Tree board pitches community orchard; board asks for contamination, FEMA, and maintenance guidance

Members of the Tree Board asked the Select Board for support to plant a community orchard and community gardens on town‑owned land, proposing 10–12 small fruit trees, composting and volunteer maintenance. "The tree board ... Community orchard, and we would like to be with, community gardens," a Tree Board member told the board.

Select board members expressed support but repeatedly asked staff to provide information about contamination risks on flood-prone buyout parcels, FEMA restrictions for buyout properties, and long-term watering and maintenance plans. The board requested the tree board return with written details on proposed locations, soil testing and a maintenance plan; staff offered to compile state guidance from the Department of Health and Agency of Agriculture before the board approves plantings on flood-prone parcels.