Conservation Commission

Mission

The mission of the Upton Conservation Commission is to protect wetlands and resources in the town of Upton through acquisition, management, education, and regulations; to act as a liaison between the public and other governmental agencies in protecting our natural resources and to become an environmental and educational resource for citizens, groups, organizations, as well as local, State and Federal agencies.  The Commission, in conjunction with its subcommittees, manages town owned conservation areas totaling approximately 800 acres and maintains trails, leads educational activities, and sponsors maintenance "work parties."

Wetlands Protection Act

The Commission devotes much of its time to administering the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and Upton Wetland Bylaw (PDF), which are intended to protect the quality and quantity of surface and ground water, prevent flooding and flood damage, and protect wetland-dependent wildlife and their habitat. The Commission also administers the Upton Stormwater Bylaw (PDF).

The Wetlands Protection Act prohibits construction, earth-moving, or the alteration of soils or vegetation within 100 feet of wetlands and/or 200 feet of a perennial stream without the authorization of the Commission. In Upton, wetlands include ponds, streams, vernal pools, banks, bordering vegetative wetlands, flood plains, and forested wetlands. To determine whether your property, or a portion of your property, is under the Commission's jurisdiction call 508-529-6286.


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Meetings

  • Remote via Zoom- Join on your computer or mobile app. *See home page Calander for the link to the meeting.
  • 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month.
  • Due dates for applications are two Thursdays prior to the meeting at 12:00 p.m. 
  • Meeting Dates and Application Due Dates (PDF)

Agendas & Minutes

Agendas are available prior to meetings. Minutes are available following approval.

View Most Recent Agendas and Minutes

Members

Chris Scott, Chair - term ends 2026
Mike Penko, Co-chair - term ends 2026
Sandy Lajoie, Treasurer - term ends 2025
Tom Jango, Member - term ends 2025
Alan Miano, Member - term ends 2024
Marcella Stasa, Member - term 2025
David Szczebak, Member - term ends 2025

Subcommittees

There are two subcommittees under the Conservation Commission:

Cancellation Policy for Public Hearings

The Commission requests that applicants provide a 48-hour notice if they intend to cancel their public hearing. This allows the Commission to keep abutters and the public informed of changes to the hearing schedule. Please note that legal ads now appear in the Telegram and Gazette.

Wetlands Questions & Concerns

The Conservation Commission is ready to help you with questions or concerns about wetlands. You can reach us at 508-529-6286.

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