on 5/25 to review the data management.

5. Natural Resources Inventory (NRI): Ann Poole’s most recent revisions to her proposal were reviewed. Minor changes were suggested. Denise will contact her to incorporate the changes. Review for approval will be scheduled for the next meeting. Pete has contacted Sarah Pillsbury about providing digital map data for Source Water Protection and Gravel Well Analysis. Pete also contacted Ellen Synder about a public presentation of the wildlife mapping. The presentation should be scheduled after Mark returns in July.

6. Other Business:

- There is $1970.42 in the Conservation Fund. The authorization to roll over the yearly budget into a fund was approved in a warrant in 1988. The specific approval was spelled out in the RSA cited in the warrant article. Denise will check the Conservation Commission Handbook before reporting back to Peter Flynn.

- Pete reported the complaint about the land filling on Davison Rd to NH Dept of Environmental Services (NHDES) wetlands bureau.

- Denise supplied copies of documents pertaining to Henniker Crushed Stone to NHDES as requested.

- Brenda Wright of the Henniker Community School is looking for people to create a panel to debate an environmental issue for a fifth grade class.

Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 P.M.

The next meeting of the Conservation Commission will be held on Wednesday, June 6, 2001 at the Town Hall.

Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico, Henniker Conservation Commission

Minutes of Meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission

Town Hall, June 6, 2001 - 7:00 PM

Henniker Conservation Commission (HCC) Members Present: Denise Rico (Chair), Martha Sunderland, and Pete Walker.

Items of Discussion:

1. Minutes: The minutes to the 5/02/01 and 5/16/01 meeting were reviewed but not approved because there was not a quorum present.[1]i

2. Mail:

- An Intent to Cut (with no wetlands impact statement) from the Barletta Estate was reviewed again. A double culvert stream crossing was installed at the logging operation without the proper paperwork. Martha will draft a letter to NH Dept. of Environmental Services with copies going to the forester and the landowner.

- An Intent to Cut (with no wetlands impact statement) on tax lot 15 was reviewed. The standard HCC letter will be sent.

- An Intent to Cut (with no wetlands impact statement) on tax lot 139 was reviewed. The standard HCC letter will be sent.

3. Natural resources Inventory (NRI): [1]&Denise will send an email out requesting members approval for Ann Poole's revised proposal for the second year of the NRI.

4. French Pond Episode Assessment Project: Sampling will occur on Thursday, June 7.

5. West Henniker Paper Mill Dam removal: There was discussion about the recent Selectmen's meeting where Peter Flynn presented a program about removal of the dam and remediation of the paper mill site through the Brownfields program.

6. Other Business: HCC members will approach candidates to fill upcoming vacancies on the Commission.

Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 P.M.

The next meeting of the Conservation Commission will be held at 7PM on Wednesday, June 20, 2001 at the Grange Hall.

Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico. Henniker Conservation Commission

Minutes of Meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission

Grange Hall, June 20, 2001 - 7:00 PM

Henniker Conservation Commission (HCC) Members Present: Holly Green, Roni Hardy, Denise Rico (Chair), Martha Sunderland, and Pete Walker.

Also Present: Mark Moser of Moser Engineering

Items of Discussion:

1. Henniker Crushed Stone/Central NH Concrete (HCS/CC) Site: Mark Moser presented his revised plans for wetlands impacts and erosion control measures. As the plans are quite complicated, a site visit will be conducted. It will be scheduled as soon as feasible.

2. Minutes: The minutes to the 5/02/01, 5/16/01 and 6/06/01 meetings were approved.

3. Mail: The UNH Coop Extension sent copies of its new publications: Natural Resource Inventories: A Guide for NH Communities and Conservation Gr[1]èoups and a Identifying and Protecting NH's Significant Wildlife Habitat: A Guide for Towns and Conservation Groups. The Central NH Regional Planning Commission (CNHRPC) sent a grant application package for the 2001-2002 Transportation Enhancement Project. A copy of a letter from Pats Peak to Allyson Gourley, NH Dept. of Environmental Services (NHDES) Shoreland Protection Compliance, was received. It was a notification of the completion of tree plantings and a stone check dam at Craney Pond. A site visit will be scheduled in the upcoming week. There was more discussion regarding an Intent to Cut by the Barletta Estate on Rte. 114 north. A site visit by NHDES is scheduled for Friday, 6/23. Martha will draft a letter with HCC's concerns.

