Notes from the Agriculture and Forestry Commission (AFC), December 6, Hybrid meeting

Present:

November 1, 2021 minutes approved with correction. (Seedlings are not free but are low cost)
Chair introduced Julie Coop from Tree City USA, Mass Department of Conservation and Recreation, to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of applying for the designation as a Tree City.
1. Chair moved to apply for the designation
2. Rasmussen was opposed until Commission does some digging and determines cost/benefit; that is, in what ways does Stockbridge benefit versus how much work entailed to apply annually
3. Rasmussen's motion carried: will investigate first
Chair introduced Jordan Archey from Berkshire Grown to discuss feasibility of having a Stockbridge Farmer's Market
1. Location, parking, day of week, and intended clientele are key ingredients for success
2. For example: Saturday or Sunday may attract fewer locals and more visitors; accepting SNAP payments and/or Senior coupons may attract more locals
3. Who would run the Market? Chamber? Town? Private entity? The Farmers?
4. Since there are other Farmer's Markets in many other towns, what would attract farmers to Stockbridge?
5. How much might start-up costs be? (est. $5 – 10,000)
6. Further discussion with Select Board
Bozzuto mentioned that there should be an Old Growth Forest Designation Ceremony or "do it silently". Cardillo preferred a ceremony in spring. When AFC meets with Select Board to discuss Farmer's Market also set date for dedication ceremony

Meeting adjourned.

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Sheep visiting Main Street. Photo: Patrick White