Town of Acworth Conservation Commission

Conservation Commission

Commission Goal:

Conservation commissions are local conservation volunteers who work to study and ensure the proper utilization and protection of the natural resources and the protection of watershed resources for our town.

State Statute Summary:

Chapter 36-A, in NH Planning and Land Use Regulation, outlines the statutes and provisions by which communities may establish Conservation Commissions.

The primary powers of these Commissions include attention to "the proper utilization and protection of the natural resources for the protection of watershed resources" and "disbursement of conservation funds" "for the purposes of the chapter" (36-A). "the commission shall consist of not less than 3 nor more than 7 (regular members"..."appointed by the selectmen. "Alternate members may be appointed in like manner and when the alternate serves in the absence...of a regular member", (then) "the alternate has full voting powers."

Meeting times: 7:00 p.m. every 2nd Wednesday of month at the Town Hall

Protected shoreland applies to lakes and ponds greater than 10 acres, 4th order streams and rivers, and other designated river protection areas. It includes restrictions and limitations on digging, building, use of fertilizer & herbicides, erosion, siltation, removing trees, vegetation, stumps and rocks as well as limits on % of impervious surfaces (e.g. roofs).

Additional Resources

DES Shoreland Questions - email shoreland@des.nh.gov or call (603) 271-2147 and ask to speak with the Inspector of the Day.

DES Wetland Questions - email lrm@des.nh.gov or call (603) 271-2147 and ask to speak with the Inspector of the Day.

NOTE: If DES determines that your project or actions do not require a DES permit, be sure to get the name of the inspector, date and time of the conversation. Ideally, ask them to provide a written response either via mail or e-mail.