The Southborough Conservation Commission meeting on May 1, 2025, addressed concerns regarding unauthorized fill being placed on a property near an abandoned gas station. The discussion highlighted the challenges faced by the commission, particularly in the absence of a key member on maternity leave.

Commission members expressed uncertainty about how to proceed with the situation, suggesting that contacting the town council may be necessary to determine the best course of action. One member estimated a 70% likelihood that the fill is not occurring within a wetland or its buffer zone, but acknowledged that this is not guaranteed.

The property in question has been observed to receive fill that includes materials such as asphalt, rocks, and bricks, raising concerns about its cleanliness and environmental impact. The fill is being managed with a small tractor, and while the area appears flat from the street, there are suspicions that the back of the property may be wetland.

The commission noted the difficulty in assessing the situation due to the lack of adjoining wooded areas and the inability to obtain permission from neighboring properties for further investigation. The discussion underscored the need for better tools, such as a conservation commission drone, to aid in monitoring and evaluating such environmental concerns.

As the meeting concluded, the commission recognized the importance of addressing these issues promptly to ensure compliance with conservation regulations and protect local ecosystems. Further steps will be determined in collaboration with the town council.