Conservation Commission endorses Rotary partnership to restore Sears field

WESTON — March 23, 2021 — Weston Conservation Commission unanimously endorses Rotary Club partnership to restore invasive-choked Sears field. The commission backed in concept a multi-year proposal from the Rotary Club of Weston and Wayland to adopt a town conservation field documented at over 50 percent invasives, including black swallowwort, bittersweet and buckthorn. Presenter Charlie Mardirosian said the club has a $500 startup grant from its Rotary district, 12 Rotarians on its conservation team, and consultations underway with weed-science specialists at UMass Amherst and UNH. Conservation Administrator Michelle Grant offered "cautious optimism," warning that "eradication will not happen — but control and reduction and enhancement of native pollinators, those are all things that can happen." A working group with Chair Joe Berman, member Rees Tulloss and Conservation Assistant Debbie Howell will develop a formal operation and management plan. The commission separately declined to lift its COVID-era emergency leash order, citing surrounding semi-rural towns that still maintain restrictions.