Harwich health officials issued urgent warnings this week following the discovery of toxic blue-green algae blooms at Bucks Pond and Great Sand Lakes. Conservation Agent Amy Usowski reported that water samples identified Microcystis and Dolichospermum, which can produce neurotoxins and cause significant gastrointestinal issues in humans and pets. It is a genuine health hazard, especially for dogs and children, Usowski told the Conservation Commission, noting that the wind-driven scum had already moved across different sections of the lakes. Caution signs have been posted as the town grapples with ongoing nutrient loading issues. Chair John Ketchum noted the increasing frequency of such events, asking if the town is simply more alert or if the problem is worsening. Usowski confirmed it is both, emphasizing that nutrient loading needs to stop.

The commission also reviewed a major draft revision of the town’s Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP), a document that has not seen a full update in nearly 20 years. Working with consultants Tighe & Bond, the town is pivoting its strategy from the land acquisition focus of the 1990s toward the active management of currently held municipal lands. This document is a critical financial tool, as its ratification by the state makes Harwich eligible for land grants that can reimburse the town up to $400,000 per acquisition. This planning document lays the groundwork to appeal to the powers that be for more people or redirected resources, Usowski explained.

Commission members expressed concerns regarding the long-term funding for this management-first approach. My only question is if they want emphasis on management, are they going to be willing to cough up the money? It costs money to manage things, Chair Ketchum observed. Ketchum also requested that the final plan include specific priorities for eliminating invasive species like Japanese knotweed and phragmites, which he described as huge problems in the community. The commission opted to continue the discussion to July 2 to allow for final edits, including the addition of the municipal golf course to the list of recreation facilities.

The commission moved to address an after-the-fact lot clear-cutting violation at 54 Main Street Extension. To protect the 50-foot no-disturb zone, the board is requiring the installation of permanent physical barriers. Vice Chair Mark Coleman specified that the owner must install two-man stones, approximately 24 inches in diameter and spaced four feet apart, rather than a traditional fence. Motion Made by J. Ketchum to approve the order of conditions with the modifications just discussed and to be not released without a revised site plan. Motion Passed (5-0).

In shoreline matters, the commission authorized a restoration project at 19 Waset Road designed to combat salt marsh slumping. Dan Ojala of Down Cape Engineering presented a plan to use bio-engineered fabric logs and oak stakes to infill eroded pockets. This provides a platform for the marsh to advance landward as sea levels rise, Ojala said, noting the materials are entirely biodegradable. Motion Made by M. Coleman to approve the plan for 19 Waset Road, map M5, parcel K1-41, SE number 032-2596. Motion Passed (5-0).

At 19 Walther Road, applicant Victoria Wiseman sought a Certificate of Compliance for a stone revetment project. While the work was largely complete, the agent identified an unpermitted stone path that needed removal. It is now sand. I am moving the remaining pile tomorrow, Wiseman stated, clarifying a previous miscommunication regarding allowable path materials. Motion Made by M. Coleman for approval of the certificate of compliance for 19 Walther Road project SE 032-2570 with the release upon the agent's level of comfort. Motion Passed (5-0).

Reflecting on previous enforcement actions, Member Vivienne Mulhall-Maguire moved to amend the June 4 minutes to clarify a discussion regarding fines at 54 Main Street. The minutes make it sound like we were unanimously in agreement on the full fine. I wanted to reflect that I was in favor of reducing the fine, even though I voted yes on the final motion, Mulhall-Maguire noted. Vice Chair Coleman also requested his similar stance be reflected in the record. Motion Made by V. Mulhall-Maguire for approval of minutes of June 4, 2025, as amended. Motion Passed (5-0).

In other business, the commission approved a Certificate of Compliance for 587 Pleasant Lake Avenue following a successful vista pruning project. Usowski praised the work, noting the applicant did a nice job snaking a four-foot path through the sweet pepper bush to create a view corridor near Black Pond. Motion Made by M. Coleman for approval of certificate of compliance for 587 Pleasant Lake Avenue project SE 032-2535. Motion Passed (5-0).