Environmental Commission

Madison Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes November 16, 2017 1. Call to order by Chairperson Stephan Stocker at 7:35. 2. Announcement of meeting notice Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act: Read by Stephan Stocker, Chairperson. This meeting of the Madison Environmental Commission complies with the Open Public Meetings Act. (P.L. 1975 c. 231) Notice of this meeting was provided to the Madison Eagle, Daily Record, Star Ledger, and to tapintomadison.com. Copies of this notice are posted on the bulletin board at the main entrance of Hartley Dodge Memorial and were made available to the general public. 3. Present: Stephan Stocker, Trina Malik, Claire Whitcomb, Ellen Kranefuss 4. Absent: Carmela Vitale, Brian Monaghan 5. Communications: None 6. Guests: Joan Maccari 7. Continuing Business: Stephen reported there is $3,060 in available funds. A large portion of the money is used for water testing at the MRC; some discussion was had regarding less expensive testing that could still ensure high validity and reliability. Stephen also reported that 1,100 lbs. of food was distributed to the food pantry this year. And, in November, water ambassadors planted 150 plants (purchased through grant money) at the restoration area behind the Madison Recreation Complex. Work continues on managing and/or eliminating invasive plant growth. Trina shared the success of the November Eco Soiree as it met its objectives of gathering community in a different, more relaxed social format. Approximately 60 people attended including members of other towns’ environmental contingents. The Solar Task Force has met to consider broad strategy as well as specific logistics. Gathering data on how other towns have successfully implemented solar is a next immediate goal. There was also discussion about the town considering building a new electric generator, possibly using diesel fuel. As such, the solar task force will be convened again shortly to discuss being part of this dialogue. Claire continues follow up with a Trash Task Force volunteer interested in greening town sports events, as well as some Drew students who have expressed interest in composting work. Discussion was also had about making use of compost material generated at the schools; some limitations were noted as it is derived from animal as well as plant materials. Ellen reported developments in planning for the first town swap, tentatively set for a Saturday in April of 2018. The DPW is a full partner on this project and is providing the host space for the swap as well as in kind resources for planning. Operational details including lists of acceptable items, donation of unwanted items, volunteers needed and promotion of the event are being drafted. Ellen provided updates on developing a pollinator garden and/or native plant display at the Madison Library. There are some library considerations including whether bees could be an issue for library patrons, and maintenance of any plantings including pesticide use. Given the existing pollinator gardens around Madison, the library focus could perhaps move to a native plant display. Discussion will continue. Claire proposed a milkweed drive for the spring. Joan Maccari has expertise and is willing to germinate and cultivate milkweed during the winter so there is supply available in the spring. 8. New Business: Stephen proposed MEC meeting dates for 2018 to identify potential date conflicts or timing concerns. An increased number of events/educational offerings to raise awareness and engage volunteers is identified as an important goal going forward. A student intern for the month of January may be available to assist with assorted projects such as developing a way to connect fledgling environmentalists who are looking for work and/or volunteer opportunities in the field and/or organizing some green business initiatives in Madison.