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HomeMy WebLinkAboutTown Forest Past RecordsIi RECORDS OF TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE READING, MASSACHUSETTS The present Town Forest Committee is unable to locate records, or files, of previous years, and is now starting a new record book. Notice of meeting posted on.bulletin board in Municipal Building. Meeting of the Town Forest Committee, Monday evening, December 21, 1964 at 7:30 P.M. In Room 4, Municipal Building, Reading, Mass. This notice shows on back the following stamp: Received Town Clerk Reading, Mass. Dec. 18 11:22 AM 164 Meeting of the Town Forest Committee, December 21, 1964 at 7:30 P.M. in Room 4, Municipal Building, Reading, Mass. Present: Maurice H. Donegan James S. Perry Benjamin E. Nichols Mr. Donegan nominated James S. Perry as Chairman. Fominatioa was seconded by Mr. Nichols, and Mr. ?erry was elected. Mr. Perry took over duties as Chairman. Mr. Nichols was nominated and elected Secretary. Letter of Department of Natural Resources of December 8, 1964 was entered in the records. letter of Board of Selectmen of Reading of December 18, 1964 was entered in the records. The letter of the Department of Natural Resources was discussed, and the Committee will carry out the suggestions as far as possible. The budget for the year of 1965 was discussed and will be given to the Finance Committee for their consideration. The meeting was adjourned at 7 :55 P.M. 12 The annual report of the Town Forest Committee for the year Of 1964 was mailed to Boyd H. Stewart, Municipal Building on January 16, 1965. This report:, reads as follows: To the Citizens of Reading: TO submit our report covering the management of the Town Forest for 1964. The Town Forest Committee lost an active member, and one who loved the forest, when James T. Putnam passed away during the year. He had been a member of the committee si m e 1954. His vacancy was filled by the appointment of Benjamin E. Nichols. The Ordway Pit area has been prepared for planting of seedlings. This is scheduled to be done in the spring of 1965. Additional road was built with a length of 0.3 miles in the Ordway Pit area. The total length of roads in the Town Forest is now 1.8 miles. This does not include paths. The Town Forest Committee has worked with J. Warren %illam II, Town Counsel, on the suit brought against ,ilfred Drinkwater of Melrose seeking a permanent injunction to prevent the removal of material from a lot adjacent to the Town Forest. The Town Forest Committee is concerned with the possibility of large tracks driving through, and harming,the area. Various areas have had the lower limbs removed to allow the trees better growth conditions. This also reduces the ever present fire hazard. The small brush along the roads has been cut. The Boy Scouts of Readirg have actively used during the year the area allotted to them. The boys have learned the care and enjoyment of a forest. liespeotfully submitted, James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Maurice H. Donegan Town Forest Committee 41 :1 r i C ROK11553 PG 12O �Wixa 5 TOWN C L, 4/ ..A01.......... Z M K ZPZCLaL To.i?! =;,,Tlsfi Februa_ 12 196, (9'b ? ,7- rant �w�n aa'1B 3. Cn motlan o£ •amen Putnam i that .he _own dedicate t ^mretofore acquired D he icll owln;; described P 'as ..ardl Cons Y the ec. sex ct1On CO—P-17o.T dul -ad of ncmra ' &xis es, N twee 1353& to t,e tingrTo m Fa^est xndfdeveds 'ookracor a� of forest trees: otc.'. to t. : re Cul- .: certain lot of land situated in Lim of said 3eadirg containia� ele -,-en and .ore or le P!artu.:osterly 1 ss, and bounded and d on& -halt Cll ":) ac Osc ri bed as f <ll rcv, V ner 2— =inair.' at s take and Stan&, at the =ol:owia_o =hence the line as nos; [fer;Derly _ an old Towu or bridle in a Southeasve rl j -or- �r'G,lY of }o-7 d.:nc raft a `aY :'aicC sops ra :es Si direction -- stones at lent late of Jo.v -. I r�:chann Fa :a a. ras ^hen 71esterly D or.. stake Of "f. S.noK�l` to ",. st11 aZa ad gtane,r, load aui 'an .', no;^ Or le rc rather, o_ Tboma, L. Foley 1`n `l fors. ^rle d. = iand to st3-e and ✓: -hen ::O- ti:Orly o_ Sorg. now of [.roses 1!icholsnea at la. -. r; :orr..erl.• of 5io said 3Oiey's -ibbett,, a:d s.oaes ybe tanl oldy aal0roads '. !ti chol, lad'. Co a stake wood course, e, lightlylovihe rly :to talonointm stake +take by brae +71ng, to the of i, tO 134 oted in t!te at£drmative voted is the negative A hive co PY• Attest: I r 1 ) �- 3 3 During the year 1965, an inventory was made of the land in the Town Forest and Tater Supply Development. Maps were obtained, and deeds were located and copies were obtained by the Town Forest Committee. A map of this area was filed in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds, South District, and is recorded in Book 5565 Page 242. This map is in two parts, and the two pages are included in this book between pages No. 4 and Ho. 5. The map is entitled,-Plan of Lands Situated at Hundred Acre Meadow, Great Island, Dividence Swamp & Meadow. Reading, Mass.. Surveyed for The Town of Reading. November 1930.w See page marked 4 -A and 4 -B. Information regarding these various lots is shown below: Lot &o. Acreage - Book and Page 1 2.408 5571 -360 2 2.96 5568 -430 3 5.91 - 5565 -248 5565 -242 4 2.29 5522 -194 5 2.37 5568 -430 5565 -246 6 5.79 5571 -357 7 5.727 5447 -108 5571 -357 Town Meeting 3 -17 -30 Article 29 voted this lot for Town Forest. 8 12.07 5565 -246 June 12, 1931 Fannie C. Nichols 9 1.0 5447 -107 March 25, 1930 Town Forest 10 8.15 5447 -108 Town Meeting 3 -17 -30 Article 29 voted this lot for TownForest. 11 1.42 5571 -360 12 2.441 5565 -244 13 3.446 5806 -183 14 45.23 5447 -108 March 28,1930 Town Forest 15 5.191 Lot 14 and 15 probably covered in same land taking of 50 acres. May be covered by 3074 -263. 14 Lot No. Acreage Book and Page 16 3.99 1284 -517 Nov. 7, 1873 George Parker k 17 3.0 6565 -245 June 15, 1931 Charles A. Loring 1 QR {!Sk 25 Rods 18 12.0 6111 -247 March 19, 1937 Hazen E. Symonds 27 Rode 6121 -396 Town Forest 19 1.575 5565 -248 June 12, 1931 Delia E.Sweatser 20 5.548 10242 -130 April 1, 1963 Lana B. Nichols 10131 -167 Town Forest 10262 -382 Town Meeting 3 -25 -63 Article 51 voted for Town Forest. 21 11.5 9776 -363 July 27, 1959 Campanella & Cardi Town Meeting 2 -12 -62 Article 3 (Ordway Pit) dedicated this lot to the Town Forest. 11553 -120 "Dedication" filed. See map 2age4 -C. 22 9.46 6111 -243 6130 -47 June 15, 1937 &130 -50 Everett W.Stone 23 12.8 5571 -357 June 19, 1931 Refer Town Meeting 3 -17 -30 Article 29 This may be one of areas voted for Torn Forest. See also 5447 -108 24 1.0 5565 -242 IIag.29, 1931 Harvey A., Bancroft 9 Sq.Rode C Ethelyn J. Tibbetts 25. 15.0 5726 -144 May 13, 1933 5726 -146 Meadow Brook Golf Club Corp. 6656 -167 6656 -169 Refer to Plan 475 of 1942 Registered in 6620 -237 26) 27) Not owned by Town.of Reading. 28) 29 145 Sq.Rods 5565 -246 Jane 12, 1931 Fannie C. Nichols 30 1 1/8 10193 -182 Des. 27, 1962 Chester A.Ellison Refer Town Meeting 10 -22 -62 Bought for Town Forest (Continued on Page 18.) Lot No. Acreage Book and Page 31 4.18 10494 -390 10547 -113 Refer Town Meeting Article 55 3 -23 -64 Voted for Town Forest 32 4.206 8538 -297 Town Meeting 4 -11 -55 Article 62 Voted for Town Forest Refer Town Meeting 2 -12 -62 Article 4 Dedicated to Reading Town Forest 33 4.99 7727 -564 34 12.7781 10782 -306 (By Eminent Domain) Voted for Town Forest The annual report of the Town Forest Committee for the year 1965 was submitted to Boyd H. Stewart, Municipal Building. This report reads as follows: To the Citizens of Reading: We submit our report for 1965. Our Town receives multiple benefits from our Town Forest in the fields of Tatershed Protect ion,,Educational Activities and Recreational Activities. It is good to preserve scenic beauty for its own sake. The Town Forest Committea will greatly miss Edmund M. Collins who died November 8, 1965. He loved the Town Forest, and . taught this love of nature to young and old. He kept watch for anyone who might harm the area. Many of the programs carried out in the Town Forest were started by him. Our Committee put an Article in the Town Warrant for the Annual Town Meeting in March 1965 to see if the Town would take by right of eminent domain the so called Fteree land of approximately twelve acres, which abutted the Town Forest at the Northeast Corner. This was voted, and proceedings were started by our Town Counsel. This land had been in error granted to the use of the Reading Boy Scouts on October 27, 1955. The Town voted the sum of $1,500.00 for the further develop- ment and maintenance of the Town Forest. Using the recommendations of our State Forester, an area of seven acres was mechanically thinned. This will allow the remaining trees to grow at a more rapid rate, and become more valuable. This was done in cooperation with the United States Department of Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service, and for which the Town was reimbursed $154.00. I During dry seasons a fire watch has been in force, and prior to the Christmas season, a watch has been kept to protect loss and damage to pine and spruce trees. The Committee has obtained for their records, maps and copies of deeds to the various lots of the Town Forest. The ladies of the Reading Garden Club have run gaided tours and bird walks in the Town Forest daring the year. They have planted and cared for wild flowers and shrubs in suitable areas. The Boy Scouts dug a water hole so the ladies could water their new plants. The Boy Scouts have used the new area which had been assigned to them by the Selectmen oa August 20, 1962. They hiked and studied conservation and nature in the whole Forest. Cleaning land and removing dead limbs has been their Good Turn. The Town Forest Committee has worked closely with the Conservation Commission for the benefit of all persons in Reading,,not only for the present, but also for fhture generations. Respectfully submitted, James F. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, secretary Maurice H. Donegan Tam Forest Committee Notice of regular meeting of Town Forest Committee to be held at Fire Station No. 2, 267 Woburn Street, Reading, Mass. onSaturday, April E. 1966 at 10=00 AM was posted on bulletin board in Town Building. L'eeting was held as scheduled with following members present: James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Maurice H. Donegan The committee was organized for year of 1966 with the same persona holding the same offices. Tj1e Secretary's report of the meeting of December 21, 1% 4 ' was read and approved. A motion was made, seconded and voted on to continue the practice of town forest improvement in 1966, as reoommended by Willard H. Estee, Jr., Forester for the Division of Forests and Parks, Department of Natural Resourees, The Commonwealth of Massachusetts in his letter of December 8, 1964. This letter is included in this book between Pages No. 6, and No. 7. �ouTE ti/�4P Of' R�- f(p�iVG 7"OLVN FoR�S7" OC TOBER 1.9S5 1141al / E H OONE C/ ✓,9hlES T. PUTN�� SEG. S Z y 0 oRTN N GK �t S �! G w ,tNp IV,4 �6a rlod Rp R tVER Q` GRRYEL P /7"R�'�D s 0 -�• CC 4 2 4 u Z Q i 00 .o N I L ,11 Y 0 r y H 0 Q o C 3 w � a- m 3 U �e F« m L m E$o a m o ° _ o m o C o d Lm r4 CI M F 1A 9m q H 0 Q o C 3 w � a- m 3 U �e ° _ o m o C o d �N r4 CI M a 1A 11 { A Lf�b eY OO<( �sdeM Of° x 4 i i 4 3 f f 1 e 1 11 { A Lf�b eY OO<( �sdeM Of° x 4 i i 4 3 }p �e I red' 1 d Qo � sGll�i � • euse�is t O Q A ?sy N TSwVnr� Im1n a 4 FY E� Il U+°�: �t � �v•..,u I1yY_), �Tt° e`d' �Z 2��.2 qj4 4 `y,�pV I �u�y 1 Im v Q6t �i P4 i C Crvh /n° q a0 a ok yew a i it ! q k Py _ Q u 0 1 a ee t� 4 �Qag Vw �e au Qa 0 6 ISCnLE pFGTNAS pL <NI N FEET.1 loo 0 50 20_ —_ 0 �J00 i� y3 Y 0 a wr+' ,Z88 EsseX s� f�a wri Ad'I/r* /& 4s . % ji't' �aee be�f %%acYrKS� MnsS. • JIL 4z d J. P a 'zil u k (� ti .. Q � X14 i �/'IlU/77.8�UIdCQ�,l// �/ �i l�(.11dQll,Cfl,UdP.ftQ� �ne/zG e�i /5.Yi41h,CQidssv,/'lrrce, /FJJIX1{.6� OP /OB � � f 16A-L lot 0 2y i Zwow,, ,za�7u�Pa���ac�iueeCtd Akim� "21n- w, �� ti� 7 The sum of $1,500.00 was voted by the Annual Town Meeting in March 1966 for town forest improvements. A formal request was filed on January 14, 1966 with the United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service for partial reimbursement of costs for "Forest Improvement" for the Program Year 1966. The problem of maintaining a "Fire Watch" during the fishing season;, which opens Jlydl 16, 1966 was discussed. Men will be hired to work on forest improvement during this period, and will maintain a "Fire watch" as part of their duties. Current bills were approved covering chain saw maintenance. During the late winter, there were heavy wet snow conditions which bent some of the white and red pines. An inspection of the Forest shows that after the snow had melted from the trees, most of them went baok to an upright condition, and the trees came through in very good shape. Only a few trees were broken completely, and these had to be removed. The meeting was adjourned at ll :05 AM. May 19, 1966 The Reading Chronicle carried the following article: BOY SCOUTS PLANT TREES III FOREST Four hundred trees were planted in the Reading Town Forest by Boy Scouts of Troop 702 on Saturday. These were added to the many thousand trees which have been similarly planted since the Town Forest was started in April 1936. (The correct irate is 1930) Craig Blockwick planned and carried out this project. The Boy Scouts working with him included: Don Gagnon, Stan Bales,Chris Bales, Tom Darrin, Steve Carter, Jim Halfyard, Jackie Webster and Gary Hultgren. The riwanis Club furnished the small saplings. There were one hundred each of Red Pine, 77hite Spruce, Norway Spruce and Balsam Fir. Tree Warden Lonegan chose a seotion in the Ordway :it Area of the Town Forest for the Planting. Mr. Donegan is a member of the Town Forest Committee, and the other two members of this Committee, Fire Chief James Perry and Benjamin Nichols helped the Scouts in this conservation program. r September 22, 1966 The Reading Chronicle carried the following articles Local Bird Walk in Town Forest An Autumn Bird Walk in The Reading Town Forest will be held Sept. 24, from 8 :30 to 10 :30 A.M. Those intereste8 will meet at the pumping station. Strout Ave. David G81vin and Peter Iyster, who are leading the walk, have scouted the area and the fall migration has already I began and brought many interesting birds. These are Palm Warblers, Pine " Warblers and the rare black throated Green Warblers. These walks are sponsored by the Reading Garden Club and Reading Conservation Commission. The annual report of the Town Forest Committee for the year 1966 was submitted to Boyd R. Stewart, Munioipal Building. This report reads as follows: To the Citizens of Reading: We submit our report for 1966. The long term program of thinning the trees has been continued, using the reoommendations of our Mate Forester. This was done in cooperation with the United States Department Of Agricultural Stabilization and Conservatism Service, and for which the Town was reimbursed $200.00. As the years go by the remaining trees will become more valuable. The fire watch has been continued this year under the oars of Mr. Charles Stratton. The Town voted the same of $1,500.00 for the further development and maintenance of the Town Forest. The laddea of the Reading Garden Club held their annual plant Flower Trail ihichoiseintaMSecludedwareadeast of the Council Ring. This is another long term project which is added to yearly. Groups of ladies of the Town have ran bird walks in the ' Town Forest. They have watched and studied the various birds in the different seasons of the year. The Boy Scouts planted four hundred trees in the Ordway Pit Area on May 14, 1966. These saplings, which indluded one hundred each of Red Pine, White Spruce, Norway Spruce and Balsam Fir were furnished by the Biwands Club or Reading. Some day these will make a fine addition to the Reading Town Forest. The Boy Scouts did other Service and Conservation Projects in the Town Forest during the year. si (annual report for 1966 continued) The Reading Chronicle recognized the work being done in their editorial on April 14, 1966 which said: "We visited the Reading Tarn Forest this week, and while there observed the forest improvement being conducted by the Town Forest Committee with the cooperation and assistance of the U, S. Department of Agriculture. "We extend our congratulations to the Town Forest Committee for its intelligence and vision in carrying out a program which can 7e ad nowhere else but to the creation of an ultimately highly valued natural asset. "The improvement and:.management of the Town Forest is probably Reading government's least publicised project and, for value received, its least appreciated. "We predict this situation may change some day in the not too distant future. In a relatively short time Reading will no longer be a suburb of Greater Boston; instead it will be in the core of Greater Boston. At that time our children will deeply appreciate the work being done by our Town Forest Committee today." Your committee will continue to work for the benefit of all persons in Reading in the continuing development of the Town Forest. Respectfully submitted, James S. Parry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Maurice R. Donegan Report of meeting of Town Forest Committee. January 3U, 1967 7:30 PM Room 1, Municipal Building A notice of this meeting had been posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building. Meeting was called to order by Chairman James S. Perry. Present at meeting: James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Niohols, Secretary Maurice R. Donegan Chairman Perry stated that the unexpended balance of the Town Forest Committee for the year of 1966 is $23.07. The budget for the year of 1967 to be submitted to Town Meeting was read and approved. It is shown below: (continued on Page 10. 10 (continued from Page 9.) Town Forest budget for 1967. Appropriation Expended Estimated Balance and Transfer in 1966 1967 Forwarded 1966 to 1967 Balance $23.07 to 1966 $20.04 Appropriate Appropriation 1500.00 0170o.ou ' Federal Grant 200.00 $i7Fo -.b3 $1696.97 $1700.00 M. H. Donegan moved and B. E. Nichols seconded that Chairman Perry be authorized to contact U. S.Department of Agriculture for the annual grant by them for development work under "B- 10'Practices." It was so voted. B. E. Nichols moved and M. H. Donegan seconded that an article be plaoed in Town Warrant for Annual Town Meeting in March 1967 to "Dedicate" to the Town Forest a piece of land taken by the Town by foreclosure of tax lien, known as the Nichols Woodlot. On January 10,1940 a decree was entered and notice of final disposition is recorded in Book 6361, Page 524 in records of Registry of Deeds of South Middlesex. It was so voted. B. E. Nichols moved and M. H. Donegan seconded to confirm the authorization to H. X. Abbott, Registered Surveyor, to do the necessary field and office work to furnish plane, prints, bearings and distances of land offered for sale to Town of Reading. This is land of Grace D. Bancroft, which is in two parcels and appears in Middlesex South District Deeds, Book 8929, Page 601. The family of Grace D.Banoroft would like to have these parcels became part of the Town Forest. It was so voted. M. H. Donegan moved and B. E. Nichols seconded to place articles in the Town Warrant to see if the Town will acquire the land about which Dennison Bancroft wrote on January 21, 1967, The committee will recommend, on suggestion of Town Counsel Yarren %illam, that $750.00 be raised and appropriated for each parcel to oover the total purchase cost of 4500.u0, plus survey, appraisal, legal and other costa. It was so voted. The meeting was adjourned at 7:65 PM. The le tter of Dennison Bancroft is included in thia book I between pages No. 10 and No. 11, and is marked 10 -A. COLBY COLLEGE WATERVILLE. MAINE January 21, 1967 DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY Mr. Benjamin E. Nichols 25 Avon Street Reading, Massachusetts 01867 Dear Mr. Nichols; This letter declares my intention to recommend to my mother, Grace D. Bancroft, of Mercer Island, Washington, that she sell to the Town of Reading for the sum of $500.00 two parcels of land situated respectively in the northwestern and northern parts of Reading, and described in a deed to her, recorded with Middlesex South District Deeds, Book 8929, page 601. Further, should my mother die or become incapacitated before the Town of Reading offers to purchase the land, I shall recommend to her legatees that they sell the land to the town for the said sum of $500.00. Very truly �yours, ���`,'''� /{,/�„( Dennis so Bancroft � DB:fk lU d.AI. ON ILE1 V1Wt�1�� IIIr 0 50 100 209 300 I O J O O � m to .0 h r7 , U 1U V i-� 16 -C 6� °f ro ru g mqE� 14 L Y m y, W G O O � N Ma(rp�W iZU:{/alA{Q } I �y (C ,v lab '•' •� / i •3 ofd gs+ysNY c o d uwl uo °t'�Q1�U\.�O yQ cµlo'\ }s PUa 2� o 0 wy m w \4 I v ,mj T X T v ba 0 tl N O :J 1 - ' ry na iv 4� It d �. { c0 0 4 0Y p � m u `v mg C 0L n _C V C —0 C U r %8 cg�� u CC c k C h L C V .TQQ � 11yj. N 7 6� °f ro ru g mqE� 14 L Y m y, W G O O � N Ma(rp�W iZU:{/alA{Q } I �y (C ,v lab '•' •� / i •3 ofd gs+ysNY c o d uwl uo °t'�Q1�U\.�O yQ cµlo'\ }s PUa 2� o 0 wy m w \4 I v ,mj T X T v ba 0 tl N O :J 1 - ' ry na iv e I rm ,rly Cl:erla! Waka'Fietd Ea} er. !. )31,giJp E. _ S.W -ICE. 2 f ♦�f 151.!] \\ �y�+' imul�F) b \f,]•' 1 \ \f' Sr � \6 I ff+c�y.... 1 i 10 -D 1 iz i Y, 1 - q pal' 1/" t L Ik10tr4 A. Nicfi =b eYd \" 4. Y i. l t + h {m T vm d Reading \\` U 75 Is leC 6)4I'fxt `� \I) TQ n a`. E "} Area A to+ A 14 ^ m 'A ,n NIAAIeuf Re91sM Of Oredt 50- Disl. W U �` n CAMBPIME hI ` ¢ Pan AUC, Bis - .1 1966 a No.ul IAUG. 9f 1pp9��ba Nal hj20 .m � � •Co b1 \ 1 3 WTCWN or- ADLNG �' = a 1553 Paee 121 � 'o eF~3 WA ax. L Y Pewlde0 Bookl x� C** Autsu Ara)•2AZl °Ac.',e' � n,�0�30 To+al Area 8.59 ' Aere! R f I�PP` \ \9f.17'1111� �M &\ 7'01 j a S�Ncf° I.V J.72 Mme, MaR of land! in ,x W�rW Fienemann Henry W. Fieaema•.n ZZ, Read i r. F ae MMir /w.r y Wnick cb C.m711ad -Rrsm e— eon+ surveys and Show- of ten;, plate )Ilq land exF +Y)LO +A) and App,- s�*_`e�94�i'- — of Reading i Xt- „oee Gr °ca. D. Oancrof+ T C4 j. and drawn —r r +F)e v Conaerva+ iosn�lm 1 n SO-F+. Mar. 14.1%4 Reg�S��aveyo�6Readli>� 1. I'LI GINAL ON 4ILE.1 L :.I r nl FaG 11 AN N YEE n 0 50 loo MO 100 , -rf 11 Q P a S xJ I •� C ° e� 1 9 � ` y ``\� V140.7 C? 140. O� 5. I � o \ o, \ A / W - ;♦ o• � I` .. Dlvdcnce I]Isnd ,.dEl �" \I MiREblu ReQrip of OxeE., QR. pK ♦ CAYRRI� ^E, MAST. RkaFlea.tnm!7m ri . O.V Acres saR A A 1 tiler tha l I M '.1 l" 1 c n'� L ,.,• z\ 7/967. 0 ♦ N e x y 0 Z 5 � 5. txS_ ♦ 0 A ;♦ V b � I` .. Dlvdcnce I]Isnd ,.dEl �" \I f O.V Acres saR A A 1 tiler tha l I M '.1 l" 1 c n'� L ,.,• z\ 7/967. 0 ♦ N e x y 0 Z ^01Wd °noa,V,a��>��_�e �Ap= g�5%� /tt� i FEE PLAN No. 1 plegof lend In Readi n4� +e be conveyed +o +6c. InhabSt°n1s o4 the Town eF Reading L°r Town Foes+ Purposes Jan.27.rAl Srale:lis +loo {eet NJp man Ab� 5 � 5. 9 .} V b � I` ♦ J. Y Y I ^01Wd °noa,V,a��>��_�e �Ap= g�5%� /tt� i FEE PLAN No. 1 plegof lend In Readi n4� +e be conveyed +o +6c. InhabSt°n1s o4 the Town eF Reading L°r Town Foes+ Purposes Jan.27.rAl Srale:lis +loo {eet NJp man Ab� +ta Pla,d�'1aM 1 iwu�3 J , Q � r 0 r J i xt ;0 C 0 N I �• c ,a .a N as � O U \` e V a N e Y L �y o [ N � r � c ti LL . 3 � L U S la -8 OAIIII ,i - 1i "'W, U bbl CAM[iROCr G, l fit Pao .Q. �r C '0 u u o J u N �r C 40 i C N mJ J t r y 0 d 4 0 O [ } + r N a c A- -�. S � uyyxy,y„ ,( fEE3,0o j M �wp � C 10 -G Received of the Town of Reading $273.21 representing $250.00 for an 8.27 acres more or less of land shown on "Plan No. 1 - Plan of Land in Reading to be conveyed to the Inhabitants of the Town of Reading for Town Forest Purposes ", dated Jan. 27, 1967, together with $23.21, such amount being a proportionate share of the taxes assessed on this parcel; also $256.85 being the value of 2.446 acres, more or less, shown on "Plan No. 2 - Plan of Land in Reading to be conveyed to the Inhabitants of the Town of Reading for Town Forest Purposes ", dated Jan. 28, 1967, and $6.85 being a proportionate share of the real estate taxes assessed on this parcel. Said amounts being in full payment of said parcels. Grace D. Bancroft 19. V tl ss 01 61 d3S 5�. 1867 1'I1sfA a. 14,139.32$ 14,139.32 .1. 1. 2h. To s u the Town Audit of Municipal Accounts . -- _- .___......._..._._.. As Fixed by Fin. Com . we sell live nr to Gear {e P. Forbes ma v3r {aids Pomp Hum, o their mums - Examination of Retirement System __. __...... __..... Asaeawrs 1988 Est. 1 %7 ore, a p =n +ln •reel of land ewmea TOWN: APPROPRIATIONS �'��.... 51,828.24 51,82824 on xnpgl +e street, a=Xrib=a in felt..: BeQlanin{ m me Town line betwaim Departmental Appropriations an an era $ 9,898,952.28$ 5,044,532.59 a=.emg +na wekenea ov the Norcheam- Special Articles ._ _ _........._._.. _ .._ i..... 371,435.51 545,033.78 eiueline of HopRlna Street [h< line we line Payment on Town Debt (ezcludin )_.__. .. a A ht) 289,000.00 280,000.00 prim mud, br the Nonhmmer et xopkin9 street about m.od t m a point Interest on Town Debt (excluding Water A Light) 79,442.50 71,531.25 the the Westerly sideline of Fourth strait; Sewer Construction ..__....._._ __._.._.._____........__....... 150,000.00 150,000.00 Theme by the We+mrly sideline of said Street Betterments ...................... ............ .._.......___.._. 2,235.000 50.00 Fourth Street about 35,01) feet m a line which is 5000 feet North of Me aforo- ....... Underestimates ..._..........._._.nts ._ __.._._.........__._.... 8,889.79 36,753.61 commea Town fine $ 5,791,065.29 $ 6,091,147.57 v nAeva by land owned, by em Town of Parks and Reservations _...... _ _ _ . $ 14,139.32$ 14,139.32 Fourtn, Fab and sixth streets about 613N feet to land owned by Grove P. Audit of Municipal Accounts . -- _- .___......._..._._.. 675.21 67521 For o et al. Examination of Retirement System __. __...... __..... 136.40 136.40 Thence by land of said Forbes, et al Metropolitan Sewers _ _ _ _. _._ 51,828.24 51,82824 sum feet m the Town clue. Motor Vehicle Exelse filling Cost ...___ ... _.... 1,666.95 1,666.95 name on the said Town cme between wants Reants and Wakefield, by the Town of Metropolitan Area Planning Council _......_ -. _...__ 865.01 865.01 about 603.0 toff to the point .._ .................... ............._...__._......_._. M.B.T.A. . _...__......_ 104206 1,042.06 of begiming. COUNTY: ASSESSMENTS . containing about 3oA00 sq. ff., shown pn a 1m by Middlesex Survey Scrwce, ...._.__.. _. Court Tax ...... 140,785.06 140,785.% dame i str 20 1563 m b= -aides, m Tuberculosis Hospital 2,717.25 2,77725 what l will ao m relation thercm ....... Underestimates ..._..........._._.nts ._ __.._._.........__._.... 8,889.79 36,753.61 Raymond R. coumr= and others OVERLAY: Reserve for Abatements ... ............................... 104,28'2.24 155,553.17 No Action Deficit Preceding Year ..... ._....__.........._.... 8.366.91 21,414.84 ARTICLE 73. fee a Or Town will DEFIfor FREE CASH DEFICIT .....___..._._.... .._..._.....___......_......... 37,317.00 p, W a al and the Map of Me to amend me xnning n of Reading Me Town of Reading hanion e $ 6,163,776.23$ Q518,748.69 from Residence Bed Insurer tto`Residence ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND AVAILABLE FUNDS E -I loodar. Bro m firs at a pomf on the south. State Taxes, School Fund Distribution $ 425,034.33 $ 510,000.00 westerly sideline of summer Avenue at State Taxes, Valuation Basis Distribution ................ 269,94629 269,84629 Welfrotoywith Rome life 28 e48II rung feet State Taxes, Corporation Excise and Other ...._...... 181,544.56 181,544.56 (48.22) State Meals Tax ......_ ..... ...._._......_....__.______ _ 6,874.98 6,874.98 Thetas Southwesterly still by Route School Construction Grants ._..__.__._ """"'"""' 113,808.94 113,808.94 129. 219.'76 feet to the Reamg -Wake- ----- Revenue from Water Department ._.__________._..... 333,660.00 336,000.00 held town line name by the town Ilne nu; feet more Revenue from Sewer Rentals ........ 61,074.11 62,800.73 or lad m lead of the U.S.A. Light Department, in Lieu of Taxes _ g P _...__.__._...._ 200,014.78 266,551.43 Then a Naturally by land of the U.S.A. Motor Vehicle Excise ................_ _...____....................... 934,187.00 458.286.00 482• plus or minus Them- Elony by bona of the U.S.A. School Department Receipts ........ ......._...__.__._.._. 9,603.00 15,232.87 115' plus or Minna Other General Receipts - ............. __..._ 1 66,181.49 23OX6.45 Th en- Formerly by land of the U.S.A. State Assessments overestimated .._._. ..... 2,933.42 6,524.33 16obeeuese Westerly by lane of the USA. 165• plm cr Minus to Sum Street $ 2,204.762.%$ 2,45$,346•.58 Thence NottbatlY by sixth Street 200• TRANSFERS: nmtheu minus ass plus or Minus Rd. Mach. Fund. to Rd. Mach. Oper. Acct., AR, 33$ 56,61722$ 61,226.85 So am imal. point Cemetery Reserve to Cemetery Maim., Art. 63 ........ 3,000.00 3,200.00 Hove. South ...mtl, 4a• lea - mmm an—. of dal GommoMvM M of Massa - Overlay Surplus to Reserve Fund 40,000.00 23,600.00 wn... Dividend Reserved to Group Insurance .................... 2,750.20 3,543.00 name Nonidentical, IS, lead of the Light Dept. to Pensions and Group Insurance ........ 46,33520 51,133.95 �MOmwealth 50 met m the Sandoval- sideline of Summer Avenue State Library Aid to Library Salaries ........................ 4,814.75 4,814.75 "even by the Sauthwemeey sideline Water Available Surplus to Water Construction .... 78,600.00 7,402.50 of Summer Avenue 15.35 fear an the Chapt. 679 Funds to Road Construction ......._........_. 28,778.54 26,778.54 point of beginning. mmua e Covttlnmg 10 true plus or Various Special Accounts to Other Accounts ........ 1,300.00 5,75252 mown on a -Compiled Plan of Land in Rmding Mana,^ Scale to malls Inc. $ 262,195.91$ 189,452.11 May 3, 1565; Middlesex Survey Service. ` 4 Federal Man. SURPLUS REVENUE TO: Will d 1. mod or what fie Will do relation Nereid. Sewer Art % ......... ......_.A $ 150,000.00 R. boo d R. emmmre and mibene R Chapt. 90 Maintenance Maintenance and Conan pun, A ' .... 30,900.00 30,900.00 No Action Be Street Betterments, Art. 41 ........ y.... Drainage Construction ....___.._\,........ 2,235.00 38,000.00 50.00 ARTICLE 39. gee if Town will ................ y rew by right eminm.,abuse ale`or Too , $ 221,135.00$ 30,950.00 wise for the purpose of mli ms .aid Total Estimated Receipts and Available Fantle .._........ $ 2.688.093.81$ 2.678,748.69 aam 1. ffowhat stmt thet Town will relee, Net Amount to be Raised by Taxation ............... _._ ... _ ....... $ 3,475,682.42 $ 3,840,000.00 �efeipfr maaavaIm. 'he ae. levy or Value of Real Estate and Personal Property _.....__._----- $ 89,119,733.00$=000,000.00 iam for too purpose of anuhmg the Tax Rate ..... .......................................... ...................._....___... 39.00 32.00 tdl1. l d.. Met land, nt what a an] ao iv rcladon thereto: as of ado land i Me part of Reading Iivl- aaed, ad being uefcabed as fallow.: NeNed rly corner Id point being N 1°- distance of 54.00 feet from pile off som. moo thm..mly i Town, and from hen a he °- 24• -30^ e., by land of the aMwrrer at land ofaGeorge iB- l4•-m^ E., by laud of n D M cMim. and moral Meade distance an angle In. act in a large 38 °80• W., a distance of zi °- se'lew.aa distance of of commission Recommend $500.00 Recommend MENTY -POUR TOWN OP READING ARTICLE 80. To see if the Town will ARTICLE 81. To me if the Town me to squire be purchase, right of will v°h to Otnwl. by candonm, si O, of i :mine t domain, deed of If It o other- eminent domain, deed f gift, r M1er- vsu for Town Forest purposes Me f°1- wine for Town Forest purPmas the lot - owiveg dacrlbed Parcel f lantl9 end lowing tleuribed parcel of landeml b what m Me Town win ray e d see hat a Ne Town dl .air sad F Limminiam from the tax levy or tnnshr ppropnate from the tax levy or trans �FEPOR1 variable Nnda entl apPS'Opdett for ter from available funds and appropriate he purpose of acquiring the following foe me gairose of acquiring the following vailable lend o hat 1 add do in re- r available land or what it will do in t "° °,rant° Beginning 1 the northeasterly r the at a drill hole In iB ginning et atone bound at the 'a n`here'° mrthemterly co ne o[ @e slanted r rNweserly FINANCF COMMITTEE if gnnted µremises s rove at the estcdy end of Dam at premises et [he m er of l other land of Me id Town of Reading. 18vd of Harry K. Romblon, From thence Me line runs 8. 00° -01' -30^ Fram thence the line run S. U °- 28' -2P' E., by land f Hillcrest Really Inc., a dii- W., by food f Henry Jr. Fienemann a of 318.59 feet to an iron Pipe in dirtenco of ]8658 feet to a wall at o'be' ON domes and at m angle; land of mid Fienemann: other tY , by Thence by said wall and land of Fiem- la �enfeihe Hi1c�t20" a n N. R °J5' -30" W., a distanre f bntt of 221.80 feef to an angle iron in 156.19 feet to land of the Towa of Read - Theme S. 65 ° -56' W., a distance of mo awned by Herbert A. Nichols et al; ANNUAL WARRANT 32.31 iron Pipe I. stones; 92T1 feel Then. turning tl running N. 16°-26' - uol S. Thena S. 28 °A9' -50 W., a disa"' by said lend the Town of of 3M.45 but to on pipe stands Read g a ,fist c of ]83.69 feet to Re I. set n the a of us the pile f scones t lend formerly of 5 --My so Cant, o distance I Thence Sw ]an the of Esnesl T. feet M e angle it n stones; an lei n y load hence ' E., by land of s' d Thence 5. W. a distance Then< N. Lto a distmm of felt to the Estate distance an Two in somes; A 2]3]A Po[[ to red domes; f be bound at the Point of bemoaning. nd Thenm N. 19 °- 2A'1P' W.e a of ra 2 mix r less. Containio-ore 175.31 fa[ to an iron and t the edge ^f and being Nlly shown W,n a adow: tlXed Plan No. , — Plan f Lantl Thence N. 9°_10' E., a distance of Reading to be Yea to the Nlolbl- 10].20 feet to an i d: face f theTOwn of Reeding for Town 90 Thence N. 64°.22' -50" E., a distance Forest Pmpous ". dated Jan. 29. 1967. c of 20019 feet to a I more t at IM1e f Me ha dlmd.roAll f the eMve of aid Plan being file N ih< oRlces of the To— Foreu CommiXee of iM1< Town d .