The Sandisfield Open Spaces QR code.

---

Last month an expanded Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) committee reviewed Sandisfield's demographic and development patterns using maps and data about soils, water resources and plant ecosystems within Town limits. Much of the open space in Sandisfield is unsuitable for development due to ecological, topographical, or hazards limitations.

However, opportunities exist to upgrade and/or develop available public recreational facilities and locations.

With this in mind, the committee discussed strategies such as potential partnerships with existing organizations like the Farmington River Watershed Association, the State Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Army Corps of Engineers, or local recreational clubs including the Hanging Mountain Climbers Association, the Sandisfield Snowmobile Club, Knox Trail Sno-Riders Snowmobile Club, and the American Legion facilities in New Boston.

Discussions turned to the most available opportunities in the short-term, including improving the town playground at the library, river access, and many possible activities at Yanner Park.

Yanner Park consists of 275 open acres donated by the Yanner family to the Town in 1995 fir the purpose of "recreation." A master plan was completed in 1996, and committees ever since have been planning and working on various aspects of the park, including integration of hiking trails and public access and parking. Unfortunately, the gift of the land did not come with designated funds which has slowed implementation of recreational opportunities and facilities there. The OSRP project is the first and best opportunity to turn ideas about Yanner Park into reality because with a Plan in place, the Town will be able to apply for grant funding that it was not previously eligible for. The hope is that this Plan will be a turning point for the future of Yanner Park.

There is still time for residents, landowners, second homeowners, visitors, and neighbors to voice opinions about outdoor recreation here on the OSRP Chris Maccarini, PMP Owner 617-816-6152 info@crmhomewatch.com crmhomewatch.com PO Box 791 Becket, MA 01223 Residential & Commercial Homes - Buildings - Property LICENSED BONDED INSURED survey. More than 100 responses have been received to date. The online Survey, which takes only a few minutes to complete, closes on October 15. Every response is valued and all suggestions will be given serious consideration. To participate, please scan the QR code above or visit www.surveymonkey. com/r/SNDOSRP. There will be a community meeting later this fall to share the results.

In October, the committee will continue to discuss preservation needs as well as review climate change data. Climate change data will help inform decision-making, recognize hazards to mitigate, and identify impacts it will have on the town's open space land.

Community feedback will be crucial during the upcoming process. Anyone interested in learning more or sharing feedback is encouraged to share their thoughts with the committee by attending the monthly meetings. The next committee meeting is October 21 at 6:00 p.m. at Town Hall.