Mass Audubon, a non-profit dedicated to protecting nature in Massachusetts, sent a letter to the Board of Selectmen officially opposing the proposed Hospitality, Recreation, and Entertainment District up for vote at Saturday’s Town Meeting.

The letter notes that Red Brook is home to one of the only remaining sea-run Brook Trout populations in the state, and that the district is vital to the town’s water source.

The organization says that more intensive development could impact water quality, stream flows, and habitats.

The complete text of the letter follows:

Dear Chairman Teitelbaum, and Members of the Board of Selectmen: 

Several organizations and individuals have communicated to Mass Audubon regarding concerns about the  proposed zoning amendment that will be considered at the Special Town Meeting on Saturday, April 10,  2021. We have reviewed this information, and feel that it merits close attention. The Red Brook and its  watershed, flowing into Buttermilk Bay, contain important surface and groundwater resources and natural  habitats, and there have been extensive investments by public agencies and private organizations in  protecting and restoring these lands and waters. Red Brook supports one of the few remaining sea-run  Brook Trout populations in the Commonwealth. The area is also important for protection of wells  supplying the Town with water. Concerns associated with more intensive development and impervious  surfaces include potential impacts on water quality, stream flows, and habitat. 

Mass Audubon values the past conservation collaborations with the Town of Wareham and is committed  to our ongoing work with you and other community leaders and the public to support planning for a  sustainable and resilient future, including harmonizing economic development and conservation goals.  Many municipalities are finding that conserving and restoring their land and water resources has fiscal benefits – increasing property values, reducing infrastructure costs and burdens, and attracting eco tourism and businesses. We offer our support to advance Wareham’s efforts to plan for a future that is  sustainable and beneficial in all respects – economically, environmentally, and for the quality of life of  local residents. 

Regards, 

Heidi Ricci 

Director of Policy