Barnstable Conservation Commission Backs First West Barnstable Forest Plan Update in 34 Years

BARNSTABLE — July 14, 2026 — Barnstable Conservation Commission unanimously backs new forest management plan for West Barnstable Conservation Area. Conservation Agents Brady Hill and Rob Brewer told the commission Tuesday that the property's management plan has not been updated since 1992 and faces six compounding threats: the advancing southern pine beetle, loss of early successional habitat, wildfire risk from six years without prescribed burns, minimal wetland coverage, invasive species pressure, and fragmented habitat connectivity. Chair Tom Tangney noted the Hamlin Fund may need to supplement grant funding, and Member John Abdeili urged staff to seek a Town Council presentation, saying "their support would be critical — they may be a source of funds." Staff have already submitted a cost-share application to the state and consulted with the Ruffed Grouse Society and National Wild Turkey Federation. In separate action, the commission approved a 3-2 revised plan for a Bayview Road rebuild, unanimously approved a revised North Bay plan after relocating a proposed beach shed outside the 50-foot buffer, issued two unanimous enforcement orders including one against a Cotuit property owner who topped coastal bank trees for the second time, and continued a Hyannis carriage house rebuild amendment to July 21 pending review of architectural drawings.