Conservation commission outlines clearing plan for Derosher ditches, seeks $2,000 in budget

The commission reviewed photos and video from the Derosher property and identified a middle ditch and a culvert under a road as priorities for clearing to reduce flood risk to adjacent farm fields. Chair George Levesque described sapling overgrowth, standing water in places and sediment buildup near banks, and suggested a mixed approach: volunteer hand-clearing and targeted use of heavy equipment next year.

"We have asked for an extra $2,000 in our budget this year," Levesque said, explaining the request covers one-time work and would likely pay for excavation next year if volunteer prep is insufficient. Members discussed beginning hand work in November, using town trailers and brush hogs where possible, and staging a volunteer work party to remove brush and pile it for winter burning or hauling. The commission noted parts of the site are on active farmland (McQueston) and emphasized staying on access roads and avoiding crop areas.

Members agreed to plan a field visit and work parties this fall and to seek the budget item at the town budget meeting. The commission will prioritize manual clearing where feasible and reserve paid equipment for deeper or wet sections that volunteers cannot access.