{ ides thie de, t... lines n by land of the said Hill rest Realty 1— of Reading and Ming fall Of cr otion. a The e byy d of Me Town o'R ad- to ' Thi parcel bei B the same µrcmi9es Is by Emory bm Win: a iearsnv of N. Y•AIeQ eixa a 10" F_ a dls Pta:alr2 awn conveyed .n A. Moursft dated March A, mws°wr Remmmerld $750.00 -- Rending Town Forest Cerand"ee Recommend $750AD TOWN OF READING MASSACHUSETTS - 9 % - — Please Bring This Report WITH You To Town Meeting — April 15, 1967 The Adjourned Annual Town Meeting was continued on Saturday morning, April 15, 1967. Article 78 was submitted by the Reading Conservation Commission to add a lot of unknown owners containing 3.302 acres of land, more or less, to the Town Forest. This article was voted unanimously in favor, with a quorum present. This is lot No. 36 in'"Area Map of Lands Situated in the Hundred Acre Meadow -Great Island- Dividenoe Swamp & Meadow, Reading,Mass. Compiled by Town of Reading; -Board of Public Works- Engineering Division for Town Forest and Water Supply Development. April, 1966 Scale: 1 in. =200 ft." A map covering this lot is included in this log book of the Town Forest Committee, and is marked 10 -0. This land was formally taken by the Selectmen and the necessary papers were filed in the Registry of Deeds in Southern Middlesex in Book 11313 Page 166, April 20, 1967. Articles 79, 8u and 81 ware suumitted by the heading Town Forest Committee. The detail of them is shown on the pages of the Finance Committee Report which is included in this log book, and 1s marked 10 -B. James S. Perry, Chairman, Reading Torn Forest Committee read Article 79 before the Town Meeting, and moved its adoption, which would "Dedicate" the so called "Nichols Woodlot" to the Reading Tarn Forest. He spoke briefly on the benefits to be derived from the addition of the land to the Town Forest. He then introduced Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary of the Town Forest Committee for his remarks. Mr. Nichols spoke as follows: Mr. Moderator and Town Meeting Members. Articles 79, 80 and 81 were placed in the 'warrant by the Town Forest Committee, of which I em the secretary. I realise we are nearing the end of the Town Meeting, and will make my remarks as short as possible. These three articles are closely related, but for legal reasons were submitted separately. With your permission, I will give the background of them as a group. The Board of Public Works and the Town Forest Committee have worked closely since November 1930 when a map was drawn entitled, "Plan of Lands Situated at Hundred Acre Meadow, Great Island, Dividence Swamp & Meadow, Surveyed for Torn of Reading Town Forest & Water Supply Development." They have worked together for the good of all the Town. As land became available, it nas been added to the town owned properties for both purposes. 12 Recently the demand for water in the Town has made it necessary to plan for future water areas, and surrounding Town Forest land which would protect tnis water shed, as well as to continue the benefits that accrue from a Turn Forest. Representatives of the Board of Public 7orke and Town Forest Committee recently studied the available areas which might be added. Three lots of land which are in these Town Meeting articles were the logical ones to acquire. Article 79 contains approximately six acres of woodlot I Which the Town took for taxes, and foreclosure was recorded in 1940. Thus the Town has had title to this land for 27 years,'and it would appear no one has applied to purchase it in all these years. It appears in the "Tax Title Account" record book in the Town Building. Two years ago on March 29th, the Town Clerk wrote on this Page, "DO Not Sell. Hold for Tarn Forest." The Conservation Commission was interested in using this land for town uses, and had a plan drawn by H. Kingman Abbott, Reg. Surveyor, and this is dated March 14, 1964. (Note: A copy of this map is in this log book marked 10 -D) The Camp Fire Girls were interest in using this land as shown by an extract from the Board of Selectmen's meeting on May 18, 1964, as which the following members were present: C. Dewey Smith, Chairman W. Franklin Burnham, Secretary Robert A. Curtis The extract reads as follows: "Chief Perry stated that he has had a request by the Camp Fire Girls for permission to use a parcel of town owned land on the same basis as the Boy Snouts use land in the Tovm ecx est. Mr. Curtis moved that they be granted permission to use the piece of land designated by Chief Perry subject to the same rules and regulations which govern the use by the Boy Scouts. it was so voted." Chief Perry has signed a letter showing that the land designated for use by the Camp Fire Girls is the lend in Article 79. Copies of Camp Fire Girls correspondence also confirm this. Your Town Forest Committee submlttec an article for the ' Special Town Meeting to be held in December 1965 to "Dedicate" this same lend to the Town Forest. This was signed and submitted in legal form. There were objections to this article by a group which wanted to have it for the use of their own group, and strong suggestions were made to the Town Fcreet Committee to remove the article from the garrant. The article was removed. 13 We have again submitted the article to "Dedicate" this same Woodlot, and believe the Town Meeting Members will vote this land for the benefit of all the people in our Town. Articles 80 and 81 also have an interesting history. These are two pieces owned by Mrs. Grace D.Bancroft. One is an island of ep proximately eight acres surrounded ' by a swamp. This has a common boundary with the present Torn 'sorest of 592 feet. This is only about 325 feet 'lest across the swamp from the woodlot of Article 79. The other piece of two acres adjoins the woodlot on the easterly side. These pieces formerly belonged to Mrs. Bancroft's husband, Edward. Mrs. Bancroft is now 92 years of age, and lives in Washington State. Her daughter lives in Mercere Island, 'ffaahington and a son lives in 'Waterville, Maine. I talked to both of them on the telephone on Januar,v 12th of this year, and both of them thought it a wonderful ices, for their family woodlands to become pest of the Town Forest, so it would famaim- forever the way it now is. They had considered giving it to the Audubon Society. As far back as November 22, 1965 which I talked with the Bancroft family in Waterville, I received the same feeling they wanted to leave the land in its present state. They said they would recommend to their mother that she sell this land to the Town for a small amount. This was confirmed in a letter from Dennison Bancroft of January 21st of this year, with an amount of $500.00 total for both pieces. The Town Forest Committee had the land surveyed and necessary plane and detail drawn for the articles No. 80 and 81. These articles were discussed with the whole Board of Public Works at a regular meeting, and the Board gave their whole- hearted sup,?ort as both of these pieces will be of great benefit for water shed areas. The Finaxn a Committee in their report, a copy of which was mailed to all of you as Town Meeting members on March 9th, recommends these two articles, as well as the "Dedication" of article No. 79. The Town Forest Committee had heard no objections regarding any of these articles until we learned on Tuesday, March 21st that the Bancroft family both in Maine and 'Washington State had received a telephone call on Monday, March 20th, the first day of the Town Meeting, offering to purchase these same two pieces for the same group that wanted the land in Article 79 a year ago. This offer was for $1,000., or twice what the Bancroft family had agreed to. The Bancroft family got together onthe telephone on the evening of March 20th after they had received the offer, and decided that they still wanted the land to be sold to the Town for the purpose previously discussed, and that they would honor their letter to me of January 21st. They agree this amounts to a gift on their part, and t:. is is what they want to do. Mr. Dennison Bancroft telephoned me late Tuesday evening, March 21st, with this information. 14 If the land in these three parcels had gone into private ownership, or in the ownership of a private group, then it would be possible for them to sell the land at any time. If the Town ever needed this land for water purposes, they might find the land was impossible to bbtain. Knowing that the total money requested for these three parcels amounting to over sixteen acres is only ' 01500., it would appear to be a good investment for the Town at this time. I believe you will want to vote in favor of the "Dedication" of the land in Article 79, and the purchase of the lend in Articles 80 and 81. I thank you. Article 79 was voted unanimously with a quorum present. The land in Article 79 is shown on a map in this log book and is marked 10 -D, and is Lot No. 39 in "Area Map" described above;. The original of this map now carries the notation that this lot was "Dedddated" to the Town Forest. Chairman James S. Perry read in turn Articles 80 and 81, and moved the sum-of X750.00 be raised and ep propriated for each article. Both articles were voted unanimously with a quorum present. The land in Article 80 was formally taken by the Selectmen and the necessary papers were filed in the Registry of Deeds in Southern Middlesex in Book 11313 Page 160, April 20, 1967. A map covering this land is included in this log book of the Town Forest Committee, and is marked 10 -E. The deed is registered in'Book 11395 Page 423. The land in Article 81 was formally taken by the 6alectmen and the necessary papers were filed in the Registry of Deeds in Southern Middlesex in Book 11313 Page 163, April 20, 1967. A m@p covering this land is included in this log book of the Town Forest Committee, and is marked 10 -F. The deed is registered in Book 11391 Page 426. A copy of the receipt for payment of the land in Articles 80 and 81 sdgnedby Grace D. Bancroft is included in this log book and is marked 10 -G. :here is no date on this receipt. Thus, the Town acquired four fine pieces of land for the Tarn Forest. Fature years will prove the soundness of this addition of the land to the Town Forest. 15 May 6, 1967 The Reading Junior Chamber of Commerce has each year a project for the benefit of their community. This year their project was a work day, Saturday, May 6, 1967, in the heading TUN Forest. - Arrangements were made py Bob Fuller and Don Young with Chief Perry, Chairman of the Town Forest Committee, to remove dead limbs from the large eakar on the northeast side of the Town Forest. Twelve members of the Jaycees worked in the rain. Mach was accomplished. The removal of these limbs reduces the fire hazard in this area. It will be easier now to select suitable trees for removal in order to leave the better trees to grow to maturity. - The men working included Fell Murray Kevin Mullen Thomas Feeney .Russell Stone, Leigh Amaden Robert Turner, Robert Fuller Donald Young Richard Allen Peter Underhill Donald Takaoh Hugh Buckley Jr. Jr . The coffee pot was busy all morning. Charles Stratton, of the Conservation Commission, and Ben Nichols of the Town Forest Committee had a fire going in the gravel pit area near the eakar. At noon, lunch of hamburgers and hot dogs was cooked over the wood fire. Albert Schneider, Chairman of the Conservation Commission, dropped by and was pleased to see tnt interest and the results of the Jaycees. Cooking equipment was loaned by Troop 702, Boy Scouts of America. Capt. Donald Mitchell and Ernest Babcock of the Reading Fire Department brought toole and first aid kit for use by the Jaycees. The tools were used, but there was no need to use the first aid kit. This was a most worthwhile community project. A "Thank You" letter was written to the Jaycees on May 14, 1967. 16 July 30, 1967 Henry Fineman, a member of the Conservation Comission gave to the Town Forest Committee a report of "Readings Cranberry Industry." This report is filed in this book, and is market "16 -A." This dam is shown on the map of Lot No. 32, known as the Charles A. Loring piece. A copy of this map is filed in this book, and is marked "16 -B." September 30, 1967 Dave Calvin and Ben Nichols picked over one quart ea re oh of I cranberries in area mentioned in this report. They we found in the cranberry bog near the Ipswich River in Dividence Meadow at the far and north of the dam. Later cranberry sauce was made from these by Mrs. Edith 3weetser Nichols, 374 Main Street, Reading. She is interested in the Town Forest as her family woodlot later became Lot 19 in the Town Forest. September 30, 1967 Boy Scout Troops 702 and 735 camped in the Town Forest this weekend. Three and one -half inches of rain fell during the camping period. Troop 702 is sponsored by the Old South Methodist Church and Troop 735 is sponsored by St. Athanaeius Church. Chris Cullen, a Scout of Troop 735, took the scouts of his troop to the old Scout Area on what was known at Scrub Oak Rill. Trees had been planted there on May 7, 1960 by Troop 7 which was sponsored by the Knights of Columbw . The Scouts of Scout Troop 735 cleared the low brush which had growa:.around these saplings. This will help the saplings grow better. This was a fine conservation and service project of Troop 736. October 28, 1967 The Reading Junior Chamber of Commerce had another work day in the Town Forest, carrying on the work they started on May 6, 1967. The Jaycees working on this project included: Jeff Taylor Dick Allen Neil Murray Jim Miller Bob Faller Don Young Rues Stone, Jr. Don Takach Bud Margossian The "Chief Cook and Bottle Washer" was Pete Vincent. The Town Forest Committeemen working included Fire Chief, Jim Perry, Chairman and Ben Nichols, Secretary. READINGS CRANBERRY INDUSTRY. 16 -A The Town of Reading once had a flourishing cranberry industry. Several portions of the Reading Town Forest area were once growing this crop. Some of its history was told to Henry W. Fienemann by Elmer R. Batchelder who was born here in 1889. Elmers forebears were among the early settlers and owned sections of cranberry bog along the Ipswich River. It seems that Readings early settlers followed the practice of building their homesteads on high land with pasture and woodlot areas close by. They also had acreage in the marsh areas for swale hay and blue - joint. They learned that cranberries would grow quite well in these fresh water marshes. The Massachusetts State Census Report for 1905 lists 778 acres of cranberries in Middlesex County for that year Mr. Batchelder stated that at one time, Middlesex County claimed to be the center of this industry in America. Then, as this industry became more scientific and a larger crop was needed, areas on or near Cape Cod were found to be more adaptable. The occasion for Elmers discourse came about one day when Henry asked him to locate a plot of almost 5 acres that went with the so- called Whitchurch Farm that Henry had just purchased at 341 Franklin Street. Henry and Elmer started off for Dividence Meadow. An arm of this marsh extends in a southerly direction from the main marsh along the Ipswich. The plot was located north of a dam running from west to east. This dam was used, according to Elmer, to impound water to flood the contiguous cranberry areas. This Dam is still there. Its westerly end terminates on Dividence Island, owned for many years by the Bancroft family but now apart of ou`r Town Forest. Its easterly end terminates on high land part of the Timothy Wakefield Estate. Henrys plot partly joined the Town Forest and is also part of that forest. Elmer pointed to the Dividence Island as the one time site of a Winnowing Shed where the several cranberry growers brought their crop to have the twigs, leaves and small berries removed. Clean berries were then packed in wooden barrels and trucked to the Boston Market. Large wagons, drawn by a team of horses, left Reading in the evening, travelling much of the night, to be on the early morning market. Elmer stated that the gates in the Dam across the Ipswich at its Mill Street crossing were closed at appropriate times to flood the cranberry bogs up river. This dam is still there. One important reason for the disappearance of this industry from Reading was the very gradual fall in the river. It took too long to drain a flooded area. Cranberry growers learned that a volume of water was needed to cover their bogs in a short time but it had to be drained off i quickly at the proper time. There are still cranberries in Reading for those who know where to look. I have had water pails full picked along the Ipswich. These bogs were burned off in prior years to keep down the swele grass which has now about taken over. The berries must be picked before a frost and the hardy folk who relish them wear cotton gloves t prevent Swale grass cuts on their hands. Henry . Fienemann.... July 30,1967 -�— - (ORIGINAL ON FILE.) c ISCGLE E OF THIS IN FEET.1� 0 50 100 200 100 d r + "� 4 ff oa L o 1F 0 u y El Lo +nm 0 y u W 4a `� m �F ti t o' d � Mm 68 \ °1a �•' D�k'i �o �. 5 0E k c B{.'�E. t ZoS• 3 0 F a iQ L [tl M tir ti U utL i0 $3 s, 3e �iA ap ro Fri \ �Yo /eC g 4. ` a3 F, s 2 �'�_ 6 yP lm�eal. :n Wean a lh. r —'- Tn�ax •us. e+ n ± 'd i.. UbylYdanllelA,.�aqq�� eC Tn � c v � .v�0y YL�FrIeaAM�1"�M 113.. qs\� rrc B x ❑ 11aw W Al r i P Chcj�cr A. y s.�`za'v✓. s.ls'se to Teo aJ fd N I. zi°a ° 3 Z a D r ro..m-Z 11 q 61 O u W co Y �J0 xd Chcj�cr A. y s.�`za'v✓. s.ls'se to Teo aJ fd N I. zi°a ° 3 .1 11 q 61 O u W co N ons °� 4 R j.N . 3..o£:YZ, x�"L, 9z O� w P� .y lM� LL ° i .4s, ull �1�•e fPDay� LMO� ..,..,'YY,GO 17 November 16, 1967 7:00 PM The Town Forest Committee met at the ',vest Side Fire Station. A formal notice of this meeting had been posted on the bulletin board at the Municipal Building. Members Present: James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Maurice E. Donegan Mr. Donegan moved that the same officers be nominated for the ensuing year, and that the secretary be instructed to cast one ballot for them. This was done. The budget of $1,900.00 for the year 1968 was discussed. Mr. Donegan moved t)s t this budget be submitted, and Mr. Nichols seconded the motion. It was so voted. This will make it possible to continue the program of tree carethat has been carried out during the last few years, as well as miscellaneous parts of the program for the benefit of the forest. Mr. Donegan moved the sum of $50.00 be voted as annual salary for miss "senor Taylor for keeping the $ nanoial records of the Committee. Mr. Nichols seconded the motion, and it was so voted. Mr. Perry will invite, slate Forester Bates to come to Beading and inspeet the progress being made in the Town Forest, and ask hie suggestions in setting -.up programs for the future. Mr. Perry will ask Mr. Bates about the purchase of seedlings of various kinds to be planted on the west side of Scrub Oak Hill. Mr. Nichols moved that these seedlings be ordered. Mr. Donegan seconded the motion. It was so voted. Mr. Nichols moved that Mr. Kingman Abbott be hired at a sum not to exceed $250.00 to locate air points starting at the southwesterly point of Lot No. 18 known as the Symonds lot and running to the easterly oorner of Lot No. lb known as the Kiernan and Ball lot. The Baird of Public Works has granite markers which they willgive to the TownForest Committee. At a later time, the Town Forest Committee will furnish men to dig the holes, and set the granite markers under the supervision of Mr. Abbott. If there would be go additional coat, the Committee would ask Mr,Abbott to similarly locate and install markers at the top of the hill at the southerly point of the Ordway Pit, which is lot No. 21, and also northwest . of this point about 722.69 feet at the junction of Lots No. 21, 22 and 26, I November 16, 1967 (continued) Mr. Nichols moved that the committee confirm the purchase for $25.00 of fifteen 9" s 9" aerial photos of the Town Forest Area from the New Pngland Survey Service, Ina. These are on the scale of 1" to 400 feet. Mr. Donegan seconded the motion. It was so voted. ntr. Nichols moved that the Committem put an article in tpe neat Annual Town Meeting to "Dedicate" the so called Meet Timothy Wakefield lot to the TownForest. Mr. Donegan seconded the motion. It was so voted. The meeting was adjourned at 8;30 P.: M. Refer to Page 3 of this book for information regarding various lots in the Town Forest. This list below is a continuance of the information on Pages 3 and 4. Lot Ho. AcreaRe o� d Bok aP — 31 .e inent Domain Taking 10547 -113 Deed uenry Iv, aianamann Town Forest Purposes 32 4.206 8538 -298 Eminent Domain Taking Charles A. Loring "Dedicated" to Tarn Forest. Refer Special Town Meeting Feb. 12, 1962 Article 4. 11553 -119 "Dedication" filed. Map shown in 33 4.990- 7727 -564 Quitclaim Deed this book -Silas Henry Carroll Page 16 -B. Purpose not mentioned in deed. Refer Special Town Meeting JAn. 22, 1951 Article 12. Voted Eminent Domain 34 12.7781 10782 -306 Eminent Domain Taking Trustees Laura Realty Trust Town Forest Purposes 35 1.704 11236 -205 Eminent Domain Taking 11274 -558 Deed John C. Bryant, Jr. Mdnioippl water supply purposes 36 1.3855 11272 -099 Eminent Domain taking (In Reading only) 11272 -101 Deed (Shows part of land is) (in Wilmington.) Frank E. and Mildred N. Miller Municipal water eupply purposes. 19 Lot No. Acreage Book and Pa e - S7 4.779 - i9.96NZ7- F�lminent Domain Taking Lillian Berg, Carrie G.Duby, Florence B. Municipal Rater Supply Purposes Sheehan 38 3.302 Article 78, Annual Town Meeting April 15, 1967 Unknown owner Voted for Town Forest 11313 -165 See Map Page 10 -C in this book. 39 6.174 6344 -522 See Map Page 10 -D in this book. 6361 -524 6089 -79 Tax title land, formerly Herbert A. Nichols DedicatQd to Town Forest in Annual Town 1j551nf2iARri1 15, 1967 Article 79 Dedication" filed. 40 8.270 11313 -160 Eminent Domain Taking 11395 -423 Deed Grace D.Banoroft Article 80, Annual Town Meeting, April 15,1967 Voted for Town Forest Purposes See Map Page 10 -E in this book. 41 2.446 11313 -163 Eminent Domain Taking 11395 -426 Deed Grace D.Bancroft Article 81, Annual Town Meeting, April 15,1967 Voted for Town Forest Purposes Sae ldap Page lU -L' in this book. (Continued on Page 34.) The annual report of the Town Forest Committee for the year 1967 was submitted to Boyd H. Stewart, Municipal Building. This report reads as follows:.. To the Citizens of Reading: we submit our report for 1967. The Annual Town Meeting on April 15, 1967 voted four articles which added twenty acres to the Town Forest. Mrs. Grace Dennison Bancroft sold to the Town for Town Forest purposes two parcels with 1U.7 acres, at a price which amounted to a gift. Tax title land which had been foreclosed in 1940 was "dedicated" to the Town Forest with an acreage of 6.2 acres. Another piece with 3.3 acres, which belonged to unknown owners was voted to the Town Forest. The AaaU91.,Town Meeting voted the Bum of $1,700.00 for the further development and maintenance of the Forest. Thinning of the trees planted years ago has been continued, using the recommendations Of our State Forester. As in past years, this work has been done in cooperation with the United States Department of Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service, and for ^which the Town was reimbursed $200.00. Trails have been marked throughout the Forest. Groups of Gird watuhars nave run odrd walks durinb the 03 20 i61 (Annual Report continued) various seasons of the year. David Galvin reports eighty -six different species were seen in the Forest during 1967. Boy Scouts have worked on service and conservation projects which have been of great benefit to the Forest. They have camped in the Forest in all seasons of the year. The Record Book which was started in December 1964 has been continued. This book will be valuable in future years fot the detail of various lots of land, the record of acquisitions of new lots of land, the planting of trees, and bits of history of our Town Forest. There are many people in Reading who appreciate that our Town Forest means to them, but in future years there will be many more people who will realize the value of an area where they may roam without the disturbances of our modern life. Respectfully submitted, James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Maurice H. Donegan January 22, 1868 7 :30 PM A formal posted meeting was held in Room 1, Municipal Building. Members present: James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Maurice H. Donegan The secretary's report of the last meeting was read and approved. Mr. Perry will talk with State Forester Estes to find out when the seedlings will be available for planting in the spring in the Town Forest. Mr. Perry will order 1000 seedlings, It was decided that the Secretary will write the articles for the warrant for the Annual Town Meeting. These will include: Two articles for the acquisition of two parcels from Hillcrest Realty for the Town Forest, one article for the acquisition of one parcel from the estate of the dakefield family for the Town Forest, and one article to be written for the Board of Public Works for the acquisition by dedication of 0f land-fcxmex�y owned by Chouncy P. Judd Heirs, and foreclosed for taxes, which will be dedicated for the Public Domain Yor the preservation of the water supply. The meeting was adjourned at 8 :30 PM. 21 January 1, 1968 Refer to the land sold by Mrs. Grace D.Bancroft in 1967 for the Town Forest, which are shown as Lots No. 40 and 41. Her daughter, Mrs. Elinor MacDonald, wrote on January 1, 1968 the following note: "I am glad that piece of property is doing just what it is doing. 'In wildness is the preservation of the earth.' " These eight words come from a Thoreau quotation which the Wilderness Society (Sierra Club) has long used almost as a motto. They tell what Thoreau discovered one hundred years ago, that a leaven of wildness is necessary for the health of the human spirit, a troth we seem to have forgotten in our headlong rush to control all nature. Dnless we reverse our course all wildness will disappear from the American continent even within the lives of those who are now the age Thoreau was when he died in 1862. (From the preface of the book with the title, "In Wildness Is the Preservation of the World" by Eliot Porter July 21, 1962. Pablished by the Sierra Club - Ballantine Books) March 23, 1968 The Adjourned Annual Town Meeting was continued on Saturday morning, March 23, 1968. Article 54 was written by the Town Forest Committee, but was submitted by the Board of Public Works to Dedicate a lot of land containing 10.58 acres, more or less, which abuts at a point the land presently awned by the Town, and known as the Revay Brook Area of the 4➢atur Department. This land is north of Lowell Street and east of the Boston & Maine Railroad. The town meeting members voted to Dedicate the premises as a public domain to be devoted to the preservation of the water supply. This lot is known as the Judd Piece, and had been taken by the Town for non - payment of taxes. Historical Note: This same lot of land appears under ownership of Chauncey P. Judd in the "List of the Polls and Estates in the Town of Reading May let, 1890." It is listed as: "meadow, east of R. R. north of Lowell et., 13 acres" and was assessed for $100. This lot of land was located in the Town's Tax Title Account Book by the Town Forest Committee, and a notation was put on it as follows: Hold for Town Forest and Watershed Development Please see Ben Nichols for details B. E. Nichols 3 -14 -65 An article about Chauncey Parkman Judd appears in the Memorial Volume of Redding, 250th Anniversary 1644 -1894 on Page 134. The page shorting Article 54 in the warrant is shown in this og book on Pages 22 -A and 22 -8B See bottom of Page 22 for additional information re Judd.) •H -ZZ pGgaem 3[ooq Sol ST11; up amoge sT aeze ePT1; do d9m pair 'ZZ1-094TT aT POTT; ep aop;90pPe¢ „';uam;zadeQ ao ;94; I9dTDTU 1 Sapp12011 eq; 04 P94soppep eq eesjmead,,:pgea uop ;op[ •quszzsy, amos IP SaPpzom =4 euoemoe Gq peSn8110 sam lac;eam Imo; IT Ioi;om T1111408 eq; ;o luTpaom e11s 'B4aadoad ppnp Sujp1990a TZ 09193 ae ;eH ' 'Elddus ze ;am 011; ;o aop ;oeae8ozd gum ao; IFamop OplgTtd 0171 o; poppe ogle sam gezos I0; pea '4.eea03 amoy eg; o; paPp9 gam 60•ZT ;0 09120-109 114pre pma7 •9upp9eH up uoS41Rs2e81100 -10; -112 a6 P009 agq;01113 Bum 9961 •a OIpT ;oT pas eT ;p; 011; 11scTge 4.8s STe4paT ;eP o4 eleozsd asa11; eq; uo epam ezem eluppj ap12mo0: ;aeaPmB 4uq 'pall peesgaand ;o sleoasd aez11; eg; TO Iloilo ao postmaz12 esm ;I9meea9V eeT9S V •0 -ZZ peXzsm Rooq Sol epq; up amoge aT 06-99kT UT 9[¢ 'Q-ZZ paxzom ep Pas 'Rooq Sol OTT14 ap amoge ST L9 9TOT4zV „•doll sez9„ 011; Io ;; 'oH 407 peu2pe812 uaeq esg 401 8Tt[S '191 9894 '494TT $00$ Ip ;Opa4OW Il4110S '6;u11o0 xee01PPT➢Q 'epee¢ ;o 614ST20H aF Peze;eTSaz ep SaP49; aP9mo¢ 4aaupma aqy •;aesead mnzoub 9 g4Tm GTgnompasan Pe ;on esm eT0$;ze ep11y •PuoTeI 4 ;0 -1onsS eg;,eo umoasl moa 'pa s(sI 00a0pFnpa ;o q ;nos pus ;sem pa48001 ST pool 9111 •011I'R419911 ;sezaTTTH moa; 'sael ao eaom 'se -1o12 65'0 ;o esa11oand et[; 4 -19AOe ;I •ae ;;pm)[100 4eaJD3 Amos e114 6q Pe44Tmg112 esm L9 sTOP 4,-1V 'd -82 Pegx9m Rooq 201 Sp114 ap smogs Sp 12aa9 eP11; ;o dom sill •Q -ZZ Pexzem ST puo 'Rooq Sol Spg; ut amoge 9I 99 OTOTq -V „•dsK 9e-1V„ 9114 ao 0; 0011 ;07 Paa9Fses aeeq 8911 WT OTT1S 'L90 03sd '99'f71 $ooS ap ;Opa ;epQ 1143108 4411110 xae9TPppyq 'epeOQ ;0 6z ;BTSGH UT pea948TSoz ep SaTq9d ITamoQ ;uonW-_ eqy •pall ezg; eea11oand o; 4a9sead mn.tonb a q;Tm lTsuompusun pe4oa gam glop 4a9 9pT1S 'msQ Eazequ9ao eq; ;o 40120 p0 49001 OT PtmE 9115 'PTOTa93191S 09la9110 ;o ezpe11 eq4 eq o; pemneaad ;nq 'eaeumo umomtom moz; 'esaT ao oaom 'oezos 0•9 ;o eeagoznd eIl; ea9A00 ;T '9el;pmmo0 a.eezo,T amoy 6171 ga pellTma11e gem 99 9TOT4zV ' 'S-ZZ pa�[aam 3[ooq Sol eTq; TIT amoge ep 9929 sp11; ;o d12m aill •Q-ZZ Bas 0 -99 peRasm ST Pas '$ooq Sol spt4 ap amoge ep 99 9TOT4zV „• dgK sea ,, 9114 Io Zq •OH ;07 POT22TOBI aeeq soil ;ol sTt[S •060 039d '991IT $o0H ap 4oSa49Fa 119,1109 '6 ;I11o0 aseelppjp[ 'epee¢ 90 2z49T?GU UT Peze;ep9ez 9T SUT494 ap9moQ :M1ITMS eqy 'pa9T epIl; 9e9Il0211d o; ;aeeead mnzoub s g ;Pen e1eu0mLa9In P0406 esm elOp ;-19 8j11s •m9Q Sa -1egl9aO eq4 ;o g411o8 4811C Pe;90oT St Pool 9111•01XI,94T9eH 480 -1OT1TH 9114 moa; 'esel ao aaom 'eosos g•Z ;o sesgoaud ego saoeoo ;I • eO ; ;FmmoO ;geaod arms 917; A P9 ; ;Fm4118 esm 99 9IOT44XV (pe11lp41100 2UT490A amoy 7911aIV) zz 6 TWENTY-SIR TOWN OF READING called, also owned by the Town bered RII -A, or what it will of Reading. it relation thereto: From thence the line rue- ARTICLE RIFA southerly and easterly along the shore of said island by various LEASHING OF DOGS courses the following distances, o person owning or keep! 6 a viz., 240.19 ft., 107.20 ft., 175.31 do in the Tawn of Re mg ft., 273.78 ft., and 105.0 ft. to an sh Permit such dog to at iron pipe and stones set at the lar a in the Town else here most southeasterly corner of its on the premises of th own. said island and at the northerly er o keeper, except if it ¢ on end of a causeway: the emises of another rson with he knowledge and ermis- Thence again Southeasterly by lion such other person land retained by said Hillerest Sue owner or keeper f a dog Realty Inc., a distance of 140 in the own of Readin , which ft., more or less, to land of is not n the premise of the Henry Angenni et 'ix: owner upon the pr ' as of Thence southwesterly 132.01 ft., another emon with a knowl- and southerly 09.31 ft., by the edge an permission o such per, said Angslini to a corner of the son shall restrain snc dog by a wan: ! chain or ash not ex selling six Thence westerly by the wall a feet in le distance of 5.70 ft. to a point Any dog found to at large which is the northeasterly cor. in the To of Rea ing in viola. ner of land of the Meadow tim, of t by-la may be Brook Golf Club. Inc.: caught and onfin by the Dog Thence northwesterly by land Officer of T , who upon of the said Golf Club a distance taking such og all forthwith of 712 ft., mare or less, to a report in wrl ng the Reading corner in a ditch at other land Police Depart a tthat such dog is in his cus y, and said re port of the Town of Reading: shaD contain description of Thence northerly, partly by the such dog reaso bly sufficient to ditch, by said other land of said ch aguish and identify it and Town, being lots formerly also include m kings on its rol- awned by Fannie Nichols and let and is t ched to it, If Chester A. Ellison, respective - any; and sal port shall be ly,a distance of 291.5 ft., more available for r asonable time or less, to an Iron pipe and thereafter to any a making in. stones: - quiry of the olice Department. Thence continuing northerly by The owns or it per of such said other land of said Tawn a dog shall reby come liable distance of 157.87 ft. to the iron to the T of Rea ng for the Pipe at the point of beginning. cost to the Town of taking and Containing by estimation some keeping a dog up five days 3.59 acres of land, more or less, after said report to the Police aM said parcel to be more fully Departm t or up t the time shown on a plan to be made by such dog s returned t its owner H. Ringman Abbott, Registered or O less than said five Surveyor. days; ch coats the fig s; Being the southwesterly Y k of ar T certify f Re di the e ll of the To 0 Reading eats the premises conveyed by by Sr costs of ing costs upon a du cafe of M Mary Deaelc., m said Hill- said e ort he makes to a Pa- treat a Realty Inc., in Book lice lice apartment and Ing It Page 411, the second parcel parcel with a Clerk of the Tow . therein. owner keeper of such Reading Tawn Forest dog shall be entitled to ropes. Committee on of such dog upon idang h dog Recommend g4$Q9R wi the Dog Officer affidavit th r th he is the owner or keep r of TICLE fib. To if the so h dog and making pay ant Town ate amend the In Ole said five dayB, of the General B of the Town by s Id Croat to the Town. ad hereto ollowing H the owner or keeper of e h icle, such Article to op shall fail during the s it FINANCE COMMITTEE REP Y row" OF XGADJAU 1966 3,351,280.47 $ 630,204.15 4,488.00 255,530.30 1 125,227.62 87,302.36 18,946.78 10,106.75 69,494.12 85,258.86 136,926.30 222,481.71 302,602.70 5,830,172.60 39,895.97 2,670,050.55 773,533.84 52,336.04 15,950,667.49 72,176.73$ 230,568.80 12,229.23 728,369.62 58,499.95 69,24635 /388,347.68 2,699,737.81 331,106.60 ,—ML,561,893.47 94,44524 5,110.80 88,000.47 106,90552 $ 14,608,259.91$ 331.62 1,023,865.15$ 1,362, 22_3) FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT TWENTY FIVE Thence northeasterl by other land of the Town of Reading Ivan" as the "Loring Lot" and by the aforesaid dam, a distance of 240.54 ft. more or less and, to the iron pipe at the point of beginning. Containing 2.5 acres more or less said parcel 'o be more fully shown on a plan to be made by H. Kingman Abbott, Registered Surveyor, and being the same premises conveyed by Mary D. Desellier to said Hillerest Realty Inc., in Book 8624 —Page 411, the first parcel therein. Reading Town Forest Committee Recommend 450.00 ARTICLE 66. To see if the Town will vote to acquire, by purchase, right of eminent do- main, deed of gift, or otherwise, for Town Forest purposes the following described parcel of land, and to see what sum the Town will raise by borrowing, or from the tax levy or transfer from available funds or other wise and appropriate for the purpose of acquiring the follow- ing available land, or what it will do in relation thereto: A parcel of land in the north- westerly part of the Town of Reading and northerly of Frank- lin Street and being bounded and described as follows: Beginning at the southeasterly comer of the granted premises at a stone bound set at the south. westerly corner of land of Harry K. Kurchian and the northwest- erly corner of land of Henry Fienemann: westerly by land formerly of Grace D. Bancroft and by land formerly of Herbert A. Nichols at al., now supposed to be of the Town of Reading, by various lines and angle points, a distance of 590 ft. more or less to an iron pipe and stones at the meadow and land of Hillerest Realty Inc. Thence northwesterly by said HWCrest Realty Inc. land and by land of the Town of Reading known as the Loring Lot, a dis- tance of 319 ft. more or less, to a stake at other land of the Town of Reading known as the Fienemann Lot: Thence slightly more norther. ly by said Fienemana lot a dis. tance of 138.6 ft. more or less, to a stake and stones at the Southwesterly corner of land of Chester A. Ellison: Thence easterly in a straight line by land of said Ellison a dis. tance of 779 ft. more or less, to the southeasterly corner of said Ellison land and land of the aforesaid Kurchfan: Thence southerly by said Kur. Chien land a distance of 399.22 feet to the bound at the point of begin Containing 6 acres of land, more or less, and said land to be more fully shown on a plan to be area is i 6 acres I course in Re_ omen $500A0 ARTICLE 67. To see if the Town will vote to acquire by purchase, right of eminent do- main, deed of gift, or other. wise, for Town Forest purposes the following described parcel of land, or any part thereof, and to see what smn the Town will raise by borrowing, or from the tax levy or transfer from avail. able funds or otherwise and appropriate for the purpose of acquiring the following avail- able land or any part thereof, or what it will do in relation thereto: beginning at the most northerly corner of the granted Premises at land of the Town of Reading known as the Town Forest, at an iron pipe, thence running southeasterly across the Meadow and by other land of said Town known as the "Lor. ing Let," a distance of 251.37 ft. to an iron pipe set at the edge of the hardland on the westerly shore of Dividencs Island, so. TWENTY -FOUR TOWN OF READING FINANCE COMMITTEE REP, d) Cause W be published, t o TICLE 84. To see t he weeks prior to Town Merit g, Town BI establish pub' read- '" FUN D and circulated in the town a e- inq coo to be loco in the Inside Debt Limit: rl of projected capital as en. lower Irene of the ommugity hones For the current year nd Center, 52 S Street, said Sewer ..........