Conservation

The Palmer Conservation Commission (PCC) is a seven-member board of volunteers appointed by the Town Manager. The duties and responsibilities of a Conservation Commission are spelled out in the Conservation Commission Act (MGL Ch 40 § 8C).  Under this Act a municipal Conservation Commission is the official agency specifically charged with the protection of a community’s natural resources.   The Conservation Commission also advises other municipal officials and boards on conservation issues that relate to their areas of responsibility.

The Conservation Commission is also responsible for administering the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (MGL Ch 131 § 40) and associated regulations (310 CMR 10.00).  Under this law, the Conservation Commission serves the community in a regulatory as well as a conservation capacity.

The Conservation Commission also reviews all Forest Cutting Plans within the town and any project within areas of protected rare/endangered species and/or priority habitat governed by the National Heritage Endangered Species Program (NHESP), a division of the Massachusetts Fisheries & Wildlife.

Mission Statement:
The mission of the Palmer Conservation Commission is to protect wetlands and resources in the town of Palmer 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/educational resource for citizens, groups, organizations, as well as local, State and Federal agencies.

There are currently no vacancies on the Commission but there are two (2) vacancies for interested associate members.  Please either attend a meeting, contact the Conservation Commission Office or the Town Manager if interested.