4. Natural Resources Inventory (NRI): Denise has contacted Ann Poole to notify her of the electronic mail approval of her proposal. Pete says the large format image to disk scanner is now functioning at NHDES - he will have the FEMA maps scanned for floodplain data. There was discussion about having Ellen Snyder and/or John Kanter offer a public presentation of Henniker's GIS data that was compiled following the method outlined in their Protecting NH's Significant Wildlife Habitat: A Guide for Towns and Conservation Groups. It was decided to wait until the fall for a public presentation but to consult with Ellen or John after the mapping is complete.

5. French Pond Episode Assessment Project: Sampling will occur on Saturday, June 30. There have been mixups with NHDES's billing for the lab sampling. There is also NHDES sampling data that is missing. Martha will work on straightening everything out.

6. Contoocook and North Branch Rivers Advisory Committee: Holly briefed the HCC about the June 19 meeting. She is now Henniker's representative to the advisory committee. She has asked for shoreland inventory data that may have been collected to add to Henniker's NRI.

7. Culvert Replacement on Butter Rd: The expedited wetlands permit application submitted by John Margeson was approved. The HCC had recommended he fill out a standard permit as the stream being crossed is perennial and doesn't qualify for an expedited application. He checked with NHDES and said they make exceptions for culvert replacements by municipalities; Denise verified this by phone with the NHDES Wetlands Bureau secretary.

8. Conservation, Preservation, and Open Space chapter of Henniker's Master Plan: The CNHRPC schedule for subcommittee meetings was reviewed. It was agreed that the HCC members would alternate attendance at the meetings.

9. Other Business: The July 4 meeting was rescheduled to July 11; Denise will check for a space. Pete said he must resign from the Commission; he said he would consider being an alternate. Possibilities for recruiting new members were discussed. It was agreed that alternate members could vote when regular members are absent.

Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 P.M.

The next meeting of the Conservation Commission will be held at 7PM on Wednesday, July 11, 2001 at the Grange Hall. Subject to verification.

Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico, Henniker Conservation Commission

Henniker Conservation Commission Minutes

Grange Hall, July 11, 2001 - 7:00 PM

Henniker Conservation Commission Members Present: Denise Rico (Chair), Holly Green, Martha Sunderland

Guests Present: Kris Blomback, Roy and Ramona Urbain

Meeting Called to order at 7:00 PM

Items of Discussion:

Pat’s Peak Wetland Application: Kris presented plans for widening a ski trail with wetlands impacts in two spots. He also had a completed set of Expedited Dredge and Fill applications for this work. A site visit was scheduled for July 12th at 5:30 PM. Approval will be done by mail as we did not have a quorum and the next meeting isn’t until August. If approved, the application will be signed early next week.

Red Maple Plantings at Craney Pond: Kris agreed to move the Acer platenoides to the base lodge area and replant with Acer rubrum at Craney Pond. He requested that he be allowed to do the transplanting in the Fall when there will be a better chance for survival of the trees. Those present agreed that this makes sense.

Review of Minutes: Those present reviewed minutes of the previous meeting and made minor changes. Approval will be at the August meeting.

New Mail:

-Updated plans for the Henniker Crushed Stone site and the Pollution Prevention Plan for the site were received. Denise reviewed the site plan and reported that the changes were minor and all were observed on our site visit.

-An after-the-fact NH Dept. of Environmental Services (DES) permit approval letter for Henniker Crushed Stone was received.

-A complete forestry notification letter for the Rt. 114 Barletta forestry operation was received from DES. .

Henniker Crushed Stone Letter: It was agreed that the comment letter drafted after the site visit would be sent even though the permit had already been approved.

Master Plan Meeting: Denise attended the meeting and gave feedback on the presentation given by Laura Scott of the Central NH regional Planning Commission. The first draft will be on line in 2 weeks and the next meeting is in 3 weeks.

French Pond Episode Assessment Project: All results of water sampling are in and the next sampling will be July 14th.

Other Business: DES had contacted Denise about a letter that is being sent to the owners of the Davison Road fill site. We will get a copy when it goes out.

Meeting Adjourned at 8:15 PM

The next meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission will be held on Wednesday, August 1, 2001 at 7:00 PM in the Town Hall.

