The Northborough Conservation Commission convened on April 14, 2025, to discuss several key issues impacting local conservation efforts, including deer management and the use of electric bikes on trails. The meeting highlighted the need for collaboration with local authorities and the community to address these matters effectively.

The session began with a discussion on the involvement of the Northborough Police Department regarding deer management. A commission member suggested notifying the police to ensure they are aware of ongoing discussions about deer hunting policies. The director of the Department of Public Works (DPW) had previously expressed strong support for opening conservation land to deer hunting, citing increasing deer populations leading to road hazards and damage to landscaping on both private and public properties.

The commission decided to continue the discussion on deer hunting policies until their next meeting on June 9, 2025, as one member would be unavailable for the May meeting. A motion was made and unanimously approved to postpone the policy discussion, ensuring that all members could participate in future deliberations.

The conversation then shifted to the use of electric bikes (e-bikes) on trails. The commission explored the implications of allowing Class 1 e-bikes, which are pedal-assisted and limited to a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour. The consensus was to permit e-bikes on all Northborough trails, with the understanding that the Trails Committee may propose specific restrictions in the future. A motion to amend the policy to allow Class 1 e-bikes on conservation land was also passed unanimously.

Additionally, the commission addressed the ongoing request for proposals (RFP) for forest management plans, which had been advertised to licensed foresters. The plans aim to incorporate climate change considerations and carbon sequestration strategies, with specific harvest plans for Mount Pisgah and Edmond Hill over the next three years. The commission noted that they had not yet received any responses to the RFP and encouraged members to suggest additional foresters who might be interested.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the commission's commitment to addressing local environmental challenges through community engagement and informed decision-making. The next meeting on June 9 will continue these discussions, focusing on deer management and the potential impacts of e-bike usage on conservation lands.