Commission delays Freeman Lake vote 30 days
The Chelmsford Conservation Commission heard dueling evidence over a possible Freeman Lake pickerel weed die-off and put the issue off for 30 days.
Conservation · Meeting of July 28, 2026
CHELMSFORD — The Chelmsford Conservation Commission heard dueling evidence over a possible Freeman Lake pickerel weed die-off and put the issue off for 30 days. Residents Wanda Dunn and Allan Beede presented photos alleging the native plant died after a diquat herbicide treatment, while contractor Water and Wetland's James Lecasse insisted "there is absolutely no way that our treatment would affect a plant that's out of water." Conservation Agent David Koonce said no funding exists for an independent study and the commission took no formal vote on the issue. Separately, the board voted 5-0 three times to continue unfinished hearings, including Notices of Intent for 21 and 23 Seventh Avenue to August 25, for 9 Lady Slipper Lane to August 11, and for New England Power Company's transmission-line project to August 11.
Chair Chris Garrahan said, "I think we're fortunate to have residents that keep an eye on it and help us."
In the full story:
- Who Was There
- Organizations And Documents Referenced
- The complete report — 2,401 words
Source: the Conservation meeting of July 28, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.
Members read the rest of this story and every Chelmsford meeting we cover, in full.
Become a memberAlready a member? Sign inA 30-day free trial needs a payment method. After it, your membership renews at the price shown at checkout until you cancel, which you can do anytime from your account. Subscription terms
Share this story
Know someone in Chelmsford who follows town government? Share Townbrief Chelmsford: they can sign up free.