Respectfully submitted, Martha Sunderland, Henniker Conservation Commission

Henniker Conservation Commission Minutes

Town Hall August 1, 2001 7:00 PM

Henniker Conservation Commission Members Present: Denise Rico (Chair), Mark Mitch, Martha Sunderland

Guests Present: Dawn Nelson, Ann Poole (Arr. 7:50)

Meeting Called to order at 7:00 PM

Items of Discussion:

Review of Minutes: Those present reviewed minutes of the previous meeting and made minor changes. Approval will be at a later meeting when we have a quorum.

New Mail:

-July 16th letter from NH Dept. of Environmental Services to Linda Weston explaining that she needs to excavate to hydric soils and then submit photos of the work done. Commission will inquire if the shed must be removed or if that can stay. A copy of the letter was faxed to Peter Flynn on 7/16.

-A resignation letter was received from David Marshall.

-A copy of the Minimum Impact Expedited permit for the Butter Hill Road culvert was received.

-Two draft chapters for the Master Plan were received from the Central NH Regional Planning Commission: Conservation (CNHRPC), Preservation and Open Space and Community Facilities.

French Pond: Mark and Martha met with the French Pond Association (FPA) on July 21st at their annual meeting to review the results to date. The FPA will work on updating their septic system survey.

Master Plan Meeting: Denise attended the meeting during which the Conservation, Preservation and Open Space chapter was discussed and edited. Mark had made comments on the draft which were also included. The next revision will be posted in about a week and the next meeting is scheduled for August 20th at 7 PM in the Town Hall.

Natural Resources Inventory: Ann Poole was present for this portion of the meeting. Denise had produced a number of maps based on the new wildlife habitat identification method. She will be able to do more mapping once she can overcome some computer obstacles. Denise will also be working with the CNHRPC on their mapping bugs. Some time was spent discussing how to deal with the lack of updated soils information. We discussed Ann’s role and clarified that the NRI should be a stand-alone document, not just part of the Master Plan. Ann will work on filling in the missing narrative portions from the first document. Ann will produce a draft outline of the final report for our review and the commission will try to get the mapping and data collection as complete as possible by September 1st.

Other Business: We discussed what is being done about the Davison Road fill site and the Old Concord Road drainage ditch. Mark will drive by the Old Concord Road site and report at the next meeting.

Meeting Adjourned at 9:15 PM

The next meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission will be held on Wednesday, August 15, 2001 at 7:00 PM, tentatively in the Grange Hall. (If there is a change in location it will be noted on the posted agenda)

Respectfully submitted, Martha Sunderland, Henniker Conservation Commission

Minutes of Meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission

Grange Hall

August 15, 2001 - 7:00 PM

Henniker Conservation Commission (HCC) Members Present: Holly Green, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico (Chair), and Martha Sunderland.

Also Present: Danielle Martin, Christopher McAllister, and Dawn Nelson.

1. Minimum Impact Expedited Permit Application - Lot 293D - Danielle Martin and Christopher McAllister were present to review the dredge and fill application and plans to construct a driveway to their new home on French Road. The proposed driveway will cross a wet area at its most narrow point on the lot, impacting approximately 1700 square feet of wetland. The application was approved by unanimous vote.

2. Eagle Scout Project for Ian Mazersky: Options were discussed for an Eagle Scout project.

3. Minutes: The 6/20/01 and 7/11/01 minutes were approved with revisions. The 8/01/01 minutes will be reviewed at the next meeting.

4. Mail:

- The Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests sent a notice of a conservation easement, dated December 29, 2000, by the Marshall Fund on Lots 759B and 755. The notice was received on August 10, 2001.

- NH Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) Wetlands Bureau's "Wetlands and Non-Site Specific Permit # 2001-01348" for the Butter Road culvert replacement by the Town of Henniker was received on August 10, 2001.

- NHDES Wetlands Bureau sent a "Notification of Project Reclassification" for Pats Peak's proposed dredge and fill work on a ski trail. The project "does not meet the rules for a 30-day expedited review" and "will be reviewed as a standard application". The notification was received on August 13, 2001.

- NHDES Wetlands Bureau sent a copy of a letter to Patenaude Properties RE: Wetlands Bureau Complaint File # 2001-01283, 7 Davison Road. The letter informs the landowner of a wetland present at the western side of the property and that further stockpiling of soil may require a "Site Specific Permit". The letter was received on August 3, 2001.

