Conservation Commission backs stronger support for Mud Pond conservation easement

The Conservation Commission voted Friday to strengthen and forward a letter of support for the Mud Pond Conservation Project, a private-land easement proposal seeking Federal Forest Legacy Program funding through the Vermont Land Trust. Chair Chris Steel moved to revise the draft to convey a stronger statement of support; Jane Hoffman seconded and "all members present approved," the minutes state.

Pieter Van Loon, who presented the proposal remotely, said the easement would "guarantee permanent public access, enable trail connections to adjacent parcels, and permit forestry, recreation, and hunting." Pieter told commissioners the application process involves "multiple review rounds taking up to three years," and that Vermont Land Trust would incorporate feedback each cycle to improve the project's ranking. Commissioner JoAnn Hanowski asked how public input would shape future trail and recreational development; Pieter said VLT would manage the parcel similarly to the Mud Pond area and use the site for education and outreach on climate-resilient forest management.

Under the motions adopted, the Commission will return a revised draft to Pieter for review and then forward the finalized letter and supporting materials to the Selectboard with a summary statement of support. The motions were seconded and approved by all members present at the meeting.