Selectboard records support for Vermont Fish & Wildlife purchase of 33-acre 'Maple Crossing' parcel

Will Duane, Land Acquisition Coordinator with the Vermont Department of Fish & Wildlife, presented a proposal to acquire roughly 33–33.5 acres known as Maple Crossing from the Mount Holly Conservation Trust as a habitat connector between Okemo State Forest and the adjoining wildlife management area. "There would be no public parking or driveway and no loss of tax revenue," Duane told the board, describing the parcel as a conservation acquisition to protect black bear habitat and other wildlife.

Selectboard member Brian Gehlich moved that the board record support for the Department of Fish & Wildlife's acquisition in the minutes rather than drafting a formal letter; the motion was seconded by Katie Fitzpatrick and passed unanimously. Town staff said copies of the letter and map would be made available online and at the Town Office, and that the board would revisit the proposal if further action were requested by state staff before the end-of-year timelines the presenter described.