1.1 Review, purpose, and benefits of the update
1.2 Process, schedule, and opportunities for public participation and feedback
1.2.1 OSRP survey
1.2.2 Bi-weekly stakeholder sessions in conjunction with Conservation Commission meetings, including:
• Schmidt Farm (Feb 23)
• Riverbend Conservation Area (Mar 9)
• Maple Hill (Mar 23)
1.2.3 Public hearings
• Feb 21 (tonight): Overview and review of progress from the prior (2016) update
• Apr 25: Goals and objectives of the 2023 update
• Jun 20: Review and feedback on the draft 2023 plan update
1.3 Introduction to key Town staff
3.1 Increase public awareness of Open Space and Recreation opportunities in Franklin
• Signage
• Educational and/or outdoor programs
• Assist schools and other organizations with environmental science, conservation and sustainability education
• Encourage volunteer efforts to steward natural resources, promote awareness/utilization of Open Spaces, and foster a community sense of identification with the land and resources
3.2 Preserve and enhance existing Town Open Space resources
• Accessibility
• Plan for prioritization and acquisition of Chapter 61/61A/61B properties
• Prioritize Town-owned land for development and approval of Conservation Restrictions
• Increase permanent funding to preserve, maintain, and increase Open Space resources
3.3 Maximize recreational opportunities to meet the community’s evolving needs by maintain current inventory of facilities and programs and by providing new facilities and programs for both active and passive recreation
• Maintain and improve current recreational areas and provide new recreational opportunities
• Increase usage of existing recreational space and modify existing spaces as the Town’s needs evolve
• Develop access points for canoes, kayaks, and boats to utilize the Charles River and Mine Brook
• Increase connectivity to and between Franklin’s Conservation Areas and Open Space
• Work with the Department of Conservation and Recreation to increase access to the SNETT and State Forest Trail
• Seek out a site and develop a youth center
3.4 Protect natural, historical, and cultural resources and maintain Franklin’s New England character
• Protect priority habitats and enhance biodiversity
• Adoption of the Cultural Preservation Act
• Implement growth management techniques that will help to preserve the Town’s natural, historical, and cultural resources
3.5 Preserve and protect the Town’s water resources
• Prioritize water bodies for ecological studies
• Implement recommendations in DelCarte Ecological Study
• Minimize the use of pesticides and salt to maintain the health of the Town’s surface and groundwater resource areas