Bridgewater Conservation Approves Three Filings, Pledges Wetland Bylaw Push

Conservation · Meeting of January 8, 2026

Bridgewater Conservation Commission approved three wetland filings and two certificates of compliance at its January 8 meeting, while calling for urgent action on overdue local wetland bylaws. Chair Marilyn McDonald led the 4-0 votes issuing negative determinations for tree removal at 343 Cherry Street and an accessory dwelling unit at 170 Boxwood Lane, and a 3-0 vote approving an order of conditions for a septic repair at 48 Consetta Drive. The commission also approved a minor modification and certificate of compliance for 674 Summer Street after discovering an above-ground pool and retaining wall had been relocated without prior approval, with members noting the wall now physically marks the 25-foot no-disturbance buffer.

Community and Economic Development Director Robert Rooley, serving as interim staff following the departure of Conservation Agent Caitlin Putz, committed to consulting the town manager before the January 22 meeting on how to proceed with a long-delayed local wetland bylaw update, including possible stronger protections for the town's Area of Critical Environmental Concern.

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Source: the Conservation meeting of January 8, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.