Conservation Commission Meeting May 27, 2026

The Town of Amherst Conservation Commission held a meeting on May 27, 2026, focusing on several procurement and land management topics. Key procurement-related discussions included the installation of a cistern at Fort River Farm community garden, which was reviewed for permitting requirements, and the request to reduce inspection frequency for the Amherst track and field project nearing completion. The commission also addressed compliance issues related to a fire-damaged site at Olympia Drive, including debris cleanup and environmental testing, with plans to consult town legal counsel before authorizing contractor work. Additionally, the commission reviewed and approved a letter of support for the town's updated Open Space and Recreation Plan, which is critical for securing state grants for future projects. The meeting included motions to continue a public hearing for Eversource Energy’s soil sampling project and to approve outstanding meeting minutes. The commission agreed to schedule an executive session to discuss legal strategy regarding the Olympia Drive cleanup. Overall, the meeting involved detailed policy discussions on conservation land management, hunting regulations, and procedural steps for environmental compliance and capital improvement projects.