The Grafton Conservation Commission is the official agency charged with the protection of Grafton’s natural resources. The Commission has seven full members and several associate members, all of whom are appointed volunteers. Chief among the Commission’s responsibilities is the administration of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131 Sec. 40). Additionally, the Commission advises other Town boards and officials, as well as private individuals and groups, on issues that relate to its areas of jurisdiction. These include, and are not limited to, the following:
l Promotion and development of natural resources;
l The protection of watershed resources;
l Planning, acquiring and managing open space;
l Encouraging and monitoring conservation and agricultural preservation restrictions;
l Accepting gifts of money or land for conservation purposes;
l Management of Conservation land;
l Inventorying Grafton’s natural resources;
l Preparation of an Open Space and Recreation Plan;
l Certification of vernal pools;
l Nomination of unique natural areas for additional protection, such as Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC);
l Assisting the Town in securing Self Help Funds for open space acquisition; and
l Protection of Riverfront Areas.
The Commission usually holds hearings on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Workshops are held on the fourth Tuesday of most months and the public is invited to attend any and all meetings. The Agenda for each meeting is posted in the lobby of the Grafton Municipal Center several days prior to each meeting. Questions, comments, or information relevant to the interests of the Commission may reach the members by calling the Grafton Conservation Commission office at 508-839-5335 x 138.
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