Newtown Backs Barberry Clearing, Reviews Trail Plan And OKs Land Purchase

NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Conservation Commission on Nov. 18 backed a state-led invasive-plant clearing project, discussed a proposed equestrian access trail and approved the acquisition of a new open space parcel during a brief special meeting.

The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m.

The commission voted unanimously to endorse a Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection offer to deploy a winter crew to clear dense barberry from town-owned open space on Sanford Road, adjacent to the Lower Paugussett area. The work, to be done at no cost to the town, would take place between now and December. Commissioners agreed to evaluate options for treating the site in the spring to prevent regrowth.

Trail Access Discussion Continues

Commissioners also revisited a proposal from the Newtown Bridle Lands Association to clear an overgrown accessway on the Pole Bridge Preserve to connect town open space with the Sandy Hook Equestrian Center.

Deputy Land Use Director Steve Maguire said he joined representatives from the association and the commission on a site walk and found the corridor heavily overgrown with barberry and other invasive plants. While supportive of improving the trail, Maguire said any restored path must remain a public accessway, not solely a connection for the equestrian center. The association is exploring alternatives and will return with updated plans.

Rodenticide Policy Under Review

The commission continued its earlier discussion of rodenticide use in town facilities. Maguire said he contacted Health Director Donna Culbert, who is reviewing state guidelines and alternative pest-control methods. He has also reached out to the Parks and Recreation Department, municipal facilities staff and the school district to gather information on the types of bait boxes in use and whether applications are preventive or reactive. Chair Holly Kocet said she hopes to develop a town-wide policy.

Updates on Vegetation Study and Invasive Task Force

Kocet reported that a vegetation study of the High Meadow area is expected to be completed by the end of November. She also noted that the town’s Invasive Task Force wrapped up its work for the season after assisting the Newtown Forest Association at Nettleton Preserve. The group will resume field work in the spring.

Commission Weighs Use of Remaining Funds

Maguire reminded commissioners that the panel has funding available that must be used by July 2026. Potential uses include professional invasive-species removal, work on the Pole Bridge accessway, and upgrades such as signage, bridges and kiosks. Members will revisit the discussion at their next meeting.

Open Space Acquisition Approved

Following a brief executive session, the commission voted unanimously to approve the purchase of Open Space parcel #25-03. Details of the property were discussed privately as part of the land-acquisition review process.

The meeting adjourned at 7:53 p.m.