- ...._ -_... ve years ahead with r m- reading rooms constructed, School — Eaton ... endathms concerning the Um- furnished, mlm and oper. School — Memoria 1 In and method of fin ring ated and the direr of the School — Birch Me ca ilal items. The report shall Librar rustees, or wh it will School — Coolidge Ju b an fain a projection of th total do i elation thereto. tax rate based upon over I call- alph J. Bens, Jr. and of ^s utside Debt Limit: m,l x of Tmwn revenue nd ex- 'lures time Pending 9 c — School Memorial fig pen in broad ca gorses. "ral School —Birch Mae ow Hist comparative figures ARTICLE 85. To see if the School — Coolidge uni, shall a provided for t least Town will vote to acquire by School — Barrows four ors past, purchase, right of eminent do- .._ Light Seclio 3. main, deed of gift, or otherwise, _ gh[ Far he purpose of) this by- for Town Forest purposes the fight . Izw, a apilal rxpen ture shall following described parcel of star be any xpendllure, noticed in land, and to see what sum the ate, whole o in part by own funds, Town will raise by borrowing, or ter for acq siting of Is d, a phyat- from the tax levy or transfer ... ... _ ter _.. cal butte ment, or a purchase (torn available funds or other- W ter of equip nt with substantial wise and appropriate for the Total bt useful lif , the tal cost of purpose of acquiring the follow. _... which is ,989 or are. Ing available land, or what It Estimat 1968 V nation .... Section 4 The Cap at B deaf Commit- will do in relation thereto: Ration o Debt to aluation .a certain parcel of meadow tee shall re one end to Town land in Dividence Meadow, so. Available Borrow g Capacip Meeting the era far of money called, lying northerly of Frank. uric or out o t e Stabilization it. Street and being bounded and N9FEAS Fund as ma desirable to described as fellows: fund in whole in part current Beginning at the northeasterly Appropriatl n: or anticipated capital expends- tares and mi Ise fluctuations turner of the granted premises I'YOm m as Lery in the overall x rate. a: an iron pipe bound set at the easterly end of a dam herein- ._ From a Surplus y p John B, ken and Others after mentioned, and on the Transfers: No Actioe westerly line of land of the Wake- "Wiley Expense ARTICLE T see what sum field Estate known as the _.. Account ccount a Clerical the Town 1 rais by borrowing Lot ' From thence the line runs ..... Assessor ' lerical _. or from th tax 1 or transfer southeasterly by the said Wiley Board A peals Expem from feel his fir s or other. 'ate Lot a diamnce of 284.3 ft. more Electio an Re istmtion wise and a ro for the pp p or leas and to an :ron pipe set in al B ]d ngg Matnt purpose f providI g co- opera- atones and the southwesterly Police Police I)epG elZen ..... live or mplimen ry facilities Police Dept aintenance to out- lent clinics established corner of said Wiley Lot. Polic Station aintenam or to be established in accord. Thence continuing southeaster- Poll Reserve Unlforms once 'th the p Jones of ly by a wall and land formerly Fire apt. Sala es ._..___. Chapte 123 of the Ce ral Laws, of Nichols, now of the Town of Fire Dept. Pen ons In c oo ration with t Depart - Reading, a distance of 100 It. Fir Dept. Mein enance ment f Mental Health nd other more or less and, to other land Ft Alarm Sala as _. seen collaborating 'lh said of the HJllcrest Realty Inc. Tr a and Moth pt Exl Depa ment, and for viding Thence westerly across the G Inspector's Ifry Pay em for services ndered, meadow in a straight line by H alth Agent's Sri ary _.. or t be rendered, by so h pub- said other land of Hillerest erd of Health E n. lic r private agencies i such Realty Inc., a distance of 325 ft. ontagious Dise cb a in accordance wl h the more or less to an iron pipe and cherries' Benefits pr 'stons of General Laws stones at land formerly of hoof General Me tie C Ater 40, Section 5, lause Grace D. Bancroft, now of the School Pensions .... I -C) the same to be ex nded Town of Reading, and known Library Maintenar u der the direction of the S hool as the "Dividence Island" lot. Public Works Panel mmittee or of the Boa of Thence northerly b said land Public Works Dum, F faith or under the joint d ec- of the Town of Reading a dis- Snow and Ice Rem E ion of both, or what It will d in tance of 318.59 ft. more or less Parking Areas Salaries elation thereto. and, to a drill hole near the Haverhill St. Nike Site BI Newell H. Morlon, and oth a westerly end of the aforesaid Interest Account .. d $9.845.09 dam: Balance Returned to Overlay IVWp VY 1lEflLIPY r, $?17=2DS5.4611 9,389.92 60.54 66,491.58 94,005.43 $/ 94,830.40 TICL 4. To circular how i me the own will raise inrowin at from the tax or tire far from available or oth wi a and appropri- for Ge r 1 Government, etlon of _sons and Prop - CIVB ease Cause a. Commissi n, Development Hainteno a ' the Town it, Heat and Sanitation, I of P It Works, includ Iighwt s d Sidewalks, fate, mm n Parks and rviaed Play, Maintenance Oper lies f Municipal ing A eas, M 'ntenance of cipal Buildhn on Bear 22 -C FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT TWENTY -THBEE ARTICLE 56. To see H the eading Visiting Nurse Assort . Town will vote to authorize t e on and the Board of Health, i heal Committee le seH or - hat it will do in relation the - han$e, upon such terms nd ndnions as rt may dete ne, Janet B. Dolben, and of rs I e 1963 Ford 2 -door Sedan ow Rec mmend $500.00 in the Schoot Department, a d to se what sum the Town will Ti 61. To see ' the rat a by borrowing or from the To will vote to abolis the tax levy or transfer from avail- Cap 1 Expenditures PI chat abl funds, or otherwise; and Cam ittee originally estab- app priate for the purchase of fish under Article 30 of a An. a ne Sedan, or what it will do noel arrant of March , 1944, in re it thereto. School Committee term and 52,600A0 All CLE 57. To see'what ac- tion th Town will take regard- ing the ' collation of additional street is on the public streets during t e year 1968, or what it will do t relation thereto. Municipal: Light Board Remotions. S35A00.00 A 58. Tp see if the *'own will prove the construe. bon of a ne housing project by the Reading Howing Authority, namely, a h using project for eloerly perso s ppursuant to the prov1 to o 6hap[er 667 of kin ssachuseits ets of 1954, and Acts in amen ant thereof and in addition the to, to be known as State -Aid owing Project 667 -2, or what it will do in rela- tion thereto. Reading Ho sing Authority No Aeuen ARTICLE 59. see if the Town will ate to apse by bor- rowine or m the tax levv ar sum and 45, Chapter 128, Laws of Massachusetts, it will do in relation the Lois M. Piper, ai Recommend $150.00 ARTICLE M. To see, the Town will raise by ing or from the tax levy Following Remmmenda- pended under the direction of No Aetl ARTIC E 62. To Town wit vote to General -Laws of by adding thereto t Article to a num or what it will d thereto: Section 1. There shat ba at Commit cc at man shall elect mittee fro a amen members ppolet. lectmen. See Rm 8 Thed me of the et Com iltre shall a) A crisis he 1st ea year who lays y be regw as B ards and G h at year end five ears. ing of will de Others if the ad the pital Budg. ing of one p Commit. y by and or of the steel aMW and three in the citi- f appointed three year r that one ar. Vacan- t the unex- oner of the A Chair - bv a Cam - the three y the Se. neanngs as may may visabie. Report to the Finance e by December gist on recommended f in re it thereto. School Committee term and 52,600A0 All CLE 57. To see'what ac- tion th Town will take regard- ing the ' collation of additional street is on the public streets during t e year 1968, or what it will do t relation thereto. Municipal: Light Board Remotions. S35A00.00 A 58. Tp see if the *'own will prove the construe. bon of a ne housing project by the Reading Howing Authority, namely, a h using project for eloerly perso s ppursuant to the prov1 to o 6hap[er 667 of kin ssachuseits ets of 1954, and Acts in amen ant thereof and in addition the to, to be known as State -Aid owing Project 667 -2, or what it will do in rela- tion thereto. Reading Ho sing Authority No Aeuen ARTICLE 59. see if the Town will ate to apse by bor- rowine or m the tax levv ar sum and 45, Chapter 128, Laws of Massachusetts, it will do in relation the Lois M. Piper, ai Recommend $150.00 ARTICLE M. To see, the Town will raise by ing or from the tax levy Following Remmmenda- pended under the direction of No Aetl ARTIC E 62. To Town wit vote to General -Laws of by adding thereto t Article to a num or what it will d thereto: Section 1. There shat ba at Commit cc at man shall elect mittee fro a amen members ppolet. lectmen. See Rm 8 Thed me of the et Com iltre shall a) A crisis he 1st ea year who lays y be regw as B ards and G h at year end five ears. ing of will de Others if the ad the pital Budg. ing of one p Commit. y by and or of the steel aMW and three in the citi- f appointed three year r that one ar. Vacan- t the unex- oner of the A Chair - bv a Cam - the three y the Se. neanngs as may may visabie. Report to the Finance e by December gist on recommended f TWENTY -TWO TOWN OF READING n Clerk in accordance wi Boston and Maine Railroad, a etamtory requirements d distance of 1,100 feet, more or ee B the own will acce he "I Tit less, to a point on the Easterly c way out by the rd boundary of the Right of Way of isir Works as ACK the Boston and Maine Railroad; and to see what um the n ill raise by bo wing, or Thence Southeasterly clang tax levy, o transfer said Boston end Maine Railroad av 'table fund or other- Bight of Way, a distance of 300 an approp to for the feet, mote or less, to a point at , stroclio of aid Way or division properly line of said t it will o i relatlon there- Rozbee and Boston and Maine Failroad Right of Way; Boa of Public Works XTown Thence Easterly along the the mend 7, 00.00 vision properly line between lends of said Rodiee and said TICL 53, o see if the Judd, a distance of 796 feet to n wit authorize instruct and the point of beginning. ct he Town surround This description appears on a rd retire Mos Parker, a map of this area on file in the t- is in the ela pl of the Office of the Board of Public under me terms d pro- Works. ns of Seen,). 77D of spier or what it will do in relation of the Acts of 1967, or what there to. ill do in relation thereto. Board of Public Works Board of Public W ks Me AcH. lscommend SUMAC ARTICLE 54. To see i f the Town will vote to dedicate the fohowing premises as a public domain to be devoted to the preservation of the water sup- ply. This land was acquired by the Town by foreclosure of tax hen from the Chauncy, P, Judd Heirs or devisees under certain deed for oon- payment of taxes dated September 5, 1939, and filed in Middlesex (South III, tict) Registry of Deeds in Bonk 6337, Page 424 on October 18, 1939. On March 7, 1942 a decree was entered and notice of final aescr3nea as lioness- Beginning at a point, said Point being the division property refuse of lands, now or formerly Of Lydia A. Boston, Town of Reading, Florence Sargent and C.P. Judd; Thence Northeasterly along the center line of a brook 775 feet, more or less, said brook be of the division property line between leads of said Sargent, Gerald B. and Ruth N. Gilbert and said Judd, to a point; Thence Southwesterly along the division property line be- tween lands of said Judd and Anuu.G an. i'o see a mf wn will vote to accept th gi from Boyd R. Stewart of th tot wing described property r wh it will do in relation th e- to: The land in Reading bo ded and d cribed as follows: Bain Lot 8 on a plan erein- after m boned, begi at a point on he southerly Ide line of Ridge ad at the property Bne of Lot 7 and 8: Thence S 50 inches, I a distance point; Thence r 15 inches 1 feet by Lot Thence 1 -50 inches tance of 12 Action 85 3 - 31 feet- ', 6 and 5, feet to a a .53 feet - ee of 5.19 l; es Jl feet 9, a dis. a point; n .28 feet e Road. a at more o less. bed lines being a pl ng w n an- ent Through Pri- for Drainage and rposes, R ge 963. of Public Wor FINANCE COMMITTEE Rip Town .0 m Town Co r Town Cie I Town Cle Town Cler Board of R Board of H+ Election & Board of A Planning I Capit Expe Finance Cc Personnel Superintem Mon. Bldg. Municipal Comm. Cit. Comm. Cit. Depot Mai Nike Site, Labor Neap Art GOVERN 3 Clerical . Expense Salary .. 1 Clerical _ .. 'a Expense ...._.:... Salary ..... __..... . Clerical ........ Expense ..... .__ Salary ............ Clerical ..... ....... Expense _ ............. Salaries ...:i......_.. Clerical ....:.____.. Expense .: _._._.. wel's Salary _... _. set's Expense _._.. .'s Salary ,.._......... r$' Salaries ra' Expense tration Exl Expense expense ... u. Com. Ex ':e Expense Expense I Bldg.. S ,Ys Salary igs Maintei Maint., Art kenam Art Art ¢t. 1 PROTE ION OF PE ONS Police pt Salaries .._...... Police Dept OF _.... Polic Dept. Mmntena a Polic Station Janitor'? to Poll DeptNM l ifioe; , e A Pol ce Reserves Unit.' A'. Ne Cruising Car, N Cruising Car, Art. w Chief's Car, Art. 18 ..... reach Analyzer, Art 21 ..... . file Control — Schools 22 -B TOWN OF READING FINANCE COMMITTEE TWENMONE Requested Recom. ARTICLE 46. To see what s ARTICLE 50. To see it 1968 1 %8 Town will raise by bore - own will vote to accept the or from the cox levy ar on of the Board of Pu 317,820.00 317,820 'l1 ruder from available fund or arks upon the laying out a tt 3,000.00 3, .00 o ise and appropriate for blic Way of a Private y 12,724.60 12, .60 the purpose of widening a or- own as LAKEVIEW R 14,050.00 14, tion of High Street on the eat on er the provision of law .00 side between a point op osite an arising the assessme of 7,130.00 7,1 .00 Haven Street to Was g[on bit cements, such highway sing 4,200.00 400.00 Sieet, or what d will do i eels- tai out in accordance wit plan 2,215.00 2 15.00 ties thereto. dul approved by the Be rd of 1,480.00 480.00 Board of Publi Works So y and (lied in the 0 Lice of 750.00 750.00 Recommend $11A00.00 the wn Clerk in ace rdance with a statutory regal counts 2,500.00 1500.00 and t see if the Town ' 1 ac- 20,f00.00 0,000.00 ARTICLE 47. To see hat sum cept t e public way lad out by 1,000.00 1,000.00 the Town will raise b borrow- the Bo rd of Public arks as 3878300 3878300 ing, or from the to levy, or LAKE EW ROAD a to see transfer from availab funds or what so the Town wit raise by 7,2.00 7,225.00 otherwise and app elate for bona , or from th tax levy, 16,0110.00 18,000.00 the purpose of reco tructing a or tra fer from available 6,000.00 6,000.00 portion of High S from Mid- funds or otherwise, nd appro- 3,500.00 31500.00 dlesex Avenue to well Street, priate to the Cron cling of or what it will do in relation said Way r what it ' 1 do in re- 1,900.00 1,900.00 thereto. lotion ther to. Board of Public Works Bo rd of ublie Works 1,400. 1,400.00 Recommend 0 Recommend 4118 .00 ,600. 23,600.00 100. 100.00 ARTICLE 51. 0 see if the 425 5,425.f0 ARTICLE 48. o see what am Town will v e to accept the re- the Town will r ise by borrow. port of the B rd of Public 1, 4 00 1,040.00 ing, or from t e tax levy, or Works upon P e eying out as a 1, 1 .50 1,417.50 transfer from affable (ands or Public Way o Private Way 00 500.00 otherwise approppnet¢ for known as SU YSU)E ROAD 1, 1,085,00 the purpose o resuNacing the e a under the p vision of law .00 ldineral St Bridge, or what authorizing th assessment of .00 350.00 it will do in lation thereto. betterments h highway be- 50 537.50 Bo of Public Works ing laid out i ccordance with 50 550.00 Recommend 5.000.00 Plan duly ap roved by the Board of Su ey td filed in the $ .970. $ 844,970.30 Office of the Tow Clerk in ac- ARTICL 46. To see if the cordance th statutory m. Town will ate to accept the re- quirements nd t see if the $ 9,691. $ 4,691.94 pori of ¢ Board of Public Town will crept a public way LOOO.W 1,000.00 Works up it the laying out as a laid out by the Boa of Public 772500 772500 Public W y of a Private Way known HARVEST ROAD an- Works as SUNNY E ROAD 3,000.00 3,000.00 der the rovision of law author- and to se what so the Town will raise by borrow or from 7,000.00 7,000.00 izing t assessment of better- , the tax 1 vy, ar tea sfer from 500,00 50000 menls,,such highway being lard avail funds or otherwise, 35,991.65 35,991.65 out in Accordance with plan duly and ap prieis far the con - 2500.00 2,500.00 approved by the Board of Survey structio of said Wa or what 9,895.00 9,845.00 and feed in the Office of the Taw Clerk In accordance with it will o in relation costa. SOO.00 500.00 the statutory requirements and Board of Pub c Works 550.00 550.00 to s a if the Town will accept Hecom end $l1A00.00 1,500.00 the public way laid out by the A ICLE 52. To see if the .00 ,500.00 Be rd of Public Works as BAR- V ST ROAD to see what To will vote to accept the re. and part of the Board of Public 75,053.59 $ 75, 59 sum the Town will raise by bar- rgwing, from the lux levy, or Wit s upon the laying ou as a transfer from available funds or f Pit lie Way of a Private Way 250,00$ 00 otherwise, and appropriate for An wR as TRACK ROAD nder 5,000'00 5, .00 tnv construction of said Way or th provision of law ratho zing g t assessment a( term Ala, 3,500.00 3, what it will do in relation mere s ch highway being laid on in I 21,000.00 .00 21, 00 to Board of Public Works cordance with plan duly ap. roved by the Board of Su ey 500.00 500. 'Recommend $1,900.00 nd filed in the Office of he FINANCE COMMITTEE REP Library Assistant Library Clerk 4 Library Hourly Empl I Section YHI Trce net Department S\ugenntenden[ 19 Se rz IX - Police Departm \ Hourly Job Labor Mird- M: Title Grade mm m Chief 23 1 ..te at 18 Screen I Patrol /00- Inspec r Patrolman $6700• $7 $7500 Police Matron 2.50 per h� Section X - Fire Departme, Chief 22 Deputy Chief 11 Captain 18 Lieutenant 15 Private $6700° $7100•' $7500' Call Men - Full Time 24 hours $436.8(. AnnuaH2 Half time $218.40 Annualp Section XI - Fire Alarm Department Hourly Job Labor Mini- Ma: Title Grade mum mu Line n 11 2.72 S. Grou done. 7 2.17 2. on XIII - General Government T n Accountant 17 perintendent I Buildings 15 anitor A 8 2.30 $. • First Year of Employme •• Second Year of Employme •• Third Year of ficaplay Personnel Bo Recommend 'i 22 -9 I REPORT OF FINANCE COMMITTEE ON ANNUAL WARRANT e y Or R(40�� TOWN OF READING MASSACHUSETTS -I96S- - Please Bring This Report With You To Town Meeting — 22 —L h.. +d:? >ce Regishy of Dc, Cs, IS,..._ DAMORIDGC, MASS. Pun Nemhx..._28.0___d 196. . to betaken -F rTown - An]APRIti�)u66r.1o1kSmAm - - --. WRh TdL1lY �eYN of READING I Nilicras+ Real-f Inc. ReaaCed, e6.29,19c8 Hcsln:lln• =goif, Atpd: „r �4�o e.c.�,�nemann L °f _ TowrL�Re i ^4 Ja,9z jiP4 '-.. N fi _.-.� ^ 3 .03'108 1111{° 1 N•7 n � Plan a-S' Land in READING yr to betaken -F rTown 7-, J✓Hd i -iiiea Cor' �o /GSw by the e°a.d.+rs�. �elrbea w•.. er 80 I Nilicras+ Real-f Inc. e6.29,19c8 Hcsln:lln• =goif, H•Kingman A66d++ Re9.3orveyor Rnading '-.. N fi lee Dwe. in Deed Dbellier 4o liiticrf ♦- mo •0 •o I Divide^ee 6ieedow, N o I o., Tcai N M 00 r Lef el' M L o° r 2.8zc3 Aarcr �1rd'yWb.a' y"`t �S M�e8,51 .n C U D i 1 /P ° �keoR II %JS F I W py c ly t 329.80 4° ° Toty f/.BB -o3E. {Ad m Read inj {� l Nil{eren+ Flea{ +y In�.� I (Fkerber'4 A. Fm /y. N�fclrinson a Nich °�J e4al A6T& Bearin¢J bated urgn -U,e Town Fw ,4 plan. Plan a-S' Land in READING .Ipp.eva /o /lh.:+p/<n un ✓ems / /.e to betaken -F rTown J✓Hd i -iiiea Cor' �o /GSw by the e°a.d.+rs�. �elrbea w•.. er Fore si- Purpwes -From MsdmS is n✓q✓�y Nilicras+ Real-f Inc. e6.29,19c8 Hcsln:lln• =goif, H•Kingman A66d++ Re9.3orveyor Rnading '-.. lee Dwe. in Deed Dbellier 4o liiticrf ♦- '�" ��„�> •w Reedy lne•, Be.k 8Ci4- 1.41! -N }ter. '.a {4 / 1 x i i 22 -P u N LIP �q�^s� -e N W X71 I 7V P(IUP;U133R14i —9 m lll''c��� 1 •, os,n0ai yna uT 3v�pssg i' v 3 I 33 fq i,q :ns 30.P.i80H p Ri d l�1 a/ m C G4: :acI i4¢ti:.0 v013TAT44TS 0;11 avyu:, UPTj V,4; 30 TV"addy co L1. � }{arty �;i 399 ZA N o � iiw7pRfl •a axJ� .XJ N r z N 87 t P.iS:1: 4;awin; pm 0 U , ° 0 0 l! ti o W V W a w N O ✓ N WZ O 4z W r 1� er• � Od I d • �3r, Co r � r� .: 11 LLB, KO O V 001° '%° li m v u rd � l *f�1 e A Z�' u J L .yyD -oi I �1 _ � y S6. 5� �C Oi i 10 -rowNaFReading Nm 3 (F(enemaan% ��� d I Oa _ W L L A 3 R�L' -ti IS qYq d o E cy .ro eq`o4nei'8 e$ y 9 u� y34a� °S g oA o. R � o a z o 0 zaa r a 0' u zi 0 c ER u y o 6 N .o c$ ooi ip• IQ 90 'F t d,Nm �n p N 4c � o �•. vutil ti 0a V��e g h 157.67 3e i ocP Fp b.$..tw+^Focest D, s of T =,.T I't !yNI 22 -G c �a Coy 1 � Iw J � V \ C �n p N u � o �•. vutil ti 0a V��e g m $ a 3e i ocP Fp D, s I't K1ei�°V LL 1 Fanm\yo L :. u.ss Read;r+f3 3.00' Cc �APR{L2 1 G8ot101A3mA•m .- wer7AKpN�uc tic. _69 _. NL I Ttwt4.AP- _&EAR.tP46 - -.._ _ e.; l� d, e.001486 Pace _.93 -: a II I za -x @Finaru� 2. his i�" o i ^i a� a p� }: P `\ tP � f i' k. M i f F ? F I 4nVr�y i� : It F ;S} o" B I �r /e i' k. M i f F ? F I 23 March 27, 1968 7:30 PM Room 1, Municipal Building The formal posted meeting was called to order by Chairman James S. Perry, Members present included: James S. Perry, Chairman (( Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Maurice H. Donegan Several Boy Soouts of Reading had requested an opportunity to discuss with the TownForest Committee possible Service Projects which they might do as a requirement for their Eagle Rank. The Saouts, with Life Rank, who same to this meeting included: John A. Anderson Troop 704 Peter Botka Troop 704 Kenneth Converse Troop 704 Barry Drew Troop 705 Dennis Ebacher Troop 728 These Scouts would like to work on a tree planting day. The Town Forest Committee has ordered 2,000 red pines to be delivered about April 15, 1968. Ayeas for each Soout will be determined on Saturday, March 30, 1968, when the Scouts will go to the Town Forest. Each Scout will plan his work, obtain his own work crew, oarry out the work, keep detailed records of what is done, and report on the tree planting. Camp Fire Girl leaders came to the meeting to discuss the use of part of the Town Forest for their activities. The Board of Selectman on XW 18, 1964 had granted them permission to use a parcel of town land, but no definite plane were arranged at that time. The leaders present at this meeting included: Mrs. Andrew Hebert Mrs. Frederick Dngland Mrs. Clark Phillips Mr.Robert Cookson Mr. Robert Fuller, of the Junior Chamber of Commerce, came with a request for work that the JayCees could as to help the Town Forest. This was only a preliminary meeting for the problem of the Camp Fire Girls. Regulations will be established for the ! use of the Town Forest by the Camp, Fire Girls ,_sit these will be similar to those for the Boy Sonata. The area to be used by the Camp Fire Girls will be the so- called Nichols duoodlot. A field trip was arranged for the Town Forest Committee and the Camp Fire Girls Committee to be held at the Nichols t7oodlot onSaturday, March 30, 1968. 124 (I- Teeting on Starch 27, 1968 continued) It was voted to confirm the emergency meeting held on the telephone to close the roads in the Tonn Forest until a later date. Two care had become mired in the muddy roads, and were damaged by unknown individuals. B. E. Nichols will ask H. E. Abbott for bills for services rendered in survey work on the land covered by the three articles in the March 1968 Annual Town Meeting. The salary scale for workers in the Town Forest was discussed. Menride H. Donegan moved that the hourly rate of $2.50 be paid for experienced men, and other men be paid according to their abilities. Benjamin E. Nichols seconded the motion. It was so voted. The meeting was adjourned at 9 :30 PM. March 30, 1968 10:00 AM The field meeting of the Town Forest Committee was held with the Boy Scouts whb warted to do a Service Project of planting red pine saplings. This was held in the Ordway Pit Area. The Town Forest Committee men present included: James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols,Secretary Maurice F..Donegan Boy Scouts present included: John A.Andereon Peter Botka EennethCOnverse Barry Drew Dennis Ebacher Scout dads prevent included: Alex Botka Albert P.Ebacher The area to be planted will be the south portion of the Ordway Pit. The Southwest corner of the Ordway Pit was planted by Boy Scouts on October 12, 1963. The nortlNest corner of the Ordway Pit was planted by Boy Scouts on May 14, 1966. Each Scout was given a map of the area to be plaited, and five sections were shown on each map, with a number for aach section. Maurice H.Dimegan put numbered Slips of paper in his hat, and each Scout drew a number showing which section would be his to plant, 25 March 30, 1968 11:00 AM The field meeting of the Town Forest Committee was held with the Camp Fire Girls Committee. The Town Forest Committeemen Ir esent included: James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The Camp Fire Girl leaders and committee included: Epttr Mre.Robert Cookson Mr. and Mrs. Clark Phillips Mrs.Frederick England The group walked from Divilence Road to the Cranberry Dam through the Nichols Woodlot, so the Camp Fire Girl leaders and committee would have seen the area. With this knowledge, They would be better equipped to begin their thinking and planning which would fit the needs of the girls who will be the ones who will be using the lend. May 11, 1968 The Reading Junior Chamberof Commerce has each year a project for the benefit of their community. This year, the same as last year, their project was a work day, Saturday, May 11, 1968 in the Reading Tarn Forest. This year they cleared the brush from the wood road coming in from the Dividenoe Road area across the narrow Bancroft Woodlot, Nichols Woodlot and Wakefield Woodlat to the Cranberry Dam. They also cleared the brush from the Cranberry Dam, and progress was made in a pine laden area west of the Cranberry Dam. Eight members of the Jaycees worked on this project. James Miller wad in charge o.i the Jaycees. The men working included: James Millar Russell Stone, Jr. Richard Haggerty Richard Allen Leigh Ameden Jeffrey Taylor Donald Takach Douglas Poole The Jaycees were treated to a Boy Sooct style cookout at lunchtime as Firefighter Peter Vincent was on hand to construct a fireplace with accompanying hamburgers, hot doge and refreshments. This was a most worthwhile community project. A "Thank You" letter was written to the Jaycees on May 18, 1968. 26 May 18, 1968 David Galvin, 20 Fairmount Road, Reading has drawn an excellent map of the Reading Town Fordst. This shows the Forest and Water Shad as it exists after the purchase of land voted at the Adjourned Annual Town Meeting on March 23, 1966. This map is filed in this log book in two parts on pages 26 -A'and 26 -B. David Galvin developed this map from aerial photographs ' taken by New England Survey Service,Inc., 566 Atlantic Ave., Boston, Mass, on November 13, 1966, and from "Area Map of Lands Situated in the Hundred Acre Meadow -Great Island - Dividence Swamp & Meadow, Reading, Mass. Compiled by Town of Reading -Board of Public Worke- Engineering Division for Town Forest and Water Supply Development April, 1966 Scale: 1 in.= 200 ft.; in addition to personal observations made in the Forest. The detail is interesting and accurate. David Galvin is a young man who is most interested in ornithology, and writes a column in the Reading Chronicle for bird watchers. This map is valuable to the Town Forest Committee at the present time, and will be of great historical value in the fature. July 29, 1968 7 :30 PM Room 1, Municipal Building The formal posted meeting was called to order by Chairman James S. Perry. Members present included: Jamea d. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Maurice H. Donegan James S. Perry was nominated and elected Chairman for the ensuing year. Benjamin E. Nichols was nominated ami elected Secretary. Chairman Perry will ask State Forester Estes to make recommendations to further benefit our Town Forest. Chairman Perry will talk with Mr. Wing of the real estate company which is developing land on Franklin Street ' regarding a right of way through their land to the Town Forest, which might be formally recorded. Chairman Perry will also get their reaction regarding the possibility of selling aome low land which "a two small ponds. This is the headwater of running water which runs through the Cranberry Dam on its way to the Ipswich River, through a potential water well field area. TO W111 FO)Y6 �6_, ' S(ALE: byw 66FT- J I I.OMniLED FRoM AVA�l AY.cE ,7s CUR Di OY G%A✓D GA,: - +N � JVIVI TA;C )(114D q5 IWNU- OF 0, IV Ivi'muS `S P Rra,� l 9 G 8 CQniS NArC�aD 6BrR/ND!CA,,s Prcorrsrr,r nor �S�'' -- jf fAF7 CF T(GNN FdAF s7 0A\ VV - - OR 5'N P.rcptnrc3 f� s ya Rsr ,t �-- I! OL i c V7 o /, -'' -_- _ AL i' f i R 27 1 July 29, 1968 (continued) Chairman Perry will talk to H. IC, Abbott regarding the drawing of a now tracing of the whole Town Forest and surrounding area which will show: Lots, roads, tree plantings, and the line of high and low lands. The minutes of the previous formal meetings of January 22, 1968 and March 27, 1968 were read and ep proved. It was voted to have Chairman Perry make arrangements to remove the automobile, which had become mired and later thoroughly damaged, from the Forest. The men working in the Forest will cut into shorter lengths some of the trees which have previously been felled, and left where they were cut. The loge will now be in sizes which the Boy Scouts can remove from the woods to the side of roads. This will b e Service and Conservation. pro jsets for the Boy Scouts. Another suggested Service Project for prospective Eagle Boy Scouts would be to spread wood chips around the small saplings which have been planted in the Ordway Pit Area. These wood chips have been brought to this area by Maurice H. Donegan, who is Tree Warden, as well as a member of the Town Forest Committee. Benjamin E. Nichols moved, Chairman Perry seconded, and it was voted: "The area now known as the Bancroft Island, and which was formerly known as Dividence Island, shall be kept forever as a wilderness area, the way it now is, in keeping with the wishes of the ilanoroit family as explained at the Town Meeting on April 15, 1967. Their wishes are recorded in the Log Book of the Town Forest Committee on Page'315 in the fourth paragraph, asd also on Page 21 under date of January 1, 1968." Benjamin E. Nichols moved, and it was voted, to install a cable between the poste at the entrance to the Sourb Oak Hill Area. The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 PM. July 31, 1968 ' Refer to this log book under dates of March 27, 1968 and March 30, 1968. The first planting of the red pine saplings in the southern portion of the Ordway Pit Area was started on April 27, 1968 and was completed on May 12, 1968. Two thousand saplings were planted. 