Conservation

The Conservation Commission is the official agency specifically charged with the protection of Brockton's Natural Resources. The Commission also advises other municipal officials and boards on conservation issues that relate to their areas of responsibility. The first powers given to the Commission (ref Conservation Commission Act of 1957 - MGL Ch.40 sec. 8C) focused on "promotion and development of natural resources…and protection of watershed resources". In 1972 Conservation Commissions were authorized to administer the State Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Ch 131 sec. 40), the first act of its kind in the nation. Additionally, the Conservation Commission is charged with administering the town's Wetland Protection By-law (codebook chapter 181). (Approximately 40% of the communities in the Commonwealth have enacted some form of local wetland protection by-law.)

It is important to note that in July 1991 the Office of the City Planner assumed full responsibility of the Conservation Commission's day to day operation and is now responsible for the implementation of the Wetlands Protection Act, MGL 131, in Brockton. Activities include, but are not limited to: Review of Notice of Intent applications and review of Certificate of Compliance requests to ensure compliance with the Order of Conditions.

Conservation Commission Meetings Page