5. French Pond Episode Assessment Project: Routine sampling was done on August 15, 2001. All tributaries were dry, so sampling was done in the lake only. The cost of the French Pond project is creating a budget deficit that will be reconciled when monies are received from NHDES after the septic survey is complete and volunteer hours are submitted.

6. Conservation, Preservation, and Open Space Chapter of the Master Plan: The draft of the chapter was discussed. Denise will contact Joan O'Connor about providing information for the Solid Waste section. Martha, Mark, and Denise will attend the next subcommittee meeting. Mark will bring the old aerials that have wetlands drawn onto them and Martha will bring the associated wetlands' data that were collected as part of the wetlands inventory; the CNHRPC will borrow these items for source materials. The purchase of new (1998) aerial photos of Henniker was discussed and approved. They will be lent to the Central New Hampshire Regional Planning Commission as a source for their land use mapping. The HCC will use them for various Natural Resource Inventory projects.

7. Natural Resources Inventory (NRI): Denise will contact Ann Poole about the status of the draft outline for phase two of the NRI. Denise will review the list of items needed to submit to Ann Poole and inform the HCC of what is needed.

8. Other business: It was noted that there may be a wetlands issue where filling has occurred adjacent to the Harvester Market. Denise will contact Peter Flynn about the Site Plan Review and the Building Permit.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 PM. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held at the Town Hall on September 5, 2001.

Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico

Minutes of Meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission

Town Hall - September 5, 2001 - 7:00 PM

Henniker Conservation Commission (HCC) Members Present: Holly Green, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico (Chair), and Martha Sunderland.

Also Present: Dawn Nelson.

Items of Discussion:

1. Minutes. The minutes to the 8/01/01 and 8/15/01 meetings were reviewed and approved with revisions.

2. Mail:

The NH Dept. of Environmental Services (DES) Wetlands Bureau sent copies of the following:

- letter re: complaint (File # 2001-01288), dated 8/23/01, that was sent to Lorin Mulligan. The letter informed Ms. Mulligan that a complaint alleges she has, without a permit, dredged and filled adjacent to a stream and associated wetlands for culvert installation.

- wetlands and non-site specific permit (# 2001-01375) that was issued to Pats Peak Ski Area, approval date 8/23/01, to fill 2,808 square feet of forested wetlands in 2 locations and extend an existing 8" culvert by 44' as part of an existing trail upgrade.

3. French Pond Episode Assessment Project. High phosphorus levels were detected at Station #2 (Cow Brook) on 7/15/01. Mark pointed out that this is a reason to look at this monitoring site again. Samples collected from French Pond on 8/15/01 detected a rise in phosphorus in the deep level of the pond. Martha indicated there will be some money left to use for extra sampling checks during rain events. There will be another sampling expedition on Saturday, September 6 and DES staff may come along to observe.

4. Annual Lake Monitoring Project The budget will be checked to see if there are sufficient funds for conducting a town-wide lake sampling project this year. Lakes are sampled annually for base-line data.

5. Natural Resources Inventory (NRI). Denise handed out a draft NRI table of contents for the final NRI report that Ann Poole has submitted for the Commission's review. The Commission discussed the table of contents and what information still needs to be collected. Mark may be able to get an intern to survey shoreland development.

Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 P.M.

The next meeting of the Conservation Commission will be held on Wednesday, September 19, 2001 at the Grange.

Respectfully submitted, Holly Green

Minutes of Meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission

Grange Hall - September 19, 2001 - 7:00 PM

Henniker Conservation Commission (HCC) Members Present: Holly Green, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico (Chair), and Martha Sunderland.

Also Present: Brian Mazersky.

1. Mail:

- The new French Pond Septic Survey results were received from Gile Sievers. Mark will submit to NH Dept. of Environmental Services (NHDES).

- University of NH Cooperative Extension's Habitats was received.

- NHDES's New Hampshire Environment 2000 was received.

- Copies of the Central NH Regional Planning Commission's (CNHRPC) revised "Conservation, Preservation, and Open Space" chapter of the Master Plan were received.

- A memo from Peter Flynn, Town Administrator, was received announcing 2002 budget deadlines and schedules of budget meetings.

- The HCC's 2002 budget must be submitted to the Selectmen's Office no later than Oct. 24, 2001.

- The HCC budget will be reviewed at the Selectmen's meeting at 6:20 pm on Nov. 20, 2001.

- The HCC budget will be reviewed at the Budget Committee meeting 7:15 pm, Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2002.