128 Approximately two years ago, Maurice Donegan, Reading Tree Harden, and member of the Town Forest Committee, had dumped several loads of wood chips at the base of the hill on the Ordway Pit Area. The boys put some chips around each saplings to prevent, or retard, the son from totally drying the ground before the roots took hold. There was a good rainfall, which gave the saplings a good I start on their life. The weekend of May 12th brought a rainfall of 0.9 inches, and during the next week the rainfall was 0.4 at one time and 0.9 at another time. Maurice Donegan and Benjamin Nichols helped the Scouts lay out the areas, and start and train the Scouts in the work to be done. Later during the day, Chief James Perry, chairman of the Town Forest Committee came by. He was the one who had located and arranged for the purchase of the saplings. Each of the prospective Eagle Boy Scouts took an area for his group of Scouts. The areas ran approximately North to the South which gave eaoh,,gaoup an extremely hard rook and gravel elope to plant. The saplings were planted in rows six feet apart, and the saplings were planted six feet apart in the rows. The boys who worked with Victor Bosteel Alan Converse uennia �ortcery Tom Corkery Chris Corkum Douglas Corkum George Gale Steven Nagle Dana Schuh Keven Stowell Mark Stowell The boys who worked with Greg Boyd Dan Boyd John Leder William Leder David Miller John Anderson were: Peter Botka were: The boys who worked with Kenneth Timothy Anderson Robert Bennett James Dykene Keith Hall Michael Hanson Bruce Healton Kenneth Howse Mathew Hoyt David Hurley Harold Seaward StevenSmith Paul Tilton Converse were: The boys who worked with Barry Drew were: David Ferris Bill Monahan Bruce Hill John Luchini Fred Doane John McLean William Conary William McHardy Tom Conary AlanCarr Franz Farquahr David Carr ' Steven Rowe The boys who worked with Donnie Ebacher were: Bill Brogna Joe Connors Ron Frotten Dan Gaudet Dan Hurley Ted Martin Tom Nola Steven Poole Peter Rienzo Mike Rose James :,ullivan September 30, 1968 At the regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen it was unanimously voted to issue no permits to discharge firearms in the Town Forest. In addition, the Selectmen's Clerk is to be notified not to issue any permits to discharge firearms in the Town. The Reading Chronicle reported this meeting in the newspaper of October 3, 1968. Prior to this meeting reported above, the Town Forest Committee met with the Board of Selectmen on September 16, 1968 and discussed with them the use of firearms in the Town Forest. Previously the Selectmen have issued permits for the use of shotguns, and this permitted their use during the Upland Game Season in the Fall. The Reading Chronicle reported this meeting in the newspaper of September 19, 1968. October 16, and 18, 1968 Refer Article 59, Adjourned Annual Town Meeting, March 22, 1965 and land taking recorded in the Southern Middlesex Registry ' of Deeds in Book 10782 Page 306 adovering so- called Scrub Oak Hill -- Pierce- Drinkwater land at northeast o comer of the Tan Forest. This land was voted to be taken by eminent domain, and later the Drinkwaters, Trustees of Laura Realty Trust filed suit against the Town of Reading for damages as a result of land taking. The case came totrial in Southern 130 Middlesex Superior Court on October 15, 1968 before Judge Mitchell, with jury. The y,wmm Realty Trust had Nyman Kolodny for their attorney. Their witnesses were; Richard Ruggles, industrial geology professor at Northeastern University. He testified that Scrub Oak Hill was a "kame," and that the gravel in the ground was worth $0.75 per cubic yard. He testified that the I hill contained 400,000 to 500,000 cubic yards of gravel. He submitted samples of gravel taken from the hill. Their other witness was a Mr. Dodge, formerly a state engineer who testified that the property was worth $80,000. as a heliport as its highest and best use. He hedged his statement by saying it also had high use as a residential property. The Town of Reading defense was handled by Town Counsel, James W. Killam,III. He brought the following witnesses: Donald Reenstierna, Arlington, who had appraised the property for land taking in 1965 at a value of $6,500. Ralph Horn, Chairman, Reading Board of Assessors, who testified as to assessed value of property about time of land taking. Roger Iouanis, Acting Superintendent of Board of Public Works who testified regarding the hill, and the lack of access roads. Benjamin E. Nichols testified as to history of Forest and date of November 11, 1957 before which there was no road to the property, and that the road went in after that date. Boyd Stewart, Town Clerk, was available, but did not have to testify as to Zoning of area. Fames W. Killam, III, was able to get into the records: Copy of deed to Laura Realty Trust showing purchase price of $4,000. No access road to area. Town Forest had been closed by Selectmen and ' Town Forest Committee on occasion. Town assessments about 1965. The foreman of the jury was a Mr. Ward who is an architect with Anderson, Beckwith R Haible. On he second day of the trial, October 16, 1966, the $jury awarded the sum of $17,900.00 for damages on the eminent domain land taking. 311 October 1968 A stone bound was set, under guidance of Surveyor Lawrence Webster, at the junction of four lots, three of which are owned by the Town of Reading, and the other by the Meadowbrook Golf Club. The Town lots shown on the Area Map as lots No. 15, 29 and 44. This bound is set in the middle of the brook in the swamp southwest of the Bancroft- Dividence Island. November 12, 1968 4;25 PM A formal posted meeting was held at the home of committee member, Maurice H. Donegan, 21 Federal Street, Reading. Members present: Jades S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Maurice H. Donegan The minutes of the previous meeting on July 29, 1968 were read and approved. Chairman Perry has talked with Wing Real Estate Company about obtaining a right of way from their development off Franklin Street to the wood road running toward the Cranberry Dam. The budget for 1969 of .^2,000. was discussed and voted. The work of previous years will be continued, including the purchase of 2,000 saplings to be planted in the Spring: possible road and trail work through the Forest toward the Cranberry Dam; thinning of trees and general maintenance. Maurice Donegan suggested taking one area in the Forest and transplanting various kinds of trees and shrubs of all sorts. Also, these mivht be set out along the roads in the Forest. This would be a Conservation and Service project for the Boy Scouts of Reading. This project would be good for future generations to enjoy. Chairman Perry continues to work with the surveyors on a new map for the Town Forest. It was suggested asking the snow plow men of the Board of Public ;Yorks to block the Forest roads going in both directions from the Town Forest sign. This would solve the problem in ' previous years of automobiles becoming stuck in the snow, deep in the woods. There was a discussion of the possibility of a new sign to be located near the Pumping Station. This would show the joint activities of the `.Teter Department and the Town Forest. The meeting was adjourned, out not closed, at 5:2d PM. 32 December 9, 1968 8;00 PM Special Town Meeting held at Reading Memorial High School. Article 5 covered the voting of funds to pay for damages awarded to Laura Realty Trust by judge and jury at the Southern Middlesex Superior Court on October 16, 1968. The Sum of y12,692.al was voted, which when added to balance of $9,287.75 left in the account from vote of Town Meeting on March 22, 1965 in Article 59 should pay the judgement of ^17,900.00 and interest, and expenses resulting from this land taking of 12.7781 acres. The balance in this account now totals $21,880,56. This lend first came up for discussion at a Special Town Meeting held on October 27, 1955 under Article 1. On motion of Kenneth C. Latham it was voted that the Town Forest Committee and Board of Selectmen be and they hereby are instructed to make available for the Reading Boy Scouts for a camp site, a portion of the Town Forest and to establish such rules and regulations as they may deem advisable governing the use of such premises by the Scouts. The Reading Department of 2ublic Works drew a map which appears in their files as map No. A -21 -28 showing "Topographical Plan of Area Located in Town Forest to be need for Boy Scout Activities. April 1957 Jane T. Putham, Supt." This map shows the rough area of the high land of this property with contour lines. It was later learned this land did not belong to the Town, but belonged to Nellie B. Pierce, and her family. The Banker & Tradesman for November 18,1961 records the purchase of this land by Louis P. Drinkwater, Jr. at al Tre. from ^ellie B. Pierce, Admx. This transfer took place on November 3, 1961. The Reading Chronicle under dates of July 26, 1962, August 2, 1962, August 9, 1962 and March 4, 1965 carries articles regarding the problem, and later eminent domain land taki.,, by the Town of iicaaing. After the Laura Realty Trust has been paid, and the deed received from them, the land known as Scrub Oak Hill - Pierce- Drinkwater lot will flnall$ become the property of the Town of Reading to be held as a lawn Forest and devoted to the culture of forest Ah trees. 331 December 31, 1968 David Galvin, 20 Fairmount Road, Reading reports the following eighty eight birds were seen in the Reading Town Forest during the year 1968. 1. Green Heron Parule Warbler American Bittern Yellow -, 7arbler Canada Goose Magnolia Warbler Mallard Myrtle Warbler 5. Bla ck Duck 50. Black -thr. Green Warbler Green - winged Teal Blackburnian Rod- shouldered Hawk Chestnut -aided Warbler Broad - winged Hawk Bay - breasted Warbler Ruffed Grouse Prairie Warbler 10. Ring- necked Pheasant 55. Palm Warbler Killdeer Ovenbird Spotted Plover Yellowthroat Greater Yellowlegs WilsonNo Warbler Herring Gull Canada Warbler 15., Mourning Dove 60. American Rodstart Common Nighthawk House Sparrow Chimney Swift Eastern Meadowlark Belted Kingfisher Redwinged Blackbird Yellow- shatter Flicker Baltimore Oriole 20. Hairy Woodpecker 65. Common Grackle Downy Woodpecker Brown- headed Cowbird Eastern ringbird Cardinal Gr. Crested Flycatcher Scarlet Tanager Eastern Phoebe Rose - breasted Grosbeak 25. Least Flycatcher 70. Evening Grosbeak Tree Swallow Purple Finch Bank Swallow Commun Redpoll Barn Swallow Pine Siskin Blue Jay American Goldfinch 30. Common Crow 75. Rufous -sided Towhee Black - oapped Chickadee Savannah Sparrow White -br. Nuthatch Slate - colored Junco Brown Creeper Tree Sparrow House Wren Chipping Sparrow 35. Catbird 80. Field Sparrow Brown Thrasher White- crowned Sparrow Robin White- throated Sparrow Wood Thrush Fog Sparrow Golden - crowned Kinglet Swamp Sparrow 40. RuIrcrowned Kinglet 85. Song Sparrow Starling Great Black- backed Gull Red -eyed Vireo Hermit Thrush Black & White Warbler 88. Veery Tennessee darbler 45. Nashville 'darbler 34 Refer to Pages 3 and 19 of this book for information regarding various lots in the Town Forest. This list below is a continuance of the information on Page 19. Dots Ho. Acreage Book and Page inent Domain Taking Hillorest Realty,Inc. Article 65, Animal Town Meeting, Yarch 23, ' Voted for Town Forest 1968 See Map gage 22 -E in this book. 43 6.0 11486 -087 Eminent Domain taking Unknown owners, but presumed to be the heirs of Charles Wakefield. Article 66, Annual Town Meeing,Maroh 23,1968 Voted for Town Forest See Map Page 22 -F in this book.- 44 3.59 11487 -164 Eminent Domain taking Hillorest Realty Inc. Article 67, Annual Town Meeting,,March 23, 1968 Voted for Town Forest See Map Page 22 -G in this book, which was recorded in Book 11486 -093' (Continued on Page 75) January 6, 1969 The annual report of the Town Forest Committee for the year 1968 was submitted to Boyd H. Stewart, Town Clerk, Municipal Building, Reading, Mass. This report reads as follows; To the Citizens of Reading. We submit our report for 1966. The Adjourned Annual Town Meeting it 1965 voted to take by eminent domain approximately twelve acres of land owned by the Trustees of the Laura Realty Trust, an area known as Scrub Oak Hill. The former owners took the case to c rntrt, and it was decided by judge and jury in 1968 the amount of damages the Town was liable to the owners. The Special Town Meeting In December 1968 voted this sum, and now the Town has a clear title to this land to be held for I Town Forest purposes. Three parcels of land were voted at the Adjourned Annual Town Meeting in March 1968 to be added to the Town Forest. Two parcel totalling approximately six acres were purchased from one party, and approximately six more acres from another party. 351 Boy Scouts planted two thousand red pine saplings in the southern part of the Ordway Pit Area. Other Boy Scout projects included removing limbs from 'bream, clearing brush from the woods, making a corduroy road across a swamp, and picking up rubbish. Scouts camped in the woods in all seasons of the year. They are learning good conservations practices and the love of nature. As a result of these activities, boys, as I well as trees, are growing in the Town Forest. Meetings were held with the leaders of the Camp Fire Girls to discuss a camp site for their activities. The Junior Chamber of Commerce had a work day in the Town Forest. Members cleared brush from the Cranberry Dam, and from the wood road leading to it. The recommendations of our State Forester, Willard H. Estes,Jr., have been continued. The Town was reimbursed N200.00 for acne of this work which has been done in cooperation with the United States Department of Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service. The Town Forest Committee voted at a formal meeting to keep the Bancroft Island as a wilderness Area in keeping with the wishes of the Bancroft family. - A growing activity in the Town Forest is bird watching throughout the year. David Galvin report eighty -eight different species of birds were seen in the Forest in 1968. Each year finds more family groups . taking walks through the Forest to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The Board of Selectmen and the Town Forest Committee met to discuss the discharge of firearms in the Forest. The Selectmen unanimously voted to issue no permits to discharge .firearms in the Town Forest. Mrs. Ruben E. Thelin has found and marked rare shrubs in the Forest. This will add to the interest of the hikers and students of nature. Our Town Counsel, James W. %illam,III, working with the Town Forest Committee filed in the Southern Middlesex Registry of Deeds copies of three votes taken in past years at Town I Meetings to dedicate Town owned lend to the Town Forest. Our Town Forest has grown in size and use since it was first considered and reported in the Annual Report of the Town of Reading for 1922. Respectfully submitted, James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Maurice H. Donegan 136 April 28, 1969 7:30 PM Room 2, Municipal Building The formal posted meeting was called to order by Chairman James S. Perry. Members present included: James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin -E. Nichols, Secretary Irving E. Dickey I Representative of the Junior Chamber of Commerce; Gordon J. Graham Mr. Irving E.Dickey has been appointed by the Board of Selectmen to•fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Maurice H. Donegan, who had been a member of the Town Forest Committee since 1944. The Committee organized for the coming year. B. E. Nichols nominated James S. Perry as Chairman, and he was elected. James S. Perry nominated Benjamin E. Nichols as Secretary, and he was elected. The minutes of the meeting of November 12, 1968 were read and approved,. Mr. Gordon J. Graham came to this meeting as a representative of the Reading Junior Chamber of Qommeree, who wish to take an active part in the Town Forest program. The Junior Chamber of Commerce has three projects which they would like to work on for the betterment of the Town Forest. L. Provide a new sign to replace the present sign which has been damaged by vandals. 2. Crest an arboreta* as part of the Tow nForest. This will carry out the wishes of Maurice H.Donegan who would like to have samples of the various local species of trees identified in the Tarn Forest, and to transplant trees to the Tarn Forest if there are none.of a particular species there at present. Descriptive signs would be placed on these trees. This work will be done jith the guidance of Robert Patterson, teach of industrial arts, at the ' Reading High School. A survey of this project is to be made in the Town Forest on April 29, 1969 at.5:30 PM. Mr. Irving Dickey will invite Mr. Frank Colombo, from the Department of Natural Resources of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 371 3. Two possible long term projects will be considered. A. Building a large body of water abutting the Ipswich River, B. Rebuilding the Cranberry Dam, which might make possible ice skating after the legal, I and physioal,problems are solved on the wood road leading to the Cranberry Dam. Careful consideration should be given to this project to protect the Bancroft Island as a Wilderness Area. The Bancroft Island abuts, the westbrly side of the Cranberry Dam. The new map of the area drawn by H. 1. Abbott, Surveyor, has been delivered, and payment made for it. An increment borer has been purchased for the Town Forest Committee, and is new kept at the home of Benjamin E. Nichols. The sum of $1,767.02 remains in the Town Forest Committee funds for this year. The annual maintenance work will start tomorrow. The first project will involve removing all refuse from the woods. The workers in the past have been off -duty firemen, and this year we may also have off -duty tree department men. The pay scale for these semi - skilled men, who are capable of using a chain saw, was discussed. It was agreed to pay these men $2.75 per hour as part time temporary help, with no fringe benefits. The men will be covered by the Town of Reading blanket insurance. Two thousand Scotch Pine saplings have been ordered, and are scheduled to be delivered this weekend. Benjamin E. Nichols is to arrange with the Boy Scouts for the planting of these saplings. Benjamin E. Nichols moved the co nfim tion of the expenditure of 037.50 for air photos of the flooded area, particularly that around Scrub Oak Hill. These pictures were taken in a joint activity with the Rea-,`ing Conservation Commission, Yx. Russell Stone, Jr. was hired to take these photographs, I which were taken on Thursday, March 27, 1969 in the late morning on a beautiful clear day. 11r. Albert J. Schneider, Chairman of the Conservation Commission,, went on the flight, and took colored elide photographs. Mr. Schneider's slides included the Scrub Oak Hill arBa, as well as additional slides covering the length of the Ipswich River and Cedar Swamp. The third member of the flight was Jilliam L. Durland, who was the pilot. He lives at 116 w.Foster St., Melrose,Mass. The business of the meeting was completed, and the meeting was adjourned. M May 10, 1969 Tree planting day in the Town Forest by Boy Scouts from Troops 702, 704, 728 and 735, and Poet 706. Scouts and Scouters from Troop 728 planted Scotch Pine saplings in the easterly part of the Ordway Pit in the general area from the granite bound toward the nest boundary point 172.1 feet in a southerly direction. Approximately 125 sap�inge were planted here, and 25 more in the southerly section of the Ordway Pit. Eagle Scout Dennis Ebaeher was in charge and he had as fellow workers Scouts Leon LaFrenier,Jr.; Paul LaFrenbre; and John AndreOne along, with Scouters Al Ebacher aid. Leon LaFreniere,St,. Scouts Dana Schuh and Mark Stowell from Troop 704 wored with them in this area. The area on the westerly side of Scrub Oak Hill, starting from the north and was planted with approximately 850 Scotch Pine saplings by Scouts from Troops 702 and 735, and one Explorer from Post 706. Scant Keith Hall was in charge of Scouts fron Troop 702, and they included: Wayne Hgll; Mike - Hanson; Mark Thayer; Allen Rice; Thomas Blanchard and Bill Blanchard, who was age eight, and therefore too young to be a Scout as yet. The Scouts from Troop 735 were under the leadership of Explorer Dave Galvin from Post 706. These Scouts included: Richard Crosby; Anthony Bosohetti; William Brogan III; John Galante; Robert McLoughlin; James Scouten; and James Donovan along with Droop Committeeman Jilliam Bm gan II. Tree 7arden Irving Dickey and Town Forest Committeeman B njanin E. Nichols showed the Scouts the methods used in pl=ing the saplings. During a rest period, Mr. Dickey gave the Scouts an interesting nature talk. May 24, 1969 Another tree planting day was held in the Scrub Oak Hill Was on the west side, and approximately 400 Scotch Pine saplings were planted. This -was a Troop 704 day under the guidance of Scout Dana Schuh. His helpers included: Mark Stowell, Dave Fairchild; Chris Doane; Chris Coveney and Kevin Stowell. Benjamin E. Nichols, who is. a Scouter and Secretary of the Torn Forest Committee, helped with the work. Each work day should include wome nature study. On this work day the Scouts learned the taste of blueberry blossoms and wintergreen leaves. They also saw the wonders of nature that can be seen under a magnifying glass. Approximately 1400 Scotch Pine Saplings is the total which have been planted during these two work days by the Boy Scouts of Reading. 391 June 16, 1969 Municipal Building An informal meeting was held to discuss the possible available lands which might have the joint use for future school and Town Forest pw poses. The various committees represented at this meeting are shown below with their representatives: I Town Forest Committee: James St Perry, Chairman - Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Irving E. Dickey Planning Board of Reading: N1111am Parker',III Jeffrey Taylor School site Committee: Russell Stone, Jr. Conservation Commission: Albert J. Schneider League of women voters: Mrs. Jane H. Celehar Mrs. Francis L. Hayes August 2, 1969 Scout Gary Kendall from Troop 702 Reading Boy Scouts continued his Conservation activities by planting approximately 300 Seothh Pine saplings on the south -west side of Sorub,0ak Hill. He had his brother, David Kendall, as his helper. Two days before this, Irving Dickey had gone to the woods with Gary Kendall and showed him the methods used to plant these saplings. August 16, 1969 Eark Habel from Boy Scout Troop 702 led a party of Boy Scouts including; Mike Hanson, Steve LeFave and Gerry Neumann in setting two granite posts as boundary markers in the Town Forest at points "P" and "0" as shown on the map on Page 39 -A. Surveyor Lawrence "Bueky" aebster located the exact joints for the Scouts. October 26, 1969 At the suggestion of the Board of Selectmen, the Town Forest I Committee met with Boy Scout Leaders at the Pumping Station on Sunday afternoon td discuss the best method of handling the problem of disturbances while Scouts are camping in the Forest. An undesirable element of young people with automobiles has been creating these problems. The following persons, representing their troops, were present at this meeting. 7ayne F.abel Troop 702 John Fairchild 704 gfoseph Power 705 Hubert O'Hearn 728 40 October 26, 1969 (continued) 7illiam Brown Troop 732 'ailliam Brogan 735 Leon LaFreniere 762 Bernard Dickman -- Neighborhood Commissioner James S. Perry, Chairman, TownForest Committee Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary of Town Forest Committee., and active Scouter John Louanis, Town Pumping Station Engineer All agreed it would be best to install a gate, which would be kept under padlock at all t1mea, just beyond the filter house at the beginning of the causeway to the rest of the Town Forest, When Scout troops wish to use the Forest, they will o to the Central Fire Station, get a fire permit, an Indian Pump for fire proteatiop,and the key to the gate. At the end of the camping trip, the pump and the key will be returned to the Central Fire Station. The Town Forest Committee will ask the Board of P4blic Works to design and install this gate, and the cost will be paid from funds of the Town Forest Committee. Also, a request will be made to the Board of.Public 7orks to dump some large rocks to close the dirt road leading from the lagoon to the road going to Point One. These are to be dumped so there will be parking available on the Forest side and on the Water Pumping Station side. The Town Forest Committee wishes to encourage the use of tie Forest by groups and individuals mho will enjoy it and not destroy any part of it. The only purpose of the gate and the barriers made from large rocks is to keep out undesirable persons. November 29, 1969 Mark Babel from Boy Scout Troop 7o2 led another work party in installing three more granite boundary poets along the southern boundary of the Town Forest. These locations are shown as points "V "E," and "D" as shown on the map on Page 39 -A. The Scouts working included; Jim Morris, Mike Hanson, Steve LeFave and Jerry Neumann. Scouter Nsyne Babel was there, but the Scouts did the work. Surveyor Lawrence "Bucky" Webster located the exact points for the granite posts. November 25, 1969 Tuesday evening I Executive session held at home of Chairman James S. Perry. Yembese present included. James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Irving E. Dickey Benjamin E. Nichols moved the aaqual budget of $2,000.00 for regular maintenance of roads, trails c.nd clearing. It was so voted. P as -t `-LnZ c f 0.1 1 n I �I � 9 T > ? "? b' a ty h a a a b / s v Z `cl� 9 �1r 4;1 1 Possible land acquisitions were discussed which might be brought up at the Annual Town #acting. Benjamin E. Aichols moved to hire H. E. Abbott, registered land surveyor, to survey the land of Robert Carlson, vrhich had previously been discussed with Robert Carlson. This survey would develop information regarding the land area and contours. Ah It was so voted. The meeting was adjourned. Annual Report of the Town Forest Committee for 1969 To the Citizens of Reading: We submit our report for 1969. The retirement of Maurice H. Donegan from the Town For -eat Committee durigg 1969 came as a great lose. Maurice H. Donegan was a member of this committee from 1944 through 1969, and his father Henry M. Donegan was a member from the beginning of the Town Forest in 1930 through 1943. Thus, the Town of Reading has had the benefit of the knowledge and interest of this family for thirsty -nine years. The vacancy on the Committee was filled by the appointment of Irving E. Dickey, the Tree Warden for the Town of Reading. He studied at the Essex Agricultural and Technical School to become an arbordst. Hie knowledge and experience make him a fine addition to the Committee. The maintenance and clearing of the Town Forest has been continued using the recommendations of our State Forester. Granite boundary markers were set in five additional locations on the southern boundary of the Forest. Boy Scouts planted approximately twelve hundred Scotch Pine saplings on the west side of the Scrub Oak Hill area, and two hundred on the easterly side of the Ordway Pit. This was only one of the conservation projects of the Reading Boy Scouts. The Boy Scouts continued to hike and damp in the Forest throughout the year. An additional Council Ring similar to the one which was planted I April E6, 1930 has been opened from the Nichols Woodlot area, which was acquired at the Annual Town Meeting on April 15, 1967. Theleading Camp Fire uirla asked the 6eleetmen at their meeting on May 18, 1964 for the use of some town -owned land on the same basis as that enjoyed by the Reading Boy Scouts. This new Council Ring for the Reading Camp FireGirls at last is becoming a reality. 42 Bird watching has continued as a major activity in the Town Forest. Ninety -seven different species- of birds were seen In the Forest during 1969, as reported by David V. Galvin. A quotation from an unknown source tells a lot about any forest. "It is more peaceful than the sea, more enduring than any landscape which bears the marks of cultivation, and is a ' perpetual source of wonder to those whose lives are spent in the urgency of the,_eelf- sufficiency of the enburbe." cities or th& - -- Respectfully submitted, James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Irving B. Dickey December 31, 1969 David V. Galvin, 20 Fairmount Road, Reading reports the following ninety -seven birds were seen in the Reading Town Forest during the year 1969. 1. Great Blue Heron OTeen Heron B1.0r. Night Heron American Bittern 5. Canada Goose Mallard Black Duck Green- winged Teal Blue- winged Teal 10.4001 Duck Ring - necked Duck Bufflehead Broad - winged Hawk Osprey 15.Sparrow Hawk Ruffed Grouse Ringcnecksd Pheasant Virginia Rail Killdeer 20.Common Snipe Spotted Sandpiper Greater Yellowlege Herring Gull Mourning Dove 25.Common Nighthawk Chimney Swift Belted Kingfisher Yellow- shafted Flicker Hairy Woodpecker 30.Downy Woodpecker Eastern Kingbird Eastern Phoebe Least Flycatcher Eastern Wood Pewee 35.Tree Swallow Bank Swallow Barn Swallow Blue Jay Common Crow 4o.Black- oapped Chickadee White -br. Nuthatch Red -br. Nuthatch Brawn Creeper Catbird 45.Brown Thrasher Robin Wood Thrush Hermit Thrash 'Swadneon's Thrash 50.Golden -or. Kinglet Ruby -or. Kinglet Cedar Waxwing Starling Red -eyed Vireo 55.Black &1.7hite Warbler Golden - winged Warbler Nashville Warbler Parula Warbler Yellow Warbler 60.Magnolia Warbler 43 (Yearly Bird List -- Continued) Black -thr. Blue Warbler Myrtle Warbler Black -thr. Green Warbler Chestnut -aided Warbler 65.Blaokpoll Warbler Prairie Warbler Palm Warbler Ovenbird Yellowthroat 70.Wilson's Warbler Canada Warbler American Redstart House Sparrow Eastern Meadowlark 75.Redwinged Blackbird Baltimore Oriole Rusty Blackbird Common Grackle Brown- headed Cowbird 80.Scarlet Tanager Cardinal Rose -br. Grosbeak Evening Grosbeak Purple Finch 85.Oommon Redpoll American Goldfinch Rafoue -aided Towhee Savannah Sparrow Slate- colored Junco 9O.Tree Sparrow Chipping Sparrow Field Sparrow White- crowned Sparrow - White- throated Sparrow 95.Foa Sparrow Swamp Sparrow Song Sparrow March 12, 1970 The Reading Chronicle shows a picture of land adjacent to the Reading Town Forest which was to be considered in Article 26 in the Warrant for the Annual Town Meeting. The legal and financial problems were not cleared by the time this Article was brought to the floor of the Town Meeting, so theArticle was indefinitely postponed. This picture was taken by Russell Stone,Jr. on March 27, 1969, late in the morning. Albert J. Schneider, Chairman of the Conservation Commission, went along on this flight, and took oolored elide photographs. (See report of) (meeting of Town Forest Committee of April 28, 1969 for) (further details of this flight.) March 27, 1970 Maurice H. Donegan, who was a member of the Town Forest Committee from 1944 through 1969, passed away at his home. The Reading Chronicle of April 2, 1970 carried his obituary, and also this fine editorial: MR. DOEEGAN'S LEGACY The Chronicle notes with sorrow the passing of Maurice R. Donegan He was a kind and patient gentlemen , and of a breed we see too little of these days. The fact he worked so long and so hard in the service of this town makes his loss that much more difficult to accept. 44 March 27, 1970 (continued) He was a man who would accept nothing but the most modest accolade, and in our search for words that would have pleased him, we can think of no finer accolade than to speak of him simply as akind and patient gentleman. I April 27, 1970 7 :30 PM Town Building A formal meeting was held, after due notice had been posted in the Town Building. Members present: James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The minutes of the last meeting held November 25, 1969 were read and approved. It was voted to establish an access road from the and of Fox Run Lane through the prospective school area, recently acquired at the annual Town Meeting, to the Cranberry Dem. This access road will basically follow an existing wood,road, as shown on the map on Page 10 -D in this log book. Supt. Roger Louanis of the Board of Public Works and Supt. Robert Wells of the School Department had previously stated it was agreeable with them to establish this road. It was voted to obtain gravel for grading the above road from land under control of the Town Forest Committee, known as the Ordway Pit. The gravel would be taken from the north- easterly bank on the northerly end of the Ordway Pit. Chairman Perry has filed forma with the Agricultural - Stabilization and Conservation Service, 409 Mass. Ave., Acton, Mass. 01720 to apply for fands to cover 50% of the cost to build a Fire Road and Access Road from Fox Run Lane into the eastern portion of the Town Forest. Willard Estes,Jr., Massachusetts State Forester, will be the inspector of the project. Two poles have been set at the entranoe to the Town Forest just beyond the fork in the road that leads to Point One. Two poles have also been set to hold a new sign telling about the Forest. These poles have been set in the banking at the fork in the main road and the road to Point One. The meeting was adjourned. 