Ridgefield Conservators Approve Funding for Meadow, Pauses Pound Street Project

RIDGEFIELD, CT — The Conservation Commission on April 13 unanimously approved funding for habitat improvements at McKeon Farm and agreed to pause further development of a proposed parking area at Pound Street due to cost and regulatory concerns.

Commissioners voted unanimously to allocate $1,500 toward establishing a native wildflower meadow at McKeon Farm, including site preparation and seed purchases.

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The project will cover approximately 4,000 square feet near an existing pollinator garden. Members discussed sourcing native seeds locally and potentially delaying planting until fall for optimal growing conditions.

Pound Street Project Put on Hold

The commission also agreed to pause plans for a parking area and trail improvements at Pound Street after reviewing estimated costs and permitting requirements.

Chairman Erik Keller said the project would require a survey and engineering plan costing about $8,000, as well as additional landscaping expenses that could bring the total to roughly $11,000. Because the site is within 100 feet of wetlands, it would also require approval from the Inland Wetlands Board.

Commissioners agreed to hold off on further development for now, citing costs and potential complications. Keller said the town will instead install open space signage and coordinate with residents on invasive plant removal.

Land Donation Moves Forward

Commission members expressed support for accepting a proposed one-acre land donation on Limestone Road adjacent to Taylors Pond, pending standard requirements.

Keller said the property owner has agreed to cover the cost of surveys, and commissioners indicated the donation appears straightforward, with no anticipated planning and zoning issues.

Additional Funding Approved

The commission also voted unanimously to allocate $500 for tickets to an upcoming Audubon Connecticut fundraiser, where Commissioner Roberta Barbieri will be recognized with a leadership award.

Other Updates

• Commissioners discussed a forestry grant application for the Florida Refuge, where a service forester will develop a management plan focused on tree regeneration. The grant application is expected to open in June.
• Maintenance work is ongoing at Wittman Preserve and McKeon Farm, including mowing, rock wall repairs, and plans for haying and fencing improvements.
• A previously proposed helipad project in neighboring Lewisboro, N.Y., was withdrawn following public opposition.
• The commission received a $4,700 grant from the Ridgefield Thrift Shop to support bird feeding and habitat construction projects.
• Officials reported that the town expects to receive $25,000 in compensation related to a tree-cutting violation on Old Sib Road.
• The commission is monitoring a potential wetlands-related issue at 24 Whitlock Road, where a shed and lawn may encroach on town open space.

The commission also approved minutes from its March 23 meeting, with one member abstaining.

The meeting adjourned at 8:39 p.m.