- A flyer announcing NH Wildlife Trust's new publication, Open Space for New Hampshire: A Toolbook of Techniques for the New Millennium, was received. Copies are $15 plus $3 shipping.

2. Minutes: The 9/05/01 minutes were not available for review - review for approval will be moved to the next meeting.

3. French Pond Episode Assessment Project: Billing issues were discussed. The new septic survey results were discussed (see above). The last sampling was 8/25/01 and phosphorous at the bottom was high. The next regular sampling will be this weekend (9/22 or 9/23).

4. Eagle Scout Project: Brian Mazersky was present to discuss options for an Eagle Scout project for his son, Ian. One hundred hours are needed and the project should have a lasting, benefit for the community. Brian was particularly interested in a project to create signage for trails or other conservation areas in town. Denise will contact the Mazersky's to schedule a meeting to discuss the details.

5. Annual Lake Monitoring Project: Martha checked the budget and the HCC can afford to complete the lake sampling project. Mark will check with NHDES on the availability of the necessary equipment. A tenctative date of Saturday, Oct. 13, 2001 was chosen.

6. Natural Resources Inventory: Ann Poole will be scheduled for the next meeting. Holly brought copies of the NHDES's map, Drinking Water Resources and Potential Contamination Sources and associated data. Denise will contact the GIS (Geographic Information System) section of NHDES to arrange to get the digital data for the NRI. The 1998 aerials will be used to identify undeveloped shorelands.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 pm. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be 7:00 pm, October 3, 2001 at Town Hall.

Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico

Minutes of Meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission

Town Hall - October 3, 2001 - 7:00 PM

Henniker Conservation Commission (HCC) Members Present: Holly Green, Mark Mitch, and Denise Rico (Chair).

Also Present: Brian and Ian Mazersky, Dawn Nelson, and Ann Poole.

1. Natural Resources Inventory (NRI): Ann Poole, NRI Consultant, submitted an invoice for her retainer fee. She was given the NRI data collected to date and will begin drafting the text. She will contact Denise to work out the details of mapping the information with the GIS (Geographic Information System). Denise will contact the Central NH Regional Planning Commission (CNHRPC) to check on several mapping issues.

2. Eagle Scout Project: Brian Mazersky and his son, Ian Mazersky, were present to discuss Ian's Eagle Scout project. If the project is approved by the Boy Scout Council, Mark will coordinate the work to be done at the New England College (NEC) trails and Denise will coordinate the work to be done at the Pleasant Pond site. The NEC trails require some clearing and possibly signage. A picnic area with one table and a sign will be installed at the Pleasant Pond site. Some animal tracking and plant inventory work may also be done. Denise will meet with Ian and his mother at the Pleasant Pond site on Fri. Oct. 6, at 11:00 AM.

3. Minutes: The 9/05/01 and 9/19/01 minutes were approved with a minor revision. The website will have minutes posted up to date within the next few days.

4. Mail: a.) The Central NH Regional Planning Commission's (CNHRPC) revised "Conservation, Preservation, and Open Space" chapter of the Master Plan was received. The next meeting is 7 PM Monday, Oct. 8 at Town Hall. b.) The CNHRPC's final draft of the "Transportation" chapter of the Master Plan was received. A public hearing is scheduled for 7:30 PM Wed. Oct. 10 at Town Hall. c.) The NH Dept. of Environmental Services (DES) sent copies of "Complete Forestry Notifications" for 31 Freeman Colby Rd. d.) A letter was received from DES announcing a new storm water management report that is available on their website.

5. 2002 HCC Budget: The budget request for 2002 is due to Peter Flynn no later than Oct. 24. The budget will be the same as last year with the following exceptions - $200 will be added to cover the annual lake monitoring project, $300 will be added for materials for the Eagle Scout project, and the annual dues for NH Association of Conservation Commissions has been raised from $200 to $225.

6. French Pond Episode Assessment Project: Steve Couture from DES was present at the last sampling. Due to the lack of flow throughout the summer in the tributaries, Steve recommended the project be extended into spring to sample the snow melt. The project has been creating a budget deficit due to the lapse of time between HCC expenditures and DES reimbursements. The last payment from DES does not arrive until the project is complete - it is possible, though seems unlikely at this point, that the project will cause a budget deficit in 2001.

