Conservation commission discusses timber harvest, asks for proposal and independent review

Chair opened discussion of the annual monitoring reports and said a consultant noted that part of the Rideout/Bridal Out property is “ready for a timber harvest.” The commission explored whether to authorize a harvest and how revenue and oversight would be handled.

Tom Davies, the commission treasurer, said the town’s accounts are in good shape and noted that timber revenue goes to the town general fund: “As of July 7 … our coffers hold $1,278,455.30,” he said. Members discussed the mechanics of a harvest, including an “intent cut” form that would need the conservation chair’s signature and a contract between the commission and the contractor under state law.

Several members urged caution and clearance steps before approving work. One member reminded the board that the parcel in question totals about 51.6 acres and that timber value estimates varied in discussion; members observed that revenue could be material but the commission should not proceed without a written scope and cost proposal. The group agreed to ask Craig (the town forester identified in the monitoring report) to provide a formal proposal and to request an independent review or second opinion to reduce the appearance of a conflict of interest if the same forester recommends and carries out the cut.

The commission also discussed contracting thresholds and public procurement norms; members said state rules typically require written contracts and that a separate purchase/bid process might be warranted if the harvest proceeds and exceeds local bid thresholds. Chair asked staff to request a written proposal from the forester and to return to the commission with a clear recommendation and proposed contract language.

The commission did not take a vote on a harvest at the meeting and agreed the next steps are: (1) obtain a formal proposal and scope from the forester; (2) seek a second professional opinion or peer review on the necessity and scope of the cut; and (3) confirm contracting and intent-cut paperwork before any timber sale or harvest begins.