SOUTHWICK — If you’re passionate about nature and the community, the town is looking for a group of dedicated volunteers to take a seat on the Open Space Committee.
“The Open Space Committee is important for preserving natural resources, maintain open space for recreation to promotes a healthy lifestyle, like walking, biking, or nature activities,” said Chief Administrative Officer Nicole Parker.
Over a year ago, Conservation Commissioner Christopher Pratt, who was the commission’s chair at the time, requested the Select Board reestablish the committee for several reasons.
When the Open Space Committee started in the early 2000s, it was to draft the town’s Open Space and Recreation Plan, which the state requires to be updated every five years.
With the last plan adopted in 2020, the Open Space Committee might be involved in drafting the new plan, Parker said.
Drafting a new plan is a significant undertaking.
It is a comprehensive guide for the protection of natural resources and environmental quality for town owned lands and enables the community to direct programs and prioritize available lands for potential uses, which would better serve the town, according to the 2020 plan.
It must also consider protection of lands with historic, scenic, recreational and public health values and creating linkages to current open space in Southwick while allowing for responsible development, according to the 2020 plan.
It is also to provide for the protection of open space, remaining farmlands, aquifer recharge areas and sensitive habitats and to promote awareness and appreciation of conservation and recreational areas while still allowing for controlled, responsible development.
Another reason for the committee, Pratt said, was to create a “bench” for those interested in conservation, get involved in town government and eventually led to being appointed to the Conservation Commission.
Those who serve on the committee would also help the Conservation Commission reach decisions on management projects.
So far, Connor Fluery has been appointed to the committee, but it needs at least four more volunteers.
To help those who might be considering volunteering, the committee has four objectives: managing and maintaining open spaces, protecting aquatic ecosystems, preserving working farms, and enhancing recreational and environmental opportunities.
Managing open spaces includes preserving the green spaces that make the town a vibrant and scenic place to live and visit.
Protecting aquatic ecosystems will include working to maintain the health and ecological integrity of the town’s waterways, preserving them for future generations.
Preserving farms means the committee will support sustainable agriculture and protecting valuable farmland to maintain the town’s agricultural heritage.
The committee will also work to improve the town’s parks, trails, and outdoor spaces while exploring areas to expand recreational and environmental opportunities.
This is a chance for a resident to make a difference and work with fellow residents to make the town a better place to live, Parker said.
To get involved, call Conservation Commission Coordinator Sabrina Pooler at 413-569-6907 or visit the Select Board’s appointment application on the town’s website.