7. Annual Lake Monitoring Project: Mark suggested the dates for the monitoring be moved to Sat. Oct. 27 and Sun. Oct. 28. This will allow for more time to recruit volunteers. Everyone agreed. Martha will be contacted to see if it works for her scheduling.

8. Other business: a.) Annual NH Association of Conservation Commissions meeting: The annual meeting will be held 8-3:30 on Sat. Nov. 3 at Rundlett Jr. High in Concord. Holly moved HCC members be reimbursed for the cost of attending the meeting if there is money left in the training section of the budget. The motion was approved. b.) DES Air Resource Division Public Hearing RE: Pike Industries: Pike has applied to renew its air permit and a public hearing is scheduled for 6 PM Wed. Oct. 10 at the Grange. Bob Gosse of Tall Pines Cottages requested an enlargement of the NRI Water Resource map to study before the hearing. Denise printed this and added a disclaimer stating the data on the map was not appropriate to use for site specific planning purposes.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be 7:00 PM, October 17, 2001 at the Grange Hall.

Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico, Henniker Conservation Commission

Minutes of Meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission

Grange Hall - October 17, 2001 ‑ 7:00 PM

Members Present: Denise Rico (Chair), Roni Hardy, Martha Sunderland, Mark Mitch, Holly Green and Dawn Nelson.

Also present: Kris Blomback of Pats Peak and Jennifer McCourt, engineer for Pats Peak.

Items of Discussion:

1. Pats Peak. Kris and Jennifer came to the meeting to answer questions and generally discuss the permit granted for the Craney Pond water withdrawal project. Kris said that in order to withdraw the permitted 5 million gallons or 3 inch drawdown per pumping event, they might pump round-the-clock for 3 days or until their reservoir is full. If the flow leaving the pond in Cascade Brook is 0.6 cfs or less they cannot withdraw water. The structures described in the permit will not be constructed this year so they will be using a truck-mounted diesel pump like the one used last year. Kris said they will soundproof the pump to the best of their ability and will monitor the water level hourly during pumping events. He said that construction of the new system will begin next year during low water, in July or August. They expect that pumping for this season will begin in one month. Jen submitted a revised “Withdrawal Management and Operational Plan” and revised drawings for the record.

2. Mail. Martha will register everyone for the annual meeting of N.H. Association of Conservation Commissions to be held on November 3.

3. Minutes. The minutes to the October 3, 2001 meeting were reviewed and approved.

4. Budget. Denise and Martha will schedule a meeting with Peter Flynn prior to submitting the budget to the Selectmen to go over the proposed budget.

5. Pike Industries Public Hearing. Dawn attended the NH Dept. of Environmental Services public hearing on October 10, 2001 concerning the air quality permit renewal for Pike Industries. Residents of Galloping Hill in Hopkinton and Bob Gosse of Tall Pines Cottages at Keyser Pond were present to state their concerns about the odor. The air has been monitored sporadically by the state and they have not found anything.

6. French Pond Episode Assessment Project. Mark and Martha reported that the last sampling will be completed in the next week. Mark commented that there is presently an interesting filamentous algal bloom on French Pond.

7. Annual Lake Sampling. The Commission’s annual lake sampling will occur on October 27th and 28th. Participants will meet at 10 AM at the New England College lab to go over the procedures and pick up equipment. There will be three sets of equipment. Martha will email last year’s volunteers.

8. Eagle Scout Project. Commissioners reviewed the project description prepared by Ian Mazersky. He is proposing the creation of a small picnic area on the small town-owned lot on Pleasant Pond. He plans to build a picnic table and a small sign. He will also distribute posters around town to inform residents of the existence of the picnic area. The town has agreed to provide and maintain a trash can at the site.

9. Other Business. (a) Dawn reported that additional sand has been dumped at the Davison Road site. The state has warned that if any further work occurred at the site, a permit would be needed. The Commission will inform the Dept. of Environmental Services’ Wetlands Inspector. (b) It was voted to appoint Dawn Nelson as an official member of the Commission; and (c) Martha reported that there is a small amount of money remaining in the Commission’s fund that could be used to provide GPS training.

Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 P.M.

The next regular meeting of the Conservation Commission will be held on Wednesday, November 7, 2001 at the Town Hall.

Respectfully submitted, Roni Hardy, Henniker Conservation Commission

Minutes of Meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission

Town Hall - November 7, 2001 - 7:00 PM

Henniker Conservation Commission (HCC) Members Present: Holly Green, Mark Mitch, Dawn Nelson, Denise Rico (Chair), and Martha Sunderland.

