March 29, 2000

FORUM TO EXPLORE INNOVATIVE OPTIONS FOR MANAGING GROWTH IN HOLLISTON

Newton, MA … Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) will present a public forum on "Mapping Holliston’s Future: Opportunities for Protecting Town Resources in the Face of Growth Pressures" on April 13 from 6:30 to 9 pm at Holliston High School cafeteria. Co-sponsored by the Holliston Planning Board and Holliston Open Space Committee, the meeting will focus on recommended zoning bylaw changes designed to preserve open space and protect drinking water supplies. The meeting is unrelated to the vote on the town’s sewer proposal on April 10.

"Environmental Zoning" recommendations were developed for Holliston by CRWA and Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) after assessing the impact of future development on the town’s water supplies and stream quality. Recommended in the non-profit organizations’ land use proposal are: 1) a strong open space acquisition program to protect underground water stores; 2) stormwater management to protect water quality; and 3) changes in the town’s zoning bylaws that complement the town’s Master Plan and Open Space Plan.

"Most towns treat water like trash," explained CRWA’s Executive Director Robert. L. Zimmerman, Jr. "Our analysis shows that it is important to bring environmental factors, particularly water resources, into town planning. We are recommending several steps for Holliston that will help the town balance its water budget — withdrawals v. replenishment — over the years."

Joining Zimmerman on the forum’s speaking agenda will be State Representative Barbara Gardner, Buzz Constable of the Metropolitan Area Planning Commission, CLF’s Bennett Heart and CRWA’s Kathleen Baskin. Holliston Planning Board and Open Space Committee members will lead a question and answer session.

The Charles River Watershed Association, formed in 1965, is dedicated to protecting the health, beauty and accessibility of the river and its tributaries. The environmental non-profit works with state environmental agencies and local officials to promote leading- edge solutions to watershed problems. CRWA conducts monthly water quality monitoring projects, participates in demonstration projects, and develops computer models to guide scientifically-sound watershed management.