Conservation Commission

Overview

The Hingham Conservation Commission is a seven-member board appointed to three-year overlapping terms by the Select Board. The Commission works closely with the Conservation Department staff to oversee the protection of wetlands, waterbodies, waterways, floodplains, buffer zones, and riverfront areas, and to acquire and maintain conservation property for the protection of natural resources and enjoyment of the residents of Hingham.

The Commission also takes an active role in advising other Town boards and committees on conservation matters. The Commission has a representative on the Climate Action Planning Committee, Community Preservation Committee, Comprehensive Trails Plan Committee, Master Plan Committee, Open Space Acquisition Committee, and Turkey Hill Management Committee.

Responsibilities

Empowered to administer the state’s Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) and Rivers Protection Act (St. 1996, c. 258), and the Hingham Wetlands Protection By-Law, the Commission reviews applications for projects within floodplains, within 100 feet of wetlands, waterbodies, and intermittent streams, and within 200 feet of perennial streams and rivers. The Commission and its staff hold public meetings, issue permits for work, inspect the work in progress, and upon completion of the work, conduct final inspections and in some cases, issue Certificates of Compliance. The Commission may also issue Enforcement Orders if unpermitted activities are identified and unable to be resolved through more amicable means.

Under the Conservation Commission Act (M.G.L. Chapter 40, Section 8C), the Commission works with its staff and the Open Space Acquisition Committee to plan for natural resource protection, acquire important parcels as funding allows, and manage its properties for conservation and passive recreation purposes, often with the help of caretakers and volunteers. In addition, the Commission and its staff assist with writing, revising, and implementing important planning documents related to the Town’s open space. Additional information on the Commission’s conservation properties and associated planning documents can be found here.

Agendas & Minutes

Agendas are available prior to the meetings. Minutes are available following approval by the Commission. Meetings are held on Monday evenings at 7:00 PM. Please see the Meeting Schedule for specific meeting dates, times, locations, and filing deadlines.

View Most Recent Agendas and Minutes | View Minutes 2011 and Older