Also Present: Brian and Ian Mazersky.

1. Eagle Scout Project: Brian and Ian Mazersky asked a few questions about the funding of the Eagle Scout project. If approved, money would not be available until after town meeting. If not approved, the HCC would consider providing some funding from the community outreach portion of its budget and the scouts may have to do some fundraising.

2. NH Comprehensive Lake Inventory: Martha briefed the HCC on a new inventory by the NH Dept. of Environmental Services (NHDES) Lakes Management and Protection Program.

3. Minutes: The 10/17/01 minutes were reviewed and approved as written.

4. New Mail: The following items were reviewed: a.) An announcement for a forum, "Ground Water and Aquatic Habitat Protection in New Hampshire". b.) A questionnaire from the Center for Land Conservation Assistance. Denise will complete it c.) A questionnaire from the Statewide Program of Action to Conserve our Environment (SPACE). Denise will give it to Cindy Marsland to complete. d.) A list of 2001 "Intents to Cut" timber. e.) An email from Betsy Hahn, Environmental Planner for Nashua Regional Planning Commission requesting a copy of the completed Natural Resources Inventory. Denise will respond. f.) "The Source" newsletter from NHDES Drinking Water Source Protection Program. g.) A newsletter from the New Hampshire Coverts Project of UNH Coop Extension. h.) A flyer promoting the publication, "Open Space for New Hampshire". Denise will order one.

5. NH Association of Conservation Commissions annual meeting: HCC members discussed the workshop sessions they attended and how they might utilize the new information in Henniker.

6. French Pond Episode Assessment Project: The sampling is finished for the season. Mark will work with Steve Couture of NHDES to complete the paper work necessary to extend the project into the spring. Mark will develop charts and interpretations of the data collected. These data will be provided to Peter Flynn for public accessibility.

7. Annual Lake Sampling: The sampling is complete and the lab results are back from NHDES. Morrill and French Ponds have elevated phosphorous levels in the hypolimnion (at the bottom). Mark will develop charts and interpretations of the data collected and supply the information to Laura Scott of the Central NH Regional Planning Commission (CNHRPC) for the Master Plan update.

8. R2C2 meeting: Denise briefed the HCC about the October 18 meeting and the NH Natural Heritage Inventory (NHI) information presented by Sara Cairns. The NHI listing for Henniker can be updated by submitting the reporting form. Dawn will make copies. The HCC will report the black gum swamp occurrences in town and update the information on the heron rookeries.

9.Natural Resources Inventory (NRI): Denise met with Ann Poole, consultant for the project, on October 24. The discussion centered around the water hazards inventory GIS (Geographic Information System) data supplied by NHDES. Denise will combine the various hazard layers into one layer for clarity. Registered water user tables will be included in the NRI. Denise will contact NHDES Water Management section to acquire the data. The dam layer will not be used.

10. Budget: Denise briefed the HCC on the 2002 budget presentation to the Board of Selectmen on November 6. The amount requested for the annual lake sampling will be increased to $250 to cover NHDES lab costs (changed after receiving this year's billing).

11. Other business: a). Dawn Nelson has been sworn in as a member of the HCC. b). Cindy Marsland would like copies of HCC and NHDES documents to file in the parcel folders. Denise will work on this.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 PM. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be 7:00 PM, November 21, 2001 at the Grange Hall.

Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico

Minutes of Meeting of the Henniker Conservation Commission

Grange Hall - November 21, 2001 - 7:00 PM

Henniker Conservation Commission (HCC) Members Present: Holly Green, Mark Mitch, Dawn Nelson, Denise Rico (Chair), and Martha Sunderland.

1. Minutes: The 11/07/01 minutes were reviewed and approved with minor changes.

2. New Mail: The following items were reviewed: a.) A letter from Pats Peak to its neighbors informing them that Pats Peak will be pumping water for snowmaking. b.) A memo from Kathy Russell, Town Secretary, RE: Jan. 15, 2002 deadline for the Town Report and the Henniker Herald. c.) A letter from the NH Dept. of Environmental Services (NHDES) requesting comments on the federal Environmental Protection Agency and NHDES's partnering arrangements.

3. French Pond/Annual Lake Sampling Data Reports: Mark had several charts of data collected and he will work on preparing the final reports before mid-January. He will use a NHDES lake health index to prepare a report that will indicate the general health of the lakes.

