Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission consists of seven members appointed by the Board of Selectmen for three-year terms. The purpose of the Commission is to promote and develop the natural resources and to protect the water resources of the Town as provided for under MGL Ch. 40, Section 8C, as amended.

The Commission will conduct research into local land areas and develop a conservation and outdoor passive recreation plan to accomplish the purpose set forth. It will conduct broad educational programs, cooperate with elected and appointed boards and commissions of the Town, and with the State and Federal Department of Environmental Affairs with regard to natural resources regulations and other regulations imposed by law and shall perform other duties as may be imposed by law.

The Conservation Commission’s charge is to protect the wetlands-related water resources and adjoining land areas in Northborough as mandated by the MA Wetlands Protection Act and the Northborough Wetlands Bylaw. This is achieved through a permitting process designed to minimize the impact of activities on wetland values, including public or private water supply, groundwater, flood control, erosion and sedimentation control, storm damage prevention, water pollution prevention, fisheries, freshwater shellfish, wildlife habitat, recreation, aesthetics, agriculture and aquaculture values.

Activities proposed within 100 feet of any Resource Area are subject to review by the Commission. Resource Areas include: freshwater wetlands, bordering vegetated wetlands, marshes, wet meadows, bogs or swamps; any bank, beach, lake, river, pond, stream or any land under said waters; any land subject to flooding or inundation by groundwater, surface flowage. Any project in any Riverfront Area (area within 200' of a perennial stream) is also subject to review by the Commission. The Commission will also adhere to the existing regulations of MGL C. 131, Section 40, the Wetlands Protection Act.

Staff Contacts

Name Phone
Laurie Connors (508) 393-5019
Vincent Vignaly 508-504-8776