45 May 1970 Gary Kendall, Boy Scout of Troop 702 Reading, led a party of Scouts on various days planting five hundred spruce saplings. Most of them were planted on the south westerly side of Scrub Oak Hill, and the balance on the easterly side. Irving Dickey, Tree Warden, had purchased these for the Town Forest Committee. The Boy Scouts working under the leadership of Gary Kendall included: - Jeff Baird Dave Kendall Jeff Beers Gerry Neumann Mark Babel Mike Ormsby Bruce Healton - June 15, 1970 7 :30 PM Town Building A formal posted meeting was hela at the Town Building. Member present included: James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Irving E. Dickey The minutes of the meeting held April 27, 1970 were read and approved. The Town Forest Committee was organized for the year with James S. Perry, Chairman and Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary. The purchase of five hundred spruce saplings for a cost of $10.30 was oonfirmed•. These came from the Willow Brook State Forest. They have all bean planted under the leadership of Gary Kendall. Most of these were planted on the westerly side of Scrub Oak Hill, and the balance were planted on the easterly side. The Boy Scouts of Reading have planted many trees since the Forest was started in 1930. It was voted to have Charles Stratton continue to make weekly tripe through the Forest picking up and disposing of litter left on the paths and roads of the Forest. The Camp Fire Girls are beginning to use the new Council Ring in the Nichols Woodlot Area. James S. Perry and Irving E. Dickey will talk with Supt. Roger Louanis of the Board of Public Works regarding the removal of gravel at Point One to be used on the access road from Fos Run Lane to the new Council Ring in the Nichols Woodlot. Consideration will be given to the posable use of town owned equipment to truck this gravel to the site. These three men will discuss the construction of the new parking lot at Point One. 46 (continued) The future control of snowmobiles, mini -bikes and trail bikes in the Town Forest was considered. Chairman Perry has discussed this with Massachusetts Registry Inspector Carl Wood for his thoughts. Mark Stockwell, Boy Scout of Troop 702 Reading, has made and installed Wood Duck house in, or near, the Ipswich River. This is a fine conservation project, The meeting was adjourned at 8;30 PM. June 16, 1970 and June 22, 1970 A SpeciAl Town Meeting, which ran two nights, discussed and voted Article No, lb giving the Tarn a Flood Plain Zoning Law. Three minor amendments were added. The area surrounding the north and northeast side of Scrub Oak Hill now carry the restriction of a ,..contour line at seventy -five (76) feet below which no building may be constructed.. This new zoning law helps protect the present Town Forest from_ construction which might damage the water shed. Other areas covered by the new law include: Cedar Swamp, Bear Meadow and the headwaters of the Aberjona River. August 9, 1970 Michael Ormsby, Boy Scout of Troop 702 Reading,and Benjamin Nichols cleared brush which had been crowding the saplings planted by other Boy Spouts on May 14, 1966 and October 12, 1963 on the westerly aide of the Ordway Pit. August 24, 1970 Chairman James S. Perry and B. E. Nichols met with the Selectmen and Town Counsel, James Eillam III, stating plane of the Town Forest Committee to close the Forest to prevent potential fires and physical harm to persons. Recently there have been groups which appear undesirable having campfires, leaving their refuse and refreshment cane and bottles in the Forest. There is also the weekly cost to the Town to pay for the removal of this refuse. Chairman ferry will auk duet. Roger Souenia of the Board of Public ''works if his men will put large stones in the road at Point One, and Chairman Perry will arrange to install a chain, or cable, barrier between two poste which are already in the ground at the easterly end of the causeway. November 24, 1970 7:30 PM A formal posted meeting was held in the Town Building. Members Present: James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Irving E. Dickey 471 The balance of the 1970 account is $1,017.30 as of now. The Finance Committee included the budget of the Town Forest Committee for 1970 with the Forest Department Expenses. In previous years the budget of the Town Forest Committee has been kept in its own name, and we will request that it be kept the same way for 1971. ' It was voted that Irving Dickey will purchase the material to make seven picnic tables, and the men of the Tree Dept. will manufacture them during the winter. These will be distributed in the Town Forest for the use of picnic groups, in the following locations: 1 at the Old Council Ring 3 at the Campfire Girls Council Ring 2 at Point One parking lot. 1 at the Grove where road from Point One joins the main wood road. The Tree Department will collect logs which can be used for seats around the Campfire Girls Council Ring. Mr. Dickey will bring these to the area when the leaders request them. It was voted to hire men to handle the usual Christmas Tree Watch from December 12th through December 24th to protect the Forest from theft and vandalism. The Budget for 1971 was considered, and was set at $2,000.00. Campfire Girl Leaders came to this meeting at 8:00 PM to disclose the problems involved with the use of the new Council Ring in the Nichols Woodlot Area. Leaders present included. mrs. Robert (Leslie) Fuller Mrs. William (Virginia) H. Bridge,Jr. Mrs. Gerald (Carol) Publicover Problems considered included: Three picnic tables will be installs d in the spring. Camp fires as previously used are illegal, but Fire Chief Perry rn18d that a small 000king fire will be legal. Parking of oars for annual gathering for awards night would more than fill Fox Run Lane. Perhaps the "apple orchard" in the potential school site may be used. I At the present, there are about fifty Campfire Girl units in Reading. The leaders would like to have each unit plant one tree around the perimeter of the Council Ring. Rules and regulations for the use of their area will be written similar to those of the Boy Scouts. M The leaders asked if the girls could have permission to take moss, or Other growing plants, from the Forest. The laws of Massachusetts were discussed as appearing in the General Laws Chapter 266, Sections 113 and 116A. Copies of the General Laws -were given to the leaders present for their guidance. The meeting was adjourned at 9:25 PM. December 31, 1970 David V. Galvin, 20 Fairmount Road, Reading reports the following eighty birds were seen in the Reading Tarn Forest during the year 1970. 1. Mallard Ruby- crowned Kinglet Black Duck Starling Green - winged Teal Solitary Vireo Wood Duck Red -eyed Vireo 5. Broad - winged Hawk 45. Warbling Vireo Sparrow Hawk Black and White Warbler Ruffed Grouse Golden- winged Warbler Ring- necked Pheasant Nashville Warbler Killdeer Parula Warbler lO.Spotted Sandpiper 50. Yellow Warbler Greater Yellowlegs Magnolia Waroler Herring Gull Myrtle Warbler Mourning Dove Black -thr. Green Warbler Chimney Swift Chestnut -sided Warbler 15.Ye110w- Shafted Flicker 55. Blaekpoll Warbler Yellow -bel. Sapsucker Prairie Warbler Hairy Woodpecker Palm Warbler Downy Woodpecker Ovenbird Eastern Kingbird Yellowthroat 20.Eaetern. Phoebe 60. American Redstart Least Flycatcher House Sparrow Eastern Wood Pewee Redwinged Blackbird Tree Swallow Baltimore Oriole Bank Swallow Common Grackle 25.Barn Swallow 65. Brown - headed Cowbird Blue Jay Scarlet Tanager Common Crow Rose- breasted Grosbeak Blaok- capped Chickadee Purple Finoh White -br. Nuthatch Common Redpoll 30.Red -br. Nuthatch 70. Pine Siskin Brown Creeper American Goldfinch House Wren Rufous -sided Towhee Catbird Savannah Sparrow Brown Thrasher Slate- colored Junoo 35. Robin 75. Tree Sparrow Wood Thrush Chipping Sparrow Hermit Thrush White- throated Sparrow Swainson's Thrush Fox Sparrow Veer pSparroww 40.Golden- orowned Kinglet 80. Song M Annual Report of the Town Forest Committee for 1970 To the Citizens of Reading: We submit our report for 1970. A wood road has been opened from Fox Run Lane along the ' edge of theland purchased by the Town for a potential school site. This new road runs to the wood road in the Nichols 7loodlot Area of the Town Forest which continued to the Cranberry Dem. Both sections of the road have been made suitable for a fire track to get into the woods, if necessary. This work was done with the cooperation of the Board of Public Works. The new Council Ring requested by the Reading Campfire Girls now has a wood road leading to it, making this area ready for use. A new parking lot fox motor vehicles has been made at Point One, so that people may leave their vehicles and walk througbut the Forest. This parking area was made available, when the Selectmen, on the advice of the Town Forest Committee, ordered the Town Forest officially closed to motor vehicles. This action was brought about to prevent unsuitable uses of the Forest, which have been going on for some time. Dr. Norton Nickerson has brought his students from Tufts University to inspect the Town Forest which is a fine example of ecology. Bird watching continues as one of the enjoyable features in the Town Forest. Eighty different species of birds were seen in the Town Forest in 1970, as reported by David P. Galvin. The Town Forest Vommittee is most grateful to the Jay Cees of Reading for making and installing a new sign at the entrance to the Town Forest. The Boy Scouts of Reading planted five hundred spruce saplings on the Scrub Oak Hill area. They carried out various conservation projects during the year, which is their way of contributing something to Reading for the privilege of using the Forest in all seasons of the year. ' The maintenance and clearing of the Town Forest has been continued using the recommendations of our State Forester. 160 The Forest is enjoyed by many during all seasons of the year. There are hikers, Boy Scout Campers, bird watchers, family picnickers, and now enowmobilers. Respectfully submitted. James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Irving E. Dickey May B, 1971 Tree planting day in t he Town Forest by Reading Boy Scouts and the Reading Junior Chamber of Commerce. The Town Forest Committed had purchased 1,000 Scotch Pine tree year transplants and 500 Hemlock four year transplants from the Western Maine Forest Nursery, Fryeburg, Mal:ae, at a cost of 4190.00. About 450 Scotch Pine were planted in various areas in the Ordway Pit Area, under the direction of Scoutmaster Donald Morrison from Troop 706, sponsored by Austin PreparstorySghool. About 400 Scotch Pines were planted on Scrub Oak Hill under the direction of Mark Stowell, who is the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader of Troop 704, sponsored by the Congregational Church, Reading. Some of the Hemlocks were planted from Point One south by the Junior Chamber of Commerce. The balance of the transplants were heeled in at the Tree Department, off Haverhill Street, by Tree garden, Irving Dickey. The tree planting project was organized for the Boy Scouts of Reading by joint chairmen: David Galvin and Kenneth Converse. The Boy Scouts working on this project included. Troop 706 Greg Moore Tom Lewis Billy Sullivan Tim Morrison James Sloss Scott McGrath Mike Hall Bob Heffernan John Lawlor Troop 705 Gary Carr Troop 720 Ronald Brogan Troop 762 Paul LaFreniere Scoutmaster: Donald Morrison �': �p f �� _ •, ",t s� '.'� r r :!i ! � � �! , �l._ �� ;� r ,' ���� I. r �. �� 1I :!i ! � � �! , �l._ �� ;� r ,' ���� I. 511 Troop 704 Chris Coveney Joey Belmonte David Faisohild Kevin Dyer William Carlyle Russ BOabach Mike Humphrey Leo Kashian Jamea Walsh Scott Stanton Jay Forest Edward Doane Chris Doane Gary Stanton Troop 726 kark Barren Mark Sullivan Mike Russo Leader: Assistardt Senior Patrol Leader Mark Stowell The Junior Chamber of Commerce built a canoe ramp at Point Op6, as well as their tree planting project. The men working on these projects included. Doug Poole Ken Latham Brad Latham Irving Dickey Dave Johnec n Dick DOLOng Bud Graham Phil Parker, Jr. John Harris John Powers Jeff Taylor Syd Hodson, Jr. Bill McGowan Dave Blake Jim Lanctot Donald Young Bill Burditt John Salami The Reading Chronicle published some good pictures of this work day in their copy of May 13, 1971. Town Forest Committeemen James S. Perry, Benjamin. E. Nichols, and Irving E. Dickey worked on these projects during the day. 1 52 April 12, 1971 7:30 PM A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Chairman James S. Perry, 15 Pratt Street, Reading. The following members were present: James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Irving E. Dickey ' It was voted to purchase 500 Hemlock four year transplants and 1,000 Scotch Pine three year transplants for a total cost of $190.00 from the Western Maine Forestry Nursery Co., Fryeburg, Maine. Chairman James S. Perry will file for a rebate from the U. S.Department of Agriculture for "75.00 on the purchase of trees under Section A- 7- Forestry Practices. The Town Forest Committee organized for the coming year, with James S. Perry elected Chairman and Benjamin E. Nichols elected Secretary. The pay scale for semi - skilled men, who are capableof using a chain saw, was discussed. It was voted to pay these men $3.00 per hour as part time temporary help, with no fringe benefits. The men will be covered by the Town of Reading blanket insurance. It was voted to furnish the lunch to the men of the Junior Chamber of Commerce ontheir work project on May 8, 1971. Irving Dickey will put out the picnic tables, made during the fainter, in time for the opening,of the fishing season. He will purchase chains and padlocks to secure these tables to trees. Men have been hired for the forest watch during the three opening days of the fishing season. The Hemlock and Scotch Pine transplants will be purchased, picked up and brought to Reading on May 7, 1971 in time for planting the next day. If the ground in Maine is not suitable to get the trees, the planting day may have to be put forward. The minutes of the last meeting on November 24, 1970 were read and approved. The meeting was adjourned at 9 :25 PM May 12, 1971 7:00 PM Meeting with representatives of Meadow Brook Golf Club to discuss mutual problems of boundaries, and problems with motor bikes and snowmobiles. 531 The Meadow Brook representatives present included: William Marshall, President John Forest, Greenkeeper Floyd Brown The TownForest Committee members present included: James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary. We took a walk along the Old Hundred Acre Road pointing out joint boundary points, and the fact that the Road was an old Town Road. The Town doreat Committee feel it would be used for :fire trucks, Town Forest work equipment, golf club equipment and players, and occasionally groups such as Boy Scouts going in to camp at night. The repair of the road was discussed, including filling in some of the hollows, and filling in the sides of hills in the road to make it more passable. At present there is a chain between two poste at the top of the Ordway Pit Hill, where the Club road swings easterly onto the fairway. The Club would like to have some boulders brought in to reduce the width of their opening. James Perry will work this out with John Forest and the Board of Public Works. The Town Forest Committee is planning to ca rk with the Board of Public Works in filling in the low spots on the road down the Ordway Pit Hill, The group then walked to the southwest boundary of the Ordway Pit, which is a mutual boundary with the Club. The Club representatives did not realize their property extended as far in this direction. The boundary line of the Club and the Board of Public Worke that runs about 720 feet to Grove Street was shown. The Club representatives realize now theW have a valuable piece of potential residential property on Grove Street. Chairman James S. Perry has a copy of a map of the Meadow Brook Golf Club drawn by Dada & Abbott in 1925, which is black on what probably was once white paper, but has now aged. Secretary Benjamin E. Nichols has a blueprint copy of thin same map in the files. This map snows the road from Grove Street through the present Golf Club property which ' goes to the part of the Town Forest now called the Ordway Pit. The wording beside this road reads, "Old Road to Hundred Acre Meadow." See also the map in Book 11553 Page 120 in Southern Middlesex Registry of Deeds, which was filed regarding the dedication of this piece of property to the Town dWeeto and devoted to the eglture of forest trees: Sae also in this Log Book on Page 6 -C a copy of this registered map. 154 It is interesting to note the wording in the deed of the Ordway Pit property from Campanella & Cardi Construction Company to The Inhabitants of the Town 01 Reading on July 27, 1959 which appear in Book 9776 Pape 363, in.the Southern Middlesex Registry of Deeds. The wordizW in the deed reads, "following an old town or bridle way." The wordire on the map of 1225 And the deed. Of 1959.Oan be oomaidered the_,authority for the inhabitants of the Town of Reading to use the road through the property of the Meadow ' Brook Golf Club as a "Right of way" to go from Grove Street to the Town Forest. May 22, 1971 Kenneth Lever in Boy Scout Troop 702, sponsored by the Old South ieethod.ist Church, ran a cunservation project fox his Life rank in Scouting. His Scout workers from his troop included: Tom Blanchard, Mark Habel, Allen Rios, Don Norton, Steve Norton and Tom Fuller. They out down the small and defective trees on the small knoll going into the Forest just beyond the filter house. August 26, 1971 The Reading Chronicle carried a map of the Town Forest on the Editorial Page. The following information was printed undernea h the map. This map prepared by David V.Galvin shows the 252 acres of Reading's Town Forest and wellfields, located in the Northwest corner of town. The Forest is comprised of about 152 acres acquired piece by piece over many years, ana dedicated to recreation and conservation. The remaining 100 acres contain the town's water supply, its welifields. The entire parcel is critical watershed land adjacent to the Ipswich River. Engineers and scientists are firm in their belief that the Ipswich River and its watershed will soon be the lone source of domestic water for not only Reading, but most of the communities which lie along its banks. Identifiable land marks on the map include the town filtration and pumping plane at the end of Strout Ave., and the system of paths(dotted lines) and roadways through the Forest. Vehicular traffic is banned in the Forest, but the area is used extensively by campers, picnicers and nature lovers. August 30, 1971 7 :30 2M I i s iormal posted meutind of the a'own sorest 0ommitzea was held at the residence of Chairman James S. Peery, 15 Pratt Street, Reading, Mass. Members present included: James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Irving E. Dickey 551 Chairman Perry reported the balam a remaining in the 1971 budget is $1,354.62, which included ?89.00 received from the United States Department of Acricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service covering part of the cost of the saplings which were planted earlier in the year. ' It was voted to ask Elmer Dykens to work tour hours each week at $5.00 per hour, with no fringe benefits, to go through the Forest and collect and remove any refuse which has collected. This work will continue until the snow flies. Chairman Perry telephoned Mr. Dykens, who agreed to do this work. It was voted to authorize 411liam Mao3rien to use the Town's tractor grass cutting equipment and clear the brush and grass from the roads in the Forest. It was voted to write a letter to David V.Galvin, 20 Fairmount Road, Reading, thanking him for his efforts over the years in motivating the townspeople to acquire and use the Town Forest. Chairman Perry will talk with Town Counsel dames Killam III regarding the responsibility of the Town when mini -bikes and snow- mobiles are used in the Town Forest by under age drivers. The records of the meeting of April 12, 1971 were read and approved. The meeting was adjourned at 8 :45 PM. December 31, 1971 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE FOR 1971 To the _ Citizens of eading: We submit our report for 1971. The Gla goad from Grove otreet to hundred ..ore .meadow through the Meadow Brook Golf Club and the Ordway Pit Area has been developed into a passable road. The gravel for the road was obtained in a gravel bank In the Ordway Pit. ' Picnic tables have been constructed and placed around the Forest so family groups may enjoy the woods. Dr. Norton Nickerson again has brought his students from Tufts University to study ecology in field work in our Forest. The saplings which were planted during the last decade are growing well, and time alone is needed to bring them to their full growth. The older trees are growing better now that ouch thinning has been done. 156 The Jay Case held their annual work day in the woods. They built a canoe ramp at Point One, and planted hemlock saplings. The Reading Boy Scouts have continued their active conservation activities in the Forest, and have camped and hiked there during the year. The maintenance and Clearing of the Town Forest has Dean I continued using the recommendations of our State Forester. Good conservation practice requires further thinning of the Forest. Respectfully submitted, James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Irving E. Dickey January 7, 1972 The Boy Scouts of Reading have been active in conservation practices, including planting thousands of saplings, in the Forest sines the time it was opened in April 1930. They have camped and hiked during all seasons during the years since 1930. The rules and regulations for the use of the Forest by the Boy Scouts of Reading were brought up-to-date with the following letter to all Boy Scout troops in Reading. To All Boy Scout Troops in Reading: In 1955 Boy Scout Troop leaders made a request to the Town that an area be granted for their use. Arrangements were made and on November 11, 1957 the area now known as Scrub Oak Hill was opened. The troops which were present drew lots for their locations. The other troops were later assigned lots. Since that time, many changes have taken place. Some troops went out of existence, and other troops stopped using the area. Recently, several leaders have requested the use of sites for the exclusive use of their troop.. The heading Town Forest Committee has taken the existing maps and has assigned individual areas to each of the current active Reading Boy*Seout Troops. There are now eleven troops in Reading, so it was impossible to use only the Scrub Oak Hill Area, and the land opposite the so- called Council Ring ' has again been reopened for Boy Scout use. A copy of the maps showing the location of each troop in the Town Forest is enclosed with this letter. The management and care of the town forest is in charge of a Town Forest Committee appointed by the Selectmen under authority granted to them by the General Laws of Massachusetts 1.' 56 -A i 7v � o U,r • �ING- b6 -B Al /N i ♦ % N N /�/ f r / I 1 r ' -�� ✓.i A ``�. A� IEtL JcgcC- d��Ur. ,rj -ppy U!- ,9AcR LCCA7G7 IH_7uwNFoRFS.i- .Tm...^�E- Dr71A Arm e ,v1 or- .??u 41clVo[yr- y 571 under Chapter 45, 3eotion21. We point this out to stress the responsibility of the Town Forest Committee to care for this valued resource of our town. For this reason and to prevent misunderstanding regarding the use of the town Forest, we are listing the following regulations: The area assigned to each troop may be considered for its use as long as the troop continues to be rechartered and continues to actively use its area. No live trees, shrubs, or any. growing plants are to be out or removed from the forest without the written permission of this committee. A fire permit must be obtained from the Fire Department before any fire of any size whatever is started. The location of the fire area must be checked with this committee. If any troop does not follow these regulations, or follow good conservation practices and good judgement, permission to use .anarea is subject to revocation. The so- called Council Ring is for the use of all Reading Boy Scout Troops, as well as all the people in the Town. Each unit should check with this committee before making definite plans to use the Council Ring to prevent too many troops planning to use it at the same time. These regulations are subject to change if necessary. We believe all of our Reading Boy docats should enjoy good Scouting under this plan. If you have any questions, please get in touch with any of us. Yours in Scouting, James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Irving E. Dickey (Note: See pages 56 -A and 56 -B for the assigned areas.) May 26, 1972 Thomas Blanchard, of Boy Scout Troop 702, planned, developed and carried out a Conservation Pxojeot as part of the requirements for advancement to Life Sooat Bank. 158 ivay, 26, 1972 (continued) He supervised the work of the following scouts from his troop. Jon Nelson Paul Wexler Michael Hanson William Blanchard David Kendall The following Soout Leaders from his troop also worked under his supervision. Bernard Dickman Herman Kendall Benjamin E. Nichols The project involved planting a large number of Scotch Pine and Hemlock saplings on the southeast area of Scrub Oak Hill. This was a two day job. The same day,s6ventesnGirl Scouts from Troop 306 sponsored by the Birch Meadow School came to the Town Forest on a bicycle ride with their three leaders. Each of the girls planted a Scotch Pine ..as:pling on the south west side of Scrub Oak Hill in one straight line going approximately west from the road. The girls working included: Melissa Baldwin Colleen Burke Liag Buckley Joan DiGiovanni Donna Forrest Deborah Henderson Lynn Macaluso Pamela Miller Lisa Murray Jane eaxaons Jean Parsons —Joan Pellani Laura Rotondi Diane Scott Noreen Payne Kathleen Payne Patricia Gallagher The leaders included: Mrs.DiGiovanni Mrs. Forrest Mrs. Murray June 13, 1972 1:30 PM A formal posted meeting was held at the Town Building. Members present included: James S. Perry, Chairman Irving 6. Dickey The meeting was held to interview Arnold Miner, Keene, N. H. who came to the meeting with an offer to purchase six inch Red Pine posts on the stump, which are in the Town Forest. 58 -A �RovTE 93 rri c N 0 N 7 T b s 1 v < IZ Y � o� m T ti q0 D C Z •0» S 1VE 1 1 F O � ME 5p fl N SL G � C o O 2 Z n q D y O (D _Z D Q W rr � U) W rr 2 Z 3: 0 � { i \ / / 3 S ƒ 16� / j k \� k \ N P�._ CY) T_ ) \ ) (/ i) \\ })} Pa \ \ \(. 2! ;!\ \ \ \ }\ r |/{\ \\ })@ .!a!) ;f!-! }]120 \)) }�} !!! }{{ !! ;> / ! kf\ k {�) )a_ June 13, 1972 (continued) Mr. Miner was introduced to the Town Forest Committee by State Forester, Willard H. Estes, Jr. The meeting was adjourned to the Town Forest for an inspection of the problems concerned with the sale of these posts. Mr. Miner explained if he is permitted to purchase the poste, ( he would out the trees, out and flatten the slash from the balance of the trees. He says he is now cutting posts in Dunstable, Mass. He agreed to send a copy of the type of contract he has with the committee in Danstable. The count of the posts would use the "Mill Tally Sheet" which is a list of the logs accepted at the mill. Mr. Miner offered $0.10 (ten cents) each, or $18.00 (eighteen dollars) per thousand poster which -he -tskos to the mill.board feet of marketable timber. This problem was discussed with Town secretary, Richard Gould, and he and Irving Dickey will go to Dunstable to check on the work of Mr. Miner in its various phases. When a copy of the contract is received, it will be given to Town Counsel for his comments. James Perry understands Mr. Miner originally came from Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, and he will check on this background information. June 13, 1972 Refer to map on Page 56 -A. This is a descriptive Sheet which includes the rules of the Town Forest. This is the same map which was reported in this log book under date of August 26,1971. This sheet was printed for general use by the public. July 10, 1972 7:00 PM, Municipal Builds ng A formal posted meeting was held. Members present included: Janes s. terry, Ohairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Irving E.Dickey The report of the meeting of August 30, 1971 was read and approved. The report of the meeting of June 13, 1972 was read, amended and approved. There is no new information regarding the potential sale of red pine posts to Miner. The Annual Town Meeting in March 1972 voted funds for the Board of Public Works to construct a new gravel packed well in the low land east of Point One in the Town Forest. A map was brought to the meeting which shows three potential routes for the pipe line to run from the well to the Pumping Station. The Town Forest Committee unanimously agreed that Route 1 fits best into our plans for the Forest. The cost for this Route 1 is estimated by the Board of Public Works to be $7,32G.00. so The Town Forest Committee would consider furnishing some of the gravel to make a now road into the Swamp to the new well Bite. Elmer Dykens, who has done a fine maintenance job in the Forest, is retiring from this job and his position on the Fire Department late this summer. Irving Dickey will discuss with Timothy Spillane. about thepossibility that he would take over these I part time maintenance duties at a rate of $3.00 per hour, with no fringe benefits, and he would be guaranteed four hours of work each week for those weeks he is delegated to work. If he needs to use his truck to remove refuse, the Committee will negotiate with him as to the charges for the use of his truck. The Town Forest Commitee was formally organized for the coming year. James S. Perry was elected Chairman, and Benjamin L. -Nichols was elected Secretary.- It was voted that James ff. Perry will contract with William MaoBrien to mow the sides of the roads in the Forest. The meeting was temporarily adjourned to later meet the same evening in executive session with the Selectmen to discuss the joint current problem in the Town Forest. July 17, 1972 7:00 PM 15 Pratt St., Reading, Mass. A formal posted meeting was held. Members present included: James S. Parry, Chairman Benjamin E, Nichols, Secretary Irving E, Dickey The report of the meeting of July 10, 1972 was read and approved. It was moved and voted to hire Timothy Spillane for Town Forest maintenance starting July 23, 1972, Elmer Dykema will work through the period July 22, 1972. It was agreed the next meeting would be held at the Municipal Building, July 24, 1972, at 7:30 PM. The contract to cover work which may in the Town Forest was discussed. A sent to the firm of Tyler & Reynolds, for the Town, for their comments. The meeting was adjourned. be done by Arnold Miner copy of this will be the legal counsel M1 July 24, 1972 7:30 PM, Municipal Building, Reading,Mass. The following members were present: James S. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Irving E. Dickey The report of the meeting of July 17, 1972 was read and approved. It was moved and voted that the ''own Forest Committee will permit the Board of Public Works to construct a new well and appurtenances on land voted by town meeting and deeded to the Town f( Town Forest purposes. The Town Counsel will be asked to draw a formal release to cover this situation. The Board of Public Works had been given instructions by the State Department of Health to obtain this release, even though the Town Forest Committee operates under the General Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Chapter 45, Section 21, which dyes not give the Town Forest Committee control over watersheds. The problem of undesirable persons in the Town Forest who have been congregating at Point One, has been discussed at various,times with the Chief of Police, the 6uperintendent of the Board of i'ublia Iwarks, and the Board of Selectmen. The reaction of these boards has been that although it might be desirable to forcibly remove these persons im:.,edistely, this program is unfortunately hampered by our current laws, and the present program of buying "peace" for the whole Town, end buying "time" may be the beat method to be used, at least until Labor Deg 1972. The Selectmen state that the Forest can be cleared of these undesirable persons at any time, if the conditions change and warrant this serious move. The meeting was held with Donald Connors, Town Counsel, regarding the contract with Arnold -Miner to thin the red pine trees in the Town Forest. A copy of this contract may be found in this log book and marked as pages 62 -A through 62 -G. The meeting wasadjourned. October 15, 1972 Mr. Arnold G. Miner carried out his contract by cutting and removing red pine from the forest, and left the slash in neat rows beside the rows which he cut. In order to prevent a possible disease to the standing pine trees which canes from the stamps remaining in the ground, it was necessary to dust the stumps with borax. This work was done by David Ferris and John Upton. Thpy:.dusted a total of 2,626 stumps. 