4. Conservation, Preservation, and Open Space Chapter of Master Plan: The chapter was conditionally approved with amendments at the 11/12/01 public hearing. A final public hearing will take place when the entire Master Plan is complete.

5. Planning Board (PB) Hearing: a.) At the request of the PB, Denise attended a 11/14/01 public hearing where the Board was conducting several site plan reviews. She recommended a professional wetland delineation be conducted for the minor sub-division on Ray Rd. b.) The site plan for the addition and regrading at the AGS building on Depot Hill Rd. was approved by the PB. The plan did not have the adjacent wetlands delineated. Mark and Denise will attend the next PB meeting to discuss the possibility that the regrading may impact wetlands and a state permit may be required. c.) A suggestion was made to have an informational session for the HCC and the PB presented by a representative from NH Dept. of Environmental Services Wetlands Bureau to discuss how to recognize possible wetlands impacts when reviewing site plans.

6. Budget: Some of the funds remaining for 2001 will be used to purchase paper and ink cartridges to replace those used at New England College and at Denise's. The remaining funds will be used to produce and publicize the completed Natural Resources Inventory.

7. Natural Resources Inventory (NRI): The water hazards mapping and how the information will appear in the NRI was discussed. Denise will contact Ann Poole, Consultant for the project, to discuss scheduling. Martha will contact Ann to discuss billing.

8. Other Business: Denise would like to look into a grant for funding a GIS (Geographic Information System) for the Commission.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held at 7:00 PM, Wednesday, December 5, 2001 at Town Hall.

Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico, Henniker Conservation Commission

Minutes of Meeting Henniker Conservation Commission

Town Hall

December 5, 2001 - 7:00 PM

Henniker Conservation Commission (HCC) Members Present: Holly Green, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico (Chair), and Martha Sunderland.

Also Present: Gary Spaulding of SFC Engineering

1. Minutes: The 11/21//01 minutes were reviewed and approved with minor changes.

2. New Mail: The following items were reviewed: a.) The November 2001 Conservation News, a newsletter from the Merrimack County Conservation District. b.) "Complete Forestry Notifications" from the NH Dept. of Environmental Services (NHDES) for Tax Map/Lot 1/277 and Tax Map/Lot 1/329A. c.) A memo from the Central NH Regional Planning Commission (CNHRPC) re: 2002 Town Meeting Summary of Critical Dates. d.) A note from the Randolph, NH Conservation Commission saying the Natural Features Inventory data Dawn had requested is no longer available. It is currently being updated.

3. Budget: It was suggested and approved the amount requested for the Eagle Scout project be amended to $100 to make it more proportionate with the rest of the 2002 budget request. Denise will submit the budget change to Peter Flynn. Martha has reworked the budget appropriations spreadsheets to make them clearer.

4. Planning Board (PB) Public Hearing and Meeting of Nov. 28, 2001: a.) The site plan for Michie Corp's building additions that was approved during the public hearing was reviewed. b.) Mark and Denise attended the PB meeting to discuss the possibility that wetlands may be impacted at the AGS site where the PB had approved a site plan on 11/14/01. A site visit will be scheduled and the HCC will offer recommendations to the property owner. Pete Walker will be contacted to evaluate the soil. c.) It was suggested a representative from NHDES Wetlands Bureau come to address the HCC and the PB concerning wetlands impacts and site development. Denise spoke with Sandy Crystal, Public Outreach for the Wetlands Bureau, and Peter Flynn, Town Administrator, and will make arrangements with all concerned parties. A date in late January, early February was suggested.

5. Saint Theresa's Church Site: Gary Spaulding of SFC Engineering presented a preliminary site plan for the new church complex on Old West Hopkinton Road. The site is approximately 24 acres in size with 4 acres of wetlands. He said the project, as proposed, will have 4 acres of site disturbance and 7000-8000 sq ft of wetland impacts. A site visit was scheduled for Saturday, 12/8/01 at 8 AM. A question was raised about the Zoning regulations and the need for a special exception to fill wetlands. Denise will look into this.

6. Natural Resources Inventory (NRI): a.) Copies of Ann Poole's preliminary report were distributed and members will work at revision before the next meeting. b.) Holly and Denise discussed how the NHDES water hazards data could be presented in the NRI. c.) NH Natural Heritage Inventory data was recently acquired and there was discuss