Conservation Commission / Conservation Agent

Members

Members are appointed by the Board of Selectmen and serve 3 year terms.
Name Role Term Expires
Joseph Wigglesworth Chairman 2024
Michelle Sherillo Vice Chairman 2023
Daniel Duteau Clerk  
Fred Bock Member 2022
Klarissa Johnson Member 2022
Robin Jewell Member 2022
Hayden Brown Member 2023
Karen Bartholomew Alternate 2024

Earth Day conservation commission tree on a globe

STAFF SUPPORT & NOTIFICATIONS

The Conservation Agent provides staff support for the Conservation Commission.

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MEETINGS

The Commission typically meets twice a month on Monday evenings at 5:30 p.m. or as required.  

ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES

The Webster Conservation Commission is responsible for administering the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act. Wetland resource areas are important to safeguard because they help prevent storm damage, reduce flooding, protect groundwater, prevent pollution, support fish and shellfish and provide wildlife habitat. 

All residents are reminded that the Webster Conservation Commission must review any proposed projects in or near wetland resource areas or within the 100 foot buffer zone.

Working without Conservation Approval can result in fines.


CHAPTER 91 DOCK PERMITS

Adockll residential and commercial docks in Massachusetts require a permit from the state.  The Conservation Commission reviews all Chapter 91 permit applications.  If you are constructing a new dock, you will also require an RDA or NOI.  

Learn more about Chapter 91 dock permits here:

The Massachusetts Public Waterfront Act

Chapter 91 Overview

Chapter 91 Waterways Permitting Guide


Draft Wetlands Protection By-Law

The Conservation Commission has developed a Draft By-law with the stated purpose of:

The purpose of this Bylaw is to preserve, protect, and where possible, restore the public interests ("Public Interests") associated with wetlands, related water resources and adjoining land areas in the Town, and to set forth a public review and decision making process for activities having an impact or effect upon any areas subject to protection ("Area Subject to Protection").   

A public information and comment meeting will be held in June. The Draft By-law will be presented to Town Meeting for vote.                                 

  • To view the DRAFT document, CLICK HERE.
  • To provide public comment to the Conservation Commission, CLICK HERE.
  • The Commission reviewed an earlier draft at their meeting of May 4, 2020. The meeting was held via a remote Conference call in accordance with Governor Baker’s Executive Order pertaining to the Open Meeting Law. To view the May 4th Conservation Commission meeting on YouTube, CLICK HERE.