62 December 31 1972 ANNUAL REPHT OF TEE TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE FOR 197E To the Citizens of Reading: We submit our report for 1972. A major thinning of the red pine trees in the Forest was done according to the instructions of the State Forester. This involved removing every third row, ' allowing more light and Boil for the remaining trees. It will be advisable to make selective cutting in about five ywars. The work was duns by, and the loge sold to a professional woodsman from New Hampshire. The project was almost completed when vandalism of the woodnnan's equipment made it impossible to continue. During the summer, all the picnic tables set out around the Forest during the last two years were destroyed by a group of vandals, who carried the tables tb Point One and burned them. The collection of refuse left by the vandals has been a continuing problem. A new gravel -pads d well is being installed by the Board of Public Works at the edge of the swamp west of the old Council Ring on Town Forest land. A service road will be built across the swamp to connect with the pumping station. Dr. Horton Nickerson again has brought his students from Tufts University to study ecology in field work in the Forest. Two large areas used by the Boy Scouts of Reading now have designated areas for each of the local Troops. The boya have hiked and camped in the Forest daring all seasons of the year. Both Boy Scouts and Girl Scout planted red pine and hemlock saplings on Bomb Oak Rill. The Camp Fire Girls are now using the new Council Ring in the easterly section of the Forest near Fox Run Lana.. A descriptive sheet has been printed in quantity which lists the rules and regulations for the use of the Forest, and includes a map drawn by David V. Galvin. These sheets have been distributed and are available to anyone interested. Respectfully submitted, James S. Perry, Chairman I Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Irving E. Dickey 62 -A CONTRACT Agreement for Sale of Red Pine Posts This agreement made this 26th day of July 1972 between the Town Forest Committee of eading, County of Middlesex, Commonwealth of Massachusetts hereinafter called the vendor �lhich expression shall include its heirs, assigns and trustees, where the context so admits nd Arnold Minor of Nelson County of Cheshire State of New Hampshire hereinafter called the vendee, which expression shall include its executors, administrators, assigns and agents. In order to carry out a program of good management and to carry out the recommendations of the Dept. of Natural Resources, State Forester, which are attached hereto, and timber stand improvement of the Town Forest area herein described relating to said management and improvement, The Town Forest Committee hereby agrees with Arnold Minor as follows. The vendor hereby agrees to bargain, sell and convey all its rights, title and interest and th€ vendee agrees to purchase said interest in Red Pine trees, approximately 4,000 in number as marked and designated by the vendor within the area shown on attached map. Only trees so marked will be cut by the vendee. No area will be clear cut which shall mean no tree over 9" DBH shall be cut. The vendee will pay as liquidated damages ten times the stumpage value of each unmarked tree cut, provided that he will not be liable for this penalty in felling small trees when making necessary skidways as authorized herein. Unmarked trees and reproduction will be protected against damage during logging, and wood roads and streams will be left clear of brush and tops, skid roads will be kept to a minimum number and where there is any deep rutting or erosion problems they must be put back auto reasonable good condition before leaving the job. Such roads to be located only where pproved by the vendor prior to construction or clearing for said roads. / a The vendee shall have the right to enter upon the above described property for the purpose of cutting and removing said timber. The vendor agrees that the vendee may use necessary equipment to conduct the job of cutting and skiding the timber. The vendee may construct skid roads and rollways for the purpose of transporting logs from the above described property so long as they are reasonable and approved by the vendor 62 -B ® ® ®lbefore construction or clearance for said roads. The vendee must abide by good forestry fire safety practice and forest fire and forest !_cutting practice laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. He shall conform to the terms and conditions of the State of New Hampshire laws regarding timber harvester's licencing. All slash must be leveled as close to the ground as practicable. The vendee agrees to conduct the cutting and logging upon said property in a proper and workmanlike manner and shall use the best forestry practices relating to selective forest cutting. All cutting shall conform to the attached recommendations of the State Forester. The vendor agrees that he has ownership and the right to sell all timber marked or shown for cutting. Title to all timber remains with the vendor until paid for and no cutting may be initiated until a down payment of $250.00 is made, balance to be paid within 10 days after job is done. Vendee will pay to the vendor 100 per standard 6" diameter Red Pine post. The vendee shall be deemed as an independent contractor and shall comply with all federal, state and local laws and regulations. We withhold the vendor harmless from all legal actions against it and the Town of Reading. The vendor shall not be responsible for unlawful acts or injuries to persons or property caused by the vendee. Any logs, equipment or material left upon said described property after the expiration if this agreement of sale shall become the property of the vendor. The vendor agrees to allow the vendee until 11/30/72 to remove all marked timber, materials, logs and equipment. The vendor reserves the right at any time without penalty to terminate the agreement upon any violation of any of the terms and condition of this agreement. 40 62 -C I The vendee operates on said property at his own risk and the vendor is not responsible j any accidents or injuries to the vendee, the vendees personnel or his equipment. Inessed: Signed�wlni.�%C Vendee Address�� Signed i Vendor Address 16 Lowell St., Reading, Mass i I O LU �Za w � N N s Q 62 -D 0. a E z 0 F a V J 6E -7 /p`%aiJr«e l�a.iega�l( `'eadiq wee �e� ✓f �Q8'J sseX s% j{ar� i �roril . !•�QS.i. /)Cc. r !or<C2- �Ww- �/'.iXLvliH -4a17 1 d���7. cN /pWn.e,yw �( n - / p'aI ZL ,v J a ,. i 62 -G 14 631 March 26, 1973 8700 PM Municipal Building The formal posted meeting was held in the Municipal Building. The following members were present: James 5. Perry, chairman Benjamin E. Nichols,Secretery Irving E. Dickey The secretary's report of July 24, 1973 was read and approved. It was moved and voted to approve all actions of this committee during the preceeding year. Chairman Perry reported the funds of the Tarn Forest Committee as of the present. Carried over from 1972 $1,275.89 Reimbursement from U. S. Depat. of Agriculture for tree planting. 63.00 :appropriation voted at Annual Town Meeting in March 1973 for - 18 months period. 3 000 00 4,33 .89 The following officers were voted for the coming year. James S. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Chairman Perry reported he has discussed with John Tormey, assistant superintendent of the Public Works Department, the problem of automobiles and attendant unfortunate situations. We agreed to discuss this with the Board of Selectmen, but later that evening the Selectmen were sitting in Executive Session, so this discussion had to be postpouea. 6a apreea Us,t under the present conditions, the entire Town Forest and Water Department areas should be protected by closing the entire area for motor vehicles by a gate at the Grove Street entrance, backed if necessary by police force. Chairman Perry has notified William MaoBrien of the dangerous condition created by the Public Works men at ?'oint One, when digging gravel for the road across the swamp to the new well. The meeting was adjourned. M September 16, 1973 Meeting was held at residence of Irving E. Dickey, Oise Chairman Yembers present included the following: James S. Perry, Chairman Irving E.Diskey, Vise Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary James S. Perry notified the committee that he wants to ' resign membership on this committee as he has moved to d9Ifeboro, iiew Hampshire, even though he is retaining his legal residense in Reading, Mass. It was moved and voted to-make the following offer to George D. MacMillan, 10 Farrow Street, dinsheater Mass, for lend which is in the name of his deceased father, which is in the northern part of the Town adjoining the Town Forest. Benjamin E. Nichols was instructed to communicate wkth Mr. MacMillan with the offer. , Swamp Land 0100-.00 per acre High Land 200.00 per acre The minutes of the meeting of Marsh 26, 1973 were read The meeting was adjourned, and approved. Desemser 20. 1973 6:45 I'M Municipal Builddmg A formal posted meeting was held. Members present: Irving E. Dickey George B. Perry Benjamin E. Nichols James S. Perry, who had been a member of this committee from 1959 through most of 1973 has retired to 3olfeboro, New Hampshire, and has resigned form the Town Forest Committee. He had been chairman of this committee for all of those years. The present committee organized, and the following members were nominated and voted for the following offices: George n. Perry, chairman Irving E. Dickey, Vise Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary I The minutes of the previous meeting on Septembet 16, 1973 were read and approved. The appointment of David Harlow, or any other pereon, to watch the Town Forest to prevent the removal of live shrubs, trees or plants of any sort was confirmed. The par for this work was voted to be $3.00 per hour, with no fringe benefits. This watch duty was to be done on the three weekends prior to Christmas. The first two 65 weekends would be covered on Saturday and Sunday, and the third weekend would be covered on Saturday. Sunday and Mondayy. This year Christmas comes on Tuesday, and on Monday many persona are not at their usual employment. The annual salary of $100.00 was voted for Mies Eleanor Taylor who handles the financial bookkeeping for the Committee. Irving E. Dickey will arrange with her to ' have this item put on the weekly warrant. It was voted that a plaque should be obtained as a memento to our former chairman, dames S. Perry, for the benefits to the Town Forest that were the result of his efforts over many years. Irving E. Dickey will investigate the purchase of a suitable plaque. The problem of the removal without permission of wood from both dead and live trees from the Forest was discussed. It was agreed that the removal should be stopped, even though there has been mush publicity of a shortage of heating energy, of various kinds. It was agreed that it is our opinion that eventually the entrance to the 'later Department and the Town Forest should be closed at Strout Avenue and Grove Street. Until chic has been dens, the 'Town d'orest would oe closed at the location of the sign, and also at Point One. George B. Perry will discuss with Chief Mitchell of the Fire Department if it is agreeable with him to make this initial closing with large boulders. The Forest shtald be open to those Reading residents who would like to hike in the Forest. It will still be permissible for Boy Scouts and Camp Fire Girls to tamp in the Forest. Steven Rhodes, a member of the TownReereation Committee, asked this committee for our consideration of the use of the Forest, during the Bicentennial Year beginning in May 1975, for visiting family campers from oat -of -state who may be coming to visit Reading. At the present time, the Committee is of the opinion that it will not be feasible to open the Forest for the following reasons: Not enough open space available. Health and sanitation problems. Cost of supervision and police protection. ' George Perry will discuss with Chief Beaudoin of the Police Department the possibility of the purchase by this committee of portable radio communication equipment, so that anyone working in the Town Forest could have direct eommunis,. tion with the Police Department should the need occur. The meeting was adjourned at 7:25PM 66 December 31, 1973 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TOWS FOREST COMMITTEE FOR 1973. To the Citizens of Reading: 'No submit our report for 1973. James S. Perry, who was a member and Chairman of thda ' committee from 1959 through 1973 resigned, as he has moved out of state. During his years on the Oommittee, sixty -seven acres were added to the Forest. The use of the For eat by various groups increased during his fourteen years. Mr. Perry's unexpired term was filled by the appointment of George B. Perry. Dr. Norton Nickerson again brought his students from Tufts University to study ecology in field work in the Forest. Boy Scouts of Reading hiked and camped in the Forest in all seasons of the year. The Camp Fire Girls have continued using the new Council Ring in the easterly section of the Forest. The refuse left by irresponsible persons continues to be a problem. Because of the energy crisis, the general public has recently become conscious of the value of our natural resources, such as the Town Forest. Respectfully submitted, George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary December 31, 1974 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE FOR 1974. Ti the Citizens of Reading. We submit our Report for 1974. The Forest has been used by Boy Scouts for camping and m I conservation work. The Camp Fire Girls have had day activities. Church groups have used the easterly Council Ring for day affairs. The usual brushing of the roads has been done. 67 Vandalism and the leaving of refuse continue to be a problem, and makes it unpleasant,if not impossible, for many persons to enjoy the Town Forest. Respectfully submitted, George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary November 29, 1975 Saturday 9:00 A.M. Town Forest, Fox Hun Lane The formal posted annual meeting was held. The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary - Visitors present included: Richard R. Dixon Nancy Nichols Dixon The group walked from Fox Run Lane to the Council Ring at the Nichols Woodlot area. The minutes of the last meeting on December 20, 1973 were read and approved. The committee reorganized with the following officers: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary It was voted to confirm all actions of the committee since the last meeting. It was voted to order 1000 maps of the Town Forest from Delmer Cotreau, similar to the ones which he printed for 1972. George Perry agreed to handle arrange- ments. The maps will be updated to show changes. Chain link gate at Strout Ave., and Grove Street s. Update names and titles on front page. Shaw date of 1976. Check with iavid Galvin, as he has offered to make changee on the map. It was voted to purchase 500 Red Pine and Scotch 'Pine saplings for spring planting in the forest. It was voted to authorize the annual salary of $100.00 to Eleanor Taylor for handling bookkeeping for the Town Forest Committee. Irving Dickey will handle with Eleanor Taylor. Irving Dickey will check on the plaque,which was authorized at our meeting on December 20, 1973, to be given to James S. Perry. The meeting was adjourned at 9:45 A.M. March 22,_1976 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE. To the Citizens of Reading: We submit our report for the year 1975, and through the current date. The Forest has been used by individual and family groupa for hiking and nature study. St.Agnes Parish held a "Folk Mass" and a family picnic on a Sunday afternoon for about one hundred parishonere. A group of about thirjry young people from the same parish took a bicycle trip through the Forest. Boy Scouts continued to camp and hike in the Forest throughout the year, and carry out their Good Turns by doing various conservation projects. Our Committee has cooperated with the Selectmen's Planning Staff, by giving them information about the various parcels of land which make up the Forest. Vandalism, which has been a great problem in recent years has been reducea now that the entrance to the Pumping Station Area has been protected by a chain link fence. Respectfully submitted, George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols,Secretary April l0, 1976 10;00 AM Town Building Parking Lot A formal posted meeting was held. Members present: George B. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Visitors present: Wayne Babel Frederic Neumann Robert Shannon 69 The secretary's report for the meeting held on November 29, 1975 was read and accepted. It was voted to confirm the acts of the Town Forest Committee regarding the possible acquisition of land of Chester A. Ellison, which is adjacent to the present Town Forest. This land is shown on Assessors' Plat 221, Lots 4, 5 and 6. There is an article in the Warrant for the next Annual Town Meeting to vote on the 8oquisition of this land. Chester A. Ellison has given the Committee a signed sales agreement at a price of $1,000.00 per core for approximately 8.6 acres. The Committee is committed for the following expenses: 1. Opinion of Value by William Dolben & Sons $125.00 2. i4apa for filing and bearinbe for the Town Meeting Motion. Cost not known at present, 3. Legal and filing fees. Cost not known at present. The saplings voted in the last meeting have been ordered, but the actual order now covers 250 Norway Red Pine and 250 Spanish Scotch Pine, as the supplier does not have any Hemlock available. The printing of the 1000 maps of the Town Forest voted at the last meeting has been delayed until the Committee learns if the land of Chester A. Ellison will be added to the Town Forest by vote of Town Meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 10:07 A.M. May 10, 1976 At the adjourned Annual Town Meeting on May 10, 1976 under Article-42, the town meeting members voted 139 to 17 to purchase 8.827 acres of land from Chester A. Ellison to be added to the Towniorest. Article 42 called fox the sum of 49.000.00 to be transferred from the "Sale of Real Estate" account. Thus, this amount did not come from the current ' tax structure. This land appears on Assessors' Plat 221, Lots 4, 5 and 6. Chester A.Ellison had given the Town Forest Committee a signed sales agreement, but for legal reasons the land was taken by eminent domain. The Town Meeting was finally adjourned on May 28, 1976 and the Selectmen signed the Order of Taking on June 7, 1976, which is within the legal time for signing. The Order of Taking was filed at the Southern Middlesex Registry of Deeds on June 11, 1976, and appears in Book 12992 Page 451. 170 May 10, 1978 (continued) The costs incurred with this purchase were: Opinion of Value $125.00 Map tracing and detail 130.00 Purchase cost and .proportionate taxes 8,829,98 ailing Fees 17, 13 9,1 2.1 Distribution of charges: Town Forest account. $125.00 Sale oS Real Estate account. 8 977 11 9,102.1 This purchase adds another fine piece of land to the Town Forest. Refer to Page 70 -A of this book for map of this parcel. September 23, 25, 26, 1976 Boy Scout Troop 702, sponsored by Old South United Methodist Churoh, spent the weekend in their Scout area on Scrub Oak Hill. Sixteen Scouts and their leaders camped with clear, but cool, weather. Scouts camping out: Jay Perry Dan Driscoll Ken Thompson KeTin Ballou Bill Thompson Kurt Habel Bill Hughes John Klepeis Scooters camping oTernight: Fred Ueumann George Perry Scooters who came, but did Leon La Freniere Ron Boucher Ben Nichols Keith Klepeis Craig Quimby DaTe Boucher Tony Palmer Don Freeman Mark Tewksbury Jeff Rogers Rufus Clark Wayne Rebel -till Hughes not stay oTernight: The boundary point at the south east corner of Scrub Oak Hill lot, which shows on a map of 1962 as "Pipe and Stones," was located by using scout knowledge along with maps, compass and measuring tape. The Scouts working on this project included KeTin Ballou, Jeff Rogers, DaTe Boucher and Bill Thompson. The Scouters included Ron Boucher and Ben Nichols. The chances are that no one had been to this boundary point, which is in thick brush, since it was put in by the surTeyor --- maybe it had been put in prior to 1962. 59 s� I II1r 7 N F I 19 a a C 70_A MV \1•iinx '„ AlA1V� v� lei � \.Vy(1i f •9S�n wit •r ir_ i .`�.� i vil T'- i I • g1 Jt. • •ai i �f i6 f r a WJ d'd n Y al '� ` • \i rf t 59 s� I II1r 7 N F I 19 a a C 70_A MV \1•iinx '„ AlA1V� v� lei � \.Vy(1i f •9S�n wit •r ir_ i .`�.� i vil T'- i I • g1 Jt. • •ai i �f f r a WJ d'd n Y al '� I r at VIP ^A W GGG ' 1� F- •rOI iFI: I I2992 I g1 Jt. • ``3. r a WJ n Y �e6:`lh P a: a Y %.9f T I Fj =at� uy�25o F- •rOI iFI: I I2992 711 October 82, 23, 24, 1976 Troop 702 Boy Scouts had another fine weekend in the Town Forest. Seventeen Scouts and five Scouters were present during the weekend. The Scouts and Scouters continued the search of boundary points, which was started at the last cempout reported above. The search involved starting at the point found at the last cempout, and going north along the east side of Scrub Oak Hill two distances of 64.0 feet and 298.45 feet, and coming west from the northwest corner of property recently acquired from Chester A. Ellison a distance of 565.0 feet, to a point where these two measurements come together. Thus, the approximate boundary point has been located. Wooden stakes and stones were put at this point. Scouts camping out, or Kurt Rebel Kenneth Thompson Mark Tewksbury Bill Hughes John Klepeis Phil Rittenburg Dave Boucher Craig Quimby Kevin Ballou coming for part of the weekend: Keith Klepeis Peter Tewksbury Bill Thompson Rufus Clark Bill Corbett Lance Brown Jay Perry Dw Driscoll Scouters camping overnight: Fred Neumann Ron Boucher Bi11DaTis Sooutera who came, but did not stay overnight: Floyd Brown Ben Nichols Sow is working on the boundary search: John Klepeis Keith Klepeis Rufus Clark Days Boucher Kevin Ballou icouters working on the boundary search: Fred Neumann Ron Boucher Ben Nichols December 27, 1976 7:05 PM Room 2, Municipal Building A formal posted meeting was held. Members present: George B. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Irving E. Dickey, Jr., Vice Chairman, was on vacation. 72 The report of the last meeting held on April 10, 1976 was read and approved. The Committee reorganized with the following officers: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dlokey,Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary It was voted that the Secretary write the Tarn Accountant to clear the balance of $22.89 from funds voted in the May 10, 1976 TAwn Meeting under Article 42. All bills have been paid to date. It was voted to confirm the acts of individual committee members since the last committee meeting. It was voted to pay Carol White for drawing and revising the map of the Town Forest, which will be later printed in 1000 copies. The information and rules to be included on the new map were discussed. Benjamin E. Nichols will ask the TownCounsel regarding the acceptance of responsibility by the Town Forest Committee and the Town of Read[ng of the liability for injury incurred by anyone while walking or riding a motorized vehicle in the Town Forest. Also, the Town Counsel will be asked if this information should be included,with the rules, on the new map. The meeting was adjourned at 7:35 PM February 7, 1977 7:30 PM Room 2, Municipal Building A formal posted meeting was held. Members present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Jr.,Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Yichols,iscretary The minutes of the last meeting on December 21, 1976 were read sit approved. The problem of the request of citizens of the town asking for permission to out firewood was discussed. There is little suitable firewood available at present due to the heavy snow cover on the ground. The Forestry Department of the Town has trucked to the Tarn Dump on John Street the limbs of trees damaged by the recent storms. It was decided that the best source of firewood for the citizens would be at the John Street Dump, and citizens should get in touch with the Forestry Department at 181 John Street. n 731 The map drawn by Carol White, for the new maps of the Town Forest, was checked and approved. It was voted to pay Carol White $40.00 for her work. The rules and regulations to be printed with the map were discussed. The meeting was adjourned at 7:50 PM. I March 16, 1977 ANNUAL REPORT OF TEE TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE. To the Citizens of Reading: We submit our report for the year 1976, and through the current date. A parcel of 8.827 acres was added to the Town Forest by purchase from Cheater A. Ellison as a result of a vote at the Annual Town Meeting in May 1976. The area of the Town iiorest and adjoining Water Department lands is now approximately 277 acres. Guided tours of the Forest were given by 'a member of the Committee for several Cub Scout packs. A Girl Scout Brownie troop held a cookout.. The Conservation Commission sponsored hikes in the Forest. Boy Scouts continued to camp and hike in the Forest throughout the year, and carry out their Good Turns by doing various conservation projects. The number of trees in the Forest was increased by plantings of additional Norway Red Pine and Spanish Scotch Pine saplings. During the winter, there has peen more..- aotivity with the use of snowmobiles and cross country skis. At other times of the year, the Forest has been used by individuals and families for hikes and nature study. Respectfully submitted, George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Diokey,Jr., Ties Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary 74 June 29, 1977 7:30 PM Room 2, Municipal Building A formal posted meeting was held. Members present: George B. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Ndchols,3ecretary The minutes of the last meeting on February 7, 1977 were read and approved. ' It was voted to have the usual trimming and brushing of the TownForest roads done by William MacBrien. Mr.Dickey will inform Mr. Mac Brien and will supervise the work. It was voted to pay the following bills: Insurance bill from McNally & Parker Insurance Agency,Inc. for floater renewal on equipment. $35.00 Invoice from Conway Associates for purchase of one Indian Pump Can complete. 82.00 T13'T.3d The supply of 1,000 maps of the Town Forest and Watershed authorized to be g inted by vote of our Committee on November 29, 1975 has been received from Del Cotresu -- Offset Printing Service,Inc., Reading, Wass., and the invoice of $38.25 has been paid. A fire in the Scrub Oak Rill area on Friday, April 16, 1977 burned about five acres. It started about 1:30 PM according to the Fire Department, and took about three hours to bring under control. Chief_ Robert Pratt believes it may have been started by a spark from a motor bike which did not have a spark arrestor. In order to make a record of this fire, Benjamin Nichols, Secretary of the Town Forest Committee, made arrgngements with Richard Lindstrom to take Teddy Cox, photographer for the Reading Chronicle, and Benjamin Nichols on a flight in his Cessna airplane to take air photographs of the burned area. The Reading Chronicle carried a short note about the fire in their issue of April 20, 1977 and carried a photograpk in the May 4, 1977 copy. A copy of this same photograph is in this log book and appears as Page 74A. The fire travelled from the Scrub Oak Rill eastward toward the swampy area where the wet ground brought the fire under easier control. The firemen reported that an I old tall dead tree which has been a landmark for years was burning, and the firemen out it down. This dead tree shows on the map covering the land purchased for the Town Forest from Henry Fienemann in 1964 which appears in Middlesex South Registry of Deeds Book 10547 Page 113. This picture in Reading Chronicle May 4, 1977 Article in Reading Chronicle about this fire - -April 20, 1977 Reading Town Forest Burned area in Scout Area. Fire was nnFriday, April 15, 1977 Burned abut 5 acres. 751 The Cub Scouts of Pack 702 had a Sunday afternoon day in the Council Ring off Box Hug Lane. About 35 Cub Scouts took part. A number of adult leaders showed the Cub Scouts fire building, first aid, planting of trees, safety in use of knife and hatchet, and nature in the woods. The adult Scouters of Powder Keg District held their last meeting of the year in the Council Ring off Fox Run Lane. Approximately 35 Scouters had a cookout and annual meeting. The'Committee Meeting adjourned at 7:55 PM. Refer to Pages 3, 19 and 34 of this book for information regarding various lots in the Town Forest. This list below is a continuance of the information on Page 34. Lots &o. Acres a Book and P e 45 8. -8-27- 1299E -4 inept domain taking with sales agreement from Cheater A.Ellison. Article 42, Adjourned Annual Town Continued on Page 95'. Meeting, May 10, 1976 Voted for Town Forest. See map on Page 70 -A in this book. March 24, 1978 7:30 PM A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Chairman George Perry, 230 Franklin Street, Reading, Mass. The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Hichols,Secretary The records of the meeting of June 29, 1977 were read and approved. 'Lhe committee reorganized with the following officers: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey,Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichole,Secretary It was voted to confirm the acts of the individual members of the committee since the meeting of December 27, 1976. The annual report to the Town was read, approved and signed. It was decided to consult with William MacBrien about the advisability of scraping some of the roads in the Forest. The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 PM. March 24, 1978 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE To the Citizens of Reading: We submit our report for the year 1977, and through the current date. A fire in the dorub Oak will area on April lb. 1977 ' burned over approximately five acres. Fire Chief Robert Pratt believes it may have been started by a spark from a motor bike which did not have a spark arrestor. This is the only serious fire in the Town Forest in many years. An up -dated map, along with the Rules of the Town Forest was made available for distribution. Several Cub Scout and other youth groups were taken on guided tours of the Forest by a member of the Committee. These young people are learning about nature, and to respect the woods, which belong to all of us. Year after year the Boy Scouts continue to camp and hike in the sorest throubhout the year, and do various conservation projects as part of their Good Turn. Each year more cross country skiing enthusiasts use the Forest. The Forest is used by individuals and families during all seasons for hikes and nature study. Respectfully submitted, George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dlckey,Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary June 29, 1978 7:30 PM. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Chairman George B. Perry, 230 Franklin Street, Aeading, Maas. The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The records of the meeting of March 24, 1978 were read and approved. It was voted to write the Town Accountant, Raphael W. McDonald, with a request for him to encumber the balance of our account of $1.216.43 as 'of June 30, 1976, so these funds will be continued into the next fiscal periods. 77 1 The condition of the roads in the Forest was discussed. Irving E. Dickey will confer with the other Board of Public Works personnel 90 that arrangements may be made to brush the aide of the roads in a joint effort. The letter of the Board of Selectmen dated June 20, 1978 requesting information concerning the 10% reduction of departmental costa was discussed. The vote of Town Meeting I Jane 8, 1978 requested that this information be returned not later than October 1, 1978. The TownReports for the years shown below give the costs charged to this account. 1974 $1,685.57 1975 187.04 1976 263.92 1977 225.25 1978 T 47 �,4 This gives an average expenditure of $482.25. A tentative budget has been planned for the next fiscal period, but the letter showing these figures, and the 10% reduction, will not be sent at this time. Trash pick -up 4150.00 New plantings lbU.UU Insurance on equipment 35.00 Heavy tree removal 145.00 480.00 The approximately 171 acres in the Town Forest is a valuable resource of our Town. Much of the maintenance in the Forest has been, and will be, done with volunteer work by the Boy Scouts of Reading. No land acquiaition is planned at this time. The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 PM. February 21, 1979 7:30 PM e formal posted meetinb was held at the home of Uhairman George B. Perry, 230 Franklin St., Reading. Maes. The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Ddckey,Jr., vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary ' The following visitor was present: Mrs, Virginia Adams The records of the meeting of June 29, 1978 were read and approved. 78 The Park Department of the Board of Public Works has a need for 150 red pine trees with a diameter of 10 to 12 inches. These would be debarked, and treated with wood preservative. They would be used as parking buffers in the various town parks and playgrounds The Park Dept. Previously used poles from the Municipal Light Dept., but these are no longer available. It was voted to allow the Board of Public Works to cut 150 red pine trees which have a diameter of 10 to ]2 inches I at cheat high. This work would be done with employeea of the Public Works Dept. under the direct Supervision of Irving B. Dickey,Jr., who has charge of tla Forestry and Parke Department The Secretary of our Committee is - instructed to write a letter to the Board of Public Works authorizing this work as sh -wn above. This letter will Include a paragraph suggesting at a future time the Board of Public Works might cooperate with the Town Forest Committee with the use of some of their heavy power equipment. The annual report to the Town was discussed, and the items which will be .included in it. A letter regarding Public Officials Liability Insurance dated February 13, 1979 was received from John W. Agnew,Jr. Executive Secretary of the Selectmen. This letter requests certain financial information which will be furnished to him. Irving L. Dickey,Jr. will arrange to nave a sign made, and posted in the Town Forest stating, "Unauthorized Motor Vehicles Prohibited Anywhere in the Town Forest." "Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages on Premises:. will be Prmeouted by Law." After the signs have been posted, George B. Perry will take photographs of them for proof, if it is needed at some future time. The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 PM. March 19, 1979 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE To the Citizens of Reading: We submit our report for the year 1978, and through the current date. I The Town Forest has been actively used by Cub Scouts and other youth groups for hikes and nature study. A member of the Committee has led these guided tours, and has taught the young people the responsibility of oaring for the Forest. 791 Various Boy Scout troops have camped in the Forest during the year. Their Good Turn slogan is carried nut in their onnservatinn work in the Forest. Your Committee will continue to work for the benefit of all persolle in-Reading in the onntinued care and use of the Tnwn Forest. Respectfully submitted, George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey-,Jr. Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Richnla,georetary June 20, 1979 7:00 P.M. - A formal p ^sted meeting was held at the h ^me of Chairman George B. Perry, 230 Franklin St,, Reading, Maas. The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey,Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Rich -1s, Secretary The minutes of the meeting of ebruary 21, 1979 were road and approved. It was vnted that the Secretary write the Tnwn:Eeonuntant, Raphael W. McDnnald,-with a request fnr him to encumber the funds in nur a000unt as of June 30, 1979 in the amount of $1,876.43 an that these funds will be c ^ntirued intn the next fiscal period. The seri ^us gypsy m ^th problem in the Tnwn Fnrwat was discussed. Irving E. Dickey, Jr. has discussed this with the Board -of Health, the C ^nservati ^n Cemml9einn, the - Finance Committee, and the Superintendent of Peat Central of the Commonwealth ^f Massachusetts. We plan to bring this problem bef ^re the Subsequent T ^wn Meeting in N ^vember 1979. Irving E. Dickey, Jr. will check ^n the c ^sts ^f spraying. Approximately one hundred red pine trees were out in the T ^wn F ^rest by the Department ^f Public Works, as approved in ^ur meeting ^n February 21, 1979. In order t^ prevent r ^nt rnt, Irving E. Dickey,Jr. will obtain the approval to hire a man to spray the stumps with bnrax. He will ask Timothy Spillane to do this w ^rk. ' The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 P.M. March 2, 1960 1:00 P.M. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Chairman George B. Perry, 230 Franklin St.,Reading, Mass. The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The minutes of the meeting of June 200 1979 were read .q and approved. The annual report to the'lbwn was discussed, and signed. It was voted to confirm the acts of the individual members since the last meeting. The committee reorganized andt he following officers were re- elected: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving,E. Dickey, Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The infestation and control of gypsy moths in the Town Forest was discussed. It is expected this subject will again come before the next town meeting. It was voted that the Town.FArest Committee will take the same position regarding the manner of handling this problem as is taken by the Superintendent of Moth Work of the Town of Reading. It was voted that Benjamin E. Nichols will arrange to have 1000 maps printed of the Tbwn Forest. The meeting was adjourned at 1:.15 P.M. Marcy 2, 1980 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE To the Citizens of Reading: We submit our report forthe year 19799a nd through the current date. Guided tours of the Forest were given by a member of the Committee for several youth groups. Boy Scouts continued tocamp and hike in the Forest throughout the year, and carried out their Good Turns by doing various conservation projects. The Board of flAblic Works cut approximately one hundred mature red pine trees, which will be used as car bumpers at various Town playgrounds. The infestation and control of gypsy,,, moths in the Town I Forest and environs has been discussed and 'voted upon at the Subsequent Town meeting in November 1979. Respectfully submitted, TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary 811 February 10, 1981 7:30 P.M. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Chairman George B. Perry, 230 Franklin Street, Reading, Mass. The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin L.Sichols, Secretary The minutes of the meeting of March 2, 1980 were read and approved. It was voted to confirm the acts of the individual members since the last meeting. It was voted to purchase batteries, at a coot of approximately,$60.00, for the portable two -way radio. Refer to the report of February 21, 1979, at which time authorization was given to purchase signs to be installed at the entrances to the Town Forest. Irving Dickey reported he has bolted one sign to a tree at Fox Ran Lane and another at the entrance to the Ordway Pit Area from the Gravel Pit off Strout Avenue. The information to be included in the Annual Report to the Town was discussed. This report will be typed, signed and submitted. The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 P.M. February 18, 1981 ARMTAL REPORT OF THE TOWN FOREST COMCiITTEE To the Citizens of Reading: We submit our report for the year 1980, and through the current date. Fifty years ago on April Po, 1930, the Aeadin6 Town Forest was formally dedicated. .Since that time, many people have enjoyed this area with its trees, swamps, high lands, animals and birds. It is one of the permanent treasures owned -by all the people in Reading. ' The guided tours of the Forest have again been given by a members of the Committee for several youth groups. Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Campfire Girls have camped and hiked in the Forest during all seasons, and have done various conservation projects. Ongoing maintenance and surveillance has been continued. M Because of the high coat of fuel and the energy crisis, there have been many requests to out wood in the Forest. If permission were granted, it would be necessary to supervise the cutting to prevent damage to the Forest, and to the trees on lands of abutting private owners. Since there are insufficient funds for superVision, no permission has been granted. Respectfully submitted, TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE ' George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nlchola,Secretary March 4, 1981 Refer to Page 1 of this Record Book in which it states: "The present Town Forest Committee is unable to locate records, or files, of previous years, and Is now starting a new record book." A copy of the annual report of the Town Forest Committee has been located in the Town Report for 1954. this has been copied, and appears in this book as Page 82 -A. This report gives some of the early history of the Forest. May 5, 1981 A trip to the Town Forest over the Old Town Road was made with a group of young Campfire Girls, who called themselves the "Kittens." Mrs. Joyce Sunderman 1s their leader. Benjamin Nichols gave a guided tour, and helped the girls collect seven small white pine saplings south of the Old Council Ring. The girls plented them on the southwest side of Scrub Oak Hill. The girle on the hike included: Cezanne Sunderman, Mary Beth Griffin, Pamela Cotreau, Berri Ann Saltzman and Dawn Marie Woodland. One brother came also, and his name is Erinn Slanderman4 One girl, Keri O'Keefe, was unable to come on the hike, but the girls planted a white pine sapling for her. ianuary 10, 1982 4:00 P.M. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Chairman George B.Perry, 230 Franklin Street, Reading, Mass. ' The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Benjamin B. Niohole, Seoretary The minutes of the meeting of February 10, 1981 were read and approved. 82 -A. Following appears on Page 157 in Town Report for 1954. (See Page 85 in this Log Book for additional) (early history of the Town Forest,) REPORT OF TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE Feb. 14, 19555 To the Board of Selectmen Town of Reading Reading, Massachusetts Gentlemen: We wish to submit herewith our annual report on the Reading Town Forest for the year ending December 31, 1951. The Town Forest first planted with seedlings In 1930, is now a reality, with healthy, vigorous stands of White Pine, Red Pine, Spruce and F.emlock rapidly nearing marker able size. The citizens of Reading owe a vote of gratitude to Lhose who, twenty -five years ago, had the vision and foresight to plan and plant a Town Forest, which was acquired in 1930, comprises 200 acres of lard, and has had 149,000 seed- ling trees planted to this date. During 1931, Reading District Boy Scouts of America aided mater- ially in furthering improvements at the Town Forest by participating In President Eisenhower's National Conservation Good Turn. Two group wm I. days were held at the forest, one in .March and one in October, as well as many Troop, Patrol and individual work days through the year. Each troop was assigned a project consisting of one of the following methods of Silviculture; trimming and pruning forest trees, removing diseased or scrub trees, removing undergrowth, cutting fire lanes, and preparing new areas for planting seedlings. Several areas of scrub -oak waste land have been reclaimed for planting, and will be planted with White Pine seedlings In the spring of 1935. A Forester from the Massachusetts Forest and Park Association has Inspected the Town Forest an? recommends selective marketing of cer- tain areas for pulp wood. When this is done, a cash return will be realized, and the Town Forest will become self - supporting. ^The, Twm Forestwas posted during the year during times of extreme fire hazard, and a Forest Fire Patrol maintained by the Fire Depart- ment. Preceding the Christmas season, it was necessary to employ 'guards at the Town Forest to prevent the illegal cutting and removal of small trees and evergeen boughs by pesos seeking b procure Yuletide decorations at the expense of the Citizens of Reading. In the nast much damage has been caused by unlawful and promiscuous cutting of spruce, fir and hemlock trees. Your Committee recommends the acquisition of a tract of land on the Southerly perimeter of the Town Forest. Negotiations haws been made with the present owner for purchase at a nominal price. With the cooperation of the Board of Public Works, a steep, rough portion of Town Forest roadway is being removed for better access to the Forest by Fire Department vehicles, the gravel being utilized by the Public Works Department for highway construction. When mm- plated, the present 14a gradient of the roadway will be reduced to a 5% gradient. Iva wish M express our appreciation to all Municipal departments and civic organizations who have aided is in furtherance of the To'.cn Forest during the year. Very respectfully yours, HUGH L. EAMES, Chairman MAURICE U. DONEGAN JAMES T. PUTNASI Town Forest Co ::mince 82 -1 Followir4l appears on Pages 292 and 293 in Town Report for 1938. REPORT OF TOWN FOREST To the Honorable Board of Selectmen, Reading, Massachusetts. Gentlemen: It was voted at our last March meeting that the Selectmen purchase a parcel of land of twelve acres adjoining the Town Forest. The Welfare cut 45ya cords of wood and cleared the land for plant- ing the trees. This job was not completed until December 31, 1937 which made it too late to plant. This parcel of land has made a big improvement to the forest. Twelve thousand trees of white and red pine were ordered and the Welfare Department act them out this spring. Three hundred trees were lost by fire this year by careless smokers of cigarettes. A man living on Concord street saw this fire before it had spread far, and he called the Reading Fire Department by phone, otherwise we might have had a serious loss. Our first planting of trees have grown to the height where they should be trimmed of their lower branches. This will require men of good judgment. Planting of trees by years as follows: 1930 .... ............................... 20,000 1931 ... ............................... 17.000 1932 ... ............................... 11,000 1933 .... ............................... 7,000 1934 ... ............................... 20,000 1935 ......... ......................... 50.000 1936 ... ............................... 1,000 1937 ... ............................... none 1938 ... ............................... 12,000 Total .. ............................... 13000 Loss ... ............................... 27,000 Leaving ............................... 111,000 The loss of 27,000 was from poor stock, winter killed and fire. These trees were given free of charge by the State Department of Conservation. The estimate of 111,000, present number of healthy growing trees, is a big asset of the Town Forest to the Town of Reading. The 1938 budget appropriation was $300. This was not enough to 292 (Sontinned on Page 82 -BB) i (OontixluedfYDm Page 82 -B) keep a watchman for eight months in the year, and we should keep a man to guard our forest against fire or other dangers that could happen to the forest, for at least eight months in a vcar. We would recommend the planting of a thousand or more trees this spring. The work that has been done by the W. P. A. on the Town Forest is: Five thousand feet of cart roads throughout the Town Forest have been widened to 20 feet, low places filled and knolls cut down. This work has required 2052 cubic yards of earth excavation, 2260 cubic yards of gravel fill and 8560 square yards of gravel surfacing. Sixty. four acres of the Town Forest have also been cleared of brush under this project. This project will continue late in the spring. There is about fifty acres more to be cut over, and also more roads to be built. Respectfully submitted, ORVILLE O. ORDWAY, Chairman. LELAND W. KINGMAN HENRY M. DONEGAN Reading Town Forest Committee. M1 It was voted to confirm the acts of the dndd02dnal.. members since the last meeting. This includes the approval of the purchase of a chain saw and accessories at a cost of 0400.00. The committee reorganized and the following officers ware re- elected: ' George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Chairman Perry reported that Town Accountant Raphael McDonald notified our committee that the balance in our account had been continued from year to year due to improper accounting procedure, and that the balance of the fluids for Fiscal Year 181 were turned back to the General Fund of the Town. A new appropriation of $500,00 for F.Y.182 was approved after the Annual Town Meeting by the Selectmen and the Finance Committee. The fiscal needs for the maintenance of the Town Forest for Fiscal Year 43 were discussed. It was decided to submit a request to the Selectmen for the sum of $500.00 for these requirements. The meeting was adjourned at 5:00 P.M. October 28, 1982 7:30 P.M. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Chairman George B. Perry, 230 Franklin St., Reading, Mass. The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The minutes of the meeting of January 10, 1982 were read and approved. A letter dated October 20, 1982 from E. Roger Lousdis, Superintendent, Board of Public Works, regarding a tentative agreement for use of Town Forest Land at Point Two by the Reading Board of Public Works was read and discussed by the committee members. This land would be used for a well pumping station and meter pit. It was the opinion of the committee members that an agreement such as this should have a time limit, and not be an open ended agreement. Also, a new well pumping station and meter pit with protective fencing should not hinder quick access to the water hole at Point Two, in case of fire. These items will be discussed with E. Roger Louaaie. 0 The need to widen the fire road from Fos Run Lane to the Cranberry Dam due to wider bodies of the current fire trucks was discussed. A qualified workman will be hired to do this work. The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 P.M. February 18, 1982 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE To the Citizens of Reading, We submit our report for the year 1981, and through the current date, Guided tours of the Forest were given by a member of the Committee for several youth groups. Boy Scouts.cont•nued to hike and camp in the Forest throughout the year, and carried out their Good Turns by doing various conservation projects. iioat of the work done in the dorest has been done by volunteers, as the Committee has had no appropriation by Town Meeting since 1973. The balance of the Hinds of the Committee were taken back into the General Funds of the Town, and the Finance Committee and the Selectmen granted a small amount to the Town Forest Committee for FY 182. Your Committee will oontinue to work for the benefit Of all persons in Reading in the continued care and use of the TownForest. Respectfully submitted, TM FOREST COMMITTEE George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E.Diokey,Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary February 15, 1983 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE To the Citizens of Reading, We submit our report for the year 1982, and through the current date. Guided tours of the Forest were given by members of the Committee to the Reading Garden Club, the Appalachian Mountain Club, Cub Scouts and other youth groups. All of these folks have learned about nature, and to respect the woods, which belong to all of us. Year after year the Boy Scouts continue to damp and hike in the Forest throughout the year, and do various conservation projects as part of their Good Turn. The Board of Public Works out add+t'onal mature red pine trees, which will be used as oar bumpers at various Town playgrounds. ' The maintenance and protection of the Town Forest has been continued. Respectfully submitted, TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E.Diokey,Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Early History of the Town Forest Published in the Reading hroaioIs. February 28, 1930 Page 10 Town Warrant published. Art. 29 - -Town Forest Town Meeting to be held March 10, 1930 Idarch U. 1930 Pa'a 1 tree dardan Donegan started d@ dnesday on '.'own Forest. April 11, 1930 Page 1 Ask citizens to aid with new forest. April 18, 1930 Selectmen early volunteers for town forest. April 18, 1930 Page 8 Editorial "Dig Down and Assist." Town forest. April 25, 1930 Page 1 Circle of Pine trees to be planted. April 25, 1930 Page 2 Scout news on Troops 4 and Troop 2 at gown Forest. April 25, 1930 Page 8 Editorial, "Get Busy - -TOVn Forest." ' May 2, 1930 Page 1 and 11 Town Forest Takes Root May 2, 1930 Page 7 Boy Sao ut news about TownForest. May 2, 1930 Page 8 Where Credit is Due. . • 4 May 9, 1930 Pages 1 and 7. Careless Smoker Was Cauee of +Worst Forest Fire in History of Town. Sketch of area of the fire in the Forest. May 9, 1930 Page 1 Work Goes Forward at New TownForest. (See Page 82 -A in this Log Book for additional early history.) February 3, 1984 I ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE To the Citizens of Reading, We submit our report for the year 1983, and through the current date. The Town Forest has been actively used by adult and youth groups for hikes and nature study. A member of the oommittee has led these guided tours, and has taught the responsibility of caring for the Forest . Various Boy Scout troops have camped in the Forest during all seasons of the year. Their Good Turn Slogan has been carried out in their conservation work in the Forest. Your Committee will continue to work for the benefit of all persons in Reading in the care and use of the Forest. Respectfully submitted, TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE George B. Perry, Chairman Irving .6. Dickey, Jr. Vice Chairman Benjamin c. Nichols, Secretary February 11, 1986 ANiXAL Ri j?OAT OF 'TAz TOWN dOR $T 4;0"ITT" To the Citizens of Reading, We submit our report for the year 1984, and through I the current date. Youth groups have used the Town Forest for hikes and nature study. Guided tours of the Forest have been led by members of the Committee 871 February 11, 1985 (continued) Boy Scouts have continued to camp in the Town Forest in all seasons of the year. They have carried out conservation projects to protect the area. Ongoing maintenance and surveillance has been continued. I Respectfully submitted, TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Jr., vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary February 17, 1986 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE To the Citizens of Reading, Ye submit our report for the year 1985, and through the current date. The Department of Public Yorke is in the process of installing a new gravel packed well at the so- called Point Two in the Town Forest. Yhe maintenance and clearing of the Town Forest has been continued under the guidance of members of the Committee.. The Boy Scouts of Reading have carried out various conservation projects during the year, which is their way of contributing something to Reading for the privilege of using the Forest in all seasons of the year. Guided tours of the Forest were given to groups of both young people and adults. The value and beauty of this natural resource is shown. Your Committee will continue to work for the .benefit of all persona in Reading in the continued care and use of the Town Forest. ' Respectfully submitted, George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary . Juiy 1, 1986 7:30 P.M. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Chairman Bedrge B. Perry, 230 Franklin St.:; Reading, Mass. The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey,Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The minutes of the meeting of October 28, 1982 were read ' and approved. The committee reorganized and the following officers were re- elected. George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The balance of the funds appropriated for FY 185 will be released and not encumbered. Chairman George B. Perry will write a letter to the Town Accountant with the request to encumber the balance of the funds appropriated for FY '86. Irving E. Dickey, Jr. will arrange to have an employee of the Tree Department brush out the road into the TownForest from Fos Run Lane. The coat of this work will be charged against the encumbered funds for FY 186. It was moved and voted in the affirmative to confirm the acts of the officers since the last meeting. The meetint, was adjourned at 7:56 P.M. February 28, 1987 ANNUAL REPORT OF TBE TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE To the Citizens of Reading, We submit our report for the year 1986,,and through the current date. The lands and woods were shown on Town Forest Dgy in September to several hundred people, young and old. Several adult groups, along with Boy Soo ute, ' Girl Scouts, Campfire Youth helped with the activities. Many people had never seen this valuable resource, which was started back in 1930. Now they appreciate what our Town Forest means. Boy Scoute have workee on service and conservation projects which have been of great benefit to the Forest. They have camped in the Forest in all seasons of the year. Guided tours of the Forest have been made available for everyone. mil Your committee will continue to work for the benefit of all persons in Reading in the care and use of the Town Forest. Respectfully submitted, George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary August Lb, 1987 8:00 2.14. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Chairman George B. Perry, 230 Franklin Street, Reading, Mass. The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The following visitor was present: Edward G. Smethhrst The minutes of the meeting of July 1, 1986 were read and approved. It was moved and voted in the affirmative to confirm the sots of the officers since the last meeting. It was moved and voted in the affirmative to modernize the "walkie- talkie" owned by the Committee by hiring a professional to change the equipment so that the frequency will operate more efficiently with the Reading Fire Department. The possibility of planting shrubs at Point One in the Forest which would grow to furnish berries and fruit for birds and animals was discussed. Benjamin Nichols will talk with Resting Boy Scout unite to learn if there are Boy Scouts looking for an Eagle Project such as this. The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 P.M. February 1, 1988 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE To the Citizens of Reading, We submint our report for the year of 1987 and through the current date. The forest has been used by many groups of heading people for hikes, nature studies and cross countyy skiing. ME Various Scout groups continue to camp and perform their outdoor activities in the forest is all seasons. One incident of improper ATV operation was investigated and resolved. On -going maintenance will be continued as fonds become available. I In closing the committee wishes to thank Mr. Jack Cairl for his continued support. Respectfully submitted, George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey,Jr., Vice- Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary October 6, 1988 8:00 P.M. A formal poster meeting was held 'at the home of Chairman George B. Perry, 230 Franklin St., Reading,Mass. The following officers were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey',Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary Ing The follow /viaitor was present: Edward G. Smethurst The minutes of the meeting of Auguet 25, 1967 were read and approved. It was moved and voted in the affirmative to confirm the acts of the officers since the last meeting. The committee reorgangaed and the following officers were re- elected: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E; Dickey, Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichole,Secretary A discussion was held regarding the situation of beer parties and the destruoticn of property in various parts ' of the Town roreet. It was moved and voted that Chairman Perri discuss with the Read"g law enforcement agency the possibility of hiring with Town Forest fonds police officers to arrest those individuals causing the troubles, and to impound unauthorized motor vehicles to control this situation as the police determine advisable and legal. The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 P.M. 911 February 1, 1989 ABalri►L HEPORT OF THE TONY FOREST COMMITTEE To the citizens of Reading: We hereby submit our report for 1988 and through the current year. As in past years the Forest has -been used by many groups of people both for structured and unstructured recreation. This year saw a rise in incidences of fires, vandalism and unauthorized use of All Terrain Vehicles. These incidences have been reported to the proper officials for action. The Committee wishes to thank the Public Works, Fire and Police Departments for their continued cooperation and support. Respectfully submitted, George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E.Dickey,Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary March 9, 1989 7:35 PiM. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Chairman George B. Perry, 230 Franklin Street, Reading. The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Diokey, Jr., vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The minutes of the meeting of October 6, 1988 were read and approved. George Perry has talked with the Chief of Police regarding the beer parties and destruction of property in the Town Forest. Rivers Development has made an offer of a gift of approximately 32 acres of land along the Ipswich River which surrounds their property. It was decided that the Town Forest Committee will meet with the developer at his office to inspect the plan of the land included in the potential gift, and also other land of the developer. This will be done prior to the Committee making a recommendation to the Selectmen and Town Meeting. The Department of Public Works has done preliminary work before drilling teat wells on the esker southeast of Scrub Oak Hill, without requesting permission from either the Town Forest Committee or the Conservation Commission. This was similarly done a short distance into the Forest beyond the Pumping Station. George Ilerry will talk with Edward McIntire, who is in charge of operation of the Department of Public Works. The meeting was adjourned at 8:50 P.M. 92 April 4, 1989 7:30 P.M. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Chairman George B. Perry, 230 Franklin St., Reading, Mass, The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The following visitor was present: Edward D. MoIntire,Jr. Assistant Director Dept, of Public Works The minutes of the meeting of March 9, 1989 were read and approved. As reported in the minutes of the last meeting, Rivers Development has made an offer of a gift of 32.9 acres, more of lees, of lend along the Ipswich River. The Town Forest Committee wrote a letter to the Reading Board of Selectmen on March 31, 1989 that stated: "The Town Forest Committee respectfully requests that if the Town Meeting votes to accept the parcel of land being donated in Article 30, that consideration be given to conferring the care and custody of this parcel to the TownForeet Committee by reason of the <dfreot relation to the present TownForeet lands, and that any reasonable access would have to be over present Town Forest toads." Our committee members met with the Rivers Development, and agreed with them that it would be permissible for them to include in their Phase V one ten (10) foot entrance, or perhaps two ten (10) foot entrances,to the Town Forest. Edward D. MQlntire.Jr. explained the problem of the preliminary work for exploratory wells to be done by the Department of Public Works in the Town Forest. It was agreed that the Committee would meet with Mr. McIntire at the new potential well area Friday morning, April 7, 1989 at 7830 P.M. to be shown what the Dept, of Public Works would like to do in the area. The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 P.M. 93 Annual Report of the Town Forest Committee January 31, 1990 To the Citizens of Reading: We submit our report for the year 1990, and through the current date. Again this year many people, both in groups and individuals, made use of the Forest for hikes and nature tours. Guided tours by Committee members were also given. Scout troops have also used the Forest for camp outs and conservation projects. We are at present working with Public Works Department regarding the location of exploratory wells for future use. In closing we wish to thank the Reading Fire, Police and Public Works Departments for their assistance. Respectfully submitted, George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary January 30, 1990 Minutes of the Reading Town Forest Committee Meeting. Meeting convened at 7:30 P.M. at 230 ?ranklin Strest,Reading, by Chairman George Perry. Members present were George Perry, Chairman, Irving Dickey, Jr. Vice Chairman. On the motion of Dickey the reading of the Minutes of the last Meeting were dispensed with. On the motion of Dickey, second by Perry, the same slate of officers was elected by a majority vote. On a motion by Dickey, seconded by Perry, the Committee voted 2 -0 -0 to confirm the acts of its individual members since the last meeting. officers for the year 1990 will be George B. Perry, Chairman, Irving L. Diokey,Jr., Vice Chairman, Benjamin E. Nichols, secretary. Discussion about the method and machine to be used to drill monitoring wells was held, and on the motion of Dickey a letter ' be sent to the Department of Pnblla Norke granting them p3rmission to drill said wells, and that all site work to be monitored by Mr. Dickey. On motion of Dickey seconded by Perry, the majority voted to adjourn the meeting at 7 ":;55 P.M. Respectfully submitted George B. Perry, Chairman z may 12, 1990 Boy Scout -Eagle Project by Life Scout Phil J. Dolan of Troop 702, sponsored by the Old South United Methodist Church. White pine saplings were set in the former compost area which is west of Strout Avenue, Reading, and near Well No. 3. These saplings had grown wild from seed from older trees in the Town Forest, and were dug and transferred to this new site. Those working on this project: ' Philip J. Dolan, Project Coordinator Josh Camuso, Scout Tim Riordan, Sobii Steve Ensminger, Scout Tom Ensminger, Scout Mike Manville, Scout Dave Kiernan, Scout Mike Foodman, Scout George Taylor,Adult Philip T. Dolan, Adult Dick Svirsky,Adult Alex Svirsky, Scout Will Dresser, Scout . Luke Dresser, Scout Mike Conner, Scout Steve Maxwell,Friend April 27, 1989 part of Offer of gift of land as shown as /Lot 1 of Assessors' Plat No. 232, with no date showing. Refer also to Plate 220, 232, and 233 dated 1 -1 -1989. Annual Town Meeting Article 30 On motion of Eugene R. Nigro, as amended by Gail F.Wood, it was voted that the Town accept as a gift from Rivers Development Corp. the following described parcel of land, which land is to be attached to and made a part of the Town Forseb. The land shown on Definitive Subdivision Plane of Sanborn village- -Phase IV shown as Lot "B" consisting of approximately 32.9 eaves of land. The plan of this land is recorded in Southern Middlesex Registry of Deeds as Plan 774 of 1988, an d is recorded in Book 19112 on Page 86. ROTE: As of July 1, 19 &0 this gift has NOT cleared all the ' legal problems and restrictions so that a eigned deed from Rivers Development Corp. and /or John Rivera, as an individual, can be recorded in the Registry of Deeds. ROTE: Refer to 1970 Annual Town Report, Paga354 and 55, Article 26, Lot lm This motion to acquire this same plot of land was not voted in the affirmative, but was indefinitely postponed. Refer to Page 43 of this dog Book under date o March 12, 1970. 94 -A �j it i !, '1 �� '.. .ii �, _ ; Z i • W 21� ;ill I�p";ii , '•. � a \ e`o.< .4 c3 i 1 �� '\• \\ ,i i• J 11:6a 951 July 11, 1990 4 tO<' Refer to Pages 3, 19, 34 snP75,{ of this book for additional information regarding various 1'8ts in the Town !forest. This list below is a continuance of the information on Page 75. Lot No Acreage Document &o Date. 0 46 32 � 48 my See Plan on Page 94A Book Bo. 20649 Page 10. 598 This lot shows on Reading Assessors' Plate No 220, 232 and 233 dated 1 -1 -1969 and is shown as Lot B. This was a gift from John R. Rivera, ea vi 1" and/ _ from his OomDan9, Rivers Development Corp. :�'1 %gift waeT� aooepted by Town Meeting vote on April 27, 1989 under Article 30 of the Adjourned Annual Town Meeting, which included in the motion the amendment said land "is to be attached to and made a part of the Town Forest." This lot is designated as Lot B on a Plan of land entitled "Definitive, Sanborn Village Phase Iv, Plan of land in Reading prepared for Rivers Development Corp.," as Plan Bo. 774 of 1988 and recorded at Book 1911E Pages 86 -91. The Reading Department of Public Works has a tracing of this Plan filed under their No. 300 -L -579. The Reading Dept, of Public Works has a large tracing about 34 inches by 54 inches, that covers the whole area from the Wilmington town line on the West to Main Street and Mill Street in Reading on the East. The southern boundary of the map 1a shown byFrankldn Street, and the Ipswich River is shown on most of the northern boundary. The individual lots of the Town Forest, Well Field and the former Mill Street Pumping Station are delineated onthis plan. The lot numbers on the map agree with the lot numbers in this log book. This map tracing is entitled: Area Map of Lands Situated in the Hundred Acre Meadow--Great Island-- Dividence Swamp to Meadow Reading,Maes. Compiled by Town of Reading- -Board of Public Works -- Engineering Division for Town Forest and Water 6upply Development April 1966 Scale 1 in. - 200 ft. October 23, 1990 8:00 P.M. