Waterville Valley Conservation Commission Discusses Key Environmental Issues

The Waterville Valley Conservation Commission convened on May 22, 2025, to address several critical environmental topics, including updates on the wastewater treatment facility, water conservation concerns, and the development of a mission statement. The meeting, held at the Town Hall Meeting Room, covered town updates, planning board coordination, and new business related to environmental regulations and community engagement (link).

Wastewater Treatment Facility Update

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the ongoing development of a new wastewater treatment facility. Preliminary plans indicate the facility will be located across Clean Water Lane from the transfer station, between Tripoli Road and the existing plant. The proposed design includes a campus of six to seven buildings, replacing the current lagoons, sludge lagoon, and drying beds. This consolidation aims to reduce the facility’s footprint significantly. Engineering plans are approximately three weeks behind schedule, with a final report expected by mid-August 2025, including definitive building locations and treatment process details (link).

The commission discussed the importance of public education regarding the project, emphasizing that the new facility will not only replace the existing building but also modernize the entire treatment process. Concerns were raised about the viability of a septic system versus a pipeline to the resort, with subsurface data still under review to determine the most cost-effective option (link).

Hazard Mitigation and Town Maintenance

The commission reviewed the town’s hazard mitigation process, which occurs every five years to identify and address natural and man-made hazards. Monthly meetings are ongoing, with a final report expected after two more sessions. The discussion also touched on brush management, with chipping not currently viable due to space and regulatory constraints. Burning is conducted under controlled conditions to minimize smoke impact, though residents requested better notification to avoid downwind effects (link).

Maintenance issues, such as a leaking hose bib at the recreation center and brush piles on Boulder Path Road, were raised. The town is addressing these, with plans to clean up asphalt and debris and improve drainage on roads like Packard’s Road and New Peak Road. Paving projects are also scheduled for Golden Eagle parking lots and a pedestrian path from the lodge to the bridge (link).

Planning Board Update and Master Plan

The commission discussed coordination with the Planning Board, particularly regarding Chapter 8 of the town’s master plan, which outlines enforcement responsibilities and conservation priorities. Key issues included dark skies (light pollution) and natural resource protection. The commission agreed to review the master plan electronically and discuss it further at the next meeting to align their efforts with the town’s broader goals (link).

Conservation Commission Mission Statement

Efforts to refine the Conservation Commission’s mission statement were a focal point. The commission reviewed language from the New Hampshire Association of Conservation Commissions, which emphasizes identifying and protecting natural resources, advising town boards, and educating the public. Suggestions were made to tailor the statement to Waterville Valley’s unique context as a ski resort community, potentially highlighting collaboration with the resort. The commission plans to draft a concise statement for the next meeting (link).

Water Conservation and Fertilizer Regulations

Concerns about water usage, particularly from sprinkler systems in homes and condo associations, prompted a discussion on PES measures. The commission noted that Waterville Valley is on a state list for drought monitoring, yet enforcement of water restrictions remains inconsistent. Proposals include recommending a water ban or differential pricing for high-usage properties to the Select Board. Additionally, new state fertilizer regulations were reviewed to address runoff into streams, with the commission advocating for organic alternatives and stricter herbicide and pesticide policies (link).

The commission plans to present a formal recommendation to the Select Board on June 4, 2025, to address these issues, emphasizing the need for enforcement to protect the town’s drinking water and natural resources (link).

Other Business

The commission discussed increasing the number of alternate members to encourage community participation, noting that state guidelines allow flexibility in appointing alternates. A proposal to name a 13.5-acre conservation area was also raised, with further discussion planned for the next meeting (link).

Next Steps

The next Conservation Commission meeting is tentatively scheduled for June 26, 2025, at noon, pending confirmation to avoid scheduling conflicts. The commission will review the master plan, finalize the mission statement, and prepare a formal recommendation on water and fertilizer regulations for the Select Board.