The Conservation Commission's primary function is to review project applications and make determinations pursuant to the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Ch 131 sec. 40) and the local Newburyport Wetlands Ordinance. Projects range in size from small additions located near wetlands or water bodies to large developments that may impact wetland resources.
At present, the Newburyport Wetlands Ordinance applies primarily to Plum Island. The Ordinance was adopted in 2001 (and amended in 2005) to provide additional protection for the barrier beach--an especially fragile natural resource area. If you have questions as to whether or not you need a conservation permit for a project--either on Plum Island or on the mainland--please contact the Conservation Administrator at 978-465-4400 for guidance. Also, see "Coastal Resources" below for information on how to protect your property in coastal areas.
The Conservation Commission typically meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6:30pm in the City Council Chambers (call the Conservation Administrator to verify the meeting time and location). Hearings for projects will appear in the Newburyport Daily News and, if you are an abutter, you will receive notification by Certified Mail.
The public is welcome to attend commission meetings; go to the Agendas and Minutes section below to view upcoming meeting agendas. Note that agendas are subject to change up to 48 hours before a meeting.
To learn more, view a short video about Conservation Commissions in Massachusetts, created by the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions:
"Legacy: The Story of Massachusetts Conservation Commissions"
Conservation Commission Policies & Guidelines:
Coastal Resources:
Links:
Agendas and Minutes:
Agendas |
Minutes |
no quorum |
|
01-17-12 |