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Chairman George B. Perry, 230 Franklin Street, Reading,Mass. The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E,Fichola, Secretary The following visitor was present: I Edward G. Smethurst The minutes of the meeting of January 20, 1990 were read and approved. Chairman Perry has been following the activity in the Town Forest by the Public Works Dept, which is working on the problem of the volatile suostances in the water coming from the aquifer at Point Two. It was voted to send a letter to Mr. Jack Rivers and hie Rivers Development Corp. fort!his contribution of 32.9 acres of land along the Ipswich River to the Town of Reading which was to be made a part of the Town Forest. This land was accepted by Town Meeting vote on April 27, 1989, and the deed for same was recorded intheMiddlesex Registry of Deeds in Book 20649 Page $98 on July 11, 1990. A "Beer Bust Party" was held late in September by an unknown group at the Old Council Ring. They left a smoldering fire. Luckily, Chairman Perry was checking the Forest, and saw the fire, and arranged for the Fire Department to extinguish it. Vice Chairman Irving Dickey has agreed to remove this unwanted collection of cane and bottles. This has been a continuing problem over the years. It was voted to confirm the acts of the individual members since the last meeting. On the motion of Benjamin Nichols, seconded by George Perry, the same elate of officers was elected for the eneutng financial year. The officers elected will be: Chairman: George B. Perry Vice Chairman: Irving E. Dickey, Jr. Secretary: Benjamin R.Hichdle The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 P.M. 97 October 17, 1991 7:30 P.M. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Chairman George B. Perry, 230 Franklin Street, Reading. The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The following visitor was present: Edward G. Smethurst. The minutes of the meeting of October 23, 1990 were read and approved. on the..motion of George B. Perry and seconded by Irving F. Dickey, Jr. the same slate of officers wan� elected for the ensuing financial year. The officers elected will be: Chairman. George B. Perry Vice Chairman: Irving E. Dickey, Jr. Secretary Benjamin E. Nichols it was voted to confirm the sots of the individual members since the last meeting. _.. The radio equipment of the Committee has been serviced and modernised. William E. MaoBrien, Registered Land Surveyor, was hired to set a boundary pipe marker in the Tawn Forest at the junction of the Town Forest land with the southwest boundary of MaoMillala property shown on Assessors' Plat 232 Lot`2. Someone has already set a granite bound at the northwest corner of this same lot. The infestation of gypsy moths has not been too serious this year in the Town Forest, although some parts of . Reading have found them troublesome. The meeting was adjourned at 7:55 P.M. October 16, 1992 9:00 A.M. [ A formal pasted meeting was hold at Strout Avenue, Pumping Station property. The following officers were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey,Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary 98 A discussion was held regarding the situation when the gasoline tank truck overturned and ruptured on Route 93 September 30, 1992 just snuth of the Ipswich River and north of Well No. 13, and its possible effect down river on the land of the Town Forest. As of this morning no "gasoline sheen" appeared on the River at Points One and Two. The Reading Ohronicle reported this accident on Sept. 30, 199E and continued with articles and photographs for more than one month. rl Discussion wgs held regarding the "OIA Road to Hundred k Acre Meadow" that goes from Grove Street to what is now H the Reading Town Forest. That "Road is shown on a plan entitled: Meadow Brook Golf Club Reading,Mass. February 1925 ddale 1 in.= 100 Ft. Davis & Abbott Civil engineers, Reaoing,Masa. The property, called the OrdsayPit, which abuts land of the Golf Club, was acquired by the Town from Campanella h Cardi Construction Company as shown by a deed recorded in Book 9776 Page 363 on March E0, 1961, and the Dedication Vote and Plan were recorded in Book 11553 Page 120 Aug. 9, 1968, in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds,SouthDistrict. These items mention the road as "Old Road to Hundred Acre Meadow" or "Old Town or Bridle Way." A tour was made of the "Old Road" to consider if the recent landscaping work by the Golf Club had changed the surface of the road which might be a hindrance for fire trucks to use if a situation might arise when it would be necessary to drive into the Forest and wodded area of theGolf Club. Whan convenient, George Perry will discuss this situation with an official of the Golf Club, so that theClub will realize the ownership and control of this "Old Road." The meeting was adjourned at 10:15 A.M. annual Report submitted for the Annual Town Report: The Town b'orest Committee herein submits its Anual Report for Sue year ending December 31, 1992. As in past years, Mr. Nichols has made himself available for guided tours of the Forest for anyone expresal* a desire to do so, theCommittee wishes to express it's sincere thaaka to Mr. Nichols for his dedicated services. Camping and hature activities were carried out by Scout groppe and other local organizations as well ad individuals. M It is our pleasure again this year to report the the incidences of dire and vandilism has been minimal. At this time there appears to be no apparent impact on the Town Forest because of the accidental spill On Intaratate 93. Yowever, we will continue tomanitor this situation. The Oommittee wishes to thank Uri Jask Cairl for his newspaperartioler describing happenings in the Town Forest. In 'closing theCommittee wishes to thank the Conservation Commiep(lon, Public Works, Fide and Police Departments for their assistance. George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. ildchole,Searetary October lo, 1990 9:00 a.b1. A formal posted meeting was held at the Strout. Avenue Pumping Station property. The followinE members were present: George B.Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dlokey,Jr. Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The minutes of the meeting of October 1E, 199E were read and approved. The regulation requiring that the members of a committee decide if they wish to decline the homknation for the chairmanship of the Town Committee was discussed. Irving E. Dickey,Jr. and Benjamin 1v. Nichols stated they did not wish to be nominated to the position of theCbairman of the Town Forest Committee. on the motion of Benjamin E. Nichols andseoended by Irving E.Dickey, Jr. the same elate of of score was nominated and elected. The officers elected will be: Chairman George B. Perry Vice Chairman Irving E.Dlokey,Jr. Secretary Benjamin E. Nichols It was moved andvoted to confirm the acts of the individual membofs of the Committee since the last meeting. During the last year, vandalism and fires in the Forest have been ate, minimum. 1100 (continued) ltwillbe advisable to brush and clean the roads in the sorest. Consideration should.,be given to continue the thinning of the trees in the Forest similar to that done in 1972. George Perry and Irving Dickey will check the access areas from the property on Sanborn Land and Lilah Lane to the adjoining lands of the Town Forest. The meeting; was adjourned at 10:30 A.M. I March lb, 1994 7:00 P.M. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Chairmen George B.Perry, 230 Franklin Street,Reading. The followi$ members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dlokey,Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The minutes of the meeting of October 12, 1993 were read and approved. It was voted to confirm the acts of the individual members of the Committee since the last meeting. A phone request has been received from Me. Leslie Raley, who lives at 18 Kieran Road, Reading, and is setting plans for her andByron Kill of 18 Kieran Road, Reading, who would like to have their wedding and reception in the Town Forest In late Summer. Irving Dickey has -talked with Town Manager, Peter Reohen bleiker, who explained some of the requirements for a private party to use town owned property. There are certain farms which have to be completed and signed by the Department of Public Works, the Fire Department andthe Police Department. The Town Manager aays there is enough Town Insurance to cover such a gathering. George Perry will talk with Us. Raley and explain some of the requirements and problems if they wish to have the wedding and reception in the Town Forest. Some of these include: No alcoholic beverages on Town property. No pesticiees in Forest, because of nearnest to Town wells. Read house would be needed. Roads in might be rough, and in poor condition. Vandalism sometimes is a problem, which would make setting up arrangements in the Forest difficult on the day before the wedding. Trash would have to be completely removed. Would there be a caterer? Police might be required. soil (continued) It was the consensus of the Committee not to grant permission at this time, but wait until George Perry has talked with Me. Haley, and reports back to the Committee at a later meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 7140 P.M. ' July 11, 1994 7:30 P.M. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Chairman George B; Perry. The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Benjamin B. Nichols, Secretary The following visitor was present: Edward G. Bmethuret The minutes of the meeting of March 12, 1994 were read and approved. George 13. Perry reported he has been reappointed to the Town Fdreat ommittee for a three year term. Under old business, George Perry reported he has talked with Me. Leslie Haley regarding her request to hold her wedding and reception in the Town Forest. He explained the requirements and problems which shewaa to consider, and call bakkto George Perry. As of this date, she has not phoned him. At the Yox dun entrance to the ➢orest, one of the trees holding the restraining cable has rotted, ana tnere is need for a pole to rapla oe the tree. 4e0rge Perry will talk with Irving Dickey about this. The r-riater Department will be digging a new lagoon atthe Pumping Station, and wishes to spread gravel from the hole on some Town Forest roads. The 'Water Dept. requests a letter from our Committee granting this permission. George Perry will ask Edward McIntire for a letter explaining in detail what the 'Hater Department requests. It was voted ton confirm the acts of individual: members ' of the Committee since the last meeting. The meetl4g was adjourned at 7:50 P.M. 102 July 28, 1994 7:30 P.M. A formal postedmeeting was held at the home of Chairman George B. Perry, 230 Franklin Street,Readire . The following:.mambers were present; Geogge B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dlckey,Mr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E; Nichols, Secretary The minutes of the meeting of July 11, 1994 were read ' and approved. It was voted to oonfirm the sots of individual members of the Committee since the last meeting. The regulation requiring the members of committee to decide if they with to decline the nomination for the chairmanship of a Town Committee was discussed. Irving E. Dickey,Jr, and Benjamin E. Nichols stated they did not wish to be nominated to the position of Chairman of the Town Forest Committee. On the motion of Irving E. Dickey, Jr, and seconded by Benjamin E. Nicholsthe same slate of officers was nominated and elected. The officers wl8oted will be: Chairman George B. Perry Vice Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Jr. Secretary Benjamin E. Nichols Under old business: Irving E. Dickey has arranged to have a pole installed at the entrance to the Forest at the Fox Run Lane to replace the rottedtree which held the restraining cable. The Department of Public Works has written our Oommittee requesting permission to dump and spread gravel on Town Forest roads which will be dug from a new lagoon near th4 present lagoons. The Committee discussed, composed and voted to send the following letter to the Department if Public Works. "'Ye give you permission to spread gndvgrade suitable material of road grade gravel o4 Town Forest roads. This gravel must be of sufficient considtenoy to allow passing of vehia &664weighing up to that of fire trucks. Our permission is subject to conditions of the Conservatidn Commission. We would appreciate it if you would let us know when ' work will start." The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 P.M. 1031 June 4, 1995 'i:30 P.M, A FORMAL POSTED LUTING WAS HELD AT THE HOME OF Chairman George d. Parry,. 230 Franklin Street, heading. The following memgera were present. George B. Perry, Chairman Irving R. Dickey, Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The following visitor was present. Michael J. Brenton, 37 Roma Lane, Reading The minutes of the meetln. of July 28, 1994 were read and approved. It was voted to confirm the acts of the individual members of theCommittee since the last meeting. The problem of the encroachment on Town Forest land abutting LOU, Roma Lane was discussed, and the possible means to obtain Mitigation. An agent of the developer and owner has verbally stated he could, and would, have varidus problems resolved, knowing that the Performance Bonds are still being held. It was the consensus that it would be advisable to ask the Town Engineer to check this situation and give us his comments. Mr. Dickey will discuss this with Mr.Joseph Delaney, Town Engineer. In addition to the encroachment, there were other problems to becorreoted. They included: 1. Heavy earth moving equipment had been left for some time on the Forest Land which left leakage of oil. Soil samples should be tested. 2. The Town dorest land should be restored to the original condtion. 3. Trees which were removed, should be replaced with other trees and shrubs selected by the Town Forest Committee. These new trees and shrubs should be guaranteed to be living in good shape for one full year. 4. The pile of tree limbs and shrubs dumped on Town Forest land should be chipped, and spread on the damaged land to a minimum dept of four inches. 5. Surveyed granite markers to be installed on Town Forest ownership line at boundary points of house lots at rear of Roma Lane lots. At present, at some points there are only wooden stakes driven in the ground. These new points are to be checked by Town of Readies . survey men. 104 June 4, 1995 (continued) Replace atone wall, which had been removed, at boundary of land at Roma Lane Extension and the so- called School Site. This west is delineated on Zoning Map Bo. 32 of the Reading Planning Board. It was the consensus of the Committee to write a letter, after receiving the comments of the Town Engineer, to the ' agent of the developer and owner, with copies to the TownManager and the home owner of Lot 6, Roma Lane, with the request that the conditions be corrected not later than November 1, 1996. Consideration should be taken that the folks are living in the new home at Lot 6 even though NO Occupancy Permit has been Segued. The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 P.M. September 25, 1995 7:55 P.M. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Chairman George B. Perry, P30 Franklin Street, Reading. The following members were present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dlokey,Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E.Nichols, Secretary The following visitor was present: Michael J. Brenton, E7 Roma Lane, Reading. The minutes of the meeting of June 4, 1995 were read and approved. The regulation requiring the members of a committee to decide -if they wish to decline the nomination for the Chairmanship of a Town Committee was discussed. Irving E. Dickey,Jr. and Benjamin E. Nichols both stated they did not wish to be nominated to the position of Chairman of the Town Forest Committee. It was moved and voted that the same officers be elected for the ensuing year. These officers will be: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey,Jr., Vice Chairman ' Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary A discussion of the problems regarding the development on Roma Lane abutting the Town Forest se..reported in our meeting of 4une 4, 1995 was continued. It was voted to send a letter to the Community Planning and Development Commission with our concerns with the suggestion that they could be resolved by either the developer, or by the Town of Reading after Town Mestiv, votes to take the bond.This letter would be signed by our officers. 1051 (Sep. 25, 1995 Continued) Irving Dickey reported that he, Benjamin Nichols and Kenneth Latham,Jr., a member of the Reading Rotary Clab, will tour the Town Forest and lay out short and long arose country ski trails. The members of the Rotary Club will install suitable directional signs, and clear the trails where necessary, under the supervision of Irving Dickey. The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 P.M. Marchll8, 1996 7:00 P.Y. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of the Chairman at 230 Franklin Street, Reading, Mass. Members present: George B.Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dlckey,:Jr.,Vice Chairman Irving Dickey reported that Ken Latham, Jr. and the Rotary Club has remarked and expanded the Cross Country Trails in the Town Forest. The minutes ofthe previous meeting were not read as Secretary Benjamin Nichols was not present. The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 P.M. April 8, 1997 A formal posted meeting was held at the home of the Secretary at 25 Avon Street, Reading, Mass. Members present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. 'Dlckey,Jr., Vies Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The minutes of the meetings of September 25, 1995 and of March 18, 1996 were read and approved. It was voted to confirm the telephone vote of members in favor of accepting the gift of land off Lynn Village Way to add to the 'Town uorest. 2reviously the committee members had sent a letter to the Town Manager on January 2,1, 1997 ' which stated: "As members we agree it would be advisable for the Town to- taocept this significant piece of land to add to the Town Forest. The location, and approximate area of this offer is delineated in "RED" on the attached map of "READING TOWN FOREST AND WELLFIELDS." Various reports are coming in that the deer herds are expending in the Town Forest. The meeting was.iadjourned t 8:00 P.M. 106 June 9, 1997 7:00 P.M. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of the Seoretary at 25 Avon Street, Reading,Mass. Members present: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey,Jr. Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The minutes of the meeting of April 8, 1997 were read and approved. The Sunset Rook Development off Franklin Street, on property formerly owned by Henry Fienemann, was discussed. It was voted that we would go to the formal hearing before the Community Planning and Levelopment Commission, andLexplain to them that we do not want an active opining to the Town Forest, tnat we do require a suitable available entrance available for use by the Fire Department, and that there be a fire.hydrant close to the entrance. The acquisition of the gift of land by Presidential Development Corp, mentioned in our previous meeting report was voted at the Annual Town Meeting under Article 24 bn April 28, 1997. After all the details have been handled, Town Counsel will draw, have signed and record a deed covering this lot containing 2.31 acres. Cn the Reading Community Day with aodivities all over Town, George Perry shared the Town Forest to visitors. A recent storm hue brought down some trees across roads in the Town Forest. Irving Dickey hue arranged to have these removed and the roads cleared. The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 P.M. December 31, 1997 Refer to Pages 3, 19, 34, 75 and 95 in this book for additional information regarding various lots in the Town Forest. This list below is a continuance of the inform tion on Page 95. Lot No. Acres a Document No. Date z7- 2.3 Dec. 31, 1997 See Plan on Page 106A Book No. Page No. Lo A 28035 154 ' Lot A was a gift from Presidential Development Corp., and was accepted by a vote at the Annual Town Meeting under Article 24 on April 28, 1997. �$4 p Mail iR r. f>v �fv�9E fill, R� g$Hdi • it �1 pPe [epAg E ii RRl{{ � D � �Rf' ik : {ii II R�I �.:• -� 3 •8ti .ty :; ik� cs ell '10414S °?fie It gI;9 ; o RR €= Rit B e 3� »vcw � y.�l �•� a 1071 June 25, 1998 7:35 P.M. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of the Secretary ,at 25 Avon Street, Reading, Maas. Members present: George B. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E.Niohols, Secretary ' Visitor present: Edward G. Smethurst The minutes of the meeting of June 9, 1997 were .mead and approved. on a motion, seconded and voted in the affirmative, the sets of the'Andividual members since the last meeting were confirmed. It was moved, seconded and voted that the same officers be elected for the ensuimg year. These-officers will be: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E: Dlokey,Jr. Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary There was a woods fire in August 1997 in theTown Forest on the hill just beyond the location of the former Big Pine sign on the opposite side of the road, that consumed about three acres. In order to prevent the spread of fires in the woods when they occur, Boy Scouts have continued to remove the brush and lower =llmbe of the trees throughout the Forest. Local Boy Scout units have spent thirty days and nights camping in the Forest. They have learned much about nature and how to protect the area for future generations. The landoof the 2own Forest and the Watershed are both involved as a source Chairman needed by the Town. Recently, meeting for a discussion about the source of potential favorable sites for groundwater development in fractured bedrock aquifers. There will be a long term study. The..,mesting was adjourned at 8:05 P.M. December 22, 1998 7:00 P.M. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Secretary Benjamin Nichols at E5 Avon Street, Reading, Mass. Members present: George B. Perry, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary The minutes of the meeting of June Li, 1998 were read and approved. o• (Continued) It was moved and voted in the affirmative to confirm the acts of the individual members since the last meeting. The members of the Committee met with Boy Scout James Biggs of Troop 706 to hear abouthis proposed Ragle Project to construct a plank walkway on top of large pine logd oroasway in the wet area between the Bancroft Island and the Old Council Ring. The Committee gave Scout James ' Biggs permission to carry out this project. The Community and Development Commission held a hearing on May 91 1998 regarding the Sunset Rook Development which will abort the Town Forest and a potential school site. Your Committee understood that the C,P.D.O. knew and agreed there would be a forty foot entrance to the Town Forest from the new development. Later the school plane showed a 29 foot easement to the school and only 11 feet in an entrance to the Town Forest. Your Committee believed a letter should be written to the Selectmen explaining our thoughts about the width of an entrance for a fire truck to the Forest for safety reasons. (This letter was written January 10, 1999) The Reading Recreation Committee held a race progra4 in the Town Forest, including the longer 2.6 mile race for the adylts which went through the Ordway Pit Lot. This was held on October 9, 1998 with aboid 60 to 80 of various ages taking part. During Thanksgiving time, Boy Scout Troop 702 held its Annual Turkey Roast 'Weekend Campout. Troop 706 had a cookout for Scouts, their families and friends. Over 200 individuals enjoyed this activity in the Forest. Chairman George Perry gave a report of the meetibg with the Water Advisory Committee about the stuffy of the Potential Bedrock Well Sites, which may involve land in the Town Forest. (Our aommenta were included in our letter to the Selectmen of January 14, 1999) blichael Brenton, Z7 Roma Lane, use told us he would like to be considered as an Associate Member of the Town Forest Committee. His home abuts the Forest, and he and his family like the area of their home and they roam the woods. Chairman George Perry will discuss with the Selectmen if our Committee may have an Associate Member. The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 P.M. ' August 4, 1999 7:46 P.M. A formal posted meeting was held at the home of Secretary Benjamin Nichols at 25 Avon Street, Readinf,Mass. Members present: George B. Perry, Chairman Benjamin B. Nichols, Secretary 1091 (Continued) Visitors present: Edward G. Smethurst, 86 Gleason Road, Reading Robert A. Brown, 37 Susan Drive, Reading The minutes of the meeting of December 22, 1998 were read and approved. It was moved, seconded and voted in the affirmative to confirm the acts of the individual members since the last meeting. It was moved, and seconded, that the same officers be elected for the coming year. These officers will be: George B. Perry, Chairman Irving E. Dickey, Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary George Perry reported on the Scout activities during the last year. Harch 1998 Troop 702 May 1996 Pack 728, Paok 733, Pack 735 June 1998 Paok 728 august Vroop 702 October 1998 Pack U4, tack 765 November 1998 Troop 702 Annual Turkey Roast Weekend Campout George Perry reported on construction work by three separate Boy Scout groups. Ryan Haley, Troop 705, Removed lower limbo from Pine trees on Scrub Oak Rill to prevent potential spread of fire. James Biggs, 'Troop 705, Built a walkway lengthwise on large pine loge laid crossway for a distance of about 400 feet between the Bancroft Island and the Old Council Ring. Prior to this great project, walking here during the wet seasons was mighty difficulty due to the mud. Joseph Mc Grane, Troop 705, Built a solid bridge over the brook at the Cranberry Dam in the area off Fos Run Lane. These last two projects give an access from one side of the Forest to the other. Your Committee has received favorable comments about this. George.Perry has been a member of the Ad Hoc Water Supply Advisory Committee and reported on the potential future moves where they might affect locations in the Town Forest. 110 (Continued) The possibility of having Associate Members on the Towm Sorest Committee was discussed and what functions the would handle The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 P.M. NOTE: THE FIRST ENTRY IN THIS LOG BOOK IS DATED DEC. E1 1964. I AND 0 ON The following item is copied from the Log Book of Troop 2 (Now 702) at Town Forest. October 12, 1963 (Columbus Day) Tree planting day in the Ordway Pit section of the Town Forest. One hundred and ten Scouts and twenty Soouters from the Yowder Keg District planted 1,000 red pine. There were ten units represented. There were so many scouts working it oaly took one and one -half hours to complete the the job. it was under the direction of Edmond Collins, and District Scout Executive Everard Grain. Troop Scouts working: Dave Harlow, Rich Harlow, Steve Carter, Stan Bales, Chris Bales, Steve Knox, Rick Smith, Pete Syer, Don Gagnon, Lee Laland, Steve Woerz, and Bruce Hakanson. Soouters working: Bill Harlow, Ben Nichols, Dave Gagnon and Fred•-Mosae. Here is another item from Troop 2 (Now 702) Boy Scout Log Book of the Town forest. May 14, 16, 16, 1976 The Town Forest has been used by Troop 70z(formerly 'Troop k) over.the years since last reported in this log book on September 21, 1968. Troop 702 camped on their Troop area on Scrub Oak Hill for the weekend. The boys hiked in the Old Town Road from Grove Street, but the heavy equipment was brought in by the leaders in oars and vane. Seventeen Scouts and their leaders camped out. Sattrday afternoon red pine and sootch pine saplings, purchased by the Town Forest Committee were planted on Scrub Oak Hill opposite the Troop 702 area, in plates where previous plantings had not survived, 1111 (continued) Scoutat,samping: Eagle Patrol Ken Thompson Barry Saunders Kevin Ballou Bob Till Phil Rittenburg Tarantula Patrol: Craig Quimby Dave Boucher Bill Thompson Keith Klepaia Tony Palmer Friday evening older Leon LaFreniere Dan Driscoll Steve Cogger Adults at Campout: Fred Neumann George Perry Bill Davie Ben Nichols Jim Klepeis Cobra Patrol: Kurt Mabel John Klepeie Mark Tewksbury Bill Hughes Leadership Corp: Jay Perry Dave Cogger scouts hiked in to camp. RETURN TO TOWN FOREST LOG BOOK. Red pine and scotch pinesaplings mentioned almost at bottom of Page 110 must have been the saplings written about on Page 69 which was part of a Committee Report which started on Page 68, where it states: The saplings voted in the last meeting have been ordered, but the actual order new covsrin&SOuIIorway Red Pine and 260 Spanish Scotah Pine, as the supplier does not have any hemlock available. The following items are - copied from the Log Book of Troop 2 (Now 708) at Town Forest. Ma 7 1960 rye plan ing Day. Maurice Donegan, Reading Tree Warden and member of Town Forest Committee, brought�,RedPine trees to be planted. Pie showed the oorrst way to plant these trees. They were set out six feet apart in rows which were also six feet apart. Our Troop 102 set rows on both eidee of our lot. Mr. Donegan said Troop 702 planted about 300 trees. After lunch, and after the trees were planted, we went for a swim in the Ipswich River. Eater, everyone practised lashings on the signal tower which will bw ereatedaat the June Camporee. 112 (Continued) (may 7. 1960) Those present inclued: Bob laakela, Ricky bugler, Jack :filler, Jeff Alter, Bob Groves, Ray Pinkham, !!at Dooley, Dave Harlow, Kirby Greene, Charley Perry, John Webster, and Don Graham. The leaders present were Bill Harlow, and Ben Nichols. Water for the trees came from the well Troop 706 set and Troop 707 set out about 200 t K lei 1960 P and ted moot twenty red pine on willow from outtinge from tree o aroundLake George area. Present Dave Harlow, -bill Aarlow and Ben out about 1G0 trees rase. ' upper area, and seven n John Street (Willow Road) were Cliffuliea, Nichols. RETURN TO TOWS FOREST LOG BOOK T TS'IS ^:Ar8Y OF :AI 4T5L REPORT JASTTARY #31, 2o07 RRADING AY L. JANUARY 28, 1971 A d � � —and taken to the�I*Ital. the" A 16 yearold.Readingg-boy _ was-son ng -_ o ew _Engiana — seriously Injured in a tobogganing Memorial Hospital folio the Town., Forest, Committeemen within accident at the old Ordway gravel '.accident., in. wblct;Ti was James Perry and Henj%min " eaamini _ pit An 1n the,-Town Forest, _last _catapulted Into the tillrJ(rQitt a holy said the pits are extremely showed Saturday, and the incident has -led toboggamori a near• -. ., it slope; dangerous and are posted a ainst - •were d officials to warn the pits are posted "-of the gravel pit. I- trespassers. loose gravel,: nks 'ithrough and dangerous: He wasatowed f -dM thepit on the and piles of rock eonstitu ` the forested Peter Simone, 19. Tennyson Ad., toboggan by,two.cbmpanItO& aleff danger in the pit, they said.. + trees. , E sustainedcr•u shed- vertabraeandis -- Keith ,J5rand�a`vid- Mlt&,eil,44,_- PerdyLndNicholsalsoct'iatited Both-_! Owl the tfon of - somme- skimobilea ncowuft� of th , �+o WIthln the -X Wa =. Forest<.An. by the skimobile vperatora, but examination_ over the weekend urged operators to• atar on'roads showed some skimobile-opgrators there, • .JDr, - Arno!' Luger C eds were- dsivin"efr- tnachines °0perstor icin : saplings — *through newly planted and te- throes the enovJ corer. 4;d forested areas, destroying young The Forest Committee ls;makfr4 - trees. ;. efforts this,:wee tojprLtt ; aigru ! ' [•l tT1iTltr�UOmnn es� .�� . warnings 'obiltiF opei ators away ffYXlf- f1)J,ntinw..�..�w_.�_, . > \so \ ) ~ 3 ! ® y ® m \ / ± Thnrsday. Aueust 11th - At BP.M., Eleanor Bishop and Miriam Barclay will present their popular slide program entiEled "Reading Buildings :Recycled and Moved. You may find that your neighbor's house was once a school or shoe shop. b r 5th - Mrs. Barclay will offer a walking Tour of Old laurel Hill Cemet ery. ha tour will focus on many of Reading's early residents and the various sta¢es of gravestone art. The tour begins at 2P_M, at the Parker Tavern. On September 13th Herb will be the theme of a special presented by Trim Dolben. s. n will e i it many examples of herbs and offer her advice on their cultivation and uses. October 16th - The last special of the season will feature an informal Stenciling demonstration. The craft of stenciling is enjoying a revival and many of its decora- tive uses will be exhibited. * ** **The Executive Board recently voted to keep R.A.S. dues at their present level. However, as dues are a valuable source of income for the maintenance of the Parker Tavern, we encourage you to have a friend or relative join the Society. • *+ **The Society is pleased to welcome Jo Ann Connolly to the Executive Board. * * ** *The Fall - Winner schedule is presently being planned. If you have any suggestions or ideas they would be most welcome. * * * * *Ow thanks to Mrs. Rillam and Mrs. Hulsman for Providing refreshments at the February meeting. Saplings planted in Town Forest May 7, 1960 P -111 Scrub Oak Hill May 15, ltj¢v P -112 blsadn's Pond at Scrub Oak Hill 10 -12 -1963 2-110 Southwest Ordway Pit 5 -14 -1966 2-7, P -8 Northwest Ordway Pit 4 -27 -1968 P -27, 28, 29 Hill at Ordway Pit May 1970 P -45 500 Spruce on desterly aide Scrub Oak Hill ualance on aasterly aide. ;,lay 8, 1971 P -50 Ordway Zit and Scrub Oak Hill 5 -12 -1990 P -94 Compost Lot West of Strout Avenue 5 -14, 15, 16 1976 P -110 Scrub Oak Hill West aide 5 -10 -1959 P -38 East side Ordway ?it ,lest side Scrub Oak Hill 5 -24 -1969 P -38 West side Scrub Oak Hill