Brimfield Conservation Commission

Mission Statement

The Brimfield Conservation Commission (BCC) administers the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) and associated regulations (310 CMR 10.00).  The BCC reviews all septic system projects, all building permit applications, and performs site plan review for the Planning and Zoning Boards. The BCC also reviews commercial Forest Cutting Plans, and any project proposed within areas of protected rare and endangered species and/or priority habitat governed by the National Heritage Endangered Species Program (NHESP), a division of the Massachusetts Fisheries & Wildlife.

Accordingly, any proposed activity that may remove, fill, dredge or alter a wetland resource area is subject to review and approval by the Brimfield Conservation Commission (BCC). Wetlands that are subject to protection under the Act include any area within 100 feet of a swamp, marsh, forested wetland, vernal pool, pond, or intermittent stream, also known as the "buffer zone". The BCC also has jurisdiction over the Riverfront Area, or the area within 200 feet of a stream that flows year round, and the 100-year Flood Plain. It should be noted that wetlands may not be wet all year round and low areas that flood seasonally may be considered wetlands as well.

The Brimfield Conservation Commission regulates permit activities that may alter wetlands or their buffer zones in protected areas. Regulated activities include, but are not limited to, dumping leaves, brush, grass, debris, cutting trees or shrubs, reconstructing lawns, building or constructing any type of structures or a septic system, grading, excavating, or filling, changing stormwater discharge, polluting wetlands or streams, creating an impervious surface (paving a driveway).  Activities within the protected area may require a permit, for more information on any given project please consult our Wetlands Protection Brochure available in the Conservation Commission Office.

Staff Contacts

Commission Members
Joseph Venezia

Co-Chair

Term Expires 2025

Stephen Phifer

Term Expires 2024

Carol Platenik

Term Expires 2026

Jerry Knouse

Term Expires 2025

Roger deBruyn

Co-Chair