Conservation Commission Meeting - October 13, 2026

The Dartmouth Conservation Commission held a remote special meeting on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. The meeting was convened by Chairperson Michael A. Kehoe to consider the final approval of a Conservation Restriction for the Devol Field property located at 4 Tannery Lane. Mark Rasmussen of the Buzzards Bay Coalition and Conservation Coordinator Jennifer Miller presented the proposed Conservation Restriction, detailing the history of the project following the Commission's initial July 2025 vote, Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding, and subsequent Town Meeting approval.

Rasmussen highlighted the ecological significance of the 2.45-acre parcel, which is situated at the head of tide on the Slocums River directly below the Paskamansett Dam. The property faces severe flood risks and is projected to transition into a salt marsh due to sea-level rise. The restriction permanently bans residential, commercial, industrial, and active recreational development while allowing passive recreation, educational signage, trails, a potential small unpaved six-car gravel parking area, and the removal of the existing dwelling and cesspool near the river. Commissioner questions addressed the permissibility of informational and flood warning signage.

Following public comment where no members of the public spoke, the Commission voted unanimously (6-0) by roll call to close the public hearing. The Commission then voted unanimously (6-0) to accept the Conservation Restriction under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 184, Section 32, authorizing the Chairperson to execute the document and agree to non-substantive revisions as required by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. The meeting was subsequently adjourned by unanimous vote.

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