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.